NASHVILLE, TENN. – Artists and industry friends reflect on the passing of Five-time Grammy Award winner and Grammy Hall of Fame inductee, B.J. Thomas who passed away at the age of 78 from complications due to stage-four lung cancer.
Per the release announcing his passing, Thomas’ career was anchored by numerous enduring hits, among them his million-selling cover of Hank Williams’ “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry,” the Grammy-winning “(Hey Won’t You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song” and the iconic “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head,” which won the Academy Award for best original song. A five-time Grammy Award winner and Grammy Hall of Fame inductee, Thomas has sold over 70 million albums worldwide, scoring eight No. 1 hits and 26 Top 10 singles over his 50+ years in the music industry. His lengthy chart history led to him being named one of Billboard’s Top 50 Most Played Artists Over The Past 50 Years. Such memorable hits as “I Just Can’t Help Believing, “Don’t Worry Baby,” “Whatever Happened To Old Fashioned Love,” “New Looks From An Old Lover” and “Hooked on a Feeling” have made him a staple on multiple radio formats over the years.
“Simply heartbreaking to hear of the passing of BJ Thomas. This loss will be felt not only in country music, but all genres. His music could fit in any programming, any event or music outlet. The same could be said about BJ himself. He was always dressed so sharp and appropriate for the occasion, and was so friendly to everyone he met. May this be his legacy.”–Jeannie Seely
“BJ Thomas was one of those very special artists, who had that unmistakably unique voice. I was so fortunate to have gotten to work with this amazingly gifted man, and to call him my friend.”–Steve Dorff
“B.J. was always one of the nicest, down-to-earth artists I was ever around, a real gentleman ad a true music legend.”–Marlon Hargis, Exile
“We worked with B.J. in the ’60s on the Dick Clark Caravan of Stars. He was so kind and encouraging to us young upstarts. We’ve lost a giant.”–JP Pennington, Exile
“Long before we got the chance to work with him, I was a fan. After we met him and shared the same stage, I became an even bigger fan! He had an amazing voice and was a true talent, yet he was such a kind and humble man. Rest in peace B.J.”–Sonny LeMaire, Exile
“I had a unique opportunity to spend a few brief moments with BJ away from show business. I learned that both he and Gloria were givers and generous in nature. My life got a little better because of them.”–Steve Goetzman, Exile
“I remember listening to BJ.and man I wish I could sing like that…what a great voice and a wonderful human being! The music world has lost yet another Great, Great artist!”–Les Taylor, Exile
“BJ Thomas’ voice holds a special place in my memory. No one sounds like BJ. “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” is even sadder today.” Heaven’s choir is sweeter now.”–Linda Davis
“My prayers and condolences to the family and fans of BJ Thomas, one of the best, purest artists to ever step on a stage. My favorite songs of his are “Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head” and “I Just Can’t Help Belevin’”, two of the best songs ever, in my opinion. And he had so many others. The world is a better place because of BJ Thomas and he will continue to live and be honored with his music.”–Taylon Hope
“So very saddened to hear of the passing of the legendary B.J. Thomas. The music world for sure lost a giant. “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head” and “Hooked on a Feeling” will both forever be two of my favorites. He will live on through all of his music. Love and prayers to his family, friends and all who knew him.”–Dani-elle Kleha