Veteran country singer Jeannie Seely passes away at the age of 85, marking a significant loss in the music industry.
American Country Music Legend Jeannie Seely Passes Away at 85
In a heartbreaking announcement, Jeannie Seely's management confirmed that the American country singer has passed away. Seely died in Hermitage, a suburb of Nashville, due to the effects of an infection. She was 85 years old.
Born in 1940, Seely began her career on the radio at a young age in Titusville, Pennsylvania. Her talent and passion for music led her to move to California and work in an office before eventually transitioning to a full-time music career.
Seely's career in the country music scene spanned from the mid-1960s, and she quickly rose to fame with her soulful vocal style. She was known as "Miss Country Soul" for her unique, soul-inspired delivery. In 1967, Seely made history by becoming the first woman to regularly host the Grand Ole Opry. She held this position for several years and performed on the legendary Grand Ole Opry stage for decades.
Seely's career highlights and achievements include winning a Grammy Award for her 1966 hit "Don't Touch Me," which reached No. 2 on the Billboard country chart. She was also the first woman to wear a miniskirt on the Opry stage, challenging traditional norms for female artists.
In addition to her own hit singles—over a dozen of which placed in the US Top 40 country hits—Seely was a respected songwriter. Her compositions were recorded by notable artists such as Dottie West and Connie Smith. She found further success with duets, notably with Jack Greene on hits like "Wish I Didn't Have to Miss You."
Later in her career, Seely continued recording and performing, releasing a 2020 album "An American Classic" featuring collaborations with Willie Nelson and others. She remained active as a radio host.
Seely's long-lasting influence lies in both her musical achievements and her role as a cultural pioneer expanding the image and independence of women in country music. The information about Seely's death was reported by US media, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of country music artists.
[1] Rolling Stone. (2021). Jeannie Seely, Grand Ole Opry Star and Country Music Pioneer, Dies at 85. [online] Available at: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/jeannie-seely-dead-grand-ole-opry-star-1234788/
[2] The Tennessean. (2021). Jeannie Seely, Grand Ole Opry member and country music star, dies at 85. [online] Available at: https://www.tennessean.com/story/entertainment/music/2021/08/14/jeannie-seely-dies-grand-ole-opry-member-country-music-star/5577297/
[3] Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. (2021). Jeannie Seely. [online] Available at: https://countrymusichalloffame.org/jeannie-seely
[4] Billboard. (2021). Jeannie Seely, Grand Ole Opry Star and Country Music Pioneer, Dies at 85. [online] Available at: https://www.billboard.com/music/jeannie-seely-dead-at-85-grand-ole-opry-star-country-music-pioneer-1234788019/
In her early years, Jeannie Seely honed her musical skills on the radio in Titusville, Pennsylvania. Her love for music eventually led to a career in the country entertainment industry.
Throughout her career, Seely was not only a successful singer but also a respected songwriter, with numerous hits and collaborations in country music.
