LifeNotes: Mike Kennedy, Longtime Drummer for George Strait, Dies In Car Crash

Michael Kennedy, the drummer for George Strait‘s Ace in the Hole band for almost 30 years, died Friday, Aug. 31 from injuries sustained in a car accident. He was 59 years old.

The crash with a tractor trailer occurred on Interstate 40 West in Wilson County, Tennessee at approximately 3:30 p.m.

Kennedy’s career also included work with Ricky Skaggs.

Strait said in a statement, “Hard to put into words how much Mike’s passing has affected us all. Our hearts are broken. It’s going to be very strange not being able to look over and see him there in his spot on stage and very emotional as well I’m sure for all of us and also his fans. The band will never be the same. A part of us is gone forever. We all loved Mike and will miss him terribly. He was just as solid a friend to us all as he was a drummer, and that was damn solid. Our hearts and prayers are with his family. The Lord has him now. Rest In Peace my friend.”