Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Kitty Wells was a trailblazer for women in country music. Known as the ‘Queen of Country Music,” her songs resonated with women in an evolving post-war America, and she unassumingly paved the way for other strong female country singers, including Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton, and Tammy Wynette, among others. She performed for seven decades, and she continues to be a model for generations of female country singers. Our sincerest condolences go out to her family, friends, and all who have been inspired by her music and legacy"; wrote Neil Portnow, President/CEO, the Recording Academy. News from the Recording Academy (NARAS).