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  • Oral History

Karl Davis

June 9, 1974 OH42 85 min.
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Biography


Country musician, songwriter, and radio performer. Born December 17, 1905. Died May 30, 1979. Popular on Chicago radio stations WLS and WJJD as a member of Karl & Harty and the Cumberland Ridge Runners. Career active 1930s-1940s. Writer of several popular country songs, including “Kentucky,” and “I’m Here To Get My Baby Out of Jail.”

Interview Summary

1974 June 9
(1 hour, 25 minutes)
Musician Karl Davis discusses his radio career in Chicago during the 1930s and 1940s focusing on his years at WJJD Chicago and his return to WLS Chicago. Discussion includes the move to WJJD from WLS; his work after retiring from music; the end of the National Barn Dance; the first recordings of Karl & Harty; changes at WLS; recordings of his songs, including “Kentucky”; record producers Steve Sholes and Art Satherley; booking agent J. L. Frank; memories from stage performances and recording sessions; and a description of the Karl & Harty performing style.