For Charley Pride, music and baseball were lifelong companions.
Country music superstar Charley Pride died Saturday from COVID-19 complications. He was 86 years old.
Known for multiple hits, starting with Kiss an Angel Good Mornin, Pride was the first major African American country music star, and he paved the way for other stars, such as Darius Rucker and others. Pride also had a deep affection for the game of baseball.
In 1953, Pride made his debut in the Negro Leagues, pitching for the Memphis Red Sox. During his baseball career, Pride won an All-Army championship and three Negro All-Star titles. In 1958, Pride decided to focus on music.
But his attachment to baseball remained intact. Among many other former Negro League stars, Pride was drafted by the Texas Rangers when MLB teams drafted former Negro League Stars to recognize their achievements.
Charley Pride will always be remembered as a country music star. Let’s add to that kudos to a man who loved America’s game.
RIP Charley Pride.
