Hell-Bent For Music

" King is probably best remembered as the co-writer of the most popular country music song of all time, "The Tennessee Waltz." He is just as important, however, for his role in expanding the horizons, and the market potential, of country and western music. He made country music respectable and brought it into the mainstream of American culture. He took the polka and waltz rhythms of his youth, mixed them with the sounds of the big bands of the thirties and forties, and flavored it all with the balladry and modes of the Western cowboy. He combined this new sound with folk and country traditions rooted in places like Louisville, Knoxville, and Nashville. The result was a smooth, listenable, danceable, up-to-date sound that has become the most popular form of music in the United States. Recipient of numerous awards, including induction into both the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame, Pee Wee King has been one of the most important figures in country music for over sixty years. Told in King's own voice and words, this biography, based on many hours of taped conversations, is the first account of King's incredible life and career. Featuring a star-studded cast of characters form the history of music-Gene Autry, Eddy Arnold, Minnie Pearl, Roy Acuff, Hank Williams, Patti Page, and many others-this memorable book is a must read for any country music fan.