Marion County native Sonny James was a country music singer widely known by his nickname, the “Southern Gentleman.” During a 30-year career beginning in 1953, he recorded numerous chart-topping country hits and enjoyed great crossover popularity on the pop charts. He was the first country music star to be recognized on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a regular performer on the Grand Ole Opry. James is a member of the Alabama Country Music Hall of Fame.
Photos courtesy of: Alamy, Archive.org