The Afternoon Mike Soileau Spent With Charley Pride
We got some sad news over the weekend, as we learned country music legend, Charley Pride, had died at the age of 86.
Charley is a member of the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. He was the first black country music star of his time and paved the way for many artists, like Darius Rucker and Jimmie Allan, to break into country music.
After hearing the news, I started thinking about the afternoon I was fortunate enough to spend with the country legend.
About 10 years ago in 2010, Charley Pride was set to perform at L'Auberge. He asked the casino to bring him to our radio station so he could talk with Gator about his new album.
I was just sitting here when someone came to me and said Charley Pride is coming to the studio. I was like the Charley Pride? I was so pumped just to meet him because I am a huge fan of classic country.
A few minutes later, in walked Charley Pride. He walked into the studio and sat down and just started talking with us like we had been friends for years. He started talking about his new album he'd just released and gave us a copy. He told us to pop it in and he would tell us about the songs.
So that is what I did. However, to my surprise, Charley started singing along with the CD and we got an impromptu to concert right here in the studio. I was in awe of him, and he was a super nice guy.
We went through every track on the record and then he took time to take pictures with all of us.
We lost a true legend over the weekend, and it was reported he passed away due to COVID-19 complications. I will always cherish the afternoon I got to spend with Charley Pride You will be missed sir and make sure to Kiss An Angel Good Morning for us in heaven.