Tragedy Strikes the Texas Music Industry

The Texas music industry is mourning the loss of a musician who died this weekend after spending the day with his sons at Eagle Mountain Lake.

Jim Chaikong, 50, had been out on the lake Saturday in his sailboat with his two sons, said Chaikong’s friend and fellow musician Ryan Reynolds, also known as Uncle Ryano.

He was reported missing Saturday around 5 p.m. after his children were found “floating in the water and screaming for help,” according to the Tarrant Regional Water District. A boater nearby rescued the children and reported the incident to authorities.

Chaikong’s body was found by TRWD officers on Sunday around 3:25 p.m. near Crest Point, located on the southeast portion of the lake.

Who was Jim Chaikong?

Chaikong was originally from the Philippines but grew up in Abilene. He went by the stage name Ninja Cowboy. But when Chaikong wasn’t on stage, he was in the background pushing others to their full potential, said Cynthia Anderson.

When Anderson met Chaikong five years ago, she said she was doing bar rescues. Chaikong and another artist pushed her to instead rescue artists and help them with their careers.

That’s how Anderson joined the Texas State Songwriters Championship, of which Chaikong was a founder.

“His goal was to take his music to the top and then help others take their music to the top. And he did that before he left us,” Anderson said.

Chaikong’s Music and Legacy

The nonprofit, now run by Anderson, hosts yearly competitions for artists and musicians which help them get noticed and increase chances of radio exposure, Anderson said. Chaikong aspired to create a support system for artists to follow their dreams and get ahead in the industry, she said.

“He lifted up the people around him,” she said.

In May, Chaikong released a single called “My Favorite Song” under a new label.

“It’s just a feel-good song, and that’s what he wanted,” Anderson said. “He wanted everybody to feel good. This world is rough on all of us and he just was everybody’s sensei.”

His latest song was released in June.

A Tribute to Chaikong

Chaikong was also a professional MMA fighter, a father, mentor and caring artist, his friends said.

Ryano said the first time he met Chaikong, he realized very quickly that at only 5-foot-6, Chaikong was an eccentric man with a giant personality. On Aug. 9, Chaikong and Ryano shared a stage in New Braunfels. That was the last time they saw each other, Ryano said.

“He was beautiful, he was very wise and he was always positive,” Ryano said.

Jim Chaikong performs with friend and fellow musician Uncle Ryano in New Braunfels. Chaikong’s body was recovered from Eagle Mountain Lake on Sunday, Aug. 25, 2025.

Uncle Ryano / Uncle Ryano

Remembering Chaikong

Chaikong was one of the 25 artists scheduled to perform at a Golden Star Family Day concert held in remembrance of those who died in military service. Chaikong will now be honored at the concert on Sept. 27 at Lucy Blues in Conroe, Ryano said.

“He’s still going to be there,” Ryano said. “There’ll be a memorial, a remembrance and honoring of the Ninja Cowboy, a tribe member and a beautiful piece of Texas that we lost.”

Chaikong leaves behind his sons, a daughter, many other family members and a crew of musicians. If anyone wants to support his family, Anderson asks that they visit his artist site and purchase a song.

An event is in the works to honor Chaikong, and proceeds will go to his family, friends said.

Conclusion

The loss of Jim Chaikong is a devastating blow to the Texas music industry and his loved ones. He will be remembered for his kind heart, his passion for music, and his dedication to helping others. His legacy will live on through his music and the countless lives he touched.

FAQs

Q: What happened to Jim Chaikong?

A: Jim Chaikong’s body was found in Eagle Mountain Lake on Sunday, Aug. 25, 2025, after he went missing while sailing with his sons.

Q: What was Chaikong’s stage name?

A: Chaikong’s stage name was Ninja Cowboy.

Q: How can I support Chaikong’s family?

A: You can support Chaikong’s family by visiting his artist site and purchasing a song. An event is also being planned to honor Chaikong, with proceeds going to his family.