Outlaw country singer David Allan Coe, a prominent figure in American country music who helped shape the outlaw country movement, has died at the age of 86.
He was widely known for writing the working-class anthem “Take This Job and Shove It” and for hit songs such as “You Never Even Called Me By My Name,” “The Ride,” and “Longhaired Redneck.”
His death was confirmed to Rolling Stone by his wife, Kimberly Hastings Coe, on Wednesday. The cause of death was not made public.
In a heartfelt tribute, his wife reflected on their long relationship, writing, “My husband, my friend, my confidant and my life for many years. I’ll never forget him, and I don’t want anyone else to ever forget him either,” she wrote to the publication.
A separate statement from a representative, shared with People, said he died around 5 pm on Wednesday.
His wife also praised his artistry, describing him as the “best singer, songwriter, and performer of our time”.
Born in Akron, Ohio, Coe’s early life included time spent in reform schools and a prison sentence in Ohio from 1963 to 1967 for possession of burglary tools.
After his release, he began performing in blues before eventually transitioning into country music.
He rose to prominence in the 1970s as part of the outlaw country movement, becoming known for his raw storytelling and rebellious style within the genre.
Over his decades-long career, he left a lasting mark on country music with a catalog of influential songs that continue to resonate with fans of the genre.
