David Allan Coe, a legendary figure in country music and the man behind iconic songs like “Take This Job and Shove It,” has passed away at the age of 86. His wife, Kimberly Hastings Coe, confirmed the news to Rolling Stone, expressing her deep sorrow and highlighting his incredible talent as a singer and songwriter.
Coe’s music resonated with many, particularly with working-class listeners. His song “Take This Job and Shove It,” popularized by Johnny Paycheck in 1977, became a rallying cry for those feeling oppressed at work. He also wrote other hits, including “You Never Even Called Me By My Name” and “The Ride,” showcasing his range as an artist.
Despite his success, Coe often felt like an outsider in Nashville, partly due to his raw lyrics and controversial past. His representative announced that he died around 5 p.m. on a Wednesday, although the cause of death has not been disclosed.
In 2021, Kim shared on social media that Coe had been hospitalized with COVID-19, and he made few public appearances since then. Throughout his career, he collaborated with many big names, including Willie Nelson and Kid Rock, and his songwriting prowess earned him a dedicated fan base.
Coe’s life was as colorful as his music. Born in Akron, Ohio, he encountered significant challenges, including time in reformatories and a prison sentence from 1963 to 1967. He often spoke about how music helped him cope during those tough times. “I’d have never made it through prison without my music,” he once said, highlighting its importance in his life.
His musical journey began with his debut album, “Penitentiary Blues,” which included songs he wrote while incarcerated. Over time, Coe became known for his unique style, performing in a rhinestone suit and earning the nickname “The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy.” His songs often depicted the struggles and lifestyles of the working class and those on the fringes of society.
Coe was a prominent figure in the outlaw country movement, which sought to break the mold of mainstream country music. His songs like “Longhaired Redneck” captured the spirit of this movement, vividly portraying life in dive bars and the camaraderie among diverse crowds.
He also appeared in several films, including “Stagecoach” and “Take This Job and Shove It,” which was inspired by his own hit song. However, Coe’s career was not without controversy. He released albums in the late 1970s that included explicit content, which he later expressed regret over, stating that they were meant for a different audience and not for public consumption.
In 2016, Coe faced legal issues with the IRS, highlighting the challenges he faced outside of his musical career. Despite these challenges, he remained a beloved figure in country music, known for his authenticity and the powerful storytelling present in his songs.
David Allan Coe leaves behind a rich legacy in country music, one that will continue to inspire future generations of artists. His music not only entertained but also spoke to the struggles and triumphs of everyday life, making him a true icon in the genre.
