Joe Diffie performs “Third Rock From the Sun” at one of his final concerts prior to his death.
On October 8, 2019, country music fans gathered at the Dixie Classic Fair for a performance they would cherish forever because little did they know, it would be one of Joe Diffie’s last.
Diffie, known for his rich deep-sounding country music songs, took the stage for one of his final shows accompanied by a band of two keyboardists, a drummer, an electric bass player, and a regular electric guitar player. Diffie, in his classic blue jean jacket and acoustic guitar, walked towards an eager crowd with a simple question to ask them, “Are we ready?” The response was, of course, a yeah.
Without further ado, Diffie launched into one of his well-known songs, “Third Rock From the Sun” and everyone knew when he started to sing, that man had talent.
Joe Diffie’s career and beginnings.
Joe Diffie’s career began when he signed with Epic Records’ Nashville division in 1990 and he charted 35 singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Five of these singles reached the number one spot, including “Home,” “If the Devil Danced (In Empty Pockets),” “Pickup Man,” and “Bigger Than the Beatles.”
His impact extended beyond his own recordings. Diffie was a songwriter, contributing hits for artists like Holly Dunn, Tim McGraw, and Jo Dee Messina. Also doing collaborations with names in the industry, such as Mary Chapin Carpenter, George Jones, and Marty Stuart, showcased his traditional history.
Diffie’s discography included multiple studio albums, with Honky Tonk Attitude and “Third Rock from the Sun earning platinum certifications from the Recording Industry Association of America. His style was a mixture of neotraditionalist country, novelty songs, and heartfelt ballads.
Tragically, on March 29, 2020, Joe Diffie passed away due to complications related to COVID-19. His music remains a lasting legacy, touching the hearts of countless fans. The performance at Dixie Classic Fair serves as a poignant memory of his talent and his enduring contribution to the world of country music.
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Watch Joe Diffie perform “Third Rock From The Sun” at the Dixie Classic Fair on October 8th, 2019, in the video below.