Vernell Hackett Obituary, CHICAGO, Ill. — Vernell Hackett, a respected country music journalist, author, and longtime contributor to the music media community, passed away on Aug. 14 after experiencing cardiac arrest at a Chicago airport while traveling to Mexico for vacation. She was 77.
Hackett was widely recognized for her decades of work covering country music and for her lasting influence on music journalism. Throughout her career, she supported shape coverage of the country music industry through her writing, editing, and mentorship of emerging journalists.
Her professional journey included serving as editor of Country News, Country Rhythms, and American Songwriter magazines. Hackett was also a founder of American Songwriter and led the publication as editor-in-chief for more than a decade.
Beyond her editorial leadership, Hackett contributed as a freelance writer for numerous publications and syndicators. She was remembered within the journalism public for supporting and mentoring a number of young reporters throughout her career.
As an author, Hackett co-wrote Ghosts, Gangsters and Gamblers of Las Vegas with longtime friends Liz Cavanaugh and Michelle Honick. She also authored a biography of country music star Carrie Underwood, further expanding her contributions to music storytelling.
News of Hackett’s passing brought tributes from members of the country music journalism community, including MusicRow magazine, which described her as a “true titan” of the country music journalist community and shared condolences with her family.
Funeral and memorial service details have not yet been announced. As colleagues, readers, and individuals of the music community proceed to remember her work and influence, Vernell Hackett’s legacy as a journalist and author remains a significant part of country music history.
