John Hadley, the iconic “Renaissance Man” whose contributions spanned songwriting, comedy, art, and more, has passed away at the age of 81. A prolific and highly respected figure in multiple creative fields, Hadley’s work left an indelible mark on music, television, and the arts.
Over the course of his career, Hadley penned more than 1,000 songs, earning recognition from artists such as George Jones, Waylon Jennings, Garth Brooks, and the Dixie Chicks, among many others. He also founded Hadley Six Music, his own publishing company, further solidifying his entrepreneurial legacy. Some of his most notable works include Garth Brooks’ “Pushing Up Daisies,” Waylon Jennings’ “Reno and Me,” and the Dixie Chicks’ “Hello Mr. Heartache.” Hadley’s collaborations with fellow songwriters, especially his frequent partnerships with David Olney, produced hundreds of songs that became mainstays in country and folk music.
A beloved figure among his peers, Hadley was known for his collaborative spirit, rarely performing in public but always working behind the scenes to craft enduring music. His work with the bluegrass band Country Gazette and fellow songwriters such as Kevin Welch and Tim O’Brien further cemented his place in the songwriting community.
Before making a name for himself in music, Hadley appeared as a writer and performer on the Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, showcasing his comedic talents. He also spent over two decades as an art professor at the University of Oklahoma, where his work as a painter and illustrator gained him high-profile exhibitions. His artistic creations, filled with humor and wit, were just as highly regarded as his musical compositions, leaving many surprised to learn of his dual careers.
Hadley’s diverse talents also extended to opera composition, and he authored several books, including his popular Boogers and Hangnails series, for which he provided his own illustrations. His ability to seamlessly navigate between mediums—whether through music, visual art, or comedy—exemplified his boundless creativity and his relentless drive to express himself in every form available.
A longtime resident of Norman, Oklahoma, Hadley balanced his life between his hometown and frequent trips to Nashville for songwriting sessions. He also maintained a cabin in Tennessee, affectionately known as the “Fiddleback Shack,” a quirky reminder of his enduring connection to both country music and his offbeat sense of humor.
John Hadley’s legacy as a true Renaissance man will live on through his vast body of work across multiple artistic disciplines, touching the lives of countless fans, fellow artists, and collaborators.
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