To put it plainly, Don Rich was the most important side player in the history of country music, and country music would sound significantly different if it wasn’t for Don. Buck Owens and Don Rich were one of the most important duos in the history of country music. Just like in life, the death of Don Rich would radically change country music as well. This sent the sound of Buck Owens, Don Rich, Bakersfield, and country music international. Don Rich was pronounced dead at the hospital in San Luis Obispo at 10:55 pm, 50 minutes after the accident was reported.