- John Wesley Ryles died in the early hours of November 2, according to reports
- He became a professional singer in his youth and released numerous singles
- More, Country singer Todd Snider, 59, forced to cancel concertsÂ
Country music star John Wesley Ryles has died aged 74.
The late solo artist died in the early hours of November 2, according to reports made by Heart of Texas Records.
Ryles’s cause of death is not yet known.Â
Born in Bastrop, Louisiana, Ryles became a professional singer in childhood, singing gospel music on radio programs in the late 1950s and early 1960s with the Ryles Family Singers.
He signed to Columbia Records in 1967 and released his debut single, Kay, when he was just 17.
Over the course of his career, Ryles had one top 10 hit with his 1977 track, Once in a Lifetime Thing.
His other best-known songs include I’ve Just Been Wasting My Time, Fool, Shine on Me (The Sun Still Shines When It Rains), Liberated Woman, and Louisiana Rain.
Ryles released his last single, Nobody Knows, in 1988.
Country music star John Wesley Ryles has died aged 74
The late artist was born in Bastrop, Louisiana and became a professional singer in childhood
Ryles’ nephew paid tribute to him in an emotional statement shared on Facebook.
He said: ‘He was married to my Aunt Joni, and we all loved him like blood. He was an amazing singer, and artist, and an even more amazing man.
‘He had several hits as a solo artist, and was an A-team harmony singer in Nashville for decades.’
He added: ‘He was a kind, talented, and loving man, and he will be missed by all of us.’
Country music star Mark Wills also offered his condolences in a tribute posted on Instagram.
Alongside a photo of the late musician, he said: ‘We lost a GIANT in the music industry today.
‘John Wesley Ryles sang more harmonies on records, that to the listener, sounded like the artist themselves!
‘He could blend with ANYBODY! John sang on my first four records and always had a flawless blend with the lead vocal. It was perfect.
Ryles performing on stage circa 1970Â
Ryles’ nephew paid tribute to him in an emotional statement shared on Facebook
‘My condolences to Joni and his entire family! Please lift them up in prayer.’
Another social media user commented: ‘So sad. I still listen to his songs Kay and Fool.
‘He was never given the recognition he deserved in my opinion. His harmonies are heard by many never knowing what a Star he’s always been.’
‘Oh no,’ another wrote on Facebook. ‘I am so shocked and so saddened to hear this. John was such a great singer and a great guy. This breaks my heart.’Â
Ryles is survived by his wife, Joni Lee Ryles, daughter of Country Music Hall of Fame member Conway Twitty.
