Lewis Brice | Hometown Country Music

Music has lost another great talent. Here is the press release that we received this morning breaking the news of the passing of Jerry Lee Lewis. We have added some quotes below the press release from his peers that we’ve found via social media and from other PR firms.

Somewhere in the world, in a mean little honky-tonk or big music hall or church basement rec room, someone is playing a Jerry Lee Lewis song. Wherever there is a piano, someone is shouting…

You shake my nerves and you rattle my brain
Too much love drives a man insane…

“But they won’t play it like the Killer,” Lewis liked to say, as if he needed to make sure the whole world was hearing him right, hearing the pounding genius of it, in songs like “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” “Breathless” and “Great Balls of Fire.”
“‘Cause,” he liked to say, “ain’t but one of me.”

You broke my will
But what a thrill…

Lewis, perhaps the last true, great icon of the birth of rock ‘n’ roll, whose marriage of blues, gospel, country, honky-tonk and raw, pounding stage performances so threatened a young Elvis Presley that it made him cry, has died.

He was there at the beginning, with Elvis, Johnny Cash, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Carl Perkins, Fats Domino, Buddy Holly, and the rest, and watched them fade away one by one till it was him alone to bear witness, and sing of the birth of rock ‘n’ roll.

“Who would have thought,” he said, near the end of his days, “it would be me?”

Goodness gracious, great balls of fire!

He suffered through the last years of his life from various illnesses and injuries that, his physicians have often said, should have taken him decades ago; he had abused his body so thoroughly as a young man he was given little chance of lasting through middle age, let alone old age.

“He is ready to leave,” his wife Judith said, just before his death.

Lewis, who performed everything from “Over the Rainbow” to Al Jolson, who played the Opry and the Apollo and even Shakespeare, was 87 years old.

Some music historians have wondered if Lewis, regarded by his fans and many music historians as rock’s first, great wild man, might be indestructible; his obituary has been written, re-written, then shelved, gathering dust for a day that seemed inevitable, but seemed to never come. He defied death in his old age just as he shrugged off the hard-driving, self-destructive lifestyle of his younger years, to play his music to a worldwide audience across seven decades, decorate the walls of his home with Grammys and gold records, and spawn a million outrageous stories — most of them true.
Once, when asked by a biographer: “Is it true that…”

“Yeah,” interrupted Lewis, without waiting to hear the particulars, “it probably was.”

His beginnings sounded like myth. His father, Elmo, and mother, Mamie, mortgaged their farm to buy him a piano, after he climbed onto a piano bench and, without ever having touched a keyboard before, began to play. His nickname, Killer, had nothing to do with his playing, but came from a schoolroom fight in Ferriday when he tried to choke a grown man with his own necktie; still, it fit the man, the musician to come, but there was more to him than a barroom piano pounder who sometimes kept a pistol in his pants.

Musicians and music journalists called him a true virtuoso, whose music was so rich and complex that some of them swore there were two pianos on stage instead of one. He played honky-tonk and blues across the same keyboard in the same instant, could play melody with both hands. He sang rockabilly before he knew it had a name, sang blues, gospel and country in the same set and sometimes the same breath, to become No. 24 on Rolling Stone’s 100 Greatest Artists of All Time. Sam Phillips, who launched the careers of Elvis and Lewis at Sun Records in Memphis, called Lewis the most talented person he had ever seen. A talent that made him one of the very few to be inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s first class in 1986 and, most recently this past week, at long last, into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

As Lewis stacked hits on the charts in ’57 and Elvis received his draft notice, the reigning king of rock ‘n’ roll drove to Sun Records in tears, to tell Lewis: “You can have it.”

But if Jerry Lee’s life was a comet that streaked across the sky of American music, it was also a thing that scorched him inside and out, and so many of the people around him.

Judith, his seventh wife, was by his side when he passed away at his home in Desoto County, Mississippi, south of Memphis. He told her, in his final days, that he welcomed the hereafter, and that he was not afraid.

Born into the Assembly of God church in his hometown of Ferriday, Louisiana, he never stopped believing, even when his lifestyle made the specter of hell seem closer. His greatest fear, that he would be condemned to a lake of fire for playing what many in his Pentecostal faith called “the devil’s music,” haunted him. He shared his fear with Elvis, who begged him to never mention it again. Lewis thought Elvis, also a Pentecostal, was the one person who might understand, but he died in ’77, leaving Lewis to wonder, alone.

He had prayed every day across his long life for forgiveness, and for salvation. His was a church that believed in miracles; why, he sometimes wondered, should he not be one of them? He found peace near the end of his life in a simple idea: that a music that brought such joy to so many could only come from God, “and the devil,” he said, “didn’t have nothin’ to do with it.”

“He said he was ready to be with Jesus,” said Judith.

His last album was a gospel record with his cousin, lifetime televangelist Jimmy Swaggart, who had preached against his music when they were younger. In Jerry Lee’s final months, they took turns at the keyboard, singing songs they learned as children: “Old Rugged Cross” and “Lily of the Valley” and “In the Garden.” Lewis, though his voice and body were weakened by his injury and a recent stroke, seemed happy, content.

Much of his life, Lewis had seemed determined to leave the world in the great fire he sang about. He set pianos ablaze, busted hecklers in the head with the butt-end of his microphone stand and rammed the gates of Graceland with his Rolls Royce. He shot holes in the wall of his Memphis office with a .38 revolver, shot his bass player in the chest, “by accident,” with a .357. His life, at different times, was a blur of high-speed chases and Crown Royal. The DEA met his planes on the runway. Fortunes came and went; all the wild rock musicians who came after him, he said, were mostly amateurs. Keith Richards tried to toss up a bottle of Crown Royal and catch it by the neck, like him, “but he never did it right … wasted a bunch of good liquor.”

But if you asked him, in his waning years, what he hoped people would say about him, he had a simple answer.
“You can tell ’em I played the piano and sang rock ‘n’ roll.”

His career, like his body, seemed doomed a dozen times.

After soaring to the top of the charts in ’57 with songs like “Shakin'” and “High School Confidential,” he was castigated in the press for his marriage to his 13-year-old cousin, Myra. His rock’n’ roll star seemed to burn out even as it began to rise, and after a few big hits in the early 1960s his career seemed to be over. He responded by loading two cars with instruments and musicians and hitting the road, to play some big rooms, still, but also every honky-tonk and beer joint that would pay him to perform. He fought his way out of beer joints in Iowa, then drove all night and all day to another town and another show.

Sometimes he gave them magic and sometimes, if the mood was on him, he gave them less, but in his old age he swore he gave them the magic all the time. In ’64, record producers taped his show at a Hamburg, Germany, nightclub and made what would become music history. Live at the Star Club would be regarded as one the rawest, wildest, and greatest live albums of all time.

Then, in a twist that surprised many of his rock fans, Jerry Lee Lewis went country. “Another Place, Another Time,” was just the beginning of a string of soulful country chart-toppers that made him rich and famous all over again. He had more than 30 songs reach Billboard’s Top 10, including “To Make Love Sweeter for You” and a haunting “Would You Take Another Chance on Me.” It seemed only natural to Jerry Lee. He had always believed that Hank Williams hung the moon.

In this new stardom he finally played the Grand Ole Opry, the organization that had once snubbed him, and ignored the two-song protocol to play what and for long as he pleased, even playing through the commercials. Then, in perhaps the oddest twist of his musical career, he was cast as Shakespeare’s sinister Iago in a musical production in Los Angeles; he was a natural.

Once again, he flew around the world, sometimes on his own plane, and once again his lifestyle made almost as many headlines as his music. Tragedy followed him; he buried two sons. His health began to fail, marriages failed, but somehow he always rallied, always kept playing, for big paydays, or for free in a Memphis nightclub, living the life he sang about in his songs.

In 2006, his Last Man Standing album sold a million copies, his best-selling album of his long career. He followed that with another success, Mean Ol’ Man. You could hear the ghosts of the old honky-tonks in them, as if Jerry Lee Lewis had, truly, found a way to stop time. He did a duet with Springsteen.

His Lifetime Achievement Grammy was a kind of crowning achievement, and he appeared at Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame shows to accept his due and to school the whippersnappers on how it was done.

In 2012, when he was 76, he fell in love and married Judith, and they lived quietly – quietly for Jerry Lee Lewis – in northern Mississippi, though Lewis continued to do shows here in the U.S. and abroad. That year they took a trip to Ferriday to visit the family cemetery, and to drive across the bridge to Natchez where, as a boy, Jerry Lee used to dangle over the girders high above the brown water of the Mississippi and the passing boats below. The other boys begged him to get down, but he just hung there, grinning, till they were in tears. When asked if he was scared, a lifetime later, he just looked surprised. The Killer didn’t get scared. But looking down at the river as an old man, he said he might have been crazy.

Later, they drove past the church where he beat the piano to pieces with his cousins Swaggart and Mickey Gilley, who would go on to country music stardom, pounding a little blues and honky-tonk into the hymns they were supposed to be practicing.

Just across town from the tiny church had once stood the other temple of his musical education, a blues joint called Haney’s Big House, where some of the biggest acts in the country came to play. As a little boy, he snuck in the door and hid under the tables to hear rolling blues piano and wicked guitar. And somewhere in between it all, between the hymnals and the beer joints, between Hank Williams and Ray Charles, he found something that was his alone. It was always a waste of breath to ask if he had any regrets.

He had a million, and he had none. It all just depended on the song that was running through his head at the time.

“I’ve had an interesting life,” he said, in his 2014 biography, “haven’t I?”

Written by Rick Bragg

Here is what the music industry is saying about his loss.

Crystal Gayle – It’s so sad to hear that Jerry Lee Lewis has passed. I’ve loved him since I first met and worked with him in the early 1970s. He was definitely one of a kind as an artist and person.
David Frizzell – I first met Jerry Lee Lewis with my brother Lefty in the late 50’s on a TV set they were filming and got to hear him sing “Great Balls Of Fire”… then years later when I was recording in California in the early ’80s (on a night off) we went to The Palamino Club to see Jerry’s show (that is the night me and my wife Jo met) and got to visit with him briefly. Over the next few years, we got to do a lot of shows together. We were so proud he was just inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. ‘Say Hello to Heaven’ Jerry Lee
Dennis Quaid – Jerry Lee was a Christian, an American icon and the greatest piano player in the world. People will be listening to ‘Great Balls of Fire’ and ‘Whole Lot of Shakin” 500 years from now. I will miss him. God bless you Jerry Lee.
Don McLean – Jerry Lee at the beginning of a session put his gun on the piano. Silence. They do the session…The next day the musicians come to the session and all bring their guns. That was Jerry Lee.
Elton John – Without Jerry Lee Lewis, I wouldn’t have become who I am today. He was groundbreaking and exciting, and he pulverized the piano. A brilliant singer too. Thank you for your trailblazing inspiration and all the rock ‘n’ roll memories.
Gene Watson – In my opinion Jerry Lee Lewis had one of the truest most recognizable voices in the business! (No flats or sharps) original in every way!!! I don’t think we will ever have another Jerry Lee…The Killer.
Heath Wright (Ricochet) – Today music lost one of its icons. Watching the Killer on stage was like watching a master class on how to entertain an audience. No one could follow him and no one ever will!
Jacob Bryant – I remember growing up watching Jerry Lee Lewis movies and always thought he was such a bad ass piano player. A truly legendary rock and roll icon – may he Rest In Peace.
Jamie O’Neal – Jerry Lee Lewis was one of the real founders of rock & roll. No one could touch ‘the killer’ on the keys! And he could sing country with the best of ’em. RIP Mr. Lewis. I know Heaven’s got a whole lotta shakin’ goin’ on.
Janie Fricke – The image and influence of Jerry Lee Lewis is an iconic memory we will always have. As a musician/singer I loved his energy and style. He was the greatest!
Joe Bonsall (Oak Ridge Boys) – Jerry Lee Lewis has passed … REST EASY KILLER you were one of a kind…
Kelly Lang – One of my favorite days was when we spent time in the studio with Jerry Lee watching he and my husband T.G. Sheppard sing a song that we wrote for him, (along with Bobby Tomberlin) called “The Killer.” He was a bit late arriving, which added to the anticipation, but when he did arrive, you knew you were in the presence of greatness. He was so amazing and bigger than life. There will never be another like him and he will truly be missed.
Lacy J. Dalton – Jerry Lee was very much like Rod Stewart is – when he stepped on that stage to perform, he OWNED it! He will be missed.
Lewis Brice – What a foundation Jerry Lee Lewis laid for rock ‘n’ roll to build on and what an influence he made on so many artists! Thank you, Jerry Lee Lewis for your passion in music!
Phil Vassar – The first time I saw Jerry Lee Lewis play and literally light his piano on fire I thought, ‘That’s what I want to do!’ He proved that not all piano players are balladeers and that’s what I love and will always remember about him. He was a huge inspiration to me and so many musicians across genres. May he rest in peace.
Rusty Golden – Everyone who knows about me knows that my #1 musical influence is Elton John. Well, Elton learned how to play rock and roll piano by listening to Jerry Lee Lewis, making him (unbeknownst to me) one of MY influences. He showed the world that you didn’t have to sit still when the spirit moved and could kick aside the piano stool, stand up and go wild during a song. Or stay seated and use his right foot on the keyboard. I’m grateful that I had the chance to meet both of them and say thanks for the music
Sam Moore – Last time I saw Jerry was at The Diamond Festival in Belgium where we were both being honored. Jerry was in rare form. He made a big footprint in the music business and he will definitely be remembered and missed.
Steve Azar – Blessed & most certainly honored to of gotten to know one of our greats, the world is gonna miss you. Heaven is rocking tonight
T. Graham Brown – I went to the Jerry Lee Lewis school of singing. His style was one of my biggest influences. What can I say that hasn’t already been said? I’ll really miss that man. He was a pounder supreme and sublime. As he used to say, “Think about it!” Condolences to his survivors. RIP Daddy-O!!
T.G. Sheppard – I’m deeply saddened to hear that my friend and one of the world’s greatest talents Jerry Lee Lewis has left for home. I was privileged and blessed to have known him. Doing concerts and singing with him on records were moments I’ll cherish forever. The Million Dollar Quartet has now been assembled together once again in heaven and I am sure God’s going to love hearing them sing. R.I.P. my friend.
Taylor Hicks – I performed with Jerry Lee, and one night after the show, he told me that ‘his left hand was rock and roll and his right hand was boogie woogie!’ What a musical legend. He will be missed.
The Bellamy Brothers – We just heard Jerry Lee Lewis passed away today. We have so many memories of touring the world together, Sweden, Spain, U.K., pretty much the whole European Contincent. We pray the ‘Killer’ will Rest In Peace now. We are pretty sure there will never be another one like him.
Tim Atwood – I grew up listening to Jerry Lee Lewis. You hear his style of playing piano heavily incorporated into my own style of playing piano. I loved the way he moved on stage, and I love his shenanigans. He was a true entertainer, and I am so thankful he was still alive to accept and understand that he made it all the way to the Country Music Hall of Fame. It is where he belongs.

The post Remembering Jerry Lee Lewis first appeared on Hometown Country Music.

Remembering Loretta Lynn

admin — Tue, 04 Oct 2022 15:43:23 +0000

Photo Credit: Russ Harrington

We have received one of the most dreaded press releases a country music outlet such as ourselves could receive. Loretta Lynn has passed away.

Country superstar Loretta Lynn passed peacefully in her sleep early this morning, Tuesday, October 4, at her home in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee. Lynn was 90.

Over the course of her 60-year career, the famous native of Butcher Hollow, Ky. amassed a staggering 51 Top 10 hits, garnered every accolade available in music from GRAMMY awards to induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, and broke down barriers for women everywhere with songs like “Don’t Come Home a Drinkin’ (With Lovin’ on Your Mind),” “Fist City” and “Coal Miner’s Daughter.”

Thanks to the Oscar-winning 1980 film Coal Miner’s Daughter starring Sissy Spacek, Lynn’s story and songs were brought to an even wider audience, amplifying her impact on several generations of songwriters and artists in various genres including Jack White, with whom Lynn made the GRAMMY-winning 2004 album Van Lear Rose.

Throughout her 80s, Loretta continued to write new songs and, in 2016, returned to the charts with the GRAMMY-nominated Full Circle, the first in a series of critically acclaimed albums produced by her daughter, Patsy Lynn Russell, and John Carter Cash at Cash Cabin Studio in Hendersonville, Tenn. She followed up with the seasonal classic White Christmas Blue (2016) and 2018’s GRAMMY-nominated Wouldn’t It Be Great, a combination of newly written songs and fresh interpretations of her catalog. In 2021, the American music icon released Still Woman Enough, a celebration of women in country music; her 50th studio album (not including her ten studio duet collaborations with Conway Twitty), Still Woman Enough featured a title track co-written with Patsy Lynn Russell and a deeply emotional “Coal Miner’s Daughter Recitation,” commemorating the 50th anniversary of the release of Lynn’s signature song (October 5, 1970) and album (January 4, 1971).

Lynn’s music and achievements were repeatedly recognized by all of the major awards bodies. She joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1962, won four GRAMMY awards, seven American Music Awards and eight Country Music Association awards. She was the first woman to win the Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music awards for Entertainer of the Year. She was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1988, the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2008, and was awarded the Kennedy Center Honors in 2003 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013. She sold over 45 million albums worldwide.

Lynn was pre-deceased by her husband of 48 years Oliver Vanetta “Doolittle” Lynn, her daughter Betty Sue Lynn and son Jack Benny Lynn. She is survived by her daughters Patsy Lynn Russell, Peggy Lynn, Clara (Cissie) Marie Lynn and her son Ernest Ray Lynn as well as grandchildren Lori Lynn Smith, Ethan Lyell, Elizabeth Braun, Tayla Lynn, Jack Lynn, Ernest Ray Lynn Jr., Katherine Condya, Alexandria Lynn, Jasyntha Connelly, Megan Horkins, Anthony Brutto, Jason Lynn, Wesley Lynn, Levi Lynn, Emmy Rose Russell, David Russell, Lucca Marchetti and step grandchildren David Greer, Jennafer Russell, Melody Russell and Natalie Rapp, and her great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to the Loretta Lynn Foundation. Information about a memorial service/celebration of life will be made available at a later date. For more information, visit LorettaLynn.com.

“Our precious mom, Loretta Lynn, passed away peacefully this morning, October 4th, in her sleep at home at her beloved ranch in Hurricane Mills.” – The family of Loretta Lynn

The family has asked for privacy during this time, as they grieve. An announcement regarding a memorial will be forthcoming in a public announcement.

Here is what some of her peers are saying about her loss.

Aaron Lewis – Loretta was an icon, both for what’s just and right, and what’s pure, in country music and life. She will be missed and her impact felt for generations.
Aaron Tippin – I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Loretta Lynn. I have always been a huge fan of her music and was so fortunate to get the opportunity to sing a duet with her on a TV special. That was a dream come true for me. The world has lost a legend and a beautiful person. Prayers to her family, friends and fans.
Alan Jackson – Sweet @LorettaLynn, there will never be another Honky Tonk girl like you. I’m gonna miss you.
Anita Cochran – God is now holding you Miss @LorettaLynn. My heart is broken. My musical hero, 1st musical influence, only fan club I ever wrote to. Your music molded my career & so many. I learned so much from you. So honored to have called you my friend and that you even knew my name.
Ashley McBryde – It was the honor of my career to play your guitar and sing one of your songs. Your inspiration will live on through all of us girls. We promise. Thank you for the guidance. And thank you for the music. Rest now Miss Loretta.
Barbara Mandrell – Loretta Lynn contributed enormously to the world of Country Music. All of us adored and loved her.
Bellamy Brothers – We toured a lot with @LorettaLynn in the 1980s. She and Conway Twitty recorded our song (‘Spiders and Snakes’) as a duet which is still one of our favorite career highlights. She was Country Music pure and simple. She’s irreplaceable and a complete original. Our hearts go out to her family. The Coal Miner’s Daughter is Heaven’s newest angel.
Big & Rich – Rest In Peace Loretta Lynn
Bill Anderson – We are all better off because @LorettaLynn walked among us..
Billy Dean – Loretta Lynn, no doubt, was country music royalty. The absolute queen. But, to me, she was my bestest girl!
Billy Ray Cyrus – Celebrating the life of Loretta Lynn. One of my highest honors was being joined by her and George Jones on a song I wrote called “Country Music Has The Blues”. She handed me this wonderful gift on that day.
Blake Shelton – Terrible news about Loretta Lynn passing away… Prayers to her family.
Bobby Bare – Loretta has been an old friend of mine for a long, long time. We’re both from Appalachia – same part of the country. Both started off the same way, dirt poor and worked our way into it. She was a good friend, I’d been calling to check on her lately. When I was 19 and trying to be a songwriter out on the West Coast, she was the first person to cut one of my songs… on the last show we played together at the Johnny Cash Festival in Arkansas in 2014 or ’15 we sang God Bless America Again together one last time – I love her and I will miss her dearly.
Bobby Tomberlin – I saw Loretta and Conway when I was just a kid in Montgomery, Alabama. I never dreamed that one day I would write a song with her. I was honored to sing a Conway/Loretta duet with her back in 2016 at her July 4th show at her ranch. It felt like I was singing with a queen. I guess I was. The world just isn’t the same when you lose someone like Loretta.
Brandy Clark – My heart is so heavy today. Heaven gained an angel and we lost a coal miner’s daughter. May @LorettaLynn’s music and legacy live forever.
Brenda Lee – I have lost one of my dearest friends and the world has lost a true treasure.
Bret Michaels – My heart is beyond heavy today as I have just learned of the passing of my good friend Loretta Lynn. I saw her a few weeks ago, & we sang some songs together. She was an incredible person, an incredible human being & an incredible talent who forged the way for women in the entertainment industry. I just spent time on her ranch, visiting with her & family. Singing songs & riding around on the ATVs & dirt bikes. One of the best days of my life was Thanksgiving when she sang Every Rose Has Its Thorn in the studio with me. She will forever be loved & missed.
Bri Bagwell – Man, super sad day today. Much love to Loretta’s family. The kind of songs that she wrote truly inspired so many of us, and her phrasing/pronunciation always reminds me of how my Granny talked. She was a game changer. We’ll always sing your songs, Loretta.
Bryan White – When I was 12 I saw Loretta Lynn at Doc’s in my hometown of Oklahoma City. Because my Mom was in the opening band my brother and I got to go see the show. It was my first concert ever. In the picture to the left I’m handing her a rose. I was super nervous. When Loretta entered the room it was the first time I saw the power of a superstar. I’ll never forget the energy she brought and the excitement that filled that place. The building literally erupted. It had a profound impact on my life. It changed my life. I’ve always told people it was the show that set me on fire. Loretta will always be one of my heroes. She was a pioneer. An original. A real artist in every sense of the word. Her music was about real life and real issues. And she made her music on her terms. “The Coal Miner’s Daughter” biopic is the greatest autobiographical movie ever done. I’ve seen it a million times. I can recite the whole thing. Loretta always told me “I love you” everytime I got to be around her. And I was so blessed to know her. Never thought in a million years I’d get to meet her and be around her. One of the sweetest ladies I’ve ever met. Fly high sweet Loretta. I love you too…
Callista Clark – What an amazing legacy. Thank you @lorettalynn for paving the path for all of us women in country music. Sending love and prayers to her family and friends.
Carly Pearce – She showed us all how to unapologetically tell the truth. One of the greatest there ever will be. I’ll be singing “Dear Miss Loretta” with a little extra love tonight at the @opry. Now she really is a Honky Tonk Angel #RIP
Carrie Underwood – The first time I met Loretta Lynn was at the Grand Ole Opry at beginning of my career. I was chatting in the corner with another artist and someone walked behind me and smacked me on the rear end! I turned around and there she was…in a big sparkly dress…laughing as she continued to walk down the hall at what she had just done…This is one of my most favorite stories to tell. I think it sums up her personality pretty well. She was a cantankerous little pistol…friendly and sweet…never afraid to be herself and speak her mind. Over the years, I have had the honor of singing for her…and also with her…in some of the most special moments of my career.
She is irreplaceable. She will be incredibly missed…but her legacy lives on in those of us whom she has influenced. I am truly grateful to have known such an amazing woman and artist. Thank you, Loretta, for showing us how it’s done. May you Rest In Peace in the arms of Jesus and add your heavenly voice to the angel choir. Love you!
Caylee Hammack – Today hurts more than most days. Loretta is the reason I am in country music. Her, Patsy, Cash. The holy country music trinity of my childhood.
Charlie Daniels Jr. – Mom and I are saddened to hear about the loss of a true legend, @LorettaLynn. When dad passed, she said Country would never be the same without dad. It will definitely not be the same without the coal miner’s daughter. Rest in peace.
Chely Wright – Dear Loretta, I awoke this morning at 4:00am, thinking about you. I grabbed my phone and pulled up photos of us together over the years. I felt a warmth come over me and a sense of peace. Thank you for your songs, for your mentorship, for your friendship and for your love.
Chris Janson – Really a rough day for Country Music. Very sorry to hear about the passing of Loretta Lynn. Will never forget that last voicemail from Loretta. The sun will surely set sweeter over the Duck River tonight. Rest In Peace, to the Greatest Of All Time.
Clint Black – Nothing describes what it’s like to meet your musical heroes. Loretta Lynn was in a class all her own. Now the coal miner embraces his daughter again, as “One’s on the Way” home.
Collin Raye – I am very saddened today to learn of Loretta Lynn’s passing. Though she was thankfully on this Earth for a lengthy life, nonetheless, it is difficult to hear that we have lost yet another All Time Great. Her timeless songs, her unmistakable voice, and her amazing, legendary story will forever be embedded on the history of Country Music, which she greatly helped to establish and solidify to the world. We don’t have many of them left. Let us all celebrate the life and memories of a Coal Miner’s Daughter. Rest in Peace, Loretta.
Crystal Gayle – The world lost a legend. We lost a sister. Love you Loretta
Dallas Remington – Loretta Lynn was hands down one of my biggest inspirations, not only in music, but in my life. When I was nine years old, my momma taught me the lyrics to ‘Coal Miner’s Daughter,’ and it forever changed my life. It became the song that got me on my first professional stage, and was the song that taught me how music can heal and help people through any situation. When I was 10, I was performing at a long-term care facility where I met a real-life coal miner’s daughter who was living with Alzheimer’s. She didn’t remember anything about her life, but when I sang ‘Coal Miner’s Daughter,’ she remembered her childhood, her parents and siblings, and the amazing life she had lived. All of that came back to her because of the truth and powerful lyrics Mrs. Loretta Lynn wrote into her songs. Mrs. Loretta taught me the power of music, and through her music, she taught me to stay true to myself, and showed me the woman I want to be. I’ve always said my best friends growing up were Loretta Lynn and Patsy Cline, because they were there for me when it felt like no one else was. I’m so heartbroken to hear of Mrs. Loretta’s passing, but I know she is with Patsy and Doo. My heart goes out to all of her family, friends and everyone who loved her. She will forever be one of the best and greatest women who ever lived. Thank you for the songs Mrs. Loretta, and thank you for being the reason I love music. You will always be the greatest country artist ever in my book.
Darius Rucker – She was an iconic legend and did things the way she wanted. I am so bless to call her friend. I miss u already Loretta. Love u. And rest now u angel.
Darryl Worley – My heart sank when I heard of Ms. Loretta’s passing. I don’t know that I’ve ever met a sweeter soul. She was so kind to my family and we all loved her beyond words. Her gift was raw and real, and no one will ever match her. She was genuine in every sense of the word. The angels will be in awe of her voice. We are all saddened by the news and praying for the family. This is a great loss to the music community and she will be missed in a big way.
David Ball – Oh no, we have lost Loretta Lynn. That Loretta sure was a good one. Some great photos in this article… nytimes.com/…/music/lore #riploretta #coalminersdaughter
Deborah Allen – Country Music will never be the same without our beloved Loretta Lynn. I’m so grateful that I got to know her and call her my friend. When she and Conway recorded one of my songs, it was the thrill of a lifetime. Loretta lived a life of pure, raw honesty and it came through in all of her great songs which was a beautiful gift she gave to all of us and one that will live on forever. My heart and prayers are with Loretta’s family at this time of deep loss. Rest in peace, Loretta. We love you.
Diamond Rio – GOD Bless real Country Music! Thanks Loretta, RIP
Dolly Parton – So sorry to hear about my sister, friend Loretta. We’ve been like sisters all the years we’ve been in Nashville and she was a wonderful human being, wonderful talent, had millions of fans and I’m one of them. I miss her dearly as we all will. May she rest in peace.
Doug Gray (Marshall Tucker Band) – As one of God’s great gifts to us makes her way to the Promised Land, may we all rejoice in knowing we will join her someday.
Dustin Collins – I’m very sad to see another country music legend gone. I met Loretta, and she was a really sweet, nice lady that always cared about country music.
Eddie Montgomery – Wow we lost another great legend.. “ icon” this morning I can remember as a little kid mom singing Loretta songs and mom and dad singing her and Conway songs in the bars…now that’s country and she was as real as it gets… glad I got to know her as a friend … love her!
Exile – A monumental mold has been broken. We’re so lucky to have had such a unique talent in our lifetime. Loretta lived the American dream, and gave back with country-style humility and grace.
Flatland Cavalry – RIP to the Legend @LorettaLynn
Gary LeVox – I just heard the news about @LorettaLynn. So much sadness but what a legacy she is leaving behind. rip my friend!
Gene Watson – Loretta Lynn’s friendship has meant so much to me through the years. When I first started my career, I didn’t have a band, I didn’t have a bus and barely had a song of my own to sing. Loretta and Conway invited me to open their tour and they allowed me to use their bands. I would follow behind their tour buses, driving my own car hundreds of miles between shows. Loretta saw that I was exhausted and invited me to ride the rest of the tour on her bus. She was a sweet, down-to-earth person with a heart of gold. She passed along great advice on life as well as her knowledge of the music business. I’ll never forget her kindness to me. I send my deepest sympathies to her wonderful family and also to all her fans for the loss of this wonderful woman, the legendary Queen of Country Music.
George Strait – We’re sure going to miss @LorettaLynn. What an amazing woman and so unbelievably talented. Very thankful she shared that with all of us fans. God bless all of the family. Rest in Peace Loretta. See you down the road.
Grand Ole Opry – 60 years of Opry membership, countless memories, songs and stories. Our Opry family turns to music when words fail. Thank you for all you’ve given to the Opry, @LorettaLynn. We love you
Gretchen Wilson – Loretta Lynn was the living, breathing description of what it meant to be a woman of country music. Sadly, and appropriately… she takes it with her. No one will ever be more.
Hannah Blaylock – Thank you @LorettaLynn for being a trailblazer for women in Country Music. Rest easy Queen
Heidi Newfield – This is a day I’ll never forget! Ms. Loretta passed through those pearly gates on my Birthday! How bittersweet. She was my biggest influence, mentor, and dear friend. She was loved and adored by many, but she’ll always be extra special to me….that girl from Butcher Holler sure done good and lived a life to be admired! I’ll miss you Loretta Lynn, this world won’t be the same without you in it, but you sure left a mighty big footprint!
Henry Paul (BlackHawk) – Loretta Lynn’s story reads like a verse from the song ‘Only in America’. Her rags to riches story was punctuated with talent, honesty, and integrity. With her goes an entire generation of country greats from a much simpler time.
Ingrid Andress – there are not enough words to thank you @LorettaLynn for making a path for women in country to ride on. your songs and stories will be with us forever. Rest in peace.
Jacob Bryant – My mom and I used to watch ‘Coal Miners Daughter’ probably 15-20 times a year at the very least. This is a huge loss to country music and I just want to thank Loretta for all the years she blessed us with her talents and we are all praying for her family in the Jacob Bryant Camp.
Jamie O’Neal – Loretta was THE original, southern storyteller of female power and boldness. No other woman had ever written songs like that and been so open and real. I grew up loving her voice and studying her story and her ‘won’t take crap from nobody’ lyrics. She blazed the trail for the rest of us to try and follow. This one really hurts. R.I.P to country music’s Queen.
Jay DeMarcus (Rascal Flatts) – I loved this lady with all of my heart. She had the ability to light up a room, and I know I’m better for having known her. Rest in peace, sweet Loretta.
Jeannie Seely – There are simply no words to adequately describe my feelings at this loss. She was the Matriarch of our Opry Family the past several years and even though she could not be there in person, she was very much in that building, in our hearts, and on our minds. She was very welcoming to me when I came, asking me to sit down beside her and tell her about me. I was thrilled then and it still thrills me to think she was interested. In the end she just patted my knee and said “Don’t ever change”. Her impact on our industry through her songs was huge. She made everyone aware, starkly at times, of the plight of some women’s lives, and that awareness brought about changes. Of course, I will always remember her sense of humor! She would ask me to tell her a joke and then say “Tell Doo so he can explain it to me”! She will always be one of Country Music’s greatest gifts to the world.
Jenny Tolman – Loretta Lynn will always be remembered as a legendary country music artist who blazed so many trails for women in country music. She said things that so many were afraid to say, that had never been spoken about before. I have been profoundly impacted by her songwriting and boldness, and inspired by her courage to share the female perspective of life in country music. Especially, being pregnant myself now, I am in awe of how she managed such a long-lasting and iconic career, all while being a loving mother. I share in the mourning with our country music community, as we say goodbye to an extraordinary woman.
Jerry Lee Lewis – I’ve known Loretta Lynn for many, many years. Watched her hit the scene in Nashville in 1960 and have always been a fan of her non-apologetic attitude and country sound. I was hoping to see her and visit at the Country Music Hall of Fame inductions coming up… God Bless her family and while we will miss her here on Earth, there’s no doubt in my mind she’s joined that heavenly choir.
Jimmy Wayne – RIP #LorettaLynn — What a legacy.
Joe Bonsall (Oak Ridge Boys) – Hey LORETTA … I love you more than my Irish Setter … Farewell my Queen
John Anderson – She was one of the greatest music and entertainment legends ever! She was so sweet and so smart! I will always be indebted to her for her inspiration and encouragement. My love and prayers are with her family.
John Berry – Kind, welcoming, sincere, thoughtful, how many positive attributes can I think of that describe Loretta Lynn. But one that I think of at the mention of her name is grateful. From side stage to backstage at the Opry, at her ranch in Hurricane Mills, to sharing the stage at a festival somewhere in America, there was always a sense of gratefulness that flowed from her. Not one to take for granted the talent, family, friends, fans, or the music that blessed her life and in turn blessed our lives. We will miss you Miss Loretta, we will miss you.
John Rich – #LorettaLynn was a TRUE American artist. She never sanded her rough edges, but instead, with her lyrics, put a magnifying glass on all the things that were imperfect in her life. She was an inspiration to millions, and the embodiment of the American Dream
Kacey Musgraves – Loretta. (broken heart emoji) 2nd Tweet: Rest in rhinestones, ‘Retta
Kelleigh Bannen – What to say…except thank you @LorettaLynn.
Kelly Willis Robison – Rest In Peace, dear Loretta Lynn. Her music was among the very best country music ever made and so very empowering.
Kent Blazy – Ms. Loretta was an inspiration and icon and the real deal to a Kentucky kid who was aiming to be a songwriter. Her story is so true that you could not make it up. She had grace, style and a kindness that permeated through her amazing career. A true groundbreaking legend. One of a kind.
Kid Rock – RIP Miss Loretta. I find it very difficult to put your beautiful soul, talent and friendship into words right now… so I will use the ones you said to me and so many others, so many times…”I love you honey”
Kyle Young (Country Music Hall of Fame CEO) – Loretta Lynn’s life was unlike any other, yet she drew from it a body of work that resonates with people everywhere. In a music business that is often concerned with aspiration and fantasy, Loretta insisted on sharing her own brash and brave truth.
Larry Gatlin – When my old friend, the late great football coach Bum Phillips was asked if Earl Campbell was in a class by himself, Bum replied, “Well, if he aint in a class by himself it for durn shor don’t take long to check roll.” Well, that’s the way I feel about Miss Loretta. Rest in peace sweetheart. If anybody deserves it, it’s you I miss you already. LarryG
LeAnn Rimes – oh, sweet loretta lynn… what a life! what an icon! what a trailblazer! what a beautiful soul! may she rest peacefully with the angels. my heart is with her family and friends. loretta lynn paved the way for so many of us women in country music. what a legacy she leaves behind
Lee Ann Womack – England lost their queen and now we’ve lost ours
Lewis Brice – What a life, a legacy, a legend we have lost today. Thank you Loretta Lynn for blessing this world with your incredible talents! They will stand forever and be missed dearly.
Maggie Rose – Sad to hear the news of Loretta’s passing but she gave so much and lived an incredibly full and inspiring life. I had the privilege of singing for her 90th birthday at the @opry earlier this year w/ @DrakeWhite. The love for this icon will live on like her music and her memory!
Marty Raybon (Shenandoah) – Today in the life of country music, this is one of its greatest losses. Loretta Lynn, the Coal Miner’s Daughter, was the actual Rual of country music. She spoke the trueness of a song and wrote better than anyone I’d ever heard. She will truly be missed. She was one of the strongest beating parts of the heart of country music
Matt Stell – Country music lost a legend today. Rest easy @LorettaLynn
Matt Stillwell – What a true legend! One of a kind! RIP!
Meghan Linsey – As a woman coming up in country music, I’ve always looked up to Loretta. She was an entertainer, a prolific songwriter, a business woman, and a trailblazer for women. She was as real as it gets. She didn’t do what she was told, she was controversial and she stayed true to herself throughout the course of her career. Such a legend. May she Rest In Peace.
Mikayla Lane – Even though we are generations apart, Miss Loretta has inspired me in many ways. Both originally being from Kentucky and her singing about the hollers back home, reminds me that people from even the tiniest towns around the U.S. can live their dream too.
Miranda Lambert – I’m so heartbroken to hear about Loretta’s passing. She was so kind to me and she blazed so many trails for all of us girls in country music. Thanks you for all the songs . Miss you. Fly high.
Natalie Hemby – I’d say that I was so glad to meet her, but it’s more than that. I just wanna thank God for that coal miner who had a daughter, who was the voice that cut a long and winding path for so many women…especially in country music. We are going to miss the most beautiful Van Lear Rose…#GoodbyeLoretta #thankyou
Niko Moon – Rest In Peace Loretta Lynn, a country music legend and true pioneer
Oak Ridge Boys – Very sad news this morning … LORETTA LYNN has gone home … Great Britain lost their Queen … now we have lost ours … Rest easy ma’am. You were loved all …
Pam Tillis – Isn’t it funny when you’re SO famous you only need one name for people to know who you’re talking about? Loretta. One of the incomparable archangels of country music, her name evoked deep truths with simplicity, genius distilled. Her voice was big enough to ring down any holler and carried around the world. She inspired generations of artists, was loved by the world and honored by her children. She lives on in her music and our memories.
Parker McCollum – Listening to nothing but Loretta Lynn for the rest of the week. RIP to an absolute icon in country music. Damn.
Randall King – RIP to the Coal Miner’s Daughter, a true legend and pioneer in country music @LorettaLynn
Randy Owen (Alabama) – Loretta was a true original. Loved her voice, especially on her gospel records. On behalf of ALABAMA, I’d like to say the world has lost a treasure. She will be missed.
Randy Travis – My roots in country music run deep because of may love an admiration for ‘Ms Loretta.’ She was there in the ’80s, when I arrived in Nashville, to encourage me and allow me to open for her on tour… and, she was there to open for me, in Aurora, IL, in 2013, which unknowingly was my last public concert before my stroke. The years in between are each gifts wrapped in respect, admiration, awe and love — and we shopped for lots of dresses through those years! Whenever I heard ‘my Randy,’ I knew Loretta was near and her kind, sweet kisses left lipstick memories on my forehead and both cheeks. I wish I could have bottled those kisses and saved them for a day like today, when I learned of her passing. An emptiness came over me as I reflected on the magnitude of Ms Loretta’s presence—in the heart and soul of country music, and the entire world–and the void now created. If your path ever crossed with hers, you immediately felt her magic. Loretta and Doolittle ‘Doo’ represented a legacy marriage with six beautiful children as proof… and, a lot of us that Ms. Loretta took under her wing. I thank God that my career overlapped with The Queen’s—it’s an honor and a privilege. After 90 years of teaching us how to live and love here on earth, we sing her home to heaven, with grateful hearts. Our thoughts and prayers follow the precious Lynn family down this road of loss and transition—thank you for sharing Ms Loretta with us. We will never have another Loretta Lynn…t his world isn’t good enough for two of her.
Ray Scott – One of my most recent Grand Ole Opry appearances is also one of the most memorable ones.. it was 6 years ago during the winter when they were doing the Opry shows at the Ryman Auditorium . As always, I was stoked to be there, but this one was an asterisk moment, so the anticipation was great. Loretta Lynn was to be on the show that night, and having never had the chance to meet her, well, you can imagine I was pretty excited… The week of the show, as luck would have it, I got sick… turned out to be a pretty rough sinus infection… My voice was completely shot, but there was no way I was gonna miss that performance, so I went to the doc and got a pretty powerful steroid shot… It helped quite a bit, but I still sounded like Froggy from the Little Rascals… not proud of that, but I was so blessed to have had the opportunity to meet her and share that stage with the Queen that evening.. I pray she rests well.
Ray Stevens – What a sweet lady and an authentic country singer. She gave a voice to millions of women who would have not otherwise had one. Loretta, we miss you already.
Reba McEntire – Mama and Loretta Lynn were four years apart, Mama being the oldest. They always reminded me a lot of each other. Strong women, who loved their children and were fiercely loyal. Now they’re both in Heaven getting to visit and talk about how they were raised, how different country music is now from what it was when they were young. Sure makes me feel good that Mama went first so she could welcome Loretta into the hollers of heaven! I always did and I always will love Loretta. She was always so nice to me. I sure appreciate her paving the rough and rocky road for all us girl singers.
Rebecca Lynn Howard – Saddened by the passing of the beautiful and oh so talented @LorettaLynn. She was one of my favorites and I even grew up right down the road from her hometown. Rest in peace, Loretta
Rhonda Vincent – Oh my heart is sad to learn that Loretta Lynn has passed away at 90 years old. Sending our love and prayers to her family. The Coal Miners Daughter – Loretta Lynn – April 14, 1932 – October 4, 2022 Rest In Sweet Peace Loretta.
Rich O’Toole – “Loretta, spread me up another one of them baloney sandwiches.” – RIP Loretta
Richard Young (Kentucky Headhunters) – Loretta always sent me notes of encouragement. She was proud of our Kentucky heritage. She once told me, ‘We were common and that’s what made us special.’ Loretta understood. The real deal! She understood the grass roots of all musical styles. She was not only the ‘Queen of Country Music’ but also the ‘Queen of Down to Earth.’
Ricky Skaggs – England just recently lost their Queen, and today we have lost ours. It’s a very sad day for the music industry. Loretta Lynn has gone on to her heavenly home. She did more for women in Country Music than anyone. She opened up all the doors. Her songwriting was cutting edge and she was never afraid to tell the truth. She loved her family and wrote songs about her eastern Kentucky upbringing, but her unforgettable voice and beautiful smile is what I’ll remember most about Loretta. She was an original, one of a kind.
Rodney Atkins – I’ve always said Loretta Lynn is the GOAT female artist of ALL music.. She lived it, wrote it and sang about it. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with her family…I know heaven will be celebrating Miss Loretta’s homecoming.
Ronnie Dunn – “Sweet Loretta” …The words legend and icon are over used in this business…. not in Loretta’s case. RD
Rosanne Cash – Oh, man. Rest in all kinds of power, Loretta Lynn. We’ll miss you. Here’s a clip a friend just sent me of @kdlang and me doing Loretta’s ‘You Ain’t Woman Enough’ in 1988.
Sammy Kershaw – Being a friend and knowing Loretta for many, many years, I am heartbroken. We will all miss her. God Bless her.
Sara Evans – I am so sad today. I grew up on stage singing Loretta Lynn songs and all I wanted was to be her! This WOMAN gave country music SO much of herself and her life. Where would we be without Loretta Lynn music in our lives? I know that she’s in Heaven right now singing with the angels. Her life was a country song. I am so grateful to have gotten to meet her and even sing for her once. Rest In Peace Loretta! We love you and you’ll be greatly missed!
Sarah Trahern (CMA CEO) – It is not enough to say today that Country Music has lost Loretta Lynn, but rather the world has lost a true music legend. Loretta was a woman whose contributions and impact inspired countless artists and transformed the Country genre into a universal art form. She was a Country Music Hall of Fame member and the first woman to receive a CMA Award for Entertainer of the Year. As a trailblazing songwriter, she bravely wrote about socially and culturally relevant topics that came to define a generation. I’ll personally remember Loretta for her spirit, artistry and genius that rivaled contemporaries like Bob Dylan, John Lennon and Paul McCartney.
Shania Twain – I’m always so flattered to be called a “trailblazer”, it’s the word that puts me in the company of such incredible female artists like Dolly, like Tammy and just like Loretta… I know that when Loretta got to Nashville in the 60’s there were hardly any women in Country music, it’s in the 70’s, because of women like Loretta, that the marketplace changed – that’s when women started to really sell records, that’s when women started to be played on the radio – that’s why I even stood a chance! Loretta was an honest and authentic songwriter, proud of her working class background, proud of her native American heritage, proud to be a woman and she had a wicked sense of humour about it all! Her musical legacy is more important than she will ever be credited for. There is no Shania Twain without Loretta Lynn (and those that came before her) – constantly kicking the door down and finding humour along the way! R.I.P Loretta
Sheryl Crow – The news of @LorettaLynn’s passing just came across my news feed and time stopped. There will never be another like her. May she forever sing with the angels!!
Steve Wariner – There will never be another @LorettaLynn, that’s for sure! Raw, natural talent combined with unwavering kindness. Love and condolences to the Lynn family. Rest In Peace, Blue Kentucky Girl.Tenille Arts – None of us women in country music could be where we are without her and the paths Loretta Lynn paved. Sending all of my love to her family, friends, and the whole country music family
Sylvia – What a sad day for us all losing such beautiful and talented woman who was not only the undisputed Queen of Country Music but an inspiration to us all — especially women artists!! She could write songs as well as sing them!! And, she sang and wrote music that empowered women but didn’t alienate men! What gifts she possessed!! She spoke and sang her feelings with humor and with heart-bearing honesty. There will never be another like her. I’m sending love and peace to all her friends and family. I feel sure her soul is at peace.
T.G. Sheppard – It’s another very sad day as I hear the news of my dear friend Loretta Lynn passing. I always loved touring and doing concerts with her through the years. She was and will always be one of the strongest forces that helped propel country music worldwide. Gone but will never be forgotten. R.I.P. my friend.
T. Graham Brown – Sweet Miss Loretta Lynn has crossed the river Jordan. I first met her in 1977 and have since remained friends. Sheila and I will miss her greatly. I’ll always cherish her recording of my song, “Wine Into Water”. Please, pray for her family at this sad time. God bless you and rest in blessed peace.
Tanya Tucker – Today, my world changed, and it will never be the same again. My hero got her wings last night, and it’s been a day filled with tears. Many memories, so much gratitude and thanking my God above for blessing me first with her music and her guidance through the perils of the music world way before we ever met. I looked up to Loretta always. Then when we became friends, she brought me flowers always, and I brought flowers to her. Time has let me share many special moments with her, but now time has taken her from me forever! But she’s left me with so much to remember and cling on to. I thank God above that I got to sing with her on her latest record. I’ve been waiting a long time for that to come to pass. I was busy planning a much-needed trip to Mexico when I got the news, but for now, Mexico will have to wait because my childhood hero Loretta Lynn has caught the train and she’s ‘On Her Way to Heaven.’ Mexico will always be there, but my friend has gone on to glory. I will see her there someday! I miss you so Retti! I think you know how I feel! Your girl always.
Taylor Hicks – Loretta Lynn was one the great musical female troubadours. Her songs and ass kicking lyrics will stand the testament of time. Three chords and the truth was Loretta Lynn.
Terri Clark – You were a pioneer who, not only blazed the trail, but shined the light behind you so that the rest of us gals could find our way. You did it with grace, humor, kindness, and unparalleled talent. Getting to know you was one of the true honors of not just my career, but my life.
Tim McGraw – There was no one like Loretta. She was a trailblazer for the genre and a role model for so many young women…. My wife and our daughters included. Sending our love to her family and all of those grieving today.
Tim Rushlow – Loretta Lynn started the trail! She was the original trailblazer and will forever be an amazing rags to riches story. However, she will always be a first class lady who always treated everyone with honor and dignity, me included. Rest high sweet friend.
Trace Adkins – Loretta Lynn The poet that could contextualize her life has yet to be born. I’ll cherish the memories of the times I was in her presence. Rest In peace, darling.
Tracy Lawrence – I’m heartbroken to hear of Loretta’s passing. She’s been part of my musical life since birth. My mother was a fan & listened to her music while she was carrying me. In fact if I’d been born a girl my mother would’ve named me Loretta Lynn. God bless you miss Loretta.
Travis Tritt – So sad to hear of the passing of ⁦Loretta Lynn. She was always an inspiration to those of us grew up listening to and loving real country music. Her kindness, strength and devotion to country music and her fans will be deeply missed. They don’t make ‘em like her anymore.
Trisha Yearwood – Pioneer. Queen. Wife. Mother. Friend. The mark you’ve made in this world will live on forever. Miss Loretta, I will miss you. Strength to the family and all who love you.
Ty Herndon – Loretta Lynn was an angel in this industry and in this world. My heart and my prayers go out to her family and everyone who loved her so.
Vince Gill – Loretta Lynn April 14, 1932, Butcher Hollow, KY – October 4, 2022, Hurricane Mills, TN
Wynonna – When people ask me what my favorite movie is, “Coal Miner’s Daughter” is my number one. Loretta has always been my favorite, from the time I can remember. As a young girl, I learned about Loretta from listening to the Grand Ole Opry. I met her when I was just 20 years old. As I walked into the CMA’s for the first time in 1984, she was the first person who came over and hugged me. Loretta was like an aunt to me. I would call her and she would tell me stories. Some of my fondest memories of Loretta come from her telling me all about her life in Butcher Holler. During one of my recent visits to Hurricane Mills, she gave me a Bible and a crocheted doily that her Mama made. I will cherish those gifts forever. It’s really hard for me to comprehend life without her. I will miss our chats on the phone, the sound of her voice telling me she loves me, and hearing her beautiful laughter {at my jokes}… We mustn’t ever forget how important this woman was…IS…to country music. Rest In Peace my beloved “Retty.” I will always love you.

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