Ronnie Bowman, the legendary bluegrass artist who wrote hits for Chris Stapleton and Kenny Chesney, has passed away at 64.
He died on March 22 after complications from a motorcycle accident near Nashville, leaving the country and bluegrass community in shock.
Born in Mount Airy, Bowman began performing at age three with his family band. He later joined the Lonesome River Band (1990–2001) and built a celebrated career, winning multiple International Bluegrass Music Association awards, including Male Vocalist of the Year and Songwriter of the Year.
He co-wrote major hits like “It’s Getting Better All the Time,” “Never Wanted Nothing More,” and songs on Stapleton’s Traveller, including the award-winning “Nobody to Blame.”
Tributes poured in from artists like Billy Strings, Dierks Bentley, Dan Tyminski, John Carter Cash, and Rhonda Vincent, all remembering his talent, kindness, and impact.
Bowman is survived by his wife, Garnet, and their daughter. His legacy lives on through the music and lives he touched.