National Radio Hall of Famer and Country Top 40 host Bob Kingsley passes

Chronicle: National Radio Hall of Famer and Country Top 40 host Bob Kingsley passed away Thursday (Oct 17) in Weatherford, TX following a battle with bladder cancer. He was 80.

Kingsley's radio career began in with the Armed Forces Radio Service station in Keflavik, Iceland in 1959 while serving in the Air Force. 

His early career stops included Country KGBS/Los Angeles and KLAC/Los Angeles, programming the latter following its flip into Country in 1970. Four years later, Kingsley became the producer of nationally syndicated American Country Countdown started one year earlier by Casey Kasem and Don Bustany. In 1978, Kingsley succeeded the show's original host, Don Bowman, where he remained until 2005.

In 2006, Kingsley launched Bob Kingsley's Country Top 40, which he hosted until his passing. Throughout his career, Kingsley garnered numerous industry accolades, twice being named CMA's National Broadcast Personality of the Year, winning ACM National Broadcast Personality of the Year once and earning Billboard's Network/Syndicated Program of the Year 16 times. The CRB/Country Aircheck Awards named Kingsley National Air Personality of the Year three times and the CRB Presidents Award was bestowed upon him in 2012.

He was inducted into the Country Radio Hall of Fame in 1998 and became the format's fifth representative in the National Radio Hall of Fame upon his induction in 2016. Kingsley was also the inaugural recipient of the Living Legend Award, later named for him, in 2014.

A celebration of life will be held at the CMA Theater in the Country Music Hall of Fame Nov. 14 at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Kingsley’s name to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum or the Grand Ole Opry Trust Fund.

TRIBUTES:

Chris Country Radio: We have some sad news to share. Bob Kingsley, presenter of country music countdown shows for over 40 years, including the Country Top 40 here on Chris Country since our launch, has passed away at the age of 80 at his home in Texas.

Bob's reassuring voice has been part of the lives of so many country fans, and we'll miss him terribly on the station. We send all of our love and prayers to his wife Nan and his family. Bob's impact on radio, and country music, will never be forgotten.

Bob Kingsley, radio legend and National Radio Hall of Fame member, has died at age 80 https://t.co/45hTAdzSbr

— billboard (@billboard) October 17, 2019

Rest In Peace to Bob Kingsley . I spent many weekends as a kid listening to his countdown. And spent many occasions as I got older telling him how much I admired him. This picture is just one of those occasions. Rest easy friend. pic.twitter.com/JQDVumL9uN

— Bobby Bones (@mrBobbyBones) October 17, 2019

SiriusXM The Highway: Devastating news in the world of country music...the iconic radio host Bob Kingsley has passed away from cancer at the age of 80. Bob was a great friend and mentor to so many in the radio world, including some of our own here at The Highway...RIP, Bob #StormeWarrenShow

He was a friend. Not just an associate within the business, but a true friend. He was also a true friend of the genre of country music, and it will never be the same without his voice. I'm going to miss him." Kenny Chesney encapsulates an outpouring of memories and grief across all of country music at today's passing of National Radio Hall of Famer and Country Top 40 host Bob

As previously reported, the service will take place on Thursday, November 14th at 1p (CT) at the CMA THEATER at the Country Music Hall Of Fame And Museum.

Country Aircheck Remembering Bob Kingsley Special: PDF - Magazine View

And The Countdown Rolls On: Following National Radio Hall of Famer and Country Top 40 host Bob Kingsley's passing last week (Chronicle 10/17), Capitol's Keith Urban will helm the countdown this weekend (Oct. 26-27) while Pearl's Garth Brooks will host the final four shows of 2019.

The team at KCCS Productions will continue producing Bob Kingsley's Country Top 40 for distribution via Westwood One and will also offer affiliates 25 Years Of Bob Kingsley's Christmas In America, a best-of compilation of Kingsley's previous holiday specials.

Country Music Hall of Fame member Mac Wiseman passes aged 93

Chronicle: Country Music Hall of Fame member Mac Wiseman passed away Sunday (Feb 24) at the age of 93.

Wiseman is known for his Dot Records interpretations of songs including "Shackles And Chains," "Jimmy Brown The Newsboy," "I’ll Be All Smiles Tonight" and "Love Letters In The Sand." He was also a sideman with Flatt & Scruggs and Bill Monroe, a featured vocalist with Molly O’Day, country recording director for Dot (1955–59) and a founding member and first secretary of CMA (1958).

Wiseman moved to Nashville in 1969 and signed with RCA Victor. His first -- and only -- hit for the label was the Top 40 novelty tune "If I Had Johnny's Cash and Charley's Pride." While at RCA, he also recorded three well-received bluegrass albums with Lester Flatt.

From the mid-'70s on, Wiseman concentrated on bluegrass, becoming a fixture at festivals and releasing a series of records on independent records that ran into the '90s.

In 1993 he was inducted into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame.

Wiseman stayed active into the 21st century, releasing eight albums on Music Hill between 2001 and 2005, including 2003's THE LOST ALBUM, drawn from sessions done in 1964 for Capitol. A duets album with John Prine, Standard Songs for Average People, appeared from Prine's Oh Boy Records in 2007, with a trio of independently released albums, Old Likker in a New Jug, Waiting for the Boys to Come Home, and Bluegrass Tradition arriving in 2008.

Wiseman continued a low-key recording career in the 2010s, releasing Songs from MY MOTHER'S HAND in 2014 and the star-studded I SANG THE SONG in 2017.

Shackles and Chains

“Mac Wiseman recorded splendid and often groundbreaking music for over 70 years. He also helped found the CMA, headed Dot Records’ country division, and was a titan of bluegrass music’s first generation. His was an inspirational and important life.” - Kyle Young, CEO pic.twitter.com/n3oOKqQ5ss

— Country Music HOF (@countrymusichof) 24 February 2019

"Mac Wiseman recorded splendid and often groundbreaking music for more than seventy years, remaining relevant and productive even in his nineties," says CMHoF CEO Kyle Young. "He was a titan of bluegrass music's first generation, though bluegrass never defined him. He helped found the CMA, he headed Dot Records' country division, and he recorded with everyone from big band legend Woody Herman to Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Duane Eddy to Americana poet laureate John Prine. His was an inspirational and important American life."

"Mac Wiseman was not only a key figure in the history of country music, but also in the history of our organization," adds CMA CEO Sarah Trahern. "I enjoyed my personal relationship with Mac, and both he and Jo Walker Meador shared rich stories of the early days of CMA. Mac made a broad impact on both the music and business sides of our industry. He deeply understood how country music worked thanks to his eclectic history, and he was an early adopter of the idea that our format is strengthened when we all step into the circle together." Read Country Aircheck's coverage of Wiseman's CMHoF induction here. and 2014 Medallion Ceremony Highlights on >> YouTube

Wild Side of Life

Mac Wiseman: On Susan's Floor (4-CD) – Bear Family Records

4-CD Box Set, LP-size with 60-page hardcover book. 114 tracks. Plying time 303:36 minutes. 

CLICK to ENLARGE

Mac Wiseman: 'Tis Sweet To Be Remembered (6-CD) – Bear Family Records

6-CD box (LP-size) with 76-page hardcover book, 164 tracks. Playing time approx. 418 mns.

HALL OF FAME Oct, 2014, With Mac Wiseman (Inductee)

ARTICLES

Mac Wiseman Was One of the Very Last Links to Country’s Historic Past – Saving Country Music

Mac Wiseman, country and bluegrass great, dead at 93 – The Tennessean

Mac Wiseman, First published in Country Music People, August 1973 by Alan Cackett www.alancackett.com

TRIBUTES

Charlie Daniels: A bluegrass legend left us this morning at the age of 93 Mac Wiseman was one of the gentlest people I knew He had a one in a million voice and left us a legacy of  unique music that stretched across seven decades I was honored to call him friend May he Rest In Peace eternally

Country Music People: Pretty soon there will be no legends walking among us. RIP Mac Wiseman

Jerry Douglas: Yesterday February 23rd we lost the last Foggy Mountain Boy, Mac Wiseman. He was just three months shy of his 93rd birthday. He leaves behind a legacy rich in important landmarks and his knowledge of all

Ricky Skaggs: It’s hard to say the name Mac Wiseman and not hear his voice in your head. It was one of the most unique voices in Bluegrass and Country Music. I loved his voice and his ease of singing, but the one thing I will remember... - Ricky Skaggs

Sierra Hull: ‏RIP Mac Wiseman. What a voice and what a career. I’m so grateful to have had a chance to record with him and visit with him at his home a few times in recent years to hear his stories. He was always sharp as a tack and so gracious to me and Justin. He will be missed greatly!!

Just heard that the great Mac Wiseman passed away. He was so influential in Country and Bluegrass music and was one of the sweetest fellas in the business. He’ll be missed. pic.twitter.com/aX4JlJ74Ew

— Teea Goans (@teeagoans) 24 February 2019

Tim O'Brien: RIP Mac Wiseman. A true musical pioneer who did it all. Nobody sang like Mac.

The Gibson Brothers: RIP Mac Wiseman. What a voice. What a legend. We learned so many of his songs growing up to make our dad happy because Mac was one of his favorites. One of ours too.

The Po' Ramblin Boys: Rest In Peace to “The Voice with a Heart.” Mac Wiseman left a mark on Bluegrass music that cannot be erased. Thanks for all the great music and history Mac! We will miss you dearly

Country Music Hall Of Famer Maxine Brown Russell passes at 87

Country Music Hall of Fame Member Maxine Brown Russell Passes

In Little Rock With Family By Her Side

Maxine Brown Russell - Courtesy of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Nashville, TN (January 21, 2019) - Maxine Brown Russell, the vivacious entertainer, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend passed at Bowman Hospice in Little Rock, Arkansas on Monday January 21, 2019 from complications of heart and kidney disease at the age of 87. Her family was by her side.

Born April 27, 1931 in Campti, Louisiana, Russell was predeceased by her parents, Floyd and Birdie Brown, sisters Bonnie Ring and Norma Sullivan, brothers Jim Ed Brown and Raymond Brown, and her son, Tommy H. Russell, Jr.  She is survived by two children, Jimmy Russell (Mary) and Alicia Short (Curtis), six grandchildren (Caitlin, Daniel, Meredith, Eva, Patrick, and Katherine), and two great-grandchildren (Atlas and Aina).

As one-third of the popular Country trio The Browns, Maxine enjoyed a lengthy career that spanned the 1950s and '60s. The group released multiple "million-sellers," including "The Three Bells" (>> YouTube), "The Old Lamplighter," "Scarlet Ribbons," and "Send Me The Pillow You Dream On."

As a songwriter, her first taste of success came with The Browns' release of "Looking Back To See."

Maxine was the "cut up" of the globally-renowned trio, and always the life of the party during the group's tours, including jaunts in the U.K and Japan. The Browns joined The Grand Ole Opry in 1963 and appeared on hit television shows of the day, including: The Ed Sullivan Show, The Arthur Murray Show, The Perry Como Show, American Bandstand with Dick Clark, and The Jerry Lewis Show.

In 2012, Russell was awarded the Ella Dicky Literary Award for her 2005 autobiography, Looking Back To See. 
The Browns were proud members of The Arkansas Entertainers Hall of Fame, The Arkansas Walkway of Stars, The Missouri Walkway of Stars, and recipient of aLifetime Achievement Award from The Arkansas Country Music Hall of Fame. 

In 2015, The Browns were inducted into the prestigious Country Music Hall of Fame.

Funeral services are being planned and will be announced soon.

The Browns: The Three Bells (8-CD) Bear Family Records

8-CD boxed set (LP-size) with 40-page book, 258 tracks. Playing time approx. 616 mins.

The Browns, Jim Ed and sisters Maxine and Bonnie, rose to the top of the country and pop charts in 1959 with their recording of 'The Three Bells'. One of the finest harmony groups in country music, the Browns were part of the transition from hillbilly music to the Nashville sound, with a little rock 'n' roll on the side. This retrospective covers the Browns from their earliest recordings for Fabor in 1954, including the hit Looking Back To See, and follows their RCA career through such giant hits as I Heard The Bluebirds Sing, I Take The Chance, The Old Lamplighter, Scarlet Ribbonsand of course The Three Bells under producer-guitarist Chet Atkins's guiding hand. This is essential listening for those who love close family harmony singing.

Remembering Roy Clark, the Country Music Community Reacts To His Passing

TULSA, Okla. – Roy Clark, the legendary 'superpicker', GRAMMY (8 Nominations 1 Win; Grammy Page), CMA (23 Nominations; 7 Wins; Entertainer of the Year 1973)  and ACM (9 Wins; Entertainer of the Year 1972-1973 ACM Artist Page), Country Music Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry member and co-host of the famed 'Hee Haw' television series, died today at the age of 85 due to complications from pneumonia at home in Tulsa, Okla.

Roy Clark’s decade-defying success could be summed up in one word — sincerity. Sure, he was one of the world’s finest multi-instrumentalists, and one of the first cross-over artists to land singles on both the pop and country charts. He was the pioneer who turned Branson, Mo., into the live music capitol of the world (the Ozark town today boasts more seats than Broadway). And his talents turned Hee Haw into the longest-running syndicated show in television history.

But the bottom line for Roy Clark was the honest warmth he gave to his audiences. Bob Hope summed it up when he told Roy, “Your face is like a fireplace.”

“A TV camera goes right through your soul,” says the man who starred on Hee Haw for 24 years and was a frequent guest host for Johnny Carson on The Tonight Show. “If you’re a bad person, people pick that up. I’m a firm believer in smiles. I used to believe that everything had to be a belly laugh. But I’ve come to realize that a real sincere smile is mighty powerful.”

Roy Clark 'Hee Haw' interview (courtesy of Time Life):

For a man who didn’t taste major success until he was 30, the key was not some grand plan but rather taking everything in its own time. “Sure,” he said, “I had dreams of being a star when I was 18. I could’ve pushed it too, but it wouldn’t have happened any sooner. I’m lucky. What’s happened has happened in spite of me.”

In fact, that’s what Clark titled his autobiography, My Life — In Spite of Myself! with Marc Elliot (Simon & Shuster, 1994). The book reminded many that there is much more to Roy Clark than fast fingers and a quick wit.

That he was raised in Washington, D.C., often surprises people. Born Roy Linwood Clark on April 15, 1933 in Meherrin, Virginia, his family moved to D.C. when he was a youngster. His father played in a square dance band and took him to free concerts by the National Symphony and by various military bands. "I was subjected to different kinds of music before I ever played. Dad said, 'Never turn your ear off to music until your heart hears it--because then you might hear something you like.'"

Beginning on banjo and mandolin, he was one of those people "born with the music already in them." His first guitar, a Sears Silvertone, came as a Christmas present when he was 14. That same year, 1947, he made his first TV appearance. He was 15 when he earned $2 for his first paid performance, with his dad's band. In the fertile, diverse musical soil of cosmopolitan D.C., he began playing bars and dives on Friday and Saturday nights until he was playing every night and skipping school--eventually dropping out at 15. "Music was my salvation, the thing I loved most and did best. Whatever was fun, I'd go do that."

The guitar wizard soon went on tour with country legends such as Hank Williams and Grandpa Jones. After winning a national banjo competition in 1950, he was invited to perform at the Grand Ole Opry, which led to shows with Red Foley and Ernest Tubb. Yet he'd always return to D.C. to play not only country but jazz, pop, and early rock'n'roll (he's prominently featured in the recent book Capitol Rock); to play with black groups and white groups; to play fast, to even play guitar with his feet. In 1954, he joined Jimmy Dean and the Texas Wildcats, appearing in clubs and on radio and TV, and even backing up Elvis Presley.

But in 1960, he was 27 and still scrambling. An invitation to open for Wanda Jackson at the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas proved to be his big break. It led to his own tour, on the road for 345 straight nights at one stretch, and when he returned to Vegas in 1962, he came back as a headliner and recording star, with his debut album The Lightning Fingers Of Roy Clark. The next year, he had his first hit, The Tips Of My Fingers, a country song that featured an orchestra and string section. "We didn't call it crossover then but I guess that's what it was," he says. "We didn't aim for that, because if you aim for both sides you miss them both. But we just wanted to be believable."

He was--on record and on TV, where his first appearances in 1963 on 'The Tonight Show' and 'American Bandstand' showcased his easygoing attitude and rural sense of humor. "Humor is a blessing to me. My earliest recollections are of looking at something and seeing the lighter side. But it's always spontaneous. I couldn't write a comedy skit for someone else."

Images Courtesy of Time Life

Throughout the '60s, Clark recorded several albums, toured constantly, and appeared on TV variety shows from Carson to Mike Douglas to Flip Wilson. "I was the token bumpkin. It became, 'Let's get that Clark guy. He's easy to get along with.'" Then came 'Hee Haw.' A countrified 'Laugh-In' with music, shot in Nashville, 'Hee Haw' premiered in 1969. Co-starring Clark and Buck Owens, it was an immediate hit. Though CBS cancelled the show after two-and-a-half years, despite ranking in the Top 20, the series segued into syndication, where it remained until 1992. "I long ago realized it was not a figure of speech when people come up to me and say they grew up watching me since they were 'that big'."

Images Courtesy of Time Life

A generation or two has also grown up listening to him. In 1969, Yesterday, When I Was Young charted Top 20 Pop and #9 Country (Billboard). Including Yesterday, Clark has had 23 Top 40 country hits, among them eight Top 10s: The Tips Of My Fingers (#10, 1963), I Never Picked Cotton (#5) and Thank God And Greyhound You're Gone (#6, 1970), The Lawrence Welk-Hee Haw Counter Revolution Polka (#9, 1972), Come Live With Me (#1) and Somewhere Between Love And Tomorrow (#2, 1973), and If I Had It To Do All Over Again (#2, 1976). In addition, his 12-string guitar rendition of Malaguena is considered a classic and, in 1982, he won a Grammy (Best Country Instrumental Performance) for Alabama Jubilee.

A consummate musician, no matter the genre, he co-starred with Petula Clark at Caesar's Palace, became the first country artist to headline at the Montreux International Jazz Festival and appeared in London on 'The Tom Jones Show.' Clark was amazed when guitarists from England credited his BBC specials and performances on variety TV shows with the likes of the Jackson 5 for inspiring them to play. But the highlight of his career, he said, was a pioneering, sold-out 1976 tour of the then-Soviet Union. "Even though they didn't know the words, there were tears in their eyes when I played Yesterday. Folks there said we wouldn't realize in our lifetime the good we'd accomplished, just because of our pickin' around."

When he returned in 1988 to now-Russia, Clark was hailed as a hero. Though he'd never bought a joke and doesn't read music, the self-described, and proud of it, "hillbilly singer" was that rare entertainer with popularity worthy of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and respect worthy of the Academy of Country Music's Pioneer Award and membership in the Gibson (Guitar) Hall of Fame; an entertainer who could star in Las Vegas (the first country artist inducted into its Entertainers Hall of Fame), in Nashville (becoming the 63rd member of the Grand Ole Opry in 1987), and at Carnegie Hall. Roy was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2009.

Roy’s many good deeds on behalf of his fellow man led to him receiving the 1999 Minnie Pearl Humanitarian of the Year Award from TNN’s Music City News Awards. In October, 2000, he was inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, and he was actively involved with school children who attend the Roy Clark Elementary School in Tulsa, Okla.

From his home in Tulsa, where he moved in 1974 with Barbara, his wife of 61 years, Clark continued to tour extensively. For him — and for his legion of loyal fans — live performance was what it was all about. “Soon as you hit the edge of the stage and see people smiling and know they’re there to hear you, it’s time to have fun. I keep a band of great young people around me, and we’re not musically restrained. It’s not about ‘let’s do it correct’ but ‘let’s do it right.’”

At the end of each of Roy’s concerts, he would tell the audience, “We had to come, but you had a choice. Thanks for being here.” With responding smiles, audiences continued to thank Roy for being there, too.

Roy is preceded in death by his beloved grandson Elijah Clark who passed at the age of fourteen on September 24, 2018. Roy is survived by Barbara, his wife of sixty-one years, his sons Roy Clark II and wife Karen, Dr. Michael Meyer and wife Robin, Terry Lee Meyer, Susan Mosier and Diane Stewart, and his grandchildren: Brittany Meyer, Michael Meyer, Caleb Clark, Josiah Clark and his sister, Susan Coryell.

A memorial celebration will be held in the coming days in Tulsa, Okla., details forthcoming.

ROY CLARK IS REMEMBERED BY FELLOW MUSIC LEGENDS

"Roy Clark was one of the greatest ever. His spirit will never die. I loved him dearly and he will be missed." – Dolly Parton

"When I came to Nashville, Roy was one of my favorite stars. I loved the way he hosted the CMA's and Hee Haw. It was always an honor to be on the same stage with him. I am already missing Roy's big smile." – Crystal Gayle

"The Halsey family’s hearts are filled with gratitude for the many years (59) of friendship and business association. He was a rare combination of talent and generosity. Roy Clark brought a special kind of healing to the world. He will be missed by the multitudes. – Jim Halsey, friend and manager

"My story is not unique. How many guitar players started with a Roy Clark guitar method book? How many guitars were sold to people wanting to play because of him? How many lives were made better because of his wit and joy? I’m one of so many." – @BradPaisley

"When the Nashville floods wiped out most of my guitars, Roy heard about it & showed up at a show and gave me one of his. This is who this man was. Constantly giving. I owe him so much. Go say hi to my Papaw for me Roy. You left the world a much better place. #royclark" – Brad Paisley

"Roy Clark shaped my path. My Papaw introduced me to his music as a toddler. Every Saturday we’d watch Hee Haw. My first guitar book was a Roy Clark guitar method. I practiced his style, then practiced making his facial expressions. He was a hero. And so many have the same story." – Brad Paisley

"I remember Roy as a great musician and singer. But more than that, he was a great human being. Always laughing, always uplifting to those around him. Doing shows with Roy on Hee Haw was such a wonderful experience. There is a vacant spot in Nashville now that he is gone. RIP Roy Clark" – Lee Greenwood

"Getting to REALLY know Roy Clark is one of highlights of my country career. I first met him on HEE HAW and the went on to do dozens of shows with him over the years. He was a good friend, we laughed a lot together and he loved Duke's mayonnaise on his tomato sandwiches." – T. Graham Brown

"My first CMA memory is sitting on my living room floor watching Roy Clark tear it up. Sending my love and respect to him and his family for all he did. - KU" - Keith Urban

"Just got word that Roy Clark has passed. I’ve known him for 60 years and he was a fine musician and entertainer Rest In Peace Buddy, you will be remembered" – Charlie Daniels

"Roy, thank you for always spreading laughter, kindness, and positivity. We'll keep it goin' for ya!" – @Opry

"Just heard Hee Haw Star / Super Picker #RoyClark just passed away. Saw him last when we filmed #CountrysFamilyReunion He was always so kind. Heaven gained another amazing addition to the Angel Band. Rest In Peace Roy" – Rhonda Vincent

Just heard Hee Haw Star / Super Picker #RoyClark just passed away. Saw him last when we filmed #CountrysFamilyReunion He was always so kind. Heaven gained another amazing addition to the Angel Band. Rest In Peace Roy pic.twitter.com/9h70Nw66tX

— Rhonda Vincent (@RhondaVincent13) 15 November 2018

"I had the honor of playing with Roy Clark on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry and many times and on the television series Hee Haw. I looked up to Roy; he was the consummate entertainer. But the things I will remember most about Roy are his big, over-the-top, cheesy grin, and how, from the moment I met him, he made me feel like I had known him forever. Roy Clark was a good man... the real deal." – Tim Atwood

"Rest In Peace friend, brother, mentor .... Roy Clark ..." – Oak Ridge Boys

"Growing up watching #HeeHaw, I knew nobody could pick-&-grin like the great #RoyClark. And his #YesterdayWhenIWasYoung is one of the great songs of Country or any kind of music. A true legend. We will miss him. #RIP" - Terry Fator

"Wonderful Roy Clark was a great talent & a kind & gentle man. We had so much fun singing & dancing together. My love goes out to his family & friends. #royclark #rip" – Mitzi Gaynor

Wonderful Roy Clark was a great talent & a kind & gentle man. We had so much fun singing & dancing together. My love goes out to his family & friends. #royclark #rip pic.twitter.com/ayG205xcy3

— Mitzi Gaynor (@TheMitziGaynor) 15 November 2018

"We're sorry to hear about the passing of Roy Clark. Roy Clark made best use of his incredible talent. He was both a showman and a virtuoso, with a love of music that beamed across air waves and into millions of living rooms, where families gathered to watch and listen." – Country Music Hall Of Fame

We're sorry to hear about the passing of Roy Clark. Roy Clark made best use of his incredible talent. He was both a showman and a virtuoso, with a love of music that beamed across air waves and into millions of living rooms, where families gathered to watch and listen. pic.twitter.com/FD8lYeejZR

— Country Music HOF (@countrymusichof) 15 November 2018

"R.I.P. Roy Clark. Oh man so many memories growing up with him on hee haw. Another part of my childhood that made growing up the way I did awesome. Hee Haw, Johnny Carson, Paul Harvey among others are everywhere in my memory bank. He lived a long great life and I thank him. SALUTE" – @GitRDoneLarry

"Roy Clark was a very sweet Man that loved Jesus and country music. Heaven just got a great picker! Can’t wait to see him do some pickin’ and grinnin’ on them heavenly hay bales." – @GitRDoneLarry

"Roy's passing is overwhelming. It is truly the end of an era. Roy was Big Daddy for all of us. And for those of us who were blessed to know him as a friend and work with him, it hurts so deeply. He made so many of our careers possible. It offsets the deep anguish of his passing to know he is free from any suffering now and that his great talents are with us forever on the thousands of TV episodes, recordings and in our memories. His huge contribution to the music business and to so many of us personally is etched in our hearts forever. America loves Roy and we will all bless his memory, honor him and thank him forever. He was truly one of God’s good ones." - Jana Jae

"23 years ago, Roy Clark changed my life in an instant. It is hard to put it into words, but from the moment we first encountered each other, he knew me, believed in me and took it upon himself to give me great opportunities that otherwise would never have been possible. I can only be so grateful that I had a chance in my life to reconnect with him and tell him personally exactly what he had done for me all those years ago. The other great blessing is that I was given an opportunity to develop a meaningful friendship with this man over the last few years. It brings me great peace. I would play for him, and he would just smile and become so genuinely excited. Again, at just the right moment in my life, he became a great encourager. Roy has left a lasting impact on my life. For over 20 years I’ve been telling people the stories of how he changed my life...and I will never forget." – Kyle Dillingham

"Our deepest condolences to the family of Roy Clark. Country music has lost another giant – well-loved both for his unique talents and his generous, kind-hearted spirit." – RFD TV

"My friend of 46 years is gone and I am heartbroken. He could make me laugh like no other and now he makes me cry. His music will live forever and now the angels in heaven are picking and grinning. I love you always dear friend." - Misty Rowe

"RIP Roy Clark, was an honor to pick and sing with you" – @raybensonaatw
  

Tanya Tucker, Roy Clark and Mickey Gilley

"I lost a dear friend today and my heart hurts. Rest in peace, Roy." - Bobby Bare

"I have fond memories of my friend Roy. We shared laughter when I did guest spots on Hee Haw. I will miss him. God Bless his family and may he rest in peace." - Jerry Lee Lewis


"Roy Clark was one of the greats in the music industry, was also a great friend and we had a lot in common. We both love music and both loved aviation. I will miss my friend!" - Mickey Gilley

"When I think back on my career and the ones that helped shape me, Roy was there. As a young boy, I idolized him... as a fellow artist, I adored him. God Bless you and keep you by His side, Roy, til we meet again - I love you, Forever and Ever, Amen." - Randy Travis

Legendary Irish country music singer Big Tom McBride dies aged 81

Birth name: Tom McBride

Also known as: Big Tom

18 September 1936 (Born: Castleblayney, Monaghan, Ireland) - 17 April 2018 (aged 81)

The “giant in Irish country music” died in the early hours of Tuesday morning

His family confirmed the news hours after he “passed away peacefully” in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear father Big Tom McBride (RIP) this morning,” a statement on the singer’s official Facebook page read.

“Dad passed away peacefully in the company of his family. He will be sadly missed by all who new him. “May he rest in peace.”

McBride, whose wife Rose died in January, was hospitalised in Nov 2006 after suffering a heart attack, at the age of 70, which had put doubt into whether he would ever tour again with his band

Tributes quickly flooded in from famous fans and politicians including Taoiseach Leo Varadkar who hailed McBride a “giant in Irish country music”.

Daniel O'Donnell (L) with Big Tom

Singer Daniel O'Donnell branded him a “king” as he paid tribute. “It's just so sad,” he said. “On the other hand, he was probably heartbroken without his wife, Rose. Maybe for him, it's a gift from God.

McBride enjoyed a career spanning five decades which saw him hit the charts with Big Tom And The Mainliners.

The band, formed in the 1960s, were famous for songs including “Broken Marriage Vows” and “The Sunset Years Of Life”.

www.irish-showbands.com

Band: "Big" Tom McBride (lead vocals, saxophone, rhythm guitar), Seamus McMahon (lead guitar, fiddle, vocals), Henry McMahon (tenor sax, vocals, bandleader, percussion), John Beattie (keyboards, piano), Cyril McKevitt ( trombone, vocals), Ronnie Duffy (drums, vocals) and Ginger Morgan (Bass guitar, vocals)

Originally named as "The Mighty Mainliners Showband", the band achieved fame after appearing on RTÉ Television's Showband Show broadcast on 21 May 1966 performing “Gentle Mother” which subsequently reached No.7 in the pop charts of Ireland. In the early 1970s, the band changed their name to "The Mainliners", however soon afterwards they adopted the name "Big Tom and the Mainliners" in line with other Irish Showbands where a single man was used to take centre stage.

Although the band did not gain prominence until the mid to late 1960's, in an article in Spotlight in May, 1970, Tom McBride told reporter Donal Corvin that he formed the band with Henry McMahon when Tom returned to Ireland in 1963 after working in England for two years. Henry had also been in England.

Born in Oram, near Castleblaney, Tom McBride was one of four siblings. Reared on a farm, he left school in his teens to help out at home. In the September 30, 1976 issue of Starlight magazine, Tom told his story in his own words.

"I suppose it must have been five years that I remained working on the local farm because I was about 19 when a pal and myself headed for Scotland. Actually, it was the friend who took the notion and I fell in with the idea." Tom and his pal stayed in the Scottish Highlands for about four months before returning home to Castleblaney. He was only back for two months when he started traveling again, this time to England. "I got fixed up with Walls, the ice cream factory and there I remained for a year and a half working the night shift all the time." Tom continued, "it was around that time that I started fiddling around with a guitar, playing it at parties, things like that." Soon after, Tom headed for the Channel Islands where he got work picking tomatoes, a job that lasted another year and a half. "I liked it there," said Tom. "They had this country group whom I grew to like. They called themselves the Mainliners." Read More + Photos at www.irish-showbands.com

In 1980, Big Tom was presented with a Gold Award for sales of more than one million records.

Big Tom suffered from a fear of flying. In 1980, apparently, he undertook a sea voyage across the Atlantic Ocean to record his BLUE WINGS album in Nashville.

He later reunited with The Mainliners in 1989 and continued to perform live, appearing on the first Late Late Show Country Music Special, among other shows.

In 2000, Big Tom underwent a nodule operation on his throat.

In November 2006, Big Tom suffered a sudden heart attack at the age of 70, which had put doubt into whether he would ever tour again with his band. on 24

On 8 July 2005, a plaque was erected by the local community in Big Tom's home village of Castleblayney, County Monaghan.

In early 2016, Big Tom and the original Mainliners went on tour to mark 50 years since the release of their most enduring hit "Gentle Mother". From May until September, Big Tom and the Mainliners continued their summer tour to celebrate 50 years of "Gentle Mother"

Top 10 hits on the Irish Singles Chart:

"Gentle Mother": #7 (Jan 30, 1967) Big Tom and The Mainliners

"Old Log Cabin for Sale": #4 (Oct 21, 1967) Big Tom and The Mainliners

"The Sunset Years of Life": #3 (July 23, 1970) Big Tom and The Mainliners

"Broken Marriage Vows": #1 (Feb 19, 1972) Big Tom and The Mainliners

"I Love You Still": #1 (Jan 4, 1973) Big Tom and The Mainliners

"Old Love Letters": #1 (May 16, 1974) Big Tom and The Mainliners

"Four Country Roads": #5 (May 16, 1981) Big Tom

"Streets of Dublin City": #7 (Nov 15, 1981) Big Tom

"If I Needed You": #10 (March 18, 1984) Big Tom

"Jealous Heart": #9 (April 7, 1984) Big Tom

All About The Mainliners (1963-1982 and 2004-2018) 
DISCOGRAPHY: www.irish-showbands

He was inducted into the Irish Country Music Awards Hall of Fame in June 2016.

He leaves behind four children. Tom's wife of more than 50 years Rose died in February.

Pictured with late wife Rose

The singer Big Tom McBride, one of the icons of Irish country music, who died today aged 81, will be laid to rest in his home county of Monaghan Friday (April 20, 2018).

His funeral mass will be celebrated at 11am in Saint Patrick's Church, Oram, and he will be buried in the adjoining cemetery following the service.

There will be an opportunity for fans and friends to pay their respects between 12pm and 8pm (Thurs) in Oram Community Centre in Castleblayney (Facebook), where his remains will be lying in repose.

Mourners have been asked to respect that Big Tom's house is strictly private.

Shannonside-Northern Sound radio (96.3 FM | Northernsound.ie | Shannonside.ie) will broadcast the funeral mass at 11am on Friday.

#WATCH: Hundreds line streets to pay tribute to 'King of Country' Big Tom on his final journey pic.twitter.com/U6KVa74hZp

— Independent.ie (@Independent_ie) 18 April 2018

‘He was a lifeline for a dispossessed people’: Big Tom remembered: Country star had a huge following despite being lampooned by critics as uncool Irish Times.com

Independent.ie: We referred to him as the king' - tributes pour in as country music singer Big Tom dies aged 81

FANS' FINAL FAREWELL Country music legend Big Tom McBride to lie in public repose for fans to pay tribute as family confirm funeral plans The Sun.ie

Big Tom McBride, Irish country music star, dies at 81 - BBC News

Hugo Duncan and Daniel O’Donnell pay tribute to Big Tom first broadcast on BBC Radio Ulster 17 April 2018

TRIBUTES

Lisa McHugh: Shocked and truly saddened to hear of the passing of Big Tom this morning. Ireland’s King of Country Music for so many years and his legacy will live on for many years to come. My sincere condolences go out to all of his family and friends at this terrible time. RIP

Mike Denver: So sad this morning hearing of the passing of my friend Big Tom. The gentle giant. Country music has lost a legend. RIP with your love Rose

Derek Ryan: This photo has always been special to me, but even more so this morning as I woke to the sad news of Big Tom's passing. His songs and unique sound will live forever in Irish Country Music. Rest In Peace. #KingOfCountry #Legend #BigTom  Twitter Photo

Pictured with Clionna Hagan (L)

Cliona Hagan: Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the King of Irish Country Music Big Tom! Your music or your unmistakable voice will never be forgotten!#BigTom #countryking #neverforgotten

Dominic Kirwan: I’ve just heard the sad news Ireland’s true #KingOfCountry music #BigTom (Tom McBride) has passed away, and so soon after his beautiful wife’s death, Rose. A humble man! I send my sincere condolences and prayers to Tom’s family at this time. Thank you for the music .. R.I.P. Tom

Lisa Stanley: So sad to hear of the death of the legend Big Tom McBride. I met Tom many times and he was such a gentleman both on and off stage. There will never be another like him. My sincere condolences to Tom’s family and friends. Rest In Peace Tom 🌹#legend #bigtom #theking

Rachael Anderson (Downtown Radio) : Very sad to hear this morning of the passing of the Irish Country legend Big Tom McBride. A very sad day for Irish Country music x #BigTom

Lynette Fay (BBC Radio Ulster) I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Big Tom McBride, Ireland’s King of Country- a National Treasure and Irish country music legend. Suaimhneas síoraí ar a anam uasal.

The Irish World: The Irish World are very sad to learn of the passing of the undisputed king of Irish country music, Big Tom. We send our condolences to his family and friends. Irish Times (Article)

The Late Late Show: We were very sad to hear this morning of the passing of Ireland’s King of Country, Big Tom. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans. He was a huge part of our Country Specials and we will be paying special tribute to him on this Friday’s show.

Keep It Country TV: We are saddened today to hear news of the passing of Irish Country Music Legend Big Tom. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends & many fans at this time. Pictured below is Big Tom being interviewed for @KeepItCountryTV Rest in peace Big Tom. #BigTom ☘️

Big Tom (R) talks with Phil Mack (L) in a Keep It Country TV Interview

Hot Country TV: rest in peace big tom, the king of country , you will be sadly missed, thoughts and prayers are with your family,friends and fans Twitter Photo

Jonathan O'Brien: Big Tom joins the majority. Good story: Garech Browne once took Mick Jagger to a Big Tom gig in Castleblayney in the early 1980s. Jagger went backstage afterwards and introduced himself. Big Tom refused to believe it was him and ignored him. Jagger flounced off in a huff.

RIP lovely gentlemen Big Tom, we love you 💖💖💖 pic.twitter.com/wGqZ8umKNN

— Larissa Tormey (@LarissaTormey) 17 April 2018

Big Tom discussing how a GAA manager gave him his nickname and his GAA background in 1980. RIP pic.twitter.com/iB6kUdq889

— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) 17 April 2018

Shane McGowan, as a amhrán 'Rock 'N Roll Paddy'...

'Here's to Geno, here's to Eddie
Here's to sad songs Big O sings
Here's a letter from Elvis Presley
Big Tom is still the King' pic.twitter.com/534A4s5kwd

— Tuairisc.ie (@tuairiscnuacht) 17 April 2018