Acclaimed country music star Melba Montgomery has died at the age of 86, according to a emotional Facebook post from her daughter, Melissa Solomon Barrett. Dated January 15, it read, "It is with great sadness that we announce our family has lost our mother, Melba Montgomery Solomon. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister to my uncle, sister-in-law to my aunts and aunt to my cousins. She fought a long battle with dementia but is now with her loving husband, Jack Solomon in Heaven. We know mom has been waiting to hold dad for over 10 years. We will provide visitation and funeral arrangements as we learn more in the coming days. Thank you for loving our mom as much as we have. She was an incredibly talented, kind and generous woman.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Melissa Solomon Barrett, Jackie Solomon Chancey, Tara Solomon Capps, and Diane Holt"
Singing Was In Montgomery's Blood
She Launched Her Career As A Teenager
Per American Songwriter, Montgomery hailed from Iron City, Tennessee. Her family enjoyed singing. When she was a plucky 19-year-old, she entered a talent contest sponsored by a radio station that was held in Nashville. She landed the coveted first place, and Montgomery also caught the eye of renowned Roy Acuff. He was impressed enough to ask her to come on tour with him as one of his singers.
She Found Her Footing Professionally
Montgomery Spent Four Years Touring With Acuff Then Started Singing With George Jones
Montgomery's first duet with George Jones in 1963 was "We Must Have Been Out of Our Minds." It would be their initial pairing, but not their last by any means. Per the outlet, "Montgomery wrote the track, which ascended to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. That same year, the duo released their first studio album, What's In Our Hearts, which also peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Country LP's list."
Montgomery Only Had One Number 1 Smash Hit Song
It Was 'No Charge'
In 1974, Montgomery recorded a tender ballad titled, "No Charge." It moved listeners- and with good reason. The poignant song tells a story about a woman and her little boy. He comes to her and describes what he feels he deserves to be paid for doing his chores. Then she tells him that for her unconditional motherly devotion, "the full cost of my love is no charge."
According to the outlet, songwriter Harlan Howard was stunned by how strongly the public responded to the song. "I've never written a song that moves people so much. I've had guys tell me they almost wrecked their truck when they heard it 'cause it made them cry."
Fans Reacted To Melba Montgomery's Passing With Sadness And Affection
Many Expressed Their Thoughts On X
People who loved Montgomery's voice took to X to leave messages about their fondness for her and her music.
"I heard about the passing of Melba Montgomery. She famously sang with George Jones. My fav was w/ Charlie Louvin on 'Did You Ever'—all those playful innuendos and her sharp delivery—still makes me blush. What a voice, what a talent."
"Melba Montgomery's vocals and duets with George Jones are timeless. Her solo work deserves more recognition."
"Great lady great music condolences to her family"
