Ray Price a protege and friend of Hank Williams died December 16 at the age of 87.
Here’s a very good article reviewing Price’s career and his many accomplishments and virtually unparalleled contributions to country music. Of course Ray also became one of the very top echelon of pop vocalists and stylists in American music.
UPDATE: Dec 16, 2013, 945 AM
There’s been confusion about the death of Ray Price. He is still alive but in end of life care at home. This is a correction from ‘The Tennessean’.
All the best to all involved at this very difficult time.
UPDATE: Dec 15, 2013 445 PM Eastern
I hate to now have to report that the ‘Tennessean’ newspaper in Nashville now reports that Ray Price has died.
http://blogs.tennessean.com/tunein/2013/12/15/ray-price-country-music-hall-of-famer-dies-at-age-87/
Earlier report:
Sadly, country superstar and legend, Ray Price’s condition has apparently taken a turn for the worse.
Price, a protege and friend of Hank Williams, has been waging an heroic fight against cancer.
He came close to death this fall in a Houston hospital, but then rallied in time for Thanksgiving.
Now we hear he has gone from hospital to hospice care at home.
Here’s the official statement from wife Janie.
“Ray is alert and aware of his surroundings and making decisions. With God’s blessing, he has not had extreme pain. But it’s with great sadness that I announce to you today that my beloved husband has entered the final stages of his cancer that he has battled for 25 months. Anyone who knows Ray is aware that he has strong convictions and great faith in God. It’s his decision to leave the hospital and return home to spend his final days on his beloved ranch surrounded by the comfort of his home, family and friends.”
I think this is a really great vocal performance by Ray Price on a Hank song:
Finally, Here is a list of all articles in the blog mentioning Ray Price.