The world of country music mourns the passing of a true trailblazer, Jeannie Seely, who died on Friday at the age of 85. Renowned as “Miss Country Soul,” Seely left an indelible mark on the genre, celebrated for her distinctive emotional singing and a remarkable nearly six-decade tenure at the Grand Ole Opry, solidifying her status as a revered country music legend.

Seely’s career soared with her signature 1966 smash hit, “Don’t Touch Me,” a poignant track penned by Hank Cochran. This powerful ballad ascended to No. 2 on the country charts and earned Seely her sole yet highly significant Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance, forever cementing her place in music history and showcasing her unique vocal prowess.

Beyond her chart-topping success, Jeannie Seely was affectionately known as “Miss Country Soul” due to her deeply emotional and authentic vocal delivery. She played a pivotal, pioneering role in challenging traditional norms and transforming women’s standing within the often male-dominated landscape of country music, advocating for greater recognition and influence for female artists.

Born Marilyn Jeanne Seely in July 1940 in Titusville, Pennsylvania, her musical journey began early in the small community of Townville. Music was an integral part of her family life; her mother was a talented vocalist, and her father was an accomplished banjo player, nurturing her innate talent and passion for performance from a young age.

Seely was celebrated for her bold and self-reliant spirit, notably breaking long-standing country music taboos. She famously became the first woman to wear a miniskirt on the hallowed Grand Ole Opry stage, a daring act that symbolized her commitment to personal expression and progressive thinking within the conservative country music scene.

Her association with the Grand Ole Opry began in 1967 when she officially became a member. Over the decades, Jeannie Seely amassed an astounding record of over 5,400 appearances, a testament to her enduring popularity, dedication, and the profound connection she forged with her audience, making her one of the most long-standing performers in the Opry’s storied history.

The impact of this Grammy award winner extends far beyond her hit songs and live performances. Her legacy as a pioneering artist who broadened the scope for women in country music, coupled with her unwavering commitment to authenticity, continues to inspire new generations. In a fitting tribute, Saturday’s Grand Ole Opry broadcast will be dedicated to her memory, honoring her immense contributions and lasting influence on the genre and its fans.