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Kenny Chesney penned a heartfelt tribute to Michael Rhodes, a well-respected Nashville musician who died on Saturday morning (March 4). He was 69.
Chesney remembered Rhodes as a longtime friend. Rhodes, a bass guitarist, played on Chesney’s first-ever album at the start of his career. Chesney expressed his gratitude for working with Rhode, and noted to country radio listeners that “odds are,” Rhodes played on some of their favorite songs. He wrote in a tribute shared on Monday (March 6):
“Michael Rhodes played on my first album ever. And then several after that. I am so thankful Michael and I made music together and then gave it to the world to hear. I have so much gratitude for that. He taught me a lot about making records and was such a big part in creating my sound. He was simply one of the best bass players/human beings I have ever worked with and he will be missed. If you are listening to one of your favorite songs on the radio tonight… Odds are Michael played on it. Rest in peace and thank you, my friend.”
Rhodes was an award-winning, Musicians Hall of Fame member who was known for his work with some of country music’s biggest vocalists. Rhodes’ family requested donations to the Music Health Alliance in his honor, in lieu of flowers, per multiple reports.