Country Chatter

Doug Supernaw loses his battle with cancer

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Doug Supernaw, the ’90s country singer died at home in Texas on Friday (Nov. 13) after a long time battle with cancer. He was 60.

Supernaw was diagnosed in February 2019 with advanced stage IV lung and bladder cancer and underwent aggressive treatment, but the cancer spread to his liver and spine. Last month he entered hospice care.

The Bryan, Texas native was known best for hits like “Reno,” “I Don’t Call Him Daddy” and “Not Enough Hours in the Night.”

He was signed to BNA Records, a label tied to Arista Nashville and RCA Nashville. He referenced his Texas roots with the title of his first album, Red and Rio Grande, produced by Richard Landis.

After the poor reception of his 1993 debut single “Honky Tonkin’ Fool,” Supernaw garnered national attention with his second release, “Reno,” which he co-wrote. The ode for traditional country, it rose to No. 4.

Supernaw received 1993 ACM nominations for Top New Male Vocalist, and for Song of the Year for “I Don’t Call Him Daddy.” His time on BNA was short-lived, however, as the singles from 1994’s Deep Thoughts from a Shallow Mind gained little traction. The 1995 single, “What’ll You Do About Me,” rustled up some controversy as it was perceived to be sung from the point-of-view of a stalker, and peaked at No. 16.

Following the news of his passing, the country music community sent messages of mourning. “So sorry to hear of the passing of Doug Supernaw,” singer Jeannie Seely said in a statement. “Although I didn’t know him real well, he was always so friendly and nice when I did have the opportunity to be around him, and would like to have known him better. He was a great talent and very supportive of our Dottie West birthday bash.  Thank you and RIP Doug.”

“We have lost another member of the country music family,” singer Linda Davis wrote in a statement. “Fellow Texan, Doug Supernaw was a very talented man and he leaves such great music and memories for his many friends and fans. My deepest condolences go to Doug’s wife and family.”

David Ball mirrored the sentiment, writing, “After moving to East Texas, we got to know him and his lovely wife Cissy over the last few years. Keeping the family in our prayers. ‘Reno,’ what a song!

Supernaw is survived by his third wife, Cissy Allen, his children and grandchildren.