James Clarence Wakely was born in Mineola, Arkansas February 16, 1914. Wakely became a professional musician in the 1930s forming the Jimmy Wakely Trio with Johnny Bond and Sonny Harrell in 1937. After performing on station WKY in Oklahoma City, they became regulars on Gene Autry’s Melody Ranch. During the 1940s and 1950s, Wakely was a major country and Western star, recording such hits as “Slippin’ Around,” “I Love You So Much It Hurts,” and “One Has My Name, The Other Has My Heart.” Wakely continued to be an active performer the 1970s and passed away September 23, 1982.

Awards:

• 1991 Hall of Fame Inductees