“Joe Diffie was the ‘pickup man’ — always had a smile and a story, to cure and encourage. It was my fortunate blessing to come along the same time JD did, in music —so many great memories, and so many times he ‘propped me up.’ The trailer that Bud Hunter hauled all across the country on our tour for years was the one we got from Joe — it had 71 on it, because that was Joe’s golf score, so Bud left it there. I guess he was always with us and always will be! Mary and I send love and prayers to Tara and the family, in this unbearably sad moment, as country music is left with a huge void. Rest easy my friend, shoot 71 every day — til we sing together again. I love you brother.” – Randy Travis, Country Music Hall of Fame and Grand Ole Opry member
*Randy and Joe were featured on “Same Old Train” with a slew of fellow artists in 1998: Click Here
“We’re all shocked and saddened to hear the news of my friend Joe Diffie’s passing. Joe and I toured for a year together along with Travis Tritt. Everyday he would come by my bus about noon and we would go to lunch together. He was a warm-hearted, good-natured, fun-loving man with an extraordinary voice. I will miss him.” – Lee Roy Parnell
*Check out Diffie, Parnell and Tritt on American Music Shop: Click Here
*Read Variety’s review of their package tour: Click Here
“I am in total shock hearing about our dear Joe! He is among everyone’s favorite singers. I was blessed to write a few big ones for Joe. ‘A Night To Remember’ and he one he took a big chance on ‘Tougher Than Nails.’ Nashville will never be the same without Joe Diffie.” – Max T. Barnes
*For a playlist of Joe Diffie songs penned by Barnes: Click Here
*For a photo of Diffie, Barnes and T.W. Hale: Click Here
“Rest in peace, Joe Diffie. Country music‘s huge loss of my friend, a great singer and songwriter. May God Bless his family and friends.” – Jerry Lee Lewis, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member
“Joe Diffie’s music is in heavy rotation in the soundtrack of my life. He was one of the first major artists I ever opened for and I will never forget how gracious he was to me and my band. Much love, thoughts and prayers for his family during this time.” – Paul Bogart, country artist and fellow Oklahoman
“Oklahoma lost a favorite son and the country music world lost an incredible voice yesterday. Joe Diffie and his music were the soundtrack to so many good times, it’s hard to believe he’s gone. He was a real neotraditionalist and his influence is still heard in new artists today. Thanks for the music, Joe.” – James Robert Webb, country artist and fellow Oklahoman
*In addition to touring together, Joe co-wrote “Burning Down This House” for Doug: Click Here