Inductee

Brad Cordle began his musical career singing in church. His earliest musical inspirations were Tennessee Ernie Ford and Nat King Cole, who often could be heard on the home stereo. In high school, Brad was active in choir with his beautiful tenor voice and performed in several high school musicals. He also took private vocal lessons and studied opera at Central Methodist College in Fayette, Missouri, with a full-ride music scholarship.

Brad loved rhythm and blues and quickly built a large following of fans eager to hear him belt out tunes with his powerful voice. He sang with many bands, including Blueberry Buckle, Platte Valley Special, Belly Up, R&B Supply, Cordle Scott Band, The Mighty Jailbreakers, and more recently the Brad Cordle Band, plus others.

Brad sang all over the country but especially enjoyed singing for the crowds in Las Vegas, South Dakota, and hometown of Omaha, Nebraska. After living in Vegas for over 10 years, Brad returned to the Midwest when his health began to fail and reunited with his fellow musicians, family, and friends.

Brad, who also enjoyed songwriting, wrote and recorded many songs in recent years. Most notably is one recorded with The Kris Lager Band entitled, "Aim It At The Milky Way." Brad was an active member of the Omaha Blues Society and was among those who got it formed. He enjoyed mentoring young musicians who participated in Blues Ed, sponsored by the Blues Society. Brad was inducted into the Nebraska Music Hall of Fame in 2016. He has been blessed to have many fellow musicians and friends in South Dakota and around the world.
Brad also enjoyed painting, watching the Chicago Bears, his beloved dog Sasha, debating politics, a good stogie, and spending time with family and friends. He left this world doing what he loved most – singing and entertaining others.

Brad Cordle died in February 2018 at the age of 64. He sang right up until the end, sitting in with a local band the night before his death. Brad always loved South Dakota, and his family honored his request by spreading his ashes in the hills near Spearfish where his career really began. His family is humbled to accept this honor on his behalf.

Awards

2019Spirit of the Music Award