Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular Music
WARD, Jacky
(
b 18 November 1942, Groveton TX) Country singer, guitarist, impressionist and dj. Grew up in musical family, singing professionally from age 8. Following Army service worked as salesman by day, dj on local radio in the evening and performing at local clubs at weekends. Recorded self-financed debut record 'Big Blue Diamond' '72; became regional hit in Houston and was picked up by Target and made country top 40. Signed to larger Mega Records and then Mercury making breakthrough to country top 10 with 'Fools Fall In Love' '77 and 'A Lover's Question' '78 (also crossed over to pop Hot 100). Recorded duets with newcomer Reba McEntire 'Three Sheets In the Wind' and 'That Makes Two Of Us' '78-9; continued with solo hits 'Rhythm Of The Rain', 'Wisdom Of A Fool', 'That's The Way A Cowboy Rocks And Rolls' '78-81. Very popular stage performer with sell-out shows at Las Vegas casinos; toured with famous circus act the Flying Wallendas '79; hosted Dancing USA on TNN '84-5. Continued recording for Asylum, Warner Brothers, Electric throughout the '80s. Albums included
The Best of Jacky Ward...Up 'Til Now '79,
More Jacky Ward '80 on Mercury;
Big Blue Diamond '80 on Sunbird;
Night After Night '82 on Asylum.