Jimmy Wakely, American country music singer-songwriter and actor (d. 1982)

Jimmy Wakely (February 16, 1914 – September 23, 1982) was a multifaceted American entertainer whose career profoundly impacted country music and Hollywood's B-Western genre. Revered as an accomplished actor, prolific songwriter, and celebrated country music vocalist, Wakely stood out as one of the last authentic "singing cowboys," an iconic figure who blended musical talent with heroic on-screen personas.

His extensive career spanned the dynamic decades of the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s. During this period, Wakely was incredibly prolific, releasing a consistent stream of records that resonated with audiences. Simultaneously, he made numerous appearances in B-Western movies, starring for major studios such as Monogram Pictures and Universal Studios. These films cemented his image as a charismatic hero who often used his smooth baritone voice to serenade his co-stars or sing his way through various predicaments, embodying the quintessential singing cowboy.

Beyond the silver screen, Wakely embraced other emerging media. He was a familiar voice on radio broadcasts and made successful transitions to early television programming, expanding his reach to an even wider audience. Demonstrating his widespread popularity and unique appeal, he even had his own series of comic books, a testament to his celebrity status that transcended traditional entertainment formats.

A pivotal highlight of Wakely's musical journey was his highly successful collaboration with pop vocalist Margaret Whiting. From 1949 to 1951, their duet singles produced a remarkable string of top seven hits on the national charts. The pinnacle of their joint efforts was the immensely popular 1949 release, "Slippin' Around." This track not only soared to the number one position on the U.S. country chart but also achieved the rare feat of topping the pop music chart, showcasing its broad crossover appeal and making it an enduring classic.

In his later years, Wakely exhibited keen business acumen by owning two music publishing companies, notably Red River Songs and Golden West Melodies. These ventures allowed him to continue contributing to the music industry beyond his performing career. Until shortly before his passing, he remained an active and cherished performer at the legendary Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, further solidifying his enduring legacy within the heartland of country music.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jimmy Wakely

What made Jimmy Wakely a "singing cowboy"?
Jimmy Wakely earned the title "singing cowboy" due to his dual career as a country music vocalist and a star in numerous Hollywood B-Western films. He performed his own songs within his movies, a characteristic trait of this iconic Western film genre popularized by figures like Gene Autry and Roy Rogers.
Which major studios did Jimmy Wakely work with during his film career?
During his acting career, Jimmy Wakely worked with prominent studios specializing in Westerns, including Monogram Pictures and Universal Studios, appearing in a multitude of B-Western films throughout the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s.
What was Jimmy Wakely's most famous song?
While Jimmy Wakely had many hits, his most famous song is widely considered to be "Slippin' Around," a duet with Margaret Whiting. Released in 1949, it achieved the number one spot on both the U.S. country and pop music charts, marking a significant crossover success.
Did Jimmy Wakely have other business ventures besides music and acting?
Yes, in his later years, Jimmy Wakely expanded his involvement in the music industry by owning and operating two music publishing companies: Red River Songs and Golden West Melodies. This demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit beyond his performance career.