This person died in 2002 at the age of 64, Born in Littlefield, Texas, he became a radio disc jockey at 14 and formed his own band soon afterward. His resonant, authoritative voice was used to narrate The Dukes of Hazzard. Early in his career, his life nearly ended when he gave up his seat on the plane that killed Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and the Big Bopper. With Willie Nelson, he performed duets like Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys and Good Hearted Woman. Today’s dead celebrity is Waylon Jennings.

If you liked this episode, you might also like Episode 31 The Greatest (Muhammad Ali), Episode 84 Vocal Bedrock (Johnny Cash), and Episode 19 Singing Mailman (John Prine).

LINKS

Transcript of this episode

NYT Obituary for Waylon Jennings

Waylon talks about the death of Buddy Holly

In depth interview with Waylon Jennings about his autobiography

Badass stories about Waylon

Waylon and Big Bird

Dead or Alive quiz game

Famous & Gravy on Facebook, LinkedIn, Threads

Famous & Gravy official website

This edition of Famous & Gravy takes up the story of Waylon Jennings, focusing on impact and afterimage as part of a what makes a life worth remembering and known for legacy podcast, with attention to narrative framing, persona shifts, and media influence. Through reflection and structure, the episode reveals how fame evolves after death. This show explores life lessons from celebrities and contributes to obituary-based storytelling.

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