Controversial singer-songwriter David Allan Coe died at 86 on Wednesday, his representative confirmed. The musical artist passed away at around 5:08 p.m., according to a statement provided to People magazine, which described him as a 'Country Music treasure [who] loved his fans.' The statement further noted that 'most importantly, he was a true outlaw and a great singer, songwriter, and performer.'
A Divisive Figure
Coe was a polarizing figure in country music, known for his use of racial slurs in his material and his fondness for displaying the Confederate flag. He had been in an intensive care unit at the time of his death, according to Page Six.
Musical Legacy
Coe was best known for songs such as 'You Never Even Called Me by My Name' (1975), 'Longhaired Redneck' (1976), 'The Ride' (1983), and 'Mona Lisa Lost Her Smile' (1984). Over nearly six decades as a performer, he released a total of 42 studio albums.
Early Life and Career
Born in Akron, Ohio, Coe spent time in jail in his 20s, where he began to develop an interest in music. After his release from custody in 1967, he moved to Nashville and performed as a busker. In 1970, he released his first record, 'Penitentiary Blues'.
Coe continued to work as a songwriter, penning the country chart-topping 1973 track 'Would You Lay with Me (In a Field of Stone)' for Tanya Tucker. In 1974, he released 'The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy', an album named after the rhinestone-studded attire he wore on stage.
Chart Success
In 1975, Coe released 'Once Upon a Rhyme', which included the top 10 country hit 'You Never Even Called Me by My Name'. He also wrote the 1977 song 'Take This Job and Shove It' for Johnny Paycheck, which earned him a Grammy nomination.
Health Struggles and Final Years
Coe had faced health issues in recent years, including a hospitalization in 2021 after contracting COVID-19, as reported by Page Six. Two years earlier, he had undergone knee replacement surgery.
Survivors
Coe is survived by his spouse, Kimberly Hastings Coe; his son, Tyler Mahan Coe; and his daughter, Tanya Coe.
