Sunday Morning Country Classic Spotlight to Feature Sonny James

On Sunday, January 24th at 11 am, join me for the Sunday Morning Country Classic Spotlight featuring the music of Sonny James, one of the most successful country artists during the 1950's, 60's and 70's.  We get started at 9 am with the 98 Country Classic Radio Show.  You can find us at 98.1 FM Minnesota's New Country, online and on your mobile device. 

James Loden was born on May 1, 1929 into a family of professional entertainers.  He used the stage name Sonny James and signed his first record contract in 1952.  His breakthrough song was Young Love written by Ric Cartey and Carole Joyner.   It became one of the top songs of 1957, reaching number one on both the country and the pop singles chart.

Sonny became known as the 'Southern Gentleman' and had his greatest success singing romantic ballads all about the joys and trials of love and relationships.  From 1953 to 1983 Sonny James, the 'Southern Gentleman', has had a total of 72 chart hits.

Television played a key role in James recording career.  He was a cast member with The Ozark Jubilee on ABC Television and made frequent appearances on the Ed Sullivan Show on CBS.

In 1961 he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and he also hosted the first CMA Award Show.

In July of 1957 Sonny married Doris Shrode in Dallas, Texas.  In 1984 Sonny and Doris retired to their home in Nashville, Tennessee.

Remember we always take your requests at 320-252-9897 or by email dick@minnesotasnewcountry.com.