Ray Price
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Full Name and Common Aliases

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William Ray Price Jr., commonly known as Ray Price, was an American country music singer, songwriter, musician, and bandleader.

Birth and Death Dates

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Born on August 12, 1926, in Perryville, Texas, USA. Passed away on December 16, 2013, at the age of 87.

Nationality and Profession(s)

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American, Singer-Songwriter, Musician, Bandleader

Early Life and Background

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Growing up in a musical family, Ray Price was exposed to country music from an early age. His father, William Ray Price Sr., was a Baptist minister who also played the guitar and sang. The young Price began performing on local radio stations while still in his teens, singing both country and gospel music.

Price moved to Dallas in 1945, where he worked as a disc jockey for a local station and formed his own band, Ray Price and His Cherokee Cowboys. This group would go on to become one of the most influential country bands of all time, known for their unique blend of traditional country and Western swing styles.

Major Accomplishments

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Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1996, recognizing his significant contributions to country music.
Grammy Award winner, taking home the award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance for "For the Good Times" in 1971.
Over 100 charting singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, including hits like "City Lights," "Crazy Arms," and "For the Good Times."

Notable Works or Actions

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As a singer-songwriter, Price was known for his distinctive baritone voice and emotive delivery. His songs often dealt with themes of love, heartache, and everyday life, resonating deeply with listeners.

Some of his most notable works include:

"For the Good Times," which has been covered by numerous artists, including Elvis Presley.
"Crazy Arms," a song that spent 20 weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in 1956.
"Heartaches & Tears," an album released in 1971 that featured the Grammy-winning single "For the Good Times."

Impact and Legacy

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Ray Price's impact on country music cannot be overstated. He was a pioneer of the traditional country sound, blending elements of Western swing, honky-tonk, and bluegrass to create a unique style.

Price's influence can be seen in many subsequent country artists, including Willie Nelson, George Jones, and Johnny Cash. His commitment to preserving traditional country music has left a lasting legacy, inspiring new generations of musicians and fans alike.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

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Ray Price is widely quoted or remembered for his poignant lyrics, distinctive voice, and dedication to traditional country music. His contributions to the genre have had a lasting impact on the industry, earning him recognition as one of the greatest country singers of all time.