The music community in New Hampshire and beyond is mourning the tragic death of Brooks Young, a renowned blues rock musician from Tilton, New Hampshire, known for his soulful performances and dedication to his craft. Brooks, age 43, was tragically killed in a car accident on Route 11 in Alton, NH, on Friday, leaving behind his family, friends, fans, and three young children who deeply adored him. News of his passing has brought a wave of sorrow and condolences from the music world and the local community, where Brooks was celebrated not only for his musical achievements but for his kindness, devotion to family, and passion for life.
The accident that claimed Brooks’s life occurred on the morning of November 8, 2024. According to reports, Brooks was traveling on Route 11 near Alton when his vehicle collided with another, resulting in a fatal accident. Authorities are currently investigating the specifics of the crash. For now, however, the community remains focused on honoring the memory of a man whose life’s work touched countless hearts and whose spirit continues to inspire.
A Life Lived in Music: Brooks Young’s Remarkable Journey
Brooks Young’s life was defined by music from an early age. Growing up in Tilton, NH, he developed a love for the guitar with the guidance of his grandfather, a musician who passed on his passion for blues and rock. Brooks took to the instrument with an intensity that would later define his career, dedicating hours to perfecting his craft and exploring new ways to convey emotion through music. He eventually formed the Brooks Young Band, a blues rock ensemble that quickly gained a following in New England and beyond.
The Brooks Young Band became known for its soulful renditions of classic blues standards, as well as Brooks’s own original compositions that drew from a deep well of personal experience and emotion. The group initially began as a traditional blues band but evolved over time, incorporating elements of rock, soul, and even pop to create a unique sound that defied genre boundaries. As bandmate Jeffrey LeRoy explained, “We started as a blues band, but Brooks’s creative vision took us in new directions. His music evolved with him, and he was never afraid to experiment with new sounds or styles.”
Brooks’s musical talent and heartfelt performances won him a loyal fan base and earned him the opportunity to share the stage with some of music’s greatest legends, including blues icon B.B. King, rock bands like REO Speedwagon, and pop-rock superstar Bryan Adams. Each performance was a testament to Brooks’s commitment to his craft and his unshakable love for music. He was also proud to work alongside New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu in 2022, collaborating on a music video to launch the governor’s reelection campaign, showcasing both his musical versatility and his connection to his home state.
Tributes Pour in from Family, Friends, and Fans
In a public statement, Brooks’s wife, Andrea Jalbert Young, expressed the profound grief that has gripped their family in the wake of this tragic loss. “On Friday morning, we received the devastating news that Brooks was tragically killed in a car accident. Our family is still trying to process this unimaginable loss, which has left us heartbroken,” she shared. Andrea thanked the community for the outpouring of love and support, adding, “We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of love and support from everyone who has reached out to Carter and me during this time. Thank you for holding us in your thoughts as we navigate this difficult journey.”
For Andrea, their children, and the extended family, Brooks’s loss is immeasurable. Friends describe Brooks as a devoted family man who balanced his life as a musician with his commitment to being a father and husband. Many of his close friends and colleagues remember him as a man of warmth, humor, and generosity, whose presence brought joy to all who knew him.
His bandmate and close friend Jeffrey LeRoy spoke on behalf of the Brooks Young Band, recalling the shock and sadness that the band has felt since hearing the news. “This is startling. I believe many of us are still trying to process this news,” LeRoy shared. “Brooks wasn’t just a bandmate; he was a brother. His passion for music and his love for his family was apparent in everything he did. His memory will always be a part of us, and his music will continue to inspire.”
A Lasting Legacy in the New Hampshire Music Scene
Brooks Young’s contributions to New Hampshire’s music scene were profound and far-reaching. Over his years as a performer, he built a community around his music—a following of fans who were drawn to his authentic sound and heartfelt lyrics. Brooks was known for his high-energy performances, his skill on the guitar, and his powerful, emotive voice that captured the spirit of classic blues and rock.
The Brooks Young Band was widely regarded as one of New England’s leading blues rock groups, drawing audiences from all corners of the region. Brooks’s music often addressed universal themes of love, loss, and resilience, resonating with audiences of all backgrounds. Fans have expressed their gratitude for the music he shared with them, noting that his songs provided comfort, joy, and inspiration.
In addition to his musical contributions, Brooks was known for his involvement in the local community. He often performed at charity events, fundraisers, and community gatherings, using his platform to give back. Those who knew him personally recall his generosity and his willingness to support causes close to his heart. For the New Hampshire music community, his loss is particularly profound, as he was a beloved figure whose music and spirit united people across the state.
Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Plans
Brooks’s family has announced that his wake will be held on November 18, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Smart Memorial Funeral Home in Tilton, NH. Friends, family, and fans are invited to pay their respects and celebrate the life of a man who brought so much light and music to the world. The funeral will follow, providing an opportunity for the community to come together in honor of Brooks’s legacy.
As the community mourns his passing, plans are underway to establish a memorial fund in Brooks’s name, which will support aspiring musicians and local music programs in New Hampshire. The fund is intended to honor Brooks’s legacy by fostering a love for music in young artists and supporting the local music scene that meant so much to him. Additional details about the fund are expected to be released in the coming weeks, as the family works to finalize arrangements.
Remembering Brooks Young’s Impact on Those Who Loved Him
Brooks’s loss has left an indelible void in the lives of his family and friends, but his memory continues to inspire those who were touched by his music and his presence. Tributes from fans across social media have poured in, with many sharing stories of how Brooks’s songs provided them with comfort and joy during difficult times. His music, they say, was a gift that continues to resonate and bring solace.
In a message to fans, Andrea shared her gratitude for the support that has been shown to their family. “Brooks loved his fans and the people who supported his music. He would want everyone to know that they were a vital part of his journey,” she said. “In his honor, we hope to continue sharing his music and his legacy with the world.”
A Legacy of Music, Love, and Dedication
Brooks Young’s life was a testament to the power of music and the enduring impact of love and dedication. As a musician, he shared his soul with the world, leaving behind a collection of songs that reflect the depth of his experiences and emotions. As a husband and father, he created a loving home filled with joy and laughter, a legacy that will live on in the lives of his children and family.
While the pain of his absence is deeply felt, Brooks’s music and memory remain alive in the hearts of those who loved him. His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of passion, creativity, and community. For New Hampshire, the music world, and all who knew him, Brooks Young will be remembered not only as a talented musician but as a man whose spirit and generosity left a lasting impact.
As the community gathers to say goodbye, there is a shared understanding that Brooks’s music will continue to inspire and uplift, a fitting tribute to a life well-lived. The tragedy of his loss has united friends, family, and fans in a collective celebration of his legacy, ensuring that Brooks Young’s voice, both as a musician and a beloved community member, will echo on for generations to come.
