Hardy Unites Country Stars For Heartfelt Tribute Album To Joe Diffie

Hardy enlisted the help of dozens of country artists to join him in the creation of Hixtape: Vol. 3: Difftape — a tribute album to the late Joe Diffie. The country singer first announced his intentions after the 2023 CMA Awards, but no one could have expected him to wrangle 30 artists to get into the studio and sing some of Diffie's most famous lyrics. And yet, he did it.

With this ambitious project, Hardy aims to honor the legacy of Joe Diffie, a beloved figure in the country music scene. The album features a lineup that showcases the incredible talent and camaraderie within the country music community, as artists come together to pay homage to Diffie's influential career. It's a celebration of music that transcends generations and highlights the impact Diffie had on the genre.

As the album unfolds, listeners will be treated to a blend of iconic vocals, heartfelt performances, and a sense of nostalgia that only tribute albums can evoke. In addition to Hardy’s contributions, fans can expect to hear beloved artists like Luke Bryan, Lainey Wilson, and Reba McEntire, creating a truly memorable experience. This project not only commemorates Diffie's music but also serves as a reminder of the connections forged through shared passion for country music.

Table of Contents

• Who Is on Hardy's Joe Diffie Tribute Album?
• How Did Joe Diffie Die?
• Celebrating Diffie's Legacy
• Final Thoughts

Who Is on Hardy's Joe Diffie Tribute Album?

With 30 artists named on the project, the list of talent is longer than a CVS receipt. In addition to Hardy's voice, you'll hear Diffie's iconic vocals intertwined, sharing lyrics with those who lined up to honor him. The collaboration showcases the diversity and richness of talent within the country music genre.

In his final recording, the late Toby Keith is featured on "Ships That Don't Come In" alongside Luke Combs. The song is already a somber tune, but coupled with the fact that Keith died before the song was released, it makes it almost unbearable to listen to. However, his strong vocals are a welcome sound on the 1992 hit.

Others listed on the album include country superstars Luke Bryan, Lainey Wilson, and Reba McEntire, making this tribute a true celebration of Joe Diffie's contributions to music.

How Did Joe Diffie Die?

Diffie passed away on March 29, 2020, due to complications after contracting COVID-19. He tested positive for the virus just two days prior and was 61 years old at the time of his death.

The country veteran signed his first record deal with Epic Records Nashville in 1990. He spent much of the previous ten years as a demo singer, but his new deal was his chance to make his own music. Throughout the 1990s, Diffie released several chart-topping hits including "Pickup Man" and "Third Rock From the Sun." He also wrote several other songs that were recorded by other country artists.

He released his final album, I Got This, in 2019, leaving behind a rich legacy of music that continues to resonate with fans.

Celebrating Diffie's Legacy

Hardy didn't hold anything back when it came to putting together a tribute album for the late Joe Diffie. He invited just about everyone in country music to join him on the project, and dozens of artists accepted. Hixtape: Vol. 3: Difftape is a celebration of Diffie's music and a true honoring of his influence on the country genre.

This album not only showcases the incredible talent of Hardy and his collaborators but also serves as a testament to the lasting impact of Joe Diffie's work on country music. From heartfelt ballads to upbeat anthems, the songs selected for this tribute span a range of emotions and musical styles, reflecting the versatility of Diffie's artistry.

Final Thoughts

As listeners dive into Hixtape: Vol. 3: Difftape, they are bound to feel a wave of nostalgia and appreciation for the music of Joe Diffie. This tribute album is an essential collection for both longtime fans and newcomers to the country genre, serving as a reminder of the power of music to bring people together.

Join Hardy and the many artists who celebrated Joe Diffie's legacy, and experience the heartfelt performances that honor one of country music's most cherished icons.