Hank Williams Country Music Career
Hank Williams SR became one of America’s first country music superstars with hits like ‘’Your Cheatin’ Heart,’’ before his early death at 29. In 1946 Williams traveled to Nashville to meet with music publisher Fred Rose and the Acuff-Rose Publications company. What began with Williams writing material for singer Molly O'Day eventually gave way to a record contract with the recently created MGM label. Hank Williams SR was a great country music superstar. Hank Williams was considered one of the most popular American country singer/songwriters. A year after first meeting with Fred Ros, Williams had his first hit, ‘’Move It on Over.’’ In 1948 he scored a second Billboard success with ‘’Honky Tonkin’.’’ Along with his success came increased erratic
behavior from Williams, who often showed up at live performances drunk.
Getting a number on hit is difficult. The performances greatly increased Williams’ name recognition but he still lacked a number one hit. That all changed in 1949 with the release of ‘’Lovesick Blues.’’ The song resonated with music fans, as well as executives at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, who invited him to perform there.
Troubling times can be hard. As the titles of some of Williams’ songs suggest, heartbreak, and turmoil were never that far from his life. As his success deepened, so did Williams’ dependence on alcohol and morphine.
behavior from Williams, who often showed up at live performances drunk.
Getting a number on hit is difficult. The performances greatly increased Williams’ name recognition but he still lacked a number one hit. That all changed in 1949 with the release of ‘’Lovesick Blues.’’ The song resonated with music fans, as well as executives at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, who invited him to perform there.
Troubling times can be hard. As the titles of some of Williams’ songs suggest, heartbreak, and turmoil were never that far from his life. As his success deepened, so did Williams’ dependence on alcohol and morphine.