The country music industry has yet again lost a legend. Charley Pride died at the age of 86, leaving everyone in mourning.
Among Charley Pride’s friends, none could be in greater sorrow than country star Dolly Parton. For the whole course of this year, Parton had to say goodbye to some of her closest friends. She had to say goodbye to Kenny Rogers after his passing last March leading her to record an emotional video tribute for Rogers. Parton also paid a sweet tribute to her friend Mac Davis after he passed away following heart surgery in September.
This time, Parton had to say goodbye to another dear friend. Posting in her socials, she could not just contain herself from expressing grief while at the same time, extending her condolences to the bereaved family of Charley Pride.
I’m so heartbroken that one of my dearest and oldest friends, Charley Pride, has passed away. It’s even worse to know that he passed away from COVID-19. What a horrible, horrible virus. Charley, we will always love you. (1/2)
— Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) December 12, 2020
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
Pride has left a legacy in the industry. He was also known to be the first Black American Country star who paved the way for a lot of artists today.
Country star Darius Rucker also paid respect to Pride. Rucker expressed in his socials how heavy his heart is haring that we’ve lost another iconic figure. He reminisced the legacy Pride did as he broke barriers that no one has ever done.
For You
Pride landed 52 top 10 country hits throughout his career. Some of his top-charting songs included timeless songs “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone,” “Kiss the Angel Good Mornin’,” “I’d Rather Love You,” “I’ll Be Leaving Alone,” and many more.
Pride was last seen publicly at this year’s CMA Awards in Nashville. He was there to receive the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. On the same night, he also gave the public his final live performance where he performed one of his timeless hits “Kiss an Angel Good Morning’,” with Jimmie Allen.”
2020 has been a tough year for everyone. We have lost other country stars this year due to the virus and others due to natural or re-occurring illnesses. Pride, alongside Doug Supernaw, Kenny Rogers, Mac Davis, Troy Jones, Justin Townes Earle, Charlie Daniels, and John Prine are just among the many who have left us this year.
Even long after they were gone, the works that they left over the years will last and will always be loved. For Charlie Pride, thank you for decades-long of music and entertainment and for the legacy which will live on long after you are gone.
