Sunday Morning Country Classic Spotlight to Feature Chris LeDoux

10The Country Classic Show begins at 9 am at 98.1 FM Minnesota’s New Country, online or download our new 98.1 mobile app.

Chris LeDoux was born October 2, 1948 in Biloxi, Mississippi and grew up in Austin, Texas. He gained an interest in music and the rodeo. In 1976, he earned the title of World Champion Bareback Rider from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. Before retiring from competition in 1980, LeDoux won many bareback championships. He then began recording music in the early 1970’s and went on to become a country music star. “Whatcha Gonna Do with a Cowboy,” with backing vocal by Garth Brooks, “Cadillac Ranch” and “This Cowboy’s Hat.”

During LeDoux’s career he recorded 36 albums, he was awarded one gold album certification and was nominated for a Grammy Award. In August 2000, LeDoux was diagnosed with cancer for which he underwent radiation treatment until his death on March 9, 2005 at age 56.

LeDoux is survived by his widow Peggy Rhoads whom he married January 4, 1972. They had five children.