David Allan Coe
#
203
Ranking
BIRTHDATE
BIRTHPLACE
Akron
,
OH
,
USA
86
6
'
3
"
DIED
David Allan Coe is a pivotal figure in outlaw country. His biggest hits include "You Never Even Called Me by My Name," "The Ride," and "Mona Lisa Lost Her Smile." Tanya Tucker’s "Would You Lay With Me" and Johnny Paycheck’s "Take This Job and Shove It," both written by Coe, hit number one. "Take This Job" earned a 1978 Grammy nomination. Coe collaborated with Pantera on Rebel Meets Rebel and toured with Kid Rock. His 1986 album Son of the South was critically acclaimed.
Early Life
Born in Akron, Ohio, David Allan Coe experienced a troubled childhood in a broken home and spent much of his youth in reform schools where he began writing songs after being influenced by singer Johnny Ace and encouraged by fellow inmate Screamin' Jay Hawkins.
Career Highlights
David Allan Coe moved to Nashville in 1967 and busked outside the Ryman Auditorium while living in a hearse before signing with SSS International to release his 1969 debut album Penitentiary Blues. His career breakout followed a move to Columbia Records where he recorded the 1975 hit You Never Even Called Me by My Name and wrote chart-toppers for other artists like Tanya Tucker and Johnny Paycheck. Fans also recognize him as a pioneer of the 1970s outlaw country movement and for his later collaboration with the metal band Pantera.
Family & Personal Life
David Allan Coe was married six times and was survived by his wife Kimberly Hastings whom he married in 2010. He had several children including Tyler Mahan Coe, the creator of the Cocaine and Rhinestones podcast, and daughter Shelli Coe who performed on his 1978 Family Album project. A former member of the Outlaws Motorcycle Club, Coe was known for his rebellious lifestyle and once claimed to have multiple wives during a period where he identified as Mormon.
