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  • Oral History

Ken Nelson

April 2, 1975 OH134 289 min.
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Biography


Music industry executive. Born January 19, 1911. Died January 6, 2008. Career most active 1950s-1960s. Full name: Kenneth F. Nelson. Country recording chief for Capitol Records, 1951-1969. Artist roster included Jean Shepard, Ferlin Husky, Faron Young, Buck Owens, and Merle Haggard. Principal, Central Songs publishing company. Member, Country Music Hall of Fame®.

Interview Summary

1975 April 2
(2 hours, 49 minutes)
Music industry executive Ken Nelson talks about his long career in the music business, focusing on his years at Capitol Records. Discussion includes his childhood; his introduction to the music business; experiences during his early years in the music business; working with Gene Austin; his move to WJJD and the Suppertime Frolic; joining Capitol; his Capitol artist roster, including Eddie Dean, Faron Young, Sonny James, Merle Haggard, and Buck Owens; his songwriting; and memories from his years at Capitol.