Bob Ferguson
Robert Bruce Ferguson, known as Bob Ferguson, was born on December 30, 1927, in Willow Springs, Missouri, and passed away on July 22, 2001, in Jackson, Mississippi. He was a prominent figure in the country music industry, celebrated for his work as a songwriter and record producer. Ferguson was instrumental in establishing Nashville, Tennessee, as a hub for country music, contributing significantly to the development of the Nashville Sound.
Ferguson is best known for writing the hit songs "On the Wings of a Dove," which became a major success for Ferlin Husky, and "The Carroll County Accident," recorded by Porter Wagoner and awarded the Country Music Association Song of the Year in 1969. His song "Wings of a Dove" was featured in the 1983 film "Tender Mercies" and received the "million air" plays award from Broadcast Music Incorporated (BMI) in 1987.
In addition to his songwriting, Ferguson worked as a producer for RCA Records, collaborating with notable artists such as Dolly Parton, Chet Atkins, and Connie Smith. He played a crucial role in producing Connie Smith's breakthrough hit "Once A Day." Ferguson's contributions to country music earned him numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career.
Beyond music, Ferguson was a historian and audio-visual producer for the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, helping to develop the Museum of the Southern Indian. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War and was involved in various professions, including working for the Tennessee Game and Fish Commission. Ferguson's legacy is marked by his profound impact on country music and his dedication to preserving Choctaw Indian history.