Legendary Guitarist and Producer Jerry Kennedy Passes Away at 85
The music world mourns the loss of Jerry Kennedy, a celebrated guitarist and producer best known for his work with iconic artists Tammy Wynette and Roy Orbison. Kennedy passed away on February 11 in Nashville at the age of 85.
Son Confirms Heartbreaking News
His son, Gordon Kennedy, confirmed the sad news to The New York Times, revealing that his father died after being diagnosed with congestive heart failure. In the days leading up to his passing, the veteran musician was admitted to a comfort care facility, as further shared with The Tennessean.
Gordon Kennedy posted a heartfelt social media tribute alongside a photo of his father, writing an emotional caption to honor his legacy. "The musician sits on one side of the glass. The producer sits on the other. My father sat on both in this world," he wrote. "Scripture tells us we only see through a smoky glass this side of heaven. I imagine my father sitting on this side and last Wednesday, hearing a voice on the other side saying 'come on in and listen.'"
A Life Dedicated to Music
Jerry Kennedy was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, on August 10, 1940. Music became an integral part of his life from an early age when his parents gifted him a guitar at around 8 years old. He actively pursued his passion by:
- Regularly attending concerts of famed guitarists and singers
- Taking lessons and practicing diligently over the years
- Developing his skills that would later define his career
Rise to Fame in Nashville
During the 1960s and 1970s, Kennedy became a prominent figure in Nashville's music scene. He was credited with contributing to much of the city's popular music at the time, and his tunes continue to resonate with fans today.
His son shared that Kennedy's music legacy remains vibrant, often featured on TV shows and other media. "There were days where I remember walking towards his room and I hear music coming out of his room and it was Tom T. Hall's 'Fox on the Run,' from the bluegrass album they did," Gordon recalled. "It was a different song every day. We would hear 'I'll Go To My Grave Loving You' by the Statler Brothers or a Tammy Wynette song he played on. I was just amazed at how frequent it was."
Jerry Kennedy's contributions to music, both as a guitarist and producer, have left an indelible mark on the industry, ensuring his memory lives on through the timeless sounds he helped create.
