Nanci Griffith, dubbed a ‘musical legend’ in the folk genre, has died, her record label has confirmed.
The singer, who sang alongside fellow masters like Bob Dylan, John Prine, and Emmylou Harris, passed away on Friday.
Her cause of death has not been revealed.
The songwriter, aged 68, died in her Nashville hometown, according to a statement released by Rounder Records.
Her former record label said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened to hear that Nanci Griffith has passed. Our condolences to her family, friends, and many fans. May she Rest in Peace”.
Nanci is a survivor of breast cancer after being diagnosed in 1996, and two years later she was diagnosed and beat thyroid cancer.
(Image: Getty Images)
She received considerable acclaim for her work, including a covers collection in 1993 called Other Voices, Other Room.
On the album, the Texas native sang with the likes of Bob Dylan, Emmylou Harris, and John Prine.
The year after its release, it won the Grammy for Best Contemporary Folk Album, and even beat Bob’s release from the same time.
Other singers also covered her song which later became big hits, including Kathy Mattea’s first Top 10 hit, Love at the Five and Dime, as well as Suzy Bogguss’ Outbound Plane.
(Image: Getty Images)
Country superstar and Hootie & the Blowfish frontman Darius Rucker honored the singer and branded her his “idol.”
He wrote: “Today I am just sad man.
“I lost one of my idols. One of the reasons I am in Nashville. She blew my mind the first time I heard Marie and Omie.
“And singing with her was my favorite things to do. Grammy-winning folk singer-songwriter Nanci Griffith dies.”
(Image: Getty Images)
Singer-songwriter Suzy Bogguss, paid tribute.
She said: “A beautiful soul that I love has left this earth.
“I feel blessed to have many memories of our times together along with most everything she ever recorded.
“I’m going to spend the day reveling in the articulate masterful legacy she’s left us.”
CEO of Country Music Hall of Fame, Kyle Young, penned: “Nanci Griffith was a master songwriter who took every opportunity to champion kindred spirits.
(Image: Getty Images)
“Her voice was a clarion call, at once gentle and insistent. She offered gifts that no one else could give.”
Fans are also heartbroken by the news, with many describing they’ll never forget her “incredible” lyrics.
One avid follower wrote: “We are so saddened to hear of Nanci’s passing…
“We named our daughter after this wonderful legend (middle name) and have enjoyed playing her songs over the years.
“She was a massive inspiration to us… Thank you for the music, Nanci.”
Another fan added: “Very sorry to hear of the passing of Nanci Griffith, a great songwriter, and wonderful performer, weaving magical stories.
“I saw her numerous times in concert in London and once in California where I briefly met her…”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
