Performer Information

The Cass County Boys, originally from Texas, were known to a generation of Americans who listened to them on Gene Autry’s weekly Melody Ranch radio program from the mid-1940s until the show’s final broadcast in 1956, and saw them in at least 11 Gene Autry movies and ten of his TV shows during that period. They also made rodeo appearances with Gene Autry and appeared in feature films with Charles Starrett and Tex Ritter. The trio recorded for Decca, made transcriptions for the World Broadcasting Service and made five telescriptions for the Snader Company. Interestingly, the Boys were one of Bing Crosby’s favorite groups, and Crosby invited them to sing at some of his get-togethers with friends at his home.

The composition of the group, which was formed in the latter part of 1936, remained the same throughout their career: lead singer Fred Martin (accordion), tenor Bert Dodson (bass) and baritone Jerry Scoggins (guitar).  Initially, Martin and Scoggins were singing duets on Dallas radio. They invited Dodson, who was playing bass with the Light Crust Doughboys, to join them.  

Martin was from Cass County, Texas. Scoggins and Dodson were also from Texas, and, early on, a radio announcer dubbed them “The Cass County Kids.” Each was an outstanding performer in his own right. In later years, Scoggins sang the theme for the long-running national tv show, The Beverly Hillbillies, among other things, e.g. they also recorded a series of radio transcriptions with Doye O’Dell. Additional information can be found in the liner notes of the Boys’ CD for the Cattle label (#273), RIDE, RANGER, RIDE, and their CD CASS COUNTY BOYS Vol 2 (#368) on the BACM label.

Upon their induction into the Hall of Fame, Gene Autry called them “The Best." (See letter from Gene Autry below.
O.J. Sikes

Dear Fred and Jerry and Mrs. Mary Jane Dodson,
Jackie and I were thrilled to hear about your induction into the Western Music Association Hall of Fame. You fellows and Bert were the best in the business, and I enjoyed every minute of our long and happy association. No cowboy could ask for better musicians than the Cass County Boys. You’re in a league of your own.
Congratulations on receiving this special honor and thanks for your friendship throughout the years. It has always meant a great deal to me. Mary Jane, I always appreciated Bert’s friendship and support.
With my warmest personal regards always,
Gene Autry