Charley Pride

Charley Frank Pride was born on March 18, 1934, and was best known as an American singer. But aside from his musical career, he was also a professional baseball player. Although he loved music since he was a kid, one of his dreams was to become a professional baseball player — something that he was able to fulfill. In 1952, he was able to play for the Memphis Red Sox of the Negro American League. While he was fulfilling his dreams in baseball, his talent in music got discovered.

Country stars encouraged him to join the music business. In 1966, his first RCA Victor single was released. With credit to his amazing talent, he became the best-selling performer for RCA Records since the legendary Elvis Presley. In his career, he had 30 number one hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Truly, the music industry is saddened by his departure, but it will continue to treasure his name and his contributions.