The Recording Academy's CEO Neil Portnow Remembers Doc Watson

The Recording Academy's President/CEO Neil Portnow released the following statement on the death of music great Doc Watson on May 29.

"Seven-time GRAMMY winner and Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Doc Watson was a singer, songwriter and guitar player known for his masterful skills as a musician and his beautiful, emotion-filled voice," Portnow said. "He toured the country with various acts and family members for nearly six decades bringing Americana music to fans everywhere, and he is highly regarded as a major influence on today’s country and folk artists. Watson’s immense talent and spirit will be deeply missed, and our sincerest sympathies go out to his family, friends and all who were inspired by his music."

Watson, 89, was known for his work as a guitarist, songwriter, and bluegrass, folk, country, blues and gospel singer. In addition to winning seven Grammy Awards, Watson was also honored with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.