Twenty seven years ago today, country music lost the legendary Keith Whitley. He was just 33 years old, but he left his footprint on the hearts of many in country music, even to this day. The Sandy Hook, Kentucky native had 19 singles that charted on the Billboard Country Music Charts. Many songs are still covered by others, including "Don't Close Your Eyes," "When You Say Nothing At All," and his first top 20 song, "Miami, My Amy."
Keith Whitley and his legacy released 5 studio albums and 11 compilation albums. He was also a part of Ralph Stanley's bluegrass band, playing alongside fellow Kentuckian, Ricky Skaggs. He was a husband to Lorrie Morgan, as well as a father to Jesse Keith Whitley, who also performs country music.
Keith Whitley is a member of the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame. However, he is not a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, an honor that is long overdue.
On June 25, 2016, the annual Keith Whitley Memorial Bike Ride will be held. It starts at the Red Roof Inn in Goodlettsville, Tennesee. The event kicks off Friday, June 24th around 2PM and goes through Sunday morning. The actual ride is on Saturday morning with a concert on Saturday night at the Nashville Palace. More information on the ride can be found here.
