Mickey Gilley, known for his pioneer work in launching the Urban Cowboy movement and hit songs “Stand By Me,” “Room Full of Roses,” and “Lonely Nights,” passed away last May 7, Saturday. There has been no official announcement on the cause of death, but the late singer canceled all of his scheduled May performances at his theater in Branson, Missouri, due to deteriorating health though he hoped to see fans in the future when he’s healthy, reenergized, and back in full swing. He was 86.
Fans poured their support towards the family and fellow country singers also expressed their messages for Mickey Gilley – a celebration of his life and his contributions to the music industry.
And one of the many who shared a message on social media was American country music and gospel music singer Randy Travis. He wrote that while many, including him, were all surprised that his time was up, he bet that Mickey wasn’t. In fact, he knew Mickey was ready. And that he died knowing he lived his life the way he wanted.
Before Mickey’s death, he just had come off the road after playing 10 shows.
Travis also added Mickey’s fingerprint on the world of music was not just imprinted in music venues or the big screen. The late singer left a piece of himself in each and everyone’s hearts. And that as his room in Heaven fills with the sweet smell of roses, the sadness that is once felt by the grieving heart will be overshadowed by the life and legacy he left behind.
Closing his message for Mickey, Randy says, “We hope that piano up there is well tuned and ready to go!”
And Randy Travis also let us in on a little ‘secret.’ That is: Did you know that Travis performed George Strait’s tune “The Chair” live at Gilley’s famous Honky Tonk club in 1986? Yes, that’s true! You can listen to it in the video below.
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Mickey Gilley, Randy Travis