NASHVILLE, Tenn. – American country music great Hal Ketchum has passed away at age 67. Some of his most legendary hits as an artist include, “Long Haired Country Boy” which got nominated for a CMA award in 1997, “Past the Point of Rescue,” “Small Town Saturday Night” and “Hearts are gonna Roll.” Ketchum’s 1991 album Past the Point of Rescue is his most commercially successful, having been certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America. Between 1991 and 2006 Ketchum had seventeen entries on the Billboard Hot Country Songs. Ketchum was not only a genuine entertainer and talented lyricist but a friend to many in the music and entertainment industry.
Fellow artists mourn the loss of their friend and share fond memories that have left them forever inspired by the timeless, Hal Ketchum.
“The Oak Ridge Boys are saddened over the loss of Hal Ketchum … a great voice and a great guy … 2020 has been hard … so many country music artists and songwriters have gone home this year … Rest easy Hal.” – The Oak Ridge Boys
“There is now another addition to the amazing band in heaven. I really hate to hear this. Hal was such a talented and wonderful guy.” – Johnny Lee
“Such a deep loss for our music community and for the world. Thank you, God, for giving us the gift of wonderful, talented Hal Ketchum. My heart and prayers are with the family, friends, and all who were touched by his music and songs. He will surely be loved, missed, and remembered Forever. Rest In Peace, Hal.” – Deborah Allen
“My heart is breaking for the family of Hal Ketchum. I always enjoyed playing the Grand Ole Opry with Hal. He stepped on that stage with a smile on his face, and the music he sang was pure poetry. He will be missed.” – Tim Atwood
“My thoughts and prayers are with his family. He made a lot of great music throughout his career.” – B.J. Thomas
“Hal was one of the nicest guys I’ve ever known. We always had a special bond. I’m saddened to hear of his passing but gladdened to know his physical pain is over. Sheila and my prayers are with his family today. R.I.P. my brother.” – T. Graham Brown
“Thoughts and prayers out to the family of Hal Ketchum. One of my favorite voices of the Opry. I’m glad to know that he is no longer suffering and in a much better place. Our hearts are still gonna roll, Hal. We love you and will miss you but your songs will always remain.” – JD Shelburne
