Grand Ole Opry legend, Little Jimmy Dickens, died today at age 94.
From the Associated Press:
Little Jimmy Dickens, a diminutive singer-songwriter who was the oldest cast member of the Grand Ole Opry, has died. He was 94.
Dickens died Friday at a Nashville-area hospital of cardiac arrest after suffering a stroke on Christmas Day, Opry spokeswoman Jessie Schmidt said.
Dickens, who stood 4-foot-11, had performed on the Opry almost continuously since 1948. His last performance was Dec. 20 as part of his birthday celebration. He turned 94 a day earlier.
Country legend Hank Williams Sr. nicknamed him “Tater” based on Dickens’ song “Take an Old ColdTater (And Wait).”
His novelty songs, including his biggest hit “May the Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose” about good and bad luck, earned him a spot in the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1983.
He is credited with introducing rhinestone suits to country music around 1950, taking a suggestion from Los Angeles clothing designer Nudie.
“He said that when the lights hit them, the audience would go `Wow,’ ” Dickens recalled in the 2009 interview. “He was 100 percent right.”
I know why it’s raining in Nashville. Little Jimmy is in heaven now making the Angels laugh so hard, they’re crying. We’ll miss you, friend!
— Carrie Underwood (@carrieunderwood) January 3, 2015
RIP Little Jimmy Dickens #opry
— Taylor Hicks (@taylorhicks) January 3, 2015
Rest In Peace Little Jimmy Dickens. My condolences to your loved ones.
— Diana DeGarmo Young (@DianaDeGarmo) January 3, 2015
It was such an honor meeting this man. Remembering him and his happy spirit. RIP #LittleJimmyDickens ?? pic.twitter.com/9ZkMk0IUwB
— Janell Wheeler (@JanellWheeler) January 3, 2015
Little Jimmy Dickens – May The Bird Of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose
