Radio stations received his first singles, credited to Country Charley Pride, without publicity photos — a cautious move by Atkins. Pride, who grew up in the Mississippi cotton fields and became the first major African American singing star in country music, died Dec. 12 at 86 in Dallas. A generation later, soul stars Ray Charles and Solomon Burke recorded country songs. Pride was voted entertainer of the year by the Country Music Association in 1971. In addition to his wife, survivors include three children, reggae musician Carlton Pride; Dion Pride, a country singer; and Angela Pride; four siblings; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Source: Washington Post December 12, 2020 21:24 UTC