Biography

Country gospel singer and songwriter. Born May 31, 1916. Career most active mid-1930s-1950s. Real name: Odell McLeod. Worked extensively as a radio performer, including work at WWL, New Orleans, WJJD Chicago, and WLAC, Nashville. Performed as part of the duo Mac & Slim and later with his wife as Mac Odell and Little Addie. Wrote several country gospel standards, including “The Glory-Bound Train,” “From the Manger to the Cross,” and “Thirty Pieces of Silver.”

Interview Summary

1984 June 8
(1 hour, 45 minutes)
Mac Odell talks about his career in country music during the 1930s and 1940s. Discussion includes his start in music; development of his interest in gospel songwriting; the musical background of his wife, Addie McLeod; his work as part of Mac & Slim; experiences during the Depression; his work as a radio performer; joining Suppertime Frolic on WJJD Chicago; his songwriting and contract with Acuff-Rose; Roy Acuff’s performance of his songs; and his move to Nashville.