Country star Ed Bruce has died at age 81. The singer passed away of natural causes on Friday in his Clarksville, Tenn. home, his publicist confirmed to Fox News.
Bruce started his music career as a recording engineer when he was 17-years-old. During that time, he wrote and recorded various songs, many of which were used by top artists including pop star Tommy Roe and country singer Charlie Louvin, according to Deadline.
His big break came in 1974 with the singles "The Man That Turned My Mama On," which was performed by Tanya Tucker, and "Restless," which Crystal Gayle turned into a hit. Two years later Bruce co-wrote "Mamas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys" with his wife Patsy Bruce. The song achieved relative success but exploded onto the charts in 1978 when Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings performed a cover of the it.
Bruce's next hit came in 1979, with "Texas (When I Die)" which was recorded by Tucker. In addition to writing music for top artists, Bruce also focused on his own music, entering the charts with songs including "Diane," "The Last Cowboy Song," and "You’re the Best Break This Old Heart Ever Had." He later turned his attention to acting, appearing in various western films and TV shows.
Bruce's first lead role was in "Bret Maverick," which starred James Garner. From there he went on to appear in "Walker, Texas Ranger" and also starred alongside Dolly Parton in "Blue Valley Songbird" and Tim McGraw in "Country Strong."
Zoe Papadakis ✉
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