George Jones, 81, a country music megastar, died today in Nashville. He had been hospitalized since April 18 for a fever and irregular blood pressure. The cause of death was not released.
Jones was in the middle of his final tour when he fell ill.
He defined star-power in country music by charting more country hits than any other artist. “He Stopped Loving Her Today” is arguably his biggest hit among around 150. Jones’ first number one hit was “White Lightning” in 1959.
Jones’ public persona was as melodramatic as his music – he was married four times once to Tammy Wynette – and made numerous headlines for drinking, tempestuous romances and violent rages.
He nearly died in a car wreck in 1999, recovered and maintained his career until his death.
Jones is survived by four children and his fourth wife of 30 years, Nancy.