Sufjan Stevens has dedicated his newly released album, Javelin, to his partner, Evans Richardson, who passed away earlier this year.
“This album is dedicated to the light of my life, my beloved partner and best friend Evans Richardson, who passed away in April,” Stevens wrote in a statement posted to his website. “He was an absolute gem of a person, full of life, love, laughter, curiosity, integrity, and joy. He was one of those rare and beautiful ones you find only once in a lifetime—precious, impeccable, and absolutely exceptional in every way.
“I know relationships can be very difficult sometimes, but it’s always worth it to put in the hard work and care for the ones you love, especially the beautiful ones, who are few and far between,” Stevens continued. “If you happen to find that kind of love, hold it close, hold it tight, savor it, tend to it, and give it everything you’ve got, especially in times of trouble. Be kind, be strong, be patient, be forgiving, be vigorous, be wise, and be yourself. Live every day as if it is your last, with fullness and grace, with reverence and love, with gratitude and joy. This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
According to his obituary, Richardson served as the chief of staff for the Studio Museum in Harlem, and in 2021 was elected chair of the American Alliance of Museums’ Accreditation Commission. He died on April 30th, 2023 at the age of 43.
In September, Stevens revealed on his website that he had been diagnosed with the autoimmune disorder Guillain-Barre Syndrome after waking up one morning unable to walk. He is currently recovering in physical therapy, but as a result of the ailment he was unable to promote the release of Javelin, which arrived today, October 6th.
Evans Richardson, photo via Sufjan Stevens
