Country music has lost a legend as singer John Wesley Ryles passed away at the age of 74.
The cause of his death remains unconfirmed, but his nephew shared a heartfelt tribute on Facebook, writing: “He was married to my Aunt Joni, and we all loved him like blood.
“He was an amazing singer, an artist, and an even more amazing man. He had several hits as a solo artist and was an A-team harmony singer in Nashville for decades.”
His nephew continued: “He was a kind, talented, and loving man, and he will be missed by all of us.”
Heart of Texas Records reported that the musician passed away in the early hours of November 2.
Born in Bastrop, Louisiana, Ryles kick-started his professional singing career during his childhood, performing gospel music on radio programs in the late 1950s and early 1960s with the Ryles Family Singers.
In 1967, he signed with Columbia Records and released his debut single, “Kay,” when he was just 17. Throughout his illustrious career, Ryles scored one top 10 hit with his 1977 track, Once in a Lifetime Thing.
Ryles is also celebrated for his songs, I’ve Just Been Wasting My Time, Fool, Shine on Me (The Sun Still Shines When It Rains), Liberated Woman, and Louisiana Rain. However, Ryles released his last single, Nobody Knows, in 1988.
Tributes have been pouring in from fans and fellow musicians alike, including country music star Mark Wills who honored Ryles with a touching post on Instagram.
Alongside a photo of the late singer, Mark penned: “We lost a GIANT in the music industry today. John Wesley Ryles sang more harmonies on records, that to the listener, sounded like the artist themselves!”.
“He could blend with ANYBODY! John sang on my first four records and always had a flawless blend with the lead vocal. It was perfect.”
The singer concluded: “My condolences to Joni and his entire family! Please lift them up in prayer.”
Another country music star, John White, wrote a lengthy tribute and added: “Man, what a loss. John Wesley Ryles. An absolute Giant in our industry. An incredible songwriter and an outstanding singer.
“When I moved to town and started singing demos for publishers and writers John Wesley and I would pass each other in the hallways of studios all over Nashville. I was always in awe. His skills were unmatched.
“What an inspiration. Man what a legacy. John will be missed. Prayers for the Ryles family,” he added.
Other fans also paid tributes, as one shared: “So sad. I still listen to his songs Kay and Fool. He was never given the recognition he deserved in my opinion. His harmonies are heard by many never knowing what a Star he’s always been.”
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‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.the-express.com ’
