What is the story behind the song Big John?
This song is told from the point of view of the “Cajun Queen” that drove John away – her search for him, then discovering about his death. Its 1962 sequel, “The Cajun Queen”, describes the arrival of “Queenie”, Big John’s Cajun Queen, who rescues John from the mine and marries him.
What was Tennessee Ernie Ford’s big hit?
Back in 1955 and early 1956, the top song was about the hard life and poverty of being a coal miner called Tennessee Ernie Ford’s “Sixteen Tons.” The song was written and released back in the 1940s, although it became a big hit when Ford covered it.
Was Tennessee Ernie Ford a bass or baritone?
baritone
Ernest Jennings “Tennessee Ernie” Ford, a resonant-voiced baritone and master of good-natured corn, rose to great popularity during the 1950s and 1960s. Ford’s first spiritual album, Hymns, was certified gold in 1959; by 1963 it was the biggest-selling album in Capitol’s catalogue.
What year did Tennessee Ernie Ford release 16 tons?
1955
It was also on October 17, this time in 1955, that one of Ford’s most important and well-known songs was released: “Sixteen Tons.” Born Ernest Jennings Ford in Bristol, Tennessee, on February 13, 1919, Ford would become a local legend and a national treasure.
Is the song Big John Based on a true story?
The inspiration for the character of Big John was an actor, John Minto, that Dean met who was 6’5″. Dean would call him “Big John” and grew to like the rolling sound of the phrase. Country pianist Floyd Cramer, who was hired to play piano on the song, came up with the idea to use a hammer and a piece of steel instead.
What’s a Cajun Queen?
For those wondering what a Cajun Queen is, it is a term of endearment for a man that dresses as a woman during Mardi Gras. Usually the manner of dress is exaggerated and accentuates the female form.
Why was Sixteen Tons such a big hit song?
Tennessee Ernie Ford recorded “Sixteen Tons” in 1955 as the B-side of his cover of the Moon Mullican standard “You Don’t Have to Be a Baby to Cry”. With Ford’s snapping fingers and a unique clarinet-driven pop arrangement, it quickly became a million seller.
Was Ernie Ford an alcoholic?
Well, unknown to many of his millions of fans, Ernie battled alcoholism for many years of his adult life. After suffering liver failure, Ernie Ford passed away at the age of 72 on October 17, 1991. It was exactly 36 years to the day that ‘Sixteen Tons’ was released.
Is Jimmy Dean dead?
Deceased (1928–2010)Jimmy Dean / Living or Deceased
Who is Tennessee Ernie Ford?
Ernest Jennings Ford (February 13, 1919 – October 17, 1991), known professionally as Tennessee Ernie Ford, was an American recording artist and television host who enjoyed success in the country and Western, pop and gospel musical genres.
What happened to Ernie Ford’s second wife?
His second wife, Beverly Wood Ford (1921–2001), died 10 years after Ernie; her body was interred with his. This Lusty Land! This Lusty Land! b/w “Lonely Man” (from Bless Your Pea Pickin’ Heart!)
What is Tennessee Ford’s full name?
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Ernest Jennings Ford (February 13, 1919 – October 17, 1991), known professionally as Tennessee Ernie Ford, was an American singer and television host who enjoyed success in the country and Western, pop, and gospel musical genres.
What are the best Ernie Ford hymns?
The Best of Tennessee Ernie Ford Hymns: 1969 Songs I Like to Sing: New Wave: Holy Holy: 1970 America the Beautiful: 192 Everything Is Beautiful: 1971 Abide with Me: C-H-R-I-S-T-M-A-S: Folk Album: 1972 Mr. Words and Music: Standin’ in the Need of Prayer: 1973 Country Morning: 46 Ernie Ford Sings About Jesus: 1974 Make A Joyful Noise: 35 1975