Loretta Lynn, one of the great singer-songwriters of the last century – as well as one of the most spirited entertainers of all time – has died at the age of 90. Best known for “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” the title of her signature song, album, and later memoir, Lynn, born in Butcher Holler, Kentucky, never refrained from using music to speak her mind on issues pertaining to the head and the heart.

Her direct nature, fused with specific homely details, made for an indelible storytelling style through song that influenced generations of performers (mostly female) to come. She then found new life and renewed interest when the film adaptation of her memoir was released: Sissy Spacek’s Oscar-winning portrayal is one of the great biopic and musical performances ever captured on film. Lynn continued to tour and perform into her eighties – an indomitable force in every way until the end.

Career highlights:

“You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” (1966)

“Don’t Come Home a Drinkin’ (With Lovin’ on Your Mind)” (1966)

“Wings Upon Your Horns” (1969)

“Coal Miner’s Daughter” (1970)

“The Pill” (1975)

“Somebody Somewhere (Don’t Know What He’s Missin’ Tonight) ” (1976)

Van Lear Rose (2004)