Departures of note

Dale Morris was one of the most influential figures in Nashville music management, best known for guiding the careers of two of country music's biggest acts. He helped build the group Alabama into one of the most successful country bands in history, and later forged the superstar career of Kenny Chesney nearly from scratch. His work as a manager and promoter made him a respected and powerful presence in the country music industry for decades.

Before his management career, Morris worked as a sales representative for a drug company and later as vice president of sales and record promotion at Cartwheel Records, where he helped launch the country career of Billy "Crash" Craddock. He eventually left the label to manage Craddock directly before taking on Alabama and later Kenny Chesney, whom he managed alongside Clint Hime.

Morris died in his sleep at age 89, with a representative noting that he lived a big, bold, beautiful, blessed life. He is remembered as a titan of Nashville management whose guidance shaped the careers of some of country music's most enduring stars.