User login

The Idaho Statesman is pleased to offer this opportunity to share information and observations about what's in the news. Some comments may be reprinted elsewhere in the site or in the newspaper. We encourage lively, open debate but ask that you remain on topic. Comments that are profane, personal attacks or otherwise inappropriate are subject to removal. To register a complaint about another user's conduct, please send an e-mail to onlinenews@idahostatesman.com.

You'll be missed, Jerry Reed

Submitted by Michael Deeds on Tue, 09/02/2008 - 11:01pm.

It bummed me out intensely when I discovered that Jerry Reed had died today.

Reed is easily among the most-played artists on my iPod. "East Bound and Down"? "When You're Hot, You're Hot"? Terrific songs.

Reed was a one-of-a-kind entertainer. I first encountered him in the "Smokey and the Bandit" movies. (Being a kid at the time, I felt they were spectacular, of course.) But Reed also was a staple of the staticky AM radio my father played around the house. Reed was a gifted guitar picker who cut records with Chet Atkins, but he was better known for his humorous country-pop hits. (Dude could really imitate Willie Nelson and George Jones.)

Reed's death, combined with the news of the passing of voiceover guru Don LaFontaine, has made for a rough entertainment day.

Here's hoping the good Lord finally gave you the gold mine, Jerry.