Born and raised in Alabama, Williams learned guitar from African-American blues musician Rufus Payne in exchange for meals or money. Payne, along with Roy Acuff and Ernest Tubb, had a significant influence on Williams' musical style. Williams began his professional career in Montgomery in 1937 when local radio station WSFA hired him to perform on a 15-minute program. He formed the Drifting Cowboys backup band, which was managed by his mother, and dropped out of school to devote his time to his career. When several of his band members were drafted during World War II, he had trouble with their replacements, and WSFA terminated his contract because of his alcoholism.
Who were Hank Williams early musical influences?
As a child Hank Williams was influenced by popular country artists such as Roy Acuff and Earnest Tubb, but he was also influenced by African-American blues musician Rufus Payne. Payne taught Williams how to play guitar, and was a significant influence on his musical style.