News

Charley Pride, country’s first Black superstar, dies at 86

NEW YORK (AP) Charley Pride, the son of sharecroppers in Mississippi who became one of country music's biggest stars and the first Black member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, has died. He was 86. Photo: Associated Press


NEW YORK (AP) Charley Pride, the son of sharecroppers in Mississippi who became one of country music’s biggest stars and the first Black member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, has died. He was 86.

Pride died Saturday in Dallas of complications from COVID-19, according to Jeremy Westby of the public relations firm 2911 Media.

Pride, blessed with a rich baritone, released some 60 albums and sold more than 25 million records during a career that began in the mid-1960s.

His hits included “Kiss an Angel Good Morning,” “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone,” “Burgers and Fries,” “Mountain of Love,” “You’re So Good When You’re Bad,” “Why Baby Why” and “Someone Loves You Honey.”

Pride had three Grammy Awards, dozens of No. 1 hits and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2000. The Smithsonian in Washington acquired memorabilia from Pride, including a pair of boots and one of his guitars, for the the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Latest Headlines

1 hour ago in Local

No Injuries in Chaotic Multi-Vehicle Crash, Fire on I-295

Fresh

Troopers say a vehicle crashed into the center median at about 7 am.

15 hours ago in Local

3 People Arrested in Penobscot County Drug Raid

Deputies say the investigation remains active and additional charges may be forthcoming.

16 hours ago in Local

Tito’s Vodka Ordered to Pay $750,000 in Taxes and Penalties in Maine

The court determined the manufacturer did not file tax returns for an audit period.

18 hours ago in Local

Maine supplemental budget clears committee, heads to full legislature

Maine’s supplemental budget is advancing, and it includes a tax increase on millionaires and $300 relief payments to more than half a million lower income Mainers.

21 hours ago in Local

Missing South Portland man found safe

Police say Kulinski has been found safe.