Famed Keyboardist David Briggs Dead at 82—Worked With Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and Dolly Parton

While music lovers know names like Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Kris Kristofferson, and Alice Cooper, many might not know that behind each of those stars were musicians like David Briggs. A famed keyboardist, Briggs first started his career in music at just 14 years old when working on a recording session. From that moment, his legacy in the music industry only expanded as he became part of an elite group of musicians called The Nashville Cats. Sadly, on April 22, 2025, Briggs passed away at 82 years old. 

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Over the course of his career, Briggs received the chance to work with some of the biggest stars in all genres. Besides a musician, Briggs was also an accomplished record producer, composer, and even studio owner. His contributions to the industry also led to him being inducted into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame in 1999. Just a few years ago in 2019, he landed in the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum. 

Wanting to honor his talents, the CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Kyle Young, shared a picture of Briggs. He wrote, “David Briggs (1943–2025) could play keyboards in any style. His deft touch graced records by Elvis, Willie, Dolly, Reba, and many more. He further shaped Music City in founding Quadrafonic and House of David studios. He was a man of music through and through.” 

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Fans Remember The Legacy Of David Briggs

Outside of Young, fans also shared their love for Briggs, “Sad to hear about Nashville/Muscle Shoals producer & musician, David Briggs passing away. David toured with Elvis Presley & played on nearly all of Gary Stewart’s albums… among many, many others. I got to spend a little bit of time with him a few years ago, and he was a funny, funny man. RIP Mr. Briggs.” Another comment read, “David was a hero to many of us. He will be greatly missed. Thankfully he left a treasure trove of musical memories.”

While getting the chance to play alongside Elvis on the album How Great Thou Art, Briggs received the opportunity thanks to Floyd Cramer. In May 1966, Cramer was running late for a recording session for the album. Not wanting to wait, the team turned to Briggs. And that moment led the musician touring with Elvis until 1977. 

Although passing away, fans will always remember Briggs as his legacy can be heard throughout several generations of music.

(Photo by Rick Diamond/Getty Images for Country Music Hall Of Fame & Museum)