Sad Farewell to Ferlin Husky
Ferlin Huskey was born on 3 December 1925 and found his calling in life during World War II while serving as a United States Merchant Marine by entertaining the troops. His love for music, performing and bringing joy to the audience confirmed that music was the career path he should follow. Huskey was active in the music industry from 1945 until this year, but tragically passed away on Thursday, 17 March 2001, due to congestive heart failure. He was 85 years of age, and it is a sad loss for family, friends, fans and the music industry.
Husky was also known to the music industry as Simon Crum and Terry Preston. He signed with Capitol Records in the year 1953, using his own name. His initial attempts at a good single did not do so well, but A Dear John Letter and Forgive Me John hit number one. I Feel Better All Over was released in 1955, and Country Music Is Here To Stay held the number two position for three weeks in 1959. The 1950s were good for Ferlin Husky, as other hits such as Wings of a Dove and Gone both hit the top of the charts for ten consecutive weeks. Ferlin Husky was such a diverse artist; he even began to start in television programs and movies.
The 1960s and early 1970s were quiet years for Husky in regard to releasing chart topping hits, but he did release Once in 1967 and Just For You in 1968. Husky made the move from Capitol Records to ABC Records in 1972. After the move he enjoyed a number of singles that made it to the Top 40 list, with Rosie Cries A Lot being a huge success in 1973. After having heart surgery in 1977, Husky retired from the music industry temporarily, but continued his tours to sold out crowds.
Husky was not able to overcome his heart condition, with another surgery in 2005 and being admitted to hospital with congestive heart failure in 2009. The Country Music Association inducted Husky into the Country Music Hall of Fame on 23 February 2010, and honored by the West St Francois County High School in January of 2011. In return, he donated memorabilia, including his hall of fame award. Ferlin Husky will be sincerely missed by all and left a wonderful legacy behind with his music and unique talent.
