Mac Davis, Country Music Great and Celebrated Elvis Songwriter, Has Died
Photo by Ebet Roberts/Redferns/Getty Images
We're sad to report that Mac Davis, celebrated country music singer and songwriter, died on Tuesday, September 29, following complications from heart surgery at the age of 78. The artist, wrote the 1972 pop hit "Baby Don’t Get Hooked on Me,” and was widely known and respected for penning a slew of chart-toppers for Elvis Presley, including “A Little Less Conversation,” “Memories,” and “In the Ghetto." He also was the host of NBC variety show The Mac Davis Show from 1974 to 1976.
Born in Lubbock, Texas, Davis, the artist had a lengthy and illustrious career, including a 1974 win for the Academy of Country Music Award for Entertainer of the Year, an accolade for which he inched out his competition of Loretta Lynn, Merle Haggard, Ronnie Milsap, and Roy Clark.
On social media, many fellow country music stars shared heartfelt words on the loss of their beloved friend and colleague. "Many hearts are broken today, including my own, with the death of one of my dearest friends, Mac Davis. We lost one of the world’s greatest writers, singers, and entertainers," wrote Dolly Parton on Twitter. "My love and sympathy goes out to Lisë, his precious wife, his children, and his grandchildren. Rest in peace, my friend. I will always love you, Dolly"
Many hearts are broken today, including my own, with the death of one of my dearest friends, Mac Davis. We lost one of the world’s greatest writers, singers, and entertainers (1/2) pic.twitter.com/MUt66wtwEn
— Dolly Parton (@DollyParton) September 30, 2020
We're also moved by the words of Kenny Chesney, who wrote, "A small town boy who'd achieved the greatest kinds of fame, he remained a good guy, a family man. That was Mac: A giant heart, quick to laugh, and a bigger creative spirit." Read his full message below.
Goodbye to my great friend Mac Davis. pic.twitter.com/enll3MAQ4O
— Kenny Chesney (@kennychesney) September 30, 2020
See more tributes from country stars below.
I am heartbroken this morning learning of the passing of my friend Mac Davis. He was an incredible songwriter and guitar player. He’d penned songs for Elvis to Avicii. More importantly, he was a great husband and a father. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Love ya Mac
— Jake Owen (@jakeowen) September 30, 2020
Very sad tonight! I just heard that legendary singer, songwriter and actor, Mac Davis has passed away after heart surgery. I grew up watching The Mac Davis show and loving his talent. This is heartbreaking!
— Travis Tritt (@Travistritt) September 30, 2020
Mac Davis was once asked by a TV audience member to write a song about a rubber duck. He instantly wrote: “I was sitting in the bathtub when my toe got stuck. The jerk I made caused a tidal wave and squashed my rubber duck!” Funny guy with a tremendously quick wit. 😂
— Travis Tritt (@Travistritt) September 30, 2020
This is such a drag. RIP to the incredible #MacDavis. Thank you for your incredible songs and your kindness to me. It was an honor to hear you tell me stories. pic.twitter.com/8UEb5LXSKt
— Richard Marx (@richardmarx) September 30, 2020
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We extend our deepest condolences to the Davis family during this sad time. We know his music legacy will be a light for generations to come.
