Country music star Jim McBride has died aged 78.
The popular songwriter, best known for writing the hits Chattahoochee and Chasing that Neon Rainbow for Alan Jackson, passed on January 6.
McBride’s songs were recorded by country music legends including Johnny Cash, George Jones and Reba McEntire.
He was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2017 and the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in 1995, and served as president of Nashville Songwriters Association International.Â
Tributes have been pouring in for McBride following the news, which was first reported by WAFF.Â
‘Jim was a beloved Alabamian, songwriter, friend, mentor, and so much more,’ the Alabama Music Hall of Fame said in a statement.
Singer songwriter Jerry Salley said: ‘Jim McBride wasn’t just a close friend, he was a true, lifelong brother to me.
‘My best friend. We talked or texted every few days right up until the end.’
Country music star Jim McBride has died aged 78Â Â
In a tribute shared on Facebook, he added: ‘You were a great songwriter. You were a great man. And you were an even greater friend.’
McBride was born in Huntsville, Alabama and pursued a career in music at an early age.
According to reports, he started bringing his songs to Nashville in the early 1970s.
More to follow.Â
