Nashville songwriter and musical artist Keith Gattis has died at the age of 52.
His death was confirmed on Sunday following news of a car accident, though no cause of death was reported.
Keith Gattis, Songwriter for George Strait and Kenny Chesney, Dead at 52: 'An Incredible Talent' https://t.co/o3cSgcmu6K
— People (@people) April 25, 2023
"Originally from Georgetown, Tex., Gattis started out as a solo artist with RCA Records. He released a self-titled debut album in 1996 with the single "Little Drops of My Heart" reaching close to the Top 40 of Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks, according to Rolling Stone," People reported.
"Per his website, Gattis played guitar on tour and was the band leader and producer for Dwight Yoakam. In 2005, he dropped his second studio album Big City Blues and began writing and recording tracks for Strait and Chesney," it added.
Woke up to the news that Keith Gattis has gone on. He was a wonderful person, an incredible talent, and a well loved friend to all who knew him. He will be missed.#keithgattis https://t.co/x4yJWxdDRm
— Sheryl Crow (@SherylCrow) April 24, 2023
A number of musical artists offered reactions and words of tribute following the report of his death.
"Woke up to the news that Keith Gattis has gone on. He was a wonderful person, an incredible talent, and a well loved friend to all who knew him. He will be missed," Sheryl Crow tweeted.
R.I.P. Keith Gattis. https://t.co/H3evyH2FSj
— American Songwriter (@AmerSongwriter) April 24, 2023
“I never thought I wouldn’t sing those words with you again, my friend. We are all heartbroken. This one hits us hard….and I don’t know how we will ever recover. I guess we aren’t supposed to get over some things….” Melonie Cannon wrote.
“I love you forever, Gattis. Norro was right about you all those years ago. You WERE as special as he said you were. I am thankful I know that deeply.”
Gattis was more known for his songwriting credits than his own tunes. He worked with music legends, including Willie Nelson, George Jones and George Strait throughout his career.
His well-known lyrics have been sung by millions and will continue to impact generations of music-lovers, including many who will never know him by name.
Gattis left a deep impact in Nashville and the music industry loved and missed by his many friends, family, fans and those who collaborated with him in the music world.
