Keith Gattis, a country music singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer, passed away on Sunday, April 23, 2023, at the age of 52. He was known for his songs recorded by Kenny Chesney, George Strait, Willie Nelson, and many others. He also released two solo albums and worked as a band leader and guitarist for Dwight Yoakam. His death shocked and saddened the country music community and his fans. But how did Keith Gattis die? Here are the details of his cause of death and his life and career.
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A Tractor Accident Took His Life
According to a GoFundMe campaign arranged for Gattis’ family, the songwriter was killed in a tractor accident at his home. No other details of the tractor accident have been given by his family. The fundraising page states that Gattis is survived by his wife Penny, whom he married in 2014, as well as 8-year-old daughter McKenzie and 4-year-old son DeLaney. The page also asks for donations to help the family with the funeral expenses and other needs.
A Talented Musician and Songwriter
Gattis was born on May 26, 1970, in Georgetown, Texas. He began making music when he was 16, forming a trio that played around his hometown. He later won a statewide talent competition that gave him the opportunity to perform before more than 20,000 people at a national convention. He moved to Nashville after college and signed a record deal with RCA Nashville in 1991. He released his self-titled debut album in 1996, which featured the single “Little Drops of My Heart”. The album received critical acclaim but failed to achieve commercial success.
Gattis continued to pursue his musical passion as a songwriter, instrumentalist, and producer. He wrote songs for Randy Travis, George Jones, George Strait, Willie Nelson, Kenny Chesney, Kid Rock, Randy Houser, Charlie Robison, Gary Allan, Ashley Monroe, Allison Moorer, Waylon Payne, Miranda Lambert, Wade Bowen, Sara Evans, Dwight Yoakam, Brandy Clark, Randy Rogers Band, Eli Young Band, and others. He also played guitar on sessions with Dwight Yoakam, Bruce Robison, and Jon Pardi. He produced albums for Randy Houser, Wade Bowen, Cory Morrow, Waylon Payne, Kendell Marvel, and Micky & the Motorcars.
Gattis had several songs that became hits for other artists. Kenny Chesney recorded two of Gattis’ songs for his 2012 album Welcome to the Fishbowl: “El Cerrito Place”, which was previously on Gattis’ 2005 album Big City Blues and also recorded by Charlie Robison featuring Natalie Maines; and “I’m a Small Town”. Chesney also co-wrote with Gattis his 2013 single “When I See This Bar” from the album Life on a Rock. George Strait released Gattis’ co-write with Tom Douglas “I Got a Car” as a single in 2013 and also wrote several songs with Gattis for his 2015 album Cold Beer Conversation.
Gattis also had numerous film and television placements for his songs. His song “Reconsider” was featured in the movie The Jacket starring Adrien Brody and Keira Knightley. His song “Border Lord” was used in the movie Sicario starring Emily Blunt and Benicio Del Toro. His song “I’m Not Going Anywhere” was performed by Clare Bowen on the TV show Nashville.
A Beloved Friend and Mentor
Gattis was not only a talented musician and songwriter but also a beloved friend and mentor to many in the country music industry. After his death, many country stars shared their memories and tributes to him on social media. Jake Owen and Kendell Marvel were among the first to express their grief and gratitude for Gattis. Jon Randall, Wade Bowen, Chase Bryant and John Osborne of Brothers Osborne also posted heartfelt messages about their friend.
Marvel credited Gattis with helping launch his career and wrote on Instagram: “I know people say this all the time but I mean it with all my heart when I say I would not be out here doing what I’m doing today without Gattis. He was not only a great guitar slinger/songwriter/singer/producer he was also a great friend.”
Osborne praised Gattis as a giant in the Nashville community and wrote on Twitter: “Keith Gattis was the most real person you’d ever meet in your life. An extraordinary talent on every level… Was lucky to get [to] know you Keith. You and your music have made an impact that will outlive us all.”
Gattis’ legacy will live on through his music and his family. He will be missed by many who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, Keith Gattis.
