{"id":1784484,"date":"2026-06-13T17:37:10","date_gmt":"2026-06-13T17:37:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/pt\/?p=1784484"},"modified":"2026-06-13T17:37:10","modified_gmt":"2026-06-13T17:37:10","slug":"nearly-20-country-music-stars-have-died-in-2026-heres-the-heartbreaking-list","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/celebrity.land\/pt\/nearly-20-country-music-stars-have-died-in-2026-heres-the-heartbreaking-list\/","title":{"rendered":"Nearly 20 country music stars have died in 2026 \u2014 here\u2019s the heartbreaking list"},"content":{"rendered":"


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It has been a heartbreaking year for country music fans with nearly 20 stars dying already.<\/p>\n

Sadly, the death of Country Music Radio Hall of Famer and Grand Ole Opry announcer Bill Cody on Tuesday added to the list.<\/p>\n

The following is the look at those who have died so far in 2026:<\/p>\n

Don Adams<\/h2>\n

Country music has lost another beloved performer.<\/p>\n

Don Adams, a singer, songwriter and longtime band member for Johnny Paycheck and George Jones, died on Feb. 1, according to Saving Country Music. <\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

He was 85.<\/p>\n

The site said that Adams had been battling cancer \u201coff and on\u201d for a couple of years.<\/p>\n

Parade Magazine wrote that while Adams was never a \u201cmarquee headliner, his voice, musicianship and presence placed him squarely inside the outlaw country ecosystem of the 1960s and 1970s.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adams was born in Greenfield, Ohio, and he came from a family full of musicians.<\/p>\n

His father, Frank Adams, was a radio and recording star all the way back in the 1930s, and Don and his brothers, Gary and Arnie, made up The Adams Brothers. As a group, they backed up artists such as Merle Haggard, Marty Robbins and Tammy Wynette as well as Paycheck.<\/p>\n

However, it was their gig as The Jones Boys, backing up the legendary George Jones, that they were most well known for. They were so popular that Jones\u2019 label even released an album entitled \u201cThe Jones Boys\u201d which featured them without Jones.<\/p>\n

The brothers also gained a reputation for a hard-partying lifestyle, and that helped them gain access to a more modern crowd when Mike Judge of \u201cBeavis and Butthead\u201d fame used them in multiple episodes of his Cinemax series \u201cTales From The Tour Bus.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dylan Carter<\/h2>\n

The country music world was left heartbroken after the news of singer Dylan Carter\u2019s death on April 25.<\/p>\n

He was 24.<\/p>\n

Law enforcement officials in South Carolina told TMZ that Carter was killed after a car crash in Colleton County, South Carolina on Saturday night. The outlet reported that officials said that Carter was driving on U.S. Route 21 around 11 p.m. when his 2026 Tesla sedan veered off the road, hit a pole, and rolled.<\/p>\n

The Colleton County coroner told TMZ that Carter died of blunt-force injuries. <\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

He was wearing his seatbelt.<\/p>\n

\u201cWith heavy hearts we share the passing of Dylan Carter, co-founder of The Local Voice, talented musician and someone who meant so much to our community,\u201d The Local Voice, which provides care to women fighting breast cancer, wrote on Facebook on Sunday. \u201cDylan was the heart of what we do. He believed every voice matters and lived that every day. Through his music, his kindness, and his smile, he brought people together and made everyone feel seen.\u201d<\/p>\n

Carter was scheduled to perform Monday night in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, at the town\u2019s \u201cMusic on Main\u201d event.<\/p>\n

Thomas Hamilton Jr., the mayor of Monck\u2019s Corner, shared a post about Carter\u2019s death.<\/p>\n

\u201cOur family is heartbroken to hear about the passing of Dylan Carter in a car accident,\u201d he wrote. \u201cAs a gifted singer, he frequently entertained our community with his performances at Town events. His kindness and charm earned him immense respect, and his absence will be deeply felt. TO the loved ones and acquaintances of Dylan, we offer our sincerest condolences during this difficult period. The Town of Moncks Corner, its Council, and entire staff extend their deepest sympathies. He was much more to our family than an entertainer he was our friend and we are deeply saddened.\u201d<\/p>\n

Many others took to social media to remember Carter.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s with a heavy heart to share that my very close friend and The Voice alum Dylan Carter Music has passed away this morning,\u201d the musician Stee wrote on Facebook. \u201cWe both became close on Season 24 as we both were representing South Carolina. I\u2019m sending love to his family and fans. He was a little brother to me and a beautiful person. Love you Dylan.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m so sad hearing the news of Dylan Carter Music passing,\u201d Ruby Leigh wrote on Facebook. \u201cI met him on The Voice Season 24. He was one of the real ones! He came to my Grand Ole Opry debut and said, \u2018I wanted to be here for you when you stepped on the stage that you have dreamed about for so long. Congratulations not many people can say that they\u2019ve played the Opry.\u2019 I want to send my Love, Hugs and Prayers to all his Family, Fans and Friends.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis really stinks!\u201d singer Jason Lee Cook wrote. \u201cHard to believe this young talent is gone so soon. Praying for his family.\u201d<\/p>\n

Carter was a native of St. George, South Carolina, a small town in the Lowcountry, about an hour from Charleston. He rose to fame as a contestant on Season 24 of NBC\u2019s \u201cThe Voice.\u201d He was coached by country music legend Reba McEntire during his time on the show.<\/p>\n

Bill Cody<\/h2>\n

Dierks Bentley was among the country music stars who took to social media to remember legendary announcer Bill Cody following his death on June 9.<\/p>\n

Cody, a Country Music Radio Hall of Famer and Grand Ole Opry announcer, died after battling kidney failure and heart failure in a hospital for more than three weeks.<\/p>\n

\u201cCountry Music has lost one of its pillars,\u201d Bentley wrote on Instagram. \u201cBill was just as important to the fabric of our music and city as any artist, songwriter or musician. No one loved Country Music, its history and its characters more than Bill Cody. Prayers to his family and Charlie and Kelly and everyone that knew and loved him at WSM and the Opry. \u201c<\/p>\n

The Opry also wrote, \u201cWe are going to miss him so very much.\u201d<\/p>\n

WSM Radio first shared the news of Cody\u2019s death late Tuesday night.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our dear friend and beloved WSM voice, Bill Cody,\u201d the statement on Instagram read.<\/b><\/a> \u201cA singular presence on WSM-AM Nashville for more than three decades, Bill welcomed listeners each morning on Coffee, Country & Cody with a broad smile, a conversational ease, and an unerring ability to make both artists and audiences feel at home. He joined WSM in 1994 and had Charlie Daniels as his first in-studio guest. He built more than a morning show; he created a gathering place rooted in his deep love for country music and the people behind it.<\/p>\n

\u201cBill\u2019s voice also became synonymous with the Grand Ole Opry, where he frequently served as host, including Opry Country Classics,\u201d the statement continued. \u201cHis work extended across television and syndicated radio, bringing country music to audiences far beyond Nashville. Inspired early on by time spent at a small Kentucky radio station with his father, Bill\u2019s passion for broadcasting became a lifelong calling that ultimately led him to the city he once dreamed about as young boy. His contributions to broadcasting were recognized with his induction into the Country Radio Hall of Fame, a star on the Music City Walk of Fame, and his forthcoming, posthumous induction into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame.\u201d<\/p>\n

Cody\u2019s death came just more than a week after his daughter first revealed his health battle.<\/p>\n

\u201cFriends. Prayer warrior. I believe in the power of prayer and my daddy needs prayers,\u201d his daughter, Hannah, said in a statement. \u201cA little over 3 weeks ago he was admitted to the ICU in heart failure and kidney failure. After weeks of being on a roller coaster of emotions, tests, dialysis, medications, steps forward and steps backwards, it was determined earlier this week that his only option for survival would be a double transplant, heart and kidney.<\/p>\n

\u201cMany prayers have been prayed this week that he would pass all necessary tests to qualify for the transplant list,\u201d the statement continued. \u201cAnd those prayers were answered.\u201d<\/p>\n

Hannah then explained what Cody was dealing with.<\/p>\n

\u201cLast night, his strength and ability to pump blood took a downward spiral and we got a call from his doctor early this morning that they were having to intubate him to put him on ECMO (a machine that does the hearts job for him,\u201d she wrote. \u201cThis is what we need prayers for. 1.) Pray that he will not experience any of the risks that come along with ECMO \u2014 stroke, blood clots, infection. 2.) Pray that the next 48 hours on ECMO gives his body time to rest and gain strength. This is the biggest hurdle for transplant qualification right now. He has to gain strength. 3.) Pray that the transplant team that meets on Tuesdays will find him a candidate for transplant and get him put on the list. We need a miracle and we know God is able. Please if you\u2019re able, stop and pray for these things. Our family can\u2019t thank you enough. We love you all.\u201d<\/p>\n

WSM closed out its statement Tuesday night by remembering Cody for his \u201ckindness, humility, and genuine gift of connection.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBill Cody was one of those rare people who didn\u2019t just work in Country Music \u2014 he lived it, protected it, and loved it with every fiber of his being,\u201d Tyler Herndon wrote on Instagram. \u201cFor decades, Bill was a trusted voice, a champion of artists, a keeper of our stories, and a bridge between generations of country music fans. Whether you were a superstar or a struggling songwriter with a dream, Bill made you feel like you mattered. I was fortunate to call him a friend. His kindness was genuine, his passion was contagious, and his belief in this music never wavered. He understood that country music is more than songs and charts \u2014 it\u2019s people, community, and heart.<\/p>\n

\u201cToday, Nashville feels a little quieter,\u201d he continued. \u201cThe Opry, WSM, and all of us who loved him are feeling this loss deeply. Thank you, Bill, for every conversation, every introduction, every encouragement, and for being such a faithful steward of the music we all love. Your voice may be silent, but your legacy will echo through country music for generations to come.\u201d<\/p>\n

David Allan Coe<\/h2>\n

David Allan Coe, a controversial figure and country music legend, died on April 29.<\/p>\n

He was 86.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of David Allan Coe,\u201d a post on the singer\u2019s Facebook page late Wednesday night read.<\/b><\/a> \u201cDavid passed away today, Wednesday, April 29, at approximately 5:00 PM ET while in the hospital.<\/p>\n

\u201cAt this time, no official cause of death has been released,\u201d the statement continued. \u201cWe ask that everyone please respect the family\u2019s privacy as they grieve this tremendous loss.\u201d<\/p>\n

Coe had an accomplished musical career, but his catalog included a pair of explicit albums \u2014 1978\u2019s \u201cNothing Scared,\u201d and 1982\u2019s \u201cUnderground Album.\u201d They featured songs with lyrics that included racial and homophobic slurs.<\/p>\n

Coe denied being a racist despite using the N-word in songs and claimed that the songs were meant to be humorous and did not reflect his own views.<\/p>\n

Coe, a native of Akron, Ohio, was known as an \u201coutlaw country\u201d artist, and his career got off to an interesting start.<\/p>\n

Whiskeyriff.com reported <\/b><\/a>that Coe spent most of his early years \u201cin reform school or behind bars.\u201d When he was released, the outlet reported, he moved to Nashville, where he slept in a hearse outside the legendary Ryman Auditorium. On the weekends, he would climb atop the car and perform for audiences heading in to see shows there.<\/p>\n

That helped him land a record deal after a worker from Plantation Records spotted him, and he released his first albums, 1970\u2019s \u201cPenitentiary Blues,\u201d and 1973\u2019s \u201cRequiem for a Harlequin,\u201d were released through them.<\/p>\n

His big break came in 1973 when Tanya Tucker took his song, \u201cWould You Lay With Me (In a Field of Stone)\u201d and turned it into a No. 1 hit.<\/p>\n

Coe released a whopping 42 studio albums and 50 singles during his career.<\/p>\n

His top hit was \u201cYou Never Even Called Me by My Name,\u201d which made it to No. 8 on the charts. He recorded the original version of \u201cTennessee Whiskey,\u201d and was known for songs such as \u201cLonghaired Redneck,\u201d and \u201cThe Ride.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDavid Allan Coe was more than a singer, songwriter, and outlaw country legend, he was a voice for generations of fans who found truth, grit, pain, and life in his music,\u201d the statement continued. \u201cHis songs, stories, and spirit will live on forever. Thank you for everyone who has loved, supported, and stood by David through the years.<\/p>\n

Blake Emmons<\/h2>\n

Blake Emmons, a country music icon and television personality, died on March 8, according to multiple reports. <\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

He was 81 years old.<\/p>\n

Emmons, whose real name was Bruce Mackenzie, was a native of Toronto, and he made his name in Canada beginning in the 1970s.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s difficult to find the right words this morning,\u201d John Tescione wrote on Facebook. <\/b><\/a>\u201cI was deeply saddened to learn our friend Blake Emmons has passed. Blake was one of those rare people whose presence lifted others up. Many of us in the veteran community knew him as a mentor, a supporter, and a steady voice of encouragement. He had a way of reaching out at exactly the right moment, reminding you that you weren\u2019t alone and that someone had your back.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tescione said he met Emmons through the Wounded Warriors Weekend community.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was struck by his generosity of spirit and his genuine care for the people around him,\u201d he wrote. \u201cThe number of veterans and first responders he helped over the years is impossible to count, but the impact he made will live on in every one of us.<\/p>\n

\u201cMen like Blake leave a mark that doesn\u2019t fade,\u201d he added. \u201cHis kindness, humor, and commitment to helping others are part of the legacy he leaves behind.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cToday we lost an incredible man, Blake Emmons,\u201d Jessyca Marcoux wrote on Facebook.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe was an amazing storyteller, a great singer, and someone who could always make you laugh when you needed it most,\u201d she added. \u201cHis kindness and the impact he had on so many lives will never be forgotten.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou made this world a better place, Blake.\u201d<\/p>\n

There were many more tributes like that on social media.<\/p>\n

Emmons hosted the CTV series \u201cFunny Farm,\u201d which was billed as Canda\u2019s answer to \u201cHee Haw\u201d in 1974. He also hosted \u201cThe Country Place\u201d in the 1970s, and he hosted the game show \u201cChain Reaction\u201d in 1985.<\/p>\n

Emmons was known for his charitable contributions, too. He hosted the ACT Telethon for Camp HE-HO-HA for disabled children in the 1970s and late in the decade he helped develop the Telemiracle telethon.<\/p>\n

Pete Finney<\/h2>\n

The country music world has lost another legendary performer as steel guitar player Pete Finney died on Feb. 7.<\/p>\n

The Country Music Hall of Fame announced Finney\u2019s death on Facebook.<\/p>\n

\u201cSteel guitarist Pete Finney, who died Saturday at age seventy, was a widely admired Nashville musician,\u201d the statement read.<\/b><\/a>\u201cHe exemplified how top instrumentalists can adapt to a remarkable range of styles and settings, whether in a recording studio, a concert stage, or the corner of a small nightclub.<\/p>\n

\u201cOn America\u2019s biggest stages, Finney backed The Chicks, Vince Gill, the Judds, Reba McEntire, and Patty Loveless, among others,\u201d the statement continued. \u201cHe toured with Loveless for more than twenty years. He was touring with McEntire when eight members of her band and two crew members lost their lives in a plane crash in 1991; Finney survived because he flew on a second plane, with another musician and crew members.\u201d<\/p>\n

While Finney was remembered for his brilliance in country music, the Hall of Fame noted that his talent was not limited to the genre.<\/p>\n

Michael Nesmith, the late Monkees star, employed Finney\u2019s talents when he embarked on what Parade Magazine called a \u201ccountry-flavored solo project.\u201d That led to Finney going along for the Monkees\u2019 final tour in 2017.<\/p>\n

He also teamed with the Monkees\u2019 Micky Dolenz in 2021 on a tribute album to Nesmith titled \u201cDolenz Sings Nesmith.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Hall of Fame also noted that Finney worked with a diverse array of artists including Beck, Jon Byrd, Shemekia Copeland, Justin Townes Earle, Jon Langford, Jim Lauderdale, Allison Moorer, Ron Sexsmith and Candi Staton. Finney also frequently performed in pickup bands in Nashville clubs \u201cwhere he might be seen with top-flight players such as Mac Gayden, Jen Gunderman, Jimmy Lester, Chris Scruggs and Kenny Vaughan.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFinney also gained a reputation for his extensive knowledge of American music history, fueled by his own deep research,\u201d the Hall of Fame\u2019s statement added. \u201cHe co-curated the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum\u2019s 2015-2018 exhibition \u2018Dylan, Cash, and the Nashville Cats: A New Music City.\u2019 The idea for the exhibit came from Finney\u2019s research on the many non-country artists from North America and England who came to Nashville in the 1960s and 1970s to record with the city\u2019s talented and fast-working studio musicians.\u201d<\/p>\n

Followers of the Hall of Fame were quick to share their appreciation for Finney.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh man so sorry to hear this news,\u201d James Intveld replied. \u201cWhat a great person and incredible player. I feel lucky we got to play many gigs together over the years. RIP Pete. It was a pleasure making music with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe was one of a kind,\u201d Dave Pomeroy replied. \u201cHeaven is a cooler, smarter place today.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jon Dee Graham<\/h2>\n

Jon Dee Graham, a beloved country singer-songwriter from Texas, died on March 27.<\/p>\n

He was 67.<\/p>\n

His family announced the news Friday in a post to his official Facebook account.<\/p>\n

\u201cI truly have no words,\u201d it read.<\/b> <\/a>\u201cMy father, Jon Dee Graham, passed away this morning. He was loved by so many people and touched so many people with his music, his kindness, and his endless sense of humor. His music is a gift to the world that will live on forever. This morning he died after we waited outside for EMS to revive him, the cardinals, that he loved so much, suddenly came in droves and were chirping. Some say that means the angels are here. And a tree that we were sure was dead spurred 3 sprouts.<\/p>\n

\u201cJon Dee said he had been talking to the tree since being released from the hospital a few days ago,\u201d the post continued. \u201cWe are still in shock and beyond devastated. We can not breathe. More information to come about a tribute to his life.\u201d<\/p>\n

The post asked for space and \u201cno drop bys.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOur shock and grief is heavy,\u201d the post added.<\/p>\n

\u201cOur shock and grief have left us in a place where we can\u2019t take phone calls. Thank you for loving him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Graham was a legend in Texas, and he was inducted into the Austin Music Hall of Fame three times.<\/p>\n

He was inducted in 2000 as a solo artist, in 2008 with The Skunks and in 2009 with the True Believers.<\/p>\n

Graham loved music so much that he reportedly dropped out of law school at the University of Texas to join The Skunks in 1979.<\/p>\n

Jerry Leach<\/h2>\n

Jerry Leach, the bassist for the popular country and rock group Not Leaving Sober, died on March 10.<\/p>\n

He was 32.<\/p>\n

According to multiple reports<\/b><\/a>, Leach was found pinned underneath a vehicle outside of a home in New Jersey on March 10.<\/p>\n

The band announced his death in a statement on its Instagram.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis devastating news comes as a shock to all of us,\u201d the statement read.<\/b> <\/a>\u201cJerry was far more than a bass player to us \u2014 he became a brother who we got to know very closely.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jefferson Township police responded to a call at 5:04 p.m. and found Leach pinned underneath the rear tire of a vehicle. Police pushed the vehicle off of Leach, but it was too late.<\/p>\n

He was pronounced dead at the scene.<\/p>\n

\u201cJerry started as a friend of the band who answered the call when he heard we were looking for a bassist and quickly learned 60-some-odd songs in the matter of a few weeks, and really started his time with us with two long road trips out of state to Maryland and then New Hampshire,\u201d the statement read. \u201cAt the time, these gigs were a hard sell. We hadn\u2019t really made much of a name for ourselves yet and joining a new band going away for multiple weekends probably wasn\u2019t the most appealing. Multiple times during those weekends, Jerry just kept repeating \u201cI just want to help you guys,\u201d but that was just the kind of person he was.<\/p>\n

\u201cFast forward 4 years and probably 300 shows later, this band would never have reached the heights it has without Jerry and his contributions,\u201d the statement continued. \u201cHe loved being a part of the writing process and his signature style is easily recognizable on the songs he wrote and recorded with us.\u201d<\/p>\n

The band wrapped up the lengthy post by talking about what lies ahead.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe reality is, after a tragedy like this, the next few months are going to be extremely tough for all of us \u2014 the band and the collective that has grown around us, those who have always come out to support us and people who have just joined the family,\u201d the statement read. \u201cBut we realize that we owe it to Jerry to keep going. Jerry was very clear that he just wanted to see the band succeed and for us, the only way to honor him is to keep that promise. We will never forget our friend. He will be a part of every show, every practice, every cheers, every celebration.<\/p>\n

Augie Meyers<\/h2>\n

Iconic country and rock musician Augie Meyers died on March 7<\/p>\n

Meyers, known for his days as a founding member of the Sir Douglas Quintet and the Texas Tornadoes, He was 85.<\/p>\n

\u201cAugie Meyers, a true Texas Legend passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, March 7th<\/sup> at 85 with his wife Sara at his side,\u201d a post on his Facebook page read. \u201cA Memorial Service for the public will be announced soon. The family thanks all of Augie\u2019s friends and fans for their prayers during this time.\u201d<\/p>\n

Prayers and love came flooding in.<\/p>\n

\u201cDamn, this one hurts worse than a punch in the gut!\u201d Will Owen Gage wrote on X. \u201cWorse than an anvil to the foot, or a wrecking ball to the skull. Dearest Augie, finally free from the suffering in this mortal world, but taking a great deal of light and inspiration with him in the exit. I cannot tell you how honored, thankful and humbled I am to have called Hermano Augie Meyers a friend and bandmate! The last 5 years finally getting to back him up, travel with him, record his \u2018final\u2019 album, and just be around laughing and listening to his incredible stories was a tremendous experience, filled with unforgettable memories that will live in my heart till my own day of passing. He had a GIGANTIC impact on my life, and I see the impact he\u2019s had on so many people! It\u2019s truly hard to imagine how many people he befriended or that know of him. His legend is quite possibly the deepest of any well-known musician out there. From Hendrix to Little Richard, to the Beatles, hell even Elvis and Ozzy! It\u2019s impressive and almost impossible to comprehend. All that while maintaining his true character, kind and humble, grateful and so willing to share his knowledge endlessly. I\u2019ll never know another human being like him, and I\u2019ll forever be indebted in him for his encouragement and belief in me \u2026 Vaya Con Dios, Sir August! Goodspeed my dear brother. Thank you, Thank you, Eternally Grateful! Love you with every piece of my broken heart. God bless Clay Meyers, Sara Meyers, Jack Barber, Ernie Durawa, Josh Baca and the countless others whose lives were enriched by his beautiful soul.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe great Augie Meyers has moved on,\u201d Michael Webb wrote. \u201cHe was an immeasurable influence on me. This is a great loss to American music! Thanks for everything Augie!<\/p>\n

There were plenty more tributes like that and you can see them here. <\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

Meyers, a native of San Antonio, Texas, released a whopping 23 solo albums across his career. The first of those came in 1971 with \u201cThe Western Head Music Co.\u201d and the last came in 2013 with \u201cLoves Lost and Found (El Sendero).\u201d<\/p>\n

He founded the Sir Douglas Quintet along with Doug Sahm. Taste of Country noted<\/b><\/a> that while Meyers played multiple instruments, he was best known for playing his Vox Continental organ and that sound became a signature of songs such as \u201cShe\u2019s About a Move\u201d and \u201cNuevo Laredo.\u201d Per Taste of Country, the Sir Douglas Quintet was known for helping to pioneer \u201ca style that bridged country, rock and Tejano\/Tex-Mex\u201d sound.<\/p>\n

Wayne Moss<\/h2>\n

Wayne Moss, a guitar player on some of country music\u2019s biggest hits, died on April 20.<\/p>\n

He was 88.<\/p>\n

\u201cWayne Moss was a guitarist of dexterous skill and sophisticated taste,\u201d Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum CEO Kyle Young wrote on Facebook. <\/b><\/a>\u201cListen carefully to Bob Dylan\u2019s \u2018I Want You\u2019 or Roy Orbison\u2019s \u2018Oh, Pretty Woman\u2019 or Waylon Jenning\u2019s \u2018Only Daddy That\u2019ll Walk the Line.\u2019 You\u2019ll hear the innovative electric lead parts that drew attention to Nashville\u2019s world-class musicianship.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs a studio owner, his doors were equally wide open to pop, rock, and country music,\u201d Young added. \u201cWayne was a musical torchbearer and a creative pathfinder who left his own resounding stamp on music history.\u201d<\/p>\n

Moss was a session musician who was a member of \u201cNashville\u2019s A-team.\u201d Parade Magazine noted that he was also known for his work with Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Charley Pride and Joan Baez.<\/p>\n

In fact, it was Parton\u2019s hit, \u201cJolene,\u201d that Moss played on.<\/p>\n

The first No. 1 hit he appeared on was Tommy Roe\u2019s \u201cSheila\u201d in 1962.<\/p>\n

Moss also founded two bands \u2014 Area Code 615 and Barefoot Jerry \u2014 and the studio Cinderella Sound. People reported that such acts as the Steve Miller Band, Linda Ronstadt and Grand Funk Railroad recorded there.<\/p>\n

Moss was a native of Charleston, West Virginia.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy dear friend, the great guitarist Wayne Moss, has died,\u201d Roy Orbison Jr. wrote on Facebook. \u201cA member of \u2018Nashville\u2019s A-team\u2019 of musicians. Wayne was my Dad\u2019s good friend and played on all the Roy Orbison Monument hits. \u2018Only The Lonely\u2019 \u2018Crying\u2019 \u2018Pretty Woman.\u2019 He played on thousands of country music hits. That\u2019s his guitar on \u2018Jolene\u2019 by Dolly Parton. Etc. etc. Wayne Moss played on Asa Orbison\u2019s first album \u2018Blue Bayou\u2019 and let us use his \u2018Cinderella Sound.\u2019 Thank you. We love you Wayne.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jim McBride<\/h2>\n

Jim McBride might not be a name that every country music fans knows, but there is a good chance they know his songs.<\/p>\n

McBride, a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, died on Jan. 6.<\/p>\n

He was 78.<\/p>\n

McBride was best known for a pair of hits \u2014 \u201cChattahoochee\u201d and \u201cChasing that Neon Rainbow\u201d \u2014 that he wrote for country music icon Alan Jackson.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis one is very hard to take,\u201d singer\/songwriter Jerry Salley wrote on Facebook.<\/p>\n

\u201cJim McBride wasn\u2019t just a close friend, he was a true, lifelong Brother to me,\u201d he added. \u201cMy best friend. We talked or texted every few days right up until the end.\u201d<\/p>\n

Salley wrote that he was \u201cin shock\u201d and \u201cdevastatingly sad.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJimmy Ray McBride \u2014 I know you were my biggest champion and had so much to do with my nomination for the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame,\u201d he added. \u201cThat\u2019s the kind of friend you are. You were a great songwriter. You were a great man. And you were an even greater friend.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Facebook calledcalled him \u201can amazing tunesmith and loved by the songwriter community.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJim was a beloved Alabamian, songwriter, friend, mentor and so much more,\u201d the Alabama Music Hall of Fame wrote on Facebook.<\/p>\n

\u201cHis honors included a CMA Song of the Year Award, numerous accolades from ASCAP, BMI, NSAI, NARAS, CMA, AMA, ACM, Billboard Magazine, his induction into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, and his induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame,\u201d the statement added. \u201cWe will greatly miss Mr. McBride \u2014 may his legacy live on forever.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA songwriters songwriter,\u201d Reggie Starrett wrote on Facebook. \u201cI considered Jim a friend and a huge inspiration. An unbelievable loss for country music. Jim was one of a kind.\u201d<\/p>\n

McBride, a native of Huntsville, Alabama, also wrote songs for Reba McEntire, Willie Nelson, the Oak Ridge Boys, Alabama, Johnny Cash, Diamond Rio, Waylon Jennings, George Jones, Toby Keith, Kris Kristofferson, Jerry Lee Lewis, Charley Pride, Pam Tillis, Randy Travis, Keith Whitley and Conway Twitty.<\/p>\n

Alan Osmond<\/h2>\n

Alan Osmond, the oldest member of the beloved Osmond family, died on April 20.<\/p>\n

He was 76.<\/p>\n

A cause of death has not been reported, but Osmond was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1987.<\/p>\n

ABC 4 reported<\/b> <\/a>that a spokesperson for the Osmonds said that Alan died at 8:30 p.m. Monday with his wife and children by his bedside.<\/p>\n

Alan was the leader of \u201cThe Osmonds\u201d along with his brothers, Alan, Merrill, Jay, Donny and Jimmy.<\/p>\n

Along with his musical career, Alan Osmond also worked as a producer on \u201cDonny and Marie\u201d and \u201cThe Osmond Family Show.\u201d<\/p>\n

ABC 4 reported that Alan stepped away from performing in the 1970s to join the National Guard. He served six years before he returned to the music business. The outlet reported that Alan retired from music following his multiple sclerosis diagnosis, but he continued to work.<\/p>\n

And that worked included helping to create the Children\u2019s Miracle Network Telethon.<\/p>\n

\u201cUpon meeting the entertainer, an ever-ready smile was ever prevalent,\u201d the family spokesperson told ABC. \u201cOne might feel as though they had known him all their life. Others\u2019 importance seemed to outshine his own, and he especially treasured the countless fans who supported the group.\u201d<\/p>\n

The spokesperson also told ABC that Alan recently expressed a desire to be with his brother Wayne, who died in 2025.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe still have a lot of work to do together,\u201d Alan reportedly said. \u201cThere is much catching up to keep us busy for a very long time.\u201d<\/p>\n

Billy Parker<\/h2>\n

Billy Parker might not be a name that many modern country music fans know, but as Channel 6 News in Oklahoma noted, he was an influential voice in the genre for decades.<\/p>\n

Parker died on Jan. 19 in a Tulsa hospital, according to the outlet.<\/p>\n

He was 88.<\/p>\n

Parker was a musician and a DJ, and his former station announced his death on social media.<\/p>\n

\u201cOur KVOO family took a big hit today,\u201d a post on Big Country 99.5\u2019s Facebook page read. \u201cWe are saddened to announce the passing of a legend, Billy Parker. Billy was with KVOO from 1971 up until his retirement in 2015. He won multiple ACM and CMA Awards, was inducted into the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame and received the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters Lifetime Achievement Award.<\/p>\n

\u201cBilly will forever be a part of the Voice of Oklahoma.\u201d<\/p>\n

Parker was named Disc Jockey of the Year by the Country Music Association in 1974, and won the award from the Academy of Country Music in 1975, 1977, 1978 and 1984.<\/p>\n

He was inducted into the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame in 1992 and won the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters\u2019 Lifetime Achievement Award in 1995.<\/p>\n

Don Schlitz<\/h2>\n

Don Schlitz, known for writing some of country music\u2019s most iconic hits, died on April 16.<\/p>\n

He was 73.<\/p>\n

Schlitz died on Thursday at a hospital in the Nashville area, according to multiple reports, after a sudden illness.<\/p>\n

His story was like that of so many aspiring artists who come from humble beginnings and make it big. According to Taste of Country,<\/b><\/a> Schlitz rode into Nashville at the age of 20 with $80 in his pocket.<\/p>\n

He went on to forge a career in which he wrote such hits as Kenny Rogers\u2019 \u201cThe Gambler,\u201d which hit No. 1 on Billboard\u2019s Hot Country Songs chart and No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100.<\/p>\n

He went on to write hits for the likes of Randy Travis, the Judds, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Tanya Tucker, Keith Whitley, Allison Krauss, and Mary Chapin Carpenter.<\/p>\n

Some of the bigger hits, along with \u201cThe Gambler,\u201d included \u201cForever and Ever, Amen,\u201d and \u201cWhen You Say Nothing at All.\u201d<\/p>\n

He also had the distinction of being commissioned by President George Bush to write a theme song for his \u201cPoints of Light\u201d program. That song, \u201cPoint of Light,\u201d was performed by Randy Travis in 1991.<\/p>\n

Schlitz, who was a native of Durham, North Carolina, earned two Grammy Awards and was named ASCAP Country Songwriter of the Year four times.<\/p>\n

During his career, he was inducted into four halls of fame: the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame. \u2014 the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame \u2014 during his career.<\/p>\n

In 2022, Schlitz was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry.<\/p>\n

Al Shade<\/h2>\n

Al Shade was not just a country music legend.<\/p>\n

He might have been the oldest performing country music artist.<\/p>\n

He died on Jan. 22, at the age of 98.<\/p>\n

Shade was a star in central Pennsylvania, where he was featured in the early 1950s on Lebanon-based radio station WLBR.<\/p>\n

He was known for hits such as \u201cI\u2019m A Star On WLBR\u201d and \u201cForever and a Day.\u201d<\/p>\n

More country music news<\/h2>\n

Read the original article on pennlive.com<\/a>. Add pennlive.com<\/a> as a Preferred Source by clicking here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\u2018 The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties \u2019 <\/em><\/p>\n

\u2018 Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.yahoo.com \u2019 <\/em><\/p>\n