Being an icon is not solely based on talent. The other achievments that I and others have mentioned are part of the reason why he is considered an icon.

Concerning the talent, I have to disagree with you Danks. If you ever had the opportunity to see him live in concert or if you were able to see the impact he had on country music during his life, you might have another opinion.   Again, you are certainly entitled to your opinion and I respect that.   There are many iconic figures on the music scene that just do not speak to my tastes.