Austin police said Tuesday that the man found dead this week on South Congress Avenue was a popular musician, who was beaten to death.

Police identified the murder victim as 38-year-old Chadd Thomas, who performed in a local Rockabilly band.

Thomas' body was discovered Monday morning in the grass by the sidewalk on South Congress near Oltorf.

He was well known musician who played around town. He was murdered not far from where he lived.

Dylan Cavaliere played base in their band, Chadd Thomas and the Crazy Kings.

"He is the best front man I ever played with," said Cavaliere.

They had been together for a decade and were like family. News of his murder hit him hard.

"I knew for certain I had lost a brother," said Cavaliere.

The last time Cavaliere saw Thomas was Saturday night. The two played a gig at a private party at Aviary on South Lamar. When it was over, Cavaliere left while Thomas stayed behind.

"I want to say we were done a little bit after 11," said Cavaliere. "I was out of there about 11:20 and Chadd was still there. I wished I would have stayed now, you know?"

The owner of Aviary says she saw Thomas Sunday afternoon.

"He came by Sunday afternoon to pick up his equipment from the night before," said Shanna Eldridge
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Chris Harrison exchanged texts with Thomas on Sunday. He was shocked to learn about his friend's death.

Thomas was found dead Monday, and was identified by police on Tuesday. A medical examiner ruled the cause of his death blunt force trauma.

Twitter was ablaze with tributes to the musician.

Friends say Thomas was a born performer, a man who loved his eight-year-old daughter, and had a zest for life. They say Thomas and his musical talents will be deeply missed.

"There was no one like Chadd," said Harrison. "I can't imagine there will be anyone else like Chadd.

Cavaliere says he is planning a tribute to Thomas. He also wants to set up a trust fund for his daughter.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 472-TIPS.