Happy Birthday to today’s Country Music Birthdays!

• Billy Yates
• Jan Howard (d)
• Liz Anderson (d)

• Luke Bryan performing “Rain Is a Good Thing” at the Grand Ole Opry
• Eric Church performing “Drink In My Hand” at the Ryman Auditorium
• Luke Combs performing “When It Rains It Pours” at the Bluebird Cafe
• Thomas Rhett performing “It Goes Like This” at the Ryman Auditorium
• Carrie Underwood performing “Before He Cheats” at the Grand Ole Opry

There will be 24 performances total tonight including a special tribute to the women of country music.

Keith Urban

Keith Urban is hosting the show and welcomes viewers from around the world, talks about how fans can’t be there due to COVID-19.  He then sent well-wishes out to those fighting the wild fires out west and those dealing with Hurricane Sally.  He then talked about we are dealing with two pandemics – COVID-19 and social injustice.  No jokes in tonight’s opening monologue.

Jimmie Allen performed “Make Me Want To” at the Bluebird Cafe.

Old Dominion

Old Dominion performed a medley of “One Man Band,” “Song for Another Time,” “Hotel Key,” and “Make It Sweet”  at the Ryman Auditorium.

Clint Black

Time for the first award of the night, presented by Clint Black and Lisa Hartman Black.

Duo of the Year

• Brooks & Dunn
• Brothers Osborne
• Dan + Shay – WINNER
  
• Florida Georgia Line
• Maddie & Tae

Luke Bryan

Luke Bryan is back to perform “One Margarita” at the Grand Ole Opry

Bobby Bones is out to give the next award.

Old Dominion

Song of the Year

• “10,000 Hours” by Dan + Shay w/ Justin Bieber
• “Girl Going Nowhere” by Ashley McBryde
• “God’s Country” by Blake Shelton
• “One Man Band” by Old Dominion – WINNER
• “Some Of It” by Eric Church

Kelsea Ballerini

Kelsea Ballerini was next on stage at the Ryman Auditorium to perform “Hole in the Bottle”

Runaway June was on stage next at the Grand Ole Opry to introduce a feature about the ACM Lifting Lives event that had to go virtual this year.

Miranda Lambert

Miranda Lambert performed an acoustic version of her hit “Bluebird” along with her co-writers of the song at the Bluebird Cafe.

Keith Urban and Miranda Lambert “video-chatted” briefly about how she won Musical Event earlier this week.  This was Lambert’s 35th ACM Award!

Morgan Wallen performed his hit single “Whiskey Glasses”

Model Lily Aldridge came out to present the next award:

Old Dominion

Group of the Year

• Lady A
• Little Big Town
• Midland
• Old Dominion – WINNER
• The Highwomen

Thomas Rhett and Jon Pardi performed “Beer Can’t Fix”

Blake Shelton

Blake Shelton & Gwen Stefani performed their new duet “Happy Anywhere” on a green screen somewhere outside of Nashville so they could make it look like they’re at the Bluebird Cafe.  Might be in Los Angeles since they’re taping The Voice?

Carrie Underwood

Keith Urban introduced Carrie Underwood at the Opry who played a medley of hits to honor the Women of Country Music History.  The songs included:

• “Crazy” by Pasty Cline
• “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” by Loretta Lynn
• “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” by Barbara Mandrell
• “Why’d You Come In Here Lookin’ Like That” by Dolly Parton
• “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia” by Reba McEntire
• “Broken Wing” by Martina McBride

Luke Combs

Luke Combs did a feature for Ford where they gave out guitars for the Guitars for Vets program.  He then played his new single “Better Together” in honor of his new wife.

Tenille Townes, who won Best New Female Artist of the Year Award earlier this week, performed her single “Somebody’s Daughter” at the Ryman Auditorium.

Gabby Barrett performed “I Hope” at the Ryman Auditorium.

Dan + Shay

Dan + Shay performed “I Should Probably Go To Bed” at the Grand Ole Opry.

Riley Green gave a brief acceptance speech for his ACM Best New Male Artist Award that he won earlier this week, before performing “I Wish Grandpa’s Never Died” at the Ryman Auditorium.

Kane Brown performed “Worldwide Beautiful” with a chorus of singers stationed around the seats of the Grand Ole Opry.

Cam

Cam came out to announce the next award:

Single of the Year

• “God’s Country” by Blake Shelton – WINNER
• “One Man Band” by Old Dominion
• “Rainbow” by Kacey Musgraves
• “Rumor” by Lee Brice
• “What If I Never Get Over You” by Lady A

Maren Morris performed her new single “To Hell and Back”

Taylor Swift made her first appearance on the ACM Awards in seven years to perform her song “Betty” at the Grand Ole Opry.

Darius Rucker came out to present the next award:

Luke Combs

Album of the Year

• Center Point Road by Thomas Rhett
• Girl by Maren Morris
• Heartache Medication by Jon Pardi
• What You See Is What You Get by Luke Combs – WINNER
• Wildcard by Miranda Lambert

Keith Urban gave a “Get well soon” shout out to Blanco Brown due to his recent car accident before making the next introduction.

Eric Church

Eric Church came out to a recording of Johnny Cash’s “Ragged Old Flag” before performing his new single “Stick That In Your Country Song.”

Tim McGraw

Tim McGraw performed “I Called Mama” at the Bluebird Cafe.

Mickey Guyton and Keith Urban performed “What Are You Going to Tell Her” at the Grand Ole Opry.

Keith Urban

Miranda Lambert introduced Keith Urban and P!nk for their new duet “One Too Many” – Keith Urban was at the Grand Ole Opry, while Pink appeared to have been somewhere else on a green screen.

Lauren Alaina

Lauren Alaina was out next to present:

Luke Combs

Male Artist of the Year:

• Dierks Bentley
• Luke Combs – WINNER
• Thomas Rhett
• Chris Stapleton
• Keith Urban

Cece Wayans came out next to present:

Maren Morris

Female Artist of the Year

• Kelsea Ballerini
• Miranda Lambert
• Maren Morris – WINNER
• Kacey Musgraves
• Carrie Underwood

Trisha Yearwood

Trisha Yearwood performed “I’ll Carry You Home” as a tribute for those lost in the country music world in the past year including:

• Earl Thomas Conley
• Harold Reid (Statler Brothers)
• Bob Kingsley
• John Prine
• Jimmy Capps
• Biff Adam
• Paul English
• Alex Harvey
• Sonny Curtis
• Bill Mack
• Jan Howard
• David Olney
• Gary McSpadden
• Joe Mansfield
• Kenny Dixon
• Dan Mitchell
• busbee
• Chuck & Jim Glaser
• Russell Smith
• Jay Frank
• William Pursell
• Joe Diffie
• Charlie Daniels
• Kenny Rogers

Florida Georgia Line

Florida Georgia performed a “I Love My Country”

The final award of the night, as given by Keith Urban, is a TIE!

Entertainer of the Year

• Luke Bryan
• Eric Church
• Luke Combs
• Thomas Rhett – CO-WINNER
• Carrie Underwood – CO-WINNER

The show closed with a montage video of several of today’s up-and-coming artists performing “On the Road Again” with Willie Nelson about how they can’t wait to get back on the road again.

So what did you all think of tonight’s show?  Leave your comments on our social media platforms!

The post 2020 ACM Awards Play-by-Play Thread first appeared on Hometown Country Music.]]> https://www.hometowncountrymusic.com/hcm-daily-news-march-30th-2020/ Tue, 31 Mar 2020 02:19:10 +0000 https://www.hometowncountrymusic.com/?p=25450 Recent Country Music News Headlines Remembering Joe Diffie This Week’s Charts Interview with Surrender Hill Updated:  Remembering Grand Ole Opry Star Jan Howard Aaron Watson Offering $5 CDs Billy Bob’s Texas to Celebrate 39th Birthday with Online Show on April 1st Josh Ward’s “One More Shot of Whiskey” Tops the Texas Country Chart This Week’s [...]

Joe Diffie

Recent Country Music News Headlines

• Remembering Joe Diffie
• This Week’s Charts
• Interview with Surrender Hill
• Updated:  Remembering Grand Ole Opry Star Jan Howard
• Aaron Watson Offering $5 CDs
• Billy Bob’s Texas to Celebrate 39th Birthday with Online Show on April 1st
• Josh Ward’s “One More Shot of Whiskey” Tops the Texas Country Chart
• This Week’s #1 Album:  The Best Of Kenny Rogers: Through The Years by Kenny Rogers
• This Week’s #1 Song:  “What She Wants Tonight” by Luke Bryan
• Most Added Single at Radio:  “I Love My Country” by Florida Georgia Line
• Most Streamed Song:  “10,000 Hours” by Dan + Shay w/ Justin Bieber
• Most Downloaded Song:  “The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers
• Billboard’s Weekly Update
• Country Aircheck Weekly Update

Recommended Viewing – Recent Country Music Videos

• Quarantunes #8 with Raul Melo of The Mavericks
• Cover Video:  Ray Charles’ “You Don’t Know Me” by David Shelby
• Lockdown with Earl Dibbles Jr.
• Dustin Lynch’s Vlog #14
• James Barker Live – 3/29/20
• Garth Brooks:  Gershwin Prize on PBS
• George Canyon’s Online Concert – Episode 2
• Video Flashback:  Mark Chesnutt, Joe Diffie, & Tracy Lawrence “Rockin’ Roadhouse Tour”
• Lyric Video:  “The Other Side” by Lauren Alaina
• Audio:  “Bagpipes – That’s My Bag” by Ray Stevens
• Acoustic Video:  “A Few Questions” by Clay Walker
• CMT Video:  Matt Stell Plays the “Everywhere But On” Game
• Shania Twain Episode 4
• Lyric Video:  “Be A Light” by Thomas Rhett
• Live Video:  “One Shot” by Hunter Hayes
• Live Video:  “Spur of the Moment” by Kylie Frey
• Cover Video:  Joe Diffie’s “It’s Always Something” by The Eli Young Band

This Date in Country Music History

• 2018 – Kacey Musgraves released her album Golden Hour
• 2018 – Ashley McBryde released her debut major-label album Girl Going Nowhere
• 2013 – Kacey Musgraves made her Grand Ole Opry debut
• 2010 – Alan Jackson released his album Freight Train
• 2009 – Jack Ingram released his single “Barefoot and Crazy”
• 2002 – Martina McBride topped the charts with “Blessed”
• 1996 – Billy Ray Cyrus made his Grand Ole Opry debut
• 1974 – Tanya Tucker topped the charts with “Would You Lay With Me (In a Field of Stone)”

Today’s Birthdays (See All Country Artist Birthdays)

• Thomas Rhett
• Justin Moore

Today’s New Albums (See All Album Release Dates)

• Sons of the Pioneers – The Lost Masters

Today’s New Singles (See All Single Release Dates)

• To Hell and Back – Maren Morris
• Loved By You – Tiffany Woys
• Forever Ain’t Long Enough – Adam Hambrick
• Luke’s Guitar – Ethan Payne
• Trucker Hat – Dave McElroy

Today’s Photo Flashback (See All Photos)

• Ashton Shepherd – 3/30/11 – Renegades in West Palm Beach, FL
• David Nail – 3/30/11 – Renegades in West Palm Beach, FL
• Tom Jackson – 3/30/11 – Renegades in West Palm Beach, FL

Contests

• Win a trip to meet Old Dominion in Tampa, FL – ends 4/15/20
• Win 2 Tickets and Meet & Greet Passes for Little Big Town – ends 4/24/20
• Win an Autographed Luke Bryan Prize Pack – ends 4/24/20
• Win 2 Tickets and Meet & Greet Passes for LANco – ends 5/1/20

This Week’s Events (See All Upcoming Events)

• None Listed

The post HCM Daily News – March 30th, 2020 first appeared on Hometown Country Music.]]>

Joe Diffie

Country star and Grand Ole Opry member Joe Diffie has passed away at the age of 61.  This news comes two days after it was announced that he was diagnosed with COVID-19, which ultimately led to his passing.

Diffie came onto the scene in 1990, scoring a #1 hit with his debut single “Home” after first coming to Nashville as a demo singer in the 1980’s.  His first six singles reached the top 5, and he went on to have seventeen top-10 hits.  His #1 hits also included “If The Devil Danced (In Empty Pockets),” “Third Rock From The Sun,” “Pickup Man,” and “Bigger Than The Beatles.”  His last top-40 single, “Tougher Than Nails,” peaked at #19 on the charts in 2004.  He won an ACM Award along with George Jones for “I Don’t Need Your Rockin’ Chair” and a GRAMMY for his collaboration with Marty Stuart, “Same Old Train.”

Diffie was still actively recording and touring up until the time the country was shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic and his following diagnosis, and had just recently cancelled his March 21st show in Tifton, GA.  He leaves behind a wife and five children.  His family has asked for privacy during this time.

We had the chance to meet up with Diffie in Nashville in 2013 during CMA Fest for this interview, and photographed his shows in Florida in 2009 and 2013.  He was one of the nicest artists we’ve had the pleasure of meeting and was always a must-see anytime he came into town for a gig.

Diffie’s passing is the third blow in nine days to the country music world, having lost Kenny Rogers last Friday night and Jan Howard yesterday.

The country music community is reacting to the news of Diffie’s passing with a tremendous amount of love and admiration, here is what they are saying:

Forever John Deere Green

— John Deere (@JohnDeere) March 29, 2020

• Aaron Tippin – I am in total shock and disbelief at the passing of my friend, tourmate and Country legend, Joe Diffie. My heart is broken and I’m praying for his family and for our country as we deal with this horrible pandemic. You will be missed, Joe. Rest in Peace.
• Adam Sanders – When you think of 90’s country, you think Joe Diffie. It was such an honor to have Joe included in the lineup of my 2nd annual “90’s Night” in Nashville back in March of 2018. His music will continue to impact generations to come in ways that only a few can.
• Anita Cochran – I’m so very sad to know that a friend and one of the best country singers we’ve ever had @JoeDiffieOnline has passed away from this damn corona virus. My prayers to all his friends and family. We lost a real deal today/(. RIP Joe. You will be missed!
• Anthony Smith – As many of you know the great #JoeDiffie has passed away. He was my all-time favorite country singer and I believe the best country singer to ever to set foot in Nashville. My favorite country record of all time was Joe Diffie’s A 1000 winding roads. I’m not sure if he’ll ever be a country singer that Good ever again. RIP Joe!
• Bellamy Brothers – We are devastated to hear about the passing of Joe Diffie today. We met Joe and became friends with him right after his first hits in the early 1990s. We will miss him so much and are sending our prayers to his family.
• Big & Rich – “Joe was a real true honky tonk hero to every country artist alive today. No one sang our music better than he did, and to see his life and artistry cut short is beyond tragic. He was loved, cherished and respected by all of country music and beyond. Thank you for all the great memories, brother Joe.” #joediffie #rip #legend #friend
• Bigg Vinny (Trailer Choir) – RIP PICKUP MAN!!!!! Thank you for sharing your voice with the world!!!! I was honored and blessed to spend some time with you and learn from you on a few occasions!!! KIND, HUMBLE, TALENTED, and a GREAT MAN!!!! You will be missed!!!
• Bill Anderson – What a sad weekend for our country music and Grand Ole Opry families with the passing of Jan Howard and now Joe Diffie. Joe was a great singer…his record of “Ships That Don’t Come In” is one of my all-time favorite performances. I always knew when I introduced him at the Opry that the fans were about to be well entertained. Joe will certainly be missed.
• Bill Engvall – Friends I am so sad to tell you my Joe Diffie has passed away. My heart is breaking, we toured together and became life long friend. I am at a loss. Please say a prayer for his family. Hopefully he is painting a water tower in heaven John Deere Green. RIP BUDDY
• Bill Engvall part 2:  Tonite I sit here with tears in my eyes as I listen to my friend Joe Diffie. I am toasting him with a Crown Royal. Why you might ask, I first met Joe on the Crown Royal Country tour. We toured together and had a lot of laughs. We also had the occasion to have some real heart to heart talks. The kind of talks where you really get to know the person. One night we were on his bus going through New York City it was just Joe and I, we talked til 4 in the morning. Joe was the kind of friend that it didn’t matter how much time had passed since the last time you saw them, the conversation picked up as if you saw them yesterday. I am so sad for his family and everyone that ever knew him. Joe always made you feel as you were the most important person in the room. While we lost a great man,the choir in heaven has gained one of the best voices around and the angels song just got a lot sweeter. I will miss you my friend but we will see each other again. RIP Joe.
• Billy Dean – I don’t really know if people realize how great a singer Joe Diffie was. We were buddies before we ever had our record deals. He had a great sense humor. He proved that to me when he recorded a funny tune I wrote called ‘Good Brown Gravy’ and invited me to sing on the record with him. Joe Diffie set the standard for our Country sound back in the 90’s. He was just a regular Joe, as he would put it, but he also will go down in history as one of the greats, I do believe.
• Billy Ray Cyrus – Beyond sadness. Beyond a loss for words. My thoughts and prayers for Joe Diffie’s family and fans.
• Brad Paisley – I’m devastated by the loss of my friend Joe Diffie. I can’t find adequate words. But the records he made, that voice, the twinkle in his eye, and our memories cannot be taken away by this disease.  Please celebrate his music today everyone, go listen again to his records.  And do EVERYTHING we need to do to defeat this virus.
• Bryan White – In complete shock and disbelief over the loss of The great #JoeDiffie. It just isn’t real. This news is awful. Joe’s voice was one of a kind. One of the greatest voices in Country Music. Huge fan. Prayers for his family. He’ll be missed. Love you Joe. Rest In Peace #home #okies
• Buddy Jewell – I’m absolutely stunned at the loss of Joe Diffie. What an incredible singer. He was always one of my heroes. Not only was he one of the greatest singers I ever heard, but, the fact that he worked his way up through the demo ranks just like I did made me feel especially close to him. He was always so kind to me. May God’s grace and peace be with his family and fans at this time.
• Carly Pearce – can’t even begin to find the words. RIP @JoeDiffieOnline – you meant so much to our country music community and were such a dear friend to my husband. May your spirit & songs live on in us
• Carrie Underwood – Absolutely no words for the loss of Joe Diffie. The music and legacy he leaves behind are legendary. Prayers for his family and friends.
• Chad Brock – Just found out my friend Joe Diffie passed away from the Virus. This is getting real. Especially when it touches so close to home. Rest In Peace Joe. Tara Diffie I am so very sorry.
• Charlie Daniels – Just got word that Joe Diffie has passed away. Sincere condolences to his family. It’s such a shock and such a loss for Country Music. Rest In Peace, Joe.
• Chase Rice – If you wanna listen to some of the best country music ever made, listen to this guy. He opened for me a few years back and I was the one asking him for a picture. Great artist, great man. Thanks for singing songs that will touch me til I join you up with Jesus. Rest In Peace Joe. Painting something on my farm John Deere green tonight.
• Chris Janson – @JoeDiffieOnline was one of the nicest stars on the planet. The REAL deal. I’m incredibly sorry for his family. Thanks for the great memories Joe, miss you. @opry family member. #pickupman
• Chris Young – I used to drive back and forth from Texas to TN listening to nothing but Joe Diffie songs… I was lucky to get to know him… #RIP
• Chuck Wicks – Joe Diffie was one of my idols growing up. He will be missed so badly.. he gave us all an amazing soundtrack for the memories we will always have. The only way I know how to pay tribute is to share what he meant to me personally and by singing some of the ones we all love.
• Clay Walker – heartbroken over Joe Diffie dying today… one of the greatest singers and an even better person… all my love and prayers go out to his family.
• Collin Raye – I am deeply saddened at the news of Joe Diffie’s death. He and I were label mates on SONY Epic Records for many years. We worked together a lot over the years. I can honestly say that Joe was one of the truly good guys in our business. A real gentleman, and obviously, one of the greatest country music singers who ever lived. His records, “Home” and “Ships That Don’t Come In” are among my favorite records of all time. I am honored, and humbled, to have known him. May God bless and comfort Joe’s family and welcome him into Eternity. We’ll miss you, Brother.
• Colt Ford – I really stopped in my tracks for the first time when I got the news of Joe passing away. We spoke a week ago and he said, ‘Don’t worry, Colt, I’m gonna be fine.'” He was one of the best country singers I have ever heard, and an even better guy. Rest Easy, Joe.
• Confederate Railroad – Shocked and saddened to hear that our friend, and country music legend, Joe Diffie passed away today, Sunday, March 29 from complications of Coronavirus (COVID-19). We’ve played many shows with Joe and will miss him. Our prayers to his family, friends and fans.
• Crystal Gayle – I am so shocked and saddened that Joe has passed. So tragic. Joe was a great singer and a great songwriter and I loved his records. I always loved the shows we played together and running into Joe at the Opry. I will miss my friend.
• Darryl Worley – I knew this was bound to hit close to home. Today it did. I just heard the news of Joe Diffie’s passing. I am sick in my spirit because I can’t bear the thought of not hearing that voice for a while. He was a dear friend and he understood me and my convictions. Most of all, he accepted me for who I am and I felt the same about him. There’s no filling his shoes and he will be missed by many. I loved him like a brother and I’m thankful that I know where he is. My brother, I look forward to seeing your sweet face again. Please pray for the family and loved ones devastated by this terrible loss.
• Dave Innis (Restless Heart) – First we lose the legendary Jan Howard, and now we’ve lost Joe Diffie. It’s a heartbreaking time for Nashville and Country Music fans worldwide. Restless Heart started out in the business around the same time as Joe, and our paths crossed many times over the years. Joe blended humor and music better than anybody, and he always went out of his way to be kind and supportive. Sending our love and prayers to Joe’s family and friends.
• David Adam Byrnes – I have no words. His music was such a huge influence of mine and he became a friend over the years. Gonna miss you Joe. My thoughts and prayers are with Tara and the family…
• David Ball – VERY sorry to tell you that we have lost @JoeDiffieOnline to Covid-19. Please be safe everyone and don’t take any chances in these times. Joe was a good one. We played a lot of the same radio shows together and charity golf tournaments back in the day. I just saw him on the Country Music Cruise last year and enjoyed our time together. Hard to put loss like this into words. Godspeed Joe!
• David Lee Murphy – My heart’s broken for the Diffie Family. I’ve had the pleasure to know, be a friend of, and enjoy the talent of one of country music’s best singers ever. Love you buddy, you’re gonna be missed more than you’ll ever know.
• Deborah Allen -Without a doubt Joe Diffie was one of the most authentic and greatest voices country music has ever known! A beloved member of the Grand Ole Opry, he was also one of the sweetest people on earth! Joe’s sudden departure is a huge loss and has left all of us broken-hearted and stunned. My prayers are with his family.
• Doug Gray (Marshall Tucker Band) – I’m so sorry to hear about Joe Diffie’s passing. We always met with a smile and we’ll see each other again with a smile
• Doug Stone – What a devastating loss… times like these leave me speechless. Joe and I played more shows together than I can count. My heart goes out to his wife Tara and his children. He will be missed. May God Bless us all.
• Eddie Montgomery – So saddened to hear the news of our dear friend, Joe Diffie. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Joe’s family and loved ones during this time.
• Eli Young Band – Rest In Peace Joe Diffie! You were one of the most iconic and distinct voices on country radio. You will be missed by so many.
• Gary Morris – To all my music family and friends:  Losing Joe to the coronavirus rings that much closer to home. Please do not race back out there to perform and respect social distancing.  I never worked with Joe and I didn’t know him personally. I understand he was a really wonderful man and I know he and his music will be missed dearly.
• Gene Watson – So very sorry to hear about my friend Joe Diffie ‘s passing from the corona virus. A truly nice man and incredible talent. Just 61 – far too young. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.
• Hannah Blaylock – Goodbye to one of our best today.  Thanks @officialjoediffie for raising me up on the best of the best country songs. The day I got to open for you at a Spanish villa in Texas was one of the best days of my life. I was in the back of the audience singing every word & all the sudden I was back in my car w/ my dad on my hour commute to school learning how to sing harmony.   You gave me & so many others endless priceless memories like these.  If y’all are wonderin’ what we r up to this evening we will be around the table singing all our fav Diffie songs.  It’ll take all night & we’re ok with it.
• Heidi Newfield – There are voices that come along and catch our attention…and then there are VOICES that come along and capture our hearts forever more. We lost one of the greatest Country voices of ALL time today!!  Joe Diffie was special in every way! His vocal range was absolutely massive…. like those lungs were unreal. His tone was as rich as the OK dirt he was raised in. His heart was as warm as the comfy front lounge of his bus where he’d proudly serve up his homemade craft brews and shared stories of life, love, and the road. Joe was real, and that resonated with all of us from his peers, to family, to friends, to his millions of fans alike.  Joe made me want to be a better singer without a doubt. I’d sit on the side of the stage and wait for Ships That Don’t Come In or White Lightenin’. Anything that came out of his mouth was stylistic AND mechanically perfect. You usually don’t get to have both qualities, but Joe did.
  I’m humbled and honored to have called him my buddy and my heart breaks for his wife Tara, his beautiful kids, and big extended family as well. “One take Joe” came on in here and made us all feel special for awhile…now, he’s leading the choir of heavenly honky tonk angels! He made one hell of a mark….
• Henry Paul (BlackHawk) – Joe was a simple man with a very kind heart. His aptitude and soulful command of a Country song was unparalleled. The memories of sharing the stage with him are indelible. We all love you Joe, and our heart breaks for you and your loved ones.
• Jaida Dreyer – My heart is broken over the passing of my funny friend and champion, Joe Diffie. Just last week he was diagnosed with COVID-19 and today he is gone due to complications of the virus. I’m gutted. What is this life?
• James Robert Webb – Oklahoma lost a favorite son and the country music world lost an incredible voice yesterday. Joe Diffie and his music were the soundtrack to so many good times, it’s hard to believe he’s gone. He was a real neotraditionalist and his influence is still heard in new artists today. Thanks for the music, Joe.
• Jamie O’Neal – I’m so so sad to hear about JoeDiffieOnline passing away! I loved him and his music RIP my friend you are already missed
• Janie Fricke – I’m so saddened to hear about Joe Diffie. I worked shows with him on many occasions and what a great guy and great talent he was. Many prayers for his family & friends.
• Jason Aldean – Man what a week Kenny Rogers and now Joe Diffie. This guy was an amazing singer and an even greater person. Such a sad week for the country music world. Joe was always so much fun to be around and I will never forget our Panama City show with Tyler Farr and Tracy Lawrence …We will miss u my friend. Thanks for teaching us how to “Diffie”. #1994
• Jeannie Seely – Extremely hard to lose two Opry family members within two days, Jan Howard, and now Joe Diffie.  Joe brought a special energy with his music, not only to radio but to the Grand Ole Opry. He’s always had a distinctive country sound, but updated to fit his generation. His personality matched his music – warm, friendly, energetic and fun. It just always felt good to see him. Everything about Joe Diffie will be missed and my heart goes out to his family, our Opry family and his many fans around the world.
• Jerry Lee Lewis – Rest in peace, Joe Diffie. Country music’s huge loss of my friend, a great singer and songwriter. May God Bless his family and friends.
• Jessi Alexander – The soundtrack of every bonfire, parking lot, tailgate, jukebox, and cassette player back in high school. We’ll miss you, Joe Diffie. A legend gone way too soon. Country music won’t be the same without you.  Rest In Peace. Sending all of my love to his family & loved ones.
• Joe Bonsall (Oak Ridge Boys) – The loss of Joe Diffie was a shock!! I was just processing the news that he was diagnosed with Covid19 when in just a few days he was gone. Yes, his incredible country voice will be missed (I have been listening to him all morning) but man Joe was one of the good guys. He was always nice to everyone and everyone loved him. My prayers today are for his family and for John Prine.
• John Anderson – Joe was a character. A great singer of songs and always had a story or joke to make you smile. I’ll miss crossing paths with him every year on the road, and my heart goes out to his family.
• John Michael Montgomery – Just found out the very sad news about my buddy Joe Diffie passing away from complications of COVID-19.  This is so heartbreaking, I just don’t even know what to say. I will always cherish the shows and conversations I’ve had with him forever.  GOD BLESS his family and loved ones. A sad, sad day for country music. Rest In Peace.
• John Rich – The LEGENDARY #JoeDiffie was an artists artist. His music was honky tonk 101 if you wanted to be the real deal in our business. No one ever sang it better, and no one was ever more down to earth and caring for other singers. We’ll miss you Joe.
• Jon Langston – Rest easy Joe Diffie.. so sad. Prayers go out to his family
• Jordan Davis – Heartbreaking news about the passing of Joe Diffie and the news of John Prine being hospitalized…Praying really hard right now for both families
• Josh Abbott – Here’s hoping they’ll make his headstone a neon, with a stiff drink in his hand. Thank you for the songs Joe Diffie. Rest In Peace. Today sucks
• Josh Gracin – There are no words. A friendship started and ended way to soon. We were just writing together, laughing over dinner, making plans to get the families together more. A true legend, gone way to soon. Joe had a warriors heart and I thought for sure he would beat this virus. I am heartbroken. Please pray for his wife and family at this time.
• Julie Roberts – I am so sad to have learned that @JoeDiffieOnline just passed from COVID19. We were just with him a few months ago so it’s surreal. He was an amazing artist and a great guy. Prayers to his family during this time.
• Keith Urban – Can’t believe the news about Joe Diffie ……. my heart breaks for your family and friends – and fans ……. count me right in there too – you were THE REAL DEAL JOE…
• Kendall Marvel – Anybody out there not taking this shit serious we just lost Joe Diffie to Covid and it breaks my heart and infuriates me that some of you don’t take it serious. Wake the hell up
• Larry Gatlin – Joe Diffie..a GREAT FRIEND..a GREAT MAN…a GREAT SINGER..a GREAT LOSS..
• Larry the Cable Guy – Well this sucks. God love ya buddy. Thanks a ton for the memories and your music. If I was there I’d “prop ya up beside the jukebox.” For years on our tour bus every play list had “a lil Diffie” in it. You’ll be missed Joe.
• Larry Stewart (Restless Heart) – I’m so sad to hear of the passing of a brother in music, Joe Diffie. What a voice! We have worked around each other for decades. Really one of the good guys. I’m so shocked. Thoughts for his family, his team and friends from myself and the entire Restless Heart family!
• LeAnn Rimes – My heart goes out to the family and friends of @JoeDiffieOnline He was a kind soul and his music, a big part of many great childhood memories. He will be greatly missed. #RIPJoeDiffie
• Lee Brice – One the best country singers of all time, timeless songs, & most importantly one of the kindest people I ever knew. Joe, you will live 4ever in my heart, my voice.. my prayers are with your family. I know you are singing w/ the angels now. We love you. See you on the other side.
• Lee Greenwood – Sadly we lose another great country singer this week, my friend Joe Diffie … this time to the coronavirus – hard to believe. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Rest In Peace!
• Lee Roy Parnell – We’re all shocked and saddened to hear the news of my friend Joe Diffie’s passing. Joe and I toured for a year together along with Travis Tritt. Everyday he would come by my bus about noon and we would go to lunch together. He was a warm-hearted, good-natured, fun-loving man with an extraordinary voice. I will miss him.
• Levi Hummon – So incredibly sad! Never got to hang with Joe, but I heard he was a truly good man. Praying for his family tonight. #RIPJoeDiffie
• Lewis Brice – I grew up listening to Joe Diffie. He was a staple in 90’s country music. His voice and music will live on forever. My prayers go out to the Diffie family.
• Linda Davis – I am so saddened to be reading the news of my friend Joe Diffie’s death. His family is in my prayers.  I can’t imagine the sadness and shock they must feel. I told someone a little while ago that this loss is a kick in the gut! The virus may seem like a mystery and even far away to most of us, BUT to Joe’s family it is a very real thief that has stolen their husband and father and brother or sister. This brings it too close to our circle.
• Lucas Hoge – This is truly heartbreaking. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Diffie family. Joe Diffie’s music has impacted so many of our careers. Every time I see a jukebox I will forever see and hear Joe Diffie. He will be forever missed.
• Luke Bryan – Country music lost a legend today. Joe Diffie was one of the greats.
• Mark Chesnutt – I just lost my friend. I love him as a person and one of the GREATEST singers of all time. I’ve known Joe and did a lot of shows with him for thirty years. I will miss him for the rest of my life. I will pay tribute to my buddy at all my shows. I love you Joe Diffie!
• Mark Collie – Such Sad News To hear @JoeDiffieOnline has passed..he was a friend and one of the greatest Country voices. Tammy and I are praying for His family through this difficult time. ..He will be missed..
• Mark Wills – I am deeply saddened by the loss of my friend Joe Diffie. He was by far one of my greatest career influences and I will truly miss the love and kindness he brought to this world. He will forever be loved. My deepest sympathies go out to his beautiful family.
• Marty Raybon (Shenandoah) – Joe Diffie, He was a singers singer. I have been a fan since his first single “HOME” Hit radio. Condolences to the family, He will be missed in our hearts as well.
• Matt Stillwell – So sad to lose such a great great singer and nice person. I had the fortunate opportunity to open for Joe Diffie and he was so gracious and just everything you would want him to be. Rest In Peace Joe and prayers to your family! ‬
• Mike McGuire (Shenandoah) – So sad to hear the news of Joe Diffie’s passing today. He and I were both born on the same day, December 28, 1958. We would always talk about that when we were around each other. Rest in peace, my brother. You will be missed.
• Mo Pitney – Tonight has sure felt heavy, after coming to the end of what has felt like a pretty terrible week. Losing Kenny Rogers, Jan Howard and now Joe Diffie. I never knew Kenny but was such a fan of his singing and artistry. Jan Howard was always the sweetest women in the world to me. I got the opportunity to open up for Joe Diffie several times. To my surprise, he always got me and Evie up on the bus to encourage me to keep making the music that fulfills me, and to make Evie laugh. And now, knowing that Jon Prine is struggling with the virus, it is really hard to see the light in the middle of this. But we know “the Light has shown into the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1 Its hard to be down to just words and prayers. My words and stories don’t mean much, but prayer still means everything. Let’s continue to pray for God’s mercy as we fight against this virus together. We have so much reason to believe He hears us and cares. The Pitney family loves you all! Be safe.
• Naomi Judd – The minute I heard “Pickup Man,” I thought, what a perfect song for him! He was a good ole boy’, all around kinda guy. He was like tv’s Tim Allen from ‘Home Improvement.’ Relatable and kind. Country music lost one of the good guys today.
• Parmalee – Glad we were able to play some shows with Joe. Such a nice man. Proud to say he played my guitar. RIP Joe Diffie
• Phil Vassar – We just lost one of the best singers this town has ever known. My thoughts and prayers are with Joe Diffie‘s family
• Randy Travis – Joe Diffie was the ‘pickup man’ — always had a smile and a story, to cure and encourage. It was my fortunate blessing to come along the same time JD did, in music —so many great memories, and so many times he ‘propped me up.’ The trailer that Bud Hunter hauled all across the country on our tour for years was the one we got from Joe — it had 71 on it, because that was Joe’s golf score, so Bud left it there. I guess he was always with us and always will be! Mary and I send love and prayers to Tara and the family, in this unbearably sad moment, as country music is left with a huge void. Rest easy my friend, shoot 71 every day — til we sing together again. I love you brother.
• Rascal Flatts – How can this be??? Another dear friend & legend gone?!!  Joe Diffie has passed away from Coronavirus. He was an incredible talent, loyal friend & one of the best souls you’d ever want to meet…. God be with us all during this time, RIP….
• Ray Scott – RIP JOE DIFFIE. I have no words..
• Rebecca Lynn Howard – One of the greatest country voices of our time. I’m so sad to hear this news. RIP Joe.
• Rhonda Vincent – The voices in Heaven just keep getting sweeter. So saddened to hear of the passing of Grand Ole Opry Star Joe Diffie. One of Country Music’s greatest voices. The last time I saw Joe was in a Nashville restaurant. I am honored to have sang harmony on his #bluegrass CD. A song titled “Route 5 Box 109”. Our deepest sympathy for Joe’s family. Rest In Peace Joe, you’ve made it “Home.”
• Richard Young (Kentucky Headhunters) – His album, Average Joe, was not a made up record company marketing idea. Joe was common as dirt and he never changed. He always loved it when he and the Kentucky Headhunters got to play together, he always said we made the day fun for him. Here’s to a real Country guy who could sing with the best of them. Peace, Joe.
• Ricky Skaggs – I was saddened to hear that my friend & fellow Grand Ole Opry member Joe Diffie passed away today. Joe was a great singer, songwriter, & entertainer that left his mark in Country Music. His clear voice and unique singing style made him immediately recognizable.
• Rissi Palmer – Sending prayers to John Prine and Joe Diffie’s family. Y’all, please take this seriously and take care of yourself…
• Sammy Kershaw – As far as I’m concerned we lost the best voice in country music today. I have said it for years and years and years. We did a lot of touring together, we became friends and then we became brothers. Gonna miss you Joe. I love you brother. God-bless you and rest in peace. Also God bless and rest in peace Jan Howard and KennyRogers. It’s been a tough week for country music and country music legends. #joediffie #janhoward #kennyrogers
• Sara Evans – I am so sad about Joe Diffie. I always loved working with him and just got to see him and visit with him recently at The Opry. Praying for his family and loved ones.
• Sawyer Brown – So sad to learn that our road brother Joe Diffie passed away. One of the best country singers ever—and a great guy. Heartbreaking loss.
• Scotty McCreery – Always great when you meet someone you’re a huge fan of, and they exceed all of your expectations. Joe was the man. I’ve loved his music since I was a kid, and he will be missed. John Deere Green will be on repeat for awhile.
• Steve Azar – I can’t believe it, I just recently caught up with our friend Joe Diffie on my radio show. Was hoping he would make our Delta Soul this year. What an incredible man, talent, songwriter and one of the greatest country singers ever. Rest In Peace pal, we are deeply saddened by losing you and truly gonna miss you!
• Steve Dorff – Had the great pleasure and honor of Producing a track with this truly great Singer…….What a Voice and what a nice guy…..RIP Joe
• Steve Wariner – I’m heartbroken and in shock just like all of you over this awful news. Joe Diffie possessed one of the most incredible pure country voices on the planet, and he was always so much fun to be around. My prayers are with his family at this sad time. Rest In Peace ol’ pal.
• Suzy Bogguss – Beyond sad that our gentle talented Joe has passed on. I had a helpful cry this afternoon when I played our duet of Merle’s beautiful song “ Sing Me Back Home” . Joe and I came up at the same time singing demos in Nashville and playing out as much as possible. We both lucked out and I remember jumping for joy when he got his record deal. Lucky for all of us because he gave us so many real heartfelt country songs to keep us going even after he’s gone. RIP my dear loving friend.
• T. Graham Brown – Joe Diffie always had a ready smile and something good to say. Without a doubt, he was a great, natural country singer and his many friends and fans are going to really miss him. God Bless and comfort his family at this sad time. Rest In Peace, old friend.
• T.G. Sheppard – So tragic to hear that another great legends voice has gone silent. He was and will remain one of Country music’s great vocalist. It’s truly a sad day for our industry. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Tara and their family.
• Tanya Tucker – Sometimes I hear bad news, and over and over again in that cold empty space, I think if I wait a minute or two, the news will change, but it’s final. Joe Diffie, one of our best singers and my buddy, is gone. We are the same age, so it’s very scary. I will miss his voice, his laughter, his songs. My thoughts go out to his entire family. I’ll love you always Joe and am so grateful you were in my life.
• Taylor Hicks – Joe Diffie was a classic country artist and songwriter. His voice oozed American country tones and he will truly be missed not just in our country, but around the world too.
• Teddy Gentry (Alabama) – Joe was much more than a great country singer. He was a great song guy as well. He also knew how to put on a show. I will miss you, my friend.
• Terri Clark – The angels must have been missing some true country music, because God just brought another legend home.   That it was Covid-19 that claimed the life of Joe Diffie seems surreal, all I know is that our tremendous loss is now heaven’s gain.  Grammy winner, Opry member, one of the best singers to ever hit Nashville ,family man, good old boy and great guy. Losing Joe is heartbreaking for his family and for all of us who had the good fortune to call him friend. To say he will be missed doesn’t seem adequate, but words are starting to fail.  I hope Joe, Kenny Rogers, and Jan Howard are playing a standing cloud only show tonight. And I hope the choirs of angels have what they need for now. We will miss you @officialjoediffie @opry @recordingacademy #joediffie #legendary #90scountry #Home
• Terry McBride – I’m shocked and saddened by the news of Joe Diffie’s passing. I was fortunate to get to know Joe and tour with him in the 90’s. I always enjoyed hearing him hit the big notes on those classic ballads. He was such a strong singer. I recently came across some old footage of us cutting up during a TV taping. He had a wicked sense of humor. This is a big loss for all of us. My condolences go out to his family and friends and all of his fans.
• The Cadillac Three – So sad to hear about Joe Diffie passing & keeping John Prine & his family in our thoughts this evening. #stayhome
• Thompson Square – Our hearts are breaking today. God bless and keep you @officialjoediffie I can’t tell you how many gigs we’ve done in the past, where your songs were a part of the set list. You were truly one of the greatest country singers of our time and will be missed so much. May you Rest In Peace.  Shawna and Keifer
• Tim McGraw – I loved Joe Diffie… His music, his spirit, and his love for music… One of the most influential vocalist of our time in country music. So many great songs… However “Ships That Don’t Come In” always gets me
• Tim Rushlow – I am in shock and so sad over the passing of my long time friend, Joe Diffie. Joe and I go way back to when we both started out in this business. He IS without a doubt one of the finest country singers that has ever sung into a microphone. His pronunciation and country vibes were amazing, but he backed that up with a voice that could belt out a song like a tenor doing a duet with Pavarotti, that’s what made him truly one of the best singers I’ve ever heard.  Joe was so fun and a blast to hang with at all times and he made me laugh. I will miss my friend and salute him by cranking “Ships That Don’t Come In” till I go to sleep tonight. Rest in Heaven brother and sing one when you’re ready, they’re gonna love you!
• Toby Keith – We are feeling it now. Oklahoma boy Joe Diffie has passed away from this virus. My kids grew up around his parents. My prayers will be with his family. A great traditional voice will live on cuz I’m putting his music on now. Here’s a beer to ya, Joe. Go get your reward. -T
• Trace Adkins – Oh my God. One of the all-time GREAT vocalists. Joe Diffie was my friend. RIP, buddy.
• Travis Tritt – I’m so sad that Joe Diffie has passed away due to complications from the Coronavirus. Joe was a good friend and touring partner with me in the 90’s. We had a lot of good times together, both onstage and offstage. This comes as a huge shock to all of us in the country music community who loved Joe and his talent. Deepest condolences to Joe’s family, friends and fans
• Trisha Yearwood -I met Joe Diffie when I moved to Nashville in the mid-80’s. I started getting called to do a lot of session work, demos for publishers and writers who were pitching songs, trying to get them recorded by the A-list artists like Reba McEntire and George Strait.  It’s how I ended up meeting so many great writers, and it’s how I met other up and coming artists that were doing the same thing. It’s how I met Joe.  We’d pass each other in the halls of Sony Publishing, or run into each other at Studio 19 or County Q. More than likely if we saw each other, it was because we were singing a duet together for one of the publishers in town. I loved those sessions. Joe’s voice was always so pure and just…on. He never missed a note. Ever.  Fast forward to both of us getting recording contracts and touring the world. We ran into each other on the road too, and even did a few shows together along the way. I was always a fan, and wasn’t surprised to see him succeed in country music. His voice was always undeniable.  I saw Joe last year at an event at the Grand Ole Opry. We talked for a brief time and exchanged all the pleasantries about life, kids, and the road. We said what so many of us say… ”We should get together one of these days” and both meant it.  You never think the last time you see someone is going to be the last time you see them.  My heart is broken today for Joe’s family and friends, and for all the fans who love his music.  I will miss my friend.  Godspeed.  xoxo
• Tyler Farr – Gonna miss him. My heart is broken as we have lost a friend and one of the best voices in country music. Joe Diffie, you will be missed brother.
• Wade Hayes – I’ve been here thinking about this since I heard the news. I cannot digest it yet. I am in disbelief and so sad I don’t even know what to say, but feel I should say something. Joe was a friend and a musical hero of mine. One of the first tours I ever went on. He was one of the best singers that ever drew a breath and always so nice to me. He will be sorely missed. This is inadequate I know but I’m sincerely stunned.
• William Michael Morgan – Joe diffie passed away due to the corona virus… rest in piece @JoeDiffieOnline country music has lost a legend. #lordiwannagotoheaven #butidontwannagotonight

This is one of my favorite photos of Joe Diffie and me onstage together. This photo hangs in my office to this day. #ripjoediffie I will never forget you! https://t.co/GRxhyEebND

— Travis Tritt (@Travistritt) March 29, 2020

It was just over a week ago that we reported on the loss of Hall of Famer Kenny Rogers and the amazing outpouring of remembrances from his fellow stars. Today, we sadly report the passing of Grand Ole Opry member Jan Howard, who passed away yesterday.  She was the oldest living member of the Opry.  Fellow stars have been issuing their condolences and remembrances across social media.  Here’s what they are saying:

• Bellamy Brothers – Country music lost an incredible lady today. Rest in Peace, Jan Howard. We’re keeping her family, friends, and all of her fans in our prayers.
• Bobby Braddock – Jan Howard was a bestselling singer, Grand Ole Opry star, songwriter, author, but also a successful human being and a beloved friend to many.
• Bobby Tomberlin – Jan was the most honest and strongest person that I’ve ever met. She lived life to the fullest. I was blessed to call her a very good friend for the past 23 years.  She lived and loved Country Music.
• Buddy Cannon – With the passing of our wonderful friend Jan Howard, we have lost one of the very few remaining links connecting the roots of early California country music to the Nashville songwriting gold rush era of the early 1960s. I never had a conversation with Jan that I did not learn things that were important to me. I loved her and I will always treasure her friendship.
• Charlie Daniels – Our dear sweet friend Jan Howard has passed away and Hazel and myself extend our deepest condolences to the family and the many friends, who, like us, loved her and will always remember her fondly. Rest in peace Jan, you will not be forgotten.
• Charlie Monk – Knowing Jan Howard’s music was a blessing but knowing her was a a double dose of blessing.  When she walked into a room or on a stage, she always brought a warm smile and cherry note.  I will miss her talent and her funny stories. One of the real grand ladies of the Grand Ole Opry.
• Chris Janson – Rip Jan Howard my fellow Opry member. You will be greatly missed. Praying for your sweet family.
• Crystal Gayle – I am so saddened that Jan Howard has left us. Jan is one of the legendary artists who paved the way in country music for all of us ladies who followed. She has always been so nice to me and I always loved listening to her stories. We will miss you, Jan.
• Dallas Wayne – Very sad news today. Singer-songwriter Jan Howard, one of the “Grand Ladies of the Grand Ole Opry,” has passed away. She had everything to be admired in a woman… strength, beauty, smarts, talent and heart. She will be missed.
• Darin and Brooke Aldridge – Jan Howard was not only loved for the great artist and years of music she shared with the world, but the fact that she was “REAL”. It broke our hearts to hear the story of her son that died in Vietnam after watching the Ken Burns Country Music Documentary, but makes us happy to know that they’re rejoicing together in Heaven today. You will be greatly missed, Jan.
• Deborah Allen – So sad to hear of the passing of Jan Howard. One of the Grand Ole Opry’s most talented and beautiful ladies! So proud to call her my friend! True grit and grace combined with her amazing vocal talent & stellar songwriting insured her iconic place in country music, a Grand Lady of the Grand Ole Opry.
• Diamond Rio – Jan Howard was always a great friend to us Rio guys. Everytime we saw her at the Opry we were always met with smile and a BIG hug. We held a charity Golf Tournament for 10 yrs and Jan was always one of the first celebrities to participate. We will truly miss her friendship and sweet soul.
• Exile – The Exile family is saddened at the passing of a great lady, a legend, and our friend, Jan Howard. Go rest high dear friend.
• Janie Fricke – I had a chance to work with Jan Howard over the past few years donating our time and music for the Bluebonnet Youth Ranch fundraiser in Victoria, Texas. We all became close friends and I enjoyed her so much. This is such sad news about such a great lady.
• Jeannie Seely – So sorry to lose my friend and Opry sister Jan Howard. She was one of the first friends I met on my first trip to Nashville in 1963. We shared many great times and got through some rough ones. And right up to the end she flashed that million dollar smile. I’m sad she’s gone but I’m glad she didn’t linger and suffer. The first memory that came to my mind today was one time she called and when I asked her what she’d been doing, she said well I just got through riding an elephant! Jan always said ‘Life is not a rhearsal, this is it, make the most of it.’ She made me promise her that I would put her cell phone in her casket just in case! Her sense of humor was like no other. She’s already missed.
• Joe Bonsall (Oak Ridge Boys) – So sad to lose two very special legends as well as the Opry family. Jan Howard was always such a feisty woman who took her talents to levels that even she never could have imagined. A great lady who will be missed by all.
• Julie Fudge & The Patsy Cline Family – We are sad to say so long to Jan Howard. She was a friend of our family for many years and she will be missed. A sweet, strong woman that I am so very glad to have known. Thank you for the memories Jan!
• Mark Wills – Saddened to hear of the passing of our matriarch Jan Howard who was the longest living member of the Opry and will be greatly missed. Rest In Peace Jan.
• Ron Harmon – Jan’s wonderful contributions to country music not only included her music, but also her best-selling autobiography “Sunshine and Shadow.” There’s no more shadow in Jan’s life now. She’s walking in total sunshine, and I’m sure she’s hugging her two sons and her country music friends. It’s hard losing a special friend, but if you miss them it means you were lucky you had that special person in your life. And Jan was certainly a special person. She left this world peacefully, without suffering or pain, and without contracting this terrible virus, so that is comforting. And I know she was ready to go home. A sunset on Earth is a sunrise in Heaven.
• Rosanne Cash – Jan was sweet as honey and tough as nails. When I was at Vanderbilt in 1976, she invited me to stay with her during final exams so I could be close to campus. She helped me study and she woke me up every morning and made breakfast for me. She was always incredibly generous and kind to me. I hadn’t seen her in decades, but I got a message last December that she wanted to see me. I went to visit her and she told me stories about the past, about my dad, and about her life. I’m so grateful we had that last conversation and I’m so grateful I could call her a friend.
• Steve Wariner – Sure going to miss my sweet Jan Howard. What a special lady. I’ll really miss her.
• T. Graham Brown – Jan Howard was a great golf partner and friend. She was rare and feisty! The last time I talked to her was at church when she came to hear me sing. We will all miss her very much! Prayers for her family and friends.
• Trisha Yearwood – As a female singer in country music, I am indebted to Jan Howard for helping pave the way for all the “girl singers”. Thank you for your friendship and your kindness. We will all miss you dearly. xoxo Trisha

This lady was a straighter shooter. Lucky to have played in celebrity golf tournaments with her w/dinners & long visits.Loved sharing @opry dressing room.She was a real sizzler, who could zing you; but also surround you w/her love & joy. RIP Jan Howard 1929-2020 #JanHoward #Opry pic.twitter.com/fjkRygRYXa

— Rhonda Vincent (@RhondaVincent13) March 29, 2020