Singer-songwriter Jeannie Seely passes away at 85 years old.
==============================================================
Jeannie Seely, affectionately known as "Miss Country Soul," was a highly influential American country music singer, songwriter, and performer. Born on July 6, 1940, in Titusville, Pennsylvania, Seely's career spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.
Seely's big breakthrough came in 1966 with the release of "Don't Touch Me," a Grammy Award-winning song that reached the US country top five. This soulful ballad, written by Hank Cochran, became a signature hit for Seely and earned her an immediate Grammy nomination.
Throughout her career, Seely released 17 studio albums and multiple charting singles, particularly in the late 1960s. Some of her most notable hits include "A Wanderin' Man" (1967) and "I'll Love You More (Than You'll Need)" (1968). Seely also penned hits for other artists, such as "Leavin' and Sayin' Goodbye" for Faron Young.
Seely's career highlights include being a member and regular performer on the Grand Ole Opry, where she was celebrated for her longevity and number of appearances. She holds the record for the most appearances on the Grand Ole Opry, with over 5,397 performances throughout her 55+ year tenure, more than any other performer.
In 2018, Seely launched her own SiriusXM show, "Sundays With Seely." Her latest album, "An American Classic," was released in 2020 and features duet partners like Willie Nelson, Ray Stevens, and Lorrie Morgan.
Seely's impact on country music and the Opry community was recognised by the Country Music Association, who honoured her with the Joe Talbot Award in 2023 and the Jo Walker-Meador Award in 2024.
Seely's last performance at the Grand Ole Opry was in February of this year. She was survived by her husband, Gene Ward, who passed away from cancer in December. Dolly Parton paid tribute to Seely on Instagram, calling her one of the greatest singers in Nashville.
Seely wrote over two dozen of her own chart hits, including "Can I Sleep in Your Arms," later recorded by Willie Nelson. She initially performed on local radio and television stations before moving to California for a brief banking career before moving to Nashville. A record deal with Challenge Records paved her way into the Music City.
Seely's legacy in country music will continue to inspire generations of singers and songwriters. Her soulful vocal style, record-breaking Grand Ole Opry performances, and multiple charting singles during the 1960s, along with prestigious CMA honors near the end of her life, solidify her place as a country music icon.
Celebrities in the music industry, such as Jeannie Seely, have left an indelible mark on the entertainment scene, particularly in country music. Known for her signature soulful ballad "Don't Touch Me" and numerous charting singles throughout the 1960s, Seely's career spanned over five decades, breaking records at the Grand Ole Opry and receiving prestigious honors from the Country Music Association.
