Controversial outlaw country music star David Allan Coe dies aged 86
(Picture: Rick Kern/WireImage for Shock Ink)
David Allan Coe, a controversial country music outlaw and singer, has died at the age of 86.
The singer-songer scored his biggest hits in the 1980s with songs like The Ride and Mona Lisa Lost Her Smile, but was heavily criticised for using racial slurs in his music and for his habit of displaying the Confederate flag.
Coe died at 5.08pm local time on Wednesday, his representative confirmed to People Magazine, adding: ‘David was a country music treasure and loved his fans.
‘Most importantly, he was a true outlaw and a great singer, songwriter, and performer.’
No cause of death has not yet been confirmed, although Page Six reported that Coe was in an intensive care unit after ‘years of declining health’.
The musician, who boasted a near 60-year career, was born in Akron, Ohio in 1939, spending much of his childhood and the next two decades of his life in reform school and then correctional facilities, where he developed his interest in music.
After heading to Nashville in 1967 upon release, he busked on the street to support his career before releasing his first album in 1970, Penitentiary Blues.
In the 1970s he also wrote hit songs for others, including number one coutry singles Would You Lay with Me (In a Field of Stone), which Tanya Tucker covered, and Take This Job and Shove It for Johnny Paycheck.
More to follow.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
Outlaw Country Pioneer Passes at 86 as Heartbroken Fans Flood Social Media With Tributes Entertainment Some voices never fade. They live in the songs we carry long after the radio moves on. Country music lost one of those voices this week, and the outpouring of love from fans and fellow artists has been nothing short of extraordinary. David Allan Coe, the outlaw country legend who rewrote what…
The Voice star Dylan Carter dies aged 24 after horrific car accident Entertainment Dylan Carter, who competed on season 24 of The Voice, has died in South Carolina (Picture: NBC) Dylan Carter, who competed on season 24 of The Voice, has died at the age of 24. The singer died following a car accident in Colleton County, South Carolina, on Saturday, after losing…
Hot Chocolate star Tony Wilson, famous for You Sexy Thing, dies aged 78 Entertainment Hot Chocolate star Tony Wilson (2nd R, pictured in 1974 with the band) has died (Picture: Michael Putland/Getty Images) Tony Wilson, a member of the band Hot Chocolate who co-wrote their iconic hit song You Sexy Thing, has died aged 78. Wilson was the band’s bassist and songwriter, as well…
Daughter of Columbo star Peter Falk dies by suicide aged 60 Entertainment Jackie Falk, one of Peter Falk’s daughters, has died at 60 years old in California (Picture: Margaret C. Norton/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images) Jacqueline Falk – the daughter of actor Peter Falk, who was known for his role as Lieutenant Columbo in Columbo – has died…
Stagecoach 2026: 5 Surprise guests that wowed fans at the country music festival News Surprise guests are a tradition at the Stagecoach Country Music Festival, just as they are at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. Just a week after memorable guest performances like Madonna and Olivia Rodrigo at Coachella, this weekend’s genre-specific celebration had many viewers wondering who would take the stage…
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.
