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Country Music Artists React To Loretta Lynn's Death

Carly Pearce, LeAnn Rimes, Lynda Carter, Tenille Arts, and more honor the “Queen of Country Music.”

The country music community is grieving the loss of icon Loretta Lynn, a coal miner’s daughter who became an influential trailblazer in the genre with her progressive songs and for fearlessly advocating for women. 

The timeless singer-songwriter passed peacefully in her sleep Tuesday (Oct. 4) morning at the age of 90. According to a statement issued by the Country Music Hall of Famer’s family, she died at her home in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee. 

“Our precious mom, Loretta Lynn, passed away peacefully this morning, October 4th, in her sleep at home at her beloved ranch in Hurricane Mills,” shared Lynn’s children. 

Lynn was known for pushing the boundaries of mainstream music by sparking difficult dialogues or singing about topics that were often viewed as “taboo” at the time. For instance – cheating, love, divorce, and the use of birth control. Songs like “Don’t Come Home a Drinkin’ (With Lovin’ on Your Mind),” “Fist City,” and “Coal Miner’s Daughter”  left a significant impact on the country landscape and broke down barriers for females nationwide. 

Her influence did not go unnoticed, as Lynn joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1962 and scored four GRAMMY Awards, seven American Music Awards, and eight Country Music Association Awards. The resilient songstress even became the first woman to win Entertainer of the Year at the CMA Awards and ACM Awards. The “I’m A Honky Tonk Girl” artist was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2008 and was presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013. 

In 2021, the icon released “Still Woman Enough” to honor the females in country music today. The tribute collection served as her 50th studio album and features songwriting credits from her daughter Patsy Lynn Russell. The emotional-driven collection includes collaborations with fellow country pioneers –  Reba McEntire, Tanya Tucker, Margo Price, and Carrie Underwood. 

To celebrate her flourishing 60-year-long career and beautiful life, the family is requesting donations to be made to the Loretta Lynn Foundation. Information regarding her memorial service has yet to be announced. 

Lynn was a vital part of the country community, and now artists and devoted fans are honoring the late legend.

Grand Ole Opry: “60 years of Opry membership, countless memories, songs and stories. Our Opry family turns to music when words fail. Thank you for all you’ve given to the Opry, @LorettaLynn. We love you.”

Dolly Parton: "So sorry to hear about my sister, friend Loretta. We've been like sisters all the years we've been in Nashville and she was a wonderful human being, wonderful talent, had millions of fans and I'm one of them. I miss her dearly as we all will. May she rest in peace." 

Carrie Underwood: "The first time I met Loretta Lynn was at the Grand Ole Opry at beginning of my career. I was chatting in the corner with another artist and someone walked behind me and smacked me on the rear end! I turned around and there she was…in a big sparkly dress."

Mickey Guyton: "Rest in power sweet angel."

Carly Pearce: “She showed us all how to unapologetically tell the truth. One of the greatest there ever will be. I’ll be singing “Dear Miss Loretta” with a little extra love tonight at the @opry. Now she really is a Honky Angel #RIP.”

Miranda Lambert: "I’m so heartbroken to hear about Loretta’s passing. She was so kind to me and she blazed so many trails for all of us girls in country music. Thanks you for all the songs . Miss you. Fly high."

Cody Alan: “Legend” or “Icon” seem like words too small to describe her! She was both and so much more. Her voice and unapologetic truth in song and life made her a hero to so many. RIP Loretta Lyn – photos are from our last CMT interview in April 2019.”

LeAnn Rimes: “Loretta Lynn paved the way for so many of us women in country music. What a legacy she leaves behind.”

Blake Shelton: “Terrible news about Loretta Lynn passing away…Prayers to her family.”

Chely Wright: Dear Loretta,  I awoke this morning at 4:00am, thinking about you. I grabbed my phone and pulled up photos of us together over the years. I felt a warmth come over me and a sense of peace.  Thank you for your songs, for your mentorship, for your friendship and for your love. 

Carole King: “She was an inspiration. R.I.P Loretta Lynn.”

Matraca Berg: "Goodbye beautiful Loretta"

Lynda Carter: “I am glad she was able to share her wisdom and talent with the world for as long as she did. We will miss her. R.I.P Loretta Lynn.”

Andrew Kirell: “Loretta Lynn wasn’t just the “Queen of Country Music,” she was among the greatest if *all* songwriters. She was the greatest at simply being herself. And no one will ever do it better.”

Tenille Arts: “None of us women in country music could be where we are without her and the paths Loretta Lynn paved. Sending all of my love to her family, friends, and the whole country music family.”

Darius Rucker: "She was an iconic legend and did things the way she wanted. I am so bless to call her friend. I miss u already Loretta. Love u. And rest now u angel."

The Oak Ridge Boys: “Very sad news this morning…Loretta Lynn has gone home…Great Britain lost their Queen…now we have lost ours…Rest easy ma’ma. You were loved all…”

Roy Orbison: “Thee great Loretta Lynn has passed away today. Our thoughts are with her and her family. The country music legend was born on April 14, 1932. She was 90 years old. Here is a picture of Roy Orbison and Loretta Lynn.”

Parker McCollum: "Listening to nothing but Loretta Lynn for the rest of the week. RIP to an absolute icon in country music. Damn." 

Randy Houser: "Man, I'd sure love to visit Heaven tonight and watch this reunion. Rest well @Lorettalynnofficial. You did so much for Women and Country music. You will live forever in our hearts. #ConwayTwitty."

Kacey Musgraves: "Loretta 💔"

 Stella Parton: "My heart is broken with the news of my sweet friend Loretta Lynn passing. I will remember all the sweet visits and laughs we shared. RIP sweet Angel." 

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