Sings Hank Williams
Other albums by Johnny Cash
Facts about the album "Sings Hank Williams"
Meta Information:
- Artist: Johnny Cash
- Album Title: Sings Hank Williams
- Release Date: 1960
- Label: Sun Records
- Genre: Country, Honky Tonk
- Producer: Sam Phillips (Uncredited)
"Sings Hank Williams" is an album by Johnny Cash, released in 1960 under Sun Records. This album features Cash's renditions of several Hank Williams classics, along with other country standards. Although not exclusively comprising Hank Williams songs, the album highlights the influence Williams had on Cash's musical style. This collection is particularly notable for showcasing Cash's deep, resonant voice and his straightforward yet emotive performance style, aligning with the honky-tonk and country roots that Williams epitomized.
Interesting Facts:
Influence and Tribute: While the album is titled "Sings Hank Williams", it includes only a few tracks actually written by Hank Williams. The choice to name the album after Williams reflects both the commercial strategy of Sun Records and the deep respect Cash had for Williams as a major influence on his music.
Timing and Label Strategy: The release of "Sings Hank Williams" coincided with Johnny Cash's departure from Sun Records, as he moved to a more lucrative deal with Columbia Records. Sun capitalized on the unreleased material they had of Cash to continue benefiting from his rising fame, thus compiling this album to maintain interest among his fan base.
Mixed Repertoire: Apart from featuring Hank Williams songs, the album also includes works by other significant country composers, showcasing Cash's versatility and broad musical interests. This mix further underlined Cash's ability to interpret and honor the legacy of country music icons, making the classics resonate with the audience of that era and beyond.