Biography

Son of songwriter and original Sons of the Pioneers member, Tim Spencer. Born 1936. President and CEO of his father’s music publishing company, Manna Music.

Interview Summary

1974 June 26
(3 hours, 6 minutes)
Hal Spencer, son of songwriter and original Sons of the Pioneer member Tim Spencer, recalls highlights from his father’s career. Discussion includes Tim Spencer’s early history and the start of his musical career; his move to California; the formation of the original Sons of the Pioneers; an overview of the group’s movie career; Spencer’s songwriting; memories of the group’s working style, including a description of their harmony style and a typical stage show; Tim Spencer’s involvement in religious work and publishing, including his company Manna Music; an overview of Hal’s career; memories from the early years of the Sons of the Pioneers, including the origin of the group’s name; and memories of the group’s members, including Bob Nolan and Roy Rogers.