Billy Sherrill Dies: Famed Country Music Producer Was 78
Billy Sherrill has died at the age of 78. According to reports, the legendary producer and songwriter passed away at his home on Tuesday morning — following a short illness. Sherill is best known for his collaborations with Tammy Wynette and George Jones.
A native of Phil Campbell, Alabama, Sherrill began his career as a musician. Although he had a keen interest in music and played the saxophone in a blues band, Billy had far greater success working behind the scenes.
In the early 1960s, Billy Sherrill moved to Nashville to manage Sam Phillips’ Sun Records studio. By 1963, he was hired as a producer for Epic Records.
CMT Artists reports Sherrill was not a fan of country music — until he moved to Nashville. As he had little to no experience with the genre, he soon developed his own unique style of production.
It is with heavy hearts we share that #CMHOF member Billy Sherrill has passed away http://t.co/jY7VLeL8J3 pic.twitter.com/Mia48g8wXt
— Country Music HOF (@countrymusichof) August 4, 2015
As reported by Variety, Billy Sherrill “was a key auteur of the countrypolitan sound,” which combined country music with pop elements — including orchestra accompaniments and strong background vocals.
In the mid 1960s, Billy was introduced to David Houston. Although the singer had great success with his hit single Mountain of Love, he was in danger of becoming a “one hit wonder.”
In an attempt to revive Houston’s career, Sherrill encouraged him to record several songs — which the producer helped write.
Livin’ in a House Full of Love and Almost Persuaded were both instant hits. In 1966, David Houston’s version of Almost Persuaded won a Grammy for Best Country & Western Song.
Billy Sherrill is also credited with launching the career of Tammy Wynette.
A hairdresser and waitress, the aspiring songstress was turned down by several record labels. However, with Sherrill’s help, Wynette became a legend.
Like Houston, Wynette was encouraged to record several songs — which Billy helped write. Her first successful single, “Your Good Girl’s Gonna Go Bad,” reached number three on the Country Singles chart.
Billy later helped launch the careers of Charlie Rich, Barbara Mandrell, and George Jones. Throughout his career, he produced or wrote countless songs for award winning musicians including Ray Charles, Ronnie Milsap, Marty Robbins, Johnny Paycheck, Kenny Rogers, and Dottie West.
Prior to his death, Billy Sherrill was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Although Billy Sherrill has died, he will always be remembered for his unique influence on the sound of country music.
[Image via Shutterstock]
