Released in 1935, “Don’t Waste Your Tears on Me” was written and performed by country singer Gene Autry. A very somber song about regret that came out right before a turning point in his career. Which would lead Autry into becoming a multimedia icon.
In September of the same year, Autry would be given his first starring role in the motion picture “Tumbling Tumbleweeds”. His films portraying him as the quintessential cowboy. In 1940, Autry would have his own weekly radio show “Melody Ranch”, where he would perform his cowboy songs live. He would eventually try his luck on the small screen as well. With “The Gene Autry Show” which aired from 1950 to 1955 and would run for 91 episodes
The Singing Cowboy would pass in 1998, leaving behind a legacy that would be hard for any other performer to match. With success in film, tv, and radio, Autry showed just how much can come from one person and their guitar.
Frank Saponare is a student at Rowan University who is majoring in the Writing Arts. He enjoys long walks on the beach, scary movies and dark roast coffee. As of 2021, he is trying his best to survive.