Biography

Country music performer. Born December 19, 1908. Died March 17, 2003. Full name: William Toliver Carlisle. Career active late 1930s-early 2000s. Singer, guitarist, songwriter, and comedian. Performed solo and with his brother Cliff as a member of the Carlisle Brothers. Later he formed the group the Carlisles with whom he recorded some of his most memorable songs, including “Too Old to Cut the Mustard,” “Is Zat You Myrtle,” and “No Help Wanted.” Member, Country Music Hall of Fame®.

Interview Summary

1976 February 18
(1 hour, 38 minutes)
Performer Bill Carlisle talks about his long career in country music. Discussion includes his childhood; changing from the Carlisle Brothers to the Carlisles; an overview of his early career; the start of his career with Art Satherley; early work with Chet Atkins; early musical influences; the Carlisle Brothers; comments on changes in country entertainment; changes in his performance style; Cliff Carlisle’s retirement from music; the formation of the Carlisles; his songwriting and working with Acuff-Rose; and memories from his career.