Remembering Charley Pride

2020 and COVID-19 have both claimed another victim, this time taking from us the legendary Hall of Famer Charley Pride at the age of 86.  Pride’s first profession was as a baseball player, both in the Negro League and in the Minor Leagues.  He was drafted into the Army in 1956, and was discharged in 1958.  He went back to baseball, but never made it to the major leagues, which led to him finding an illustrious career as a country music singer.  His long career featured twelve #1 albums, twenty-nine #1 singles and fifty-two Top 10 hits.  While he dominated the 1970’s, his hits spanned from 1966 to 1989, headed by his crossover smash hit, “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’.”

Pride was a member of the Grand Ole Opry, was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2000, and won the CMA Entertainer of the Year Award in 1971.  He was a two-time CMA Male Vocalist of the Year winner (’71 and ’72) and won 4 Grammys.  He was widely recognized as a trailblazer for African-American artists in country music, and was honored at the 2020 CMA Awards with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

As we try to do anytime a legend passes, we have collected quotes from his peers and listed them below.  Here is what they are saying:

• Aaron Tippin – My heart is broken over the passing of Charley Pride. Out of all of the songs I got cut as a songwriter I am most proud of the fact that Charley cut two of my songs. We have lost a gentle, sweet man and a music legend. Rest in Peace.
• Aaron Watson – I was so honored to share the Grand Ole Opry stage with Mr. Charley Pride. After I performed, I walked over to him and introduced myself and he said “you sing good songs.” I couldn’t stop smiling. He was a true American hero who brought us all closer together thru his wonderful music, his love and kindness. Rest In Peace Mr. Charley Pride. We will miss you.
• B.J. Thomas – #CharleyPride and I have been friends for a long time. Charley and Rozene would come to our home for parties and get togethers. He was so down to earth and just a normal guy. He will be so missed.
• Bellamy Brothers – We’re heartbroken to hear the news about our friend Charley Pride. We toured many miles together over the years including Ireland where this photo was taken around the mid 1980s. Charley was one of the good guys. He and his music will live in our hearts forever. Rest In Peace.
• Bill Anderson – Like the rest of the world, I am shocked and saddened to learn about the death of Charley Pride. He and I went back to the early days of his career in 1966 when he made his first nationwide appearance as a guest on my syndicated television show. In later years we toured together, shared music, and argued baseball endlessly. I saw first hand some of his early struggles as the first black performer in country music. My admiration for the way he handled himself during those years knows no bounds. I’ve lost a hero and a friend.
• Billy Dean – Charley Pride‘s voice and interpretation of country music transcended racial boundaries and southern prejudices. He opened the door for up-and-coming artists from different backgrounds to make it in country music, like my dear friend Neil McCoy, who I’m sure like me tonight is heartbroken.
• Billy Ray Cyrus – The last time I spoke to my good friend and legend Charley Pride. We met in ‘92 playing shows together in Australia. His beloved sweetheart Rosie by his side. A gentleman… legend and true trail blazer. With much respect.  Charley Pride opened the door for so many including me. He took down walls and barriers meant to divide. He became a bridge of music for music lovers who found they had way more in common than they had different.  And rules and stereotypes meant to separate were taken down and opened up to the free will of the artist and fan to become one in harmony and song.
  
• Blake Shelton – I’m very VERY sorry to hear the terrible news about Charley Pride.. Kiss An Angel Good Morning is one of my first memories of country music.
• Brad Paisley – The most generous, kind, trailblazing man has left us. I met Charley Pride when I was 15. He gave his home phone number to my dad, and said “I’d love to help your son.” And help he did. I am so blessed to have had so many memories with him.  I’m devastated.  You changed country music for the better, Charley. And you changed this kid’s life.  We love you. #charleypride
• Brandy Clark – Charley Pride….your music will always remind me of childhood days with my Grandma. “Kaw-Liga”, “Kiss an Angel Good Morning” & “You’re So Good When You’re Bad”…just to name a few. Thank you for sharing your talent with the world. Rest In Peace
• Brothers Osborne – This was the night we won our 1st CMA (tweet included a photo). First person we saw backstage was Charley Pride. A legends legend he was and will always be. His voice and presence was a true gift and the barriers he broke are forever unmatchable. Kiss those angels good morning, Mr. Pride. Rest In Peace.
• Carrie Underwood – What a sweet & legendary man. Whenever he saw you he would offer a smile & tell you your birthday. I don’t know how he remembered, but he always did…I’m so glad I got a few chances to be in the presence of Charley. Rest In Peace & sing with the angels…
• Charlie Daniels Jr. – Mom and I are saddened to hear of the passing of the great Charley Pride. He was a legend and a pioneer who broke down barriers in country music, and his impact on music in general is undeniable. He will be greatly missed. – CD, Jr.
• Charlie Worsham – so much to say about Charley Pride. id just encourage everyone to read up on his life & listen to his music today. his entire life is a lesson on how to be. this is 1 of 2 favorite songs of mine that he made famous (the other is “All I Have To Offer You Is Me) Roll On, MS (Tweet included a video)
• Chase Rice – Kiss an angel good mornin’. God bless you Charley Pride. Rest In Peace, and thank you for paving the way
• Chely Wright – Charley Pride was one of the most kind, generous, hospitable and talented people to ever grace a stage. Rest In Peace.
• Chris Janson – Saddened to hear the news that legendary Charley Pride has died. My heart breaks as 2020 gets worse. #RIP @opry family.
• Chris Young – I had the honor of meeting Charley Pride several times over the years… absolutely gutted to hear of his passing #RIP
• Clay Walker – Charlie Pride…Charlie Pride…Charlie Pride…never forget. My daddy’s favorite singer of all time. A TRUE American and lover of people. Rest in His hands…you are loved and missed
• Clint Black – Charley was one of the nicest guys I’ve met in this business and had such a great, natural voice. He’ll forever have a special place in our history and in our hearts.
• Cole Swindell – RIP Mr. Pride
• Collin Raye – I’m deeply saddened by the news today of Charley Pride‘s passing. What a sad year for our industry. We have already lost so many friends and legends and now Charley. What a kind, sweet, considerate man. He always, and I mean always, went out of his way to be friendly, supportive, complimentary, genuine and very human to all of us ‘younger’ artists. He was an absolute joy to be around. As an artist? Wow. Blazed a huge trail with that resonant, warm, unmistakable voice and a countless stream of huge country hits that spanned decades. A true legend in every sense of the word. A true man in every sense of the word. I always enjoyed talking baseball with him. Honored beyond words to have shared the stage with him on occasion. My love and sympathy go out to his dear family. My heart also goes out to my good friend Neal McCoy on this day for I know how much Neal loved Charley. God be with you, Charley. Safe now in eternity. May we never forget the great Charley Pride.
• Cowboy Troy – I’m thankful for the example Mr. Pride set. Hard work and country music.
• Crystal Gayle – Charley Pride has been a cornerstone of country music and a wonderful part of my life for so long. I loved his music before I came to Nashville and I loved Charley as soon as I met him. I always looked forward to working with Charley and I will always miss his warm smile, kind words, and beautiful heart.
• Dallas Remington – I am so sad to hear about the passing of Charley Pride. He was truly one of the greats. He will be missed.
• Danielle Peck – Another legend lost this year…Rest In Peace Charley!
• Darin & Brooke Aldridge – He took pride in his music and giving advice to younger artists. What an honor it was to be around him on several different occasions. The world is a better place because of the person he was and the songs he sang. Thank you Charley Pride for sharing your smile and your beautiful gift. Rest In Peace.
• Darius Rucker – My heart is so heavy. Charley Pride was an icon a legend and any other word u wanna use for his greatness. He destroyed Barriers and did things that no one had ever done. But today I’m thinking of my friend. Heaven just got one of the finest people I know. I miss and love u CP!
• Darryl Worley – Charley Pride was one of my very dear friends. On several occasions he shared with me the challenges that he faced as one of the few black men in our business that had huge success. And that made him very special in my book. Several years ago, Charley recorded a song of mine that I co-wrote with some friends. It became the title cut of his new album, Comfort of Her Wings. That for me was a dream come true. It’s hard to let go of someone so precious and such a dear friend. I already miss him. But I know that the Lord has a special place in the choir for him because there has never been a voice like Charley Pride‘s. I’ll see you on the other side, my friend.
• Dave Innis (Restless Heart) – Another profound loss not only for country music, but the entire creative world. Charley Pride was a trailblazer, tearing down stereotypes about who or what was country. Back in our early days of touring in the mid 80s, we heard Charley Pride on every truck stop jukebox in America. I’m so grateful he was recognized by the CMA shortly before his passing. Sending prayers of comfort to all who loved him and were inspired to break down barriers. Rest in peace Charley, your amazing voice is forever etched in our hearts
• David Ball – Very very sad news today. We have lost a pioneer, the great Charley Pride. Charley made some great records and his legacy will live long! Is Anybody Going To San Antone????
• David Frizzell – I am so saddened to hear of the passing of my friend, Charley Pride. Charley please “Say Hello To Heaven” for me.
• David Ray – #RIP Charley Pride. Thank you
• Deborah Allen – My heart is so heavy to know that our Dear Charley Pride has left us, even though we know it’s for a better place. Charley was the ultimate gentleman and legend in Country Music! He broke all boundaries in every way! He was always so open and friendly. I specifically remember, of all the people at the BMI Awards, Charley Pride was who my Daddy most wanted to meet! When I took him over to Charley, you would have thought they were long lost friends! That’s just the way Charley made everyone feel. He had a “Mountain Of Love” for everybody and was a huge gift to all who knew him.
• Dennis Quaid – Charley Pride was a global icon in music, baseball and business. He broke barriers, unprecedented at the time, and made us all realize that we have more in common than our differences. Charley was a great American and a good Christian. Perhaps one of his greatest accomplishments is his more than 60-year marriage to his lovely, devoted partner in life, his wife Rozene. As one of the producers of the ‘Charley Pride Story,’ I’ll make sure his story is not unsung to the younger generation. While Charley has left this Earth, he is now singing in the Heavenly choir.
• Devin O’Day – Charley had a voice identifiable in one note. He was like a machine in the studio…a one take master even if he sang a song more than once. He never wanted to be remembered because he was ‘the black guy’ who sang country music. No. He wanted to be known first as a great country singing entertainer…then as a devoted husband and father…and that he chose great songs. Though Charley broke the racial sound barrier in every way…he didn’t want to ever be signed as ‘the black guy’. He told me once that RCA signed him for his voice…they didn’t care if he was pink. They signed him for how he sounded.  That’s what Charley wants remembered. And oh…that voice. Charley…we will never forget you!
• Dolly Parton – I’m so heartbroken that one of my dearest and oldest friends, Charley Pride, has passed away. It’s even worse to know that he passed away from COVID-19. What a horrible, horrible virus. Charley, we will always love you. Rest In Peace. My love and thoughts go out to his family and all of his fans. – Dolly
• Don McLean – Charley Pride was the Jackie Robinson of country music and his name was perfect. He was proud, brave and a hell of a singer. I worked with him once and he sang the heck out of the old Hank Williams song Kaw-liga. His voice was large and pure. He belongs in centerfield where the monuments are. He was a great one.
• Doug Gray (Marshall Tucker Band) – Charley Pride broke barriers that were extremely hard in his early years… not only to win over friends and confidants but also to bring us many years of musical perfection. Rest in Peace, Charley.
• Doug Stone – I’ve lost many friends this year to COVID and I just can’t believe today’s news. Charley Pride was a pioneer in country music, but more than that, he was a dear friend. He gave me lots of advice over the course of my career & he’ll be sorely missed. Please wear a mask if you can. It’s not that hard. I wear mine everywhere I go. I’m not afraid of dying and I won’t let this control my life, but I believe we should all do our part. This is becoming too much. If you don’t do it for yourself, do it for people like Joe Diffie & Charley Pride. Do it for them if you would, please. Do it for me. We’re a breath away from death.
• Duane Allen (Oak Ridge Boys) – When I heard that Charley Pride had passed I just went numb. It hurts beyond words when someone you love passes. When Charley opened his theatre, he asked the Oak Ridge Boys to help him. I got to know Charley as a friend. We recorded with him on one of his last recordings. On the Country Music Cruise, I sat with Rozene and sang along with every big hit as Charley sang. I ask for prayers for Rozene and the family. We have lost another legend, folks. There is a big hole left in our industry. I have been singing “Kiss An Angel Good Morning” all day.”
• Flatland Cavalry – Kiss an angel good morning & love her like the devil when you get back home… RIP to the legend Charley Pride.
• Gatlin Brothers – Our old and great friend Charley Pride was to country music what Jackie Robinson was to baseball. A great talent, a great American and a great man. We send our love and condolences to Rozene and the family.
• Gene Watson – A true trailblazer in country music, the first to break racial barriers and a legendary singer. So thankful that we were good friends! And to think my brother used to work on his car! Charley Pride will surely be missed by everyone who loves true country music! RIP Charley.
• Henry Paul (BlackHawk) – Charley Pride broke down cultural barriers to become the first black man to be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His voice, at times reminiscent of Hank Williams Sr., was a welcome addition to country radio and he brought a dignified performance personality to the music of rural America. The heart of this great man has forever changed the landscape of country music.
• J.D. Shelburne – I am sad to hear about the passing of Charley Pride. I met him at the premiere of his documentary, “I Am Me.” I will never forget how kind he was to my wife. This one hurts. Prayers to the family.
• J.P. Pennington (Exile) – When Exile first became involved in Country Music, it wasn’t easy for a pop group like us trying to be accepted. Charley lent us his support and encouragement at a time when we needed it the most. We will be forever grateful. Rest well, brother.
• Jake Owen – We lost another great one today. A legend. A trailblazer.  Charley Pride. Thanks for all you did for Country Music Mr. Pride. We love ya.
• Jamie O‘Neal – Charley Pride blazed trails and broke the rules. His legacy will live on in his timeless music and giving spirit for generations to come. RIP Mr. Pride
• Janie Fricke – I’m so saddened to hear about Charley Pride. He gave me my start in country music concerts as I opened shows for him in Washington state, Canada, and many cities. His band backed me up, we flew on his private plane and it was a thrill of a lifetime, a dream come true. May peace and strength be with his family.
• Jason Aldean – Just learning of the passing of another one of our legends in Country Music. I can’t imagine what this man went through as a Black Country Music artist trying to break into this business, but what a career he had. RIP Mr. Charley Pride.
• Jason Isbell – It’s a sad day for American music, baseball, and generations of kids who very much needed a hero. #RIPCharleyPride
• Jay DeMarcus (Rascal Flatts) – This pandemic has taken another icon away from us. To say Charlie Pride was a legend would be an understatement. He was a pioneer, broke boundaries & one of the first to be bold enough to step out & show the world that country music was bigger than just 1 color. #RIPCharleyPride
• Jeannie Seely – My friendship with Charley goes back to his very first tour with Willie Nelson that I was privileged to be a part of also. As big as his voice was, his personality was even bigger… and his heart was even bigger than that. He loved jokes, loved stories, loved to laugh…. and loved us. I will miss all of this. He’s leaving us some wonderful memories. My heart goes out to Rozene’, his family, his Opry family and his many friends and fan.
• Jeff Cook (Alabama) – Charley has been a longtime friend and over the years I have always enjoyed laughing and exchanging jokes with him. We will miss you.
• Jimmy Wayne – When I met #CharleyPride I immediately noticed how kind he was. I told him I was a fan of his music and my Mom loved his music. She had only a few cassette tapes and a few of them were of his music. In respect. RIP, Mr. Pride
• Joe Bonsall (Oak Ridge Boys) – We have lost a dear long-time friend, hero, PIONEER, and LEGEND. This year keeps getting worse and worse. This will be another loss that will take a long time to process. Rest Easy Charley Pride…we all love you and will miss you terribly.
• John Anderson – Charley Pride broke down barriers for artists and fans of country music. He was an American icon and will be greatly missed around the world.
• John Berry – Saddened to hear of the passing of the great Charley Pride. I found him to be a man full of joy with a peaceful heart. My wife Robin was a huge fan and she often comes to me in the morning singing “Kiss An Angel Good Morning,” I oblige, and respond with “and love her like the devil when you get back home.” Charley will be missed, but his music will live on.
• John Michael Montgomery – I grew up listening to my Dad sing Charley Pride songs. We were hugs fans and I was lucky enough to cross paths with him over the years. This is such a loss to the country music community. He was a gentleman and a true legend. #RIPCharleyPride
• John Rich – Very sad to hear of the passing of a country legend, Mr Charley Pride. He was very kind to me early in my career, and his boldness and leadership as an African American country artist broke down many barriers for artists that followed. He will be greatly missed. #RIPCharliePride
• Johnny Lee – I am speechless and broken-hearted and don’t really know what to say. Country music has lost an icon, but I have lost a dear friend. Heaven must be putting together a band. My heart is with the family.
• Jordan Rager – 2020 continues to take from country music. RIP legend #CharleyPride
• Keith Urban – We lost a great one today. Charley was such a pioneer on so many levels, but for me he was among the first country music voices I heard on our family’s record player. I sang many of his songs in my cover band days, and so it was surreal to finally be on stage with him at our All For The Hall concert playing Kiss An Angel Good Morning. He was also one of kindest people I’ve ever met .
  Peace and blessings to your beautiful soul Charley – and to all of your family today 🙏 Keith
• Kelleigh Bannen – Heartbroken. I never met Charley Pride, but admired him from afar. His acceptance speech for the Lifetime Achievement #CMA award was such a stunning display of humility & humanity from a man who was truly a giant. RIP Mr Pride
• Kelly Lang – I’m heartbroken to hear about Charley’s passing. I’m so grateful to have had such a precious conversation with him recently. I loved how he always knew what zodiac sign everyone was the second he met them. What a terrible void he has left in not only our hearts but in the music world. What a courageous trailblazer he was. My prayers go out to his family. Rest In Peace.
• Kendell Marvel – Charlie Pride didn’t just break barriers he kicked em down! A True country legend that I never heard one negative thing about. RIP Mr Pride. Folks if ya don’t wear masks this shit is gonna hang around and we’re gonna lose more of our people so c’mon get your shit together!
• Kristin Chenoweth – Rest In Peace, Charley Pride. Thank you for the trail you blazed for so many. Thank you for the music. Sending all of my love to his family, friends, and fans.
• Kristian Bush (Sugarland) – RIP Mr. Pride. Grateful for you. God bless.
• Lacy J. Dalton – Charley was just a real, solid, kind human being. He’ll be a great voice in that heavenly choir.
• Larry Stewart (Restless Heart) – Our music family lost another legend and one of the kindest souls ever. Our friend Charley Pride will be missed and prayers go out to the entire family. RIP brother Charley.
• LeAnn Rimes – Really sad to see Charlie Pride has left us. I grew up on his music and have always appreciated his soul. #RIPCharleyPride My LovE goes out to his friends and family.
• Lee Greenwood – Charley Pride was a dear friend & truly one of the sweetest men in the music business. I was privileged to be his opening act when I first came to town.  He treated everyone with respect & kindness. I’m in shock & so sad because I lost a good friend, the music business lost an incredible artist and the world lost an amazing citizen. #CharleyPride #kissanangelgoodmorning
• Leroy Van Dyke – I knew Charley and worked shows with him from the very earliest days of his career and found him to be a credit to our business. We will miss him. Our best thoughts to Rozene and family.
• LoCash – Rest Easy Mr. Pride Thank You for your music.
• Lorrie Morgan – My heart is heavy tonight to lose a great man and a great country stylist. Mr. Pride was always kind to me and he was full of life. A true country legend and gentleman. God rest his soul and bless his family in this time.
• Lucas Hoge – We lost another great legend today, Charley Pride was a pioneer in country music and he will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
• Luke Combs – I had the pleasure of meeting Charley Pride when I was playing the @opry. I was in awe of his presence and his talent. So saddened by the news of his passing. He was a true legend and trailblazer. His impact on our genre and generations of artists will never be forgotten. Rip
• Maren Morris – I don’t want to jump to conclusions because no family statement has been made, but if this was a result of the CMAs being indoors, we should all be outraged. Rest in power, Charley.  Your voice. Your humility. The fact that the first time I ever visited the Opry, you were backstage holding court and I was trying not to eavesdrop.
• Mark Wills – Today, we lost another GREAT one! Mr Charlie always had a warm greeting and a wonderful story! He certainly will be missed! Rest In Peace #charliepride
• Marlon Hargis (Exile) – We’ve been lucky enough to work with Charlie through the years, going back to the late 1970’s. He was a great singer, a trailblazer, and a genuine legend. More importantly, he was a really nice guy – a true gentleman!
• Martina McBride – So saddened to hear about the passing of Charley Pride. Prayers for his wife Rozene and his family.
• Marty Raybon (Shenandoah) – Charley Pride was not only a country music artist, he was a legend, a patriarch to what is Country Music. I loved Charley Pride, my condolences to Rozene and the Pride family.
• Matt Stillwell – Rest In Peace Charley! #legend #TrailBlazer
• Mickey Lamantia – I’m saddened by the news of Charlie Pride’s passing, another legend taken away. In many ways his contribution to Country Music was equally important to that of Jackie Robinson (Baseball) and Jim Brown (Football)!! Country Music is better today because of him and is God Given Talent. R.I.P.
• Mike McGuire (Shenandoah) – Ever since I was a kid I’ve loved Charley Pride. And still to this day anytime I see a road sign to San Antonio I can’t help but sing, ‘Is anybody going to San Antone, or Phoenix Arizona’. What a legacy of great songs he left us. Prayers to Rozene and his family. RIP Charley. You were a good one buddy.
• Moe Bandy – Charley was one of my best friends. He was my neighbor when we both lived in Branson. One of the nicest guys I’ve ever met. I will miss him very much.
• Naomi Judd – Charley Pride was a true gentleman. I remember talking with him backstage about how proud he was standing up for his rights. He likened it to Rosa Parks refusing to go to the back of the bus.
• Neal McCoy – There is a Neal McCoy because there was a Charley Pride. No other way to put it. Charley and Rozene have meant the world to Melinda and me and our kids. We are forever indebted to them for their hospitality, their generosity, and their caring and loving ways. Charley is gone now but never forgotten by our family and many other families around this world for the love he has extended through his music and the overall kindness he showed while on this earth. We will see him again, and we will continue to love Rozene and their entire family for years to come.
• Noah Garner – Hard to hear we’ve lost another country music legend. Thank you Charley for the amazing music and influence. You will be missed greatly!
• Oak Ridge Boys – Oh no … we have lost another long time friend, pioneer, hero and LEGEND … this will be another loss that will be hard to process … Rest Easy Charley …. We will miss you terribly
• Paige King Johnson – I didn’t want to believe the news when I heard Mr. Charley had passed away. I remember watching him perform on the CMA Awards show just last month and still being in awe of his smooth voice that has been a staple in country music for so many years. This world will be a little less bright with him gone. My prayers go out to him and his family during these times.
• Parker McCollum – RIP Charlie Pride! I know my grandad is going to be lookin for you up there! Real country music has lost an icon!
• Paul Brandt – Whether it was playing baseball at a charity fundraiser, or hanging out backstage at the @opry, despite his accomplishments and superstardom, Charley Pride was the kind of guy who remembered people’s name. Even a new young artist from Canada.
• Phil Vassar – Charley Pride was truly a ground-breaker in country music. He was an amazing singer and an incredible human being. He will be greatly missed.
• Randy Owen (Alabama) – He and Rozene are true friends of mine and Kelly’s. Our thoughts and prayers are with Rozene and his family. Heaven awaits my friend, Charley.
• Ray Benson (Asleep at the Wheel) – Charley called me in March when he heard I got the virus. He wanted to make sure I was doin alright and that meant a lot to me. A great friend thru the years, a hero. This virus has taken many amazing people from us. RIP pal, and thank you for everything!
• Ray Stevens – Charley Pride was a longtime friend and great entertainer. I’ll miss him always calling me Ray Ragsdale and reminding me that I’m an Aquarius. RIP Charley, my friend.
• Reba McEntire – Charley Pride will always be a legend in Country music. He will truly be missed but will always be remembered for his great music, wonderful personality and his big heart. My thoughts are with his wife Rozene and their family. RIP, Charley.
• Reyna Roberts – Charley has made it possible for artists like me, Mickey, Darius, Jimmie, Kane… to be in country music. He showed us that a career in country music is possible, that we can be true to ourselves and create the music we love. He has paved a path that we’re able to walk down. He is a true legend and will never be forgotten.
• Rhonda Vincent – I was ten years old in 1972 standing on stage in Marceline, Missouri at the Frontier Jamboree when Charley Pride came on stage to sing his new number one song, “Kiss An Angel Good Morning”. I got my photo with Charley. I was awestruck watching a Grand Ole Opry star in person. The last time I saw Charley was when we filmed “Country’s Family Reunion”. He was always so friendly. We will miss his amazing voice and the trailblazer he was. Sending my thoughts and prayers to the family of Charley Pride.
• Richard Young (Kentucky Headhunters) – Charley Pride was what you call one-of-a-kind in so many ways. That voice! It drew you into any song he sang and made you believe it was you singing it and living it. Most importantly, he was one of the most dignified gentlemen ever to be a part of the music scene, worldwide. And it rubbed off on so many. Our thoughts are with his family and close friends.
• Rick Trevino – RIP Charlie Pride
• Ricky Skaggs – I loved Charley Pride and will miss his happy spirit. His voice was so unique, his records were so well done, he was a great entertainer, and he opened up a whole new market for Country Music. No wonder he is in the Hall of Fame.
• Ronnie Milsap – Charley Pride, a pioneer, a music man, a baseball player, a good friend and the love of Rozene’s life, has passed on. Without his encouragement when I was playing the Whiskey.A-Go-Go on the Sunset Strip in the ‘70s, I might have never made it to Nashville and to hear this news tears out a piece of my heart. That he died of COVID makes me even sadder. These are such sad days with too much loss. Please, to everyone who’s ever loved “Kiss An Angel Good Morning,” “Mountain of Love” or “Is Anybody Goin’ To San Antone,” wear a mask, wash your hands and be wise about gathering. We’ve lost too many, and I just want us all to be here to love each other and the music the way Charley always did for years to come.
• Sam Moore – Damn Covid. How dare it take Charley Pride away from us. If there was ever any justice in the world, it will come when everyone cares to wear a mask and get the vaccine, so we don’t lose anyone else to Covid. Charley Pride was always such a nice man. What a loss for all of the music industry and the world. Never in my lifetime have I met anyone more wonderful. My heartfelt prayers for his family.
• Sammy Kershaw – Is Anybody Goin to San Antone’ was the first song I ever sang when I started at 12 years old, 50 years ago, playing night clubs in southwest Louisiana. Gonna miss a wonderful and sweet man. It was a joy and honor to work with him last year. God bless you Charley and Rest in Peace.
• Sarah Darling – RIP Charley.
• Sara Evans – RIP Charlie Pride. Country music lost one of the greats. Prayers for his family.
• Scotty McCreery – Rest in peace, Charley Pride. A true legend and trailblazer.
• Shane Owens – I am so sad to hear of the passing of country music legend, Charley Pride. He is one of the best artists of all time and there will never be another one like him. Not only was he a legendary artist, but one of the kindest people I ever met. Any time we were ever at the same place regardless of how busy he would be, Charley always took the time to say hello, visit a bit and share a funny story. He’s truly the last of a dying breed in my book. Rest easy, sweet Charley.
• Steve Azar – I’m am saddened 2 hear the news of Charley Pride’s passing, one of the most beautiful men I’ve ever met. Truly one of Mississippi’s greatest ever! Grateful I got 2 spend a little time with him recently. R.I.P my friend!  Charley Pride was so wonderful to me, and I was always was in awe to be in his presence and so appreciative to have his respect. He changed the world. Heaven’s Choir of Angels just got a new member. Blessings, man we’re all gonna miss you!
• Steve Holy – Charley Pride, you were one of my heroes. RIP legend. Go rest high on that Mountain of Love Charley
• Steve Wariner – Charley was a dear friend, who without question, impacted my life. He gave this young kid a chance to tour the world with him even before I had a record out! It would have been impossible for him to be any more gracious. I will always be grateful to Charley for many reasons. He definitely was a pioneer, knocking down doors for so many to follow. We all owe him a debt of gratitude. My love and condolences go out to his sweet wife Rozene and the entire Pride family.
• Suzy Bogguss – So saddened to hear of Charley Pride’s passing. DC and I are having a listen to the many albums Doug was 2nd engineer on at RCA! I’m getting some wonderful stories as well. What a special person and genuine generous artist @charleyprideofficial was. RIP, CP, we will always cherish your original voice and love of country music
• T.G. Sheppard – Just when I think 2020 couldn’t get any worse, it does. One of my dearest friends and one of country music’s biggest stars Charley Pride may have left for home today, but my 50 years of wonderful memories with him will never be gone” My prayers are with Rozene and their family.
• T. Graham Brown – First time I met Charley Pride was in 1983 at the old RCA Records “Studio A”. He walked up to me and told me I was a Scorpio. He could do things like that. We became and remained friends since that day. He and Rozene were dear friends of ours. The music business has lost one of the all-time greats! Prayers and condolences to his family and everyone that loved him. RIP, my brother.
• Tanya Tucker – It’s such a sad day saying so long to #CharleyPride. I’m just so thankful I got to sing a song with him. That’s where this pic was taken. I also narrated his I’ll Be Me documentary. My heart, my love, my soul… everything goes out to Rozene and the entire Pride family.
• Taylon Hope – So heartbreaking to hear about the passing of country music legend and Grand Ole Opry member, Charley Pride. Loved his music, his bravery, and what he stood for to pave a path for other artists. Prayers for his family, friends, and fans. He will be truly missed. His music will forever live on and he will always be such an inspiration.
• Taylor Hicks – Charley Pride was a fantastic country singer,  entertainer, and truly the pride of Country Music. His voice will be missed.
• Teddy Gentry (Alabama) – Charley’s smile always lit up the room. His historic Hall of Fame career lit up an industry. Tonight I’m sure he’s still lightening them up… just a little higher up.
• Terri Clark – Charley Pride’s “Greatest Hits“ record was on a loop in my childhood home. His was the first live concert I ever attended. Charley Pride, thank you for breaking down walls and lifting up hearts. You will be sorely missed.
• Tim Atwood – He was named Pride for a reason. Charley brought honor to country music–breaking through barriers that I can only imagine. His rise to fame is historic. I was honored to play for Charley on the Grand Ole Opry, and I even recorded with him once. It was a thrill for me every time. He was a Christian man who was also fascinated by astrology. After talking with you for a few minutes, he would announce that he could tell what sign you were born under. He pegged me for a Taurus after two minutes of conversation, and darn if he wasn’t right. I am lifting Rozene and the entire Pride family up in prayer today. Charley Pride made us all proud, and he will be greatly missed.
• Tim McGraw – Charley was a part of my career from the earliest days when I was hanging out with Byron Gallimore at Pride Music Group. Charley was just the nicest man, generous of heart and spirit. So kind. Musically he will always be a legend and one of the country greats.  As a man, he’ll always be an inspiration. He worked hard no matter what obstacle he faced and his willingness to break down racial barriers changed our world for the better. We love you and thank you. Our hearts go out to Rozene and the family. We will miss you Charley.
• Tim Rushlow – I remember singing “Mountain of love” at the battle of the bands at the Texas State Fair at age 16. Mr. Charlie Pride was and will always be a trailblazer to all people and to all country music lovers. He was always first class to me, always! Rest In Peace Mr. Pride.
• Tracy Lawrence – I’m so sorry to hear of the passing of the great Charley Pride. I’ve known him for many years and have been a fan of his since I was a kid. He was always very kind and supportive of me. He was such a pioneer in country music and left his mark on all of us. Rest In Peace, Charley.
• Travis Denning – Charley Pride was an amazing groundbreaking and barrier breaking artist. His amazing legacy and story will be one I’ll tell my grandkids one day. RIP Charley and thanks for the music.
• Travis Tritt – I’m so sad to learn that Charley Pride has passed away at the age of 86. Charley opened doors for so many artists and I was proud to record with him and to know him as my friend. He will be sorely missed, but his music will live on forever. Deepest condolences to his family.
• Trisha Yearwood – Charley Pride was a hero, and a trailblazer in country music. Everyone who had the pleasure of knowing Charley loved him. He was truly one of the kindest people I’ve ever met. I am saddened beyond belief. My heart is with Rozene and the family tonight.
• Whoopi Goldberg – My friend Charley Pride passed away today. He was a man I very much admired because he took the road less traveled by becoming not just a country singer but a driving force in country music. More than 50 of his songs have been in the top 10 AND his music has hit #1 30 times. I wanted Charley to be recognized by the Kennedy Center because as a black man his life was large and I thought after being a baseball player, a business owner, and the only black man most of us knew who sang country music, he should have gotten The Kennedy Center Honors. I will simply say he was a wonderful man & a great artist. My condolences to his family and the fact this is also another COVID-related death breaks my heart because it didn’t have to be this way. Rest In Peace Charley Pride, RIP. Many thanks to the CMAs for recognizing Charley Pride’s achievements this year.