Tennessee Ernie Ford

Tennessee Ernie Ford (1919-1991) was a country singer whose biggest hit was his 1955 cover of "Sixteen Tons." On TV, he hosted the 1956 to 1961 variety series The Ford Show (simultaneously plugging its sponsor and star). The series also featured animated introductions by the Peanuts cast, prior to their own specials.
Ford wrote many of his own original songs and was known for his gospel recordings (typically closing his show with a religious song or hymn). Before achieving his own breakout success, he made three guest appearances on I Love Lucy as hillbilly Cousin Ernie. Later credits included playing the title role in the Rankin/Bass special The Mouse on the Mayflower.
Several of Ford's songs were lip-synced to on Sam and Friends. His songs "One Suit" and "The Watermelon Suit" were on Jim Henson's song lists, but their actual use on the show or other Muppet appearances is unconfirmed.Shemin, Craig. Sam and Friends: The Story of Jim Henson's First Television Show p. 532-533.
==Records used==
*"Don't Start Courtin' in a Hot Rod" (1953) with Molly Bee, written by Ford. Transcribed on September 15, 1955.ibid. p. 255
*"Sixteen Tons" (1955) conducted by Jack Fascinato. Transcribed on November 8, 1955.ibid. p. 260
*"Ivy League" (1957) written by Ford and Fascinato. Transcribed on July 24, 1957.ibid. p. 284
*"Ain't Nobody's Business But My Own" (1957) with Dorothy Gill. Transcribed on September 18, 1958.ibid. p. 296
==Sources==
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Category:Musical References
Category:Covered Songwriters