George Jones

Country music artists and fans are reeling from the news that George Jones died earlier today.

George Jones died today at the age of 81.

The legendary George Jones has been admitted to a Nashville hospital after a routine checkup revealed a slight fever and irregular blood pressure. A statement from the singer's publicist says he is being kept for observation, and weekend shows scheduled for Atlanta, Ga. and Salem, Va. have been postponed.

After suffering from an upper respiratory infection and canceling a number of his 2012 tour dates, George Jones has finally received some good news. On Memorial Day weekend, he can stop resting his vocal chords and return to the stage — and at the Loretta Lynn Ranch, of all places.

53 years ago today, George Jones scored his first number one country single with "White Lightning."