LabyrinthWalk CoffeeHouse

Some smooth jazz being laid down this afternoon!

Chris Gage was an extraordinary presence in Austin’s music scene—a consummate multi‑instrumentalist whose talents spanned guitar (acoustic, electric, slide, baritone, lap steel), mandolin, Dobro, piano, Hammond B‑3 organ, accordion, and vocals. His storied career included stints with the Red Willow Band, alongside Roy Clark on *Hee Haw* and The Tonight Show, and as musical director and sideman for Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Jerry Jeff Walker. Equally at home behind the scenes, he was an in-demand producer and engineer, co-running MoonHouse Studio with Christine Albert and collaborating on countless recordings for Austin legends like Marcia Ball, Eliza Gilkyson, and Ray Benson.

For nearly three decades, Chris was the soulful heartbeat of Monday nights at Donn’s Depot, where his piano bench was a welcoming stage for spontaneity, guest musicians, and community connection. His versatility and warmth were unmatched—he was described in the Austin American‑Statesman as “a studio ace who defied categorization, and who possessed an emotional intensity and generosity that made every performance feel alive”. Beyond performance, his legacy lives on through Albert & Gage, the folk/Americana duo formed with his wife Christine Albert—together they released six albums, ran MoonHouse Records, and carried their heartfelt music across the world.

In recent months, the Austin music community rallied around Chris as he faced serious health challenges. Benefit concerts, a heartfelt GoFundMe campaign, and outpourings of love bore witness to the impact of the "Iron Man of South Austin," as he was affectionately known. Many recalled the warm camaraderie of Donn’s Depot, where Chris and Christine’s music forged lifelong memories—not just for the fans, but for the artists who loved him. His passing leaves a poignant void, but his music, mentorship, and generosity live on in every note, every memory, and every artist he inspired.

May these words honor his spirit—a deeply talented, community‑minded artist whose life was a testament to the power of music to connect, heal, and uplift.

Chris Gage

Rest In Peace, Chris Gage.

This weekend, Austin lost a pillar of its music scene with the passing of the mighty Chris Gage. A musician's musician, he logged countless miles on the road with Jimmie Dale Gilmore and Jerry Jeff Walker, and held down a nearly three-decade Monday residency at Donn's Depot. The Paramount sends their condolences to his wife Christine and family, and his many friends across South Austin and beyond.

Some great music going down here today! Join us until 5pm!