Eddy Arnold was one of the most influential and successful country music singers of all time. He sold more than 85 million records, had 147 songs on the Billboard country music charts, and was a pioneer of the Nashville sound, a style that blended country and pop music. He was also a member of the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. But how did he die and what was his legacy?
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The Final Years of Eddy Arnold
Eddy Arnold was born on May 15, 1918, in Henderson, Tennessee. He grew up on a farm and learned to play guitar from his mother. He began his musical career in the 1930s, performing on radio shows and in nightclubs. He signed with RCA Victor in 1944 and became a star with hits like “That’s How Much I Love You”, “I’ll Hold You in My Heart”, and “Bouquet of Roses”. He also collaborated with legendary manager Colonel Tom Parker, who later worked with Elvis Presley.
In the late 1950s, Arnold changed his musical style to appeal to a wider audience. He adopted a smoother vocal delivery and added strings and background vocals to his recordings. He scored crossover hits like “Make the World Go Away”, “What’s He Doing in My World”, and “I Want to Go with You”. He also appeared on television shows and movies, such as The Ford Show and The Tennessee Ernie Ford Show.
Arnold continued to record and perform throughout the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, although his popularity declined as country music became more traditional and rock-oriented. He also faced personal challenges, such as the death of his son Richard in a car accident in 1973 and the loss of his voice due to a throat infection in 1977.
In the 1990s, Arnold experienced a resurgence of interest in his music. He released new albums, such as The Last of the Love Song Singers and After All These Years, which received critical acclaim and Grammy nominations. He also received several honors, such as a lifetime achievement award from the Recording Academy and an induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Arnold retired from performing in 1999, but remained active in the music industry. He recorded a duet with LeAnn Rimes for her album Family in 2007. He also supported various charitable causes, such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and MusiCares.
Eddy Arnold Cause of Death: Natural Causes
Eddy Arnold died on May 8, 2008, at the age of 89. He passed away at NHC Place, an assisted living facility near Nashville, Tennessee. His death was caused by natural causes, according to his publicist Don Cusic . He had been suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for several years .
Arnold’s death came just two months after the death of his wife of 66 years, Sally Gayhart Arnold . She died on March 11, 2008, at the age of 87. She had been battling cancer for a long time .
Arnold is survived by his daughter Jo Ann Pollard, his son Jerry Arnold, two grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren .
Eddy Arnold Legacy: A Country Music Icon
Eddy Arnold is widely regarded as one of the greatest country music artists of all time. He influenced generations of singers, such as Marty Robbins, Jim Reeves, Glen Campbell, Elvis Presley, Ray Price, Willie Nelson, George Strait, Vince Gill, Brad Paisley, and Carrie Underwood .
He is also remembered for his contributions to the Nashville sound, a genre that expanded the appeal of country music to mainstream audiences. He helped shape the sound with his producer Chet Atkins and his arranger Bill Walker .
He is also celebrated for his longevity and versatility as a performer. He recorded songs in various styles, such as honky-tonk, pop, gospel, folk, and Christmas music. He also adapted to changing musical trends and tastes throughout his career .
He is also honored for his humanitarian work and philanthropy. He supported many causes that benefited children, musicians, veterans, animals, and education .
Eddy Arnold was a country music legend who left behind a rich legacy of songs, awards, fans, and friends. He will always be remembered as the Tennessee Plowboy who made the world go away with his voice.
