Contact: Claude Chafin 202-225-1112

Washington, May 8 - Rep. Marsha Blackburn (TN-7) was saddened today to learn of the death of Eddy Arnold.

"Chuck and I, along with our fellow Tennesseans, mourn Eddy Arnold's death. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family on this sad day. Eddy wrote the first chords of modern country music and later enthralled the nation with his popular songs. His place in the Country Music Hall of Fame and his dozens of number one hits are testimony to the creative impact Eddy had on American music. In addition to being a great artist, Eddy was a good neighbor and a great friend. I will miss our conversations. Nashville’s guitars will sound a little sadder today as all of Tennessee mourns his loss.”