Jim Ellison

James Walter Ellison was the frontman for the band Material Issue. He tirelessly promoted his band, booked tours, and secured a major-label deal in 1990. Ellison — along with bassist Ted Ansani and drummer Mike Zelenko — would lead the renaissance of power pop in the early 1990s.

Personal life and legacy

Ellison grew up in Illinois and attended Glenbard North High School.
He died on June 20, 1996 from suicide. Lead singer Gord Downie wrote the song "Escape Is at Hand for the Travelin' Man" about his relationship with Ellison and Downie's grief after Ellison's death. The song was recorded by The Tragically Hip.