Dozens of artists and music industry executives--and even the President of the United States--issued statements on Friday (9/12) in memory of Johnny Cash [ tickets ]. A sampling of those remembrances follows.

Dozens of artists and music industry executives--and even the President of the United States--issued statements on Friday (9/12) in memory of Johnny Cash. A sampling of those remembrances follows.

"It's a sad day in country music today. Johnny Cash's voice was arguably one of the most recognizable and influential in country music. It's devastating to lose two great country artists in the same year. Johnny Cash and his wife June Carter Cash were truly a dynamic force in shaping the music industry. Our thoughts and prayers are with their family." --Dixie Chicks

Bigger then any musical genre was Johnny Cash. He was an American music icon that set the standard for how to make music on your own terms. We will miss him." -- Tim McGraw

"I'm just shocked and saddened and still finding myself stunned by the news of his passing, but am eternally grateful for ever having had the opportunity to know him and to share a friendship with him. I will be forever honored that John allowed me the privilege of his company." --Dwight Yoakam

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of my children's grandfather and my very dear friend. I loved big John with all my heart. The citizens of the world have lost one of their most enduring guiding lights. As a musical hero to millions, a trailblazing artist, humanitarian, spiritual leader, social commentator and most importantly, patriarch to one of the most varied and colorful extended families imaginable, Johnny Cash will, like Will Rogers, stand forever as a symbol of intelligence, creativity, compassion and common sense. I'm thinking Mt. Rushmore." -- Rodney Crowell

"Johnny Cash was one of the most amazing people to grace the Earth. His talents as a songwriter and an artist speak for themselves. I'm grateful to Rick Rubin for the opportunity to work him and Johnny on "American IV: The Man Comes Around." It was a true honor. To witness him receive his first Gold record in 30 years was one of the proudest moments for all of us at Lost Highway. He and Rick made beautiful music together. Johnny Cash was a beautiful person." --Luke Lewis, President Lost Highway/Chairman UMG Nashville

"Johnny Cash is not only a monument to country music but to all genres of music. We all should be proud that Johnny Cash extended his talents as a gentleman and an artist to create the foundation of country music." --Steve Holy

"Even though all of us try to wear black, there will only ever be one Man In Black. I hate to see our outlaw heroes leave because they have influenced country music so much. I don't know that anyone can stand on the mountain like they have." --Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry

"Johnny Cash was an international ambassador for country music and a musical trailblazer throughout his life, possessing one of the most recognizable names, faces and voices the world has ever known. Recording music in six different decades, Cash remained one of the music industry's most vital and important artists throughout his life as demonstrated by his recent nominations for four CMA Awards, as well as the myriad of honors and praise bestowed upon him during the last year. It is incomprehensible to imagine what country music would have been like without Johnny Cash and his music. Through the years CMA honored him with six CMA Awards (including Entertainer of the Year in 1969) and inducted him into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1980. We are deeply saddened by his loss, but find comfort in knowing that his music and influence will live forever." --Ed Benson, Executive Director of the Country Music Association

Johnny Cash was a music legend and American icon whose career spanned decades and genres. His resonant voice and human compassion reached the hearts and souls of generations, and he will be missed. Laura joins me in sending our thoughts and prayers to his family. --President George W. Bush