Bill Friskics-Warren
Posts
Anita Kerr, an Architect of the Nashville Sound, Dies at 94
She and her background vocalists were heard “oohing” and “aahing” on thousands of country and pop hits recorded in the 1950s and ’60s.
Loretta Lynn, Country Music Star and Symbol of Rural Resilience, Dies at 90
Her powerful voice, playful lyrics and topical songs were a model for generations of country singers and songwriters. So was her life story.
Ray Edenton, ‘A-Team’ Studio Guitarist in Nashville, Dies at 95
In a career that spanned four decades, he played on thousands of sessions and accompanied many of the biggest names in country music.
Bill Walker, Nashville Force as Conductor and Arranger, Dies at 95
He scored chart-topping records for country stars and later served as the musical director of “The Johnny Cash Show.”
Mickey Gilley, Country Music Star Whose Club Inspired ‘Urban Cowboy,’ Dies at 86
Mr. Gilley, who had more than 30 chart-topping records, owned a Texas nightclub that was behind a country music revival.
Roland White, a Shaper of Bluegrass and Country Rock, Dies at 83
A mandolin player and singer, he made his mark with the Country Boys (later renamed the Kentucky Colonels), and his influence extended into ’60s rock.
Hargus Robbins, Pianist on Country Music Hits, Dies at 84
A revered member of Nashville’s A-Team of studio musicians, he was a major contributor to Bob Dylan’s “Blonde on Blonde” album.
Dan Einstein, Champion of Singer-Songwriters, Is Dead at 61
He operated independent record labels for John Prine and Steve Goodman that took a critically praised (and award-winning) artist-driven approach.
Ralph Emery, the Dick Clark of Country Music, Dies at 88
For six decades he promoted country performers on radio and television, earning a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Dallas Frazier, Who Wrote Hits for Country Stars, Dies at 82
His songs included the novelty number “Alley Oop,” the Oak Ridge Boys’ hit “Elvira” and “Beneath Still Waters” for Emmylou Harris.