Asteroid Whitley

(4779) Whitley = 1978 XQ

Discovered 1978 Dec. 3 by E. Bowell and A. Warnock from plates taken by P. Usher at Palomar Observatory.

Named in honor of Keith Whitley (1954-1989), American country music singer who died tragically at the zenith of his profession. A powerful and emotional performer, Whitley began his professional career as a teenager, playing bluegrass music with Ralph Stanley and the Clinch Mountain Boys. His later success as a solo artist was a source of joy and inspiration for the many fans and friends he made over the years. He helped rekindle an interest in traditional country music, reviving an entire industry.