Oklahoma’s “Singing Cowboy” Gene Autry began performing on radio in 1928. After signing with Columbia Records in 1931, Autry became a beloved, warm and folksy fixture in films and later television, in addition to his main medium, radio, known for the honorable “Cowboy Code” followed by young listeners who wanted to emulate their role model. Gene Autry’s signature song, “Back in the Saddle Again”, was written and originally recorded by fellow country singer Ray Whitley. Autry bought the rights to the tune for $200 in the 1930s and adopted it as his radio theme. Even today, it is one of the most recognizable country and western songs, a classic recalling a simpler time in pop culture. Today, Autry is the only star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame to be honored in all five possible categories – radio, film, television, recording and live theatre.

Official Gene Autry Website
Museum of Broadcast Communications Profile of Gene Autry