Sufjan Stevens has dedicated his just-released album, Javelin, to his late partner, Evans Richardson IV, who passed away in April at the age of 43.
“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 on Tumblr. “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.” He continued:
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. 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.
Thank you. I love you. XOS
Richardson was a curator who worked at the Studio Museum of Harlem. He was also the Chair of the American Alliance of Museums’ Accreditation Commission beginning in 2021. In 2018, the pair attended the Academy Awards, where Stevens performed his Oscar-nominated song ‘Mystery of Love’ at the ceremony.
Last month, Stevens revealed he had been diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome and is relearning to walk. The singer-songwriter, who has always kept his personal life and sexuality away from the public eye, has been sharing updates on his progress as he battles the rare autoimmune disorder.
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