Famed Country Music Personality Ralph Emery Dead At 88

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The world of country music is grieving the loss of one of its dearest and awe-inspiring radio and TV personalities, Ralph Emery. He “passed away peacefully” Saturday morning with his family and loved ones around at one hospital in Nashville. He was 88.

Some of the genre’s biggest stars quickly took to social media to remember Emery. This includes Loretta Lynn, who has appreciated the massive role Emery played in the growth and success of country music.

Ralph Emery And His Incalculable Contribution To Expanding Country Music’s Audience

Born on March 10, 1933, in McEwen, Tennessee, Ralph Emery – also known as “The Dean of Country Music Broadcasters” – started his career in the 1950s at small-market radio stations. With such incredible charm, wit, and talent, he eventually became among the most prominent TV and radio personalities in the genre.

He rose to fame as the late-night disk jockey on WSM in Nashville, where he had the chance to interview countless popular music personalities, including Waylon Jennings, Chet Atkins, and so much more. He was credited for giving up-and-coming artists a chance on his shows and for fans to know more about the people behind the songs.

For three years, he’s been announcing on the Grand Ole Opry, too.

From 1974 to 1980, Emery left Nashville WSM and started hosting the TV music series called Pop! Goes the Country. Subsequently, he began hosting Nashville Now in 1983 – which went on for the next decade.  

Finally, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2007. He also became a member of the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2010.

Well, there’s no doubt, Ralph Emery’s legacy will live on forever.