Bluegrass fans are in mourning as legendary singer/songwriter Ronnie Bowman has sadly passed away at the age of 64. He’s perhaps best known for writing country hits for the likes of Chris Stapleton as well as bluegrass albums, notably The Lonesome River Band’s “Cold Virginia Night.” Additionally, he was a part of Band of Ruhks. Now, tributes are pouring in.
According to Bluegrass Today, Bowman passed away on March 22 at around 3 pm CST. This came after he was reportedly severely injured in a motorcycle crash the previous day.
GettyFans Are Paying Tribute To Ronnie Bowman
GettyFollowing his passing, many fans and industry colleagues are taking to social media to pay tribute to his legacy. One person said on X, “Sending love to the entire music community as we honor the life and legacy of Ronnie Bowman. He was an exceptionally gifted artist whose influence will be felt for years to come. Gone far too soon—may he rest in peace and take his place in the great Ryman heaven.”
Someone else, “Truly devastated to hear of the passing of Ronnie Bowman. He was my first big write in Nashville in 2023, and one of the kindest humans I’ve met. We wrote a song about my grandmother, stayed late to finish the demo, and later he called twice to make sure I got home safe.”
Someone else, “Sad to hear of the passing of Ronnie Bowman. One of my favorite bluegrass singers.” Another fan, wrote, “R.I.P. Ronnie Bowman. You were one of the great ones.”
A different Bowman fan wrote, “Spent many an hour listening to this man sing. All-time bluegrass legend, prayers to his family.”
A fan on Facebook wrote, “This is breaking my heart. Ronnie was one of the first Bluegrass players I ever met. He and his wife and Don Rigsby and Lori and Brad Lambert and my husband went to an after-hours place and ate and listened to the Lamberts play music. It was one of my favorite memories. Ronnie RIP, you will be greatly missed.”
His Legacy Will Live On
According to Jubilee Cast, Bowman first rose to fame as part of The Lonesome River Band, where his vocals helped define the group. It’s also generally accepted that he was one of the most influential bluegrass artists of the 90s.
Regarding accolades, the International Bluegrass Music Association awarded him Male Vocalist of the Year for 1995, 1998, and 1999. His 1995 release, “Cold Virginia Night,” was also selected by the association as Album of the Year.
He also won a Grammy as a songwriter after contributing to Stapleton’s 2015 album, “Traveller.”
Later in his career, Bowman formed The Band of Ruhks with fellow bluegrass legends Don Rigsby and Kenny Smith. Bowman will be missed, but his legacy will live on.
Such a tragic loss !!!
Thoughts and Prayers for his family, friends, and anyone who ever had the privilege of knowing and working with Mr. Bowman.
Rest In Bluegrass Heaven