Musician and poet David Berman died Wednesday , his record label confirmed. Berman, founder of bands Silver Jews and Purple Mountains, was a longtime Nashville resident until he moved to Chicago last year. Pitchfork reports he was 52.

"We couldn't be more sorry to tell you this," Drag City Records said in a tweet. "A great friend and one of the most inspiring individuals we've ever known is gone. Rest easy, David."

Silver Jews disbanded in 2009. Purple Mountains released the first and only self-titled album in July. The band was scheduled to begin a tour this weekend.