Dale Morris, Nashville Manager Who Guided Careers of Alabama & Kenny Chesney, Dies at 89

Dale Morris, the legendary Nashville artist manager who helped build the superstar careers of Alabama and Kenny Chesney , has died.

He was 89.

Morris died peacefully in his sleep Friday night (Aug.

21), his representatives said.

A specific cause of death was not provided.

Related Gone But Not Forgotten: Musicians We Lost in 2026 Paradigm Adds Kenny Chesney & Old Dominion to Roster Following Acquisition of Morris Higham’s Booking Biz Management in Country Music “He lived a big, bold, beautiful, blessed life, and I’m holding onto that right now,” Clint Higham, president of Morris Higham Management, said in a statement about his mentor and longtime business partner.

“It’s the end of an era.” Morris began his career in the music industry as a songwriter, penning Johnny Paycheck’s 1967 single “Don’t Monkey With Another Monkey’s Monkey” before turning his attention to the business side.

After launching Dale Morris & Associates, Morris was introduced to the up-and-coming band Alabama in 1979 at The Bowery in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Under his management, Alabama went on to score 33 No.

1 hits on Billboard ’s Hot Country Songs chart — the most among duos or groups — and became an unstoppable touring force, bringing production values on par with those of the era’s biggest rock acts.

In the early 1990s, Morris forged a professional relationship with aspiring country singer Chesney, who would go on to become a Country Music Hall of Famer and one of the highest-grossing country touring artists of all time, according to Billboard Boxscore .

Chesney also holds the record for the most No.

1 songs on Billboard ’s Country Airplay chart, with 33.

Morris’ other clients included Martina McBride, Barbara Mandrell, Jake Owen, Old Dominion, Brandon Lay, Ryan Griffin and Walker County.