Biography

Nashville record producer. Born October 21, 1915. Died January 7, 1998. Assistant to Decca producer Paul Cohen, 1947-1958. Head of country recording for Decca Records, 1958-1976. Important force behind the development of the Nashville Sound. With brother, Harold Bradley, co-owned the Bradley Film and Recording Studios. Produced many legendary country artists, including Patsy Cline, Bill Monroe, Brenda Lee, Kitty Wells, and Loretta Lynn. Member, Country Music Hall of Fame®.

Interview Summary

1993
(50 minutes)
Producer Owen Bradley talks about his work in the country music industry during the late 1950s and early 1960s, focusing on his work with Bill Monroe. Discussion includes working for Paul Cohen at Decca; Bill Monroe as artist and individual; comments on what constitutes a good country hit; the philosophy behind his song selection for country albums; working with Ernest Tubb; promotion man Harry Silverstein; and his comments on production costs.