Emery “passed away peacefully” Saturday morning, surrounded by his family at Tristar Centennial Medical Center in Nashville, on tennessian reported, citing a family statement.
Emery was born on March 10, 1933 in McEwen, Tennessee. He began his career in the early 1950s at small state radio stations before becoming one of the most famous television and radio personalities in country music, including announcing on the Grand Ole Opry from 1961 to 1964, according to the Country Music Hall of Fame.
“Ralph Emery’s impact in expanding the audience for country music is incalculable. On radio and television, he let fans know the people behind the songs. Ralph was more of a great conversationalist than ‘a calculated interviewer…Above all else, he believed in music and the people who make it,’ Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, said in a tribute on his site.
Emery was inducted into the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame in 1989 and the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2007.
“Ralph Emery was often better known than the stars he introduced to a growing audience over the years as country music’s foremost ambassador,” said Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association, in a press release.
“Our format has had no better voice over the years than Ralph, who has treated country music and its stars – many of whom have become his friends – with the kind of dignity and respect they have deserved for decades. As a Country Music Hall of Famer, he will be remembered among so many artists he has supported throughout his career.”
Loretta Lynn, country music legend and Emery’s “dear friend”, tweeted“It breaks my heart to learn of Ralph Emery’s passing. Ralph and I are going back. He was a Nashville original and you can’t underestimate the role he played in the growth and success of country music. He made you feel comfortable and interviewed everyone like an old friend.”
In a tweetthe city of Nashville mourned Emery.
“Your legacy will live forever, Ralph. Thank you for all you have done.”
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