Sing a Sad Song: The life of Hank Williams

by Roger M. Williams

A sentimental biography of the short-lived but immensely popular country music legend from Alabama best known for his "Lovesick Blues" and "Cold, Cold Heart."

Genres: Biography, Music, Nonfiction

328 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1981

Reviews

[Robert Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastically detailed look at how Hank got to the top of the pop/country pile. Author must have been a journalist. This book stayed with me for a long time after I read it. It may be dated now, but if you get a chance, pick up a copy if you are REALLY into the roots of country. For example, drums were not allowed at the Grand Old Opry way back when due to some weird religious/social inhibitions about overly "secular" music, which might be associated with jazz junkies or the then-emerging and already ungodly rock n' roll. Not kidding. I had never noticed the soft drumming in the background of early country (late 40s, early 50s) before, but that explains it. OK, stuff like that.

[Kyle Berry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Growing up I had a copy of "Hank William's Greatest Hits" and kept it spinning all the time. I gathered from here and there how his story basically went, but this book added many years and layers to his story. Knowing that I was inevitably going to read the page that detailed his tragic passing gave it a hint of suspense as well. It is a well-written account with plenty of insight from a wide variety of primary sources. If you have ever enjoyed a Hank Williams song, this book is worth a read.

[Knowingest Drawbridges · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating read, well written and downright funny at times. Some archaic racial language unfortunately