Tennessee Ernie Ford Quotes

Singer
USA
1919

Tennessee Ernie Ford was an American singer, songwriter, and television host, best known for his deep, resonant voice and his hit song “Sixteen Tons.” Born in 1919 in Bristol, Tennessee, Ford began his career as a radio announcer before signing with Capitol Records in 1949. He achieved widespread success with “Sixteen Tons,” which topped the charts for ten weeks in 1955. Ford went on to release numerous other popular songs, including “The Ballad of Davy Crockett” and “Mule Train.” He also hosted his own variety show, “The Ford Show,” from 1956 to 1961. Ford’s rich baritone voice and down-to-earth persona made him a beloved figure in the world of country and popular music. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1990 and passed away in 1991 at the age of 72.Read Less

3 Best Tennessee Ernie Ford Quotes

You load sixteen tons, what do you get? Another day older and deeper in debt. Feraz Zeid, December 22, 2023, Tennessee Ernie Ford, Debt, Work, 0

- Tennessee Ernie Ford

Singer

· USA

Debt
Work

I tell you, I was as nervous as a long-tailed cat in a roomful of rockers! Feraz Zeid, December 22, 2023, Tennessee Ernie Ford, Cat, Nervous, 0

- Tennessee Ernie Ford

Singer

· USA

Cat
Nervous

If you see me coming, better step aside. A lotta men didn’t, a lotta men died. Feraz Zeid, December 22, 2023, Tennessee Ernie Ford, Egotism, Steps, 0

- Tennessee Ernie Ford

Singer

· USA

Tennessee Ernie Ford Career Highlights

Ford’s career began in the 1940s when he joined the United States Army Air Corps and performed for the troops during World War II.
In 1949, he signed with Capitol Records and released his first hit single, “Mule Train,” which sold over a million copies.
Ford’s biggest hit came in 1955 with “Sixteen Tons,” which topped the charts for ten weeks and sold over 20 million copies worldwide.
He also had several other successful singles, including “The Ballad of Davy Crockett” and “The Shotgun Boogie.”
In addition to his music career, Ford also had a successful acting career, appearing in films such as “I Love Lucy” and “The Red Skelton Hour.”
In 1956, he became the host of his own variety show, “The Ford Show,” which ran for five years and featured popular guests such as Bing Crosby and Ella Fitzgerald.
Ford was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1990, a year before his passing.

Key Contributions by Tennessee Ernie Ford

Ford’s deep, resonant voice and unique blend of country, pop, and gospel music made him stand out in the music industry.
He was one of the first country artists to crossover to the pop charts, paving the way for future artists to do the same.
Ford’s music often addressed social and political issues, such as poverty and the working class, making him a relatable and influential figure.
He was also known for his collaborations with other artists, including his duet with Kay Starr on “I’ll Never Be Free” and his gospel album with the Jordanaires.

What Sets Tennessee Ernie Ford Apart

Ford’s versatility as a singer, actor, and television host set him apart from his peers.
He was able to appeal to a wide audience with his music, from country fans to pop music lovers.
Ford’s deep, booming voice was instantly recognizable and became his trademark.
He was also known for his warm and friendly personality, making him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Takeaways

Tennessee Ernie Ford was a multi-talented artist who left a lasting impact on the music industry.
His unique blend of country, pop, and gospel music, along with his powerful voice, set him apart from other artists of his time.
Ford’s contributions to music and television have influenced future generations of artists and entertainers.
He will always be remembered as a pioneer in the crossover of country music to the mainstream and for his timeless hits that continue to be enjoyed by audiences today.

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