Mickey Gilley was a renowned American country music singer and pianist whose career spanned several decades, beginning in the early 1970s. Born on March 9, 1936, in Natchez, Mississippi, and raised in Ferriday, Louisiana, Gilley was a cousin of rock 'n' roll pioneers Jerry Lee Lewis and Jimmy Swaggart, which placed him in a unique position within a family of prominent musical talents. Gilley's name became synonymous with the urban cowboy movement, thanks to his famed honky-tonk nightclub, Gilley's Club, in Pasadena, Texas, which he opened in the early 1970s and was once known as the "world's largest honky-tonk."

His music career truly took off with the chart-topping success of his cover of "Room Full of Roses" in 1974, which paved the way for a string of hits that blended country with smooth, pop-sensible melodies. His signature song "Stand by Me" propelled him to greater heights after being featured in the 1980 film "Urban Cowboy," which helped popularize country music across the United States. Over the years, Gilley scored more than 15 number one hits and was awarded numerous accolades, including ACM and ACM Awards. Albums like "Voices of Americana (The Crazy Cajun Recordings)" and live performances, such as "Live in Branson," capture the essence of his enduring appeal. Mickey Gilley's influence on the genre and his connection to the transformation of country music during the latter part of the 20th century ensure his legacy in the realm of American music.

Genres

Classic Country Pop

Country

Country Rock

Nashville Sound

Related Artists

Willie Nelson

Merle Haggard

George Jones

Conway Twitty

Johnny Cash

George Strait

Charlie Rich

Kenny Rogers

Johnny Lee

Alabama

Jerry Lee Lewis

Ronnie Milsap

Latest Release

Voices of Americana (The Crazy Cajun Recordings)

Mickey Gilley

Album - 15 Tracks - Released December 1, 2023