Crossword Genius

Was the lead singer a big stockholder? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rancher

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'a big stockholder?' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?

'was the lead singer' is the wordplay.
'was the lead' becomes 'ran' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'singer' becomes 'cher' (American singer).
'ran'+'cher'='RANCHER'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for rancher that I've seen before include "Cattle baron" , "A cowboy" , "US cattle breeder" , "Hacienda owner" , "US cattle farmer" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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