Opry Veteran and Legendary Session Guitarist Jimmy Capps Passes Away at 81

Musicians Hall of Fame member and Grand Ole Opry veteran Jimmy Capps has passed away at age 81 due to health complications. After getting his start with The Louvin Brothers, Jimmy went on to become one of the most sought after session players in Nashville. Some of the incredible recordings you can hear Capps on are The Oak Ridge Boys’ “Elvira,” “Sail Away,” Tammy Wynette's "Stand By Your Man," Barbara Mandrell’s “Sleeping Single In A Double Bed,” “I was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool,” George Jones’ “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” Ronnie Milsap’s “Smokey Mountain Rain,” and “Legend In My Time,” as well as other artists such as Janie Fricke, Lacy J. Dalton, Andy Williams, Ray Charles, Mac Davis, Moe Bandy, Joe Stampley, Johnny Paycheck, John Conlee and countless more. As a staff member of the Grand Ole Opry since 1967, Capps has remained a solid foundation in Music City and can be seen on Country’s Family Reunion and as “Sheriff” Jimmy Capps on Larry’s Country Diner. Jimmy was not only a musical prodigy, but a friend to many in the music and entertainment industry.

Fellow artists mourn the loss of their friend and share fond memories that have left them forever inspired by the timeless, Jimmy Capps.

“I’m deeply saddened by the news of the passing of my dear friend, Jimmy Capps. Jimmy was maybe the kindest and most considerate person I knew in the music business. A pro’s pro, he played an important role in many of my recordings and every Opry performance we ever played together. Rozene and I send our sympathy and heartfelt prayers to Michele and all of Jimmy’s family.” - Charley Pride

“The NEWS this morning about the passing of our dear friend Jimmy Capps has been devastating. In a time of darkness Jimmy was always a light. Like everyone else in Nashville Jimmy was a part of our music and our career and our lives!!! This will take a while to process... the Oak Ridge Boys will sure miss The Man In Back ... Until the DAY” - Joe Bonsall / Oak Ridge Boys

“I have been singing professionally since I graduated from the university over 55 years ago. Jimmy Capps has been a part of my career from the beginning with The Oak Ridge Boys, starting with our gospel days and all the way through to some of our biggest hits. When you hear the guitar intro to “You're The One In A Million,” that is Jimmy Capps playing. Recently, I went to the Musicians Hall of Fame and saw a display honoring Jimmy Capps. In that display was the guitar that Jimmy played on “Elvira.” My wife, Norah Lee, has sung on the Grand Ole Opry for over 40 years. For most of those years, especially when the Opry was at the Ryman, Norah Lee has ridden with Jimmy and Michelle Capps to work. This is another gut punch for me personally, losing one of my very best friends. I ask that you remember Michelle and Jimmy's sons in your prayers. Today, there is a hole in the music industry, but Jimmy Capps’ contributions will stand the test of time. Rest in peace, Jimmy, in the arms of Jesus.” - Duane Allen / The Oak Ridge Boys

“When I first came to Nashville Jimmy Capps was already a fixture as one of the great guitar players. I worked with Jimmy many times and I got to know him and his wonderful wife Michele even better these last several years at the Opry. Jimmy was always ready with a smile, a kind word and a great guitar lick. I can’t imagine the Opry without Jimmy Capps. These crazy times are much sadder this morning.” - Crystal Gayle

“I am shocked and very saddened to hear that Jimmy Capps has passed away. He was on 90% of the songs that I’ve recorded and he can never be replaced. He was always one of the most authentic and genuine guys I’ve ever known and has accomplished so much in life. We are all so much better for knowing him. One thing that people will miss is looking over their shoulder and seeing Jimmy there. We will all miss you, Jimmy. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Michele.” - B.J. Thomas

“I will cherish the memories of working so many shows and concerts with Jimmy Capps. I will miss his smiling face. Blessings and prayers to his family.” - Janie Fricke

“I have been blessed to work with Jimmy down through the years. He was a universally loved, Godly man, a double-super cool Nashville cat and you couldn’t ask for a better friend. Sheila and I pray for Michelle and the rest of his family at this time. Rest in peace, pal.” – T. Graham Brown

“Sending our love and prayers to Michele Capps. Just heard of the passing of Nashville musician Jimmy Capps. His musicianship was heard at the Grand Ole Opry, Country’s Family Reunion, and as The Sheriff on Larry’s Country Diner. I’ve sailed many music cruises with Jimmy, and I know he was so honored to be inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame. He was always humble and kind, and will be missed by many. Rest In Sweet Peace Jimmy Capps.” - Rhonda Vincent

“I am heartbroken over the loss of our great friend Jimmy Capps. He was and always will be a country music icon. It was an honor and privilege to work with him and call him my friend. He was such an amazingly gifted musician, sweet spirit, tender-hearted and beautiful soul! I know Jesus has welcomed Jimmy with open arms into his Heavenly home. My prayers are with Michele & the family. Rest In Peace Jimmy. We love you.” – Deborah Allen

“What a way to wake up this morning. I just got the message that Jimmy Capps passed away last night. I lost my sister last week and this feels like I lost another family member now. I can’t believe he’s gone. Sending prayers for Michele and their family.” - Johnny Lee

“Jimmy, was so incredibly talented; his playing came from endless experiences - he always knew “what to play” and always elevated the music - just having him in the room made the music sound better. A sweet, sensitive soul who will be greatly missed.” - Michael Bonagura / Baillie & The Boys

“I loved Jimmy Capps. He was one of my mentors. I played alongside him in the studio and at the Grand Ole Opry for over four decades. Even now, when I close my eyes, I can see him walking through the Opry artist entrance, guitar case in hand. He walked slowly--with purpose. He was there to put on the best show he could. He loved the music. It was his life. He was the best rhythm guitar player I have EVER worked with. He was a perfectionist. As good as he was, he continued to practice and hone. That's what made him so damn good. You could always count on him to know what to play and where to play it. We shared stories and secrets. There were times he treated me like a brother. There were times he treated me like a son. But every time we were together, he treated me like a friend. R.I.P, James D. Thank you for being such a great teacher. I learned from the best--Timbo.” - Tim Atwood

"I'll always cherish the memories of any time that I was blessed to share the stage with Jimmy Capps. He is the epitome of a classic country music guitarist and one of the nicest people I ever met. RIP Jimmy Capps - we all love you dearly!" - Shane Owens

“My thoughts are with the family of Opry Legend/guitarist Mr Jimmy Capps. What an incredible legacy he will leave behind. One of Nashville’s most well respected guitarists. I had the honor of meeting him backstage at the Opry last year. He was soft-spoken and so humble. I will never forget asking him “How many times have you played the Opry in your career?” He looked at me and grinned and said “way too many to count ha ha!” - Treasured memory of Jimmy. God bless him.” - J.D. Shelburne

Country Music Hall of Famer Maxine Brown Passes Away at Age 87

K.F. Raizor, author of the website Raizor's Edge and the book We Can't Sing and We Ain't Funny: The World of Homer and Jethro is our guest writer today on That Nashville Sound. She's ever so gracious to provide wonderful tributes to honor those to whom the music we treasure just wouldn't be the same without. Thank you, K.F.

Back in the late 2000s I saw Jim Ed Brown at the Midnite Jamboree. At the autograph/meet & greet after the show I told Jim Ed how much I wished the Browns would get inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Brown smiled shyly, then said, "Well, if they're gonna do it, I wish they'd do it soon, because Maxine's health isn't good."

Who would know that Maxine Brown, the eldest of the singing trio that finally got that Hall of Fame induction in 2015, would outlive her two performing siblings. Today comes the sad word that Maxine Brown has joined her famous brother and sister in death. Maxine passed away earlier this week (1/21) in a Little Rock hospice with her family at her side. She had been suffering from heart and kidney issues.

Maxine, along with younger brother Jim Edward, burst onto the country music scene in 1954 with a song that they wrote inspired by their youngest sister, Norma, excitedly trying to explain something to them and getting her words jumbled up. That song was "Looking Back to See." In addition to becoming the first brick in the road that would lead the Browns to the Country Music Hall of Fame "Looking Back to See" became one of the more popular songs for duos to record, with acts such as Justin Tubb and Goldie Hill and Buck Owens and Susan Raye also scoring charted hits with the song. (The rhythm guitarist on the Browns' recording was Jim Ed's friend and Abbott Records label mate, Jim Reeves. Reeves would later successfully lobby RCA Victor to sign the Browns.)

After Bonnie graduated from high school she joined her older siblings and "The Browns" became the legendary trio that we remember. While there were many pit stops along the way in the 1950s (most notably, Jim Ed's Army service), the trio built a career with songs such as "I Heard the Bluebirds Sing" and the Ira and Charlie Louvin composition "I Take the Chance."

With the advent of rock and roll in the mid 50s the Browns' career waned significantly, along with many other country stars. They were about to call it a career when they recorded "The Three Bells." From there, the floundering career soared to new heights, with the song topping country, easy listening, and "hot 100" charts.

In the mid-60s the family career ended, with Maxine singing lead on their final single release, "Big Daddy." Bonnie and Maxine left to be with their young families, while Jim Ed continued with a successful solo and duet (Helen Cornelius) career.

The Browns would reunite on occasion at the Grand Ole Opry, including one memorable weekend in 2009, when the 50th anniversary of the release of "The Three Bells" was celebrated.

In 2005 Maxine penned a bestselling autobiography, Looking Back to See, about her career in country music, focusing on the trials of performing in the 50s. The book won the Ella Dickey Literary Award.

Shortly after the 2015 announcement that the Browns were being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame Jim Ed died of lung cancer. At the medallion ceremony later that year Bonnie announced that she, too, had lung cancer (although she never smoked). She passed away two weeks before her birthday in 2016.

And so closes the book on another legendary country music act. The three bells -- Jim Ed, Maxine, and Bonnie -- ring no more on earth. Oh, what a legacy they left us.

Maxine Brown was 87.

The Day The Music Died: To Those Country Music Lost in 2016

K.F. Raizor, author of the website Raizor's Edge and the book We Can't Sing and We Ain't Funny: The World of Homer and Jethro is our guest writer today on That Nashville Sound. She's ever so gracious to provide wonderful tributes to honor those to whom the music we treasure just wouldn't be the same without. Thank you, K.F.

-------------------

Here are the performers who sang their final song in 2016.



Guy Clark

Bonnie Brown (July 16, lung cancer, age 77): one-third of the Country Music Hall of Fame sibling trio the Browns, she lost her battle with lung cancer 13 months after her brother Jim Ed's death from the same disease.

Rick Christian (May 3, unknown cause, age 61): songwriter best known for writing Kenny Rogers' hit "I Don't Need You."

Guy Clark (May 17, long illness, age 74): far beyond a "songwriter's songwriter," he was more of a novelist's novelist. One of the most brilliant, heart-touching, detailed storytelling songwriters of this -- or any other -- generation.

Jack Davis (July 27, natural causes, age 91): the co-founder of Mad magazine lent his brilliant artistic skills to a number of country music album covers, including those by Ben Colder, Johnny Cash, and nine Homer & Jethro albums.



Holly Dunn

Andrew Dorff (December 19, unknown causes, age 40): songwriter with a number of modern hits including Kenny Chesney's "Save It for a Rainy Day."

Holly Dunn (November 15, ovarian cancer, age 59): singer/songwriter with a string of hits in the 90s including "You Really Had Me Going" and her signature song, "Daddy's Hands."


Richard Fagan (August 5, liver cancer, age 69): country songwriter who wrote hits for Mel McDaniel ("Real Good Feel Good Song"), George Strait ("Overnight Male"), and John Michael Montgomery ("Sold [The Grundy County Auction Incident]"). His "Overnight Male" co-writer, Kim Williams, also died this year.



Joey Feek

Joey Feek (March 4, cervical cancer, age 40): half of the husband-and-wife duo Joey + Rory who had a TV series on RFD TV and saw their album, Hymns, debut at #1 on the Billboard country charts despite being "too country" and never having a "hit."

Brien Fisher (March 11, unknown cause, age 82): Nashville music producer whose best-known work included hits with the Kendalls such as "Heaven's Just a Sin Away" and Vern Gosdin's "Today My World Slipped Away."

Joey Floyd (February 15, cancer, age 54): longtime guitarist in Toby Keith's band.


Glenn Frey (January 18, pneumonia/acute ulcerative colitis, age 67): co-founder of the legendary Eagles, the band that personified country-rock in the 70's, and lead singer on their biggest country hit, "Lyin' Eyes."



Glenn Frey

Gogi Grant (March 10, natural causes, age 91): pop singer who recorded what is probably the best-known version of the classic song "The Wayward Wind."


Mark Gray (December 2, unknown cause, age 64): one-time member of the country-rock band Exile and songwriter of Alabama's hits "The Closer You Get" and "Take Me Down."

Ray Griff (March 9, post-operative pneumonia, age 75): Canadian-born country singer with a string of hits in the 70's including "If I Let Her Come In," "Patches," and "You Ring My Bell."

Merle Haggard (April 6, pneumonia, age 79): the legendary "poet of the common man" who sang of prison, blue collar life, and heartache died on his 79th birthday.

Bill Ham (June 22, natural causes, age 79): Texas-based manager of rock legends ZZ Top as well as the man who discovered and managed country superstar Clint Black.



Merle Haggard

Hoot Hester (August 30, cancer, age 66): fiddler for the Opry staff band for years who backed acts as diverse as the Manhattan Transfer and Ray Charles. He helped co-found the Time Jumpers. And, on a personal note, he was my aunt's cousin.

Dan Hicks (February 6, liver cancer, age 74): eclectic and quirky singer/songwriter, best known for the song "I Scare Myself," who incorporated elements of country, western swing, and jazz into his performances.

Pete Huttlinger (January 15, stroke, age 54): noted flat picker guitarist who made several solo albums as well as toured with LeAnn Rimes and John Denver.

Bud Isaacs (September 4, natural causes, age 88): the Steel Guitar Hall of Famer who played on the first #1 song to feature a pedal steel ("Slowly" by Webb Pierce in 1953), he was a steel guitar master and innovator.

Sonny James

Sonny James (February 22, natural causes, age 86): Country Music Hall of Famer who went from playing fiddle as a session musician to international superstardom with hits such as "Young Love," "True Love's a Blessing," and "Born to Be With You."

Kacey Jones (September 1, colon cancer, age 66): humorist, singer, musician, leader of the country humor act Ethel and the Shameless Hussies, and a writer of songs such as Mickey Gilley's hit "I'm the One Mama Warned You About."

James King (May 19, liver disease, age 58): bluegrass singer who went from an unofficial member of Ralph Stanley's Clinch Mountain Boys to leader of the James King Band and member of the supergroup Longview, known for his heartfelt story songs such as "Thirty Years of Farming" and "Bed By the Window."

John D. Loudermilk (September 21, bone cancer, age 82): Nashville Songwriters Hall of Famer who wrote countless songs from lighthearted novelty songs ("Road Hog") to love songs (Bob Luman's "The Great Snowman") to protest songs ("Indian Reservation [Lament of the Cherokee Reservation Indian]").

Charlie "Sonny" Louvin Jr. (January 27, unknown causes, age 61): the son of Hall of Fame member Charlie Louvin frequently played guitar with his father on the road and on the Grand Ole Opry.

Lana Meisner (March 6, accidental shooting, age 63): wife of original Eagles bassist/vocalist Randy Meisner.

Ned Miller (March 18, natural causes, age 90): singer and songwriter whose best-known composition was "From a Jack to a King," a hit for himself and Ricky Van Shelton and covered by acts from Jim Reeves to Elvis Presley.

Chips Morman (June 13, long illness, age 79): Grammy-winning songwriter (for BJ Thomas' hit "[Hey, Won't You Play] Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song") who also contributed songs as diverse as "The Dark End of the Street" (an R&B hit covered by Archie Campbell) and "Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)." Morman died the day after his 79th birthday.

Don Parmley (July 30, long illness, age 82): banjo player and founder of the bluegrass band the Bluegrass Cardinals.

Joyce Paul (February 15, unknown cause, age 78): 60's country singer who had songs such as "Phone Call to Mama" and "I'm the Girl on the Billboard."

Gary S. Paxton (July 16, unknown cause, age 77): singer, songwriter, and producer who went from a member of the Hollywood Argyles ("Alley Oop") to country hits songwriter ("Woman (Sensuous Woman)" for Don Gibson) to Grammy-winning gospel songwriter and performer.

Curtis Potter (January 23, pneumonia, age 75): a member of Hank Thompson's Brazos Valley Boys, he enjoyed his own career as well as performing with Tony Booth and Darrell McCall as The Survivors.

Curly Putnam

Curly Putman (October 30, long illness, age 85): Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member who wrote or co-wrote countless hits, including "Green, Green Grass of Home," "He Stopped Loving Her Today," "D-I-V-O-R-C-E," and "War Is Hell (On the Homefront Too)."

Jim Ridley (April 8, cardiac arrest, age 50): longtime editor and journalist at the Nashville Scene music paper.

Floyd Robinson (May 28, long illness, age 79): songwriter and singer who had one charted hit, the controversial 1959 country crossover song "Makin' Love."

Mildred Haynes Rymer (November 10, stroke, age 86): sister of Henry "Homer" Haynes of Homer & Jethro.

Jean Shepard

Jean Shepard (September 25, Parkinson's disease, age 82): Country Music Hall of Fame singer who began as the duet partner on "A Dear John Letter" and went on to legendary status with a career that spanned seven decades.

Red Simpson (January 8, heart attack, age 81): one of the unsung heroes of the Bakersfield sound, he had one of the great "truck driving" songs with "Roll, Truck, Roll," wrote hits for Buck Owens ("Sam's Place"), and played on Merle Haggard's legendary "Okie From Muskogee."

Icey Sloan-Hawkins (December 17, stabbed to death, age 18): granddaughter of Jean Shepard and Hawkshaw Hawkins. She was killed by her ex-boyfriend, who was then shot by Shepard's widower Benny Birchfield (who also suffered stab wounds).

Carol Smith (December 24, natural causes, age 94): songwriter who collaborated on a number of Sonny James hits including "True Love's a Blessing," "A Little Bit South of Saskatoon," and "Don't Keep Me Hanging On."

Ralph Stanley

Dr. Ralph Stanley (June 23, skin cancer, age 89): one of the most important and significant figures in bluegrass history, Ralph overcame the 1966 death of his brother and music partner Carter to become the standard by which bluegrass performers are measured.

Kay Starr (November 3, Alzheimer's disease, age 94): singer with a long string of pop and jazz hits, she also had two top ten country hits in 1950 singing with Tennessee Ernie Ford.

Gordie Tapp (December 18, pneumonia, age 94): the head writer and one of the mainstays of the long running TV series Hee Haw.

Bob Tubert (April 10, natural causes, age 90): Ozark Jubilee scriptwriter, music publisher who helped found the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) and helped establish Belmont University's Music Business program.

Janet Watson (February 8, unknown cause, age 70): a Broadway choreographer who worked on the play Big River, which earned Roger Miller a Tony.

Kim Williams (February 11, unknown cause, age 68): 2012 Nashville Songwriters' Hall of Fame inductee who gave us, among others, Joe Diffie's "If the Devil Danced in Empty Pockets," George Strait's "Overnight Male," and Randy Travis' classic "Three Wooden Crosses."

Steve Young

Mentor Williams (November 16, unknown cause, age 70): country music singer/songwriter who teamed up with Troy Seals for a number of country hits ("A Few Ole Country Boys") but will be best remembered for his oft-covered song, "Drift Away" (which was a country hit for Narvel Felts in 1973). He was also the longtime partner of Lynn Anderson.

Rick Wright (February 7, car wreck, age 57): guitarist for Connie Smith's band for nearly two decades.

Steve Young (March 17, complications from a brain injury, age 73): "outlaw" singer/songwriter best known for writing the classics "Lonesome, Orn'ry and Mean" and "Seven Bridges Road."

Farewell, and thank you for the music.

A Veterans Day Salute To Those Country Artists That Served In The Military

K.F. Raizor, author of the website Raizor's Edge and the book We Can't Sing and We Ain't Funny: The World of Homer and Jethro is our guest writer today on That Nashville Sound. She's ever so gracious to provide wonderful tributes to honor those to whom the music we treasure just wouldn't be the same without. Thank you, K.F.

Kris Kristofferson - Army Ranger

Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day in 1938 to honor the "Great War" (what we now call World War I) veterans on the anniversary of the signing of the armistice ending the first world war (which occurred on November 11, 1918 at 11:00 a.m.).  In 1954 the name of the holiday was changed to "Veterans Day" to honor the veterans of both world wars as well as the Korean war and those who served in peacetime.

I annually publish this list of some of the members of the world of country and bluegrass music who served in the armed forces, and (if applicable) the war during which they served.  The list increases every year (sadly, usually by reading obituaries of singers who pass away).   It remains one of my most popular posts, for which I am very grateful. 

Here are the musicians in country, bluegrass, and country-rock that served in the military:

Army:

Jules Verne Allen (World War I)
Jack Anglin (World War II)
Bob Atcher (World War II)
Bobby Bare
Dr. Humphrey Bate (Spanish-American War)
Byron Berline
Pat Brady (World War II)
Rod Brasfield (World War II)
Jim Ed Brown
Tom Brumley
Horace "Aytchie" Burns (World War II)
Kenneth "Jethro" Burns (World War II)
Tommy Cash
Harold "Curly" Chalker
Hank Cochran
Earl Thomas Conley
Sonny Curtis
Tommy Duncan (World War II)
Jim Eanes (World War II)
Bob Ferguson (also served in the Marines)
John Fogerty
David Frizzell
Johnny Gimble
Jack Greene
Tom T. Hall
Bill Harrell
Esco Hankins (World War II)
Harold "Hawkshaw" Hawkins (World War II)
Red Hayes (World War II)
Henry "Homer" Haynes (World War II)
Fairley Holden (World War II)
Doyle Holly
Harlan Howard
Stonewall Jackson (primarily served in the Navy; briefly in Army but discharged after it was discovered he lied about his age)
Sonny James (Korea)
Louis "Grandpa" Jones (World War II)
Doug Kershaw
Rusty Kershaw
Bradley Kincaid (World War I)
Kris Kristofferson
John Lair
Darrell ("Pee Wee") Lambert (World War II)
Charlie Louvin (Korea; was in the Army Air Corps during WW II)
Ira Louvin (World War II)
Joe Maphis (World War II)
Darrell McCall
Del McCoury
Skeets McDonald
Jesse McReynolds (Korea)
Jim McReynolds (Korea)
Homer "Slim" Miller (World War I)
Roger Miller (Korea)
Hubert "Buster" Moore
George Morgan
"Colonel" Tom Parker
Les Paul (World War II)
Lloyd Perryman (World War II)
Webb Pierce
Elvis Presley
Charley Pride
John Prine
Boots Randolph
Jerry Reed
Don Reno (World War II)
J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson
John Shuffler (Korea)
Shel Silverstein
Arthur "Red" Smiley (World War II)
Cal Smith
James "Hal" Smith (World War II)
Carl Sprague
Ralph Stanley (World War II)
Jack Stapp (World War II)
John Starling
Henry "Redd" Stewart (World War II)
George Strait
Nat Stuckey (Korea)
Robert "Tut" Taylor (World War II) (also served in the Navy)
Floyd Tillman
Conway Twitty
T. Texas Tyler (David Myrick) (World War II)
Leroy Van Dyke
Charlie Walker (World War II)
Roland White
Doyle Wilburn (Korea)
Teddy Wilburn (Korea)
Don Williams
Bob Wills (World War II)
Faron Young

Navy:

Hoyt Axton
Kenny Baker (World War II)
Archie Campbell (World War II)
Jerry Clower
Cy Coben (World War II)
Larry Cordle
Alton Delmore (World War II)
Roy Drusky
Bill Emerson
Leon Everette
Werly Fairburn (World War II)
Benjamin "Whitey" Ford (Duke of Paducah) (World War I)
Howdy Forrester (World War II)
Claude Gray (Korea)
Buddy Harman
Ferlin Husky (Merchant Marines) (World War II)
Harold "Shot" Jackson
Stonewall Jackson (also briefly served in the Army but was discharged after it was discovered he lied about his age to enlist)
Mitch Jayne (World War II)
Claude King (World War II)
Doyle Lawson
Johnny Lee (Vietnam)
Leon McAuliffe (World War II)
Ronnie McDowell
Bill Nettles (World War I)
Dale Noe (World War II)
Johnny Paycheck (Donald Lytle)
Don Pierce (World War II)
Ray Pillow
Claude "Curly" Putman
Marvin Rainwater (World War II)
Leon Rausch (World War II)
Red Rector (briefly joined the Navy in 1942, when he was 13, but was discharged once it was discovered he had lied about his age)
Marty Robbins (World War II)
Billy Joe Shaver
Red Simpson (Korea)
Arthur "Guitar Boogie" Smith (World War II)
Carl Smith
Carl Story (World War II)
Robert "Tut" Taylor (World War II) (also served in the Army)
Hank Thompson (World War II)
Billy Edd Wheeler
Ray Whitley
Slim Whitman (World War II)
Ray Winkler (World War II)

Air Force/Army Air Corps:

Randy Atcher (World War II)
Gene Autry (World War II)
Rod Brasfield (World War II)
Henry Cannon (Mr. Minnie Pearl) (World War II)
Johnny Cash
Jerry Chesnut (Korea)
Jimmy Dean
Tennessee Ernie Ford (World War II)
Kendall Hayes
Tommy Jackson (World War II)
Red Lane
Jimmie Logsdon (World War II)
Charlie Louvin (World War II, was in the Army in Korea)
O.B. McClinton
Willie Nelson
Mike Nesmith
Mickey Newberry
Del Reeves
Charlie Rich
Carter Stanley (World War II)
Mel Tillis

Marines:

Red Allen
Wendy Bagwell (World War II)
Jack Clement
Bill Clifton
Tommy Collins (Leonard Sipes)
Don Everly
Phil Everly
Freddy Fender (Baldemar Huerta)
Bob Ferguson (Korea) (also served in the Army)
Josh Garcin
Wayne Hancock
Freddie Hart (World War II)
Jamey Johnson
George Jones
Ned Miller (World War II)
Bobby Osborne (Korea)
Ray Price (World War II)
Merle Travis (World War II)
Charles Whitstein
Robert Whitstein (Vietnam)

Thank you for your music; more importantly, thank you for your service to our country.
 

Legendary Songwriter John Loudermilk Passes Away at 82

K.F. Raizor, author of the website Raizor's Edge and the book We Can't Sing and We Ain't Funny: The World of Homer and Jethro is our guest writer today on That Nashville Sound. She's ever so gracious to provide wonderful tributes to honor those to whom the music we treasure just wouldn't be the same without. Thank you, K.F.

In a year where we already lost a songwriter's songwriter (in Guy Clark), we now must mourn the death of the legendary John D. Loudermilk.

Loudermilk died (9/21) of bone cancer in Nashville.

 Loudermilk was born and raised in Durham, North Carolina.  His grandfather worked on construction of the chapel at Duke University.  His great-great grandparents, Homer and Matilda Loudermilk, were part of the infamous "Trail of Tears," the forced march of Cherokee Indians from their North Carolina home to Oklahoma in 1838.  His cousins were Ira and Charlie Louvin.

 As part of the "folk revival" in the 1950s, Loudermilk wrote and recorded songs that ranged from silly ("Road Hog," a parody of "Ground Hog" that featured a "county sheriff in my unmarked car" pulling over speeders) to sublime (what may be his best-known song, "Indian Reservation [Lament of the Cherokee Reservation Indian]," which he wrote after some Eastern Band Cherokee rescued him from his broken-down vehicle on a snowy night in Cherokee and requested that he write a song about them). 

 Folk singers (the Nashville Teens - "Tobacco Road") country stars (Stonewall Jackson - "Waterloo"), crossover hits (George Hamilton IV -- "A Rose and a Baby Ruth" and "Break My Mind"), early rock and roll (Sue Thompson - "Norman" and "James [Hold the Ladder Steady]"), and even later rock acts (Paul Revere and the Raiders took "Indian Reservation" to #1 in 1971) did John D. Loudermilk songs.  His song "Blue Train (of the Heartbreak Line)" won the International Bluegrass Music Association "Song of the Year" in 2003 on the strength of the hit version by Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver.

 Additionally, he had charted songs on both the pop and country charts himself.  His biggest pop hit of his own music was "Language of Love," which hit #32 on the charts in 1961.  In country, he had two top 40 hits, "Bad News" (later covered by Johnny Cash) and "That Ain't All."

 Loudermilk was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters' Hall of Fame in 1976.

 Farewell to the brilliant John D. Loudermilk, who was 82.
 

Looking Back On Those We Lost In 2011

By K.F. Raizor

Here is a list of the people in the world of country music for whom the final curtain fell in 2011.

Harley Allen (lung cancer, March 30, age 55):  the son of bluegrass great Red Allen was a singer and songwriter on his own, having penned such songs as Dierks Bentley's "My Last Name," John Michael Montgomery's "The Little Girl" and Alan Jackson's "Between the Devil and Me."

Liz Anderson (heart and lung disease, October 28, age 81):  Lynn Anderson's mother had a career as a singer ("Mama Spank," "The Game of Triangles") and a songwriter ("(All My Friends Are Gonna Be) Strangers," her daughter's hit "If I Kiss You (Will You Go Away)," and Homer & Jethro's "I Crept Into the Crypt and Cried").

Kenny Baker (stroke, July 8, age 85):  he was Bill Monroe's fiddler for a quarter century, and some would argue that he was the best fiddler bluegrass ever saw.

Carl Bunch (complications of diabetes, March 26, age 71):  As a 19-year-old he was on tour as Buddy Holly's drummer and found himself in the hospital suffering from frostbite when Holly lost his life.  In the 60s he played drums with Hank Williams Jr. and Roy Orbison before retiring to the ministry.

Patsi Bale Cox (emphysema, November 5, age 66):  a gifted writer with a passion for country music, she wrote her own books (The Garth Factor) and collaborated with the likes of Loretta Lynn (Still Woman Enough), Tanya Tucker (Nickel Dreams) and Ralph Emery (50 Years Down a Country Road).

Jack Barlow (long illness, July 29, age 87):  a singer/songwriter with hits such as "I Love Country Music" and "Catch the Wind," he also recorded a novelty song, "The Man on Page 602," under the pseudonym Zoot Fenster.

Todd Cerney (cancer, March 14, age 57):  Songwriter behind the 2002 hit "Good Morning Beautiful" and "I'll Still Be Loving You."

Buddy Charleton (lung cancer, January 25, age 72):  No one needed Ernest Tubb to say, "Ah, Buddy now," when Charleton took a steel guitar break in an Ernest Tubb song because we all knew that distinctive sound that made songs such as "Waltz Across Texas" the classics they are.

Wilma Lee Cooper (natural causes, September 13, age 90):  100% pure country mountain music from start to finish, Wilma Lee started with husband Stoney and continued on the Opry after his death until a 2001 stroke left her unable to perform.

Charlie Craig (lung cancer, July 1, age 73):  Songwriter behind "She's Single Again" by Janie Fricke and "Wanted" by Alan Jackson.

Hazel Dickens (pneumonia, April 22, age 75):  A recipient of IBMA's Distinguished Achievement award, Hazel was the child of hard times in West Virginia who could articulate those emotions in song, then deliver them, like no one else.

Joel "Taz" DiGregorio (car wreck, October 12, age 67):  Charlie Daniel's keyboard player and songwriting partner for nearly 40 years, he wrote the fan favorite "The Devil Went Down to Georgia."

Charlie Douglas (ne Douglas China, unknown cause, November 24, age 78):  Charlie invented a new format for radio: the overnight "trucker" show.  He was a staple on New Orleans' WWL and Nashville's WSM.

Lamar Fike (non-Hodgken's lymphoma, January 21, age 75):  The second-longest tenured member of Elvis' "Memphis Mafia," he co-wrote Elvis and the Memphis Mafia.  He also served as Brenda Lee's road manager in the 60s and was a Capitol Records executive under Jimmy Bowen.

Billy Grammer (long illness, August 10, age 85):  A guitar designer and well-loved session man, he scored a huge hit in 1959 with "Gotta Travel On."

Marshall Grant (brain aneurysm, August 6, age 83):  The final member of Johnny Cash's seminal original backing band the Tennessee Two, he was stricken while preparing to perform at a show in Arkansas to raise money to preserve Cash's boyhood home.

Carlton Haney (stroke, March 16, age 82):  The name may not ring a bell, but every bluegrass fan is indebted to Haney.  He is credited with organizing bluegrass music's first festival.  He was also the booking agent for the likes of Bill Monroe and Reno & Smiley.

Warren Hellman (leukemia, December 18, age 77):  San Francisco businessman who founded and helped finance the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival, which, with line-ups that included everyone from Elvis Costello to Hazel Dickens and the New Coon Creek Girls, was exactly what the name implied.

Ferlin Husky (colon cancer/congestive heart failure, March 17, age 85):  Simon Crum's best friend gave the world two massive crossover hits:  1957's "Gone" and 1960's "Wings of a Dove."  He died shortly after it was announced that his "A Dear John Letter" singing partner, Jean Shepard, was being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, an honor Husky received in 2010.

Gene Kurtz (cancer, October 24, age 68):  Co-writer of the hit "Treat Her Right," Kurtz spent many years playing in the Austin alt-country scene.

Charlie Louvin (pancreatic cancer, January 26, age 83):  The Louvin Brothers didn't invent harmony, they just made it sound that way.  After Ira's death in 1965 Charlie continued on a solo career that he once said was more commercially successful than the Louvin Brothers', but it's the unbelievable harmonies he made with Ira that will keep him forever in our hearts.

Wade Mainer (congestive heart failure, September 12, age 104):  Jethro Burns said in 1984 that Mainer belonged in the Hall of Fame because he was a true pioneer in the world of country music.  He was older than country music and served it faithfully for over 70 years.

Johnny Mathis (pneumonia, September 27, age 80):  Before there was a pop singer there was Country Johnny Mathis.  His partnership with Johnny Lee Fautheree as Jimmy & Johnny yielded the smash "If You Don't Somebody Else Will."  Songs he wrote were recorded by the likes of Ray Price, Johnny Paycheck, and George Jones.

Mel McDaniel (lung cancer, March 31, age 68):  Country singer and Opry member who had a string of hits in the 1980s including "Louisiana Saturday Night," "Baby's Got Her Blue Jeans On," and "Big Ole Brew."

Huey Meaux (illness, April 23, age 82):  In addition to discovering the Sir Douglas Quintet he owned Sugar Hill Studios and introduced the world to "Wasted Days and Wasted Nights" by Freddy Fender.

Ralph Mooney (kidney cancer, March 20, age 82):  One of country music's greatest steel guitarists, he wrote Ray Price's classic "Crazy Arms" and played with the likes of Wynn Stewart,  Buck Owens and Waylon Jennings.

Roger Nichols (pancreatic cancer, April 9, age 66):  Steely Dan listed him as "the immortal" on their albums in the 1970s, but Nichols also worked with country acts including Rosanne Cash and John Denver (with whom he won a Grammy).

Joe Paul Nichols (Lou Gehrig's Disease, July 27, age 69):  One of the die-hard traditional country performers on the Heart of Texas label, he was also a member of the International Country Gospel Music Association.

James O'Gwynn (pneumonia, January 19, age 82):  Known as "the Smiling Irishman of Country Music," his best-known songs were "House of Blue Lovers" and "My Name is Mud."

Bobby Poe (blood clot, January 22, age 77):  Rockabilly performer who began his career as a member of Wanda Jackson's band.

Johnny Preston (heart failure, March 4, age 71):  His massive 1959 smash "Running Bear" (which was later covered by Sonny James) featured backing vocals and guitar work by George Jones and was written by "Beggar to a King" songwriter J.P. (Big Bopper) Richardson.

Jody Rainwater (ne Charles Johnson; complications of heart attack and other ailments, December 24, age 92):  The one-time bass player for Lester Flatt & Earl Scruggs was also a longtime and well-loved disc jockey on WSVS in Virginia.

Billie Jo Spears (cancer, December 14, age 74):  Gifted singer with hits over three decades such as "Mr. Walker, It's All Over" and "Blanket on the Ground."

Dan "Bee" Spears (exposure after falling outside his home, December 8, age 62):  Willie Nelson's bassist for over four decades and the backbone of his band.

Joe Taylor (heart disease, March 24, age 89):  A Hoosier native who was content to play his music in Indiana instead of seeking national fame, he nevertheless found it when his song "He's a Cowboy Auctioneer" was recorded by Tex Ritter.

Buster Turner (unknown causes, March 3, age 82):  An east Tennessee-based country, bluegrass and gospel performer who gave us the classic song "Beautiful Altar of Prayer."

Don Wayne (illness, September 12, age 78):  Songwriter who wrote the classics "Country Bumpkin" and "Saginaw, Michigan."

Margaret Whiting (natural causes, January 11, age 86):  Primarily known as a pop singer, she hit the country charts numerous times as Jimmy Wakely's duet partner on hits like "Slippin' Around."

Doc Williams (natural causes, January 31, age 96):  A longtime member of the Wheeling Jamboree and influence on countless West Virginia country musicians such as Brad Paisley.

Jim Williamson (COPD, January 24, age 75):  Longtime recording engineer who worked on songs like "Coal Miner's Daughter," "Stand By Your Man" and "Rose Garden."

Randy Wood (complications of a fall, April 9, age 94):  The man who gave us Dot Records, early home of acts such as Mac Wiseman, Bonnie Guitar, Roy Clark and Barbara Mandrell.

Johnnie Wright (natural causes, September 27, age 97):  Mr. Kitty Wells had a long career with duet partner Jack Anglin as Johnnie & Jack as well as a successful solo career.

Paul Yandell (cancer, November 21, age 76):  A skinny kid who idolized Chet Atkins joined the Louvin Brothers' band in the 50s and eventually became Chet's right-hand guitarist and the last person to be designated a Certified Guitar Picker.

Farewell, and thank you for the music.

Independent scholar and free-lance writer since 1989, K.F. Raizor's work has appeared in "Lefthander" magazine and "Hard Country Beat", and hosted a column from 1994 until the magazine ceased publication in 1998. You can look forward to an upcoming project on Country Music Hall of Famers Homer and Jethro. Check out the country blog at Raizor's Edge.

Hall Of Famer Charlie Louvin Loses Battle With Pancreatic Cancer

In the early morning of January 26, country music legend Charlie Louvin passed away at his home in Wartrace, Tennessee, surrounded by family. Louvin is survived by his wife Betty, and three sons, Charlie Jr. (Sonny), Glenn and Kenneth. A private funeral for Louvin will be held in Nashville, on Sunday, January 30.

Louvin had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the summer of 2010 and had subsequently undergone surgery to help combat the disease. The surgery was limited in its success, but Charlie’s health was stable enough that he was able to enjoy his love of performing live up until the end of his life.

Louvin’s own words to Nashville newspaper The Tennessean in 2010 characterize the constant professionalism and work ethic he was renowned for within the industry, and his “Show business is all I really know how to do,” said Louvin. “and I would like for it to be the last thing I do.”

“I had the honor and pleasure to be Charlie Louvin’s manager,” Says Brett Steele. “Some artist’s greatest contribution can be the influence they have over other artists and Charlie’s reach was immeasurable from The Beatles to Gram Parson. While The Louvin Brothers will be remembered as one of the greatest country duos in the history of country music Charlie’s solo career was just as successful and relevant. But his greatest legacy was Charlie Louvin the man, husband, father and friend. That outshines any of his musical contributions to our society. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.”

Louvin, a Country Music Hall of Famer, was revered as a true icon of country music for decades. He began his career as one half of The Louvin Brothers, and has released nearly 20 albums spanning over forty years. His music had strong influence over an array of acclaimed artists including Emmylou Harris, Gram Parsons, and The Raconteurs. Louvin was the oldest living member of the Grand Ole Opry having been made a member in 1955.

In 2004, Livin', Lovin' Losin': Songs of the Louvin Brothers musical tribute to the Louvin Brothers featuring James Taylor, Merle Haggard, Dolly Parton, and Johnny Cash won two GRAMMY® Awards for Best Country Album and, Best Country Collaboration.

In recent years, Louvin continued his solo work and enjoyed a revitalization of his career. In November of 2010 he released his final studio albume The Battle Rages On, emotional collection of war songs dating back to the American Civil War which includes the talents of special guests Del McCoury and Jamie Dailey.

Country Music Hall Of Famer Charlie Louvin Admitted To Hospital With Grim Prognosis

Grand Ole Opry historian Byron Fay went to his webpage earlier today to deliver some melancholy news about Country Music Hall of Famer Charlie Louvin. From his webpage:

Here is some additional information about Charlie Louvin. The source of these additional comments is his son, Charlie Louvin, Jr, known as Sonny. He is reporting that his father is losing the fight with pancreatic cancer. He was admitted on Monday to a hospital in Tullahoma, Tennessee for dehydration and a urinary tract infection. According to Sonny, "About three weeks ago, Charlie took a turn for the worse. He went back to his old ways, smoking more than ever." Again from Sonny, "It's over. He's already told me that he doesn't want to sing, work anymore. He said 'I'm tired, son and want to go home'. He's had a great run in life. I know a side of him that not too many know. His mind is in a lot of confusion, hallucinations, etc., but he knows me." Again, that is from Sonny Louvin. Really sad news.

New Music Video From Charlie Louvin- "Weapon of Prayer"

Country Music Hall of Fame member Charlie Louvin recently filmed his first music video, and recruited bluegrass legend Del McCoury to appear in it. The song “Weapon Of Prayer” is from Louvin’s True North Records debut album The Battles Rage On.

Charlie Louvin Releasing The Battle Rages On November 9th

Charlie Louvin’s The Battles Rage On will be released Tuesday, November 9, 2010. The album is available to pre-order now, but will not be shipped until the release date.

The Battles Rage On is a sweeping and emotional collection of war songs dating back to the American Civil War, and includes the talents of special guests Del McCoury and Jamie Dailey.

Louvin, a Country Music Hall of Famer, is revered as a true icon of country music. He began his career as one half of The Louvin Brothers, and has released nearly 20 albums spanning over four decades. His music has influenced such acclaimed artists as Emmylou Harris, Gram Parsons, and The Raconteurs.

The title of the album has special meaning. As Charlie Louvin was turning 83 this year, he discovered a new foe. He has been fighting a recent diagnosis of stage 2 pancreatic cancer.

Track Listing:
  1. Smoke on the Water

  2. More Than a Name On a Wall
  3. I Wonder If They Ever Think of Me
  4. There's a Star Spangled Banner
  5. Just Before the Battle Mother
  6. What We're Fighting For
  7. Mother I Thank You for the Bible
  8. A Soldier's Last Letter
  9. Weapon of Prayer
10. Robe of White
11. Searching for a Soldier's Grave
12. Down by the Riverside

Grand Ole Opry Member & CMHOF Member Charlie Louvin Fighting Pancreatic Cancer

The following is what was posted on Country Music Hall of Fame member and Grand Ole Opry member (since 1955) Charlie Louvin's website yesterday.

"He is discovering a new foe. He recently went in to see the doctor with what seemed to be a minor complaint and came back with a diagnosis of stage 2 pancreatic cancer. Suddenly, the success of his soon-to-be-released, new CD is not nearly as important as Charlie's victory over one of the most virulent forms of cancer. He has been through a lot in his 83 years, but this hurdle is one he was not counting on. Charlie's family and friends are encouraged that he will be in good hands, but they definitely covet your prayers."

The surgery is scheduled for July 22 at Vanderbilt Hospital, and he will under go what is called a "whipple procedure." The web site further states that he will be unable to perform for several weeks after his surgery, but he tentatively hopes to be back on stage by Aug. 21.