Ray Price

Ray Price was a versatile country singer who navigated between traditional hard country and pop influences throughout his career. His powerful voice and innovative approach to music led to the creation of the iconic "Ray Price beat" that dominated country music in the late '50s. Price's career saw significant success with hits like "Crazy Arms" and "City Lights," but he also faced criticism for his exploration of orchestrated country-pop sounds in the late '60s and early '70s.

Born in Perryville, Texas, Ray Price's musical journey began in Dallas, where he honed his skills as a guitarist and singer. After serving in the Marines during World War II, Price pursued a full-time music career, eventually finding success with Columbia Records in the early '50s. His collaborations with legends like Hank Williams and innovative hits like "Crazy Arms" solidified his place in country music history. Despite shifts in musical styles and label changes over the years, Price's legacy as a pioneering country artist endured until his passing in 2013.