Mickey Gilley

Biography

Mickey Gilley, a country western star born in Natchez, Mississippi, on March 9, 1936, had music in his blood from a young age. Growing up alongside his cousins, rockabilly legend Jerry Lee Lewis and televangelist Jimmy Swaggart, Gilley was immersed in a world of gospel and boogie-woogie music. Despite initially living in Lewis's shadow, Gilley carved out his own path in the music industry, showcasing his talent as a pianist and vocalist.

At the age of 17, Gilley had his first taste of success with the minor hit "Call Me Shorty" in 1958. However, it wasn't until 1967 that he released his debut album, "Down the Line", which included the track "Now I Can Live Again". His career took a significant turn in 1971 when he ventured into the realm of nightclub ownership by establishing Gilley's Club in Pasadena, Texas. This iconic venue, known as the "world's biggest honky tonk", would later play a pivotal role in his rise to national prominence.

Gilley's Club gained widespread recognition as the setting for the film "Urban Cowboy" in 1980, propelling Gilley into the spotlight and expanding his fan base beyond the realm of country music. Throughout the 1980s, Gilley achieved crossover success by infusing his country-western sound with a pop sensibility, resulting in a string of chart-topping hits and a loyal following of fans. His ability to evolve with the changing musical landscape solidified his status as a versatile and enduring artist.

Despite his professional success, Gilley faced challenges in his personal life, particularly in his partnership with Sherwood Cryer, his business associate at Gilley's Club. A dispute over their business arrangement led to a legal battle, with Gilley ultimately prevailing and receiving a substantial settlement. The fallout from this conflict led to the closure of the original Gilley's Club in 1989, marking the end of an era but not the end of Gilley's entrepreneurial spirit.

In 2006, Gilley embarked on a new chapter by opening another Gilley's Club in Dallas, Texas, carrying on his legacy in the world of entertainment and hospitality. His influence extended beyond Texas, with a Gilley's establishment in Las Vegas and plans for a new venue in LaPorte, Texas. Despite the challenges he faced along the way, Mickey Gilley's enduring passion for music and entrepreneurship cemented his status as a beloved figure in the country-western music scene.