eddie rabbitt

It's more tragic when it's unexpected, as is the case with these country singers who died before their time.

Country music has produced some truly epic album cover artwork over the years — but it's had some duds, too.

For the week starting Feb. 10, 1979, Rabbitt hit No. 1 on the charts with "Every Which Way But Loose."

For the week starting Feb. 10, 1979, Rabbitt hit No. 1 on the charts with "Every Which Way But Loose."

No parent should ever have to bury a son or daughter -- and yet, several country stars have had to endure such a grief-filled event.

It's more tragic when it's unexpected, as is the case with these country singers who died before their time.

"Baby, there's no excuse / to turn me every which way but loose..."

There are many -- too many -- country stars who have had cancer or have been personally affected by it in some way.