Curtis Lee “Corky” Holbrook (1955–2025)

Corky Holbrook was a foundational figure in 1990s country music, known for his unmistakable bass tone, tight rhythm, and lifelong dedication to his craft. Born on January 3, 1955, in Ashland, Kentucky, Corky began his music journey early, playing in the Fairview High School Band, Pep Band, and Jazz Band under director Don Reynolds. His talent was clear from the start, and music quickly became his calling.

He first gained regional recognition as a member of the Kentucky-based group ZACHARIAH, but his national breakthrough came as the longtime bassist for Billy Ray Cyrus and the band Sly Dog. Corky’s bass playing became an essential part of the signature sound behind Cyrus’s meteoric rise in the early 1990s.

His playing on the 1992 album Some Gave All helped fuel the success of the hit single “Achy Breaky Heart,” a song that took over radio stations, honky-tonks, and dance halls across the country. Corky's bouncy, danceable bass line - built on alternating eighth-note patterns in A and E with a chromatic turnaround - was simple in structure but unforgettable in execution. As Sweetwater noted, his contribution redefined what a country bass line could be. He helped set the standard for what would become the sound of an entire decade of country music.

Corky continued performing and recording with Cyrus on several follow-up albums, including It Won’t Be the Last, Storm in the Heartland, Trail of Tears, and Southern Rain. He co-wrote the track “I’m So Miserable,” further showing his range as a musician and songwriter. His stage presence was steady and commanding, the kind of musician other players trusted to keep everything grounded.

Outside of touring and recording, Corky worked as an engineer and producer at Thunder Bay Recording Studio in Ashland. He was known for helping young musicians find their voice, offering not just technical knowledge but also encouragement and honest feedback. His time in the studio was just as impactful as his time on stage, and his fingerprints can be found on countless recordings from the region.

Corky passed away on May 14, 2025, after an extended illness. He was 70 years old. He is survived by his wife, Maureena Ramey Holbrook; two sons, Cory Vaughn Holbrook and Jazz Holbrook; three daughters, Ashley Waldroop, Erin Myers, and Summer Lambert; his sister, Patty Holbrook Greene; five grandchildren, Heaven Motylinski, Katrina Ingles, Kristen Freeman, Elijah Holbrook, and Isaac Holbrook; and his nephew, Hon. Andy Ballard.

Corky was more than a musician. He was a mentor, a storyteller, a collaborator, and a deeply devoted father and husband. His presence is missed, but his legacy lives on in every track he played, every artist he helped, and every person lucky enough to know him.

He also did taxes!