Country Music Legend Joe Diffie Has Died At The Age Of 61 From Complications Of Coronavirus

Mar 30, 2020 by apost team

Joe Diffie, the legendary country music singer known for his 90s hits has passed away from the coronavirus at the age of 61 according to a statement published on Sunday.

The statement was posted on his official Instagram simply confirming his death from complications of coronavirus and asking for his family's privacy at this time.

The star had previously come out just two days prior saying he was receiving treatment for coronavirus. Friday's statement went on to remind his fans and the public to stay vigilant during this pandemic.

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The Oklahoma native was born in 1958 and got his start in Nashville as a demo singer. He eventually made his own music and signed with a record company before his career skyrocketed.

According to Variety, Diffie was part of the Grand Ole Opry for 25 years and was a staple on the country scene in the 90s. The news outlet mentions his five number one hits, "Home," "If the Devil Danced (In Empty Pockets)," "Third Rock From the Sun," "Pickup Man," and "Bigger Than the Beatles." Two of the GRAMMY-winning star's albums went platinum while an additional two albums were certified gold.

Diffie's run in the 90s had left an indelible mark on country music and influenced how it sounds today. Fans and fellow musicians have come out on social media to express their gratitude for his contribution.

Singer Granger Smith expressed on Twitter, "Here’s to you Pickup Man. You inspired an entire generation of country singers and accepted us all with kindness, gratitude and buckets of talent."

John Michael Montgomery also posted a tribute to his friend with a photo saying, "This is so heartbreaking, I just don’t even know what to say. GOD BLESS his family and loved ones. A sad, sad day for country music. Rest In Peace."

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Rest in peace to Jim Diffie, taken at the age of 61. Are you a country music fan? You can explore Diffie's hit "Prop Me Up Beside the Jukebox (If I Die)" along with his fans today. Tell others about the sad news.