Jim Ed Brown: “I’m Going to Beat This Little Thing Called Cancer”

Jim Ed Brown

Grand Ole Opry member Jim Ed Brown took to social media today (Sept. 3o) to announce that he has lung cancer. Brown was diagnosed with cancer two weeks ago. “At the time, I was in shock and didn’t know what that really meant,” he said. Doctors have recommended that he take the next four months off from touring to focus on chemotherapy and radiation treatments. “I will keep you all updated on the progress,” he said. “I am forever grateful for the love, support, and prayers during this time.”

Brown shares, “I’m going to beat this little thing called cancer and I’m going to be alright.” Within hours of posting the news on FaceBook, the post has already garnered over 100,000 views and well-wishers were quick to send their prayers and thoughts to the popular Opry member.

Brown first rose to fame in the 1950s with his sisters Maxine and Bonnie as the RCA Nashville trio The Browns. They notched the hits “I Heard The Bluebirds Sing” and “I Take The Chance.”

In 1967 he garnered what would become a signature solo song for Jim Ed, “Pop A Top.” He also had the crossover pop hit “Morning.” Other solo hits included “Southern Loving” and “It’s That Time of Night,” among others.

The Browns were inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 1963. In 1975, Jim Ed began co-hosting the weekly television series Nashville on the Road. He also partnered with Helen Cornelius for several hit songs as a duo. Their hit “I Don’t Want To Have To Marry You” topped the charts in 1976, and they were named the CMA Vocal Duo of the Year in 1977.

Jim Ed continued his work in television, hosting You Can Be A Star in 1983, and co-hosting the travel program Going Our Way on TNN with his wife Becky.