Biography

Country music performer and bandleader. Born July 10, 1908. Died June 18, 1984. Full name: Paul Jack Howard. Career most active 1940s-1950s. Bandleader of the Arkansas Cotton Pickers who appeared on the Grand Ole Opry during the 1940s. Credited with bringing western swing sounds to the Opry. Band alumni including prominent guitarists Grady Martin and Hank Garland.

Interview Summary

1975 June 16
(3 hours, 2 minutes)
Musician and bandleader Paul Howard talks about his career in country music. Discussion includes his first appearance on the Grand Old Opry; his decision to play western swing; his impression of Judge Hay; his early musical influences; his start as a performer in the early 1930s; his experiences working on radio; his songwriting, including “Mother’s Prayer”; his band; changes in country music from the early format to the popularity of artists like Eddy Arnold; his recording sessions; and comments on his experiences working in country music during the 1930s-1960s.