David Allan Coe, an American country singer and songwriter, died on April 29, 2026, at the age of 86.
He was known for songs including “Mona Lisa Lost Her Smile” and “The Ride,” and for writing “Take This Job and Shove It.” Born in Akron, Ohio, on September 9, 1939, Coe began his music career after spending much of his early life in reform schools and prisons. He first gained notice busking in Nashville, initially performing mostly blues before moving into country music and becoming part of the 1970s outlaw country scene.
His career spanned from 1967 to 2026.
David Allan Coe, 86, American country singer (“Mona Lisa Lost Her Smile”, “The Ride”) and songwriter (“Take This Job and Shove It”).