James Earl Patterson

James Earl Patterson, 90, of Nashville, Tennessee, went home to be with the Lord on January 18, 2026. A legendary session musician, James played bass on over 2,000 recordings during Nashville's golden age of country music. He performed with Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, and countless others. Born in rural Mississippi, James taught himself to play bass on a homemade instrument. He moved to Nashville in 1958 with $40 in his pocket and became one of the most sought-after musicians in town. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Betty; five children; 14 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and the countless musicians he mentored. Visitation will be at Ryman Auditorium on January 28th. A private family service will follow. The family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Nashville Musicians Association Emergency Relief Fund.