Hal Ketchum

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Hal Ketchum (April 9, 1953 – November 23, 2020) was an American country music artist. He released 11 studio albums from 1986 to 2014, including his gold-certified debut album Past the Point of Rescue. Ketchum had 17 entries on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts from 1991 to 2006, including three number two hits.

Early Life

Hal Michael Ketchum was born in Greenwich, New York. He began playing the drums at age 15 and soon moved to Austin, Texas, where he began performing in small clubs. Ketchum's early influences included The Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Merle Haggard.

Music Career

Ketchum's debut album, Threadbare Alibis, was released in 1986. He signed with Curb Records in 1991 and released Past the Point of Rescue, which included the hit singles "Small Town Saturday Night" and "Past the Point of Rescue". The album was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

Ketchum's follow-up album, Sure Love, was released in 1992 and produced three Top 10 hits: "Sure Love", "Hearts Are Gonna Roll", and "Mama Knows the Highway". His subsequent albums included Every Little Word (1994), I Saw the Light (1998), and Lucky Man (2001).

Personal Life

Ketchum was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1998, which significantly impacted his career. Despite his health challenges, he continued to perform and record music. He was also an accomplished painter and carpenter.

Death

Hal Ketchum passed away on November 23, 2020, at the age of 67, due to complications from dementia.

Discography

• Threadbare Alibis (1986)
• Past the Point of Rescue (1991)
• Sure Love (1992)
• Every Little Word (1994)
• I Saw the Light (1998)
• Lucky Man (2001)
• The King of Love (2003)
• One More Midnight (2007)
• Father Time (2008)
• I'm the Troubadour (2014)

Awards and Nominations

Ketchum was nominated for several awards throughout his career, including the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association awards.

Legacy

Hal Ketchum is remembered for his contributions to country music and his distinctive voice. His songs continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.

See Also

• List of country music performers
• Curb Records
• Multiple sclerosis