Biography

Songwriter. Born September 21, 1912. Died October 6, 1996. Full name: Theron Eugene Daffan. Songwriter, performer, and steel guitar pioneer. Most active on the Texas country scene during the 1930s and 1940s with Cliff Bruner’s Bar X Cowboys. Solo career during the 1940s. His major songwriting credits include “Born to Lose,” “Worried Mind,” and “I’m a Fool to Care.” Member, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Interview Summary

1968 January 31
(31 minutes)
Country songwriter and performer Ted Daffan recalls highlights from his career. Discussion includes his musical education and interest in Hawaiian music; his early career; start of his songwriting; the story behind his pen name, Frankie Brown; working with Art Satherley; his recording career; the most rewarding aspect of his career; and his overall view of life as a musician.