Legendary Producer And Country Music Executive Fred Foster Has Died

Fred Foster

ALL ACCESS extends condolences to the family and friends of legendary NASHVILLE music industry figure FRED FOSTER, who passed away last night (2/20) following a short illness. He was 87. 

FOSTER formed and led MONUMENT RECORDS, which released recordings from KRIS KRISTOFFERSON, WILLIE NELSON, ROY ORBISON, DOLLY PARTON, and many other Country stars. He also founded the publishing company COMBINE MUSIC, whose hits included KRISTOFFERSON’s "Me and Bobby McGee" and "Help Me Make It Through the Night," ORBISON’s “Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)," and TONY JOE WHITE’S "Polk Salad Annie." He produced the debut singles for both PARTON and JIMMY DEAN, as well as KRISTOFFERSON’S first album and some early 1960s recordings for ORBISON. He also produced projects for NELSON, RAY PRICE and others.

In addition to the COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME, which inducted him in 2016, he was also a member of the NORTH CAROLINA HALL OF FAME and the MUSICIANS HALL OF FAME.

"I revere FRED FOSTER, the legend who brought us the gritty genius of KRIS KRISTOFFERSON, the enduring hits of ROY ORISON, and the abiding talent of DOLLY PARTON,” said COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM CEO KYLE YOUNG. “But today, I'm also mourning FRED FOSTER, the legend who brought me laughter, goodwill, and fried pies. 'Foster' was the only fitting surname for this man, who fostered artistry, individuality, and broad-minded decency.”

A memorial service is being planned for MARCH, with details to be announced soon.

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