Biography

Country performer. Born July 17, 1918. Died April 4, 1980. Real name: Woodrow Wilson Sovine. Singer and songwriter; specialized in recitations. Career most active late 1950s-early 1970s. His songwriting-recording credits include “Little Rosa,” “Phantom 309,” “Giddyup Go,” and “Teddy Bear.” He also wrote hits for other artists, including “Missing You,” recorded by Jim Reeves, and “Why Baby Why,” recorded by Webb Pierce.

Interview Summary

1975 September 3
(1 hour, 38 minutes)
Country performer Red Sovine describes the early years of his career. Discussion includes his childhood and early musical influences; his relationship to country artist Billy Cox; his early work with Johnnie Bailes as Johnnie & Red, the Singing Sailors; his experiences as a radio performer; his guitars; his career outside of the music business; experiences surrounding his decision to return to music full-time, including his work at KWKH in Shreveport, Louisiana,, and WSFA in Montgomery, Alabama; joining the Grand Ole Opry and establishing himself as a performer; working with Jim Denny; his recording career; the impact of his career on his personal life; working on the Louisiana Hayride; hosting the Johnny Fair Syrup program and his work for the sponsor; experiences working with Groovy Boy; and his move back to Nashville in the mid-1950s.