James Clarence Wakely (February 16, 1914 – September 23, 1982)[1] was an American actor, songwriter, country music vocalist, and one of the last singing cowboys.

Wakely owned two music publishing companies in later years, and performed at the Grand Ole Opry until shortly before his death.

[4] The group performed locally, made some recordings, and did frequent radio broadcasts over Oklahoma City's WKY.

[2] Johnny Bond, Dick Reinhart, Scotty Harrell and Jack Cheney were members of the Bell Boys and later groups.

[2] Autry felt the group might be a good addition to his new Melody Ranch radio show, which debuted on CBS in January 1940.

[5] He had a number one country hit with "One Has My Name (The Other Has My Heart)",[2] a song originally released by Western singer Eddie Dean.

[2] He also made several appearances on television variety shows;[3] and in 1961 he was one of five rotating hosts on the NBC-TV program Five Star Jubilee.

[3] Wakely created a records by mail system for the Shasta label, becoming extremely successful despite lack of radio play.

[3] After contracting emphysema, Wakely died of heart failure at Mission Hills, California on September 23, 1982.

[7] He and his wife, who died in 1997, are interred next to each other in the Court of Remembrance at Forest Lawn Memorial Park (Hollywood Hills), Los Angeles, California.