Spade Cooley, born Donnell Clyde Cooley in 1910 and hailing from Oklahoma, was a prominent figure in the realm of western swing music.
Raised in a family of Cherokee descent who worked as sharecroppers, Cooley’s musical journey began under the tutelage of his father before he honed his skills with formal training.
In the 1930s, amidst the challenges of the Dust Bowl era, Cooley’s family made the pivotal decision to migrate to Southern California, a move that set the stage for his future success.
Acquiring the moniker “Spade” from a victorious poker hand, he ventured into the music scene by performing with renowned dance bands at the Venice Pier Ballroom, eventually establishing his own ensemble, the Spade Cooley Orchestra.
Drawing inspiration from the likes of Bob Wills, Cooley pioneered a distinctive sound fusing elements of country music and big band, captivating audiences in dance halls, on airwaves, and even on screen.
Leading his band, he collaborated with notable vocalists such as Carolina Cotton and Tex Williams, solidifying his influence in the world of western swing.
Transitioning into acting, Cooley embarked on a career in Republic westerns in the late 1930s, showcasing his musical talents alongside appearances with stars like Roy Rogers, Jimmy Stewart, and Gene Autry.
His band achieved commercial success with hits like “Shame, Shame on You,” while Cooley himself starred in musical film shorts and later ventured into hosting his own television variety show featuring esteemed guests like Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope.
As the 1950s unfolded, Cooley’s prominence soared, with his image becoming synonymous with show business success.
However, the emergence of rock and roll heralded a shift in entertainment trends, casting a shadow over the genre of western swing.
By 1959, despite his earlier triumphs, Cooley’s personal struggles began to surface as he battled alcoholism and health issues.
The dissolution of his marriage to Ella Mae Evans compounded his woes, leading to a downward spiral marked by accusations of infidelity and emotional turmoil.
Tragedy struck in April 1961 when Cooley descended into a fit of rage, resulting in the brutal murder of Ella Mae in front of their daughter.
The shocking incident sent ripples through the public consciousness, drawing comparisons to modern-day scandals like that of O.J.
Simpson.
Following a high-profile trial, Cooley was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment.
Despite a slated parole in 1970, fate intervened as he suffered a fatal heart attack during a concert performance, effectively marking the grim conclusion to his tumultuous life.
The enigmatic legacy of Spade Cooley endures as a cautionary tale, a poignant reminder of the fragility of fame and the perils of unchecked demons.
For a deeper dive into the historical tapestry of variety entertainment, encompassing the evolution of TV variety and beyond, delve into the rich narrative of “No Applause, Just Throw Money: The Book That Made Vaudeville Famous.”
