Recording Academy Issues Statement on Passing of Country Music Legend Merle Haggard

FOX News reported earlier today that Country music legend Merle Haggard, well known for his such as "Okie From Muskogee" and "Mama Tried," passed way today, April 6th, his 79th birthday.

According to Haggard's manager, Frank Mull, the country music star died in Palo Cedro, California, of pneumonia that he had been battling for months. In recent years he had been touring across the country, however he had to cancel several shows this year due to pneumonia in both lungs.

The Recording Academy has issued the following statement on his passing:

April 6, 2016

Two-time GRAMMY® Award winner and 2006 Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Merle Haggard was an uncommon hero in country music. An exceptional multitalented singer/songwriter, guitarist, and fiddler, Merle's massive success was rooted in his masterful ability to celebrate the outlaws and the underdogs.

Merle's extraordinary talent resulted in more than 30 No. 1 country hits and his remarkable performances will forever live on and inspire music creators worldwide. We have lost an innovative member of the music community and our sincerest condolences go out to Merle's family, friends, collaborators and all who have been impacted by his incredible work. He will truly be missed.

Neil Portnow
President/CEO
The Recording Academy