Country legend, Loretta Lynn died this week at age 90. She was a towering figure in country music and had a huge influence on the artists who came after her, especially female country singers. American Idol alum, Carrie Underwood, shared a story about meeting the spunky lady for the first time.
“The first time I met Loretta Lynn was at the Grand Ole Opry at the beginning of my career,” Carrie shared. “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…laughing as she continued to walk down the hall at what she had just done…”
Carrie continued: “This is one of my most favorite stories to tell. I think it sums up her personality pretty well. She was a cantankerous little pistol…friendly and sweet…never afraid to be herself and speak her mind. Over the years, I have had the honor of singing for her…and also with her…in some of the most special moments of my career.
She is irreplaceable. She will be incredibly missed…but her legacy lives on in those of us whom she has influenced.
I am truly grateful to have known such an amazing woman and artist.”
Carrie Underwood sings “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” at the 2020 Academy of Country Music Awards
Carrie ended her message. “Thank you, Loretta, for showing us how it’s done. May you Rest In Peace in the arms of Jesus and add your heavenly voice to the angel choir. Love you!”
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Over the course of her 60-year career, the famous native of Butcher Hollow, Ky. amassed a staggering 51 Top 10 hits, garnered every accolade available in music from GRAMMY awards to induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, and broke down barriers for women everywhere with songs like “Don’t Come Home a Drinkin’ (With Lovin’ on Your Mind),” “Fist City” and “Coal Miner’s Daughter.”
“Our precious mom, Loretta Lynn, passed away peacefully this morning, October 4th, in her sleep at home at her beloved ranch in Hurricane Mills,” said her family in a statement.
