Ronnie Bowman, a highly respected figure in country and bluegrass music, has died at the age of 64.
According to multiple reports, Bowman sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident in Ashland City, Tennessee and passed away Sunday afternoon at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
Widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in bluegrass over the past several decades, Bowman was born in Mount Airy, North Carolina. He began gaining recognition in 1987 after joining the bluegrass group The Lost and Found, and later became a longtime member of Lonesome River Band, performing with them from 1990 through 2021.
The band earned major acclaim for its 1991 album Carrying the Tradition, which won Album of the Year at the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA).
More Read
As a solo artist, Bowman released six albums, beginning with Cold Virginia Night in 1994 and concluding with his self-titled album in 2019. His solo work also earned significant recognition, including IBMA Album of the Year for Cold Virginia Night in 1995. He was honored multiple times by the IBMA, including three Male Vocalist of the Year awards.
Beyond performing, Bowman made a lasting impact as a songwriter. He co-wrote “Nobody to Blame” and “Outlaw State of Mind” with Chris Stapleton—both featured on Stapleton’s acclaimed album Traveller.
More Read
His songwriting credits also include:
- “The Healing Kind,” recorded by Lee Ann Womack on Hope You Dance
- “It’s Getting Better All the Time,” recorded by Brooks & Dunn
- “Never Wanted Nothing More,” co-written with Stapleton and recorded by Kenny Chesney on Just Who I Am: Poets & Pirates
Bowman’s influence as both a vocalist and songwriter leaves a lasting legacy in bluegrass and country music.
