Andy Griffith had strong ties to country music, notably appearing in Brad Paisley 's "Waitin' on a Woman" video in 2008. According to The Tennessean , Griffith also made his Grand Ole Opry debut in 1954 and played there as recently as 2003.  In addition, Grand Ole Opry star Randy Travis guest starred in a few episodes of Griffith's hit show Matlock in the early '90s, and The Andy Griffith Show 's fictional town of Mayberry provided the title of a #1 hit for Rascal Flatts in 2003.

News of Andy Griffith's passing Tuesday morning at age 86 brought reaction from country stars through press statements and Twitter posts:

Lady Antebellum 's Hillary Scott -- "Heaven gained a talented man today. Mr. Andy Griffith, thanks for giving me amazing memories with my family growing up watching your show!"

Scotty McCreery -- "RIP Andy Griffith.. We lost a legend today that provided me and my family some great quality time around the tv filled with some good laughs."

Rodney Atkins -- "Rest In Peace Andy Griffith. Praying for his family, friends and fans.

Wynonna -- “I have seen every single episode of Andy Griffith & I own them all. Years ago, my mom worked with Mr. Andy & she had him call & leave me a voicemail message. I kept it for years. I never knew my biological father, so to me, Andy was the epitome of a loving & caring example to Opie & I looked up to him. There are no more shows like The Andy Griffith Show & there never will be.”

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