Life After Baseball
In 1862, Pride was discovered by Red Sovine and Red Foley, both were country stars, in Helena and eventually helped him come to Nashville.
Producer Jack Clement, who has worked with several country music legends including Johnny Cash and rockabilly musician Jerry Lee Lewis, was hooked up with Pride. Their initial demos at the RCA Records caught Chet Atkins’ ear. Without hesitation, Atkins flew to Los Angeles to play the side to top label executives. They agreed to enlist Pride for his remarkable voice.
Charley Pride’s first recording with RCA happened in August 1965. In January 1966, “Snakes Crawl at Night” exhibiting Pride’s baritone voice was first heard. It drew instant attention and spiked the listenership for Country songs.