Country singer, songwriter and pianist, who frequently combined elements of rock, rockabilly and pop into his music.

Had back-to-back million-selling singles in 1973, "Behind Closed Doors" and "The Most Beautiful Girl"; both were multi-week No. 1 hits on Billboard magazine's country singles chart (the latter also a multi-week No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hit).

Other major hits included "There Won't Be Anymore," "I Don't See Me in Your Eyes Anymore," "I Love My Friend" and "She Called Me Baby" (all 1974 and all No. 1 country hits); "My Elusive Dreams" and "Every Time You Touch Me I Get High" (1975); "Rollin' With the Flow" (1977); and "On My Knees" (1978, a No. 1 duet with Janie Fricke).

A number of his 1974-1975 hits, including several mentioned above, were re-releases of Rich's mid-1960s recordings at RCA and Mercury records.

Named the Country Music Association's Entertainer of the Year in 1974.

Announced the 1975 CMA Entertainer of the Year winner, who ended up being John Denver; in protest, Rich burned the envelope. The incident was broadcast live before a national audience.

Recorded with legendary Nashville guitarist Hank Garland.