Musical Legend Jimmy Capps Passes Away

By Hallels News Jun 03, 2020 08:03 AM EDT

Musicians Hall of Fame member and Grand Ole Opry veteran Jimmy Capps has passed away at age 81 due to health complications. After getting his start with The Louvin Brothers, Jimmy went on to become one of the most sought after session players in Nashville.

Some of the incredible recordings you can hear Capps on are The Oak Ridge Boys' "Elvira," "Sail Away," Tammy Wynette's "Stand By Your Man," Barbara Mandrell's "Sleeping Single In A Double Bed," "I was Country When Country Wasn't Cool," George Jones' "He Stopped Loving Her Today," Ronnie Milsap's "Smokey Mountain Rain," and "Legend In My Time," as well as other artists such as Janie Fricke, Lacy J. Dalton, Andy Williams, Ray Charles, Mac Davis, Moe Bandy, Joe Stampley, Johnny Paycheck, John Conlee and countless more.

As a staff member of the Grand Ole Opry since 1967, Capps has remained a solid foundation in Music City and can be seen on Country's Family Reunion and as "Sheriff" Jimmy Capps on Larry's Country Diner. Jimmy was not only a musical prodigy, but a friend to many in the music and entertainment industry.

Fellow artists mourn the loss of their friend and share fond memories that have left them forever inspired by the timeless, Jimmy Capps.

"I'm deeply saddened by the news of the passing of my dear friend, Jimmy Capps. Jimmy was maybe the kindest and most considerate person I knew in the music business. A pro's pro, he played an important role in many of my recordings and every Opry performance we ever played together. Rozene and I send our sympathy and heartfelt prayers to Michele and all of Jimmy's family." - Charley Pride

"The NEWS this morning about the passing of our dear friend Jimmy Capps has been devastating. In a time of darkness Jimmy was always a light. Like everyone else in Nashville Jimmy was a part of our music and our career and our lives!!! This will take a while to process... the Oak Ridge Boys will sure miss The Man In Back ... Until the DAY" - Joe Bonsall / Oak Ridge Boys

"I have been singing professionally since I graduated from the university over 55 years ago. Jimmy Capps has been a part of my career from the beginning with The Oak Ridge Boys, starting with our gospel days and all the way through to some of our biggest hits. When you hear the guitar intro to "You're The One In A Million," that is Jimmy Capps playing. Recently, I went to the Musicians Hall of Fame and saw a display honoring Jimmy Capps. In that display was the guitar that Jimmy played on "Elvira." My wife, Norah Lee, has sung on the Grand Ole Opry for over 40 years. For most of those years, especially when the Opry was at the Ryman, Norah Lee has ridden with Jimmy and Michelle Capps to work. This is another gut punch for me personally, losing one of my very best friends. I ask that you remember Michelle and Jimmy's sons in your prayers. Today, there is a hole in the music industry, but Jimmy Capps' contributions will stand the test of time. Rest in peace, Jimmy, in the arms of Jesus." - Duane Allen / The Oak Ridge Boys

"When I first came to Nashville Jimmy Capps was already a fixture as one of the great guitar players. I worked with Jimmy many times and I got to know him and his wonderful wife Michele even better these last several years at the Opry. Jimmy was always ready with a smile, a kind word and a great guitar lick. I can't imagine the Opry without Jimmy Capps. These crazy times are much sadder this morning." - Crystal Gayle

"I have been blessed to work with Jimmy down through the years. He was a universally loved, Godly man, a double-super cool Nashville cat and you couldn't ask for a better friend. Sheila and I pray for Michelle and the rest of his family at this time. Rest in peace, pal." - T. Graham Brown

"Sending our love and prayers to Michele Capps. Just heard of the passing of Nashville musician Jimmy Capps. His musicianship was heard at the Grand Ole Opry, Country's Family Reunion, and as The Sheriff on Larry's Country Diner. I've sailed many music cruises with Jimmy, and I know he was so honored to be inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame. He was always humble and kind, and will be missed by many. Rest In Sweet Peace Jimmy Capps." - Rhonda Vincent