Ervine’s legacy was also honored by Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum,
who acknowledged his influence on the careers of other country musicians, such as Dierks Bentley, Clay Walker, and Lee Ann Womack.
“We might never have heard of George Strait if it weren’t for Erv Woolsey’s cunning and perseverance,” he said to Variety. “When Erv saw Strait perform in a Texas club in 1975,
he was instantly a supporter and admirer, even though several people thought the singer sounded too conventional. In 1981, Erv, an executive at MCA Records,
encouraged Strait to get signed and encouraged him to stick with his original style and sound. After then, Strait rose to fame and brought back the traditions of country music. Young said,
“We all owe Erv Woolsey a tremendous debt of gratitude for standing by his principles and consistently encouraging artists and up-and-coming talent.” George Strait and the bereaved families of his two close pals are in our thoughts and prayers.
