Cecil Scaife

Cecil Scaife was a multifaceted American actor and record executive whose career spanned several decades in the music industry. He began his academic journey at the University of Arkansas, later pursuing graduate studies at Texas Christian University. Scaife soon found himself on Broadway, embarking on a vibrant entertainment career. His initial foray into the music realm commenced at KFFA Radio in Arkansas, where he honed his skills in broadcasting.

His pivotal moment came while working at Hi Records in Memphis, where he caught the eye of legendary producer Sam Phillips. In the fall of 1958, Scaife became the first National Sales and Promotion Manager for Sun Records, a significant role in the burgeoning rock and roll scene. Phillips also assigned him to manage WLIZ, an innovative “all-girls” radio station in Palm Beach, although this position was short-lived.

In 1961, Scaife relocated to Nashville to assist Phillips in establishing a new recording studio. The following year, he founded the gospel label Songs of Faith, which he later sold to join Columbia Records as an account executive. In April 1972, he took a leap into independence, launching Music Incorporated in 1974 and reacquiring Songs of Faith from Bill Beasley. Scaife remained a vital part of the Nashville music landscape until his retirement in 1998, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.