COUNTRY SINGER JEFF CARSON DIES AT 58

COUNTRY SINGER JEFF CARSON DIES AT 58

Country Music Community and Friends Mourn the Loss of Jeff Carson

Jeff Carson  Dec 16, 1963 - March 26, 2022

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (March 27, 2022) – Country music hitmaker and Academy of Country Music award-winner Jeff Carson died of a heart attack at Williamson Medical Center in Franklin, Tennessee at the age of 58.

Jeffrey Lee Herndon, known musically by Jeff Carson, was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on December 16, 1963, and began his musical career early on singing in church. After forming a band in Rogers, Arkansas, Carson eventually moved to Branson, Missouri where he wrote songs and played around locally before moving to Nashville where he began recording demos, including Tracy Byrd (“Walkin’ To Jerusalem”), Tracy Lawrence (“I See it Now”), Reba McEntire (“The Heart Is A Lonely Hunter”), Tim McGraw (“I Wouldn’t Want It Any Other Way”), Faith Hill (“It Matters To Me”), Mark Wills (“Places I’ve Never Been”), Diamond Rio (“Mirror Mirror”) among others.

In 1995, Chuck Howard was instrumental in getting Carson his recording contract at Curb Records, and soon a single, “Yeah Buddy,” was released to radio. 

This was his first charting single and was followed up with ‘Not On Your Love,’ which went number one. The following single, ‘The Car,’ became a top-five hit, topping out at number two and won Carson his first Academy of Country Music award for “Video of the Year.”

Carson had several other singles, including “Real Life (Was Never The Same Again)” from his album “Real Life.”

In total, Carson’s career achieved 14 charted singles on the Billboard chart.

Marie Crichton Country BBC Radio Shropshire spins:

11 Dec 2006 Playlist: Jeff Carson - Betty’s Taking Judo | CD Line Dance Fever 2 Label Curb

15 Dec 2008 Playlist: Jeff Carson - Do It Again | CD-Line Dance Fever 4  Curb

13 Dec 2010 Playlist: Jeff Carson - The Car | CD-Jeff Carson  Curb  

14 Dec 2013 Playlist: Jeff Carson - The Car "see his name on line dancing compilations, hint of Garth Brooks”

In 2009, Carson retired from music to become a law enforcement officer with Franklin Police Department in Williamson County, Tennessee, where he currently remained on the police force.

Carson returned to music in 2019 signing a singles deal with MC1 Nashville to recut and release a previously recorded song “God Save The World,” which charted on the Music Row Top 40 chart. 

Most recently Carson signed with Encore Music Group and has been in the studio with Buddy Hyatt recording a specialty album to be released later this year that included duets with Michael Ray, Darryl Worley, Mark Wills, and Craig Morgan.

Jeff Carson is survived by his wife Kim Cooper Carson, son Dayton Grei Herndon Carson, mother Virginia Norton, brother Steve Herndon, sister Karen Spurlock, as well as aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

For more information on Jeff Carson visit HERE and follow his social channels linked below.
 Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Website

Final procession for Country singer and Franklin PD officer Jeff Carson following his funeral service: https://bit.ly/3J29PXP

Jeff Carson Memorial Service & Motorcade held Saturday, April 2nd

After a successful career in country music, including several chart-topping songs, Officer Jeff Carson joined the Franklin Police Department on May 27, 2008. During his tenure with the FPD, Carson earned six commendations, a Chief’s Award for Excellence, and was recently promoted to Police Officer-2. Jeff’s loss is widely felt, across several communities: country music, law enforcement, and the entire Franklin, Williamson County community, which he proudly served and protected for the last 14 years.

Country Music Community and Friends Mourn the Loss of Jeff Carson

Fellow artists and friends mourn the loss of their friend and share memories of a true mentor, Jeff Carson:

“The Oak Ridge Boys are saddened by the loss of Jeff Carson. Yes, he had a bunch of charted singles but his heart belonged to the Franklin TN Police department where he served as a law enforcement officer since 2009. We didn’t know Jeff well but certainly admired him. Rest In Peace!” - Joe Bonsall / The Oak Ridge Boys

"I've tried being ok and thinking you're in a better place but this doesn't seem real! I hope you know getting to sing "The Car" with you will always be one of my most cherished moments. I love you, man. Watch out for us brother we're gonna need it!" - Michael Ray

“Kim and I are shocked today to hear of the passing of Jeff Carson. What an awesome man and patriot! I will forever be thankful for his participation in my tribute concert a few months ago and was blown away by his talent. We are sending prayers to his family tonight. Jeff, thank you for serving our community of Franklin and for being a wonderful friend to so many including myself. Go rest high on the mountain my friend!” - Lee Greenwood

“I had the chance to work with him some time ago. What a kind man he was to everyone. My prayers go out to his family, friends & fans, and also the men and women in blue that he worked with. Gone but never forgotten.” - T.G. Sheppard

“Sheila and I are so sorry to hear about our friend, Jeff Carson! Gone too soon! He was an awesome musician and several years ago, he joined the Franklin, TN Police Department. To me, he was a hero for doing that! I had gotten to know him better over the last few years. We shared a dressing room (and a lot of laughs) when we did the Lee Greenwood 40 Years of Hits at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Alabama last fall. My band and I played the after-party and Jeff got up and sang a few songs. When he was through, he gave me a bear hug and had a big ‘ol’ grin on his face! That’s how I’ll always remember him! Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, son, family, brothers/sisters in blue, and fans. Rest in Peace, brother!” - T. Graham and Sheila Brown

“Jeff Carson was a wonderful singer and a true family man. He left his mark on country music and the entire Nashville community. Prayers to his family, friends, and police force during this sad time.” - Johnny Lee

“So saddened to hear of the passing of my friend Jeff Carson. He was a tremendous singer and one of the kindest people I've ever met. He also was a law enforcement officer who served his community bravely. He'll be missed dearly. I'll see you on the good side buddy.” - Bryan White

“Jeff was a friend. Always made me laugh. Always eager to serve. Once "arrested" me at a restaurant. Another time, he acted like he was buying drugs from me--in front of police officers. Will miss him.” - Stephen Mansfield

“I admire Jeff Carson for not only his music as a Country Music artist, but his dedication to family, and serving his community as a law officer. My love & prayers to his family.” - Rhonda Vincent

“I’m sorry to hear the sad news about Jeff. We all enjoyed working on the Lee Greenwood show, and I know he will be missed by his family and friends. Prayers for all those who knew him.” - Janie Fricke

“Jeff Carson was one of the most gifted singers in Country Music. He could rock you with songs like “Yeah Buddy”, but it was the soulful ballads like “Not On Your Love” where he would truly shine. His talent and love for this music was clear and showed every time he stepped up to the microphone. Later in life, he chose the honorable profession of law enforcement. Both of these vocations showed his big heart. Our condolences go out to his wife, Kim, son Dayton and the rest of his family, as well as the many friends and fans. Rest well.” - Dallas Wayne / SiriusXM Radio

“Shocked and saddened by this news. Rest in peace my friend.” - Terry McBride

“I’m so shocked and sad. My love goes out to his sweet family.” - Jamie O’Neal

“Never got the chance to know him personally, but it’s a terrible loss for the community. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones.” - Ian Flanigan

“Jeff was one of the nicest people I have ever met. He was a very talented man with a true country voice. Blessed to have known him and will cherish the memories we made together.” - Shane Owens

“I am shocked and saddened by the passing of Jeff Carson. I was a big fan of his music growing up and was excited to hear that he was making a comeback to the music scene. I had just recently heard him chat with Billy Cody on WSM Radio and could tell how excited he was to get music out and reconnect with the fans. He told a story about his old guitar that he was playing on the radio that day that made its way back to him from a fan. It was powerful. "The Car" is one of my favorite storytelling songs. He will be missed but his music will live on.” - JD Shelburne

“Jeff Carson left a mark on this world both through his music & his personality. He will truly be missed!” - Paige King Johnson

“I am saddened to hear about the passing of Jeff Carson. He was a man of many great songs and had a voice like no other. I admired his vocal skills and his true, classic country sound. Although he will be missed, his music will live on forever in the world of country music. May he Rest In Peace!” - Makenzie Phipps

Artists and Industry Friends Reflect on Passing of Tom T. Hall

 Artists and Industry Friends Reflect on Passing of Tom T. Hall

23 Aug 2021

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Tom T. Hall was dubbed “The Storyteller” by Country Music Hall of Fame member Tex Ritter. He was known for writing songs distinguished by their narrative quality, their rich detail, and their keen insight into the beauty of everyday life,” described by the Country Music Hall of Fame. The Country music singer-songwriter Tom T. Hall died Friday at his home in Franklin, Tennessee, at the age of 85.

Artists and industry friends reflected on his passing:

“It is difficult to believe the Storyteller of our time is gone, his stories have been told and that is so hard to imagine, as we all want to hear more.  If you listen to “I Love” you know Tom T,  and you also know that’s why HE was loved so much. He reminded us that those little things were so special, like little baby ducks. One of the treasures that I regret losing in the flood was a handwritten note to me from Tom T. for the ‘recipes’ I had written for the Animal Land Cookbook. He said it was a gift to be able to make someone laugh in one paragraph and cry in the next, and he should know because he did that often. The treasure I regret losing most of all is Tom T. Hall as he was truly a gift. It helps to know that today he is reunited with Miss Dixie and all the dogs they’ve ever loved.”– Jeannie Seely

“Tom T Hall was one of the greatest songwriter/poets of our time. He could paint wonderful, vivid pictures with his words – a great fellow Kentuckian, and a wonderful person.” – Marlon Hargis-Exile

“We have lost two awesome story tellers over the past year, Charlie Daniels and now Tom T. Hall and we will miss them both tremendously. Tom T. made all of us Kentucky folks proud, and we will brag about and honor him and pray for his family! Rest In Peace Tom T.” – Les Taylor-Exile

“Oh my gosh. My hero is gone. A true genius. “Old Dogs and Children and Watermelon Wine” was my favorite country song of all time. This is a big one.” – JP Pennington-Exile

“For this Kentucky boy dreaming of being a songwriter, Mr, Hall was a North star and inspiration. He came from a small town in Kentucky and his songs reached folks around the world. He wrote about real people and real life with his own unique style. He certainly was one of a kind and a gift to me.” – Kent Blazy

“When we were kids, we had many musical heroes. We were inspired when we heard them singing on the radio or telling stories about their lives in music. We saw that through hard work and sheer talent, they deserved every ounce of their success. We looked up to them and dared to dream. It is sometimes said that you should never meet your heroes because they may not live up to your expectations, but when we started our band in 2007, we never imagined it could be possible that many of our musical heroes would eventually become our friends. Tom T. Hall, a giant among musical heroes for many, was so much more than we imagined a hero could be. Along with his wife, Miss Dixie, he was always so very kind and giving of his time to us. They loved our music, and from the very beginning, they believed that with time…if we stuck it out…we could experience great success, too. They were BIG reasons that we  pursued our career and knew that we could do anything we set our minds to. That’s what it felt like to be around Tom T. – like greatness was possible. He knew how to be great and made those around him want to be great, too. We are saddened to hear of his passing, but we know that he anticipated his glad reunion with Miss Dixie since her passing in 2015. Thank you, Tom T., for your inspiration and friendship, and for leaving the world with songs and stories that will continue to be told for generations to come. We already miss you.” –Darin and Brooke Aldridge

“Tom. T. inspired me so much with his conversational lyrics. It doesn’t get any better than “That’s How I Got To Memphis”. As a kid, in my mind, I spent a week with Tom T. in that little country jail, I could almost taste Watermelon Wine and I could just picture the lonely Dad in “Homecoming”. Tom T. sent me a note several years ago. It read, “Have fun in the music biz, but don’t try to have as much fun as I did. All the best, Tom T”  I’ll treasure that note forever.” –Bobby Tomberlin

“Tom T Hall was one of the greatest songwriters in the history of music. He will live on through the many great songs that he wrote. Prayer to his family and loved ones in their time of loss.” – Taylon Hope

“My family and I are so saddened to hear about the passing of Tom T. Hall. Growing up on traditional country music, some of my most favorite songs are “Harper Valley PTA” and his version of “Fox on the Run”. What a tremendous songwriter and storyteller. Country music will greatly miss Tom T. Hall” – Dallas Remington 

“Tom was a legend and a gentleman. He was a true supporter of young artists, always encouraging the next generation of songwriters. His impact on us will not soon be forgotten, and he will be missed dearly. Our regret is that we weren’t able to sit down and chat with Tom T. Hall  for our podcast series, Country Music Success Stories.  Tom’s vast experience in country music and his wisdom would have been an incredible experience for listeners.” – Country Music Success Stories – Candy O’ Terry and Jacy Dawn Valeras

“Tom T. Hall was quoted as saying ‘Remember that someone is always thinking of you and wants you to be happy. People like you better than you do. You’re ok.’ He was an amazing songwriter and what an impact he made on so many lives. He will be missed greatly! Thank you for your poetry and kindness.” – Kyndon Oakes

“Tom T. was one of the first people I reached out to when I moved to Nashville. I knew he was one of the very final links between Country Music’s golden era and the Music City that we live in today. While I’m sad he has left us, I’m glad he is reunited with Dixie. And luckily for us, he left behind a vast collection of stories that we are able to share with the many generations of poets and songwriters to come.” – Zacharia Malachi

“So sorry to hear this! Tom T. Hall was a legend and a great storyteller.” – Frank Myers

“I am so saddened to hear of the loss of the great storyteller of country music himself, Mr. Tom T. Hall. “Harper Valley PTA” was always one of my favorite hits of the many that he wrote. He will surely be missed, but forever live on through all of his songs.” –Dani-elle Kleha

“Rest In Peace Tom T. Hall. ‘The Storyteller’ of country music. Your legacy will live on forever.” – Rob & Jackie Wolf

“Very sorry to hear of the passing of Tom T Hall. He was the Storyteller of Country Music. My condolences and prayers for his family. What a gift he was and will always be to us all.” – Mickey Lamantia

More Fellow artists mourn the loss of their friend Tom T. Hall:

 

“I worked with Tom on several occasions, and he was always a gentleman. He was a very interesting songwriter and a fun person to be around. He contributed a great deal to country music and he got to live a full life.” – Don McLean

 

“Back in 1978 when we sang at Mama Maybelle Carter’s funeral a saddened and shaken Johnny Cash walked up to the podium and asked Tom T. Hall to stand with him… Johnny said, “I draw strength from you, Tom!” Thank you Tom T. Hall for the songs and the strength you provided to so many … Rest Easy now and draw strength from the loving arms of Jesus… until the day.” – Joe Bonsall, The Oak Ridge Boys

 

“TOM T. HALL WAS A ONE-OF-A-KIND HUMAN BEING. HE LEFT US WITH A BODY OF SONGS THE LIKES OF WHICH WE WRITERS CAN ONLY DREAM OF. HIS RECORDS WERE HITS. A SUCCESSFUL AUTHOR, HIS BOOKS WERE ALWAYS A FUN READ. HE MADE US LAUGH AND CRY. HE WAS A HALL OF FAMER AND WILL BE DEEPLY MISSED. THAT IS THE MARK OF TRUE GREATNESS. REST EASY, OLD STORYTELLER.” – T. Graham Brown

 

“Tom T. Hall made a great impact in country music and beyond, with the social messages written in his songs, such as “Harper Valley P.T.A.”, a huge hit for Jeanie C. Riley . . . I just visited with her at a show I did in Carthage, Texas and it brought back great memories of that era and time in my life. Greatly missed, and loved.” – Janie Fricke

 

“I loved him – he was always so kind and good to me – and so complimentary – when I was first in Nashville and he heard me sing, he said he thought I must be the reincarnation of Hank Williams – what a lovely thing to say. I will miss him.” – Lacy J. Dalton

 

“The one thing I could always count on when doing shows with Tom T was that there would be laughter. His incredible poetic writing talent and storytelling genius will for sure be deeply missed. He truly was one of our industry’s great treasures.” – T.G. Sheppard

“I grew up listening to Tom T. Hall on the radio or being covered in the Oprys of Texas. He is and will always be a Legend. Never forgotten. We will miss you, Mr. Hall. Sending all my love and prayers to his family in this time.” – Mary Sarah

 

“Tom T. Hall loved honest, open smiles, kisses from a child, tomatoes on the vine, and onions. He was the quintessential artist who painted life’s portrait with an economy of words, a storyteller with a philosopher’s wisdom, and a poet with the common man’s heart. I remember one glorious day at Fox Hollow with Tom and Miss Dixie–sitting around their kitchen table sharing stories–hoping that in some crazy way I would absorb even an ounce of his genius. He pulled out an old guitar that day and began to sing “The Homecoming.” I was spellbound as he wove his tale of a country music singer standing on his father’s doorstep after years on the road. There’s a sadness at the finality of Tom’s road days coming to an abrupt end, but peace in the fact that he is home for good now still loving winners when they cry, loser’s when they try, music when it’s good, and life.” – Tim Atwood

 

“What a sad day in country music. We’ve yet again lost another legend. Truly an icon to so many in this business. Gone but will never be forgotten. RIP Tom T. Hall. Prayers sent!” – Shane Owens

 

“Frizzell and West enjoyed being the guests on the TV Show “Pop Goes The Country” with Tom T. Hall as host. We had a great time. ‘Say Hello To Heaven’, Tom T.” – David Frizzell

 

“I’m shocked and saddened to hear the tragic passing of fellow Kentuckian Tom T Hall! One of the pioneers of songwriting and a hall of famer that was known everywhere. Country music has lost one of the good ones. Prayers to the family.” – JD Shelburne

 

“I recorded this back in 1999. [ listen ] It was a Tom T. Hall tribute by his favorite bluegrass singer Charlie Sizemore. It is one of my all-time favorite projects to ever work on. Tom T. and Dixie were with us every step of the way, and he was grinning from ear to ear the day we had The Oak Ridge Boys come in to add their signature sound to his classic composition “Me And Jesus.” Duane Allen is my father-in-law, and I know how important great songs are to him, so it was an easy task getting them to come in and sing on a song written by ‘The Storyteller’.

Every time I play this version, I am transported back to that day. One of the greatest songwriters combined with one of the greatest vocal groups coming together to document a moment in time.

There was so much fun and laughter in the studio that day. I have always believed that type of environment is what creates the best chances of capturing special moments. In my view, I believe we achieved our goal.” – Paul Martin, Rockland Road

 

B.J. THOMAS DEAD AT 78

Fellow Singer/Songwriters and Friends Remember and Mourn The Loss of B.J. Thomas

29 May

ARLINGTON, Texas – Five-time Grammy award winner and Grammy Hall of Fame inductee, B.J. Thomas, died today at home in Arlington, Texas at the age of 78 from complications due to stage four lung cancer.

Few artists have left a more indelible mark on America’s musical landscape than B.J. Thomas. With his smooth, rich voice and unerring song sense, Thomas’s expansive career crossed multiple genres, including country, pop, and gospel, earning him CMA, Dove, and Grammy awards and nominations since his emergence in the 1960s.

Thomas’ career was anchored by numerous enduring hits, among them his million-selling cover of Hank Williams’ “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry,” the Grammy-winning “(Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song” and the iconic “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head,” which won the Academy Award for best original song. A five-time Grammy award winner and Grammy Hall of Fame inductee, Thomas has sold over 70 million albums worldwide, scoring eight No. 1 hits and 26 Top 10 singles over his 50+ years in the music industry. His lengthy chart history led to him being named one of Billboard’s Top 50 Most Played Artists Over The Past 50 Years. Such memorable hits as “I Just Can’t Help Believing, “Don’t Worry Baby,” “Whatever Happened To Old Fashioned Love,” “New Looks From An Old Lover” and “Hooked on a Feeling” have made him a staple on multiple radio formats over the years.

Born in rural Hugo, OK, Billy Joe Thomas moved to Houston, Texas with his family and where he grew up absorbing a variety of musical influences from the traditional country of Ernest Tubb and Hank Williams Dr. to the soulful sounds of Jackie Wilson and Little Richard, whose “Miss Ann” was the first single B.J. ever bought. He began singing in church as a child and in his teens joined the Houston-based band the Triumphs.

Thomas’s first taste of success came in 1966 when he recorded “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” with producer Huey P. Meaux. Released by Scepter Records, it peaked at No. 8 on the pop charts and became his first million-selling single. He released the follow-up single, “Mama,” and delivered his first solo album that same year.

Thomas’ second million-selling hit came in 1968 with the release of “Hooked on a Feeling,” from On My Way, his sophomore album for Scepter. During his days with the New York label, he became friendly with Ronnie Milsap and Dionne Warwick, who were also on the roster at the time. It was Warwick who introduced him to songwriter-producer Burt Bacharach. In January 1970, Thomas topped the charts with “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head.” Penned by Bacharach and Hal David, the song was featured in the classic Paul Newman/Robert Redford film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, earning the Oscar for best original song. Sales quickly exceeded two million copies and it has remained one of the most enduring pop hits of all time, reoccurring in such films as Forrest Gump, Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle, Clerks II, and Spider-Man 2 as well as multiple TV shows over the years. He followed that career-defining single with a string of pop/rock hits, including “Everybody's Out of Town,” “I Just Can't Help Believing,” “No Love at All” and “Rock and Roll Lullaby.”

After six years with Scepter Records, Thomas signed with Paramount Records where he released two albums—1973’s Songs and 1974’s Longhorns & Londonbridges. In 1975, Thomas released the album Reunion on ABC Records, featuring “(Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song,” which holds the distinction of being the longest titled No. 1 hit ever on Billboard’s Hot 100.

Like many successful pop/rock artists, Thomas fell into drugs and battled substance abuse. His wife Gloria became a born-again Christian and the turning point in Thomas’ life came when he became a believer in 1976. He immediately quit drugs and found an avenue for expressing his faith in gospel music. Thomas signed with Myrrh Records and released the album Home Where I Belong in 1976. Produced by Chris Christian, the project won Thomas a Grammy and became the first of two Dove Award wins. The album became the first gospel record to sell a million copies. The warmth and emotional timbre of Thomas’s voice was well suited to the genre and he became one of gospel music’s most successful artists. His rendition of “Amazing Grace” is considered one of the most poignant of the classic hymn’s many covers.

In addition to his country and gospel success, Thomas also enjoyed a healthy run on the country charts in the 1980s with such hits as “Whatever Happened to Old Fashioned Love,” “New Looks from an Old Lover Again,” “The Whole World’s in Love When You’re Lonely” and “Two Car Garage.” “(Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song” was No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Hot Country Songs charts. It won the Grammy for Best Country Song in 1976 and was nominated for CMA Single of the Year. On his 39th birthday in 1981, Thomas became the 60th member of the Grand Ole Opry.

Beyond populating multiple radio formats with so many beloved hits, Thomas also voiced the theme song, “As Long As We’ve Got Each Other,” for the popular TV series Growing Pains, and has lent his voice to numerous commercials, including campaigns for Coca-Cola and Pepsi. He can also be seen on television hosting Time Life Music’s Forever 70s infomercial. As an actor, he also appeared in the films Jory and Jake's Corner. Thomas authored two books, including his autobiography Home Where I Belong.

In 2013, he released The Living Room Sessions, an acoustic album, which celebrated Thomas’s nearly six decades in the music industry. The project featured Thomas dueting with other high profile artists on his most beloved hits, which included teaming with Richard Marx for “(Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song,” Vince Gill on “I Just Can’t Help Believing,” Sara Niemietz on “Hooked on a Feeling,” Keb' Mo' on “Most of All,” Lyle Lovett on “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head” and The Fray’s Isaac Slade on “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry.” The album was well-received with critics praising it as a reminder of just how engaging his voice remained after decades of recording and touring.

Though Thomas will be remembered as one of this generation’s premiere vocalists and a consummate entertainer, the humble artist was most proud of his family. He’s survived by his wife of 53 years Gloria, their three daughters Paige Thomas, Nora Cloud, and Erin Moore, and four grandchildren, Nadia Cloud, Keira Cloud, Ruby Moore, and Billy Joe Moore.

A quote from his website exemplifies Thomas’ humble attitude and appreciation for life. “All I am is just another guy. I’ve been very lucky,” he shared. “I’ve had a wonderful life, I’ve been a husband and a father who cherishes his children and now I’m a grandfather, and I’m motivated like all these teachers and preachers and mothers and fathers to help my kids grow up with character and self-respect. I hope that doesn’t sound too grandiose, but that’s what it comes down to. It’s what I’ve tried to do with my music and with the majority of my life.”

4 Feb 2022 Update

IN REMEMBRANCE – LOVE SONGS & LOST TREASURES AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER NOW AT BJTHOMAS.COM

Nashville, Tenn. – B.J. Thomas, whose career spanned over six decades and sold over 70 million albums, will have new music available to music lovers on February 4, 2022, as Real Gone Music will release an 18-song CD, which will include 13 unreleased songs! This package includes eight unreleased songs from the Warner-Reprise Records vault, four songs from a limited edition direct response album in the 90s, rare photos, outtakes recorded with veteran songwriter/producer Steve Dorff, and more. Fans can pre-order this collection at www.bjthomas.com.

 

Track listing:

1. Expression of Faith

2. Meet at My Heart*

3. I Like Livin’*

4. When the Hero Dies*

5. The Best Things in Life*

6. Rock and Roll Lullaby*

7. Hands on Me Again

8. This Ain’t a Song (It’s a Prayer)

9. Think About Me*

10. No One Else on Earth*

11. Our Younger Hearts*

12. That’s The Thing About Love*

13. Red Letter Days

14. When a Woman Talks*

15. Love by Any Name*

16. Memory in the Making*

17. Wings of a Dove*

18. America the Beautiful

 

* denotes unreleased track

Country Music Singer/Songwriter Ed Bruce Dies At Age Of 81

 COUNTRY MUSIC SINGER/SONGWRITER ED BRUCE DIES AT AGE OF 81

 

08/01/21 

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. - Ed Bruce, singer/songwriter, died Friday, January 8, 2021, in Clarksville, Tennessee, of natural causes at age 81.

In 1957, at the age of 17, he went to see Jack Clement, a recording engineer for Sun Records. Bruce caught the attention of Sun owner Sam Phillips, for whom he wrote and recorded "Rock Boppin' Baby" (as "Edwin Bruce"). In 1962, he wrote "Save Your Kisses" for pop star Tommy Roe and in 1963 he reached No. 109 on the Billboard "Bubbling Under" chart with his own recording of "See the Big Man Cry" (Wand 140), both published by Bill Justis at Tuneville Music. Charlie Louvin recorded "See the Big Man Cry" (Capitol 5369) in 1965; Louvin's version reached No. 7 on the Billboard "Country Singles" chart. During his career, many songs that Bruce wrote and recorded were more successful when re-recorded by others.

In the early 1960s, Bruce recorded for RCA and some smaller labels like Wand/Scepter, singing rockabilly music, as well as more pop-oriented material such as "See the Big Man Cry." In 1966, he returned to RCA and recorded "Puzzles", "The Price I Pay to Stay" and "Lonesome Is Me". He still did not achieve great charting action. He made money doing voice-overs for television and radio commercials. He scored his first charted single with "Walker's Woods" in 1967, and also charted with his version of The Monkees' "Last Train to Clarksville." Both of these singles were minor hits. In 1969, Bruce signed with Monument Records, where he continued to have minor successes with "Everybody Wants To Get To Heaven" and "Song For Jenny".

Meanwhile, he continued to write songs like "The Man That Turned My Mama On," which was a major hit for Tanya Tucker in 1974 and "Restless" for Crystal Gayle the same year. He signed with United Artists Records in 1973 and released several singles, but only one single in 1974 became a minor hit. He finally made the upper regions of the charts when he made the Top 20 on the country charts with his version of "Mamas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys", a song he co-wrote in 1976.

Two more Top 40 hits followed for Bruce in 1976, and in 1977, he signed with Epic Records where he would score minor hits. In 1978, "Mamas Don't Let Your Babies Grow up to Be Cowboys" was recorded by Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings. It became a major hit and continued the upward swing in Bruce's career. In 1979, Tanya Tucker took Bruce's 1977 song "Texas (When I Die)" into the country Top 5.

In 1980, Bruce signed with MCA Records, where he would score his biggest successes. His early hits with MCA included "Diane", "The Last Cowboy Song", "When You Fall In Love (Everything's A Waltz)", "Evil Angel", and "Love's Found You And Me". His biggest hit, "You're the Best Break This Old Heart Ever Had" went to number one on the country chart in 1982. This also was Bruce's first Top 10 as a singer after 15 years. He had other hit songs that made the Top 10 like "Ever, Never Lovin' You", "My First Taste of Texas", and "After All".

In 1984, he returned to RCA Records and scored a No. 3 hit with "You Turn Me On Like A Radio" in 1985. His last Top 10 single was "Nights" in 1986 and his last Top 40 single (and last chart single to date) was "Quietly Crazy" in 1987.

During this time, Bruce began to act and do commercials. One of his biggest acting roles was as the second lead on the television revival of 1957's Maverick, called Bret Maverick. Starring James Garner as a legendary western gambler, the series ran on NBC-TV during the 1981-82 season but was unexpectedly canceled despite respectable ratings. Bruce played the surly town lawman who found himself reluctantly co-owning a saloon with Maverick, with whom he seemed to maintain a surreally adversarial relationship more or less throughout the entire season. Bruce also sang and wrote the theme song to the show, while Garner himself sang the same song over the end titles at the show's close, albeit while being relentlessly interrupted by network announcements about upcoming programming.

After the 1986 album entitled Night Things and a 1988 self-titled follow-up, Bruce made a conscious decision to cut back on his music to focus on his acting career, appearing in several made-for-TV films. He hosted two shows in the late 1980s, Truckin' USA and American Sports Cavalcade. Bruce has also appeared in several theatrical releases, including Fire Down Below with Steven Seagal.

Bruce was honored with the Arkansas Country Music Award for "Lifetime Achievement" on June 3, 2018 at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
 

Fellow Artists Remember Hitmaker K.T. Oslin, Who Passed Away December 21

 

Dec 22, 2020

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame member K.T. Oslin has passed away at age 78. Some of her most legendary hits include, “Hold Me,” “Do Ya’,” “Come Next Monday,” “I’ll Always Come Back,” “80’s Ladies” and more. As a songwriter, Oslin’s songs we recorded by artists such as Gail Davies, The Judds, Dottie West, Judy Rodman, and Sissy Spacek.

Fellow artists mourn the loss of their friend and share fond memories that have left them forever inspired by K.T. Oslin.

“The Oak Ridge Boys are saddened by the loss of the Eighties Lady, K.T. Oslin. We didn’t know her very well, but anytime we met, she was always gracious and first-class all the way. REST EASY K.T.” – Joe Bonsall, The Oak Ridge Boys

 

“I am very sorry to hear that K.T. Oslin passed away. My prayers are with her and her family during this time.” – Lee Greenwood

 

“K.T. was a great artist, with an instantly identifiable voice and a Hall of Fame songwriter, who was a joy to hang out with. She had a big smile, a big heart, and a big laugh! She was a sweet soul and we are all going to miss her. Condolences to her friends and family. Rest easy, sister.” – T. Graham Brown

 

“We’ve lost another great one! K.T. Oslin had such an amazing voice and will be missed. Prayers to her family during this time.” – Johnny Lee

 

“I am very saddened by K.T.’s passing. I am a huge fan of her music.” – B.J. Thomas

 

“K.T. made a big impact on country music with her style, flair, and talented, unique voice during the Eighties Ladies era. My prayers go out to her family and friends.” – Janie Fricke

K.T. Oslin was truly the ultimate 80’s Lady… and so much more! Her spicy southern wit, mixed with her amazing voice, musical talent, and theatrical flair was a one of a kind recipe making her larger than life personality a delicious, sensual, soul stew that made country music lovers all over the world fall in love! The honesty in her heartfelt, velvety voice could mesmerize, make you laugh and cry all at the same time! I always loved her as an artist! And, I count it as one of life’s true blessings to have gotten to spend quality time with K.T., laughing and talking and getting to know her as a friend! We had so much fun! It makes me sad to think of her being gone, but she gave us all so much, that even through my sadness, just thinking about her makes me smile!

 

God Bless You K.T…Carry on.” – Deborah Allen

 

“She was the ultimate 80’s lady.” – Lacy J. Dalton

 

“K.T. Oslin was one of my music heroes because she never gave up on her dream. She signed with a major label in her 40’s and had her first #1 record at the age of 45. I am ashamed to say. that in our youth-driven climate, that often listens with its eyes and not its ears, she would be a rarity today. She was an 80’s lady with “balls,” and I loved the passionate way she approached every song she sang. I often sing her song “Do Ya” in my roadshow–and I try to bring the same sass and class to the song as she did.” – Tim Atwood

 

“2020 just keeps rollin’ in the sad news. The Nashville music community lost another great one today with K.T. Oslin. Prayers to her family during this difficult time.” – JD Shelburne

 

“K.T. Oslin was a great artist that taught us about life, love, joy, and pain, who also had the ability to connect with her audience like no other. Her music was awesome and soulful. I loved how she would squeeze every note and deliver a masterful expression of each song. I remember when I first heard her hit “Do Ya.” WOW! Rest In Peace K.T. and for sharing your life with us all.”– Carl Ray

 

“The news of K.T.’s passing is so sad for all women in country music. She was a spitfire & a trailblazer for so many & will truly be missed! My prayers go out to her family and friends during this season.”– Paige King Johnson

“Another sad day in country music. We lost another great one! Rest well, K.T. Oslin. Thanks for leaving a legacy and the message that it’s never too late to chase after your dreams! Our thoughts and prayers to her fans and family!” – Danica Hart, Chapel Hart

 

“R.I.P. K.T. Oslin. You forged a path for women in country music that will inspire and encourage women to not let go of their dreams. You showed the world that talent is ageless.” – JD Reynolds