LEGEND LOST
Mickey Gilley dead at 86: Country music singer passes away just DAYS after he canceled his tour amid ‘health issues’
COUNTRY music legend Mickey Gilley has died at the age of 86.
The Mayor of Pasadena, Texas, Jeff Wagner, confirmed the sad news.
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Mickey was 86 years old when he died, according to .
His death comes days after he canceled several tour dates, citing health issues and low energy levels as the cause.
On his personal Facebook, the singer of the cancelation: "I am so sorry to have cancelled the May dates at the theatre in Branson. The last couple of weeks, my energy level and some health issues kept me from being 100% at my shows.
"So, I've been seeking doctors to get me back on track. I certainly don't like to cancel at the last minute, but unfortunately I had to make the late decision this weekend. I've cancelled all Branson shows through May to give anyone planning on seeing our shows the information so your plans could be adjusted accordingly."
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He added: "I hope to be reenergized, healthy and back in full swing to see you at our shows soon!"
The Pasadena Mayor said in a : "Pasadena has lost a true legend.
"Mickey Gilley passed away today, surrounded by his loved ones."
He continued: "It was my great honor to know this man most of my life.
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"Mickey was a true musical talent who charted 42 singles in the Top 40 Country Charts over a span of two decades.
"His talent and larger than life personality helped ignite a new interest in country music as he introduced the world to Pasadena through his dance hall and 'Urban Cowboy' in 1980.
"We were so honored to have Mickey perform at out State of the City in February 2020."
The mayor concluded: "Our prayers for comfort and peace are with Mickey's family, his loved ones and his fans."
MICKEY'S LEGACY
Mickey's career peaked in the 1980s, spanning seven decades.
During his career, he recorded musical hits such as Room Full of Roses and Stand By Me.
He also had a cameo in Urban Cowboy, a movie that starred John Travolta and Debra Winger.
The film was set in Mickey's honky-tonk nightclub Gilley's.
Mickey, who hailed from Ferriday, Louisiana, went on to appear in Murder She Wrote, The Fall Guy, Fantasy Island, and Dukes of Hazzard.
Throughout his long career, he has won numerous awards including six ACM awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and a spot in the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame.
Mickey started playing the piano young, and he later learned the rockabilly style of music thank to his cousin Jerry Lee Lewis – another well-known musician.
IN MEMORIUM
Following the news of Mickey's death, Twitter was filled with reactions to the news.
Michael Berry wrote on Twitter: "Our dear friend Mickey Gilley has passed. So much of Houston/Pasadena's history, country music, Urban Cowboy, workin man's blues & a wonderful time in my life encapsulated in that man."
Rhonda Vincent said: "So sad to hear of the passing of Country Music Legend Mickey Gilley. Our paths crossed a few times being in Branson; and Gene Watson & I did his TV show.
"Fortunate to hang out backstage w/ Johnny Lee & Mickey Gilley. Great stories and great memories. May he Rest In Peace."
A fan tweeted: "Sad to hear that country music star and founder of the world's biggest honkytonk Gilley's, Mickey Gilley has passed away at age 86. Sending prayers to his family, friends and fans."
A second country music fan added: "Saddened by the news of Legendary Mickey Gilley's passing. He was 86 years young."
A cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
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Mickey leaves behind a wife, Vivian Gilley, whom he married in 1962.
He also had four children: Kathy, Michael, Keith, and Gregory.
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