Charley Pride

Charley Pride

March 18, 1934 – December 12, 2020

First African-American to be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame

Charley Frank Pride A Trailblazing Legacy

Synopsis:

Charley Frank Pride, an American icon known for his exceptional talents in singing, guitar playing, and baseball, left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Born on March 18, 1934, and passing away on December 12, 2020, his remarkable journey encompassed multiple careers and a legacy that continues to shine.

Inductions:

  1. Grand Ole Opry: Charley Pride held a significant place in the Grand Ole Opry, becoming one of only three African-American members, alongside DeFord Bailey and Darius Rucker. His presence in this iconic institution highlighted his groundbreaking role in expanding the diversity of country music.

Chronological List of Awards and Honors for Charley Pride

1970s:

Country Music Association Awards:

  1. 1971 Entertainer of the Year: Charley Pride’s remarkable contributions to country music earned him the prestigious title of Entertainer of the Year at the 1971 Country Music Association Awards.

American Music Awards:

  1. 1973 Favorite Country Album: In 1973, Charley Pride’s outstanding work in the country genre earned him the title of having the “Favorite Country Album” at the American Music Awards.
  2. 1973 Favorite Country Male Artist: Charley Pride’s talent and popularity led him to win the American Music Award for “Favorite Country Male Artist” in 1973.

1970s-1980s:

Grammy Awards:

  1. 1971 Best Sacred Performance (Musical) – “Did You Think to Pray”: In 1971, Charley Pride received a Grammy Award for “Best Sacred Performance (Musical)” for his exceptional rendition of “Did You Think to Pray.”

1980s:

National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum:

  1. Inducted in 2006: Charley Pride’s contributions to the cultural landscape were recognized when he was inducted into the National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum in 2006.

1990s:

Scandinavian-American Hall of Fame:

  1. 1996 Merit of Distinction Award in the Performing Arts: In 1996, Charley Pride was honored with the “Merit of Distinction Award in the Performing Arts” by the Scandinavian-American Hall of Fame, acknowledging his significant impact on the world of entertainment.

1990s-2000s:

Academy of Country Music Awards:

  1. 1994 Pioneer Award: Charley Pride’s pioneering role in country music was celebrated when he received the Academy of Country Music’s Pioneer Award in 1994.

2000s:

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum:

  1. Inducted in 2000: Charley Pride’s enduring legacy was cemented when he was inducted into the prestigious Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in 2000.

2010s-2020s:

Country Music Association:

  1. 2020 Lifetime Achievement Award: Charley Pride’s remarkable career and lasting influence were acknowledged with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Country Music Association in 2020.

2010s-2020s:

Grammy Awards:

  1. 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award: In 2017, Charley Pride received the coveted Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to his enduring impact on the world of music.

2010s-2020s:

Ameripolitan Music Awards:

  1. 2016 Master Award: Charley Pride’s masterful contributions to music earned him the Ameripolitan Music Award’s Master Award in 2016.

Posthumous Recognition:

Texas Rangers Field:

  1. Charley Pride Field: On March 14, 2021, the Texas Rangers baseball team paid tribute to Charley Pride by renaming their spring training field in Surprise, Arizona, as “Charley Pride Field.” This posthumous honor reflects the lasting impact of his career on the world of sports and entertainment.

Education and Schools:

Charley Pride’s life and career were shaped by his experiences and talents, with his early years spent in Sledge, Mississippi. Although he did not attend a specific music school, his passion for music was evident from a young age when he received his first guitar at 14. His innate musical abilities and dedication led him on a path to success in the music industry.

Monuments and Memorials:

  1. Charley Pride Highway: In recognition of his contributions, a 33-mile stretch of Mississippi Highway 3, spanning from Sledge to Tutwiler, was named the “Charley Pride Highway.” This enduring monument pays tribute to his Mississippi roots and the journey that took him to international stardom.

Death and Memorial:

Charley Pride passed away on December 12, 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic in Texas. His death marked the end of an era in country music. His memory lives on through his timeless music and the impact he had on the genre.

Legacy:

Charley Pride’s legacy in the world of entertainment is immeasurable. He achieved unparalleled success in country music during the 1960s and 1970s, becoming RCA Records’ best-selling performer, second only to Elvis Presley. With an impressive 52 top-10 hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, including 30 that reached the coveted number one spot, Pride’s influence on the genre is undeniable.

As one of the rare African-American members of the Grand Ole Opry, Charley Pride shattered racial barriers in country music, opening doors for future generations of diverse artists. His warm and distinctive baritone voice, coupled with his remarkable stage presence, endeared him to fans worldwide.

Charley Pride’s enduring impact on the country music industry, coupled with his numerous accolades and honors, cements his place as a true trailblazer. His music continues to resonate with audiences, ensuring that his legacy will live on for generations to come.