COUNTRY Legend Charley Pride has passed away at the age of 86 after a battle with Covid.
According to a press release from his representative, the performer died in Dallas, Texas due to complications from the virus.
Plenty of tributes poured in for the entertainer as one person wrote: “My love and prayers go out to his family and friends,” while another added, “RIP to an all-time country music legend and longtime North Texas neighbor, Charley Pride. You’ll always be one of our favorites!”
Known as “country music’s first Black superstar,” Charley was best known for such tunes as Mountain Of Love and Kiss An Angel Good Mornin’.
He first kicked off his career in 1966 with his single Just Between You and Me – this song went straight to the top 10.
This was followed by five more of his tunes finding the top of the charts, and in 1969, Charley finally got his first number one single with All I Have To Offer You (Is Me).
Charley was not done there as he found success throughout the 1970s as well, watching each of his albums hit half a million sales.
He was also the first Black member of the Country Music Hall Of Fame – however, that was not his only award throughout his incredible career.
Charley was also presented Country Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year award in 1971, and was also given a Lifetime Achievement Award this year.
Charley is survived by his wife, Ebby Rozene Cohran Pride, as well as his three kids: sons Carlton and Charles, and daughter, Angela.
He was last seen performing a few weeks ago at Nashville’s Music City Center.
