Grammy Winner Jerry Kennedy, 85, Dies After Heart Failure in Nashville

Grammy-winning music legend Jerry Kennedy has passed away at 85. He was a producer and guitarist on countless hit songs.
By Newsroom | Music, Obituaries |

Jerry Kennedy, a renowned figure in the music industry known for his work as a Grammy-winning producer and session guitarist, has died at the age of 85. His passing was confirmed by his son, Gordon Kennedy, who shared a heartfelt tribute. Kennedy's career spanned decades, leaving a significant mark on country music and beyond.

Circumstances of Death and Legacy

Gordon Kennedy confirmed that his father passed away after being diagnosed with congestive heart failure. The elder Kennedy's health had reportedly declined over a period of weeks leading up to his death.

Jerry Kennedy dead: Grammy-winning music legend dies as son pays heartbreaking tribute - 1

Jerry Kennedy's career began at a remarkably young age, signing his first recording contract with RCA Records at just 11 years old.

His son, also a notable musician and producer, highlighted the pervasive influence of his father's work, stating that it seemed his father was "on one out of every three or four songs" as a player or producer. This observation underscores Kennedy's prolific output and his integral role in shaping the sound of countless recordings.

Read More: Cruz Beckham cuts off finger end before music video filming

Jerry Kennedy dead: Grammy-winning music legend dies as son pays heartbreaking tribute - 2

Career Highlights and Contributions

Kennedy was a highly sought-after session musician, lending his guitar skills to many iconic artists. His riffs are described as some of the most recognizable in country music history.

  • Session Guitarist: He played on records for artists such as Tammy Wynette, Roy Orbison, and Jeannie C. Riley. His contribution to songs like "Oh Pretty Woman" is specifically noted.

  • Producer: Kennedy transitioned into a successful career as a producer, working with a wide array of talent. He was instrumental in the careers of artists like Tammy Wynette and Reba McEntire, and he produced early sessions for Dolly Parton.

  • Record Executive: He also held significant roles in the business side of music, including rising to Vice President of Mercury Records' Nashville division, where he managed the label's country music operations for over two decades.

  • Production Company: Beyond his label work, Kennedy established his own production company, JK Productions.

The Country Music Hall of Fame recognized Kennedy as a "first-call session musician" and noted his profound understanding of music's ability to transcend boundaries. They have previously highlighted his work in their "Nashville Cats" series.

Jerry Kennedy dead: Grammy-winning music legend dies as son pays heartbreaking tribute - 3

Son's Tribute and Family

Gordon Kennedy, Jerry Kennedy's son, is himself an accomplished musician, songwriter, and producer who has worked with prominent artists such as Garth Brooks, Peter Frampton, and Ricky Skaggs. His tribute emphasized the lasting impact of his father's musical legacy, noting that he heard his father's music constantly playing in the facility where he spent his final days.

"My father sat on both in this world. He told the publication someone had approached him at a funeral home, offering to make him a piece of jewellery with his father’s fingerprint to ensure his legacy would be preserved." - Gordon Kennedy, son of Jerry Kennedy

Gordon Kennedy's statement to The New York Times also conveyed that his father's death occurred after being diagnosed with congestive heart failure.

Read More: When Did Rev. Jesse Jackson Die and How Old Was He?

Jerry Kennedy dead: Grammy-winning music legend dies as son pays heartbreaking tribute - 4

The Country Music Hall of Fame has stated that Kennedy's talent touched Roy Orbison's music in a way that will always be cherished.

Influential Figure in Nashville

Jerry Kennedy's influence extended beyond his individual performances and production work. He is described as a "pivotal figure in Nashville's musical history," helping to shape the very sound of country music. His career is seen as a testament to the enduring impact an individual can have on an entire industry.

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was Jerry Kennedy and why is he important?
Jerry Kennedy was a famous music producer and guitarist who won a Grammy. He was 85 years old when he died. He helped make many country music songs famous.
Q: When and where did Jerry Kennedy die?
Jerry Kennedy died recently in Nashville. He was 85 years old.
Q: What caused Jerry Kennedy's death?
Jerry Kennedy died because he had congestive heart failure. His health had been getting worse for some weeks before he passed away.
Q: What were Jerry Kennedy's biggest achievements in music?
Jerry Kennedy played guitar on famous songs like "Oh Pretty Woman" and produced music for artists like Tammy Wynette and Reba McEntire. He also worked as a boss at Mercury Records.
Q: How did his son remember him?
Jerry Kennedy's son, Gordon Kennedy, said his father's music was heard on many songs. He shared a sad message about his father's passing.