2024 has already seen the passing of several country music artists and industry members, leaving a void in the genre. Despite their absence, the impact and influence of these individuals will continue to shape country music for generations to come. One of the notable losses was Toby Keith, who had been battling cancer and passed away on February 5 at the age of 62. Shortly after, rockabilly/country musician Mojo Nixon died of a cardiac event while performing on the Outlaw Country Cruise at the age of 66. The rockabilly genre also suffered the loss of Larry Collins, one half of the duo the Collins Kids and co-writer of Tanya Tucker's "Delta Dawn," who died at 79 in early January.

In addition, Margo Smith, known for her success in the late '70s with country and Christian hits, passed away. The country music community also mourned the deaths of cross-genre icons such as Melinda Wilson, wife of Beach Boys legend Brian Wilson, Rocky star Carl Weathers, All My Children star Alec Musser, and rock 'n' roll drummer Jimmy Van Eaton. These individuals will be remembered and celebrated for their contributions to country music.