Gary Stewart, a country music singer and songwriter, committed suicide on Dec. 16. Authorities say the cause of death was an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the neck. He was 58.
Stewart spent his teens playing rock and country in Florida bars. He was discovered by Mel Tillis, who encouraged the young guitarist with the vibrato-laden tenor voice to head to Nashville.
Stewart followed this advice and teamed up with Bill Eldridge to write songs like Stonewall Jackson’s 1965 hit, “Poor Red Georgia Dirt.” He also recorded records for the Cory and Kapp labels before signing on with RCA.
Stewart’s fusion of honky-tonk and southern rock turned the song, “Drinkin’ Thing” into a top 10 hit. He released “She’s Actin’ Single (I’m Drinkin’ Doubles)” in 1975, which reached No. 1 on the Billboard chart. In the 1980s, however, Stewart faded from view, perceived as being too country for rock audiences and too rock for country audiences.
For the past decade, he performed in venues near his Ft. Pierce, Fla., home. His final album, “Live at Billy Bob’s Texas,” was released this year.
I have seen Gary many of times here in Texas, Starting about 18 years ago, He signed my boots at Southern Juction in Rockwall, Tx. I will never get rid of them, His music was the greatest. He will be missed here in Texas.
God bless his Family, He was a great singer!
Cindy Higgenbottom
Mesquite, Texas
I loved Gary’s music ever since I saw him here in the UK with Charley Pride.
A very talented man who deserved to have had more success than he actually acheived,
Stuart Challis
Chelmsford,
United Kingdom
Gary Stewart was the greatest singer of all time, he never received the appreciation he deserved,he was here in South Dakota over the summer 2003. he left alot of fans here in SD
GARY STEWART HAD A STRING OF HITS THAT DIDN’T DIE OUT FOR DECADES..HIS STAYING POWER WAS AMAZING..WITHOUT THE TRIALS HIS LIFE GAVE HIM I THINK SOME OF THE BIG GUYS WOULD HAVE A HARD TIME HOLDING A CANDLE TO HIM….HE WILL BE MISSED BY SEVERAL GENERATIONS OF MY FAMILY.
HERE IN TEXAS WE SUPPORTED HIM :O(
Though I never saw him, Gary Stewart was always my favorite honky tonk artist. What classics he produced. It’s so sad to hear of his world falling down around him the last months. My prayers go out. He will be remembered far and wide!
Craig Clower
Terrell, Texas
GARY STEWART WROTE FROM HIS HEART AND LIFE.HE WILL BE MISSED GREATLY.
In ’77 I began a 9-yr period of teaching in Navajoland. Gary was huge there, and the students happened to think I looked like him (It helped). ASAP I bought “Out of Hand” and those that followed. His music was always in the CD as I travelled the rez. “Blackslider’s Wine” and “Sweet Tater and Cisco” were 2 favorites. Saw him once in Shiprock. Good memories.
I have seen Gary Stewart about 20-30 times and really beleive that he was and is the greatest Texas singer ever. He is and was Mr. honky tonk bar hoppin drinking in your beer singer. I was very dissappointed that there was not more radio play of his death and his music contributions. May he rest in peace, we will all miss you!
This guy was a great contributer to Country music as a kid raised on Rock in Roll Gary presented a side of Country music I never new exsisted. His music is a popular today as ever and it will indure as a statement to his legacy.
Terry Scarberry
Midland,TX.
I grew up listening to gary’s music in the 70’s.He was the greatest singer of his time.
He is still the greatest of all the honky tonkers!!!
Gary stewart was probably the greatest bar room draw in Texas, packing clubs with many, many fans. We had the priveledge of opening a show for Gary at the Silver River Club in Proctor, Texas,
Drawing one on the greatest crowds Borderline has played for. As a country dance band, I can say Gary stewart ranks as the most requested artist in the Honky Tonk venue, next is George Strait.
Bryan Daniel
“borderline”
Stephenville, Texas
I wore out so much vinyl playing Gary’s records…had the opportunity to see him many times…one of the most memorable was at The Palomino in North Hollywood when Waylon got up onstage for a guest shot…anyone who thinks the likes of Faith Hill and Rascal Flatts represent country music never saw Gary Stewart…
I will always remember and cherish the time Gary Stewart brought his Honky Tonk music to our local hangout “The Getaway” on 12/31/94. Our New Year’s Eve party was to hosted by a local country/rock/blues band headed up by Jon Williamson, bass player. He asked if we would mind if Gary Stewart joined us that evening with a few of his country favorites. Of course, we did not mind. We were all avid fans of Gary Stewart music and played “Drinkin’ Thing” and “She’s Acting Single” as anthems on our our jukebox. Gary was just like one of the gang that evening and played with the band for the joy of playing to loving fans. We brought in the New Year of 1995 with all his songs in our heart.
Gary Stewart’s music will live forever.
We love you Gary, rest in peace. thjeamucieikartnbu
gary was the undisputed king of “honk” heres one to ya gary! rip. i must add i think its a unforgiving shame that networks like cmt and other so called country nets and stations did not give a second thought to his passing much less a tribute to the one all us of that ever partied through the night or drank off a heartbreak, woreout a G.S. album, or two, the same goes for farron young, mel street, and many more forgotten honky tonk heros. we should show our support for those who poured their heart and souls out for us in their music by our lack of support and mailed and e-mailed expressions of our discust for thier dishonor for those guys who made what they do possibble, “damn money hungry fat cats”! take a whiskey trip!
gary mc tishomingo,ok
I grew up listening to Gary.I went to see him fairly often in the houston area.I don’t think country music ever paid him the respect he deserved.He was also a hell of a nice old boy.I’ll remember him in my prayers.May God rest his soul. Houston,Texas
He will be missed. I first saw Gary in Des Moines, Iowa when his first album was released. Then off and on in various dance halls in Texas. And finally, this past fall in Helotes, Texas. Through all of his personal trials, his music has endured brilliantly. The voice was unique, as was his songwriting. There was a fragile quality in it all that touched everyone who listened. It came from the heart. He was a gracious man. He was always elated to receive the photos I had occasionally given him of his performances. Luckily we have his music for all time and especially his performance captured on that last tour. Rest in peace Gary.
I never saw Gary in concert but always wanted to. I didn’t even learn of his death until just a few days ago. (I drive a truck and miss a lot of news). I loved his music and his unique voice though. I knew he had problems with alcohol and was probabaly a strong contributing factor in his dimise. I truly hate to hear that he’s gone. He was such a great talent.
Gary Stewart has been very popular on the Navajo Reservation and he still is today. He has had an extreme influence on his fans, although not much by the influential radio and television stations. He put “art” in artist as a musician. Is there any other singer who can sing the way he did? Very unique. I unfortunately did not hear of his dramatic episode until today (from a friend). How sad. Best wishes to his family….he will be deeply missed by his fans.
Cheryl – – Arizona.
Truly one of the best “Country & Western” singers of all time.
Danny–Texas
I have been a fan of Gary since 1972. I first heard his songs on late nights when my x was out with the boys. He will always be remembered as one of the best country music hony tonk singers ever to bless this ole gal with hearing his music.
He is loved by all who have ever heard him sing.
i have been a fan of gary stewarts since i was just a little girl…i have just lost count of how many of his concerts that i went to…i followed him around alot because i enjoyed his music so much…i have everyone of his cds..he will definately be missed in this house…my 3 year old daughter really likes his music as well….my prayers are with his family at this time in their lives….i am a fan please email me.
he will truly be missed in west texas !!!!! he was one of the greats , i will miss all we lost in the last two or three years.
be royston
seminole texas usa
Our sympathy to Gary Stewart’s family and fans. Gary Stewart have been one of the greatest writer/singer that have visited the Navajo Nation numerous times. We still hear Gary Stewart on the Navajo Nation among a few other finest artists, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, Johnny Horton, Merle Haggard, George Jones. These fine gentlemen have given their heart and music to our people from the early 60’s and they are still TOPS. Their music may grow old with us, but the music will live on.
We will miss you you from all the cowboys in collinsville oklahoma!
GARY STEWART WAS ONE OF THE GREATEST SINGERS EVER.HE HAD A POWERFUL VOICE AND SUNG FROM THE HEART.WAS VERY SORRY TO HEAR OF HIS LEAVING US.OUR SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO HIS FAMILY..WE WILL NEVER FORGET THE TIMES WE SAW HIM..HE WAS A LOT OF FUN TO BE AROUND AND HE LOVED HIS FANS..I HAVE PICTURES OF ME WITH HIS HAT ON AND ALSO ON STAGE WITH HIM…AND A SHIRT THAT HE AUTOGRAPHED FOR ME..HE WILL BE VERY MISSED..OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY…FRANCES……TEXAS
GARY STEWART WILL ALWAY’S BE MY FAVORITE HONKY TONK SINGER. “MAN”, COULD PUT A COLD ONE IN YOUR HAND OR WHAT. I WILL MISS HIM, AND THOSE MEMORY’S OF ME SLIDING ACROSS THE DANCE FLOOR TO THOSE WONDERFUL SONG’S.
Gary Stewart is still one of the most requested artist on the Navajo Nation radio station KTNN AM660, a 50,000 watts station reaching most of the weatern United States. He will be missed. Rest in peace Gary. Window Rock, Arizona.
i first met gary in the late 70’s… he is first cousin to my half sister. his uncle henry was her father,we went and listened to him at marlowes in pikeville and at wise virginia, he was and always will be the greatest honky tonk singer of all times, gary was a very talented and special person he came back and visited us so many times when he was in the area at my sisters restaurant. he loved going over to ‘payne gap and visiting the mountains, may god bless him and his family. ”the niece family”
january 3rd and i first heard or rather read of the passing of gary stewart . Never reakized how much his music meant to me . grew up with it in the mid 70’s /cactus and a rose / shady streets / ah never ever got tired of listening to mr. gary stewart . don … saskatoon saskatchewan canada
It’s all over now – Gary’s gone and there’s noone, repeat NOONE, who will even come close to telling the truth about pain and heartache. “An Empty Glass” took me through losses of a lifetime. Not a word did I hear of this loss – just as would be expected of so-called Nashville, CMT, GAG, and whatever else;holding-out as bastions of “real” music. The “real” ones never seem to be quite good enough for those idiots. But Gary will never be forgotten, here in Texas he’s the greatest – and I for one will make sure my grandkids and beyond will know all about his music. My sympathy to daughter and grandchild.
I still don’t want to believe it. I love “Quits”. I remember singing out loud along with Gary to many of his classics but would silently listen as he sang others. I have sent him hundreds of “whiskey shots” up to the stage when we were all a lot younger and honky tonkin down here in Texas. That will be one artist I will always keep in my trucks CD player, forever. I always felt he was a guy who would understand the many difficult situations I manage to get myself in to. Now I have no one. A true friend is who I lost.
In our opinion, Gary Stewart was one of the most underrated and underappreciated TREASURES of country music. From what we understand, his music was indicative of his lifestyle. He sang of the pleasures and vices one may indulge in, if only to conceal his heartaches and personal battles.His lyrics expressed many times the solace found in those vices.We found solace in his music. It’s a shame that the major country music stations and networks have failed to give Gary his due. As a result, there are a lot of folks who will never know what they missed. We were lucky enough to stumble across Gary playing in San Antonio at a bar called Midnight Rodeo on Labor day weekend of 2001. We always wanted to head back down to Texas especially to see Gary play again, since up here in NC folks don’t have a clue about REAL honky-tonk music and good times. We’re sure glad Gary did. Two ol’ boys from NC, Marc Shope and Jeff Parker
We seen Gary at the Oglala Nations here on the
Pine Ridge Reservation. He was always a awesome
and talented singer. The kind we grew up on and
our children would’ve grew up with also. His
concert was the best, one I’ll never forget.His
songs will forever be played on the Pine Ridge
Reservation. You will be missed Gary. Thanks for
the great concert and memories of that night.
I’ve got Gary’s signature on a pair of my old boots and will always keep them. He’s been one of, if not my favorite country singer since I was 23. I used to see him whenever possible when he’d play locally with the Toman Brothers in San Antonio and surrounding areas. He had a very unique voice and was a nice guy when you could get close- it was always packed when he played. I was sad that I just heard of his death January 5- He clearly didn’t get the respect he deserved upon his death. How tragic for him and he will be greatly missed by many-GWG Gary!
Gary Stewart put a lot of heart in his music. I don’t think he got the recognition he deserved. I enjoyed the back-up musicians. I enjoyed all his songs. I guess, “Brand New Whiskey” was my favorite. It’s hard to choose. God must have needed a great piano player that day. He was one of the best.
My husband and I loved Gary Stewart. We have all his stuff and still listen to them all the time. I wouldn’t know what to do with all the memories over the last 25 years if we didn’t have his music to go with it. It’s a sad, sad, day to hear of his death. He sure got the short end of the stick.
I was fortunate to meet and come to know Gary and his wife back in the early 80’s. I know his great honky-tonk style will be missed by all fans who stayed true to him through the years. He was a tortured soul indeed… but imagine him now, walking those streets of heaven “in shiny shoes”.
JO ELLEN HILL MCCUAN – SUNDANCE, WY
A legend is gone. He’s touched so many people with his lyrics and unmatched talent. From those tiny bars to big city venue’s it was always a great show. My college years are filled with memories of concerts and drinking till were silly. Gary, Thanks for those awesome concerts and staying true to yourself. You will be missed. -An Empty Glass!
Rani
Dallas, Texas
Stephenville, Texas
I was saddened to hear of the passing of one of the most ledgendary honky-tonk artists to ever perform. The news came to me 21 days after the tragedy. A local radio station was paying tribute to the king of “Honk” by playing all his best. It seems to me that the death of a man with so much talent and popularity would get more attention than it did. But then again the great ones never get the attention and respect that they deserve. Gary Stewart will be greatly missed by everyone in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky. Here’s to ya Gary. We’re takin’ another Whiskey Trip.
Here’s to you Gary. I’m toasting you on a Whiskey Trip with an Empty Glass…. and an empty heart. I will forever be grateful to you for such inspiration and such truth in your music as well as your life. Hope you will look down and know how much you were and are respected now. Sorry it took this tragedy for that to happen. I will miss you ………… LESLIE
Even tho’ I didn’t frequent country bars I always loved Gary Stewart and was a big fan. My biggest regret was that I never took the time to drive 20-40 miles to see him in person. I thought he’d be with us forever I guess. I loved all his songs and his voice and I always get tears in my eyes when I play my very favorite, “AN EMPTY GLASS.”
I am bitter with Nashville and CMT for never giving him the recognition that he deserved. He should be in the Country Hall Of Fame. We all loved you Gary……God Bless You and Keep You.
Gary was our greatest singer here on the navajo nation and he enjoyed to visit the reservation and performed his concert where there is pack of people enjoying his music, but your music will always be remember and never forgot. God Bless and rest in peace.
Navajo Nation, Arizona
To Gary, I’ve named the brightest star over Texas after you, how can you be gone, I’ved loved you for so long. As long as I can remember your face, your smile and the sound of your voice, you will be ALIVE!
“I Love You Gary”
Gary Stewart had the most realistic lyrics anyone good have. Every song he sang was mostly about what was going on in my life. I hate to hear of the tragic news..he will always be in my heart and may his songs live on.
Kimberly Dean
Frisco, Texas
I never heard of Gary Stewart until 1993(They don’t play his music on the radio up in Wisconsin) when my buddy bought his “I’m a Texan” CD, mostly because the cover showed him on a Harley. We both immeidiately fell in love with it and quickly bought all of his older recordings.
Gary was a fantastic songwriter and singer. I was very sorry to hear of his passing. We never had any news on Gary up here, but I was always hoping he would release another CD. Can’t tell you how many times I’ve checked the CD bins hoping to find something new. It must have been so hard after his wife passed away. Hopefully he put his feelings about that into one last song to help everyone else who has had to go through the same thing. God bless his soul.
Someone in Mississippi will miss Gary also. He could sing like no one else I’ve ever heard. Those of you who did get to meet him are very lucky. Those of us who didn’t still love the siger we knew thru his music. I always said he was ahead of Nashville, looks like they will never catch up with the man he was.
Christy
Little Rock, MS.
There’s a crowd that will miss him at the Chalo Nitka Festival this March in Moore Haven, Florida. He was loved by many people in this small town.
though his music started purin out before i was around, my old man played his greatest hits album when we’d fly in our old brown dodge van when i nwas a puppy…..but even then i could smell the cig smoke and see the neon signs of the ‘tonk…now that i’m older (27), i’ve been playin in ‘those rooms’ for a few years now, and instead of kissing ‘garth n’ companies ass, it was always Gary’s music that played as the soundtrack to my proffesion….thanks, buddy, and this end don’t mean ‘the end’, just a reminder that sumday we all lose our heroes and bury our best friends….RIP
I remember my early years developing a relationship with Roy Dea…then at RCA back in the mid 70’s…we (my partner and I) hung during a session with Gary. This is a time branded in my mind forever. To this day there is no voice that will ever compare to his! Gary, Johnny, Waylon, it breaks your heart!
I was so shocked just not (January 14th) to hear the local country station mention, almost nonchalantly, that Gary Stewart had “shot himself a couple weeks ago”. Like he took his dog for a stroll. How insulting. And I wonder why I turn it (today’s “country” stations) so infrequently; their idea of country is Shania Twain! Anyway, I’m so shocked and saddened. I saw Gary Stewart opening for Charley Pride back in the mid-70s in Long Beach, CA, while visiting my brother. Fell totally in love with him and his music! Had cassettes til they fell apart; just found a greatest hits CD about 6 months ago and have been singin’ out loud with it on my crappy commute. Enjoyed it as much as all those years ago when I didn’t even know what heartache was! I don’t know about his heartaches as referenced in other tributes, but life will give them to us all. Couldn’t help but wonder if losing his wife was the main thing after all those years together. Anyway, here’s to a man of talent that was largely unrecognized and that is a darn shame. May his family find some peace in their memories of good times. Sometimes that’s all we have.
Just heard about his death yesterday, what a shock. He represented what I loved about Country music 30 yrs ago – nothing like it is today. What a damn shame. Still have his vinyl LPs & never get tired of ’em.
Gary Stewart’s death really shocked me. What a shame, he was a great musician. I am glad that I had the chance to go see him live in concert not that long ago with my husband. He was great. We were planning on seeing him again, unfortunately now we won’t have the chance to. This is very sad. What is also sad is that his death was barely mentioned, I did not once hear it broadcasted on the news. I had to dig for info on the net. It was briefly announced on our local radio station, that was about it. And before his death, we never heard much about him. It didn’t matter much that he was coming to town, or really anything about him. That is very sad. He was one of the best and I believe that he deserved so much more credit than he received. He was and will continue to be the “King of Honky Tonks” always. He was true country, unlike what the radio stations are playing today, which sounds more like pop rock to me. All of the good ones are dying off, we should appreciate them while they are here.
Although he may be looked down upon in some peoples eyes for his death he is looked up to here in Texas… I saw him for the first and only time last year it was the coolest concert! I was shocked to hear that I would not be able to hear him again this year. May he rest in peace and may his music live on for many more generations. He was a talented singer and a really cool person. I will cherish the pictures and the memories I have of him. He can now be with his wife and family in heaven where nothing will be out of hand. rest in peace gary you touch our hearts.
Your were the greatest! May your music live forever. From the Navajo Nation.
I only just learned of his passing this evening and I an just devasted.
I met and got to know Gary in the 80’s in San Antonio. He was a kind and gentle soul at times. There is not nor will there ever be a better honky tonk singer-songwriter than this man.
Nashville should be ashamed of how it treated him but those of us who knew Gary or just knew his music..understood what REAL honky tonk country rock music should be.
With an Empty Glass Down Those Shady Street and Shiny Shoes.
God bless you Gary
Growing up in FtWorth Texas, me and my friends loved Gary Stewart. When we were going to the Stockyards in the late 80s and early 90s, Gary Stewart along with George Strait was king, if you didn’t know who Gary was, then you weren’t a true country music fan. I could never understand why his music was never played on the Radio, his music was timeless and represented what country music is suppose to sound like, Dallas/FtWorth country radio stations should be ashamed of themselves for not including his music in their rotations, knowing how popular he was with the locals. As a Texan, I thought Gary was our little secret and regarded him as our own, I’m happy to see he was known and loved in other parts of the country as well.
GOT INTO OL GARY STEWART AROUND 1975 OUT IN CALIFORNIA FROM A BUDDY THAT WAS FROM BIG SPRINGS TEXAS. MAN, THAT WAS MUSIC. WAYLON JENNINGS-GARY STEWART-MERLE HAGGARD. NO BULLSHIT. JUST GOOD MUSIC. THEN I FOUND OUT OL’ GARY WAS FROM JENKIN’S, KENTUCKY. IF THERE’S ANY TRUE GARY STEWART FAN’S OUT THERE WHO WANT TO SEE WHERE HE CAME FROM. JENKIN’S KY. SOUTH OF PIKEVILLE ON HWY 119 IS WHERE TO GO. I USED TO STOP IN AT WHITAKERS MUSIC SHOP. IT’S BEEN THERE SINCE GARY WAS A LITTLE BOY LIVIN’ IN THE HOLLER ACROSS FROM THE SHOP. WELL THE OLD MAN WHO OWN’S IT WILL TELL YOU SOME STORIES. AND GARY STILL WENT BACK TO PICK AND SING EVERYONCE IN AWHILE. IT’S SAD TO THINK HE WON’T GO BACK THERE AGAIN. IT’S JUST ONE OF THOSE WOOD FLOOR, BELLY STOVE,MONKEY IN A CAGE, OLD TIME STORES. BANJO’, GUITARS, HARMONICIS. HOPE THE OLD FELLER THAT RUNS IT IS STILL KICKIN’. MAYBE HE’LL TELL YOU WHY HE DOESN’T HAVE THE MONKEY IN THE CAGE ANYMORE!!!! JENKINS, KY. LONG LIVE GARY STEWART’S HONKY-TONK MUSIC. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS BE IN THE RIGHT FRAME OF MIND. GOD BLESS.
The news of Gary Stewart’s passing was devastating. The boy could wrench more emotion out of a country song than anyone since…well, since Hank I guess. To me he was the perfect country and western singer…hopefully there’s still some unreleased stuff out there for all his fans!! Are you paying attention Bear Family…time for a box set of Gary’s music. Tallahassee
I caught the news of Gary’s death in passing on one of those CMT shows. What a tragedy! one of the best honky tonkers to ever grace this earth.Gary was one of my favs when the outlaw stuff was getting it’s start.Call it progressive country or whatever you like ,he was too far ahead of his time. His material still sounds fresh almost 30 years later. I get bored with the modern stuff for the most part in a week. Well Gary your definatly a legend with this old honky tonker since the mid 70’s. Hope you find your peace
I have just learned of Garys death today on Rick Jacksons country hall of fame. I remember as a kid hearing Gary with my daddy. That was real country music, so sad that todays country has lost its roots and the ones that are true country wont recieve air time on the radio. Gary will be dearly missed by the true country fans. j.hamilton raleigh , nc
I have posted as many tributes possible elsewhere
on this Man…seems like there’s not much left to say except that he was the most Soulful singer i ever heard. I’m 57 and I can still remember the details of where and when I first heard that incomparable VOICE leap out of the radio, and that
voice has followed me all my life. I was so happy for him that he had such a success on the honkytonk circuit in Texas. Emotion like his never
dies; all his fans will keep the faith. Was just
playing “I Got Mine” before work this morning:
Gary always rocked ya just right and his music is forever.
First I want to say how sorry I was to hear of the passing of Gary and his wife. The loss to all of you must be devastating. God Bless all of you.
My memories of Gary are but a few, but they will live in my heart forever. I started hanging around Ft. Pierce (Archies, Frankie and Johnnies) around 1974. I remember eating at a place called the Black Pearl by the bridge and next door was this building with a bar on the second floor. Well one night a few of us went in there and there was Rockfish Railroad. It was probably the best country band I had ever heard. Country music just wasn’t something I had ever really listened too. I was a rocker, you know Led Zeppelin, Hendrix, Blind Faith, Cream, but there was just something about this band that excited me. Of course being the beautiful girls we were at the time we met the band before the night was over. Gary was not playing with the band that night. I assume now he was recording somewhere. Well after the band quit for the night we were all standing around and I believe his name was Marty (who I swear told me he was Gary’s brother) ask us if we wanted to take a boat ride. Well here it is 2am in Ft. Pierce, we’re all drunk and we say, hell yea. We were up for just about anything at anytime during those years. So there we went a block from the bar to some fishing boat and out we went. I really don’t know how far we got probably just under the bridge but we had fun that night and were invited to a Bar B Q at one of the band members house the following day. We continued coming up to Ft. Pierce on weekends to hang out and hear the band and one night wound up over at Marty’s house. I fell asleep in one bedroom and my friend in the other……. We’ll about noon I woke up to hear the loudest country music I had ever heard. Louder than the bands we sat and listened too every weekend, but there was a difference this time. There was someone else playing and singing lead. I got out of bed and walked into the living room and there was Gary. I was mesmerized by him. I must have looked like a walking mummy because all I did was walk over to the couch and sit there (probably with my mouth open) for 3 hours as he played with the band. It was wonderful. Me, little Amy having this wonderful band playing in front of just me, just me not one other person there. I will remember that Sunday afternoon the rest of my life. Poor Connie though, I never did wake her up. I think she is still pissed off at me for that.
After they finished playing Gary invited me and Connie over to his home. We met his wife and partied a short time. They were just great people. Nice, kind, gentle people. God was very very good to me that day.
Ahhhhhhhhhh the 70’s in Ft. Pierce with Gary Stewart and Rockfish Railroad…..nothing else like it in the world.
I will remember Gary for putting country in my soul forever.
With Much Love and Deepest Sympathy
I was a small child in eastern kentucky when my father moved to ohio for work.There were many familes from eastern kentucky who lived and worked the factories in dayton oh.My father was the typical hillbilly he drank hard and worked hard. I would go with him on weekends to local bars where other people from home would drink and talk about home.They would always give the kids and me money to play the jukebox or pinball.My love was music i would spend it at the jukebox.My favorite singer was gary stewart.I was twelve the first time i heard his music.When i would ask who he was the answer was always thats the boy from lecther county.I never will forget the way his music made me understand my father and his friends way of life.People from our world lived fast and drank to much and died young.Garys music told of why they did this.My life has had many ups and downs but gary stewarts music was always there.I have been in some room above the street.I have taken a wiskey trip.I have seen my wife act single.I have been out of hand and called it quits more than once.When i heard of his death i did not want to believe it but i understand.This man was the greatest misunderstood country music artist to ever record music.If you can listen to his music and you cannot feel the emotion and pain,joy you deserve the music they call country today.
I will never forget and always love your music gary.
gary stewert lives on in texas,where he performed quite often.”drinkin thing” was one of the first songs i got to perform as a texas entertainer in honky tonks back many moons ago.gary milked everything he ever sang for all it was worth.he was great,very underappreciated by the biz,but a great showman,singer,talent and a man.he is missed alot in the dallas /ft worth area.rest in peace,and somebody get ahold of cmt and others,and get them off their butts and give more tributes on air…long overdue for the king of honky tonks!rest in peace gary…..
All his songs hit so close to home, the pain, the heartache, the loss. He definitely tapped your deepest emotions. When I heard “I See The Want In Your Eyes” for the first time, it wasn’t two hours till I had heard it thirty times. The magic in that song makes a grown man well up. He harnessed a sound that will never be matched, and if he were alive today, he still could never understand the effect his lyrics truly had on his listeners. If it was your time Gary, only God knows, but I know you’re with her now, and you’ll suffer no more. Your music hurt & hardened my heart bro, and I thank God for such a talented musician, destined to describe the way so many of us have felt in our lives at one time or another. There will never be another like you.
I too truly enjoyed Gary Stewarts music.I hate that I never took the opportunity to see him in concert. It is hard for me to accept that C.M.T completely left Gary Stewarts music out of their countdown of top drinking songs….Like so many times we never realize greatness around us till it is gone. May this loss be a lesson to us on how we treat each other in the future!
Sam Houston
Texas City, Texas
I was sadden to here of the passing of Gary Stewart.Gary had a voice that could always be recognized.His songs would tear at your heart, I can almost see him at the bar with an “Empty Glass”.I would always tell myself one day when he plays Tin Hall I’ll go see him but I never did. He will be missed.
David Dauzat
Splendora, Tx
I saw Gary in 5 GREAT live performances across Texas and he was nothing short of FANTASTIC. If you ever heard his electifying live music,you became a fan forever. I still play his music often and wish that he could have known just how much us Texans loved his music. It’s a shame he never got the recognition he deserved from Nashville. He will be truly missed and I will cherish the photo he made with me at the Pasadena,Texas Rodeo. Good Bye to the GREATEST HONKY TONKER ever!
WE WERE SO SADDENED TO HEAR OF GARY’S PASSING.NO,HE DEFINATELY DID NOT GET THE RECOGNITION THAT THIS MAN DESERVED.WE HAVE EVERY SONG THIS MAN HAS EVER SANG & RECORDED.WE NEVER WAS LUCKY ENOUGH TO GET TO SEE HIM IN FT.PIERCE.MY HUSBANDS PARENTS LIVE IN VERO BEACH FLORIDA,WHICH IS WHERE WE GO EVERY SUMMER.WE LIKE TO TRAVEL THE DIFFERENT COUNTIES AROUND FLORIDA AND ESPECIALLY AROUND FT.PIERCE GOING TO ESTATE SALES,GARAGE SALES AND ANY KIND OF SECOND HAND STORES LOOKING FOR RECORD ALBUMS OF THIS GREAT SINGER,GARY STEWART.WE DID STOP AT A SALE LAST SUMMER IN VERO BEACH AND ASKED THE MAN WAS THERE ANY ALBUMS OF GARY IN THAT STACK OF RECORDS AND TO MY SURPRISE THE MAN SAID NO,BUT MY BROTHER LIVES NEXT DOOR TO HIM IN FT.PIERCE AND YES GARY STILL LIVES THERE.I ONLY REGRET THAT I DIDN’T HAVE THAT NICE MAN CONTACT HIS BROTHER AND SEE IF GARY WOULD SIGN OUR ALBUM THAT WE HAD FOUND AT ANOTHER SALE IN WINTER HAVEN.I SO MUCH REGRET THAT DAY AND NOT TRYING TO GET SOMETHING SET UP.WE WILL ALWAYS BE LISTENING TO HIS MUSIC,CAUSE IT DOES TOUCH THE HEART.YOU WILL BE VERY VERY MISSED.WE LIVE IN KENTUCKY JUST 57 MILES FROM HIS HOME TOWN.WE WILL BE GOING FOR A VISIT TO THE HOME PLACE SOON,BUT NOT SOON ENOUGH. RIP GARY WE LOVE YOU!
I just learned yesterday of the passing of Gary Stewart. I feel like someone just punched me in the stomach. Gary was my favorite country singer.He could really make you feel like he was singing about your life. I have listened to country music all my life and I always loved his music. It was not until about 1998 that I found out who sang my favorite song, “Shes actin single.” Ever since that day I have been a huge Gary Stewart fan, buying all of his music that I can find. I have music from Gary Stewart on every format, vinyl, 8-track, cassestes, and cd’s. I will continue to listen to his music for the rest of my life. I had always planned to see him in person but I live in California and I could not afford to go to Texas to see him in concert. But I had always dreamed that one day I would be able to afford to travel to Texas and see him in person. That will never happen now and I have a lot less to look forward to in life. I can’t believe I just found out about his passing on the internet. It was not mentioned on any of the so called country music radio stations in my area. They and CMT and all the rest can GO TO HELL and take Shania Twain with them. Gary Stewart was and always will be “THE KING OF HONKY-TONK” He will be missed by me and all his fans. Rest in peace Gary. I am going to drink one for you tonight.
Paul Carroll
Modesto, California
My husband tonight asked me if I had heard of Gary Stewart’s death. I told him I had not seen or heard anything about it. I checked the internet tonight and learned he left this earth on December 16th. No mention in our area (by radio or TV of his death). It is ironic that this past week I have been listening to his music while I work out on the treadmill. He had a great voice and I will surely miss him. God speed
Gary.
What a legend,this man was so awesome and so real. I had the honor of seeing him time and time again at the Melody Ranch in Waco,TX. and several other places through the years. Why the secret of his death? Why no tributes, honors, etc.??? He is one of the best that will ever be no doubt. God Bless You, Gary. Play on for those in heaven…..
I was shocked to just hear of Gary Stewart’s passing.I have loved his music for the last thirty years.
I had the pleasure of seeing his show and meeting him several times over many years at places
from Dallas to Coupland.He was the best honky-tonk singer I had ever seen.
I will miss him,God bless the man,his music and his memory.
Always a pleasure to listen to Gary Stewart’s music. I would travel miles in the rain to see his shows.
The most gracious man to meet. I am just so sorry to see him go. Condolences to his family and friends.
I always thought Gary Stewart was the best honkytonker since 1975.
Thank God for the man and his music.
Bobby Heine
Austin,Texas
At any given moment in my life, there is a Gary Stewart song that sings my life. That’s what Gary did… he sang life. I just learned about his death- I think I’ll go home and have a shot and listen to ‘Cactus and a Rose’.
Still , just 2 months after gary’s death I still can’t believe he’s gone. His death is still very hard for be to believe and accept. I had just seen Gary in concert in October and he looked and sounded so good, and just eight weeks later I find out he’s gone. I’m sill in shock. my heart goes out to his daughter and the rest of his family, May God be with you.
Groing up, I never realized how influencial a 1975 honky-tonker would become in my life. The God’s honest guts that Gary Stewart put into his music, was, and forever will be, the epitome of a man’s portrayal of personal hardship. How my father’s heart felt that personal sting somewhere in each of those songs back in 75′, and twenty nine years later those same songs put proper perspective on my life as well. The sincerity in Gary’s lyrics are real, and any man, even generations separated, can relate. My father never spoke of how he felt when Gary’s songs played, but he didn’t have too. Even as a child, his songs seemed just a little more heartfelt, just a little more geniune than all the other music being played at the time. And as time went by, the truth of his songs sunk in even more. His life took on some twists and turns, obviously faith testing, and disheartening. And now, his testimonies of life and loss describe me as much, if not more than my father. We have both had the privelege of seeing Gary Stewart, nearly three decades apart, but the messages in the songs are timeless. On behalf of my father and myself, I thank you Gary, for tapping those pent-up emotions and helping us through episodes of heartache and reconstruction. Never forget there’s one of your songs playing somewhere every minute, and at that same minute, there’s someone uncovering their deepest sadness, and discovering a way to cope, and indebted to you for touching their hearts.
Scott Guyton
Greenville, Texas
speaking for myself as well as the toman brothers, gary stewart will always hold a special place in our hearts. having been with gary as his traveling band throughout the 70’s and 80’s, the three of us (randy toman, russ toman and me-ray wilburn)have so many great and wonderful stories of our time spent with gary. he was , a teacher, friend, and a great inspiration. he will always be missed and never be forgotten.
its not often that you get to be buddies with your heros. i became somewhat of a friend of Gary’s the last few years, trading rare recordings of his early shows and early records. i was amazed at what a big collector of his own memorabilia he was. My favorite moment was when i took him a cd copy of his first single for Kapp records. Gary said he didnt even own a copy of the record. Luckily i was in attendance at his last Dallas/Fort Worth show. Gary’s buddy Tommy and I had a blast. I wish more people could have seen how sweet a man he really was off stage. Nothing like the man he potrayed in his music. I will miss you old friend and “tape trading buddy”.
Brad
RAISE A LITTLE HELL UP THERE FOR ME GARY,HONKY TONK ON BROTHER,LOVE YOU,MISS YOU,R.I.P.
Gary was more than a brother to me…he was one of my best friends. I spent a lot of time with him and was in constant touch with him during the times between Mary Lou’s passing and his own. We all knew that he wanted to be with her and in our own selfish ways we tryed to keep constant tabs on him to keep him from going to her. I more than most realized how much he missed her. Seeing him gaze into a photo of the two of them and hearing him speak softly of how sensuous and beautiful she was.
I feel like I am the most privledged Gary Stewart fan alive. To have known him for nearly 40 years and to have all of the tapes of everything he recorded in Nashville from the beginning demo sessions at Cederwood, then the Bradley’s Barn demos, and all the RCA stuff including all the alternate takes. The only songs I don’t have are the ones that Roy Dea heard that made him want to record Gary for RCA. You know, the Motown stuff that everybody has heard about but no one has ever heard. I do have the contract that he signed to do that session with the date and all the particulars. Without digging through a bunch of boxes to find it, the only song I remember was “I Can’t Help Myself” (you know–Sugar Pie Honey Bunch). I would love to hear that. The contract says he was paid $30 to do the session.
Gary has a world of friends that miss him. I can tell from all the postings on this site and from all the emails that we got on the http://www.garystewartmusic.com website. The emails keep comming in and I mean from all over the earth.
As Gary lay there in the funeral home, I promised him to never let the world forget him. Please…whoever reads this, help me keep that promise. I know that you will play his music for yourselves because once you know Gary’s music it is with you for life. But, I need you to play his music in public. Let others hear it…turn it up. Turn a friend on to it. Anything, just keep it alive. Please help. We all know the power of his music and that he should be remembered in the same light that Hank Williams is.
Brother I Love and miss you and Lou.
I have allways loved Gary Stweart’s music, since I first heard him sing “I’ve got this drinking thing” Gary had the most unique voice in country music. It broke my heart to hear of his passing. I heard of Gary’s passing on a classic country music station out of Ft smith Ark. My best friend and I were priviledged to see Gary sing and play in a club called Cowboy’s in Mcalester Okla. I was just blown away with his singing and his talent with a guitar. He played one instrumental I cannot remember the name that was just awesome. I will miss you Gary, I hate that you felt you had to leave us, but I also understand. God Bless! Shame on CMT and Nashville! for thier indifference to you! .. Rita
Gary Stewart made one of his last performance on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation during the August 2003 Oglala Nation Pow-wow and Rodeo. We honored him a with Satin Star Quilts with the Oglala Sioux Tribe flag! A drum group sang a special honoring song for him during his concert. We had visitors from the Navajo nation during his concert. Pine Ridge Indian Reservation has a radio station K.I.L.I. that plays his songs day after day! The Oglala Sioux Tribe is greatful to honor such a man Gary Stewart during his life before passing into the spirit world. His memories and songs will live forever for many of our tribal members!
I was at work when the news of his death was announced on the local radio station. There were no additional details given and as it turned out-it was only mentioned that one time on the radio. I called friends and family to find out if anyone else had heard the announcement. I was very disappointed that there wasn’t a tribute done for him on the Houston radio stations. I had heard all the “interesting” stories about him either right before his concerts or right after but that was his charm! I remember being at the rodeo cook-off one year which hosts about 400 teams, music blaring from each team and in all that noise I was able to pick out which tent was playing Gary Stewart’s music – his voice was unique and distinctive. To me he died of a broken heart, I hope he now has his happiness, he will never be forgotten.
I can still bearly listen to Gary’s music — it’s so heartbreaking. I would love to find some video of him– does anyone know of any? My 34 year old daughter adores Gary’s music as much as I do, but she never saw him in concert in his early years. I know he was on Austin City Limits in the ’70’s — let’s bombard them with email to repeat the show — acl@klru.org. It is a disgrace that neither radio nor TV made a big deal of his passing. The other’s can’t hold a candle to his music. His concerts were “experiences”. I saw him in Houston in October at Mo’s and he was so delighted with the enthusiastic crowd. Towards the end of the concert he said “I’m having so much fun tonight” and acted genuinely surprised at the big turn-out.
I BEGAN LISTENING TO GARY STEWARTS MUSIC WAY BACK AND I THINK HE IS AND WILL ALWAYS BE THE KING OF HONKY TONK MUSIC AND I AM GOING TO TAKE ME A WHISKEY TRIP ON HIM.CENTRAL FLORIDA
My wife and I had the opportunity to see Gary perform at Cactus Junction in Temple, Texas a few years back. Never has there been a better Honky Tonk singer. We’ll all miss you Gary, May God Bless. I know every Friday night Jesus has you performing along side Waylon, Johnnie and Hank. It’s not gonna be the same without you.
I didn’t see Gary for about four years prior to his death, but he was one of my best friends in this world. It’s still hard to even talk about him now. I played in three different bands with him back in Ft. Pierce and all over the country. He was playing with us in a band called The Phoenix when he first signed with RCA. We had some really unforgetable moments in the old Ft. Pierce Hotel lounge. Those were some of the best shows ever anywhere. When RCA let him have his own band, he hired us (then Rockfish Railroad)to be that band. We backed him along with Weldon Myrick on steel on some sessions at Bradley’s Barn and recorded several bluegrass cuts with him on some of his albums. None of the Bradley’s Barn recordings have ever been released, and we did some pretty good stuff in there including the song Hollywood that Alabama later recorded. I have a copy of those tapes tucked away somewhere. Someone above mentioned the little upstairs bar on the river where we played when we were in town. It was The Flying Bridge, and I could write a book about those days alone. Our band broke up after a couple of years on the road, and Gary hired the Tallman Band out of Texas for a couple of years. Then The Rockfish Railroad reformed as The Train Robbery for our final page in backing Gary on the road until his car wreck that crippled him for quite a while. He was like a brother to me then, and he always will be. He and Lou will forever be a huge part of the fondest memories I could ever have. He was the most amazing dynamic live performer I ever saw in his heyday, and his music will live forever. Thanks for all those incredible memories Gary.
I’ll keep playing it loud Tommy.
The number of albums, cassette tapes and other recordables I have worn out over the last 30 years of listening to the only artist that ever told the story and of truth that touched my soul. Gary…you may be gone….BUT YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN !!!! I loved your music then and I love your music now and I will love your music of all the tomorrows.”Quits….The Same Man….and Some Room Above The Streets were the songs I loved the most….songs that even I could relate to. How so very sadden I was to hear of your death. From Duncan,Oklahoma to Odessa, Texas you have always been with me.Your music was money well spent!!! John L. Davis
I saw him play down in a small country place called “Tin Hall” around Houston, Texas. Hell of a singer/entertainer. You will find his music on almost any jukebox in these texas beer-joints stuck back in the sticks. As far as Gary not getting the recognition he deserved, all I can say is I dont remember them ever quit playing his music on the jukeboxes here in Texas.
I found out today that Gary Stewart died December 16, 2003. I had the priviledge of hearing him sing in person years ago, and bought two CD’s because I loved hearing his unique voice, which touched me emotionally then, and does even today. His music will be with us forever and I will cherish it as long as I live.
I never heard a thing about Gary’s death until the end of feb. and that really bothered me .I just watched cmt’s top 40 drinken songs and there was no mention of Gary Stewart, just a bunch of crap .He was the greatest.
I love to drinking to garys songs he was the all-time greatest.
gary stewart. it was and always will be number 1. the way he sung. is like no other. theres so so mant of his songs and albums, that i love my personal favorite i guess would be i still can’t believe that your gone. and that just how i feel about you gary. its for sure a shame cmt, and others like them and radio stations. dont play more of gary stewart and keith whitley and others like them. becuase those boys ruled the airwaves and made these great honktonk songs we so love. ya know they should be ashamed. well maybe someday they’ll grow a head and use it. thanks so much kellysherman. gary, you’ll never be forgotten……….
for gary stewart. gary you,ve been gone now since dec. so hard to believe. what a great talent and voice you had. man i know i’ll never forget you. as time rolls on, i hope they get smart and make more tributes to gary stewart. and hopeful release some unreleased songs by him. hopeful it wont be like this keithwhitley crap. gary i sure do wish i could have gone to see you in concert. but someday ill see you in heaven. and i hope i’ll have front row. thanks so much gary for giveing us so much. your fan forever. don smith.
Gary Stewart was the altime best at his song writtings
I learned of Gary’s death while serving as an international police officer in Kosovo. It was as if a member of my own family had died. I still feel the loss. As a teenager,I remember Gary’s heartfelt music filling the hours and airwaves on stations such as KSCS and WBAP in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas. I was fortunate enough to have seen him in concert and to be photographed with him in 1978 at Deb’s Danceland in Grand Prairie. Just today, one of my friends returned from leave back to our duty station in Kosovo. He brought with him Gary’s “Live at Billybobs” CD. I put it in the player and I was twenty years old again for a short while. Here’s to you, Gary stewart. God bless you and your family
I am just learning of Gary’s death and I am so upset to hear this horrible news. I have listened to his wonderful songs for so many years. I have even picked out my own funeral song.” Empty Glass”. I have been a single mother for over 20 years, worked everyday and drank everyday to his music. Every word in that song is me. I will remember his music always and keep the memories of all his concerts in my heart. His music will be with me til the end. “Miss Pat”
San Antonio, Texas
Gary,
Here’s to you man. Have a last drink, and by all means a “Last Cigarette”.
RIP My Friend
May God bless everyone who has posted a message about him. He was the real deal. No BS just serious honky tonk.
I wrote a book titled: The Top 151 Drinking Songs; released a few weeks before Christmas. It’s a compilation of the all time best drinking in all genres. She’s Actin’ Single, I’m Drinkin’ Doubles is #36. The complete list is availabe at: craphousepress.com … Rich from PA
Sorry to hear about the loss of such a great entertainer. I used to live around Dallas back in the mid 70s and I heard him plenty of times at the Long Horn Ballroom. I also heard him do a really great show at Whiskey River around that time. He had a really hot band backing him up from Florida whenever I saw him. I think it must have been the Rockfish Railroad mentioned by one of the guys above. They put on a pretty wild show for back in those days. Gary was pickin the hell out of that guitar back then. Those guys beat anything I’ve ever seen since. It’s no wonder they called him the King of The Honky Tonks. He sure was. Rest in peace Gary.
I just learned of his death today while browsing the net for his lyrics. My sympathy goes out to his family and friends. RIP, Gary. Gary is one of the Navajo Reservations greatest singer. KTNN AM Radio Station is a big fan of his. I heard he’s been here a couple of times in the 80’s. I was just a little girl then. I’m 23 years old now and I really love his music. “I WILL NEVER FORGET YOUR MUSIC GARY, AND THATS A PROMISE!!” I listen to his songs every day. He’s one of my best country singer and I own all his CD’s and Cassettes. I LOVE YOU, GARY!!
A new museum in Paintsville, Kentucky plans to honor Gary Stewart. He will be honored at the US 23 Country Music Highway Museum, to be completed later this year. (Other stars to be honored at the museum include Ricky Skaggs, Tom T. Hall, Loretta Lynn, Melvin Goins, Keith Whitley, Dwight Yoakam, Crystal Gayle and several others. All of them,including Gary Stewart, were born near the US 23 “Country Music Highway.”)
We represent the design team for the new museum. We need to get some items that belonged to Gary and represent his life – even before he was a star. If anyone knows where we can get some memorabilia to honor Gary’s life – photos, instruments, clothing, things from his childhood and teen years, unreleased music – PLEASE CONTACT US! Or if you read this and you know others who can help us, PLEASE ASK THEM TO CONTACT US! Thank you for your help. paytonberenson@bellsouth.net.
I am only 18 but have been enjoying the music of Gary Stewart for a few years now. I think he is the greatest country artist.I regret never getting to see him live at Billy Bob’s. But I can tell by his cd’s that Gary always poured his heart and emotions into his music.Gary never recieved the credit he deserved by the radio and many people are missing out on his music because of that.Thanks gary for expressing all those feelings we sometimes get.
I have seen Gary Stewart on several occasions. I distinctly remember his performance at Garner State Park, TX. My family and I went camping, drinking and dancing. No where else but Texas. Thank you, Gary. Texas will miss you and your true country music. My prayers go out to your loved ones left behind.
Since I grew up in Ft. Pierce, FL Gary Stewart’s music was always playing at Frankie & Johnny’s and JR’s and also on the radio. He is, by far, the greatest honky tonk singer of all time. Country music has lost a great singer and songwriter. When I moved to Las Vegas I didn’t think anyone knew who he was, but they sure do at Dylan’s and his music is played there every night. It sure reminds me of home when I go there. God Bless you Gary for all the great songs. You will definitely be missed by everyone.
Denise
Gary Stewart – one of the greats, good bye! I fortunately got to see him play once!
i just learned today of his passing while searching for some tour dates i cant believe i didnt here nothing on radio tv or somewhere hell i drive a truck for a living and listen to country radio always and didnt hear a damn thing about one of the greatest poets of country music ever he will be sadly missed but his music will always play in my truck home and heart REST IN PEACE GARY clifton in OK
I just learned of his passing today while I was looking on the internet. I am from Texas, but live in California now, but I love his music. That is really sad to hear cause I was supposed to see him last Dec. (2003), but circumstances came up and I couldn’t. I never got to see him. No radios or news said anything about him dying. That pisses me off. But again, this is really sad to hear. His music will live on, no matter what.
I first saw Gary Stewart when I was 17 years old as I hid my way into a bar to hear him sing. His music was great and I will always remember him. I didn’t know that he died on December 16, 2003 maybe because that was the day my daughter was born….otherwise I would have known. I was just listening to his music and heard he had passed. Of course, his music will live on. Natives of the Navajo Reservation
What a shame. I heard about it but thought it was a urban legend. Sadly it is not. Over the years I saw Gary at least 20 times. First time in 1982 in Spring Texas. I have always had his records, then Tapes and now CDs in my posession. I memorized his songs like they were my own. Danced off many a pair of Justin Ropers to his songs. I will never forget you and how your pain touched my Heart…
Rick
gary stewart was and still is one of the greats.i never new of him till my father came home from prison.after hearing his music i understood alot of the whiskey trips i had taken yet did not know why. i was sadden to hear that he had left this world without ever paying true respect by seeing him live. i still would like to see him. listing to rock music myself it still does not touch the emotion that his music reminds me that i have. god bless you and keep you next him gary
i was shocked to hear the sad news of garys passing.my brothers and sister grew up in kentucky.and gary stewart was always playing on the stero,,,,still today.i played the very beutiful song”are we dreamin the same dream”on my wedding day.gary will be missed…
Sad to hear about Gary. He made my year’s growing up listening to Country Music very special. You left alot of fans and great memories Gary. Adios mi amigo, -tim
losing gary is like losing a best friend. i have listened to his music for about 25 years and met the man too, but he was a hillbilly too. the greatest of them all. his music came from the heart and im sorry it came to QUITS, but i understand and hope you and yours are walking those shady streets in shiny shoes.
ONE OF THE GREATEST EVER. SNUCK INTO GILLEYS IN PASADENA TEXAS IN 1977 WITH MY FAKE ID AND SAW HIM AND GENE WATSON. THAT CONCERT STILL BRINGS BACK MEMORIES TO THIS DAY. AN ICON HAS FALLEN
the best of the best…..Gary Stewart and Jerry Lee Lewis……nuff said.
tommy… please respond.
I Saw Gary Stewart at his cd it begins in July 27, My boyfriend, Ward and I fall in love when Gary dies when I was sleep with him.
That I know his sons and daughter left when Gary dies on December 16. I love you, Gary.
Thank you for Mary Lou and Joey who died
and Thank you for Shannon and Mark Joseph.
Thanks,
Destiny and Ward Burton
Gary Sewart was my favorite and always will be. He had a very unique voice that really was set aside from the rest. I saw him several times at Sam Houston Race Park in Houston Texas over the past couple of years . He was fantastic and never missed a beat. I will miss him greatly , but I still listen to his music all the time. I like all the older songs single again , I’ve got this drinkin thing , You’re my kinda woman Im your kind of man. Gary and his Music will Live On Forever.
I was just informed that Gary was dead. A great loss. I heard him (and loved his honkrytonk style) in Ft. Pierce clubs. In the 1970s, we also shared the same chiropractor, Chet Whitfield. I continually download his songs from IShareIt.
Vero’s Bronco Billy
Gary Stewart
Dakota Alley July 28, 2004
dakalley@yahoo.com
615-506-5651
I used to drive to my girl friend
When I heard of his death it was a couple months later! but when i did hear it i was really shocked and i didnt want to believe it so i called the radio station here in austin tx and they said yes it was true! that just devistated me when I heard that! GARY WE’LL MISS YOU from all of your friends of the Andrews,and Perry family! we love you!
its a shame that CMT never played gary’s music and they call them selfs country. gary was one of the greatest. and a lot of the big wigs in nashville overlooked him.in my book he was as good or a heck of a lot better than most on radio or CMT.his fans will miss him a long time.i always wanted to see him on CMT….CMT should be ashamed……
Gary Stewart’s voice and music touched my life at a very young age. I seen him perform in Texas throughout the years, always waiting for the next show. It is very sad that he is no longer with us and he will be greatly missed. His music will live on through generations to come as there is no one else out there anywhere like “Gary Stewart!”
Shelly D. Lawson
Holland,Texas
Working with the miltary in Iraq and just got done talking with my wife back in Minnesota and asked her to send me some of my Gary Stewart tapes. I left the phone and went to the computer to check up on old Gary and was saddened to learn of his death. I tipped many quarts of Canadian Mist to Gary’s music and am glad I gave that stuff up 14 years ago. I never did get over my addiction to his bluesy music though. I saw him in South Dakota some years back. Among the best live shows I have ever seen. I still wear his t-shirt from that event for special occassions. Outside of a great little write up in Easyriders I never really saw much written about him. He was certianly a far better talent than the CM industry gave him credit for. Ride easy up there my friend!
Gary L. Krueger
Springfield, MN
I had the honor of seeing Gary perform twice in Texas. The first time was during a severe storm that caused him to be late, but you can bet not one single fan left, an hour and a half later he
showed up and put on one HELL of a show. I will never forget the impact his music has had on my life, I still love to ride the back roads with a cold beer and Gary cranked up loud! Gary all your Arkansas fans LOVE and miss the HELL out of you, we will never let your Music die, THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART!!!! I LOVE YOU!!!
im 27 and i remember going to a club called the chapperal in lindale tx off interstate 20. Me and my friend lived ina trailer and we had partys every night and every weeknd we listened to rock and gary stewart he was a BMF, when bed time came we cranked it up again and passed out to the music. I love all his songs here in grand saline texas. so if any gary fans ever go through grand saline tex and wanna drink one or ten to gary stewart look up my phone number
I grew up in Southwest Arkansas and spent many a night in a bar or just riding around listening to Gary’s music. He will always be my favorite. I was shocked to say the least to hear of his death. I will miss Gary! A great Artist has left his earthly home.
Gary…I know you’ll get this mail in heaven just as I write. Thank you so much for the music, the sincerity of always wanting to know how I been doing since we last parted, inviting me to spend whatever time you had even if it was till daylight in hotel rooms or backstage in hospitality trailers drinking your Budwiser although I prefered my whiskey. Thanks for always, for whatever reasons you had, to be friends with me everytime we made contact. I will miss you forever. Till we meet again..dlm
Gary, I miss you and love you. You are the most talented musician ever. I have grown up and grown old on your music. Forever you are in my heart as a vital sign. Know that you were loved and missed. Your music is the absolute best and “my empty glass” misses you 24/7. I LOVE YOU!!! I knew that divorce was inevitable for me when my hubby couldnt love me like you loved your sweet wife. my life is better for having one little ole’ cd.
I grew up with the Stewarts and married one of their cousins. Gary’s son, Joey, was one of my best friends and was over to my house as a teenager eating dinner with my family. Gary was a great singer and loved his family terribly. I hope that his daughter is doing well and am really sorry to hear about his death. Nobody could belt them like Gary! He will be missed. I wish he didn’t have to leave us but understand that he must have been very sad at losing MaryLou. I know he was devastated when he lost Joey.
I got to work with Gary at a Bull Riding in Oklahoma. He had the ability to really bring the house down. I spent about an hour with him at a western store before the shindig. He seemed so down to earth and enjoying life. He will be missed for sure. God Bless him. Tommy Don Hardeman
I sat on the back of the stage at Billy Bob’s Texas back in 1980 and saw one of the best musical performance of my life. Gary was a true honky tonk singer that many of us could relate to so well back in the day-I’ve gotten a little too old for the bar life now but I still love to listen to Gary Stewart often… I wept when I heard he took his own life. Drink one for me Gary-wherever you are… And thanks.
There are only a few true artists that have that something special. Gary Stewart had it. He was in very good company with those like Hank Williams, Marty Robbins, and Waylon Jennings. I will always miss that unique Stewart warble.
p i have played country music most of my life and met gary at fan fair in nashville back in 70’s and talked with him for quite a while. enjoyed his talent very much and still do some of his songs on every show we perform. i greatly miss this great entertainer.God bless him and the family. Barry jackson
From as far back as i can remember the first musician i listened to was Gary Stewart. Since my Mother and Father grew up with Gary and in the early 80’s Traveled with him to concerts around the nation for many years i have a wide knowledge of him. When gary passed away it struck me like nothing had before and my Father only said to me “I lost my best friend Gary Stewart” they were very close and it is hard for me to believe my dad actually had the oppurtunity that he had. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest county-western singers of all time. And if you are curious if im telling the truth look on the back of the cactus and the rose record for “STORMIN NORMAN” thats my dad.
One more thing i cant belive i forgot my mom is dedicated on the back of the cactus and the rose album also listed as “PRETTY PAULA”
GARY STEWART~~~~KING OF HONKY TONK~~~~~
Back in my college days of the mid seventies, I worked as bartender in Huntsville Texas (16th Street Station) and we flat wore out the “Out of Hand” Album. The bar manager would send everyone out at closing time with “…its motel time…” Great C&W dance and listening music and he is sorely missed!
The loss of Gary Stewart will never be forgotten.
His music and talent continues to lighten my days and nights. He wasn’t just a good country music singer, but absolutely the best. Whether I’m at my best or worst, Gary Stewart’s music is always a constant.
it must have been about 1988 or so when i saw someone wearing a t-shirt that said something to the effect of “i saw gary stewart at … in livingston texas” i remembered wondering who he was and how i could possibly know i was going to like a sing just by the title. that title was “she’s actin single (i’m drinkin doubles)” i finally drove all the way to cypress,texas to see gary in Nov 2001. i got see him again in late 2002 or early 2003 in huntsville,tx both shows were great i still wish i would have jumped on stage and stolen the play list.
i have gotten probably half a dozen of my friends addicted to gary and my goal in life is to tell as many people as i can about gary and his music. his is the only cd that never leaves my cd changer and if i go to a place that is ‘country” and gary is not on the jukebox i dont stay very long.
may you rest in peace with lou.
After reading through the tributes posted on this site, I felt compelled to write something. This is the first time I have been able to look at the internet sites about Gary since his passing. These words that I read tell the story of Gary’s success. Each one of these tribute writers have taken the time to express their sympathy, their love of his music, the memories he gave them…etc. This is exactly what Gary was all about. His life was entertaining people. I have read several articles written by people who claimed to have Gary all figured out. HA!! If I had a nickel for everytime I heard he was an alcoholic (NOT TRUE!) I could retire. Gary drank less than most of us…….but I have learned that his fans knew him alot better than the media. These tributes to Gary have turned the tables. They are actually a tribute to his fans. This is a testimonial of their loyalty and dedication. He was truly the greatest and maybe its because of his talent or maybe because he enjoyed the luxury of the greatest fans. Nobody misses Gary any more than I do and I never pass up a chance to talk about him. Anyone who wants to chat about Gary, send me an Email at HankWestern@aol.com. Gary & I were best friends for years. (Terry P. is a VA. fencejumper).
I saw Gary at a concert in a small place in Wichita Falls, Tx (my hometown). He had played here many times and this was the only one I could attend. I have listened to “The Man’s” music since I was 10. I am 34 now. Guess who’s in my CD player right now? Its kinda ironic how I decided to look for him on the internet tonight. Me and my wife LOVE YOU AND ALWAYS WILL!!!!! When I get there with you I hope you’ll have a beer and sing for us. I couldnt imagine a better way to spend eternity!! All of our love, you are missed, Craig @ Shenista
True Gary was a great artist but he was more than that he was a good man and he is missed.
I loved seeing Gary Stewart perform back in the 80’s at the Texas Tea House and later at Wills Barn. He made Honkytonkin fun! May he rest in peace.
Please, to anyone who has something of his autographed(boots, hat, etc.), would you please send me a digital picture of the autographed item? I found a straw Resistol hat with what I think is his autograph and I would like to confirm it if possible.
Alan
grapejuice@dakotart.com
I first heard the Out of Hand album in 1975. My mother, five sisters, and two brothers and I are all fans of the incomparable Gary Stewart. I understand from reading the tributes above that many other people feel the same as we do about him. We will never stop listening to Gary’s music!
I wish his family and close friends the best.
I first dug Gary on Denver radio station KLAK’s Night Ride in the 1970s. And today I feature him on my C&W show, “Hillbilly Hiatus,” on KRZA FM Alamosa/Taos Community Radio. How wonderful that Gary’s voice still graces, like the fine fragrance of pinon and juniper, the Southwest. How sad that he took his life. Rest in peace, m’man.
Growing up in SE Texas in the 70’s and hanging out with my dad at his body shop in Clute, there weren’t too many days to go by that Houston country station 1070 KENR wasn’t playing on the radio. I remember not liking country music too much at the time, as most of my friends were into KISS and Nugent. Now when I remember that dusty old shop and the days spent there helping my dad, all those songs start replaying in my mind. Gary Stweart’s songs were a staple of that time periods country playlists, and I’m so glad that I was able to have his music be a part of those good memories.
Anyone who listens to Garys music will know that he was a talented man. He had his own sound for music. I grew up in eastern Kentucky not far from where Gary was born. I live in Pike County which borders Letcher County where he lived. People around here still listen to his music as if every song he sung was a top 10 hit. We would not trade his style of music here for any other in existence. All you have to do is ask people around here who is one of the greatest singers of all time and you will hear Gary Stewart a lot. We also have Patty Lovelace from here to but as great as she is she’ll never have the following as Gary Stewart has. I wish that things could have been different for him in his life as something had to bother him for him to do what he did. He came here many times in his career performing at Marlows Country Palace. We no longer have Gary here on earth but his legacy will never die.
I have listen to Gary since 1975.I grew up with is music. I can’t count the times I have seen him @ southern junction & various other places in Texas. I seen him the last time he played @ The Top Rail. My friend & I stood in front of the stage the whole time. He put on an awsome show. I spoke with Tommy & Gary briefly after the show. It’s been a little over a year now that he has left us….but I still think of him on a daily bases. I will listen to his music for the rest of my life & remember what a great man & singer he is. To his Texas Honky Tonk Band….I miss seeing all of ya’ll.
I saw Gary a few years back at the Melody Ranch in Waco, Tx. He put everything he had into his music, he was one of the all time honky-tonk greats. He will be missed, but his music will live on forever.
17 Days Of Lonley
Teardrops fell from the sky,
and in my heart I dont even ask why.
The shadows on your walls hanted you
not so long,
It must of felt like forever sence
shes been gone.
lonley steps down the halls pretty
paintings on your walls
a ship in a bottle on the book shelf
next to you.
yesterdays gone she wont be
forgotten yesterdays gone, yesterdays gone
night falls on a love of so many
years nothing takes the pain away
so you kill your tears.
Fly away spirt soar your way home
back in her arms where you belong
yesterdays gone your not alone
yesterdays gone your finaly home
In Memory of the true love and music
of Mary Lou Stewart and Gary Stewart
Melissa Lynan Hamilton Williams
Copyright
I saw Gary many years ago at Lakeside Amusement Park in Salem, Va with my cousin. I ordered a double cd and recieved it just 2-3 weeks ago and was just listening to it with my cousin last week. We were talking about what a great musician he was. I was just looking for a website to get tour information so I could see him again when I came across this notice. We will miss him. I especially liked the song “Leah” and just met a girl named Leah a month ago. One of the first things I said to her was “Leah I want to see ya one more time”. What a terrible tradgedy.
Gary Stewart was my cousin. I never knew he was my cousin for a long time until 2 years ago. I love his music. He was a great man and just had troubles in his life that he couldnt get past. I will always remember him. My grandmother actually talks to his mother often. He will be missed.
Gary Stewart visited the Navajo Nation in Arizona many times and he wowed the Navajos. Back in 1977 he performed in Kayenta Monument Valley at a rodeo school and as a kid I admired his ability to sing great songs. Many were impressed and to this day many still are. It’s a shame he never performed again in Indian Country before his passing… our hats are off to the Great Gary Stewart!
As a great fan of Gary Stewart, I remember going to one of his concerts on the Navajo Reservation in Window Rock, AZ (Window Rock Civic Center). He wowed his mixed audience with his great music and when he took a break, he mingled with his fans. I got a chance to meet him and he actually put his arm around me and we walked to a concession stand where we shared a soda and talked. He kissed me on the cheeck and returned to the stage. That was the last time I saw him. I will always treasure that moment. Thank you Gary…you will be greatly missed. Love you always.
Jenny
I discovered Gary Stewart in the evenings listening to 100.3 (Houston station) late in the evenings. An extremly under appreciated Hontytonk Mastermind. My brother Justin and I would ride around for hours in the back woods of Central Texas having many cold beers wishing we could be half of what Gary Stewart was. I saw Stewart in Fort Worth at Billy Bobs with my parents Mark and Nancy O’Neal and in Katy Texas with my good friend Daniel Carden. Seeing him two times is as good as it will get, but it could never be enough. The Out of Hand Man from SOUR LAKE TEXAS.
Simply the best country music singer that’s ever lived. I will miss hearing new music from Gary. God Bless you.
I think I have every song Gary Stewart recorded. His music has traveled with me since cassette players first went into cars and now he travels with me on CDs. Since I first heard “Out of Hand” in the 70’s I’ve been one of his biggest fans. I never saw him in person, only on TV, but his unique voice and delivery giving it all he have never failed to reach a special part of me. I read about his death in a Country magazine in January a month after it happened and it was a shock to my heart. I wish he had known how much he meant to so many people – never accurately reflected by recognition in Nashville. May he rest in peace – the prayers of many go with him.
gary signed a poster with his picture on it from flores country store in helotes texas. me and all my high school budies followed him where ever he played he was the man.
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Gary’s
death and have every album he put out. Since
so much tribute has already been so well stated,
I just want to say if you haven’t heard his
entire “Gary” album (RCA,1979), i suggest you try to find it – this is a great record. Thanks.
I only had the oppurtunity to see Gary live twice, although I have been listening to his music since the mid 70,s. I saw him live at Alpine Valley in East Troy Wisconsin with Hank Jr. in the early 80,s and at Cowboys in Kennesaw, Georgia in the early 90,s. He seldom played Georgia.I never met him although I understand he was very friendly and approchable. Gary was so talented, I can,t believe he is gone.Does anyone know who is playing steel guitar on Live at Biily Bobs Texas?
As far as My Husband and I am concerned, Gary Stewart was one of the greatest singers of all time and his shoes can never be filled. He never recieved the credit that he truely deserved. You wont find better songs than “Empty Glass” and “Quits”. And that is just naming 2 of his many wonderful songs. He was a real country music singer that sung from the heart, not like the songs you hear on the radio today. His music will never die around our home. It will be passed on from generation to generation
folks gary was a good boy i was too young to hear of him back in his prime but my brother ust 2 play him in the truck on the way 2 school when i was younger but i now realize how gary got shafted and wish he was still in texas playin LONG LIVE GARY STEWERT YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW
TAKIN ME A WISKY TRIP
I seen Gary perform many times at Marlow Tackett’s Country Palace in Pikeville,Ky. during the mid to late 80’s. I did’nt learn of his death until april of this year.I’ll sure miss you Gary. In the words of Tom T. Hall,” I guess the good LORD likes a little picking too!”
i am very sorry about garys death he was my favorite singer . iwill always miss him . does anyone know if gary had a fan club . please let me know ? and also why did gary do this . had he been sick or was it his family? gary i am your fan always. and like other fans i am pissed at people like cmt who did not talk about his death very much at all .and they did not do a special about his life like most singers. if it had been toby keith or tim magraw they would have talked about it for a week. people like gary were legends before toby keith even knew what music was . gary should be in the country music hall of fame . tim
Sorry to see Gary go in such a manner. He surely went a long way since performing “In The Room Above The Street” on POP! GOES THE COUNTRY in 1976. I saw that performance on the show last week, reruns of which are aired currently on RFD-TV. Gary gave the single worst live vocal performance that I have ever heard by anyone to this day. I could not believe that he survived that performance to go onto a great career. Must have really been an off night, so it’s good everyone gave him another chance. RIP, Gary.
How shocked i was!I love Gary Stewarts Music there is no one and i mean no one i would rather listen to.I can’t believe i hadn’t heard anything about his death.I was watching RFD last night,they run some older music from Willy Nelsons library.This was Pop Goes The Country And Gary Stewart and Mickey Gilly were on as the guests.I called my brother to tell him Gary Stewart was on as we both love him.Of course he said he’d turn it on and watch.Then this morning he called and said he forgot to ask me if i knew of his death?You could have knocked me over.After all tis time and i had never heard a thing,and i always listen to country stations.What in the heck are they thinking?Don’t those fools realize how much and how many of us loved him and his music?I am so discusted about it i think i will stop listening to it altogether.Find all the Gary Stewart I can and only listen to him.HE WAS& STILL IS THE BEST….
I just found out who sings driking thing &she acting single. he has the most wonderfullest voice Iever heard. todays date 6/12/05. ilooked up his web to find out about him. i was crushed to find out about his death . Iwill miss him along with all the others . love Y gary.love gail gorsuch.
One of my fondest memories as a child was hearing “She’s Actin’ Single” blaring from the speakers in my parents blue Ford truck, I think we were at some sort of picnic or something. All of my family have always listened to county and I grew up on it, along the way I strayed a bit, but I always come back to it and there was nothing better than seening my legends play live in concert. The first time I saw Gary was at Tin Hall (another one of my parent’s old stomping grounds) and I had to practically drag my husband with me, now he knows all the songs too! It’s a shame that ther are only a handful of county artists out nowadays that know what real country music is all about. I think George and Alan summed it up with their “Murder on Music Row” duet. You are gone, but not forgotten…your music will forever live on. Thank you for all the wonderful memories.
No one will ever replace Gary Stewart and his drankin songs. Does anyone know the paper in Palm Beach that ran his orbit or know where I could find a copy.
There was NO ONE like Gary Stewart in the 70’s when he was most popular. I’m sure that being true to his music and not being a “Nashville Puppet” explains why he didn’t see more success. I believe Gary Stewart had the greatest voice of any country singer ever!! He was the true definition of a honky tonk singer.
i just wanted to say that i love gary stewart’s music. i never got a chance to see him live. i feel like i missed a true legend of country music. country music could still learn a thing or two from gary stewart’s music. he poured out his heart and soul in every song. u can hear the honesty and sincerety. i wish his family the best. some candles r blown out way b4 they r thru burning. thanx for ur music and god bless ur soul gary. we all love u.
i can remember my mother dancing around the house to gary stewart music with me in her arms she loved that man and thought he walked on water… my mother died in 1999 of cancer she was 52 yrs old and she was still listening to gary up to the day she died all her records are warped now but i still bring them out and play them and i dont have the heart to throw them out they were such a part of my mothers life like they are to me now it is sad that a wonderful man faded into the back ground when he had so much to say through his music that touched my mother now me im sorry that he is gone and i hope that he is singing to god and enjoying that wonderful gift god has given him rest in peace your music has lived on even through my children thank you sincerily sonja
Gary Stewart was a traditional country artist loved and appreciated in Texas. His twang and heartfelt pain penetrated his music and unfortunately is what made it so good. Give me folks like Gary Stewart any day as opposed to the “bubble gum” country of artist nowadays like Kenny Chesney…
I recall hearing Gary’s songs on the radio when I was a kid growing up in Houston. In the late 80’s was when I became a huge fan. I’ve seen him in all kinds of bars, honky tonks and hole in the walls over the years. In the 90’s I was in the bar business and two of the companies I worked for booked him regularly. I was lucky enought to do his entro at several concerts and put away more than a few drinks with him and his band. He was one of a kind. I always introduced him as a country legend. In my mind he always will be.
I only learned of Gary”s passing while watching cmt last December and saw his name flash across the screen, what a shame he wasn”t given the recognition he deserved! I have had his greatest hits album for years and play it every day. I sing karaoke in a bar in Butler, Mo., and do the three songs available (Out of Hand) (She”s acting single), and (Your Place or Mine) I dont hold a candle to Gary”s voice, but i make sure his music lives on, God bless ya Gary.
i first heard gary stewart in the early 70s with out of hand but i guess my pick will be IN SOME ROOM ABOVE THE STREET because back then i had just started driving a truck was in my early 20s and knew it all about a room above the street but there were alot of hang overs listening to his music and my loud pipes on my mopar muscle cars but he was the man.to bad the jackasses in the music bus. couldnt have treated him like he deserved even after death oh well alot of us shall never forget or outgrow THE MAN=GARY STEWART=THANKS GARY I DONT DRINK ANYMORE BUT I STILL TURN THE VOLUME UP TO THE TOP
I lived 2 streets over from Gary Stewart in Fort Pierce, Fl. in the early to mid 80’s. I caught the school bus in his front yard. I was young then but had been listening to his music since I was knee high to a grass hopper!! Saw a few of his shows a few times over the years at small venues, enjoyed them very much. He’s still played daily on my ipod You are very missed Gary!! The best beer drinking music ever.
Last nite by mistake I downloaded a song by Gary Stewart so I thought I really liked the music so I thought I would look up on the internet and damn made me mad he had died.My lord he sounds so good such a waste of talent but I pray to meet him one day with our lord to thank him for giving us such beautiful music
He was the king of ower honkytonks,and always will be my honkytonk hero.
I had the privilage of meeting Gary back in the 80’s in Grapevine Texas @ the Grapevine Operhy. I got to talk to him for awhile and he was such a pleasent person. I told him that because of him and his music I enjoyed country music. I still listlen to his music every chance I have. I even sing and play his songs on my guitar always . Thank Gary May GOD Bless You.
I am surely proud to have read all of these tributes to my talented uncle Gary…..He really is at rest knowing your appreciaton….Thanks for the admiraton of his unique work here on Earth..His family will miss him too!!!
he was so terrific. I won tickets to see him at billy bob’s at fort worth the kast performamce that was cancelled. drove down there from Purcell, ok. he had cancelled the show. I’ve listened to him for many yrs. he was the greatest. the louder the music, the better. he was gifted with a beautiful voice. didn’t know of his passing until tonite. I’m sorry I never got to see him live. sorry for your loss.
I am sad to say that before this year, I have never heard of Gary Stewart. I was working on my genealogy one day and a cousin of mine told me that Gary was a distant cousin of mine. My Stewart family is also of eastern KY from Jackson Co. So, when I heard of the name Gary Stewart, I rushed out and bought a CD of his. Boy, I was in a surprise! I have to admit that Gary is one of the most talented country musicians of all time. His voice is pure soul. When you hear his music, you can feel that he is singing straight from the heart and not just the sheet. I am now a hooked Gary Stewart fan. I wish I would have known more about him sooner. His music is to the heart and has meaning. Rest in peace cousin Gary. You will be missed!
I GREW UP LISTENING TO GARY STEWART, I CAN REMEMBER THE VERY FIRST JOB I HAD WHILE IN H.S. AND ACTIVE IN RODEOS ALL ACROSS NORTH TEXAS, MY BOSS OWNED A WESTERN WEAR STORE IN JACKSBORO TEXAS, CIRCLE G WESTERN WEAR…NOT ONCE WAS SHE EVER OPEN THAT HE WASN’T PLAYING 24/7, I FELT LIKE HE WAS SOMEONE I WANTED TO MEET IF EVER THE CHANCE ARRIVED AND IT DID AND HE WAS GONNA BE AT LAKE WORTH AT A CLUB CALLED COWBOY CITY (NO LONGER OPEN) BUT OF COURSE I WANTED TO FINALLY MET THE MAN THAT COULD ALWAYS GET EVERYONE WOUND UP ON A FRIDAY NITE… HE WAS ABOUT TO BE ON STAGE AND THE MANAGER STEPPED OUT AND SAID “SORRY FOLKS” GARY HAS TAKEN HIM A WHISKEY TRIP!!! WE ALL GOT RAIN CHECKS AND HE WAS DEFINATELY WORTH THE WAIT…
Unbeleivable, I just heard of Gary Stewarts death yesterday. CMT and the likes should be ashamed to let something like that go by with out some kind of tribute. My band Front Row opened for Gary at Desperados in Humble Texas about 12 years ago and I will never forget that night and how gracious he was to us and all the fans, and as usual for a Gary Stewart show, the club was standing room only. I first saw Gary at Dance Town USA in Houston TX over 25 years ago. He was always underapreciated and undisputedly the greatest Honky Tonk singer since Hank. Gary we will miss you buddy.
I was born and raised in Southeastern Oklahoma. Still live there. My mother raised me listening to the likes of Gary Stewart, Waylon Jennings, Charley Pride, Johnny Paycheck. She would have them cranked up while she sat at her sewing machine. I had a cousin who was older than I was, but we were real close. He went through a divorce and i would go spend time while he was crying in his beer trying to get over it (I was going through a pregnancy as a single mother also)and Gary Stewart was out choice of tunes. I stayed home for 4 weeks with my first son. From the beginning I danced him around our kitchen and dining room to the music of Gary Stewart. He became spoilt to it and that was the only way you could get him to sleep. We rodeo and take our kids with us to lots of the dances after the rodeo’s and when my kids started learning how to dance they wanted to learn to the music of Gary Stewart. being raised on a ranch, I was expected to do everything like my brother and I have lived my life that way. In doing so, I have put myself through lots of hell, and i can relate to most of his songs. Gary Stewart can bring an instant smile to my face and make my spirits soar just hearing him. He can also reduce a person to tears remembering their heartaches while listening to his down-and-out tunes. He will always and forever be one of my favorites. I wish he received more recognition and much, much more play time on the radio’s.
WoW! This is a great site with many tributes and stories about Mr. Gary Stewart that bring out many memories of my own. I was 15 to 16 years old in the early 90’s when my father Jack became Gary Stewarts manager. I was with my dad and Gary many times, through many live shows and so many miles of Texas highway traveled. I remember watching them shoot the pictures for the album cover of “Im A Texan” at The LongHorn Ballroom in Cut N Shoot Texas owned by the legendary singer Larry Butler. Many times I was with my father to pick Gary up at the airport on Thursday just to be on the road soon after for a three day three show weekend all over Texas. Tin Hall and Billy Bobs Texas was my favorite places to watch Gary perform even though Gary, no matter the size of the place or the crowd he played his heart out every night. Great Times it was for Gary and his band The Toman Brothers as well as one of the best guitar players I ever saw Donnie McDuff who has also passed away. Gary was a very soft spoken man with a heart of gold, his music and honky tonk attitude will live on forever. I guess my father and our family were some of the lucky ones to really get to know Gary and his wife on a personal level. Many pictures and the few live video recordings we have of Gary hold a speacial place in our hearts. My father and I agree that the Country Music Association should give Gary his place among the greatest of all time in country music. I just always hoped Gary and his music would live on forever and I can see now it will through all of us. Gary you are one of a kind…we miss you .. Joey & Jack
My friend Randy took me back stage to meet Gary at Southern Junction in Rockwall Tx back in August of 1996. I remember Gary came up and introduced himself and was such a nice guy. He will truly be missed. He introduced me to honky tonk music. Which I now love. I can’t say enough about this great man.
i was gary mech.and good friend of the family shannon i feel your pain gary will be missed very much shanon you will be in my prayers
I first heard Gary Stewart back in the late 70’s and he grabbed my heart,after spending many years abroad I came home to hear that he had died, What in the Hell is wrong with the so called country music world that they can’t be bothered to at the very least play a tribute to a man who was better than most of the “slick”boys they shove down our throats. Gary Stewart was one of a kind and we are a lot poorer with his passing, May God grant him the peace he searched for.
I grew up in a small Texas town- living hard and wild – and Gary Stewart was always in one of our tape players. He was as much a part of our nights as the stars in the sky! His music is one of a kind and there will never be anyone who can come anywhere close to him. I hope that somehow he realized what feeling his music evoked and I hope that he enjoyed some of his life as much as I always have and always will enojoy listening to his unbelievable voice. He is a part of me.
I seen one of Gary’s Last concerts in North Dakota, February 2nd, 2002. He was truly the greatist I’ve every seen and i and my band did a tribute to him in our favorite nightclub on 02-02-04. May god bless him and I know his music will always live on.
Gary was one of those artists that make your hair stand on end when you hear and see him sing.
It’s too bad they don’t realize how much people love them when they are alive.
BACK IN THE EARLY 70,s MY DAD PHIL HORTON WORKED AT GRUMMAN AREOSPACE IN STUART FL.HE CAME HOME FROM WORK ONE DAY AND SAID TO ME THAT HE JUST SHOOK HANDS WITH ONE OF HIS CO WORKERS GARY STEWART AND HE WISHED HIM LUCK THAT HE WAS GOING TO NASHVILLE TO SEE IF HE COULD MAKE IT IN THE MUSIC BUSINESS.THE REST IS HISTORY.I BECAME AN INSTANT FAN OF GARY STEWART I SAW HIM AT THE WEST PALM BEACH AUDITORIUM WHEN HE WAS ON TOUR WITH CHARLIE PRIDE.HE WAS A SMASH HIT IN SOUTH FLA.COUNTRY K 108 RADIO DID HIM GREAT JUSTUS.DRINKING THING AND OUT OF HAND WERE ALL OVER THE RADIO WAVES AT THAT TIME.I FELT VERY HONORED THAT MY DAD NEW AND WORKED WITH HIM.I SAW HIM PERFORM AT THE ST LUCIE COUNTY FAIR NOT TO LONG BEFOR HIS PASSING.WE TALKED ABOUT MY DAD AND THE OLD GRUMMAN DAYS.I AM SO GLAD I GOT PICTURES WITH HIM.I HAVE A GARY STEWART SHRINE AT MY HOME IN TRIBUTE.I WAS STANDING IN DUNKIN DONUTS WAITING FOR MY MORNING COFFEE AND GLANCED AT THE FRONT PAGE OF THE FORT PIERCE TRIBUNE AND SAW THAT GARY HAD DIED,I WAS IN SHOCK WHAT A LOSS.DECEMBER 19 IS MY BIRTHDAY.I SPENT MY BIRTHDAY THAT YEAR AT GARYS STEWARTS FUNERAL.
I AM THE CHAPTER LEADER FOR THE WORLD FAMOUS CRIMEFIGHTING GUARDIAN ANGELS FT PIERCE CHAPTER.PATROLING THE STREETS OF THE CITY I RUN INTO PEOPLE NOW AND THEN THAT NEW GARY.ITS FUN HEARING THE DIFFERENT STORIES AND SEEING SOME OF THE LOCATIONS HE USE TO PERFORM AT.
GARY STEWART YOU ARE MISSED. A VERY TRUE FAN. STEVE HORTON PORT ST LUCIE FL.
my dad loves him, i adore him because of my dad, i think he is the greatest. especially “an empty glass”
Gary Stewart wow i can’t believe i didn’t know him a little better seems i work right down the street from were he lived in fort pierce florida did’nt know much about him but i found out fast and enjoy listening to his honky tonk country music.
Gary Stewart Fan 4-life
Dustin Herrick
Port st. lucie fl.
My buddies and I back in Seminole Texas thought Gary Stewart and Jerry Jeff Walker were the 2 best singers and pickers we had ever heard.
We would crank Gary up at keg parties while we had a bonfire and people would immediatly start dancing right there in the dirt. This was back in the late 80’s. I now live in Albuquerque and whenever my wife and I can get out to the bar we always request Gary Stewart to the DJ. When “Empty Glass” or “Quits” come on the dance floor gets packed!!!! Your lucky if you can even move around. This happens anywhere in West Tx HonkYtonks as well.
Recently we went to Ruidoso NM. and went out on a Saturday night to the only bar in town called “WIN, PLACE, SHOW” and the house band there did a few Gary Stewart songs and the same thing happened…you couldn’t get to the dance floor fast enough. I think that is a great tribute to Gary’s music. It was for dancing close and really feeling his voice just touch your soul.
I burned a cd for my dad with a bunch of Gary’s songs a while back and he said that it brought back tons of memories from the 70’s when he and my mom would go honky-tonking in Lubbock.
Gary, you will be missed. There are still 2 cd’s I don’t have but I will get those shortly.
TEX
Kickin back tonight listening some oldies when Gary started singing. It had been a while since I heard a song by Gary so I decided to Google him to see what was going on in his life. Makes me sad to be at this site paying tribute to a great singer. Have to admit I strayed away from Country Music in the 90’s because to me it’s not the real thing anymore. At 40+ years old I’m a country music fan from 80’s back to Jimmie Rodgers. Country music fans lost a great singer and nobody today will ever be able to fill his shoes. Gary may be gone but he will not be forgotten.
Ron
Gary Stewart lived a life that some people could only dream of and a life that some people would call degrading a waste of so much potential. He might not of made the choices condoned by todays society, but however Gary Stewart lived the life that he wanted to live and although i never got the chance to meet or ask him i highly doubt that he would’ve lived his life any other way. There will never be anyone that comes close to another Gary Stewart, if they made a movie about him it would blow “Walk the Line” away, the stories about him and the life he lived would blow people away. I’ve introduced his music to so many people and there’s just nothing like letting someone hear Gary for the first time and them wandering why they’ve never heard of him before. Whenever me and my buddies are driving the dirtroads drinking some cold ones or sitting in a bar we always gotta hear some Gary. It just seems right. Gary Stewart defines drinking music.
David McConnell
Warner, Oklahoma
“An Empty Glass” enough said!
I love Waylon, I love Willie But I LOVE GARY STEWART. I saw him perform at Lady Long Legs in Beaumont, TX several times, even when his leg was in a cast. He was dynamite even with the cast. I saw him once jump upon a 4 X 4 banister and belt out his song. There was so much feeling in him. We talked once and I felt the sadness in his heart, it really suddened me. I do and will always love his music.
I have read over all of these emails and I think it’s all been said better than I could ever say it, but I do know that Gary Stewart has always been a big part of my life, and now my childrens, I feel country music cheated him and it makes me very angry, maybe had he had a little more support from the”SOCIETY”he would still be here. I can never exprss how much he will be missed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It’s been about a year and a half since I last visited this site. But I’m glad that people are still writing, thinking about and sharing stories about The Greatest Honky Tonk Singer that ever lived. I know my life would be a lot poorer without having heard Gary. Thank you for what you did Gary!
I REMEMBER SITTING ON HIS COUCH DRINKING A BEER HE WAS PLAYING HIS ASS OFF, WHEN SOMEONE PICKED A PILL OF SOME KIND OFF THE FLOOR PUT IT ON HIS TABLE, THE NEXT THING I KNEW HE HAD TAKEN THE PILL. ABOUT 10 MINS WENT BY AND HE FELL OVER PASSED OUT ON HIS COUCH, WE LEFT AND NEVER SAW HIM AGAIN.
THIS WAS ABOUT 1986 I LEFT FT PIERCE AND HAVE NEVER BEEN BACK.
As a direct blood relitive of Gary Stewart I think its awesome that people are still remembering him and most importantly his music. I think his death was a loss to country music culture. And the guy that said that if that made something like ‘Walk The Line’ on Garys life it was be awesome…I agree…I think A Gary Stewart story could be rather exciting to say the least. I’m proud to say Gary Stewart is my cousin.
-LaRanda K. Baker
Letcher Co Kentucky
This broke my girls heart…. and I’m sorry… She has the tickets to the last Gary Stewart show in Houston.
I have followed Gary from Houston (Dancetown USA),(Tin Hall) to Bryan College Station (Denim & Diamonds), to Brenham (Silverwings), just to name a few places I have seen the Gary over the years. Always had time to chat to his fans & sign a few CD’S or whatever you might had in your hand at that time. Last time I saw Gary was at Tin Hall, I was lucky to have front row seats, & took pictures through out the whole show. I save the ticket, the pic’s, & the signed autpgraph copy of one of his CD’S not knowing that would be my last time see in his element. I will forever cherish that night!
The Stars should be shinning a little brighter tonight. Gary will be greatly missed!
the greatest ever. you will be missed in axtel,texas.
i have seen gary at about every bar in texas. i remember my favorite was in 1994 in mexia texas. the music reached down deep inside me. that was the first time i relly herd the words, it made an impression on me that will never fade.
thank you gary
my glass will never be totaly empty
Gary Stewart was an amazing performer, songwriter, and person. Unfortunately, country music especially has a reputation for having the most tortured of souls in it’s family. Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, and especially Gary. It is my belief that the most beautifully creative people are the most pained and wounded. As a young singer/songwriter, I site Mr. Stewart as a huge influence-not only in vocal technique, songwriting stylings, but in her personal life. He was an amazing person. I also agree with my fellow Stewart fans that Nashville shunned him because he wasn’t straight country. Aparently “Country Music” doesn’t have a place for our beloved musicians, such as Gary, Hank Jr(who has also been slightly shunned by Music Row), Waylon, and a few others. It is true that we are all deeply affected by the tragic death of such a beautiful talent, but remember this, my friends-as long as we have the music, he will never really die. He lives on everytime his songs are played, even if “country radio” won’t play them. I am now, as I have been and always will be, a fan of Gary Stewart.
In the 1970’s in the NYC area I used to watch Pop goes the country and listen to Del Demonico on A.M. radio. I was a major minority. I saw Charlie Pride on the Pop show and Gary Stewart played piano and sang. My gawd! My 1960’s cover/original band (at that time!!) immediately added Drinking Thing and Out of Hand right next to Love me 2 times in our repertoire. I still play his songs today and I was surfing for a CD by him. My heart is saddened that he’s not around. Gary Stewart will always be in my life.
Those of us that were there……the Back Stage Bar inside the Coldwater Cattle Company, Lubbock, Texas…..WE have some of the GREATEST memories of Gary…………..We will Miss or Brother.
Gary was an amazing performer. I had the honor of opening for him at the north texas state fair the year before he died. i didnt ask for his autograph, and i regret it everyday. He was an awseome guy as a person and as a musician.
Gary Stewart THE KING OF HONKY TONK. The original Honkycat. It was a shame what he did I never had a chance to see him live. He was the best singer song writer of his time. I would do any thing to see him live just one time. We will miss u.
He is a very good singer and he did not to deserve to die and he would have been great if he lived and he would be rich. we all miss you
i love listening to gary stewart,i still get sad when i play his music.he was a good man.i been driving back and forth from alabama to houston on a job, that is all i listen to. i had the great plesure of seeing him in concerts.i still, to this day,can’t believe he is gone..all my prayers go out to his family.gary,you are truly missed here in alabama……………
I met Gary and Mary Lou when they lived in Franklin, TN in the early 70’s just about the time his career was taking off. Their kids were the same age as mine and we had much in common. We were neighbors and our sons became good friends but Shannon would not remember me or my daughter as the girls were around 2 years old. Over the years “Crazy Lou” and I kept in touch sporadically and I last saw her in the early 80’s when she and Gary were in Nashville and he was recording. She gave me pictures of Shannon and Joey and we spent the evening together talking about our lives, etc. Not long after Gary died my ex emailed me and asked if I knew anything about it, which I didn’t. In fact it was just last week I learned what had happened to Joey, Lou and Gary. My heart goes out to Shannon and her son. I have traveled up and down I-95 past Ft. Pierce many times over the past 20 years and always thought about stopping and now I am so sad I didn’t. Their friendship was without any constraint. Whenever you saw them it was just like it had only been a day or two since the last time you saw them. One time we were on the way to a concert, six of us in the car, and someone said something that triggered with Gary, he yelled for a pen and paper to write it down. I always wondered what song came of it. When they moved back to Florida in the early 70’s she and I exchanged personal items to remember each other. I still have mine. I have thought about them many times. Not because of their music (I was there when they wrote Williamson County) but because they were such a terrific couple. RIP
I MET GARY AT THE CHALO NITKA RODEO IN MOORE HAVEN FLA HE WAS SINGING AT THE DANCE THAT THEY HAVE EVERY YEAR. I WILL NEVER FORGET GARY HE WAS SO NICE AND KIND AND TREATED EVERYONE THE SAME. HE WAS NOT STUCK UP. HE STOOD THERE AND TALK TO EVERY ONE AS IF HE WAS JUST ONE OF THE GUYS AND NOT FAMOUS. WE WILL ALL MISS GARY AND WE WILL KEEP ON PLAYING THOSE SONG LIKE OKEECHOBEE PURPLE UNTIL THEY WONT PLAY ANY MORE. WE MISS YOU GARY.I WOULD LIKE TO SAY THAT YOU ARE TRULY MISSED HERE IN OKEECHOBEE AND MOORE HAVEN FLA. WE LOVE YOU.
I REMEMBER GOING TO THE WAGON WHEEL AND SEEING HIM ON STAGE. THAT WAS 40+ YRS AGO AND I WILL NEVER FORGET IT EITHER. I CAN NOT BELIVE THAT HE IS GONE.I STILL LOOK BACK AND WISH THAT HE WAS STILL HERE AND THAT THE WAGON WHEEL WAS TO. FOR ALL OF YA’LL WHO LIVED IN OR AROUND THE OKEECHOBEE AREA AND USED TO GO TO THE WAGON WHEEL YA’LL ALL UNDERSTAND. WE LOVE YA GARY MISS YA TO.!!!
I am VERY saddened to learn of Gary’s death. Although I had not kept up with him for several years, I had 2 or 3 of his record albums and had thought he had just drifted out into that never, never land that some of our great or greatest country singers eventually wind up. And the reason that this mostly happens can be laid at the feet of these so-called country music producers in Nashville now days. They dont want that type of country music that Gary, George Jones, Loretta Lynn, etc. would sing. They want too much rock mixed in to the music now days!
I guess we will never know how much pain Gary suffered while he lived among us. And maybe when his wife died, he lost his anchor. Doesnt it saddened you too when you think about other artists-Keith Whitley-who had such great talent. and we lose them because of their own destructive behavior? God gave them such a wonderful talent! They shared it with us, and then something happens, and they are gone forever!!! May God give Gary the Eternal rest and peace that he sought!!!
I met Gary & Lou (Mama Lou) throurgh Joey (their son) 1979 or 1980 I guess, we became friends very quickly and I lived with them for a short time(I don’t ever remember being star struck, Gary was so humble and he was just Gary)Lou and I became VERY close, I remember helping Shannon with homework and at first it was hard keeping up with hanging out with Lou during the day and continuing with Gary late at night,I remember saying to them ” I have to have some down time, ya’ll are killing me” they both laughed but agreed. Gary would stay up late at night listening to albums(his collection was endless)and he would sleep later in the day and Lou would go to bed earlier and get up earlier. Over the next 20 plus years I spent a lot of time with them, sometimes months would pass and we wouldn’t be in touch but every time we were together again it was like we were never apart. I have so many fond memories,photos(I’ve always had a love of photography-the ones with Gary & Lou are priceless to me now)I even have a recording Gary left for me on my home phone when I worked for him as his “Secretary” his words, really I did almost everything from house cleaning,grocery shopping,cooking taking care of what ever the boys in Texas asked of me(Terry,James and Glenn)taking Gary to antique stores/junk shops-(one mans junk is another mans treasures),(oh, the memories there, ha! ha! ha!)I booked flights for Texas venues (the last 10 years were mostly Texas not hometown venues, as I have read)I helped him with the last “album” (as Gary would still say)”Live at Billy Bobs” and was very suprised and honored one day when Lou asked me to come in Gary’s bedroom, he wanted to talk to me, in a joking manor I said “What ever it was I didn’t do it” Gary laughed and said,”Hey, I’m gonna put your name on this next album were working on at Billy Bob’s” I didn’t know what to say, I gave them both a big hug and told them that I was flattered, thank you. I never expected nor wanted anything from them, I was there friend and even though they paid me for many services that I did for both of them I often felt guilty for accepting money from them because there were like family to me, if I could have afforded it I would have been their personal assistant for free. I didn’t realize just how big a part of my life they were,and how much they cared for me and trusted me(I almost always had a key to their house(which was very private to them)and upon Garys death was asked for the code to the house alarm system. I only saw Gary once between Lou’s death and his(to my regret)but I just couldn’t get a grip on losing Lou, and I knew my continuous crying was not gonna help him in any way, she was probably my very best friend, a second mother,an older sister – Lord, What A Women – no truer words were sung by Gary. Many people knew and loved Gary but the people that never had the pleasure of knowing the woman behind the man will never know what they missed and those that did know exactly what I mean. I Love and Miss Gary very much but can’t say Gary without saying Lou,(Poncho and Sisco)they liked to call each other. As those closest to Gary also knew, I knew the day that Lou left us Gary would soon follow, nobody was gonna stop it, maybe, as some tried, they could post pone it but we knew he wasn’t gonna live without her, when he came home from doing shows Lou ALWAYS greeted him at the door dressed to the nines and as excited to see him as if he had been gone for 3 months, even though it had only been 3 days. The stories and memories that I have go on and on and I don’t want to ever forget one moment, through my friendship,love and life with these two very,very special people I met people that will forever be imbedded in the memories that I have and although that chapter of my life is forever over one person that is continuously in my thoughts is Terry Porter, I also hurt for the pain that I know he feels, when I would put Gary on the plane to Texas Terry would pick him up and take care of him,(and all that that implies)until putting him on his return flight back to Florida, when I would pick Gary up at the airport I would call Terry and say “The Eagle has landed” which meant I have him and were on our way home. Gary once told me that I was his second daughter in Florida and Terry was like another son in Texas, I know how much Gary Loved both Terry and James Willingham, he even said to me that he didn’t like doing shows much anymore until Terry and James came along, he said “hey, they make it fun,they keep me amused and laughing” The stories they have should be published one day. Lou once told me that there was no doubt in her mind that Terry would take a bullet for Gary, she didn’t worry about him when he was with Terry, and she didn’t give trust or compliments lightly.
The saddest thing I ever did was something I had done so many times without thought but the day Gary died I was asked to clean the house for them one more time. After everybody had gone I spent hours cleaning their bedrooms, tears never ending, thoughts and memories like they were still in the house flooded my mind. I have never felt so much pain in my heart as I have since I lost Lou and it was compounded by the loss of Gary. It doesn’t take much to make me cry when I think of them and it doesn’t seem to lessen much over time. I feel so honored to have played such a role in the lives of Gary & Mary Lou Stewart.
I recently moved to Alabama and don’t feel the draw back to Ft. Pierce Florida that I once did, maybe because they are gone and maybe just that chapter in my life is over.
I LOVE AND MISS YOU BOTH more than I ever imagined was possible. I know that I will see you again one day and until then I will hold you both in my heart and memories.
Barbara Anne Peters
I LISTEN TO GARY ON XM ,IT REMINDS ME OF THE GOOD TIMES ME AND MY LATE FATHER HAD RIDING AROUND IN THE (DO DO ) TRUCK. SEE WE USED TOO PUMP SEPTIC TANKS.AND I MISS THOSE TIMES WE USED TO SPEND TOGETHER LISTENING TO THE AM RADIO WITH MY HEAD ON THE DASH JUST RIDING AROUND TO JOBS.HE WOULD GO TO THE BEER STORE AND I WOULD SIT IN THE TRUCK WHILE HE SHOT THE BULL WITH HIS BUDDIES.I WISH HE COULD BE AROUND TO LISTEN TO THE RADIO WITH ME NOW.I THINK IT WOULD BRING BACK SOME GOOD MEMORIES.GARYS MUSIC REMINDS ME OF THOSE GOOD TIMES I CANT BRING BACK.
I remember attending one of Gary’s concert in Window Rock, Arizona in 1977 with my “High School Sweetheart, Vangie” and he was great, she (Vangie) received a kiss that she’ll probably remember all her life. And watching her eyes light up afterwards was rewarding! Too bad he’s not given any kind of recognition just like the late Wynn Stewart, who also was a great entertainer of our time who hasn’t received credit for stars that learned from him such as Buck Owens, Merle Haggard, and many others who sing many of his tunes. He will be remembered by many “Navajos” who loved his music and style of entertainment! I know that I will never forget such a great entertainer. Thanks inspiring us who still love your music! Rest in Peace Gary!.
I am a huge fan also, saw him play many time’s
most time’s at Dance Town in Houston.
I do not know how I missed hearing he had died?
I AM just now finding out after coming accross
this site! I am also frustrated he did not get
the respect he deserves !!!!!!!! He had more
tallent on one hand than half of what you see
and hear on TV and radio. When you hear the country stars talk about their peers, they never
mention him? I don’t get it!!!
Alex Harrah
i was very sadden by the news of Gary Stewart’s death. i was a great fan and admirer of Gary; his singing put goose bumps on my skin and the hair on the back of my neck stood up. such feelings and i did like his virbrato voice. i don’t have many entertainers that move me; sort of the likes of Hank Williams songs. Gary Stewart had the same effect. i never saw him perform in person, much to my regret. i don’t think country music gave him the credit and recognition he deserved; such a great loss. any videos available of his performances(concerts, etc); quest appearances on tv shows(hee-haw, etc) that may be availabe, i would certainly be interested. i would like to have some for my collection as a memorial to Gary and enjoy his performances in his memory.
i saw gary one time in concert
. i really think he was a very loving and kind man he gave me a shirt a cap and an autigraphed photo at silver spur in lindsay texas he will truley be missed in oklahoma and north texas.
It’s my opinion that Gary Stewart is by far the best Country singer of all time. Bar none. Here in Texas, he’ll always be remembered. I just wish i could find the lyrics to Williamson County.
I was and and still am a HUGE Gary Stewart fan. The first time I saw him I will underage in lied about it to get into The Longhorn in Dallas to see him, I have many records,tapes and Cds that I have worn out playing. He will be missed all over the world.The first song I remember dancing with my dad was to a Gary Stewart song. Well now I guess he is in heaven with rest of the greats playing their music for the fans there, I know my mom & dad are listening.. We miss you, Gary.
I first heard Gary when i was a child. His tape never was never removed from my moms player.Ive loved his music from the time i was 5 years old, and always wanted to see him, finally got to do that in 2003 in coupland dancehall and he was as good as he ever was.. all I can say is GOD BLESS GARY STEWART!!! His life was a song and he shared it with us all..
I have a picture of Gary in my Grandmothers front yard at the peak of his career in a silk butterfly collar shirt with roses on it. What a cool pic it is. They went to school together in Jenkins KY. After he visited her he stole the “Welcome to Jenkins Ky pop.1200” sign and took it back to his home in Florida. How classic is that! Thank goodness for the internet and XM radio so that his music can live on.
I had a chance to see Gary Stewert in concert, 30 times around the GREAT NAVAJO NATION (Kayenta, Window Rock, Chinle, Shiprock, Tuba City)his music will never die We still love to hear him from our rez radio station http://www.ktnnonline.com Rest in Peace Gary. Thanks for all the great momeries Gary
Gary Stewart was THE BEST honky tonk singer ever. He had his own style of music and vocals that was unique to all the rest. He will always be remembered and his music will live on forever . He was one of the last remaing Greats.
GARY,
I STILL REMEMBER WHEN I WA LITTLE SITTING ON YOUR LAP AND YOU AND MY DAD (MARLOW TACKETT) YOU ALL WERE PLAYING YOUR GUITARS WHILE I WAS SINGING MOCKINGBIRD. THE LAST TIME I SAW YOU WAS WHEN I WAS 15 YRS. OLD AND YOU CAME TO MOMS SHOP SO SHE COULD CUT YOUR HAIR. WE MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU. YOUR ARE TRULEY A LEGEND AND I AM VERY PROUD TO HAVE KNOWN YOU MY WHOLE LIFE.
LOVE ALWAYS
WENDY SHANEL TACKETT
his songs were truth to his lifestyle.
You can’t say enough about this man. Truly one of the best “REAL” country music singers ever. His music touches your soul.
The Minnesota band I’m in is inspired by Gary Stewart’s great songwriting and singing, and we cover two of his songs, “Out of Hand” and “Single Again.” You can check out the former on our MySpace page:
http://www.myspace.com/thegatedcommunity
Like Gary, I grew up in Florida, so I love keeping his memory alive up here in the North.
i love everything gary ever sang.his voice was so different but so intoxicating.i can just sit and listen to him for hours and hours.i miss him and wish so bad he was still hear because i never got to see him in action and i know i really missed out on something spectacular.his music will forever be in my home and in my cd player,not this karoake junk they play on the radio now.WE ALL MISS YOU GARY!!!!!
I had the opportunity to see gary several times in little south texas honky-tonks. Gary’s music will live on for generations to come.
We’ll miss ya Little Junior.
Gary will never be gone from us he lives in my heart, his music…there’s no replacement for it; so he’ll be here for ever
i didnt get into gary till about very late 04, but when i heard those haunting very true lyrics it touched me, he was one of te best. I will always listen to his music cause it is so beautiful. I only wish that i could have seen him, but at least i still have the music to listen to. His lyrics are so powerful. may god rest his soul.
I had the extreme pleasure of being Gary’s bass player from 1977-1996. In 1982, my brother Russ joined the band. I could fill several books on the good and bad stories that we shared. One thing is for sure, I never regreted working and playing with Gary Stewart. The memories will live with me forever. To those who care, I am still playing six nights a week with my brother, Russ. Shannon, my number is still the same, I would love to hear from you.
Gary was introduced to me as I turned 19 in 84, dating a cowboy Skunk Bass, they were personal friends, as well as Clay Overstreet. Clay spent the weekend before Gary died. The one memory I do have meeting him was in 1993, he and his wife came to Shuls Rodeo and sang for the community. My best friend Robin and myself along with Clay and Debbie, Jack etc…went to pick him up in a bus Florida Coach, and proceeded to play his songs, and sing for him. My sweetest thought of him was how humble and flattered he was that we knew every word to every song. I will miss him surely, and will never forget the kind soul that blessed Kissimmee, one last time.
Thanks
I loved all of Garys songs and had no idea
what a tragic end he had, until just this week, when, listening to “Whiskey Trip”, I looked him up on Google to see what he was doing now-a-days.. I couldnt believe it and am, so sorry about his pain and death…
May he rest in peace…….
A Fan Forever
Lexy Michels
I have been a fan of Gary Stewart since I believe 1974 when my musician buddy and I heard him on the radio in Canada on our way to play a gig and both agreed this guy had a great sound with “Drinkin Thing”, his music has stayed with me to the present day and he is truly one of the best “Country Blues Tonkers” ever to be exposed to the public!
I say exposed because I recall about a year later asking record stores for a copy of his albums and actually having managers in these stores not knowing who Gary Stewart was and having to actually write down his name to see if they could order it.
Then coming back a week later and being told it wasn’t available in Canada!
It seems at the time you could get the 45 RPM copies of the hits but I guess those managers never thought he’d ever catch on in Canada as very few of them had casette, LP or 8 track albums available!
So you can see there was a problem right from the beginning! I recall this situation infuriating me!
In 1988 I was lent a cassette with the song, “Drinkin’ Again”, on it and I fell in love with Gary’s music all over again and learned the chord structure and used it as a tribute in our shows, finding most people very receptive to it!
At the same time I was hearing rumors of Gary coming back on the scene with a new record deal and while I kept my ear peeled to the country stations for a new Gary Stewart debut but the radio stations in Canada as far as I could tell were silent to any Hightone Records!
I don’t know what it is with record Label promotion departments and Country radio stations, but it does seem like they run their own moral code in order for an artist to get played! The talent of the artist and taste of the fans seems secondary to the industries force of who gets stroked and who doesn’t!
They pulled it on Hank Williams tried to pull it on Elvis Presley as he moved right on out of the Country Music Genre to survive – and they definitely did pull it on Gary Stewart!
You would be surprised at just how many really good artists that should have a good music buying public and carreer get shunned and ignored out of the music business because someone has rubbed a suit the wrong way or a broadcasting executive has his judgemental nose out of joint!
It is getting worse with this pasturized , processed style radio now a days were all the stations throughout North America are sent out a top 40 List which actually comprises about 30 songs that get heavy rotation and 10 songs or less get light rotation.
It leaves very little opportunity for anyone to
to be unique or introduce a new sound or style, as if it is not complimentary to the stations mundane sound no ear will ever hear the light of day on that tune !
The radio stations stop playing artists who they feel it is time to retire, you see they are now “the man” ! They are making decisions for the artists!
They retired for example: Merle Haggard, George Jones, Willie Nelson, TG Sheperd etc….from regular rotation air-play on new songs.
The industry today is all about pretty young women and hunk fellas , who sing mom and apple pie tunes with positive lyrics and the gritty, tough side of life is mostly looked upon with disdain whether it is the truth or not and is not to be carried into a tune with too much depth or it will be dumped!
Country Music today is not for the working man it seems more like it is for the college student!
I have nothing against college students but it just doesn’t seem like a justifiable place to mirror the true realities of life from, after all true Country music is supposed to tell the truth not little white lies!
Gary Stewart’s music tells the truth, it has the ability to tell exactly how a person feels inside, it paints a picture and kicks butt, it has the originality of what a true artist’s ability is supposed to be, “the gift of being able to reach in and touch the human heart, whether politically correct or not”!
That is why I believe Gary Stewart was left along the borders of the industry so often like Vern Gosdin as well, I believe there was some jealousy involved and the truth be known, they truly didn’t fit with todays inside entertainers, Gary Stewart and Vern Gosdin were truly artists!
It is no wonder that radio has less and less listening audience!
Just letting ya know I enjoyed reading this whole blog, Im covering “Empty Glass” on my debut album that will be out in Oct. would like feedback on this if cool, Gary is one that cant be ever be topped, so just doing it to continue a legacy of what is probably the best song ever written…
-Tx Pimp
Not a tribute but like to to find the cd (not the one from Billy Bob’s) that has the song an “Empty Glass” if any one can
I have been a fan of Gary Stewart’s since I don’t know when!My mother,father,& uncle lived in Ft.Pierce when Gary was playing the clubs down there.He & my uncle from what I am told used to do some singing together.Gary was way ahead of his time & he will ALWAYS be the greatest honky tonk singer of all time!
I love you Gary & know that you are with Lou now.
Im only 31, but the songs and the voice are embedded in me from the times when i was a kid hearing my parents play his songs. He sang to my grandmother in houston many years ago. I grew up loving classic country music, and Gary, you had some greats!
I am sitting here listing to him now! Wish he was here! Love Him Alway’s Jo from: BUNA, TEXAS
It’s amazing how Gary’s fans are still posting comments to this site — and it’s been almost three years since his death. Just shows the loyalty that remains without any new music or appearances. Gary had some pretty wonderful fans and remains in all of our hearts. I’m sure he’s looking down with pride.
I was just stopping in to see if people still remember like me, and I’m glad to see they still do, you are the best Gary!
Dak Alley
A legendary singer,what a loss to the music profession! Our local country radio station, WCJC, Marion Indiana, still plays Garys music.I request it regularly. All GARY STEWART fans, please call your local radio stations and request his music.We can make a difference,if enough fans become vocal enough,we can make Nashville listen. J. Gunter
I fell in love in the 70’s, the first album (LP) I bought was “Steppin Out” in 1976, still have it, also have “LP’s”; Your Place or Mine/1977, Little Junior/1978, “Gary”/1979, Cactus and a Rose/1980, Greatest Hits/1981 and Brotherly Love with Dean Dillon in 1982. These are all still in good condition despite being played to death, but of course I had every 8 track till they died and then still have every cassette and now many cd’s, I have loved this guy for a long time and over the years have turned so many people on to him. Saw him many times in person in the 70’s and 80’s and even thru his “no show” Stewart days, thru the nineties and the last time at Billy Bob’s in ’96, saw him at Top Rail and a country club in Dallas off 75 and Lovers and can’t remember the name, Desperadoes I think, anyway, he came and sat at our table and we bought him drinks and was the most down to earth likable person in the world. Who else comes to mind when you think of that vibrating voice, that vibrato? Who else has ever been able to even compare and Yes, I was pissed when they left him out of CMTs “Greatest Drinking Songs”, who was running that show, he should have placed 8 or ten times, at least. I know he probably didn’t give much credence to CMT or main stream country anyway, but you have to wonder if he saw that episode and thought, KISS MY ASS!!!!!!!!! He had been with his soulmate since he was 16 and I’m sure that after all the ups and downs, all the dark and all the light, after she left, he really couldn’t go on and we all know why after hearing that haunted wail in most of his songs. They were soulmates. I too wish someone would make a movie of his life and my other love, Stevie Ray Vaughan, but there is no mainstream rock anymore and mainstream country, ha ha, barely recognized him. Just like they shunned Dwight Yoakum and Steve Earle for years, long live twang….. Anyway, I digress, we love you Little Junior and WE MISS YOU, TWANG ON….
I almost forgot, sorry to make two posts. The last time I saw Gary was at Billy Bob’s and his keyboard player was an old friend named Jeff and haven’t seen him since. If anyone knows his whereabouts, pls em: certify@sbcglobal.net – would like to catch up on Gary’s last days and see if he was still playing w/him.
gary was agood friend to me i rember when he use to come to marlow we had so must fun i love you gary and all way will gone but not forgotten love you your friend
hello everyone i just wanted to say thanks sooo much for all your support and keeping the music alive i love it i put it on in my truck and i immeditley have to drink a beer we are working on a tribute album that will be out in ayear its gonna have alot of new stuff that yaull havent herard plus some of the favs i love you all i wish i knew how to just go and put a album out myself of all the materials i have i just dont understand all the leagal stuff i finnaly had someone from nashville contact me and its in the works… thank god i have 2 songs i want to dedicate to all of you real gary stewart fans youll know when you hear them again i love you all thanks again ahannon stewart gary and lou daughter
Gary was and still is in fact the King of Honkey Tonk singers. I have had and still have many hours of pleasure listning to his works of art. I am estatic to say the least to hear of the work on a tribute album I hope all goes well and we can all have a copy soon and thanks Shannon for your consideration to his fans.I did have one request if someone could help I have been looking for lyrics to “In some room above the street” maybe someone looking here could help me.My email is lrobin8@hotmail.com thanks for any consideration and thanks to Gary Stewart for giving so much to to all the people who love his music.
Lloyd
i saw gary many times in dallas area over the years,still listen to him all the time. he was and still is the king of the honky tonks.God be with him and his family.
Gary Stewart was an awesome artist.Sadly the so-called music big-wigs don’t know an artist from a potato sack. Maybe we,the fans,should bury these big-wigs in e-mails demanding they acknowledge the greatest honky-tonker that ever lived.I think we owe it to Gary’s memory for all the music he gave us.Think about it!
What a rare talent. I will never forget Big Bertha- Big Bertha the truck drivin queen!
well well what could i say that has not already been said. just how i think he had a unique voice and style i liken him to jerry lee and jimmy swaggert. and i think of the songs he sang were not true in his life. it should be noted that his dedication to his wife must have been tremendous beyond the average persons marriage. that after she died he felt he did not want to carry on.
that has to be real love!
Went to see Gary many times at the Melody Ranch Waco Tx.He was one of the greatest of all times. There is nothing better then shining your belt buckle on the dance floor to Whiskey Trip or She’s Acting Single, or one of my all time favorites, I see the want too in your eyes. His music never grew old. We still play it today and will always play it over and over and over. I can’t believe the world of country did not honor this man he deserved more.
I played with Gary’s brother Greg from 1975 thru 1977. We had a killer band…matter of fact I am listening to a cassette made one night at Dutches Lounge in WPB florida. Tommy Swartz is singing on that tape as well! Gary was around alot in ft. pierce but we had our own thing going, I do remember the night we were playing a club in Vero Beach Florida and Gary came in and I have his voice on cassette praising the band and yelling and clapping, we had such great times back in the Rockfish, Family Affair, Fly Hornsby, Don Murphy @ Frankie and Johnnies, days!
Gary’s mom would babysit our baby girl while we played, I remember coming to pick her up at Mrs. Stewarts and our little girl was pushing a card-board box full of biddies (baby chicks), it was so sweet and so like them. She was a sweet woman.
We have great stories and memories from then. Garys family had so many tragedies. Gary was a great guy and such a good musician.
FROM A VERY CONCERNED FAN.JUST A THOUGHT, JUST AN IDEA. HELLO MY NAME IS STEVE HORTON I POSTED A TRIBUTE ON DECEMBER 17 2005.MY DAD WORKED WITH GARY AT GRUMMAN IN STUART FL BACK IN THE SEVENTYS. I LIVE IN PORT ST LUCIE AND I WORK AT THE ST LUCIE DRAFT HOUSE BEEN THERE 10 YEARS.I AM A SERIOUS FAN OF GARY STEWART.I FIGHT CRIME IN FORT PIERCE EVERY WEEK I AM THE CHAPTER LEADER FOR THE GUARDIAN ANGELS AND ONE OF MY ANGELS LIVES DOWN THE STREET FROM THE GARY STEWART RESIDENCE I PASS BY THE HOUSE ALL THE TIME. FROM TIME TO TIME I GET ON YOUR WEB SITE AND READ THE TRIBUTES. I SEE THAT A LOT OF FANS SAY THAT GARY DID NOT GET THE POPULARITY HE DESERVED AND I AGREE.HE TRULY WAS THE BEST AND DESERVES BETTER.MY THEORY IS THAT IT IS NEVER TO LATE.WHY DONT WE GET TOGETHER, THE FANS, THE FAMOUS PEOPLE HE PREFORMED WITH SUCH AS CHARLEY PRIDE ALL THE TV SHOWS, RADIO INTERVIEWS ETC.HIGHLITES OF THE VIDEOS INTERVIEW THE FANS AND PUT TOGETHER A TRIBUTE THAT GARY VERY WELL DESERVES.AND DEMAND THAT CMT AND ALL OF THE OTHER COUNTRY NETWORKS PUT IT ON THE AIR. I WILL WITH OUT A DOUBT DO MY PART AND DONATE MY TIME AND MONEY WHERE NEEDED. JUST AN IDEA…..I AM GOOD WITH A VIDEO CAMERA. WHAT DO YOU THINK. YOU DONT HAVE TO POST THIS LETTER ON THE WEB SITE BUT I SURE WOULD LIKE TO HERE FROM SOMEONE IN THE GARY STEWART FAMILY. I AM SURE THERE A LOT OF FAMOUS COUNTRY ARTISTS AND TONS OF FANS WOULD LIKE TO DO A TRIBUTE. THANK YOU VERY MUCH.
STEVE HORTON
152 SW MILBURN CIRCLE
PORT ST LUCIE FL 34953
CELL 772-224-0706
steve are you any relation to Buddy Horton?
Nice to read the posts here from Wayne and Shannon, as well as everyone else. I posted a couple of times above somewhere. Just wanted to say I think about you all, Gary, and Lou very often. I check this thread at times when I do. The road still goes on……
Boogie Bob
Hello Bob: Do you know where Greg is? Also Janice has some pictures i.e. rockfish 8×10 glossy and pictures of Fly and Polly’s wedding.
If you want to see them.
I AM A 26 YEAR OLD WHO ADORES GARY STEWART’S MUSIC. ALOT OF MY FRIENDS PICK ON ME ABOUT IT BUT I DON’T CARE. I LISTENED TO HIS MUSIC ALL OF THE TIME. I WAS ABLE TO SEE HIM AT BILLY BOB’S WHEN HE RECORDED HIS LAST ALBUM. IT IS SUCH AN HONOR TO BE PART OF THAT SPECIAL TIME. HE IS TRULY MISSED IN TEXAS!!!
Howdy Ya’ll, I posted a memorial back when we lost Gary. This just to let any of Gary’s fans who haven’t seen a show on George Strait’s tour this year, George does a tribute to Gary(at least he did in Greensboro, NC) after the show’s over and the lights come on, ONE song plays on the house P.A……”Empty Glass”. I know George and his folks had to have something to do with it, ’cause the show promoters and the ‘bubblegum country’ radio stations around here don’t know anything about ‘Empty Glass’. Keeping Gary’s Memory Alive, Marc Shope, Raleigh, NC
Gary Stewart’s Lives on, I had the pleasure of knowing this great talented musician. My Brother’s were his road band, The Toman Brothers, I am Proud to say Randy and Russ Toman are my brothers.. I am very proud Of my two very talented brothers. The Toman Brothers just Celebrated 25 years together. What A Great Celebration!
Too Bad the Country Music Industry never Gave Gary Stewart the Recognition he so deeply deserved.
Hey Wayne! How have you been? I’d love to see any old pictures of Rockfish. Fly calls me all the time from Kansas City. He is about to retire.
Do you still have my email?
No we don’t have your mail address, so if you want to post it we will send you scanned pictures of what we have. need to catch up!
I’ve been married 18 years to a wonderful woman I met at a honky tonk. The first time I met her and asked her to dance, was to a Gary Stewart song. My wife and I love to two step and our favorite songs to dance to are all Gary’s. We’ve been to a couple of his shows. The last show we saw him at, I wanted an autograph, so after the show we went up to the table where Gary was sitting.
I remember it being so very hot in that club and thinking how tired and anxious Gary must be to go ahead and get going. That isn’t the impression I left with. Gary was so gracious and nice to us. He not only signed all the stuff we wanted, he kept starting up conversations, asking where we were from etc… He was not just there for the money, he loved doing those intimate shows and loved his fans. If only all artists were that nice and considerate.
Thank you Gary for the continuing memories my wife and I will always have.
Can’t believe how the years go by and soooo many continue to think of Gary and his family.
Hey to Boogie Bob. I still keep up with Grandal and Candy. Paris Ky. people miss Terry and his Florida friends.
I am interested in looking into book/movie ideas and would love to talk to anyone who is also interested.
I still play the albums and dance around the house while singing the songs.
Kentucky Carol
So here I am floating down the Santa Fe River and I hear Gary Stewart singing in the wind. I about fell off my float. At first I thought it must be the Lord Calvert but I rounded the bend and there were some ladies on the bank of the river playing one of Gary’s CD’s. I am so proud to say I met the man and he played to a one person audience… ME.
Thanks for the memories Gary
You will always be missed and loved
Amy
Believe it or not…
4 years after his death, this is the first I have heard of it. My God, Gary, I hope you are at peace now. You had a beautiful voice and I am saddened for our loss.
BTW “KA CHING” isn’t the true Nashville Sound. It was voices like Gary’s that made the sound ring true. Here’s to Waylon,Buck,Hank,Don,Johnny, and countless others that we love because they loved us.
God, I miss ya’ll
Hey Kentucky Carol!! My gosh, great to see your post here. “I think about Paris when I’m high on red wine!” Love to see ya’ll again.
Sure do miss those days.
Wayne, I don’t want to post my email here. I might still have yours. I’ll go back through and look. Look forward to talking.
Hey Wayne, or anyone else who wants to contact me, here is a valid email address. I would love to hear from you all, and especially Shannon. In fact Shannon, I plan on coming home to see you as soon as I can get away. I have been trying to for a long time and I hope to be able to get down there in the next couple of months. It isn’t easy to get away from my job. I think about you a lot, and hope you are okay. I hope you know that if there is ever anything I can do, I am here. Now you can contact me if there is. Email address: boogieboybob@hotmail.com
Love ya’ll!!!!!
Also, It is not only hard to get away from my job, I still play music almost every weekend……after all there years……
Hello everybody,
My name is Colton Brown and I’d like to start by saying that Gary Stewart is my favorite country artist EVER. I met him personally thru my father Avant Brown when I was just a very young boy. My father was a semi-pro musician who played music in/around our area near Lake Okeechobee in Florida. Growing up my life steered me into what some people here might see as inappropiate behavior and such, and I got into the HipHop/Rap music scene. I started producing Rap music myself around the age of 16. Around 2003-2004 I started getting back into all types of music again and pulled out some Home videos we had of my Dad and Gary performing together. It inspired me to use one of Gary’s songs “An Empty Glass” as a base for a rap-country crossover song. Now before anybody says that its disrespectful or anything you should listen to the song and what it is talking about. You can hear it at http://WWW.MYSPACE.COM/COLTONBROWN1
—THIS PART IS TO SHANNON STEWART—
I think you may have heard this song thru Jimmy Smith. He gave me your phone number and said I was to get in contact with you but I have misplaced it. Please if you read this or if anyone here knows how to contact Shannon then please contact me @ bombsquadbeats@yahoo.com
I didnt know who Gary Stewart was until i heard drinkin thing in a little ft. pierce bar then there it was the way he did it was like no other honky tonkin thing i ever heard i maybe young but i take my hat off to gary for what he accomplished
THIS IS TO WAYNE…… POSTED JAN 21 2007
NO I CANT SAY I KNOW A BUDDY HORTON, I HAVE A BROTHER ALLEN WHO LIVES IN OHIO. YOUR NOT THE FIRST TO ASK ME THAT QUESTION.
how are you doing shannon stewart
I GREW UP IN FT.PIERCE,FLA.AND KNEW GARY THRU A VAST NUMBER OF FRIENDS NOT TO MENTION HIS SISTER’S GAIL & GRIZELDA…& ONE CORRECTION FROM AN ABOVE ENTRY…GARY’S SIBLINGS NAMES ALL STARTED WITH A “G ” I SAW HIM @ EVERY SHOW HE PLAYED @ THE FLYING BRIDGE,& AT FRANKIE & JOHNNIE’S ..GARY & GREG ALLMAN WALKED IN LATE ONE NIGHT & PLAYED WITH THE ABERDEEN ROCKFISH RAILROAD ,ARCHIE’S ON SOUTH BEACH ,THE SPECKLED PERCH IN THE GREAT CITY OF OKEECHOBEE,FLA.,AND THE LAST AUDIENCE HE PLAYED FOR WAS AT THE LAST GOOD BAR IN FT.PIERCE “PINEAPPLE JOE’S” ON NORTH US # 1,THE WEEK BEFORE HE DIED….I SAT THERE AND WATCHED HIM PLAY WITH THE BAND “MOONSHADOW” STEVE CHANDLER,LARRY CHAPMAN,DAVID WILLIAM’S,THE BASS PLAYER …I CAN’T REMEBER HIS NAME AND BILL SMITH GARY WAS SOMETHING ELSE ! HE TURNED ME & MY BEST BUDDY RONNIE CHURCH ON TO JOHN PRINE,JERRY JEFF WALKER,GUY CLARK,RAY WYLIE HUBBARD,STEVE YOUNG …YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN MY FRIEND ! I LISTEN TO YOU OFTEN.OKEECHOBEE PURPLE,SHADY STREETS-SHINEY SHOES,WHISKEY TRIP ON MY BROTHER…….DAVID SORENSEN NOW IN WTR.SPRINGS,FLA.
In reference to the post directly above by David Sorensen: Moonshadow’s bass player is Steve Hansen. On the night Gary sat in, Tommy Schwartz was with him, and he sat in on bass with Gary. I wasn’t there, but Steve Chandler sent me the DVD of that event. Chandler and I were best friends all through school and played in our first band together, The Sandtrippers. Now that was way back.
It’s hard to place you after all these years, but your name sounds VERY familiar. I played with Gary at Frasnkie & Johnnie’s, Ft. Pierce Hotel, the cancer benefit at Archie’s, Flying Bridge, and a lot of other local places, as well as all over the country. I was in the Phoenix, Rockfish Railroad, and Train Robbery when Gary played with those bands.
Gary was an incredible entertainer. The most incredible I ever had the honor of working with. He will certainly live forever in everyone’s memory who ever saw him, especially in his heyday.
I remember in 1996 I was in a small blues bar in Fort Worth,Texas. There was a guy on stage singing, there might have been maybe thirty people in the place. I was standing at the bar leaned over to a lady and said “that looks and sounds like Gary Stewart”. She said “it is”. It just so happened that the young lady was with Mr. Stewart she ended up introducing me to him. It was just like meeting an old friend we sat together at a table, had a couple of beers. Before he left that night he ended up signing the back of my T-shirt. I still have it to this day and I’ll never forget that night. He was a great singer.
I’ve been a country fan since birth (I’m 27) and had loved “She’s Actin Single” for years but only just recently discovered some more of Gary’s work. Man, what a talent! I wish I had discovered these songs years ago. Gary’s been getting me through a tough time here lately with Drinkin thing and “An Empy Glass.” God rest his soul, this man should be in the Country Music Hall of Fame.
If there were (or had been) more people like Gary there would have been less people Like Eddie Kilroy……
I knew Gary very well, Still good friends with
some of his band members. Gary Stewart was and will always be a amazing person and singer. He had a heart of gold. I remember the day of his death, one of his band members called my house and told my husband and I of his death. Gary so loved his wife,who passed just a month or two before him. Loulou was a great woman to love a music man as Gary. Gary lost the women he so loved and couldn’t go on without her. I hope they meet in heaven and are having a honky tonkin time.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his Daughter.
I will always be Gary Stewarts numder one fan.
I grew up and still in Okeechobee and Fort Pierce. I hung out in Franky and Johnies alot in my youth. My Dad was hanging out there before I was. I listend to gary’s music then and still keep a gary cd in my cd player at all times.gary is still played on most of the juke boxes around okeechobee and it’s good to see alot of the kids around here playing his cd’s. His music is still popular in this area. I am glad to here xm radio playing him as well. If your lucky enough to find one of his cd’s you had better by because they disapear fast around here. thanks Gary for all of Your good Music, you’re my favorate.
I travel alot here in Texas. Whenever I stumble into a Honky Tonk, I go to the jukebox and see if it has any Gary Stewart songs. If it does, I’ll sit in there a while; if not, I’m out the door.
like most of y’all i first heard gs in the early/mid 70’s. never got to see him but could always feel alot of energy in his work. always wondered what happened to him and just now heard about his passing. With all the so called ‘country’ music performers being clones of Alabama/Garth/Reba, we won’t see another like him. that makes it all the sadder.
Today is the first day of my two week vacation. I started out by turning on CMT Classic Country and just heard about the death of Gary Stewart back in 2003; “Oh my God”, I can’t believe the news. I immediately jumped on the internet to find the rest of the story; I am so sorry for his family’s loss of two wonderful people who loved one another so deeply. They were soul mates here on earth and now in heaven, rest in peace together. I first heard Gary Steward’s music, back in 1993 and have been a faithful fan, from day one. His music just took hold of you, by closing your eyes and feeling the beat in the lyrics brough out the beauty within you.
My Girl friends and I would meet up with other guy friends at the Indian Rodeo’s in Arizona and Gary Stewart’s CD would be playing all through the night. Hearing one of his songs, takes you back to those good times with friends and love ones.
Gary Stewart is considered number one and his music will live on with us here in Taylor, San Carlos, Dilkon, Page, Keams Canyon, Leupp, White River, and Phoenix, Arizona the home of the “Esquire and Ponderosa Lounge” that played his music to us all.
I was first introduced to Gary’s music by my bastard father. “Your Place or Mine” is the greatest hook-up song of all time. Whenever I meet someone who claims to know country music, I throw out- do you know Gary Stewart or Billy Joe Shaver? That question usually does it for their credibility. Gary- may you live forever!!!
I have loved Gary`s music since the first day it was played on the radio. My son, who is 35, heard me playing his music all the time when he was growing up. Then, the same year that he killed himself, my son and my husband drove from Cincinnat to Billy Bob`s to watch him perform. My son was on the edge of his seat the whole show! He was also a great guitar player. Loved his style!!! Nobody…and I mean NOBODY touches Gary`s style. IT WAS HIS!!!!!!!!!!!
R.I.P. Gary..we miss you man!
I grew up in Dallas, catching a glimpse of Mr. Stewart at Cowboys every now and again. Several years later on a Delta flight from DFW to PBI, I sat next to a wirey fella, who just couldn’t seem to get comfortable. He kept complaining about his back and just wanted to get to the back of the plane to get more comfortable. He seemed friendly and a bit eccentric, but he just couldn’t sit still. I tried to help him relax, but he just wanted to move around. When he finally left, and went to the back, the woman on the other side of me said, that man sure was a handful, he said he was a country sanger, named Gary something. Then it hit me like a lawnmower running over a brick, it was Gary Stewart. I immediately thought, heck, that was an idol of mine and I never even knew it. You know, you always say to yourself, I bet I could spend some time with a guy like that, and it’s true, I did get that friendly feeling before he headed for the rear of the plane. Later as we all got off the plane I asked Gary if he needed a lift to Fort Pierce, as I as going there too, he said no and said thanks for the offer. I said I really like your music and he was a little set back, looking at my young face ( I look about 25 yrs old) I rattled off about a half dozen hits, and I swear I saw a twinkle in his dark eyes, I know I’m not the profile of his typical fan, but that music really hits me deep, I feel it. He dug around in his carry on bag and said I wish a had a cd for you. I said don’t worry, Iv’e got most all of them anyway. I said take care and it was nice to meet you, he said you too. I wore a sh*t eattin grin for the rest of the day. I felt a deep cut the morning I heard he was gone, what are the odds of a guy like me from Dallas, moving to Fort Pierce, and not knowing Gary ever lived there, but really felling his songs, and later meeting the man going home. Fate is a powerful force, I doubt he remembered me, but I sure get a warm feeling when I think about the man, I still meet folks in some bars out on South Island or up towards Melbourne when I play some Gary Stewart on the jukebox, fans just seem to come out of nowhere, kinda like the old man himself.
Godspeed Gary, I’ll see ya when I get on up there with ya
-LT
I only recently discovered Gary. But I can tell you, I love the man. What an interesting, talented, tragic figure. Makes you wish you could have met him and helped him in some small way. It breaks my heart that his wonderful voice is gone. Gary, I wish I could have known you. I hope you have found peace. God bless your family.
I grew up in Ft. Pierce, Fla. moving there in 1962 at the age of 10. I remember Gary’s song (I love you truly being played on the local radio station). Definitely a distinct voice. He even worked at the same place that I do now (Piper Aircraft, Vero Beach, Fla., for a short time. Our paths would cross later, around 1977, when I was asked to play drums in his backup band The Aberdeen Rockfish Railroad. Although he seldom showed up for some local gigs, when he did it was electric! The band was kick ass with or without him. Although the band disbanded in early 1978, I would occasionally do a gig with him. I was at the Ft, Pierce Hotel playing with the band the night his sister Grezalda took her life. She had been in the club that night and seemed very disturbed. It was very sad. The last time I saw him was at a Moose club around 1999-2000. His band was hired for a wedding reception and his drummer (his brother) was very late getting there. So I sat in for a couple sets until he arrived. The magic was still there. He was very sober and sounded great.
Thats my story about Gary Stewart. I was very sad to hear of his passing. He touched many peoples lives one of which was mine. God bless.
Its getting close to that time of year again “LIL Junior”, Miss you and LOU and Joey,thanks for all the good times and the hospitality you all showed me,still got the buckle, and ring you gave me.Play them Cds every time the ignition switch is on.Bet u and Hank got a mean version of HONKY TONKIN worked out , hope to get to hear it someday Happy Thanksgiving , Tuck
Hey Boogie, How come i never hear from you anymore, T-Ray, and i are still alive and kickin.Gimme a yell you should still have my E address.
I was 12, never did I miss a dirt track stock car race. If Daddy was unable to make our weekly Saturday night date at the race track (either Jax Pecan Park or Volusia Cty Speedways)I would talk my cousin into taking me. Gena was the one who introduced me to “Gary Stewart”. That was 32 years ago. I had the fortune to see my man live, on stage, in person 3 glorious times. The 2nd time was in Dallas (June 1989)was purely my good luck to be in the right place-right time.
I was able to get to finally talk to my man all night–he was convinced I loved him- I had all his music on cassette he had ever recorded with me. I was passing thru Dallas. I have a tee-shirt he gave me-neon circles around his name. He insisted our night was on him-even though my date felt bad about letting him pay for “us”. Any song I requested, he would play…Sweet Country Red, Quits–It was truly the single most funnest night of my life. (to date) I heard he had left this world – even though I didn’t believe it and refused to confirm it until a year later. I will always be and stay his No# 1 fan–(He said I could very well be just that) on that June night in 1989. I LOVE YOU GARY– Your Florida Girl Forever—-
Gary Stewart was the greatest singer who ever lived,he had that twang in his voice that you didnt forget.He had a way with that guitar that was outa this world.I will always be a fan,his music is all i listen to.
Gary and I was from the same area of Eastern Kentucky and he was and is by far the best country-honky tonk singer of all time–miss ya’ Gary.
I appreciated Gary Stewart the older I got because of his distinct voice. My brother also played with the Aberdeen Rockfish Railroad and Easy People. Gary also recorded one of his songs, Seeing is Believing. I am disappointed in our community that they only played his songs a couple of days after his passing. Why don’t they play them all the time? Everytime I hear my brother sing his song, An empty glass, I know he sings it as a tribute and feels it in his bones. Sometimes I think it’s hard for him to get through it.Gary had such an impact in his life.Keep Gary’s memory alive. He truly had a God given talent. Laura in Vero
I WAS RAISED UP WITH GARY STEWARTS KIDS. WE WENT TO SCHOOL TOGETHER. WE ALSO WERE RAISED UP IN THE SAME NEIGHBOR HOOD. I KNEW HIM VERY WELL. HE WAS ONE OF THE GREATEST COUNTRY SINGERS. I WAS ALSO HIS NEIGHTBOR. MY MAIDED NAME WAS WHEELER.
Hey Tuck and also Laura…. I hven’t been here in a while, but I try to check in whenever I’m havin’ a “Missin’ Gary Day”. I have had quite a few lately, but haven’t been able to make it by. I have been pretty much under the weather for the last three months or so. They thought I had lung cancer, but after taking a big plug out of my right lung, they aren’t so sure. May just be double pheneumonia. Whatever, I sure do I have a sore lung though. I’ll email you Tuck. I need to talk to you anyway. Adios for now guys.
Boogie still got the same e address as before, tuxter1947@yahoo.com,Gimme a yell, BTW what ever happened to Darrel? One of the best bass players I ever heard and had that magic twinkle in his eye that drove the ladies wild.
I had a dream about a month ago, dreamed that David Allen Cole, had a tribute song to Gary, made me have a Missin Gary Day also.Gotta run , will be looking to hear back from ya.Hope the lung thing gets better, u will be in my prayers,. Tuck
I MET GARY STEWART IN THE 70’S AT THE MELODY RANCH IN WACO, TEXAS.I LEARNED HOW TO DANCE TO HIS MUSIC. I QUIT MY JOB JUST TO SEE HIM THAT NIGHT. HAD MY PICTURE TAKEN WITH HIM & HE AUTOGRAPHED ON THE BACK, “KEEP ON WORKING” I WILL NEVER FORGET THAT. I LOVED HIS MUSIC THEN & ALWAYS WILL. I DON’T TAKE THOSE WHISKEY TRIPS ANYMORE, BUT I DON’T NEED THEM WHEN I HAVE HIS MUSIC. HERE’S TO YOU UP THERE DUDE.
I MET GARY STEWART IN THE 70’S AT THE MELODY RANCH IN WACO, TEXAS.I LEARNED HOW TO DANCE TO HIS MUSIC. I QUIT MY JOB JUST TO SEE HIM THAT NIGHT. HAD MY PICTURE TAKEN WITH HIM & HE AUTOGRAPHED ON THE BACK, “KEEP ON WORKING” I WILL NEVER FORGET THAT. I LOVED HIS MUSIC THEN & ALWAYS WILL. I DON’T TAKE THOSE WHISKEY TRIPS ANYMORE, BUT I DON’T NEED THEM WHEN I HAVE HIS MUSIC. HERE’S TO YOU UP THERE DUDE.
Boogie Bob just catching up on this board and it has been months since we have looked at it. Sure hope you are feeling better. We have been looking on the net for Greg Stewart, do you know what happened to him or where he is? We have found so many people we have played music with, but not been able to find him. Take care, I may try your e-mail address you have posted here as well.
thanks
wayne
I was first introduced to Gary Stewart back in the mid 70’s by my buddy, Bob Rosebush, from Houston, TX. I happened to be from Lakeland, Florida, and found out that Stewart was from Ft.Pierce, FL. I loved his music and honky-tonk style, which mixed Rock & Roll with real Country. He projected tremendous feeling in his songs, and you could tell he had lived some of the experiences. As a song writer and singer, nothing beats having been there, to really express what a song needs. I liked everything he did, but especially the “She’s acting single, and I’m drinking doubles.” He was just a great singer and natural performer. I want to also compliment his band members who were also a very vital part of his overall success. Kudos to those guys as well. We really miss you Gary, and you should know you made a lot of your fans very happy, and you still do to this day. Rest in Peace. God Bless you and your wife.
Hey Tuck and Wayne, Well, they determined that I am not eat up with lung cancer. Just some kind of fungus they are knocking out with some real strong antibiotics. What a relief. Anyway, Tuck, glad you included your email. My computer crashed about two weeks ago and I lost my address book along with everything else. Darrell or “Rainbow” is living in Lake worth with his fourth wife. Lots of kids. He doesn’t play anymore. He works for a big wholesale music equipment company. He’s doing good. I stay in touch with him and see him when I can. He has put on a few pounds. LOL.
Wayne, good to hear from you. I haven’t sen Greg in a long time. I was in Pierce about six months ago and didn’t run into him. I have to go back down there pretty soon and I’ll see if I can run him down. The best email address to reach me at these days is melton.bob@gmail.com. Hope to hear from you. God Bless all you folks!
I just wanted to set one record straight here that I have seen a lot of reference to lately. When we were on the road as Train Robbery, (starting in early 1979) we hired an extra guitar picker from Kentucky. That gave us, including Gary, three lead pickers. Myself included as the third, and sometimes even four when our fiddle/mandolin picker joined in. It was HOTTTTTT!!!!!!!
It gave us the ability to be pretty wild and raucous. Especially with Allman Brothers type stuff. Which we took advantage of. Especially in our sets before Gary came onstage, but maybe more when he was with us.
Anyway, with all that heavy guitar power taking over those Texas Honky Tonks, they weren’t ready for it. It was like someone bombed the place. they were shellshocked! When it was all over, they didn’t know what hit them. So it gave me the idea to subversively call us The Honky Tonk Liberation Army. Because that was really what we were, and we left them dead on the floor. LOL. Well anyway, Gary loved the name, as we all did. and we went by that until the end, even though we were billed everywhere by RCA as Train Robbery. It has now been the cult name for those two bands for a long, long time. Just anothe page from that great past era…..
IN FACT, believe it or not, we were banned from Willie Nelson’s club in Roundrock, Texas for being too loud and rowdy!!!!!!!!!!! That is the gospel truth! That was not the only place that happened, but it was a great tribute to The Honky Tonk Liberation Army. LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
gary stewart is #1 and all ways will be to me i did get to see gary in a little honky tonk at pikeville ky. marlows country palace i love and miss gary very much i have about every song he had every song but most of all i got picture of me and gary togather love and miss you gary……lorri layne pikeville ky
I never got to meet Gary but I have always heard a lot about him. My Uncle Avant who used to play in the band with Gary talks about how great of a singer he was and how talented he was. I will always see him as the best country music artist there ever was. Wayne Lakeport FL
“Out Of Hand” & “Steppin’ Out”…I had the vinyl at the apartment, and wore out both eight track copies in my car stereo. It was 1976 and I was a softball junkie. I was young, free, full of life, and was addicted to every song on those albums.
I hadn’t heard of Gary’s death until I was surfing memory lane on my computer today…I can’t discribe the flood of memories I have just experienced. The music world and the ears and hearts of many, have lost a true “champion” of Country Music. If we just had Ronnie Reagan back in the White House, and Gary Stewart on our radio’s, we’ld bring honesty back in vogue…After all, “If you can see yourself with nothin’ on, then you’ve got nothing left to hide”.
Miss ya, Gary… and thanks for leaving an impression for me to hold on to…
Happy Easter LIL Junior, Easter in Heaven with Lou and Joey must be wonderful, we all still listen to u daily and miss ya, Tuck
Gary is/was my 2nd cousin , times going up to his house threw my childhood and seeing him and Joey and last time seeing Gary at my grandmothers funeral which seemed like maybe after 2000 something ? Anyway I miss gary and joey ! Gary and my dad ( 1st cousins ) Roger , were close and together alot ! I still love my cousins music and it’s jammin and so country like today ….. Thank’s , Betty Lou ox ( a double loss there …)
He had incredible talent, but misused it. Thanks to him, and the other low-life type honkey tonkers, I, as a teenager, thought the future was one of drunkenness and hopelessness. This is his legacy.
its not Gary Stewarts fault u thought life was about drunkenness and hopelessness. you are a dumbass for comin on here talkin shit! Gary Stewart was a wonderful artist and songwriter.
I just discovered Gary Stewart. Love his music and voice.
It’s ironic that I live in Ft.
Pierce where he grew up and never
listened to his music.
I Loved to hear Gary Stewart sing. He was a,
“Good Ole Country Boy”!
I really hated it, about his, Suicide. Does anyone know, the problems that led up to his Death ?
I’m not morbid, or anything like that, I just don’t re-call hearing anything about problems he was having, that would have caused him, to do this. He will be greatly missed !!!
The seventys were a particulary difficult time for me personally. I lost a child and a marrage. Gary saw me through those rough times. He was to me the absolute best in the country music field. I truley regret the establishment in the business and the media never gave Gary the recognition he so richly deserved. As a home grown sothern man I know how great he was. May God bless his family and friends. You are all so blessed to have known such a special man.
GARY AND FAMILY THANKS FOR BEING OUT AT CHINLE COMM. CENTER AT TIME…SHADY STEETS..RUNNING WIDE
gary truly was the best and rowdiest honky tonker ever. he had an unmistakable voice that reached out and grabbed you by the heart. gary helped kill millions of bottles of whiskey throughout his life. and still millions more following his death. he is the greatest and will always be missed in westville, ok.
I just googled Gary’s name today to see what I would find. I read all the tributes and it is so interesting to see Gary through different sets of eyes. Gary Stewart will always remain the King of the Honky Tonks…there is no doubt about it. For those who think he did not get the respect he deserved, I disagree. Years after his death we are still listening to Gary, telling funny stories, lamenting on his drug/alcohol addition, etc. To me, Gary was a friend. I had never dreamed that when I listened to Gary as a teenager, drinking beer with my friends, I would grow up and Gary would become a part of my life and someone I would truly call “friend”. I truly believe that Gary will live on long after most of the “new country” singers. His talent was amazing. His life interesting and..sometimes tragic…but he was special. He will always be special to those who knew him and even those who might think they do just by listening to him sing. The Gary I knew would never sit around and grumble about the fame he didn’t have..the only reason he didn’t have it was because he didn’t want it. He never changed..he never gave in. He stayed true to Gary Stewart no matter how eccentric that could be sometimes. I will never forget New Years Eve 2000 at Red River in Dallas…Gary was so proud of his $6.00 Goodwill suit…that was Gary ! Or on his 56th Birthday at Cowboys in Arlington when the band chipped in and we bought Gary a ring with arrowheads for good luck..he loved
it and most of all, he appreciated it. That was the Gary that I knew and the Gary I miss. I am so far removed from that life now but my eyes still tear up when a band tries to play Empty Glass in some Texas bar. The gesture is sweet but the voice will never be the same, no matter how good. Gary cannot be imitated…but he can be honored.
I’M ONE OF THE FEW PEOPLE THAT CAN SAY I KNEW GARY BEFORE HE WAS FAMOUS I WENT TO SCHOOL WITH HIM HE WOULD STAND IN THE HALL WAYS AND PLAY HIS GUITAR HE DIDN”T CARE IF HE PASSED SCHOOL OR NOT ALL HE WANTED TO BE WAS A COUNTY MUSIC STAR.ALL THE GIRLS WOULD JUST FOLLOW HIM AROUND SCHOOL AND SCREAM ALL THIS STARTED IN FORT PIERCE,FLORIDA A SMALL TOWN ON THE EAST COAST OF FLORIDA IN MY BOOK HE WAS THE BEST AND ALWAYS WILL BE
Im a black man who loves everything he ever made ,I started listening to him when i was seven years old 1977. And i still love to hear him,cause to me he is still alive,Live on Gary he is the king of Honky Tonk,i even have young so called thugs listen to his music.My brother and LOVE you Man.Heaven has a Honky Tonk Ghetto R.I.P Homeboy We Miss U.And So does West Virginia.
Hey Boogie we lost track again, on MY Space hit me up at tuxter1947@yahoo.com
I didn’t hear about Gary’s death until last summer, but there are still days I cry about it! Gary and his music got me through the 70’s,80’s,90’s, and will keep doing so for the rest of my life! I used to hang out at a little roadhouse outside of Houston in the late 70’s called,”Buckshot Flats”, and I was constantly playing, “Drinking Thing”, on the jukebox. I love you Gary!
All I can say about Gary Stewart is GREAT, GREAT GREAT. I have evey CD put out by Gary Stewart. His music was great and has got me through some hard times. Thanks Gary.
Chris
It’s Saturday nite and I would love nothing more than to go to a Gary Stewart Concert and have one more time. my glass is empty…I love you Gary! You were the king of the Honky tonk and deserved so much more recognition than you ever rec’d. I still have my shirt that you signed 🙂 Love you forever.
seen gary in brownwood tx and loved his music he will be missed
My dear Gary, I miss you every day. What a short life you had! Your music makes my every day fantastic. There will never be another honky-tonk-king! I love you and miss you.. still have the shirt, boots and hat that you signed. love you always!
I heard the news,that night,I cried,I miss him,I still love Little Junior. Here’s to 1977.
Been down in the dumps setting here listening to Willies place on XM,they just played OH Sweet Temptation, Damn LIL Junior, im feeling better already!!U always come thru for me even from UP THERE. Miss ya. Tuck
I can remember the days when my parents owned a bar in the late 70’s In Cuero Tx. I was just a kid singing wiskey trip, not really thinking about untill now. Good times. I just found a cd of Gary Stewart that reminded me of him is why I am here typing this. “Essential Gary Stewart”
I loved (still do ) this guy’s music, one of the best!
Gary was a great person he was a good friend of my father John Wayne Jones that he grew up with we will Always miss you buddy you were the best of honkey tonk nobody will ever take your place Adam Wayne
I have so many memories of hanging out at the “honky tonk bars” and listening to his music. I love it and always will. I remember everytime the bar closed they would play, “Empty Glass”. Thats when you knew it was closing time! I never got to see him live but, I wish that I would have!God Bless!
:)Tammi frm Austin, Tx
I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THE GOOD TIMES WE HAD HERE IN LAMPASAS, TX ON THE WEEKENDS. ALL WE NEEDED WAS A GARY STEWART CD AND A COOLER FULL OF BEER AND THE PARTY WAS ON. I’M ALOT OLDER NOW BUT I LIKE TO THINK BACK TO ALL THE FUN WE HAD. GARY STEWART YOUR MEMORY WILL LIVE WITH US FOREVER!
it is so nice to read all these wonderful things about gary i also believe he was the most talented singer ever i got to see him twice in small concerts he was fantastic i hope he is walking down shady streets with shiny shoes his death was so tragic he was so depressed over the death of his wife he couldnt go on i will play his music till the day i die?
Hey yall,
My name is Matthew I grew up in Austin Texas. In the early 90,s a friend of mine turned me on to Gary,I’ve been hooked ever sence. I have seen him many times in and around Austin(Coupland Dance Hall). This man saw me through a relly bad DIVORCE and also a lot of good times in LEXINGTON TX.R.I.P Mr. Honky Tonk !!!!!!!!!!!Gary + cold beer = One hella of a good time !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I was very lucky to be able to be at one of his homecoming ranch roast when I was a little kid. My Brother turned me onto Gary, our favorite to this day is Cactus and a Rose.
Sebastian, Fl
Donnie Coleman singing An empty Glass keeps Gary Alive for me. I know it would make Gary proud and I know Gary is smiling down on him every time he does it.
I bought a Gary Stewart 8 track tape in ’78 and I still have it.
I love his music. Every now and then I search the internet for something to read about him. I didn’t know that he had passed away until last year. I was shocked and saddened at his passing. I always said someday I would see him in person and now he’s gone. But I still play his music. He touched my heart.
Newfoundland and Labrador
will nashville forget the other greats like Merle, Willie,Waylon,mickyGilley,Dwight,buck Owens,Johnnie Rodreguez, The ones that paved the road for the bull shit they call country NOW.Gary Stewart is proof video ‘killed the radio star’.God rest your soul Gary.althugh your gone your music lives for ever amoung us that grew up on your great honky tonk style
To Tommy, Donnie, Felix, Bruce,Jimmy, God Love Ya! and the others at Donnie’s party. Thanks for all the Gary Stewart tunes, I know he was looking down smiling, even more so because it was an at home little jam session. Looking forward to doing it again. Awesome day! Thanks again. Laura Lee
first heard gary in the mid-70’s and was instantly
hooked. saw him 2 or 3 times at the yellow rose of
texas in yantis tx. he was great. you can still be
out drinking and someone will say put in gary.
was at a new year’s eve party 2 years ago. not many dancing in the barn we were in. had the music
man play drinkin thing, the dance floor exploded
with people. the best honky tonk singer ever.
GARY, YOU AND I HAD THE BEST TIME TOGETHER, PLAYING MUSIC. I LOVED YOU AND LU…THE TIME WITH JIMMY SMITH, AND WALLACE PARR AND ALL THE GOOD TIMES WE HAD TOGETHER. I MISS YOU GARY, AND I AM TAKING ME A WHISKEY TRIP TONIGHT…TJ
I met Gary in 1987 and played with him a few times over the next few years. I was friends with his son Joey a few years before that. I can’t put into words how nice it is to read all these great comments. I have put up a website in Gary’s honor. The address is: http://www.kingofthehonkytonks.com
If anyone has anything they’d like to contribute, I’d be very appreciative. I can be emailed from the website. I still listen to Gary 3-4 times a week and I am really surprised how much he is growing on me even though I have played many of these songs live with Gary and the Easy People Band, Tommy Schwartz, Swamp Fever, etc… Whiskey Trip is still my favorite!
i aint seen u for real but i love your music u rock and we will always remember you
Why is it that the world is still so intrigued by Gary Stewart and his brilliant music? We so miss such a local legend here on the East Coast of Florida. It feels as if he is still here watching over his territory and we still love his mesmerizing music. Nashville lost a great singer songwriter and musician and you truly deserve to be acknowledged and placed in the Country Music Hall of Frame.
I love the music….I remember 1978 driving around Flint, Mi in my LTD 2 with quad stereo singing drinkin thing even though I don’t drink….Anyway it’s very sad how his story ended….thank God for the CD’s. Thanks Mr. Stewart!!!!
Thank Goodness for Donnie Coleman, Easy People Band member, Who makes Gary smile from above every time he sings an empty glass. Keep tuned in for upcoming videos.
It has been five years since I learned of the death of Mr. Gary Stewart and it still saddens me that he was not paid greater tribute and did not receive more recognition. I saw him perform several times and, in my eyes, he was fantastic. He was friendly and often sat at our table during breaks. The last time I saw him was in a Florida airport in 1987. I began listening to his music during the ’70s and listen to it still. It was nice to read all the other tributes and hear others say the things I have thought. Thanks for the music, Gary, thanks for the music. DanaLee
There will never be anyone as great as he was. First time I saw him was Princeton Texas at the Wagon wheel Ball Room.His music will live on for ever.
Well Little Junior it was 5 years ago today that you left this world & I just felt as if I needed to come back and post again on this site as I have been thinking a lot about you today.You are still my favorite singer of all time and you always will be.I will never,ever forget you and thanks so very much for the music because with it you shall live on forever!!!!
Hey , All you Texans out there!!! How about a Gary Stewart Tribute party in Texas!?
By the time I was five, I knew every word to all of his songs. My mother used to play 8 tracks of his all the time, and for me, the pure emotion of his voice is the standard for any country music I listen to (which isn’t much, because who else could ever pack so much raw, honest pain into a song?)
I’m from Pike County, just next door, and it’s really nice to hear the unashamed twang in his voice, singing about real life. I put him on just recently, and my five year old daughter hit the floor dancing!
He is missed.
I very well remember Gary Stewart, as a matter of fact I was listening to his cd on the way home today, I saw him many times here in Waco, Texas, usually at the old Melody Ranch, which isn’t here anymore, just another honky tonk that everybody around here truly misses, he was also pretty much a regular on Saturday night at the Heart-0-Texas Fair and Rodeo here, nobody could draw a bigger crowd than Gary, his music will live on forever here in Texas, god bless him and there won’t ever be anyone who can walk in his boots!
I sure was proud to hear all the wonderful things about Gary,,I played lead guitar for him when I lived in Fla.. His brother Gerald was one of my best friends and it broke my heart to find out of his death, He was a great drummer..Gary,s mother was like a mother to me ,,She and garys sister gena would come to hear me and gerald when gary was out..All the stewert family are great people and I wish them the best.. My tribute to one of the BEST honky-tonk singers in the world,,,Miss you GARY
I had the honor of playing pianofor gary on off for about17yrs. gary was a lyrical genius. and one hell of a guitar player if you could get him alone and out of the crowd. I hauled gary thousands of miles to and from gigs and loved every second of it. I was heart broke when I got the news of garys wife lou passing on. and I knew in my heart that gary wouldnt be around much longer either. He was my friend. and I loved him dearly. to his family and people of our circle, GOD bless. jeff williams rockwall tx
nashville snub him the greatest honkey-tonk man of all time. and also the bellamy bros. have been ignored
ifirst heard gary in 1974 on escape from tennessee state prison iliked his music ever since he is missed in lenoir city tenn
How do you try to write tribute to a person like Gary Stewart? An individual with more talent,charm,empathy,consideration,generousity,and connectivity than anyone else you have ever had the good fortune to meet?
To begin, tributes and epitaphs are not for the one that has crossed over the shore, but for the living. To bring comfort and solace to the ones left behind. They are soothing sweet words to show the love and respect for the departed. To help the family realize that there is another time to meet, in another place.
A place where you will be reunited with unspeakable joy and peace. There will be no pain or tears. No reason for worry or time-tables to keep up.Simply,an eternal rest while they are waiting for you to join them.
Gary was a threat to the Nashville cummunity of singers, producers, writers and promoters that didn’t have the insight that he so deeply possessed and so boldly recorded.
A man who never met a stranger, he was deeply loved by the people around him. Even when he angered someone, it was short-lived and forgiven as quickly as it occured, with no grudges held.
As for the family, fans,and aquaintances, he left nothing but a wonderful legacy of music to move the soul. Music that exploded the radio airways like nothing else ever had and nothing else ever will. A beautiful collection of songs to stir the heart,make you laugh, make you cry and make you wonder why. Why he felt he had to leave all the people that loved him.
He couldn’t carry on, though. Not without the main reason for his creativity, Mary Lou.
Losing her was the loss of a lifetime. A void that would never be filled again by anyone or any thing on this earth. He knew that without her, he felt as if he had no support or true love in his life.
So, the voice was silenced. The heart and soul of a million fans were left in shock and inconsolable grief when we heard the annoucement on the radio.
Now, all we have are the moving recordings of Gary Stewart. It has taken since December 16, 2003 to have the courage to talk about him and the music he left behind.
He left a hole as big as Texas in our hearts that will never be replaced by any person or performer. He has been missed terribly by everyone and myself.
All we can hope for is to meet him and Lou again. Until that time, my heart will stay broken and my tears still fall.
Thank you Gary, just for being there.
I met a guy in Clarkston washington at a bar who claimed to be Gary. I thought he was full of crap. But now I’ve watched him on u tube and he looked like Gary. No kidding! I blew him but now I think Maybe.
i grew up on garys music and partyd with is bro lot gary you will be greartly missed
One of the GREATEST! you will always be missed. we all love you. ~Charm
Gary was the best singer I have ever heard. I think we all should start a protest against the radio stations for not playing his music. Country music today is a joke. I can’t stand most of it. There are no more real singers like Gary, Conway, Waylon, and Hank. Nashville needs to understand that most of us don’t like what we hear today, and country music is no more. What kind of idiots run these radio stations and Nashville? I wish Gary’s daughter all the best, and I hope she has a very good life.
well how long has it been now. still miss that beautiful voice of Gary’s. I’m not a real fan of country, either. but I could listen to him all day. Love you Gary.
For 30+ years I’ve played Gary Stewart–I bought his LPs, casettes, and CDs, and now I watch the mere handful of performances you can see on You Tube.
He’s the greatest country singer that ever there was. In addition to the many great songs that express deep pain and honky tonk rowdiness, some of his songs express wonderful tenderness
(“Shady Streets”).
When I learned about his death, I felt it as a personal loss. When I found this message board this evening, it felt good to read and join a community of people who loved Gary Stewart’s music and the man himself.
Wow, here it is April 2009 and I am just learning about Garys passing. I always wondered what happened to him. It was in the 80’s I went to a Concert in St Paul, Minnesota to see Waylon, Willie, I can’t remember. This little guy came out to “warm us up”, sat down at that piano, and all hell broke loose. Everyone in the audience was asking each other, “Who is that guy,Who is he?” The applause at the end of each song was fantastic. No one wanted him to quit.
I have loved his songs, and play his music ever sense.
I have, “The Essential” and “Gary Stewarts Greatest hits” Did he produce any other Albums with songs that arn’t duplicate to those, or has any one ever made a DVD of his life, songs?
You will always be with us Gary.
~Colin Minneapolis, Minnesota
Ya know . . it’s one of those nights. A little chilly, windy, blustery . . so I did a YouTube search for Gary’s music. And there they were, all the classics. Not that I don’t have most of Gary’s classic albums, which I do. Just too lazy to dig’em out and put one on. – But I have to be honest . . didn’t even know Gary was gone. Not ‘really’, of course, as all of us will attest, . . but it’s still a shock to read about how he went. Has me thinking of Keith Whitley and so many other country greats. Ironic . . but a fact of life. But . . genius lives on. And we’re still listenin’ to it, aren’t we . . ? ‘Dogh
GARY STEWART’S MUSIC HAS BEEN APART OF MY LIFE SINCE I WAS 17 YRS OLD.(1974) ALMOST EVERY SONG ON HIS FIRST ALBUM, I COULD RELATE TO.I MEAN REALLY RELATE TO.I MET HIM TWICE,THE FIRST TIME MYSELF AND MY MOM WENT TO SEE HIM.(IN HOUSTON AND SECOND TIME IN PASADENA)IN 1995 OR 1996. WE HAD OUR PICTURE’S MADE WITH HIS SWEET AND FRIENDLY FACE.I’LL NEVER FORGET THAT NIGHT AS LONG AS I LIVE.WE SANG EVERY SONG WITH HIM AND HAD THE TIME IF OUR LIFE’S. I CAN’T PLAY HIS MUSIC NOW WITHOUT TEARS ROLLING DOWN MY FACE,AND SMILING TOO. THEN AND EVEN NOW IN( MAY 2009) HIS LIFE AND HIS SONGS TOUCH ME AS IF I WAS 17 AGAIN! WHAT A FEELLING !!!!!!!!!!!!
JUST TO SEE YOU AGAIN!!
MY STEP BROTHER TOMMY SCHWARTZ PLAYED IN A BAND WITH GRAY’S BROTHER , GREG. THEY WRE ALL GREAT.
I KNEW GREG BUT NEVER MET GARY–BUT LOVED HIS MUSIC.
GARY STEWART IS MY NAME….I REMBER GARY STEWART THE SINGER FROM MY GRAMP PAW…HE TOLD ME THAT WHEN GARY CAME ON THE RAIDO HE WOULD THINK OF ME…THAT MADE ME REAL HAPPY…HE PASS WHEN I WAS REAL YOUNG…I WOULD LIKE TO SAY THANKS FOR THE SONG AND THE NAME…ITS TOUCH ME ALOT…
GARY C STEWART
Indeed Gary Steward was one of the greatest honky-tonk singer. I went to most of his concerts when he came to Dine’ Nation.
SuePhilemon
M.C., Utah
So sorry you’re not here to know how your songs are being played on Willie’s Place..you left us too too soon…
I was working at The Palace (C & W Club on Harry Hines St.)in Dallas in the late 70’S. Stewart played there several times. Great entertainer! He will be missed. New C & W artist could learn a lot from his music. RIP Gary.
I first met Gary @ Russell Music in Fort Pierce ,Fla. He was just checking out guitars and we struck up a conversation. He is not forgotten here in town. He later volunteered his time and music to the local “Concerts in the Park Series” hosted by the Saint Lucie County Cultural Affairs Council. I beleive every juke box in town still has his albums and the songs are played often. He may be gone but he is not forgotten here in his final ” Home Town”.
Loved his Music and Tommy, my step brother, who played music with him.
GARY TODAY IS SEPTEMBER 14, 2009, I LISTEN TO YOUR MUSIC ALL THE TIME ON MY CD AT WORK, I JUST LEARNED OF YOUR DEATH SEPTEMBER 12, 2009 IN THE RADIO HERE IN ALBUQUERQUE. NOW I LISTEN WITH GREAT SADNESS. SURE MISS YOU AND YOUR MUSIC…
Gary Stewart- and you wondered if you’d be remembered! Reading all the thoughts from so, so many, and after all these years…
I guess I am needing/wanting to finally let loose of some of the stored up thoughts I have surpressed for many many years:
I held on to some precious memories: a photo of me and Gary at Tootsie’s right before Drinking thing came out..maybe it was close to FanFare time.
I also have photos from a time (1981 or 1982) in Texas at some guy’s house who was promoting tee shirts and Gary Stewart pins at Gary’s gigs. Those are priceless..Gary wearing a Dallas Cowboy’s helmet, with his jeans on backwards, making fierce looking faces.
Also have some photos somewhere of a skinny curly haired guy, at sunrise, holding up bread for seagulls, with a look of wonderment.
And I think the photos I took of him at the Trubador in LA, when he played as the warm up band for Ronnie Milsap (full orchestra), are out there somewhere, as I sent him copies and have seen those images printed in something.
It is amazing how hearing his voice and seeing video of him can bring time to a standstill and transport one back 30-35 years!!!
In between the times we saw or talked to one another I kept up with him through magazine articles, a couple of tv appearances, Grandal and Candy, and then the internet. It warms my heart that he touched so many lifes.
I wish I had chosen Lou’s friendship above the rest. I would have been a lifelong friend of them both and perhaps I could have offered encouragement to continue living. I have been missing them both for many many years.
i know alot of people dont believe me but gary stewart was a part of my family he’s my cousin
Gary,
You are truely the Greatest, and will live on for generations. My 12 year old son loves your CD’s – We have them all, I read once he was embarrassed by his performance on the Live @ Billy Bob’s Record, we listen to it all the time and love it, nothing to be ashamed of You Sound GREAT! I saw him multiple times at the Texas Rose Hall,(after a little wait), but he always sounded great. I miss those times and know what a shame it is for our kids that don’t get that experience. Thanks again for the memories and all the great music that you gave us.
There will never and I mean never be no one like Gary Stewart. He was the greatest of all time. I’d seen him and he was awesome. I listen to his music every day. I’ve been listening to him for over 30 years and never get tired fo it.
I don’t think Gary Stewart knew how many fans he had, spread all over the U.S. We loved him in Lakeport, Florida (close to Okeechobee and Ft. Pierce) He is missed, we still play his music so that he’s not forgotten. R.I.P. Gary, I still love you.
i have learned of gary stewart’s death a day after he passed, me adn my uncle were headed into town, i put in gary’s cassette and was playing it when my uncle told me “you know he killed himself” i said “noway” he was indeed a good singer and he did sang from the heart and what his music meant to everyone of us. it had meaning. i will miss dthat guy, he was a good person. rest in p eace gary.. love you and your songs alway/ “GEM”
Gary was my party for more than a few years and then I sobored up around 1997 and got used to this life but I still listen to Gary and get carried away. I just plain love his music and his voice. And now I read that he has been gone for 6 years. well he was a good one, and I feel sad, like it just happened, and I guess to me it has . God Bless you Gary, and thank you for your music that made me so happy especially when I wasn’t.
I was pitching a song called you cant treat a lady like that and someone said that would be a good STEWART Song. So GARY was in DALLAS that night at the ole BELLE STARR CLUB. I got to meet and talk with him he was and still is the king of the honky tonks.He has influenced me along with many more.GOD BLESS YOU!
RONNIETACKETTBAND
I was fortunate to have met Gary, October 1, 1978 – my 18th birthday, my sisters and I went to visit him in Ft. Pierce, we met his mum and dad, his sisters and brothers and his son Joey, his daughter Shannon and his wife, everyone was sooo nice to us and very welcoming – my sister was a huge fan of his and when we met him, we were too! he even gave me a signed copy of his most recent album at that time … I still have it and it was the BEST present I have ever received …. my sister died on Dec 10, 2003 and 6 days later Gary died … both will be missed more than they will ever know, I always thought that Gary should have been bigger then he was … R.I.P. Gary and Joey
I’m just stopping by again to pay my respects to the legend that was and is Gary Stewart
Dak Alley
I can remember the times Gary came to the Orange Blossom in Mount Pleasant Texas So many times I was just barely 18 before they changed the drinking age to 21. Then I moved to Fort Worth most of my family is from FW and have had clients that were doing business inside Billy Bob’s and always had tickets to any concert I wanted. Gary’s were the ones that I always attended and enjoyed the most. I put him right up there with Ray Price and Conway Twitty…great sound and attitude towards life…sang thru his life. Thank you Gary for the memories…My wife and I have danced for years to an Empty Glass and always will. My girls (6 and 4) ride my feet to that song and will as long as I can carry them!
What a tragedy for country music. Gary Stewart was by far my favorite singer and an inspiration to those of us that appreciated true country music. I was saddened and very disappointed to read about his death and the problems he had in his life. My Heart and prayers goes to his Family for their loss and may God take care of them.
Gary, may you rest in peace. I pray (Matthew 14:27) and (matthew 14:30-31) You will be missed!
Gary Stayed with us on many occasions while playing monthly at Cowboy’s. He was original and very humble. Gary and I once ate lunch together prior to me taking him to the airport to return home to Florida. I asked if he liked Itailian food, and he said yes. We went to a little place I know on the way to the airport. After eating, Gary wanted to pick up the check. He looked at the check, then he looked at me and said, “Son, let’s get out of here they only charged us for one”……….I about laughed myself to death. He was so used to traveling and paying premium prices at hotels etc… he had no idea the ticket was correct.
I have TONS more stories and certainly miss Gary, Donnie McDuff and Gary Hogue from this area of Texas!
RIP – Brothers
Gary Stewart has always been our greatest singer, special person to us, The Navajo Nation was really shock, when he passed away, I remember the Navajo Nation Radio Station had Tribute for him, playing only his music all day….He has comes out to our Reservation, in Arizona, many times, to perform. I love all his songs, I grew up with all his music and I still listen to his music and our rezervation bands continue singing all his songs and have Gary Stewart Tribute at the Native Dances, his still with us forever, His never forgotton, We Really Miss You Gary, You still keep the Party and dance floor going, with the “Empty Glass”!
I regret that I never had the opportunity to see Gary Stewart play live. I was hooked in the late 1970’s ( a teenager)when I bought the record Your Place or Mine. From there I went back and aquired Out of Hand. Some people say Gary was too honky-tonk for country. Didn’t matter to me, as Gary was an artist who had his own sound–mix outlaw, country, blues, whatever–he had it all down. There will olny be one Gary Stewart, and the world is a better place because of his music. rest in peace Gary.
I also saw Gary Stewart back in Pikeville KY. years ago at Marlows Bar, Drove from Mi. just to see him he had a sound that was his alone. A great sound sorry to hear about his passing it is a big loss he could have gone so far with that voice I still play his music I love it so long Gary hope to see you in heaven some day!
My 2 Brother’s Randy & Russ Toman”The Toman Brother’s Band” spent years playing as Gary’s Back-up Band! Gary wasn’t just a Friend…He was part of our “TOMAN” Family!! “Empty Glass” was my Parents’ Favorite song when they would go and see “The Boys” play!! His Death came as a Great shock to our Family. Randy & Russ were very close to Gary! Randy & Russ tell such Great stories of being on the road with Gary! When our Family gets together, stories about Gary always get spoke!! We all Loved him Very Much! He will Always live through his “wonderful” music and He will always live in our Hearts!! “THANK YOU GARY” for all of those “Wonderful” years you gave us all! We Love and Miss You! Love You Always, Renee Toman Faschingbauer
Gary Stewart and Lacy J Dalton got me through the worst part of my life. I had always wondered where he had gone off to. Never knew till a few years ago he was really gone. He was the BEST of the best. SOOOOOO sad that he is gone. Sorry that he had such a hard time in life .. I always knew he drank to much.. but so did I.. I never realize that all the time he was helping me though life he was suffering and struggling till he lost his love and then his life. . He will be missed.
gary was my 2nd cousin..i was young when he passed way but a year or two before he did i got to listen to the man play in his home town of jenkins kentucky..and i wish he was here now, cause over the years his music has helped me through alot of heart ache…i miss ya gary and i love ya man..hey someday in heaven well play together and gather us up some wemon and party down cause we’re 2 good timin men..and thanks to my beloved cousin ive stared righting my own songs as well due to a woman that cheated onme and left me here all alone
i love gary and his music is just awesome i seen him 4 or 5 times and will never forget him he died on my b-day Lord bless his soul and his remaining family
Went to school with Gary in Fort Pierce. Grew up with him and his younger brother. Music was Gary. Lived right down the road from him. Good people. When Billy Eldridge was a cop and they got going together I had a barber shop in town. We all were so proud of them both. Billy stayed home Gary went on. Miss you man.
I had heard about Gary’s passing and was trying to come up with one of his songs to cut and it just hit me…I don’t think I will even try to emulate this great talent.RIP Gary Stewart.
I will never forget……
First time, I was 17 at Gilley’s
Years later I drank Crown with him on his bus..(only cause he liked my girlfriends shirt)
One time I found him in the parking lot of the Texas Hall of Fame passed out in the parking lot with a black girl.
(I don’t feel like repairing the repeat)
I hope it didn’t hurt too much, I’m about to go out in the same style.
See ya soon Gary…….
Living in Gary’s hometown Ft.Pierce all my life ,you can imagine the influence his music had on me. I ran into Gary at a local music store in 1987. With nobody else around I started asking him how he played certain songs {album cuts].It seemed he was surprised that this 20 year old kid knew all of his songs. He was patient and understanding and showed me everything I asked . To this day I play guitar and piano as a result of that sitdown. I will never forget that day because he put the fire in me to play. I met up with him several more times over the years and he remembered me from that day. And for that, I Thank him for making me feel like i mattered. He did’nt bigshot me, he helped me. Sadly, the last time i saw him was at his funeral. I was pissed that his death was not mentioned on the award shows at all. Guess outlaws are not welcome there. Thanks for the inspiration Gary . Keeping it real for you .
It’s been four years since I last stopped in to pay my respect, still love you Gary
Dak
Still missing Gary. Still play his music every weekend. I live in N.C. and I still thank God that when I was visiting friends in San Antonio on Labor Day 2001, that Gary happened to be playing at a club called Midnight Rodeo. The only time I was able to watch The King Of The Honky Tonks play live.I was on cloud 9!!! Johnny Rodriguez showed up and the dueted on “Pass Me By If You’re Only Passing Thru” Lets keep Gary’s music alive!!!
Gary was one of the very best in his field.i had the pleasure of playing the steel guitar in his band for a while.
i miss you man.
mike
Gary was one of the very best in his field.i had the pleasure of playing the steel guitar in his band for a while.
i miss you man.
I grew up in Ft Pierce,Fla. the same town that Gary grew up in and I can remember as a teenager in high school I worked at Winn-Dixie and Gary’s wife and her parents always came thru my check-out line – as I grew older I can remember going to the Old Ft Pierce hotel and dancing to singing & music as Gary Stewart performed there and was very well loved & enjoyed.
I was so glad he went to Nashville and shared his talent with many. It was so neat to go in the stores and see records by Gary Stewart that was from my hometown. It was very exciting to hear him on radio. I would always think “I know him”.
It saddened my heart that his wife, Mary Lou died But not as much as it did Gary. He felt he could not go on without her. Gary also lost a son to suicide.
He still lives on in his music. My prayer is that he was ready to meet his creator.
It has been a while now but I pray his family is blessed.
I remember first hearing Gary in my home town of Ft.Pierce, Fl. He sang at alot of Moose Lodge cookouts. His sister was engaged to my nephew. He later turned out to live around the corner from me. He loved his wife so much and just couldn’t go on without her. He will never be forgotten. He was one of a kind. Our prayers are with his family. Shannon your dad was so loved.
Still missed
I REMEMBER GARY THROUGH MY BOSS GARY HUDMON AND AT THE LONG BRANCH WITH HIS EASY PEOPLE BAND.MY BOSSES WIFE MABLE SIGNED FOR GARY AND LOU TO GET MARRIED. I REMEMBER HIM FROM THE DAYS GOING TO THE LONG BRANCH, PLUS MY DAD AND BROTHERS LISTEN TO HIM WHEN I WAS GROWING UP . MY FAVORITE SONG WAS AND STILL IS CATUS AND A ROSE. I KNEW HIS BROTHER GRANDALL FROM THE PACKING HOUSE AND HE WAS A GOOD GUY.I TOOK MY KIDS TO SEE HIM AND GOT PICTURES WITH HIM AT THE FORT PIERCE FAIR WHICH TURNED OUT TO BE HIS LAST CONCERT.I MISS EVERY ONE FROM THE EASY PEOPLE BAND FROM THE LONG BRANCH.I STILL LISTEN TO YOUR CDS EVERY DAY AND THERE WILL NEVER BE A BETTER SINGER OR BAND AS YALL WAS, GOD BLESS AND LOVE YOU FOREVER.
Saw Him in Pikeville KY , I think it was called Marlowes when I was in my 20s….Never will forget that night.I never knew he was from around Jenkins KY as my family was from Belfry KY…The first time I heard his Music I was living in AZ…Rest in Peace! I loved your Music!
LOVE HIS MUSIC, HE WAS ONE OF A KIND. I SAW HIM IN YANTIS TEXAS AND HE WA FANTASTIC. HAD THE WHOLE PLACE SINGING AND HAVING A GREAT TIME WITH HIM. MY DAUGHTER KNEW HIM PERSONALLY, I DIDN’T BUT SHE SAID HE IS TRULY A GENTLEMEN. WE WILL ALL MISS HIM……..YOUNG AND OLD LOVED HIS MUSIC AND STILL DO……..WOULD LOVE TO HEAR MORE OF HIS MUSIC ON THE RADIO. REAT IN PEACE MY FRIEND
I was around the age of 12 when i first met gary. My uncle Jack began booking and managing gary. I watched him play guitar at the house and watching him made me wanna play and seeing him onstage made me wanna perform and be like gary stewart. My uncle had a motorcycle club out in montgomery county and i remember gary was always there for every club party. A great memory i have was waking up one morning after one of the parties to gary in the kitchen eating ribs and ice-cream for breakfast. I remember watching gary at tin hall when i was 13, hard to believe i was at a honky tonk at that age. I remember they tried to give me crap and i dont know what gary said to them exactly but they didnt mess with me the rest of the night.When Lou had surgery back in the 90’s my mom went to florida to help care for her while gary went to play some shows. My mom could tell more gary stories than i could ever think of. Matter of fact, the set for the photo shoot of the “im a texan” album,she designed and set up. gary was a very soft spoken and kind soul that was a giver who loved to give advice and help and teach. The world was luck to have a soul like gary’s and it was an honor to be his friend We all love him and miss him sorely and i look forward to walking and talking with you again one day my friend.
Gary was a good friend.I met him many years ago at the junk yard my family owned. I will never forget the day I met him. I was sitting behind the counter playing my guitar when he walked in . He stood there and listened for a minute or so before speaking. “He then said “thats a pretty good song. where did you pick it up ” I said ” A guy named Gary Stewart wrote it. I really like some of his songs.” The song I was singing was “She’s actin single” Gary then said. Yeah.. I think I have heard of him ” It was right about that time I looked at him real hard and figured out who he was. I was rather embarrassed .. At the time I did not even realize that he was from FT Pierce… Well we were friends ever after that day. I must say it really hurts knowing that he is gone. Marylou for that matter as well. If anyone knows how to get a hold of his daughter Shannon. Please pass my info along to her. I would like to say hi. Altho she most likely will not remember who I am.
The blog is wrong in the last statement that Gary only played around small bars in his hometown.I was a lifelong friend of Garys and Gary recorded many of my songs.In his last years he played mainly in large Texas venue’s, like Billy Bobs, Cowboys,Belle Stars, and the Barn. All these were very large venues, Billy Bobs and Cowboys holding thousands, and Gary packed it out. You can find videos from these at youtube/user/moondancerrecords, that will cooberate my story.As a matter of fact , Gary played very little in his hometown of Ft Pierce Fla, really only when he went out on the town with his buddies, such as the night 11 days before his death at Pinapple Joes , where he and Tommy Swartz sat in and did three songs.Another misconception by many , Garys real hometown was Jenkins, Ky.,he left there at about ten years old.I just had a two hour interview with Mayor Kincer of Jenkins on local TV, and they have committed to a Gary Stewart Museum, which will be located right on main Street in Jenkins in an Historic building, which is being renovated for that purpose as we speak.The entire building will be a museum, with everything from clothing he wore on stage to his gear such as guitars and amps, with a large screen playing Gary the entire time the museum is open, and every known piece of music that Gary ever recorded that can be found.There will be thousands of pictures , and we have most of this stuff allready. Anyone with anything of Garys they would like to see in this museum, please email me @sonnytackett297@yahoo.com.It’s hard to let these things go ,I know,but they will be preserved forever in this museum,for future generations to know Garys music, and isn’t that what we want..Thank you, Sonny Tackett
Just found out about the way this man died, and although it is shocking and very sad, I find all the great messages on this board to be very heart warming. The words from these fans are a true living tribute to his musical legacy and I hope some of this love finds him somewhere…….somewhere at peace.
Kurt
I wish I could’ve met Gary. Maybe I could’ve have helped him in his time of sorrow. Maybe a lot of us wished we could’ve kept him going after he lost his dear wife. Sooooo very sad we lost such a great singer and person. I will listen to his music forever. I love you Gary.
Along w/ many others, I’m just checkin back in here after posting my 1st tribute just after “The Man’s” passing; moved beyond words @ all the sheer love & positivity generated by this Honky Tonk dynamo, but not surprised…sittin here on a Sun. morning laughing thru tears @ some of these fierce, heart-felt memories.
I hate movie bios of singers, only the young Gary Busey seemed worthwhile as Buddy Holly, but ya know who COULD have portrayed Gary? The young Rip Torn…he played a sorta not-too-admirable CW singer in a little-seen movie called “Payday” about 40 yrs. ago…can’t happen now, of course, but he was/is a great actor & always had that hell-raising but tender “Gary” feel.
I love that Gary’s music is flourishing not only on CD’s, juke boxes, & even YouTube clips, but is picked, rocked, & sung on porches, living rooms,parties, on & on, so much a part of all our lives. I spread the “Gary Stewart” gospel (no disrespect)to whomever I can. Rock On Forever, Little Junior…
Gary Stewart was and still is the king of honky tonk music. back in the 90’s I had the honor of meeting him at the melody ranch in waco tx. I shook his hand and said your great. He autographed a shirt I bought. { just had it framed. I’M very proud of it. Gary’s music is ON. the other’s is OFF.
Wish I could see u one last time. You are not forgotten ! Best singer songwriter ever
Honky Tonkin…Sure makes me feel fine!!! Really enjoy your music Gary!!! Wish you were still with us. Would have liked to have met you and see you perform. We will see you in the next Life. I just know their is going to be some really good music there where we can listen all we want for eternity!!! Rest In Peace Gary…
Gary, you are still missed so much. I go along for a while forgetting you are gone, even when I am listening to you on the tape player in the car. And then suddenly the memories come pouring back, to include your last phone call which you ended with an Irish song. I didn’t know you were calling to say good bye.
See you soon, God willing.
Millie