In a post titled "Saying Goodbye to My Hero," Brad Paisley paid tribute to country legend Little Jimmy Dickens, who recently died at age 94. The "Whiskey Lullaby" singer opened for the Grand Ole Opry star when he was starting out in the music business. Dickens was also a favorite guest at the CMAs in recent years, clowning around with Paisley as he hosted alongside Carrie Underwood.
"Why was he my hero? Jimmy made more out of his time on earth than anyone I've ever known; an incredible life in every measurable way," Paisley wrote on his website. "Longevity? Yes, practically unheard of. Faith? Totally and wholeheartedly. Humor? There was no one funnier, or with a better sense of it."
Paisley called Dickens the best entertainer he has ever seen, adding that "he was the best friend any human being could ask for. Bar none."
"Love? This was a big one. I think he loved everyone he ever met, and if not, he never let it be known. More importantly, I think everyone who ever met him loved him instantly...and forever," he wrote.
Dickens was known for hits like "May the Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose" and "Take an Old Cold Tater (and Wait)," which earned him the nickname "Tater" from buddy Hank Williams.
"Do not mourn Little Jim. Celebrate him. Relive and share the memories. Aspire to be like him. And above all, laugh at the punchlines, the craziness, and the way he so gracefully made this planet a funnier, better, richer place while he was alive. And in doing so, he will continue to for years to come," Paisley wrote.
Readers: What was your fondest memory of Little Jimmy Dickens? Did you enjoy him and Paisley at the CMAs? Let us know what you think down in the comments section.
