40 Facts About Ray Stevens

Early Life and Beginnings

Ray Stevens, a name synonymous with comedy and music, has a fascinating life story. Let's dive into some lesser-known facts about his early years and how he got started.

1. Born Harold Ray Ragsdale: Ray Stevens was born on January 24, 1939, in Clarkdale, Georgia. His birth name is Harold Ray Ragsdale.

2. Musical Prodigy: By age six, Stevens was already playing piano and singing in his local church choir.

3. First Band: At 15, he formed his first band, The Barons, which played local gigs and school dances.

4. College Days: Stevens attended Georgia State University, where he studied music and theater arts.

5. First Record Deal: At 18, he signed his first recording contract with Capitol Records, marking the beginning of his professional career.

Rise to Fame

Stevens' journey to stardom wasn't overnight. It took years of hard work and some quirky songs to make him a household name.

6. "Ahab the Arab": Released in 1962, this song became his first major hit, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100.

7. Grammy Awards: Stevens has won two Grammy Awards, one for "Everything Is Beautiful" and another for "Misty."

8. TV Appearances: He frequently appeared on popular TV shows like "The Andy Williams Show" and "The Tonight Show."

9. Comedy Albums: Known for his comedic songs, Stevens released numerous comedy albums, including "Gitarzan" and "The Streak."

10. Billboard Success: Over his career, Stevens has had more than 40 singles chart on the Billboard Hot 100.

Notable Songs and Albums

Ray Stevens has a rich discography that spans multiple genres. Here are some of his most notable works.

11. "The Streak": This 1974 novelty song about streaking became a massive hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

12. "Everything Is Beautiful": Released in 1970, this song won a Grammy and became an anthem for peace and love.

13. "Misty": Stevens' rendition of this classic jazz standard earned him another Grammy Award.

14. "Gitarzan": A humorous take on Tarzan, this song became a hit in 1969 and remains a fan favorite.

15. "Santa Claus Is Watching You": This Christmas novelty song has become a holiday staple.

Ventures Beyond Music

Stevens isn't just a musician; he's also dabbled in other fields, showcasing his versatility.

16. Television Show: He hosted his own TV show, "The Ray Stevens Show," in the early 1970s.

17. Branson, Missouri: Stevens opened his own theater in Branson, where he performed regularly for several years.

18. Author: He wrote an autobiography titled "Ray Stevens' Nashville," offering insights into his life and career.

19. Music Videos: Stevens was a pioneer in creating music videos for his songs, long before MTV became popular.

20. Business Ventures: He owns a successful music publishing company, Ray Stevens Music.

Awards and Honors

Stevens' contributions to music and comedy have earned him numerous accolades over the years.

21. Country Music Hall of Fame: In 2019, Stevens was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

22. Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame: He was inducted in 1980, recognizing his songwriting talents.

23. Comedy Music Hall of Fame: Stevens is also a member of the Comedy Music Hall of Fame.

24. Gold and Platinum Records: He has multiple gold and platinum records, signifying millions of albums sold.

25. BMI Awards: Stevens has received several BMI awards for his songwriting achievements.

Personal Life

Behind the scenes, Stevens leads a life filled with interesting tidbits and personal milestones.

26. Family Man: Stevens has been married to his wife, Penny Jackson Ragsdale, for over 50 years.

27. Philanthropy: He is actively involved in charitable activities, particularly those benefiting children and veterans.

28. Hobbies: Stevens enjoys fishing and is an avid golfer.

29. Residence: He resides in Nashville, Tennessee, where he continues to be active in the music scene.

30. Health: Despite his busy schedule, Stevens maintains a healthy lifestyle, often seen jogging in his neighborhood.

Legacy and Influence

Ray Stevens' impact on music and comedy is undeniable. His legacy continues to inspire new generations.

31. Influence on Artists: Many contemporary artists cite Stevens as an influence, including Brad Paisley and Toby Keith.

32. Parody Pioneer: Stevens is considered one of the pioneers of musical parody, paving the way for artists like "Weird Al" Yankovic.

33. Cultural Impact: His songs often reflect social and cultural issues, making them relevant across different eras.

34. Longevity: Stevens has maintained a career spanning over six decades, a testament to his talent and adaptability.

35. Fan Base: He has a loyal fan base that spans multiple generations, from baby boomers to millennials.

Fun Facts

Let's wrap up with some fun and quirky facts about Ray Stevens that you might not know.

36. Voice Acting: Stevens has lent his voice to various animated characters over the years.

37. Nickname: Friends and family often call him "The Clown Prince of Country Music."

38. First Job: His first job was as a paperboy in his hometown of Clarkdale.

39. Favorite Food: Stevens loves Southern cuisine, particularly fried chicken and collard greens.

40. Collector: He has an extensive collection of vintage cars, which he loves to show off to friends and family.

Ray Stevens: A Legacy of Laughter and Music

Ray Stevens has left an indelible mark on the world of music and comedy. With a career spanning over six decades, his unique blend of humor and musical talent has entertained millions. From his early hits like "Ahab the Arab" to his Grammy-winning "Everything Is Beautiful," Stevens has shown versatility and creativity. His knack for storytelling through song has made him a beloved figure in both country and pop music circles.

Stevens' influence extends beyond his recordings. His television show, "Ray Stevens Nashville," brought his comedic genius to a new audience, while his Branson theater continues to draw fans from all over. Whether he's making us laugh with his novelty songs or touching our hearts with his more serious work, Ray Stevens remains a true icon. His legacy is a testament to the power of laughter and music to bring people together.