Beloved country artist Hal Ketchum has died at the age of 67, due to complications of dementia.
The announcement of his passing was shared by his wife Andrea via Facebook. She wrote, “With great sadness and grief we announce that Hal passed away peacefully last night at home due to complications of Dementia. May his music live on forever in your hearts and bring you peace.”
Through his father, Hal knew the music of country legends Marty Robbins and Patsy Cline. As a youth, he even joined Buck Owens’ fan club. Hal started playing drums at age 15, though he later switched to guitar. Although he enjoyed music, he spent nearly 20 years as a carpenter and furniture builder before getting his break in the music business.
In 1981, Hal left New York for Austin, Texas, and honed his songwriting skills in that town’s clubs. He released 10 of his songs on a 1986 album called Threadbare Alibis. At the same time, he began making trips from Austin to Nashville.
Hal Ketchum sold over five million albums and had half-dozen Top 10 hits – including staples like “Small Town Saturday Night” and “Hearts Are Gonna Roll.” He was also a member of the Grand Ole Opry, joining the cast on January 22, 1994.
The Opry shared on Facebook a quote from Ketchum, “There is an indescribable place on that stage where it feels like you are a part of history, a very fine history, and I really like that a lot. I felt the magic of the Opry the first time, and, so, I came to it in amazement.” – Hal Ketchum
It continued “Thank you, Hal, for your contributions to our Opry family- you’ll forever have a place in our hearts and our home.”
An established painter, Hal’s work has been shown in Santa Fe, New Mexico’s esteemed Pena Gallery, where he had a successful art show opening in 2002. He also was a master carpenter who liked to make toys. He was a true artisan and a musician’s musician.
Ketchum retired from touring back in 2019 after he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
It was sad to hear of Hal's passing. RIP Hal. I send my deep condolences to Hal's family and friends. Bob
ReplyDeleteIt was nice that WSM did an encore show tonight that had Hal Ketchum on it. RIP Hal. Bob
ReplyDeleteThis is sad to hear. Hal was a true friend of the Opry, and it was always great hearing him perform on the stage. His rendition of "Wings of a Dove" was beautiful. He will definitely be missed.
ReplyDeleteI thought of--and found on You Tube, though a grainy copy--of the night he was inducted, sang "Wings of a Dove," and brought Ferlin Husky out to sing it with him. He said he wanted to honor the legends. To do that, he gave up HIS moment. That spoke volumes.
ReplyDeleteHis singing style seemed effortless, but his voice was very calming. I hope his family finds peace in knowing the enjoyment he brought to so many.
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