Biography

Country & western performer. Born June 1, 1915. Died June 12, 1978. Real name: Cyrus Whitfield Bond. Successful songwriter, radio and television performer, and recording artist. Career most active 1940s and 1950s. Wrote “Cimarron” in 1938. Popular cast member of Gene Autry’s Melody Ranch show and the Town Hall Party show. Member, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Member, Country Music Hall of Fame®.

Interview Summary

1968 July 15
(1 hour, 4 minutes)
Western musician and songwriter Johnny Bond reviews his successful career. Discussion includes a brief review of his early childhood development of his musical interests; his start in the music business; experiences working on Gene Autry’s Melody Ranch shows; the move to western movies; writing the hit “Cimarron”; meeting Tex Ritter; working on the Town Hall Party television show; and his advice for aspiring musicians and songwriters.