It was with great sadness that Hot Press learned of the death of Jody
Payne, long time guitarist for Willie Nelson. According to Associated
Press, the 77 year old died due to cardiac complications. Payne was rushed to hospital after feeling unwell, but died shortly after.

Jody Payne originally joined up with Nelson in 1973, after working with Ray Price and
Merle Haggard. “Sad to report that Jody Payne passes away. Our friend
will be missed,” Nelson wrote on his Facebook page.

He played with Nelson and his band from 1973 right up to 2008. After
his retirement, he continued to play in public and even took up teaching guitar at
his local music store in Stapleton, Alabama. He will be remembered as
one of the greatest bluegrass and country guitar players of his
generation.