Charley Pride at the Opry

While he wasn't the first brother to pursue a career in country music—although he was one of the first to actually attain one—Charley Pride made his race a non-issue with a string of countrypolitan classics in the 1970s that included such hits as "Kiss an Angel Good Morning" and "Is Anybody Goin' to San Antone." While rumor has it that Pride—a former Negro Leagues baseball player—was "hidden" from public consumption for a few years until America fell in love with his voice (Barry White reportedly received the same treatment, thanks to his obesity), the singer soon thrived, becoming one of the biggest, most bankable stars in country, and garnering a Grand Ole Opry membership for his troubles. (Unfortunately, he's still the only African American so honored). What's more—unlike, say, Darius Rucker—he also brought black folks back to the music they helped start in the first place. Whatevs. He's still as smooth as song requires, and too cool by half. (Who else do you know besides DJ Quik that still rocks a half-Natural and a gold-record medallion?)
Sat., June 13, 7 & 9:30 p.m., 2009