Country music legend George Strait has recently been struck with deep sadness following the passing of two individuals who held significant places in his life. The 71-year-old singer shared his heartfelt grief over the loss of his band member Gene Elders and his longtime manager Ervine “Erv” Woolsey, expressing that life will “never be the same” without them.
Both men passed away within hours of each other, leaving Strait and those close to them in mourning. On social media, Strait wrote a tribute to both, reflecting on their immense contributions to his life and career.
A Heartfelt Tribute to Gene Elders and Erv Woolsey
In his tribute, Strait expressed how difficult it was to lose two beloved members of his “music family” on the same day. He wrote, “It’s hard to fathom that we’ve lost two of our beloved music family on the same day. Gene Elders, our prized member of the Ace In the Hole band, passed away yesterday afternoon, just after we lost Erv. Our prayers are with their families. The band and I will feel a tremendous void without our brother Gene. He was dearly loved. Go play with Mike again, Geno. We’ll join you when it’s time.”
The post, filled with emotion, reflected the bond Strait shared with both Elders and Woolsey, and the profound impact they had on his personal and professional life.
Gene Elders: A Musician Who Shaped Strait’s Sound
Gene Elders, originally from Austin, Texas, joined George Strait’s Ace In the Hole band in 1984. Elders, a highly skilled fiddler and mandolin player, was integral in creating the signature sound of Strait’s band. Prior to his time with Strait, Elders had a notable career as a member of Lyle Lovett’s Large Band, where he spent 11 years honing his craft. His contributions to the Ace In the Hole band brought a unique and powerful presence to Strait’s music, and his loss left a significant void in the group.
Ervine Woolsey: The Manager Who Believed in George Strait
Ervine Woolsey, Strait’s manager for 45 years, passed away due to complications following surgery. Strait described Woolsey as a “fighter,” but noted that the complications from the surgery proved too much. Woolsey was known as one of Nashville’s most respected managers, and his influence extended far beyond Strait’s career.
Woolsey’s role in Strait’s rise to stardom cannot be overstated. In fact, it was Woolsey who discovered George Strait in a Texas bar back in 1975, at a time when many in the music industry dismissed Strait as too traditional. Woolsey’s unwavering belief in Strait’s talent led him to become an ardent supporter of the singer, even when others doubted his success.
As an executive at MCA Records, Woolsey was instrumental in signing Strait in 1981 and helping him maintain his distinct sound, which ultimately revitalized country music traditions. Strait’s rise to fame is deeply tied to Woolsey’s guidance and vision.
Tributes from Fans and Colleagues
Following the news of their passing, fans and colleagues from the country music world shared their condolences and memories of Elders and Woolsey. One fan expressed disbelief, writing, “I can hardly believe it. So many memorable moments, so many years of incredible music. We are thinking of you all.” Another fan shared their appreciation for Elders, saying, “I cherished Gene’s fiddle playing in your songs.”
Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, also paid tribute to Ervine Woolsey’s lasting legacy. He highlighted Woolsey’s pivotal role in the careers of many artists, including Lee Ann Womack, Dierks Bentley, and Clay Walker. Young remarked, “Without Erv Woolsey’s wisdom and determination, we might never have heard of George Strait.”
The Enduring Impact of Ervine Woolsey
Young continued, acknowledging that Woolsey was integral to Strait’s success. “Erv discovered Strait in a Texas bar back in 1975 and immediately became an ardent supporter, even when others felt the singer was too traditional,” he explained. Young further praised Woolsey for his role in helping Strait maintain his authentic style, stating, “We owe Erv Woolsey immense gratitude for his unwavering conviction and for always championing artists and emerging talents.”
Both Gene Elders and Ervine Woolsey’s influence on George Strait’s life and career will never be forgotten. Their legacies continue to shape the country music world, and their loss leaves a profound impact on all who knew them.
