We said goodbye to a country music legend yesterday.
At 86 years old, the great Charley Pride passed away due to complications from COVID-19. A trailblazer in every sense of the word, Charley’s impact on the country music community, and music in general, is in a league of its own.
The Grammy winner was first black superstar in country music, the first black member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, and one of only three black members of the Grand Ole Opry. He was a pioneer, a hero, an inspiration and by the accounts of many, a damn good human being.
The country music world is heartbroken at the loss of a friend, and many haven taken to social media to share their condolences and their memories, and to reflect back on the legacy of this country music icon.
Rest In Peace. My love and thoughts go out to his family and all of his fans. – Dolly (2/2)
— Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) December 12, 2020
I had the pleasure of meeting Charley Pride when I was playing the @opry. I was in awe of his presence and his talent. So saddened by the news of his passing. He was a true legend and trailblazer. His impact on our genre and generations of artists will never be forgotten. Rip
— Luke Combs 🎤 (@lukecombs) December 12, 2020
What a sweet & legendary man. Whenever he saw you he would offer a smile & tell you your birthday. I don’t know how he remembered, but he always did…I’m so glad I got a few chances to be in the presence of Charley. Rest In Peace & sing with the angels… https://t.co/SOfMJ950sP
— Carrie Underwood (@carrieunderwood) December 13, 2020
RIP Charley Pride…. I shot a commercial with Charley once in Fort Worth!! Class act all the way!! #legend
— Casey Donahew (@caseydband) December 12, 2020
Heartbreaking. I truly loved my friend, Charley Pride. The world will never be the same. He was one of the very best things that ever happened to country music. I'm all tears tonight. #charleypride #KissAnAngelGoodMorning #ihatecovid19 pic.twitter.com/5iOdJNbDuv
— Loretta Lynn (@LorettaLynn) December 13, 2020
We lost a member of the greatest family in country music tonight…from the circle to heaven – this one is for you Charley. @opry pic.twitter.com/apqA0gcRO5
— ChrisYoungMusic (@ChrisYoungMusic) December 13, 2020
My heart is so heavy. Charley Pride was an icon a legend and any other word u wanna use for his greatness. He destroyed Barriers and did things that no one had ever done. But today I’m thinking of my friend. Heaven just got one of the finest people I know. I miss and love u CP!
— Darius Rucker (@dariusrucker) December 13, 2020
I remember my granddaddy playing two different styles of music in the truck growing up. One was Creedence Clearwater and the other was Charley Pride. So many memories listening to his music. Rest In Peace king.
— Koe Wetzel (@KoeWetzel) December 12, 2020
I’m very VERY sorry to hear the terrible news about Charley Pride.. Kiss An Angel Good Morning is one of my first memories of country music.
— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) December 12, 2020
As a man, he’ll always be an inspiration. He worked hard no matter what obstacle he faced and his willingness to break down racial barriers changed our world for the better. We love you and thank you. Our hearts go out to Rozene and the family. We will miss you Charley. pic.twitter.com/sidAai0vzn
— Tim McGraw (@TheTimMcGraw) December 12, 2020
So saddened to hear that we've lost one of the greats, Charley Pride. A trailblazer in country music and an incredible songwriter, a huge inspiration to me ❤️ pic.twitter.com/5JQzT322CS
— Shania Twain 💎 (@ShaniaTwain) December 13, 2020
Charley Pride will always be a legend in Country music. He will truly be missed but will always be remembered for his great music, wonderful personality and his big heart. My thoughts are with his wife Rozene and their family. RIP, Charley. pic.twitter.com/2IYFfx4kLo
— Reba (@reba) December 12, 2020
It’s a sad day for American music, baseball, and generations of kids who very much needed a hero. #RIPCharleyPride
— Jason Isbell (@JasonIsbell) December 12, 2020
Just learning of the passing of another one of our legends in Country Music. I can’t imagine what this man went through as a Black Country Music artist trying to break into this business, but what a career he had. RIP Mr. Charley Pride. pic.twitter.com/noOQJzgaMm
— Jason Aldean (@Jason_Aldean) December 12, 2020
So saddened to hear about the passing of Charley Pride. Prayers for his wife Rozene and his family.
— Martina McBride (@martinamcbride) December 12, 2020
