Brad Paisley

This Date in Country Music History

• 2025 – Lainey Wilson released her song “Somewhere Over Laredo”
• 2022 – Tyler Hubbard released his single “5 Foot 9”
• 2022 – Lainey Wilson released her single “Heart Like a Truck”
• 2017 – Brett Young’s single “In Case You Didn’t Know” was certified platinum
• 2011 – Brad Paisley released his album This Is Country Music
• 2005 – Gary Allan released his single “Best I Ever Had”
• 2000 – Lee Ann Womack‘s I Hope You Dance album was released
• 1995 – Daryle Singletary’s self-titled debut album was released
• 1992 – Sawyer Brown scored a #1 hit with “Some Girls Do”
• 1981 – Rosanne Cash hit #1 on the country charts with “Seven Year Ache”
• 1966 – Loretta Lynn‘s “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” was released
• 1953 – Jim Reeves made his Grand Ole Opry debut

HCM Content

• 2025 – HCM Weekly Country Music News – May 23rd, 2025
• 2024 – HCM Daily Country Music News – May 23rd, 2024
• 2023 – HCM Daily Country Music News – May 23rd, 2023
• 2022 – HCM Daily Country Music News – May 23rd, 2022
• 2020 – HCM Daily News – May 23rd, 2020
• Today’s Birthdays – May 23rd

Today’s Photo Flashback

• A Thousand Horses – 5/23/15 – Coral Sky Amphitheatre in West Palm Beach, FL
• Brett Eldredge – 5/23/15 – Coral Sky Amphihteatre in West Palm Beach, FL
• Brothers Osborne – 5/23/15 – Coral Sky Amphitheatre in West Palm Beach, FL
• Darius Rucker – 5/23/15 – Coral Sky Amphitheatre in West Palm Beach, FL

This Date in Country Music History

• 2023 – Jelly Roll released his song “Need a Favor”
• 2022 – Mickey Guyton sang the National Anthem before the Super Bowl
• 2012 – Luke Bryan released his single “Drunk On You”
• 2011 – Lady Antebellum took home 5 Grammys for their hit “Need You Now”
• 2005 –Tim McGraw‘s “Live Like You Were Dying” scored 2 Grammys
• 2002 – Waylon Jennings passed away after losing his fight with diabetes
• 1989 – Alabama released their single “If I Had You”
• 1988 – Rosanne Cash topped the charts with a remake of her father’s hit “Tennessee Flat Top Box”
• 1971 – Sammi Smith scored a #1 hit with “Help Me Make It Through The Night”

HCM Content

• 2025 – HCM Daily Country Music News – February 13th, 2025
• 2024 – HCM Daily Country Music News – February 13th, 2024
• 2023 – HCM Daily Country Music News – February 13th, 2023
• 2020 – Country Music Videos – February 13th, 2020
• Today’s Birthdays – February 13th

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… https://nytimes.com/…/music/loretta-lynn-dead.html #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.

Martina McBride

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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