Biography

Country songwriter and performer. Born August 9, 1934. Died February 6, 2005. Long-time opening act for Hank Williams, Jr. and manager of Hank Williams Jr. Enterprises. His songwriting credits include “Wolverton Mountain,” “Ring of Fire,” and “Johnny Reb.” Member, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Interview Summary

1975 November 13
(1 hour, 20 minutes)
Merle Kilgore recalls highlights from his career in country music. Discussion includes his childhood and early musical interests; his first radio show; experiences during country music’s early years in Louisiana and meeting Webb Pierce, Faron Young, Hank Williams, and Elvis Presley; his first recording session and working with Sonny James; the story behind “Wolverton Mountain”; the story behind “More and More”; his songwriting techniques; the story behind “Ring of Fire”; and comments on changes in country music.