Gene Autry

American performer, Gene Autry, is considered one of the most important artists in the history of country music. He holds the unique distinction of being awarded stars in all five categories on the Hollywood Walk of Fame - for film, television, music, radio, and live performance. Autry gained fame as a singing cowboy through his work on radio, movies, and television starting from the early 1930s.

Autry's contribution to country music is unparalleled. With over 640 recordings to his name, including more than 300 songs written or co-written by himself, he has sold over 100 million copies worldwide. His impressive collection includes a dozen gold and platinum records. Notably, Autry's first record ever certified gold belongs to him.

In addition to his musical achievements, Autry had a successful career in entertainment business ventures. He was the original owner of Challenge Records and owned several radio stations in Southern California. Furthermore, he owned a television station and even held ownership of the Los Angeles Angels Major League Baseball team from 1961 to 1997 (formerly known as the California Angels / Anaheim Angels).