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Hank Williams

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Born 17 September 1923. Died 01 January 1953.

country music legend

Hank Williams performs as Luke the Drifter.

Photo of Hank Williams The Secret Machines, photographed in Santa Barbara, CA 2004 *Higher Rates Apply**NoTabloid

Biography

Hiram King "Hank" Williams (September 17, 1923 – January 1, 1953) was an American singer and songwriter and musician who has become an icon of country music and one of the most influential songwriters of the 20th century. A leading pioneer of the honky tonk style, he had numerous hit records, and his charismatic performances and succinct compositions increased his fame.

His songbook is a backbone of country music, and several of his songs are pop standards as well. He has been covered in a range of pop, gospel, blues and rock styles. His death at the age of 29 helped fuel his legend. His son Hank, Jr., daughter Jett, and grandchildren Hank Williams III, Holly Williams, and Hilary Williams are also professional singers. He was ranked 27th in Rolling Stone's Greatest Singers of All Time.

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Latest Blog Posts Really Simple Syndication

Blogs from the BBC

  1. Tom Russell: Savage Rants from the Minstrel Trail - Part 1

    Wed 7 Oct 2009 14:43 Tom Russell writes: There is no danger. Not anymore. Not in song. Bob Dylan walked out... Mike Harding

BBC Reviews Really Simple Syndication

  1. The Unreleased Recordings 2008

    The Unreleased Recordings (disc 1)

    Reviewed by Jon Lusk

    Williams' extraordinarily nasal, moaning drawl frequently sends shivers down the spine.
  2. Lost Highway And Other Live Favourites

    Lost Highway And Other Live Favourites

    Reviewed by Cormac Heron

    Hank took the old church songs and threw them on the back of his horse...

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