John Anderson

We are saddened to report that Country Music Hall of Famer John Anderson has passed away at the age of 71 according to his Facebook page:

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and best friend.

To the world, he was a gifted country music singer whose voice and songs touched countless lives. To us, he was so much more. He was the heart of our family, the one who made us laugh, loved us fiercely, and made every ordinary moment feel special.

We are completely heartbroken.

His music will live on, but for us, his greatest legacy will always be the love he gave his family and the memories we will carry with us forever.

Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this unimaginable loss.

As we always do, here is a collection of remembrances being posted by his peers.  Check back often as we update it throughout the night.

• Bellamy Brothers – Our hearts are heavy over the loss of our friend John Anderson. There was only one John—an unmistakable voice, a true country music original, and someone we were proud to call a friend.  We’ll always treasure our time on the Friends and Heroes Tour with John, Blake Shelton and Trace Adkins. Recording “No Country Music for Old Men” with John meant so much to us, and those words hit a little harder today.  John also sang at David’s Songwriters Hall of Fame induction, giving our family another memory we’ll hold close forever.  We’re grateful for the music, the friendship and the years we shared. Sending our love and prayers to his family and everyone who loved him.  Rest easy, John. We’ll miss you, brother.
• Charlie Daniels Jr. – The Daniels family is saddened to hear of the sudden passing of John Anderson. Mom, Chelsea and I all attended Sunday’s Medallion Ceremony at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and saw him from a distance, so this comes as a complete shock Our prayers go out to his family, his friends and his many many fans. Rest in Peace, John.
• Gene Watson – We are deeply saddened to hear that John Anderson has passed away. He was as kind hearted as he was talented. A great man and a huge loss to Country Music.
• John Rich – I’ve just learned that my favorite country artist of all time, and a man I called “Uncle John” for the past 20 years has passed away. The great and unmatched John Anderson…He loved Jesus, and his family and his country. He was a massive influence on me in more ways that I can count. I love you, Uncle John.
• Nancy Jones – I am in shock. Just Sunday, John and I were at the Country Music Hall of Fame, laughing and sharing funny George stories and reminiscing about all the wonderful memories we’ve had together. We even took photos together, and now he’s gone. My heart is broken. I’m hurting so much for Jamie. I love them both dearly, and I will forever cherish those memories.