George Jones

Editor's note: The following is an open letter from Naomi Judd.

George Jones is to country music what The Beatles are to pop, the Rolling Stones to rock, Elvis to rockabilly, Mozart to classical and Aretha to soul.

Yet, the "Country" Music Television awards show allowed only a "by the way" mention of Jones' death and legacy. Incongruously, they chose alternative music group the Mavericks to perform their short version of George's "The Race Is On."

True country music fans are a loyal bunch and are passionate about our roots and heritage.

Read more at The Tennessean.