This past Saturday, we lost yet another country music icon, as Mickey Gilley passed away at the age of 86.
Gilley was a country music superstar in the ’70s and ’80s, and was also famous for his world-famous honky tonk Gilley’s in Pasadena, Texas, which he opened in 1971.
Gilley’s served as the setting for the 1980 movie “Urban Cowboy,” which starred John Travolta and Johnny Lee.
He also opened a theater in Branson, Missouri, where he would often perform, all the way up until his recent death.
Needless to say, the man left one helluva mark on the country music industry, and was beloved by his family, and fellow musicians.
With that being said, a number of country stars have shown their respects for Gilley, posting a number of heartfelt tributes to their lost friend.
Randy Travis said:
“When the roll was called up yonder the other day, we were all surprised that Mickey Gilley’s name was on it; but, I bet Mickey was ready. He was just coming off the road, and power slid into Heaven’s gate– that’s the way he lived his life.
Mickey not only left his fingerprint on the world of music, music venues, and the big screen…he left a piece of himself in each of our hearts ‘at closing time.’ As his room in Heaven fills with roses, our sadness on Earth is overshadowed by our gratitude for the life and legacy left behind by our friend, Mickey Gilley. We hope that piano up there is well tuned and ready to go!
I loved covering this ol’ Texas boy George Strait’s tune at Gilley’s in 1986– I always loved playing there.
Our kind thoughts and gently prayers are sent to Cindy and the entire family, with love-
Randy Travis”
Singer and actress Marie Osmond also shared her thoughts:
“Another legend has moved on. What an honor to have known you my friend; I’ll cherish all the memories working with you through the years! God bless you #MickeyGilley. #RIP”
The Oak Ridge Boys posted to Twitter:
“Just heard that MIKEY GILLEY has just passed away … wow … another singing friend has gone home … Bye Mickey … until the day”
Famed college and NFL coach Barry Switzer also shared:
“We lost one of the cousins today! Mickey Gilley from Ferriday, Louisiana! Name me cousins can play the piano like these three Jimmy Swaggart, Jerry Lee Lewis! I think they’re all 86?”
Mark Chesnutt shared:
“Just heard we lost another legend. I loved Mickey Gilley even before the Urban Cowboy fame. I remember buying all of his records and loving everything he put out. You be missed buddy!”
