How Celebrities Ensured Loretta Lynn's Final Birthday Was One For The Books
The music world is mourning the heartbreaking death of country music legend Loretta Lynn, who passed away at the age of 90. "Our precious mom, Loretta Lynn, passed away peacefully this morning, October 4th, in her sleep at home in her beloved ranch in Hurricane Mills," her family wrote in a statement to the Associated Press.
Lynn's career began when her husband Oliver Lynn bought her a guitar and she taught herself how to play, per Celebrity Net Worth. The talented singer and songwriter — who was known for such hits as "Coal Miner's Daughter," "You Ain't Woman Enough," and "You're Looking at Country" — went on to become the first woman named entertainer of the year by the Country Music Association, in 1972, and by the Academy of Country Music, in 1975. She also won three Grammys, and in 2013 was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom from then-President Barack Obama.
"She was the groundbreaking female singer-songwriter in country music," Robert Oermann, co-author of "Finding Her Voice," a study of women in country music, told The Washington Post. "Her songs were delivered from a distinctly female point of view, and that had not been done before, not the way she did it. Writing about women as they really lived — that was a breakthrough."
So it's not surprising that Lynn was so beloved by her fellow musicians — and many of them made sure her 90th birthday was one to remember.
Country music superstars recorded video messages for Loretta Lynn
Loretta Lynn celebrated her 90th birthday in April 2022, and some of music's biggest stars appeared in a video to celebrate with her. Dolly Parton, Carrie Underwood, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw, Reba McEntire, and Garth Brooks were some of the notable names who recorded messages for Lynn (via People).
"To us, you're always timeless and ageless and always will be," McGraw said in the video. "I hope you know what you mean to so many of us. So happy birthday, enjoy it. Celebrate, and I hope I see you soon!" said Underwood. Towards the end of the video, Parton sang a special rendition of "Happy Birthday" to her friend, ending the tune with "We will always love you," per Southern Living.
Lynn's fans also had the chance to sign a digital birthday card for the singer, who was obviously touched by all of the attention. "I am getting so many big birthday wishes!" Lynn said in a statement about her birthday, according to People. "Thank you, friends, for thinking of me. I'm so happy I get to spend a little more time with you all. My family and I are planning a big dinner and, of course, cake! I love you!"