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Back to Oral History
  • Oral History

Roy Acuff

October 10, 1972 OH276 155 min.
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Biography


Country music performer and recording artist. Born September 15, 1903. Died November 23, 1992. Star of Knoxville radio in the 1930s. Grand Ole Opry performer 1938-early 1990s. Co-founder Acuff-Rose Publications. Member, Country Music Hall of Fame®.

Interview Summary

1972 October 10
(2 hours, 55 minutes)

Grand Ole Opry star Roy Acuff draws on his experience to describe and analyze the differences in country music entertainment from past to present. He contrasts the early years of his career with current trends in country music. Discussion includes a brief recap of his early life and career, including his efforts to get on the Grand Ole Opry; the start of Acuff-Rose Publications; and memories of early country performers including Hank Williams, Ernest Tubb, and Bob Wills.