Opry publicist Jessie Schmidt confirmed Newman died in Nashville yesterday after a brief illness. He was 86.
Originally from Louisiana, Newman joined the Opry in 1956 and last performed there on June 6, with his band, Cajun Country.
His hits include country tunes "A Fallen Star" and "Cry, Cry, Darling" as well as the Cajun-infused "Alligator Man" and "Bayou Talk."
Career honors include induction into the Cajun Music Hall of Fame and the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame.
A public service will be held Wednesday at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium.
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