Spade Cooley was an American musician and actor, born on December 17, 1910, in Grand, Oklahoma. He became known as the "King of Western Swing," a genre that blends country music with jazz influences. Cooley gained fame in the 1940s and 1950s, performing with his band on radio and television, and he was a prominent figure in the Hollywood music scene. In addition to his music career, Cooley appeared in several films and television shows, showcasing his talents beyond the stage. However, his life was marred by personal troubles, including a conviction for the murder of his wife, Ella Mae Cooley, in 1961. He passed away on April 23, 1969.