Famous for his 1960, internationally popular single "Running Bear," this American pop vocalist also released such chart-ranked 1960s songs as "Leave My Kitten Alone," "Cradle of Love," and "Feel So Fine." During his high school years, he founded a rock group called The Shades. While performing with the band at a Texas music venue, he was discovered by J.P. Richardson ("The Big Bopper") and was invited to record "Running Bear."