Singer, guitarist, and songwriter. Resided in Vidor, Texas. Began career by singing on a Beaumont radio station. Performed on the Louisiana Hayride show and has been a member of the Grand Ole Opry for many years. Has won "Crown Prince of Country Music." Was voted Male Vocalist of the Year by the Country Music Association in 1980. Has recorded over thirty albums and many singles, including "Why Baby Why" (1955), "White Lightening" (1959), "The Race Is on," and the 1980 Country Single Record of the Year, "He Stopped Loving Her Today." Selected for the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1992. Has had #1 hit in each decade since 1950's.

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