The Outlaw Who Wrote Country Music's Greatest Songs Is Gone

The Outlaw Who Wrote Country Music's Greatest Songs Is Gone

Outlaw country pioneer David Allan Coe died on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the age of 86. He passed away around 5:00 p.m. while in the intensive care unit of a hospital following a period of declining health. His death was confirmed by his widow, Kimberly Hastings Coe, and his booking agent. Coe was a central figure in the 1970s outlaw country movement alongside Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings. Known for his rebellious persona and prolific songwriting, he is perhaps best remembered for: Signature Hits: His most famous solo tracks include "You Never Even Called Me by My Name" (often called the "perfect country and western song") and "The Ride". Songwriting Legacy: He wrote massive hits for other artists, most notably "Take This Job and Shove It" for Johnny Paycheck and "Would You Lay With Me (In a Field of Stone)" for Tanya Tucker. Controversial Image: Coe’s career was marked by his history as a former inmate and his "X-rated" underground albums, which drew widespread criticism for racist and obscene content. david allan coe david allen coe david allan coe death david allan coe cause of death did david allen coe die david alan coe did david allan coe die how did david allen coe die david allan coe net worth david allan coe racist how did david allan coe die is david allan coe still alive david allen cow kimberly hastings did david allan coe pass away david allen coe death david allan coe died david allan coe dead david allen coe dead