September 17, 1923 - January 1, 1953

Hank Williams began his musical career at an early age in his home state of Alabama. By age 14, Hank had formed his first band and was playing square dances and other local events. During the war years, he organized a new band entitled the Drifting Cowboys. In 1946, Hank made his first commercial recordings for Sterling records. The following year, he was under contract with the more upscale MGM label. A series of top-10 hits followed, but it was Lovesick Blues that brought Williams into the national spotlight. The Grand Ole Opry, which had previously denied Hank's request for a guest appearance, now was compelled to reconsider. On June 11, 1949, Hank made his Opry debut and introduced Lovesick Blues. He was called back for an unparalleled 6 encores. Opry officials quickly signed him up as a regular cast member.

Success came with a price as during the next four years, Hank struggled with personal problems. Subsequently, he was fired from the Opry and left feeling dejected and lonely. On January 1, 1953, Hank Williams died in the back seat of his automobile. He was only 29 years old.

Over the years his music has played a vital role in forming the direction of modern country music. In 1961, the Country Music Association began its Hall of Fame induction. Fittingly, Hank Williams and Jimmie Rodgers were the first two members elected.

There are dozens of compact disc available on Hank Williams. If you are interested in his major hits, then we suggest the above-pictured CD. Entitled 40 Greatest Hits and released on PolyGram Records, this is the ultimate Hank Williams collection for the budget minded shopper.


40 Greatest Hits is currently available at


Career Highlights

Birth Place - Mount Olive, AL

Major record Label - MGM

First Top 10 - Move It On Over (1947)

Biggest Hit - Lovesick Blues (1949)

Chart Run - 1947 - 1989

37 Top 10 Hits

Major Awards/Achievements

Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame (1961)

Hank Williams Home Page

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Revised: 11/4/1999 | Thanks for visiting!