The music world is mourning the loss of Mac Davis, who died on Tuesday (Sept. 29th) night at the age of 78 after undergoing heart surgery. The singer-songwriter penned such iconic hits as Elvis Presley‘s “In The Ghetto” and “A Little Less Conversation,” along with songs recorded by Rascal Flatts, Dolly Parton, Ray Price, and Kenny Rogers, to name a few. He recorded such classic hits as “Texas in My Rearview Mirror,” “Baby Don’t Get Hooked on Me,” “Stop and Smell the Roses,” and “Hooked on Music.”
During his five-decade career, Davis also made his mark as a film actor, Broadway musical star, television personality and music publisher.
Several of Davis' friends in Country music shared tributes to the late singer:
Kenny Chesney: “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. I was blessed to have it shine on me.”
Reba McEntire: “Thank you, dear Lord Jesus, for letting us know the man to whom you gave the most incredible talent. He entertained and spread joy to so many people. What a wonderful legacy he left all of us with his music. Mac was one of a kind. I’m so blessed to have been one of his many friends.”
Travis Tritt: “I grew up watching The Mac Davis show and loving his talent. This is heartbreaking! 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.”
Jake Owen: “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”
While details for arrangements are pending, Davis will be buried in his hometown of Lubbock, TX and in a nod to his song “Texas In My Rear View Mirror,” he will be in his jeans, according to his publicist.