Legendary Country Songwriter Don Schlitz Dies at 73

The Grammy-winning writer behind hits like 'The Gambler' and 'Forever and Ever, Amen' passed away suddenly in Nashville.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 2:54pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of the worn and textured surface of an acoustic guitar, capturing the instrument's weathered beauty in dramatic high-contrast lighting to symbolize the enduring legacy of the songwriter who played it.The guitar that carried Don Schlitz's legendary songwriting talent now stands silent, a poignant reminder of the profound impact he left on country music.Durham Today

Don Schlitz, the acclaimed country music songwriter known for penning timeless hits like 'The Gambler,' 'On the Other Hand,' and 'Forever and Ever, Amen,' died on Thursday at a Nashville hospital at the age of 73. The cause of death was not immediately known, but the Grand Ole Opry described it as a sudden illness.

Why it matters

Schlitz was a towering figure in country music, having been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. His songs have been recorded by some of the biggest stars in the genre and have become deeply embedded in the fabric of country music culture.

The details

The two-time Grammy winner made his Grand Ole Opry debut in 2017 and was later inducted in 2022, becoming the only non-artist to receive that honor in the Opry's 100-year history. Schlitz was also named ASCAP Country Songwriter of the Year for four consecutive years from 1988 to 1991. In addition to his country hits, he wrote music and lyrics for the 1999 Broadway musical 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer'.

  • Schlitz died on Thursday, April 17, 2026 at a Nashville hospital.
  • He made his Grand Ole Opry debut in 2017.
  • Schlitz was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 2022.

The players

Don Schlitz

A storied country music songwriter known for hits like 'The Gambler,' 'On the Other Hand,' and 'Forever and Ever, Amen.' He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Kenny Rogers

A country music superstar who recorded Schlitz's hit song 'The Gambler' in 1978, which went on to be certified five times platinum.

Randy Travis

A country music singer who recorded Schlitz's hits 'On the Other Hand' and 'Forever and Ever, Amen'.

Sarah Trahern

The CEO of the Country Music Association, who paid tribute to Schlitz's legacy in a statement.

Kyle Young

The CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, who also honored Schlitz's impact as a songwriter.

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What they’re saying

“Don doesn't just write songs. He writes careers.”

— Kenny Rogers, Country Music Star

“Don Schlitz's place as a songwriting great would be secure had he never written 'The Gambler' or had he only written 'The Gambler.'”

— Kyle Young, CEO, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

“We are heartbroken by the news of the passing of Don Schlitz. Don loved his family, his home state of North Carolina, and above all, songs and songwriters. He carried that love into every room, every stage and every lyric he ever wrote.”

— Sarah Trahern, CEO, Country Music Association

What’s next

The Grand Ole Opry has announced that its Saturday night show will be dedicated in Schlitz's honor.

The takeaway

Don Schlitz's enduring legacy as one of country music's most celebrated and influential songwriters will continue to inspire generations of artists and fans alike. His timeless hits have become woven into the fabric of the genre, cementing his place as a true titan of country music.