Gene Autry's Melody Ranch

Gene Autry's Melody Ranch is a Western variety radio show in the United States. A 15-minute pilot show aired on December 31, 1939. The program ran from January 7, 1940 to August 1, 1943, and from September 23, 1945 to May 16, 1956. The show's entire run was broadcast over the CBS radio network, sponsored by Doublemint gum. The approximately two-year interruption resulted from Autry's enlistment in the United States Army to serve in World War II. Initially titled Doublemint's Melody Ranch, the show's name was changed to Gene Autry's Melody Ranch in early 1941. Episodes were 30 minutes long except for a 15-minute version that ran from September 23, 1945 to June 16, 1946. The theme song was "Back in the Saddle Again".

Gene Autry's Melody Ranch
Gene Autry publicity photo
Other namesDoublemint's Melody Ranch
GenreCountry music
Running time30 minutes
Country of originUnited States
Language(s)English
Home stationCBS KNX Playhouse, Hollywood, CA
StarringGene Autry
Announcer
  • Wendell Niles
  • Tom Hanlon
  • Lou Crosby
  • Charles Lyon
Original releaseJanuary 7, 1940 (1940-01-07) 
May 16, 1956 (1956-05-16)
Audio formatMono
Opening theme"Back in the Saddle Again"
Sponsored byDoublemint

In its early years the show was broadcast live before a studio audience from the CBS Columbia Square KNX Playhouse at Sunset and Gower in Hollywood and preserved on acetate disc. Later on it was taped prior to airtime, usually at KNX. When on tour, the show would originate through the facilities of local CBS affiliate stations. Sometimes it took place at a special event. In 1951 the program had an 8:00 p.m., Saturday night, 30 minute time slot. The show for August 11, 1951 originated from the Illinois State Fairgrounds at Springfield, Illinois. The guests were Governor of Illinois Adlai E. Stevenson II and 12-year-old 4-H Club member Shelby Jean Thomas of Kilbourne, Illinois.

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