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Country Music Legend Pete Finney Dies at 70
The Country Music Hall of Fame pays tribute to the acclaimed steel guitarist and session musician.
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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The country music world is mourning the loss of legendary steel guitarist Pete Finney, who passed away at the age of 70. The Country Music Hall of Fame announced Finney's death, praising him as a widely admired Nashville musician who exemplified how top instrumentalists can adapt to a remarkable range of styles and settings.
Why it matters
Finney was a highly respected and versatile musician who backed many of country music's biggest stars over his decades-long career. His death represents a significant loss for the country music community, as he was known for his extensive knowledge of American music history and his ability to seamlessly blend into various musical contexts.
The details
Throughout his career, Finney backed numerous country music icons such as the Chicks, Vince Gill, the Judds, Reba McEntire, and Patty Loveless. He toured with Loveless for over 20 years and was touring with McEntire when a tragic plane crash killed eight members of her band and two crew members in 1991. Finney survived the crash by flying on a separate plane. In addition to his country music work, Finney also collaborated with artists outside the genre, including Michael Nesmith of the Monkees and a diverse array of other musicians.
- Pete Finney passed away on Saturday, February 8, 2026.
- Finney was 70 years old at the time of his death.
The players
Pete Finney
A legendary steel guitarist and session musician who was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame for his contributions to the genre over his decades-long career.
The Chicks
A popular country music group that Finney backed as a session musician.
Vince Gill
A renowned country music singer and guitarist that Finney collaborated with.
Reba McEntire
A legendary country music performer who Finney was touring with when a tragic plane crash killed members of her band in 1991.
Patty Loveless
A country music singer that Finney toured with for over 20 years.
What they’re saying
“Ah man so sorry to hear this news. What a great person and incredible player. I feel lucky we got to play many gigs together over the years. RIP Pete. It was a pleasure making music with you.”
— James Intveld (Country Music Hall of Fame)
“He was one of a kind. Heaven is a cooler, smarter place today.”
— Dave Pomeroy (Country Music Hall of Fame)
The takeaway
Pete Finney's passing represents a significant loss for the country music community, as he was a highly respected and versatile musician who left an indelible mark on the genre through his work with some of its biggest stars over the course of his decades-long career.
