BMI Remembers Country Songwriter Keith Gattis

BMI mourns the loss of singer/songwriter Keith Gattis, who passed away on April 23 at age 52. The Texas native was a renowned songwriter and guitarist whose melancholy voice, prolific guitar skills and poignant lyrics have left an indelible mark on Music City.

Gattis began his career in Nashville in 1996 and went on to write hit songs for major artists including Kenny Chesney and George Strait. Gattis notably wrote Chesney's hit "El Cerrito Place" (which also appeared on Gattis' album Big City Blues). He was a talented and trusted collaborator for Nashville's biggest names, having had songs released by legends like George Jones, Willie Nelson, Gary Allan, and many more. Beyond his singing and songwriting, he toured as Johnny Paycheck's guitar player, acted as Dwight Yoakam's band leader and producer, and produced records for Waylon Payne, Kendall Marvel, Wade Bowen, and Randy Houser at his Pioneertown Recording studio.

Keith Gattis will be greatly missed by his friends, fans, and family at BMI.