Sixteen Tons
Tennessee Ernie Ford was one of the biggest singing stars in the '50s. After an Army stint during World War II, Ford left his Southern roots for the proto-fame of several radio jobs in Los Angeles. He soon met bassist and Capitol A&R; man Cliffie Stone and proceeded to cut a slew of hit sides for the label. The country bumpkin character Ford had developed in radio was put in front of the mike and surrounded by some of Capitol's top country session men. Along with Stone, Ford's band included the likes of guitarist Jimmy Bryant, pedal-steel wizard Speedy West, drummer Roy Harte, and pianist Billy Liebert. This generous Bear Family disc rounds up 25 of Ford's prime Capitol sides, including the hit title track and sides bearing both his Ma & Pa Kettle persona and more straightforward honky tonk in the Hank Williams mode. Beyond Ford's incredibly varied singing, there's a wealth of stellar contributions from his cohorts -- Bryant and Liebman are particularly impressive. As usual, Bear Family provides excellent notes and very thorough discography details. A must for fans of vintage country music. ~ Stephen Cook, All Music Guide