On Sunday November 1st at 11 am, join me for the Sunday Morning Country Classic Spotlight featuring the music and life of Ronnie McDowell.  We get started at 9 am with Country Classics at 98.1 FM Minnesota’s New Country, online and on your mobile device

Ronnie McDowell was born March 26, 1950 in Fountain Head, Tennessee and grew up in Portland, Tennessee.  Ronnie began singing while in the service.  For a time McDowell worked as a commercial sign painter.

Following the death of Elvis Presley in August of 1977, Ronnie came out of nowhere and he wrote a very heartfelt tribute song called The King is Gone.  The record took off gaining airplay on country and pop stations across the country and around the world.

All of a sudden the man from Portland, Tennessee was a country star and he proved that he wasn’t a one hit wonder.  He charted a string of hit singles and albums from 1979 to 1986.  His singles include I Love You, I Love You, I Love You, Wandering Eyes, Older WomenYou’re Gonna Ruin My Bad Reputation and many more top ten hits.

Ronnie continues to tour and dazzles audiences around the country.  He is also an avid painter and has released several art prints.  McDowell, a Vietnam veteran, lives in Hendersonville, Tennessee and is the father of five children.

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

More From 98.1 Minnesota's New Country