The country music world was shocked to learn of the death of songwriter Andrew Dorff on Dec. 19, just days after his 40th birthday. It has been announced that BMI and Universal Publishing Group are hosting a celebration of life event in memory of him on Wednesday (Jan. 11) at City Winery in Nashville.

Dorff was known for writing several country hits, including Blake Shelton’s “Neon Light” and “My Eyes,” Hunter Hayes' “Somebody’s Heartbreak,” Kenny Chesney’s “Save It for a Rainy Day,” and William Michael Morgan’s current single, “Missing.” His father, Steve Dorff, is also a country songwriter and wrote hits for George Strait.

The Country Music Community Mourns Andrew Dorff

“It is with immeasurable grief that we learn of the passing of our friend Andrew Dorff,” Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) President Lee Thomas Miller wrote in remembrance. “Our songwriting community is small and close and this loss will hurt us all deeply. Andrew was a good man and a good friend. He was an elite songwriter at the peak of his life and career. Our sincerest prayers go out to his family. May we all hug each other a little tighter this week and remember that life is fragile. Rest in peace Andrew.”

No cause of death has been released for Andrew Dorff.

Dorff's brother, actor Stephen Dorff, plays a country singer in the new film Wheeler, which also features songwriters  Kris Kristofferson (who co-starred with Stephen in the film Blade), Bobby Tomberlin and Audrey Spillman. The Dorff brothers co-wrote a song for the film titled "Pour Me Out of This Town."

The celebration of life service will take place at 4PM CT on Wednesday at City Winery, and attendees are encouraged to use a ride-sharing service, as parking will be limited.

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