Ouray, Colorado’s charm can be attributed to a number of reasons, but one of those reasons is definitely its unbelievably rich history. We’re once again shedding some light on Ouray’s past by telling you a little more about the singer and political figure William Dale Fries, Jr., better known by his stage name of C. W. McCall.
C. W. McCall rose to popularity in 1976 after achieving a number one hit with “Convoy”, a song from his second album Black Bear Road. The song was a novelty country song he wrote as a tribute and celebration of CB radio, which was still a new technology during that time. The song became incredibly successfully, selling millions of copies. Even though it was and remains a novelty tune, C. W. McCall managed to make the list of Rolling Stone magazine’s 100 Greatest Country Songs of All Time, coming in at 98th place. Just two years later, “Convoy” spawned a movie of the same name.
McCall would go on to release six more albums, the most recent being the Manheim Steamroller collaboration American Spirit in 2003. Despite this, McCall has yet to repeat the success of Black Bear Road which went gold on the strength of “Convoy”.
So how does William Dale Fries, Jr. relate to Ouray? When he wasn’t busy with his singing career, he launched a six-year stint as the mayor of Ouray in 1986!
This update is provided by The River’s Edge Motel Lodge & Resort. You’ll find five unique types of Ouray Colorado hotels at our location on the banks of the Uncompahgre River, and every single room has a view of the mountains. For more information on Ouray Colorado hotel specials, amenities, questions about hosting your special event such as weddings in Ouray Colorado, or hotel specials, please call 888-547-5962. You can also visit us at 110 7th Avenue.