Roots, Toots n' Hoots Blog

Remembering those no longer with us

Jeffrey Remz  |  December 31, 2010

As we are in our last hours of 2010, we remember those who contributed to country music, who are no longer with us:

Carl Smith, 82, the honky tonk star of the 1950s-70s.

Solomon Burke, 70, best known as a great soul singer, but recorded the disc, "Nashville" with Buddy Miller producing.

Jimmy Dean, 91, singer, actor and entrepreneur, known for Big Bad John and sausage.

Dale Hawkins, 73, rockabilly pioneer and writer of Susie Q.

Hank Cochran, 74, songwriter and recording artist. Among the hits he wrote were Make the World Go Away and I Fall to Pieces.

Fred Carter, Jr., 76, session guitarist and father of country artist Deana Carter.

Ben Keith, 73, session pedal steel guitarist, record producer, known for his work with Neil Young.

George Richey, 74, songwriter and record producer; widower of Tammy Wynette.

Linda Hargrove, 61, singer and songwriter wrote Just Get Up and Close the Door by Johnny Rodriguez.

Larry Jon Wilson, 69, songwriter and recording artist, who released his first album in 30 years 2 years ago.

May their contributions to country always be remembered for the joy they brought to people everywhere.