Remembering Charlie Pride...

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Remembering Charlie Pride
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The country music communnity is mourning the loss of the legendary Charley Pride. The influential music icon passed away yesterday, December 12, due to complications of COVID-19. He was 86.

тАЬCharley has been a longtime friend and over the years I have always enjoyed laughing and exchanging jokes with him. We will miss you.тАЭ
-Jeff Cook / ALABAMA (Country Music Hall of Fame member)

"CharleyтАЩs smile always lit up the room. His historic Hall of Fame career lit up an industry. Tonight IтАЩm sure heтАЩs still lightening them upЕ just a little higher up..тАЭ
-Teddy Gentry / ALABAMA (Country Music Hall of Fame member)

"He and Rozene are true friends of mine and KellyтАЩs. Our thoughts and prayers are with Rozene and his family. Heaven awaits my friend, Charley."
-Randy Owen / ALABAMA (Country Music Hall of Fame member)

тАЬI loved Charley Pride and will miss his happy spirit. His voice was so unique, his records were so well done, he was a great entertainer, and he opened up a whole new market for Country Music. No wonder he is in the Hall of Fame.тАЭ
-Ricky Skaggs (Country Music Hall of Fame member)

"Charley Pride was a longtime friend and great entertainer. IтАЩll miss him always calling me Ray Ragsdale and reminding me that IтАЩm an Aquarius. RIP Charley, my friend.тАЭ
-Ray Stevens (Country Music Hall of Fame member)

"Charley Pride, a pioneer, a music man, a baseball player, a good friend and the love of RozeneтАЩs life, has passed on. Without his encouragement when I was playing the Whiskey a Go-Go on the Sunset Strip in the тАШ70s, I might have never made it to Nashville Ц and to hear this news tears out a piece of my heart. That he died of COVID makes me even sadder. These are such sad days with too much lose. Please, to everyone whoтАЩs ever loved 'Kiss An Angel Good Morning,' 'Mountain of Love' or 'Is Anybody GoinтАЩ To San Antone,' wear a mask, wash your hands and be wise about gathering. WeтАЩve lost too many, and I just want us all to be here to love each other and the music the way Charlie always did for years to come."
-Ronnie Milsap (Country Music Hall of Fame member)

"Our old and great friend Charley Pride was to country music what Jackie Robinson was to baseball. A great talent, a great American and a great man. We send our love and condolences to Rozene and the family.тАЭ -Larry, Steve & Rudy: The Gatlin Brothers

тАЬI knew Charley and worked shows with him from the very earliest days of his career and found him to be a credit to our business. We will miss him. Our best thoughts to Rozene and family.тАЭ -Leroy Van Dyke

тАЬIтАЩm deeply saddened by the news today of Charley Pride's passing. What a sad year for our industry. We have already lost so many friends and legends and now Charley. What a kind, sweet, considerate man. He always, and I mean always, went out of his way to be friendly, supportive, complimentary, genuine and very human to all of us тАШyounger' artists. He was an absolute joy to be around. As an artist? Wow. Blazed a huge trail with that resonant, warm, unmistakable voice and a countless stream of huge country hits that spanned decades. A true legend in every sense of the word. A true man in every sense of the word. I always enjoyed talking baseball with him. Honored beyond words to have shared the stage with him on occasion. My love and sympathy go out to his dear family. My heart also goes out to my good friend Neal McCoy on this day for I know how much Neal loved Charley. God be with you, Charley. Safe now in eternity. May we never forget the great Charley Pride."
-Collin Raye

"Charley Pride broke down barriers for artists and fans of country music. He was an American icon and will be greatly missed around the world."
-John Anderson

"'Is Anybody Goin to San AntoneтАЩ was the first song I ever sang when I started at 12 years old, 50 years ago, playing night clubs in southwest Louisiana. Gonna miss a wonderful and sweet man. It was a joy and honor to work with him last year. God bless you Charley and Rest in Peace.тАЭ -Sammy Kershaw

тАЬCharley Pride was one of my very dear friends. On several occasions he shared with me the challenges that he faced as one of the few black men in our business that had huge success. And that made him very special in my book. Several years ago, Charley recorded a song of mine that I co-wrote with some friends. It became the title cut of his new album, Comfort of Her Wings. That for me was a dream come true. ItтАЩs hard to let go of someone so precious and such a dear friend. I already miss him. But I know that the Lord has a special place in the choir for him because there has never been a voice like Charley PrideтАЩs. IтАЩll see you on the other side, my friend." -Darryl Worley

тАЬCharley Pride broke barriers that were extremely hard in his early yearsЕ not only to win over friends andd confidants but also to bring us many years of musical perfection. Rest in Peace, Charley.тАЭ -Doug Gray / The Marshall Tucker Band

"My heart is heavy tonight to lose a great man and a great country stylist. Mr. Pride was always kind to me and he was full of life. A true country legend and gentleman. God rest his soul and bless his family in this time." -Lorrie Morgan

"Charley Pride was not only a country music artist, he was a legend, a patriarch to what is Country Music. I loved Charley Pride. My condolences to Mrs. Rozene and the Pride family.тАЭ
-Marty Rayon / Shenandoah

"Ever since I was a kid IтАЩve loved Charley Pride. And still to this day, anytime I see a road sign to San Antonio I canтАЩt help but sing, тАШIs anybody goin to San Antone, or Phoenix Arizona.тАЩ What a legacy of great songs he left us. Prayers to Rozene and his family. RIP Charley. You were a good one, buddy.тАЭ -Mike McGuire / Shenandoah

"My heart is broken over the passing of Charley Pride. Out of all of the songs I got cut as a songwriter I am most proud of the fact that Charley cut two of my songs. We have lost a gentle, sweet man and a music legend. Rest in Peace.тАЭ -Aaron Tippin

"Our music family lost another legend and one of the kindest souls ever. Our friend Charley Pride will be missed and prayers go out to the entire family. RIP brother Charley.тАЭ
-Larry Stewart / Restless Heart

Another profound loss not only for country music, but the entire creative world. Charley Pride was a trailblazer, tearing down stereotypes about who or what was country. Back in our early days of touring in the mid 80s, we heard Charley Pride on every truck stop jukebox in America. IтАЩm so grateful he was recognized by the CMA shortly before his passing. Sending prayers of comfort to all who loved him and were inspired to break down barriers. Rest in peace Charley, your amazing voice is forever etched in our hearts.тАЭ
-Dave Innis / Restless Heart

тАЬCharley Pride was what you call one-of-a-kind in so many ways. That voice! It drew you into any song he sang and made you believe it was you singing it and living it. Most importantly, he was one of the most dignified gentlemen ever to be a part of the music scene, worldwide. And it rubbed off on so many. Our thoughts are with his family and close friends.тАЭ
-Richard Young / The Kentucky Headhunters

"Charley Pride broke down cultural barriers to become the first black man to be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His voice, at times reminiscent of Hank Williams Sr., was a welcome addition to country radio and he brought a dignified performance personality to the music of rural America. The heart of this great man has forever changed the landscape of country music.тАЭ -Henry Paul / BlackHawk

"Charley PrideтАШs voice and interpretation of country music transcended racial boundaries and southern prejudices. He opened the door for up-and-coming artists from different backgrounds to make it in country music, like my dear friend Neil McCoy, who I'm sure like me tonight is heartbroken.тАЭ -Billy Dean

тАЬCharley was one of my best friends. He was my neighbor when we both lived in Branson. One of the nicest guys IтАЩve ever met. I will miss him very much.тАЭ -Moe Bandy


"My friendship with Charley goes back to his very first tour with Willie Nelson that I was privileged to be a part of also. As big as his voice was, his personality was even bigger... and his heart was even bigger than that. He loved jokes, loved stories, loved to laugh.... and loved us. I will miss all of this. He’s leaving us some wonderful memories. My heart goes out to Rozene', his family, his Opry family and his many friends and fans." �Jeannie Seely

"Saddened to hear of the passing of the great Charley Pride. I found him to be a man full of joy with a peaceful heart. My wife Robin was a huge fan and she often comes to me in the morning singing “Kiss An Angel Good Morning,” I oblige, and respond with “and love her like the devil when you get back home.” Charley will be missed, but his music will live on." �John Berry

"We've been lucky enough to work with Charlie through the years, going back to the late 1970's. He was a great singer, a trailblazer, and a genuine legend. More importantly, he was a really nice guy - a true gentleman!" �Marlon Hargis, Exile

“When Exile first became involved in Country Music, it wasn’t easy for a pop group like us trying to be accepted. Charley lent us his support and encouragement at a time when we needed it the most. We will be forever grateful. Rest well, brother.” �JJP Pennington, Exile

“I remember singing “Mountain of love” at the battle of the bands at the Texas State Fair at age 16. Mr. Charlie Pride was and will always be a trailblazer to all people and to all country music lovers. He was always first class to me, always! Rest In Peace Mr. Pride.” �Tim Rushlow

"So heartbreaking to hear about the passing of country music legend and Grand Ole Opry member, Charley Pride. Loved his music, his bravery, and what he stood for to pave a path for other artists. Prayers for his family, friends, and fans. He will be truly missed. His music will forever live on and he will always be such an inspiration." �Taylon Hope

"A great entertainer! Much loved at the Grand Ole Opry. Charley made some great records and his legacy will live long!" �David Ball
He took pride in his music and giving advice to younger artists. What an honor it was to be around him on several different occasions. The world is a better place because of the person he was and the songs he sang. Thank you Charley Pride for sharing your smile and your beautiful gift. Rest In Peace." �Darin & Brooke Aldridge >

"Charley had a voice identifiable in one note. He was like a machine in the studio...a one take master even if he sang a song more than once. He never wanted to be remembered because he was 'the black guy' who sang country music. No. He wanted to be known first as a great country singing entertainer...then as a devoted husband and father...and that he chose great songs. Though Charley broke the racial sound barrier in every way...he didn't want to ever be signed as 'the black guy'. He told me once that RCA signed him for his voice...they didn't care if he was pink. They signed him for how he sounded. That's what Charley wants remembered. And oh...that voice. Charley...we will never forget you!" �Devon O'Day< host of Main Street Nashville and Devon O'Day's Nashville

"I am so sad to hear about the passing of Charley Pride. He was truly one of the greats. He will be missed." �Dallas Remington

"Hard to hear we've lost another country music legend. Thank you Charley for the amazing music and influence. You will be missed greatly!" �Noah Garner

“I am so deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Charley Pride. He was a legend who paved the way for so many. My Grandpa was always a huge fan so we have a collection of Mr. Pride’s vinyl records that we cherish. It makes my heart so happy that he received the CMA Lifetime Achievement Award this year and was able to perform at the awards. He will live on forever through his music.” �Dani-elle KKleha

“I’m saddened by the news of Charlie Pride’s passing, another legend taken away. In many ways his contribution to Country Music was equally important to that of Jackie Robinson (Baseball) and Jim Brown (Football)!! Country Music is better today because of him and is God Given Talent. R.I.P.” �Mickey Lamantia

“Charlie was an artist that I truly admired. I had the opportunity to share a green room with Charlie during an event at the CMHOF a couple of years ago. He told me stories about his early days in country music and how important the history inside of that building was. He asked about my career and encouraged me to keep pushing towards my goals and dreams. A true gentleman who will be missed by the entire country music community.” �Jacy Dawn Valeres, Platinum Circle Media

"My friend Charley Pride passed away today. He was a man I very much admired because he took the road less traveled by becoming not just a country singer but a driving force in county music. More than 50 of his songs have been in the top 10 AND his music has hit #1 30 times. I wanted Charley to be recognized by the Kennedy Center because as a black man his life was large and I thought after being a baseball player, a business owner, and the only black man most of us knew who sang country music, he should have gotten The Kennedy Center Honors. I will simply say he was a wonderful man & a great artist. My condolences to his family and the fact this is also another COVID-related death breaks my heart because it didn’t have to be this way. Rest In Peace Charley Pride, RIP. Many thanks to the CMAs for recognizing Charley Pride's achievements this year." - Whoopi Goldberg

‘When I heard that Charley Pride had passed I just went numb. It hurts beyond words when someone you love passes. When Charley opened his theatre, he asked the Oak Ridge Boys to help him. I got to know Charley as a friend. We recorded with him on one of his last recordings. On the Country Music Cruise, I sat with Rozene and sang along with every big hit as Charley sang. I ask for prayers for Rozene and the family. We have lost another legend, folks. There is a big hole left in our industry. I have been singing “Kiss An Angel Good Morning” all day.” - Duane Allen, The Oak Ridge Boys

"There is a Neal McCoy because there was a Charley Pride. No other way to put it. Charley and Rozene have meant the world to Melinda and me and our kids. We are forever indebted to them for their hospitality, their generosity, and their caring and loving ways. Charley is gone now but never forgotten by our family and many other families around this world for the love he has extended through his music and the overall kindness he showed while on this earth. We will see him again, and we will continue to love Rozene and their entire family for years to come." - Neal McCoy

“We have lost a dear long-time friend, hero, PIONEER, and LEGEND. This year keeps getting worse and worse. This will be another loss that will take a long time to process. Rest Easy Charley Pride...we all love you and will miss you terribly.” - Joe Bonsall, The Oak Ridge Boys

“Charley has made it possible for artists like me, Mickey, Darius, Jimmie, Kane... to be in country music. He showed us that a career in country music is possible, that we can be true to ourselves and create the music we love. He has paved a path that we’re able to walk down. He is a true legend and will never be forgotten.” - Reyna Roberts

“d**n Covid. How dare it take Charley Pride away from us. If there was ever any justice in the world, it will come when everyone cares to wear a mask and get the vaccine, so we don’t lose anyone else to Covid. Charley Pride was always such a nice man. What a loss for all of the music industry and the world. Never in my lifetime have I met anyone more wonderful. My heartfelt prayers for his family.” - Sam Moore

“Charley Pride was the Jackie Robinson of country music and his name was perfect. He was proud, brave and a hell of a singer. I worked with him once and he sang the heck out of the old Hank Williams song Kaw-liga. His voice was large and pure. He belongs in centerfield where the monuments are. He was a great one.” - Don McLean

“What an incredible talent Mr. Charley Pride was. Very sad to hear of his passing, God bless, Mr. Pride.” - Andrew Farriss

“We have been friends for a long time. Charley and Rozene would come to our home for parties and get-togethers over the years. He was so down to earth and just a normal guy. He will be so missed.” - B.J. Thomas

“Charley Pride has been a cornerstone of country music and a wonderful part of my life for so long. I loved his music before I came to Nashville and I loved Charley as soon as I met him. I always looked forward to working with Charley and I will always miss his warm smile, kind words, and beautiful heart.” - Crystal Gayle

“Charley Pride was a dear friend and truly one of the sweetest men in the music business. I was privileged to be his opening act when I first came to town. He treated everyone with respect and kindness. I’m in shock and so sad because I lost a good friend, the music business lost an incredible artist and the world lost an amazing citizen.” - Lee Greenwood

“Just when I think 2020 couldn’t get any worse, it does. One of my dearest friends and one of country music’s biggest stars Charley Pride may have left for home today, but my 50 years of wonderful memories with him will never be gone. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Rozene, and their family at this very sad time. R.I.P. my friend.” - T.G. Sheppard

“First time I met Charley Pride was in 1983 at the old RCA Records “Studio A”. He walked up to me and told me I was a Scorpio. He could do things like that. We became and remained friends since that day. He and Rozene were dear friends of ours. The music business has lost one of the all-time greats! Prayers and condolences to his family and everyone that loved him. RIP, my brother.” - T. Graham Brown

“I am speechless and broken-hearted and don’t really know what to say. Country music has lost an icon, but I have lost a dear friend. Heaven must be putting together a band. My heart is with the family.” - Johnny Lee

“I’m so saddened to hear about Charley Pride. He gave me my start in country music concerts as I opened shows for him in Washington state, Canada, and many cities. His band backed me up, we flew on his private plane and it was a thrill of a lifetime, a dream come true. May peace and strength be with his family.” - Janie Fricke

“I was ten years old in 1972 standing on stage in Marceline, Missouri at the Frontier Jamboree when Charley Pride came on stage to sing his new number one song, “Kiss An Angel Good Morning”. I got my photo with Charley. I was awestruck watching a Grand Ole Opry star in person. The last time I saw Charley was when we filmed “Country’s Family Reunion”. He was always so friendly. We will miss his amazing voice and the trailblazer he was. Sending my thoughts and prayers to the family of Charley Pride.” - Rhonda Vincent

“I’m heartbroken to hear about Charley’s passing. I’m so grateful to have had such a precious conversation with him recently. I loved how he always knew what zodiac sign everyone was the second he met them. What a terrible void he has left in not only our hearts but in the music world. What a courageous trailblazer he was. My prayers go out to his family. Rest In Peace.” Kelly Lang

“He was named Pride for a reason. Charley brought honor to country music--breaking through barriers that I can only imagine. His rise to fame is historic. I was honored to play for Charley on the Grand Ole Opry, and I even recorded with him once. It was a thrill for me every time. He was a Christian man who was also fascinated by astrology. After talking with you for a few minutes, he would announce that he could tell what sign you were born under. He pegged me for a Taurus after two minutes of conversation, and darn if he wasn't right. I am lifting Rozene and the entire Pride family up in prayer today. Charley Pride made us all proud, and he will be greatly missed.” - Tim Atwood

"Charley was just a real, solid, kind human being. He'll be a great voice in that heavenly choir." - Lacy J. Dalton

“I am so saddened to hear of the passing of my friend, Charley Pride. Charley please “Say Hello To Heaven” for me.” - David Frizzell

"On behalf of my husband, Dave Rowland of award-winning group Dave & Sugar our heartfelt condolences go out to the Pride family. If not for Charley we would not have gotten a deal at RCA or even been discovered. Charley had a knack for discovering amazing talent and always gave his all to help bring those talents to not just the industry but also the fans." - Terri Rowland

“My heart is so heavy to know that our Dear Charley Pride has left us, even though we know it’s for a better place. Charley was the ultimate gentleman and legend in Country Music! He broke all boundaries in every way! He was always so open and friendly. I specifically remember, of all the people at the BMI Awards, Charley Pride was who my Daddy most wanted to meet! When I took him over to Charley, you would have thought they were long lost friends! That’s just the way Charley made everyone feel. He had a “Mountain Of Love” for everybody and was a huge gift to all who knew him.” - Deborah Allen

“I am so sad to hear of the passing of country music legend, Charley Pride. He is one of the best artists of all time and there will never be another one like him. Not only was he a legendary artist, but one of the kindest people I ever met. Any time we were ever at the same place regardless of how busy he would be, Charley always took the time to say hello, visit a bit and share a funny story. He’s truly the last of a dying breed in my book. Rest easy, sweet Charley.” - Shane Owens

“I am sad to hear about the passing of Charley Pride. I met him at the premiere of his documentary, “I Am Me.” I will never forget how kind he was to my wife. This one hurts. Prayers to the family.” - JD Shelburne

“Trailblazer is an understatement when you say a name like Charley Pride. Charley Pride is an American hero! Because of his courage and talent, the door to country music is now open for all! We hope to make him proud and continue to carry the torch! Rest In Peace, Uncle Charley!” - Danica Hart, Chapel Hart

“I didn’t want to believe the news when I heard Mr. Charley had passed away. I remember watching him perform on the CMA Awards show just last month and still being in awe of his smooth voice that has been a staple in country music for so many years. This world will be a little less bright with him gone. My prayers go out to him and his family during these times.” - Paige King Johnson

"Today I celebrate one of my heroes in Country Music. I remember first meeting Charley Pride at Gilley’s in Houston. He touched me then and inspired me over the years. Rest In Peace, my brother. The world was made better because of you.” - Carl Ray

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"Charley Pride is one of my oldest friends - we met before he got his first record deal. He had demoed “The Snakes Crawl at Night” which I heard and cut - then he had his first hit with it. Before that, I was booked up in Montana and he was living up there and I called when I got to town. Rozene said “Pride can’t come because they wouldn’t let him off of work” and gave me his work number. I still remember the sound of the machinery when he answered and said “Bare I wanted to come so bad, but they just wouldn’t let me off.” I said, “don’t worry Pride, it won’t be long before you’re doing this with us.” Wasn’t very long after that he got a record deal in Nashville. And the rest is history. He paved paths and he truly loved country music. I’ll miss my friend." - Bobby Bare, Fellow Country Music Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry member

License a photo of the pair with Ray Walker at the Country Music Hall of Fame at Getty Images.

"How often do you befriend a soul that changes yours? Charley Pride was that for me�a soft-spoken, gentlee man who reminded this country boy, from Marshville, NC, that I could find a home, in Nashville, regardless of the path I had trod. Charley’s strength, courage, humility, and kindness were a beam of light for me as I changed lanes on life’s road. Every encounter with him left me a better person. His inability to see the flaws in others, choosing only to find their perfections, gave you a sense of ‘pride,' you didn’t have only moments prior � God gavee him the perfect name." - read full statement - Randy Travis, Fellow Country Music Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry member

License a photo of Charley Pride and Randy Travis at Getty Images.

"Charley Pride was a close friend, and I was a big fan. Not only was he a dear friend, but we celebrated our March birthdays together, although he was two years older. Country music will never be the same because we lost a legend. Love always to you and your family, thanks for some great music." - Mickey Gilley

"Charley Pride and I played together many times through the years and he was an exceptional talent like no other. He helped to change the world in many ways through his music. My thoughts and prayers are with his family." - Jerry Lee Lewis

License a photo of the pair, with Jerry Reed and Barbara Mandrell from Getty Images.

"I’ve lost many friends this year to COVID and I just can’t believe today’s news. Charley Pride was a pioneer in country music, but more than that, he was a dear friend. He gave me lots of advice over the course of my career & he’ll be sorely missed. Please wear a mask if you can. It’s not that hard. I wear mine everywhere I go. I’m not afraid of dying and I won’t let this control my life, but I believe we should all do our part. This is becoming too much. If you don’t do it for yourself, do it for people like Joe Diffie & Charley Pride. Do it for them if you would, please. Do it for me. We’re a breath away from death." - Doug Stone