Andrew Dorff, a popular and respected songwriter who specialized in the world of country music, was found dead on Monday night.
He was 39 years old.
The tragic and unexpected passing has been confirmed by the Nashville Songwriters Association International, although no further information is available at this time.
As a writer for Universal Music Publishing Group Nashville, Dorff penned an incredible number of top hits; from “My Eyes” and “Neon Light” by Blake Shelton… to “Save It For a Rainy Day by Kenny Chesney… to “Somebody’s Heartbreak” by Hunter Hayes.
He was also responsible for successful songs by such major artists as Ronnie Dunn, Hunter Hayes, Sara Evans, Martina McBride and William Michael Morgan.
Wrote Nashville Songwriters Association International in a statement that confirmed this sad news:
It is with immeasurable grief that we learn of the passing of our friend Andrew Dorff. 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.
Andrew was the brother of actor Stephen Dorff.
According to the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner Database, the office is unable to release any other further details regarding Dorff’s death because the investigation remains ongoing.
“The BMI family is incredibly shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of songwriter Andrew Dorff,” said Jody Williams, Vice President of Writer Publisher Relations at BMI Nashville.
“The Nashville music business community will miss his kind and generous spirit, his unparalleled talent, and his gift of friendship. BMI was so fortunate to be a part of his career from the very beginning. Whether swinging by our office for a quick meeting or receiving an award at our annual dinner, Andrew’s presence was always a welcome one in the room.
“He will be sorely missed by our entire staff.”
Here is a look at social media reaction from those whose lives were touched by Dorff in Hollywood, Nashville and beyond:
Added Chase Rice:
“No words. Andrew Dorff I don’t even know what to say man. Heart broken. You’ll be missed. A great songwriter taken way too young.”
And Martina McBride:
“So very sad to hear about @endorffin Thanks for caring enough to write with me and for “Ride” #shinewhileyouhavethechancetoshine #sweetsoul.”
Dorff celebrated a birthday on December 16.
He got his start as an artist with 1997’s Hint Of A Mess before transitioning into songwriting.
We send our condolences to the friends, family members and loved ones of Andrew Dorff.