Grand Ole Opry 39-10-28 (xxxx) First Song - Whoa Mule, Whoa

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – Grand Ole Opry 39-10-28 (xxxx) First Song - Whoa Mule, Whoa

Release Date: May 3, 2025
Host: Harolds Old Time Radio
Episode Title: Grand Ole Opry 39-10-28 (xxxx) First Song - Whoa Mule, Whoa

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Introduction

In this episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are transported back to October 28, 1939, with a vibrant broadcast of the Grand Ole Opry, hosted by George Hay, affectionately known as "the solemn old judge." This episode captures the essence of the Golden Age of Radio, featuring beloved performances and charming interactions that defined family entertainment before the advent of television.

Show Opening and Host Welcome

The broadcast begins with George Hay warmly greeting the audience:

"How do you do, everybody? From Nashville, Tennessee, Prince Albert, the world's most popular smoking tobacco, presents another broadcast of the South's most popular radio program, the Grand Ole Opry."
[00:15]

Hay proudly announces the night’s lineup, highlighting the show's expansion to a broader network:

"This same program with the same people you have been listening to for the past 14 years, only now we're on a network of stations that reaches all the way from the Mexican border to the mountains of Virginia."
[00:31]

Performance Segment: Roy Acuff and His Smoky Mountain Boys

The evening kicks off with Roy Acuff and his Smoky Mountain Boys performing the lively track "Whoa Mule, Whoa." Acuff captivates the audience with his heartfelt lyrics and charismatic delivery:

"Hardest work ever done was dig around the pine. The easiest work ever done is a lovely girl of mine you too say."
[02:25]

This performance sets a festive tone, blending traditional country melodies with engaging storytelling.

Uncle Dave Macon’s "Chewing Gum"

Following Acuff, Uncle Dave Macon takes the stage with his son, Doris, delivering the playful song "Chewing Gum." Macon's jovial performance is a crowd favorite:

"I'm going to sing you about my pretty little girl. She's just as pretty as a plum."
[04:01]

His rendition, filled with humor and catchy tunes, highlights the familial and communal spirit of the Opry night.

The Crook Brothers and "A Breakdown, Sally Gooden"

Next, The Crook Brothers Band performs "A Breakdown, Sally Gooden," a classic Old Time tune that has resonated with audiences for years. David Stone, the show's announcer, praises their performance:

"That puts us right back in the middle of the road."
[06:46]

Their skilled musicianship and harmonious vocals add depth to the evening's musical tapestry.

Zeke Clements’ "Rockin and Rolling in the Saddle"

Bringing an energetic vibe, Zeke Clements, the Dixie Yodeler, performs "Rockin and Rolling in the Saddle." His dynamic performance is both spirited and technically impressive:

"Rocking and rolling in the saddle, singing the song all day."
[08:28]

Clements' ability to infuse traditional sounds with lively rhythms keeps the audience thoroughly entertained.

Ford Reich's "There's a Gold Mine in the Sky"

Adding a rich baritone to the mix, Ford Reich delivers the heartfelt song "There's a Gold Mine in the Sky." His performance is imbued with optimism and a sense of adventure:

"Far away, far away we will find that long lost gold mine in the sky."
[10:59]

Reich's soulful interpretation invites listeners to dream of prosperous and peaceful horizons.

Uncle Dave Macon’s "Kissing on the Sly"

Returning to the stage, Uncle Dave Macon performs "Kissing on the Sly," a song that blends romance with playful mischief. His engaging storytelling through music captures the audience's imagination:

"Those two blue eyes are closed in death forever in her grave."
[14:07]

Macon's ability to convey emotion through his lyrics adds a poignant layer to the evening's performances.

Zeke Clements’ "Freight Train Blue"

In a melancholic yet melodious performance, Zeke Clements sings "Freight Train Blue," evoking the nostalgia and yearning associated with long journeys and lost love:

"I got the freight train blues, when that whistle blows I've got to go."
[21:17]

Clements' soulful delivery underscores the song's themes of longing and movement.

Ford Rush’s "Beautiful Texas"

Shifting the spotlight to the Lone Star State, Ford Rush performs "Beautiful Texas," celebrating the state's natural beauty and cultural heritage:

"In beautiful Texas where the beautiful blue bonnets grow."
[23:54]

Rush's patriotic ode resonates with Texas pride, enhancing the communal spirit of the Opry.

Roy Acuff’s "Soldier's Joy"

Concluding the musical lineup, Roy Acuff leads the ensemble in "Soldier's Joy," a lively and spirited tune that embodies the joyful and resilient spirit of the era:

"Swing the gal from Arkansas, swing a high, swing a low."
[28:02]

The performance brings the evening to a high-energy close, leaving listeners uplifted and connected.

Host Interactions and Announcements

Throughout the broadcast, George Hay and David Stone maintain a warm and engaging rapport with the audience, sharing anecdotes and highlighting the talents of the performers. Notably, Hay emphasizes the authenticity and quality of the sponsors without overshadowing the performances:

"Prince Albert burned 86 degrees cooler than the average of 30 other of the largest selling brands tested."
[03:26]

Stone keeps the momentum with upbeat commentary:

"Well, friends, here he is, our senator from the Cannon county hills with a new bill to put before the house."
[04:01]

Conclusion and Future Programming

As the evening winds down, George Hay reminds listeners of upcoming shows and maintains the sense of community:

"The Grand Ole Opry will be heard at the same time, same station next Saturday night. We hope you'll be listening."
[28:46]

Hay also previews other radio entertainment options, ensuring listeners have a variety of programming to enjoy:

"Monday night, tune in Blondie, the adventures of that famous comic strip couple, Blondie and Dagwood Bumstead."
[29:04]

David Stone signs off with well-wishes, encapsulating the friendly and inclusive atmosphere of the show:

"Good night and good luck, everybody."
[29:04]

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Key Takeaways

• Community and Tradition: The episode embodies the close-knit community spirit of the Grand Ole Opry, showcasing a blend of entertaining performances and heartfelt interactions.

• Diverse Talent: Featuring a range of artists like Roy Acuff, Uncle Dave Macon, and Zeke Clements, the show highlights the rich tapestry of Old Time Music and its enduring appeal.

• Engaging Storytelling: Through songs and host commentary, the broadcast weaves stories of love, hard work, and nostalgia, resonating with listeners of all ages.

• Cultural Representation: Performances like Ford Rush’s "Beautiful Texas" celebrate regional pride and cultural heritage, reinforcing the Opry's role in representing Southern traditions.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Roy Acuff:
  "Hardest work ever done was dig around the pine. The easiest work ever done is a lovely girl of mine you too say."
  [02:25]

• Uncle Dave Macon:
  "Those two blue eyes are closed in death forever in her grave."
  [14:07]

• Zeke Clements:
  "I got the freight train blues, when that whistle blows I've got to go."
  [21:17]

• Ford Rush:
  "In beautiful Texas where the beautiful blue bonnets grow."
  [23:54]

• George Hay:
  "The Grand Ole Opry will be heard at the same time, same station next Saturday night. We hope you'll be listening."
  [28:46]

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This episode of Harold's Old Time Radio effectively captures the charm and vibrancy of the Grand Ole Opry during its golden era, offering listeners a nostalgic glimpse into the musical heritage that continues to influence American culture today.

Transcript

[Roy Acuff]

Most people would rather remove a nest of irate hornets than search for auto and home insurance. That's why the zebra searches for you. Comparing over 100 insurance companies to find.

[Zeke Clements]

Savings no one else can Compare.

[Roy Acuff]

[e-mail] I think I'll wait inside.

[George Hay]

How do you do, everybody? From Nashville, Tennessee, Prince Albert, the world's most popular smoking tobacco, presents another broadcast of the South's most popular radio program, the Grand Ole Opry.

[Roy Acuff]

Got my Sunday shoes on Got my hair slicked down Having a big time tonight can of the Prince Albert boys were pleasure bound Having a big time tonight Going to the hoedown in the Sunday coast Having a big time tonight Gonna still be dancing when rooster crow Having a big time tonight yes, friends.

[George Hay]

It'S the Grand Ole Opry. This same program with the same people you have been listening to for the past 14 years, only now we're on a network of stations that reaches all the way from the Mexican border to the mountains of Virginia. We are mighty proud and happy to be on this network, and we are mighty proud of our sponsor, the people who make Prince Albert smoking tobacco. Tonight, Prince Albert presents Uncle Dave Macon, the Dixie Dewdrop. Roy Acuff and his Smoky Mountain Boys. Ford Reich, Zeke Clements, the Dixie Odler and the Crook Brothers Band. And here again is George Hay, the solemn old judge, our master of ceremonies.

[David Stone]

Thank you, David Stone, very, very much. And howdy, neighbors. Here we are slipping up on Halloween with the Grand Ole Opry boys and girls decked out in their harvest bib and tucker for tonight's shindig. The Grand Ole Opry house is filled with friends not only from Tennessee, but from many neighboring states. Roy Acuff and his Smoky Mountain Boys lead the way with a little intermezzo early Americano, one of the more modern of the operies entitled Whoa mule, whoa. Let it go.

[Roy Acuff]

Hardest work ever done was dig around the pine. The easiest work ever done is a lovely girl of mine you to say.

[David Stone]

I ain't got time to kiss you.

[Roy Acuff]

Now Muse running away there we are.

[David Stone]

Off to a big start on the Grand Ole Opry. Come on in, David Stone, and give us some good news, men.

[George Hay]

Here are some facts on smoking tobacco that may be news to some of you. Scientific tests were made recently at a leading independent laboratory to find the coolest smoking tobacco. The tests were scientific smoking bowl tests made with an automatic smoking and heat registering machine. Prince Albert burned 86 degrees cooler than the average of 30 other of the largest selling brands tested. Coolest of all. Now that's the national joy smoke for you folks. Cool, burning, mild, yet full of good rich flavor. Try Prince Albert.

[David Stone]

Well, friends, here he is, our senator from the Cannon county hills with a new bill to put before the house. A bill which carries a heavy penalty for being down in the mouth. He's none other than that swashbuckling wheel horse with his five gallon hat gates ajar collar, gold teeth shining in the footlights three banjos and the smile that'll melt January snow on a hillside. Uncle Dave making the Dixie Dew Drop with his son Doris. The tune is an old favorite. Chewing gum. All right, Uncle Dave.

[Uncle Dave Macon]

I'm going to sing you about my pretty little girl. She's just as pretty as a plum. Habit she had was one that was bad she was always Whenever she came to Sunday school she always come with a chum. Oh, right where they said and right where they sat they were both a chewing she had feathers and finery and an extra ostrich plume But I will declare she couldn't put on an air without her master blue.

[George Hay]

She dressed so.

[Uncle Dave Macon]

Neat and she looked so sweet her silks and her hat were so plum Wherever she went Lord, she spent every cent for chewing Whenever she walked out of town she always did look so.

[Roy Acuff]

Cute.

[Uncle Dave Macon]

Every merchant she'd knock for she'd call for a box of.

[David Stone]

Ah, that's fine. Fine finish, Uncle Dave. Looks like a good season ahead. Now we present one of the Old Time tunes which has been a favorite on the Grand Ole Opry lo these many years. A Breakdown, Sally Gooden, the Crook Brothers and their Old Time Band are on deck. Let it go, boys.

[Roy Acuff]

It's. It's.

[David Stone]

Thank you, boys. That puts us right back in the middle of the road. Here comes that hard riding neighbor of ours from way down in Alabama. All dressed up for Saturday night. Raring to go. Zeke Clemons, the Dixie Yodel will sing Rockin and Rolling in the Saddle. All right, Zeke, take it away.

[Zeke Clements]

Rocking and rolling in the saddle Singing the song all day Rocking and rolling in the saddle I guess I was born that way Working on the prairie with a song Working on the prairie all day long Roping Ty and Brandon with a tune just hoping to be done now pretty soon you'll find me Rocking and rolling in the saddle Singing the song all day Rockin and rolling in the saddle I guess I was born that way. Hi there. Ran there till the day is done and then we'll ride, ride, ride till the setting of the sun you'll find me Rocking and rolling in the saddle Singing the song all Day Rocking and rolling in the saddle I guess I was born that way the old lady Old the only lady Old lady the only lonely old lady the only lady.

[Roy Acuff]

Olly the lady.

[David Stone]

Well, Zeke, that's a mighty stern tune there, old timer. More power to you. That's what we call covering the ground. And right on top of that number comes a tune that has hit the sky of popularity. We present our old friend, Ford Rush, whose baritone voice has put out a lot of good cheer for many years. He's gonna sing There's a Gold Mine in the Sky. All right, Ford.

[Roy Acuff]

There's a gold mine in the sky Far we will find it, you and I Some sweet day There'll be clover just for you down the line.

[David Stone]

Where.

[Roy Acuff]

The skies are always blue Pal of mine take your time O mule I know you're growing lame but you'll pass to real the stars when we strike that claim and we'll sit up there and watch the world roll by when we find that long lost gold mine in the sky Far away, far away we will find that long lost gold mine Some sweet day and we'll say hello to friends who said goodbye when we find that long lost gold mine in the sky Far away, far away.

[David Stone]

Thanks, partner. You really put out a lot of gold. And we can still see it floating through the air. Come on in, David, and tell us some more good news about Prince Albert.

[George Hay]

Judge. It's the famous Prince Albert crimp cut and the no bite process that account for the delightful cool smoking that you get from this famous brand. That means real smoking comfort. No parching or bite from excess heat. Just mild, mellow smoking that lets all of the rich flavor of Prince Albert come through without a hint of harshness. Every pipe full of Prince Albert's choice ripe tobaccos give you this cool smoking joy. No wonder Prince Albert is the national joy smoke.

[David Stone]

Thank you, David. Friends for many moons, one of our most popular tunes has been Sparkling Blue Eyes. It seems that one of the latest tricks of the songwriting business is to strike off an answer to a popular number. So cousin Roy Acuff will now present an answer to Sparkling Blue Eyes. Roy, let's have it. And when you get through, we've got some more questions to ask to you. Let it go.

[Roy Acuff]

I can never see that girl of mine that once did live down in old Carolina the ramshackle shack is lonely today for the girl I love lies beneath the clay those two blue eyes are closed in death forever in her grace she rests till some glad day up there above I'll be at home with the one I love the whippoorwill's call from the lonesome pine that shades the grave of that girl of mine those sparkling eyes I always love Were closed in death by the one above those two blue eyes Are closing down forever in her grave Shield rear Till some glad day up there above I'll be at home with the one I.

[Zeke Clements]

Love.

[Roy Acuff]

Now it's harvest time down in old Caroline I can never return to that girl of mine I'll send a rose A token of love to be placed on the grave of the girl I love those two blue eyes Are closed in death forever in her grave she rests Till some glad day up there abode I'll be at home with the one I love.

[David Stone]

Mighty, mighty pretty, Roy. Mighty pretty. Look out folks. Move back on the sidewalk. Here come that old flop eared mule. Running wild with the crook brothers riding him. Go ahead, boys, let it go.

[Roy Acuff]

Sa.

[David Stone]

Nice going, boys. Nice going. We should come out to the farm and help me harness dynamite. He won't cooperate and he won't listen to reason. Uncle Dave, come on out here and get set for another little ditty. Bring Doris along because we'd like to hear that song about a romance. Back in the Cannon county hills you told us it was kissing on the sly. Shame on you, Uncle Dave. You too.

[Uncle Dave Macon]

Doris falls in love with his little turtle dove he will linger all around under her jaw he will kiss a farm mother, a sister or a brother Till her father comes and kicks him from the tomb Whirl the pistons from his pocket and bows he will cock it and blow away his giddy brain his duggit says he must and chairs and loaded and he doesn't so they're kissing one another each again While the old maids love it the widows are above it They've all got a finger in the pie Some girls think it haughty A tet is so very naughty but you can bet they're all a kissing on the slide When a girl is 17 she will think it rather mean if she don't get onto something for a smile she will make a fellow shrivel she will make him jump the river as she lingers on the big big mustang father Old mates love it so With a flora buv Got a finger in the pie Some girls think it hokey if they do some very naughty but you can bet they're all kissing on the spine if you want a kiss her neatly Kiss her sweetly and completely if you want to kiss her so stoop kiss her twil when you get a chance to kiss her make her dodge her too and miss Then slap it on and kiss her once or twice.

[David Stone]

Yes, sir. I believe you got something there. Aren't Dave something mighty nice. Yes, sir. Well, jump on your horse, Deacon. Come on in here. The old train's whistling good that swell. Well, tell us about the old freight train blue.

[Zeke Clements]

Well I was born in Dixie in the boomer shack Just a little shanty by the railroad track the humming of the drivers was my lullaby A freight train whistle taught me how to cry I got the freight train blues Loady loady loady I got em in the bottom of my ramblin sho and when that whistle blows I've got to go oh lordy I guess I'm never going to lose the freight train.

[Uncle Dave Macon]

Blue.

[Zeke Clements]

Now my daddy was a fireman and my mammy dear was the only daughter of an engineer My sweetie makes good money and it ain't no joke It's a shame the way I keep that good gal broke I got the freight train blues Lo de lo de lo de I got em in the bottom of my rambling sho and when that whistle blows I've got to go oh lordy I guess I'm never going to lose the freight train blue Now I know I'm old enough to stop this running around I've tried a hundred times to quit and settle down but every time I find a place I'd like to stay I hear a freight train whistle and I'm on my way I got the phrase train blues Loady lo di lodi I got em in the bottom of a ramb and when that whistle blows I've got to go all day I guess I'm never going to lose the freight train blue.

[David Stone]

Ah, Zeke, that swell. And that tune really makes a man want to ride the rod. While we're thinking of traveling, we're going to ship a beautiful number down to our many friends in the Lone Star State. And we're happy to have several Texas radio stations hooked up with us tonight. Ford Rush will sing Governor Leo Daniels famous number Beautiful Texas. Look out, Governor, we're coming at you. All right, Ford.

[Roy Acuff]

Heard of the countries far over the sea from whence came our ancestors to establish this land of the free? There are some folks who still like to travel to see what they have over them but when they go look it's not like the book and they find there is none to compare. In the song about beautiful Texas There is one thing we just have to say about 6 million people who are Proud that they're here to stay. It's great to be healthy and happy and that seems to be our good faith. So let us all smile for life is worthwhile when we live in this beautiful state. Our beautiful, beautiful Texas where the beautiful blue bonnets grow. We're proud of our forefathers who fought at the Alamo. You can live on the plains or the mountain or down where the sea breezes blow. And you're still in beautiful Texas. The most beautiful place that I know.

[David Stone]

Mighty nice Ford, Roy. Come on up here, will you, and give us a little of that old crawdad tune, will you, please?

[Roy Acuff]

You get a line and I'll get a pole, honey. Honey, you get a line and I'll get a pole, baby. You get a line and I get a pole. We'll go down to the crawdad hole, Honey, baby mine.

[David Stone]

Nice, Roy, nice. David, come on in here, will you, please, and take over.

[George Hay]

I know that every one of you pipe smokers who hasn't tried Prince Albert will want to try. Now that you have the facts on how much cooler it smokes, you just can't beat the PA type of cut known as crimp cut. And the no bite process for cool, mild, yet rich tasting tobacco. And that's the tip to you making smokers too. You'll find Prince Albert the mildest yet richest tasting tobacco you ever twirled up. And that means easier, faster, neater rolling too, thanks to the PA Crimp Cut. And remember, there are around 70.

[Roy Acuff]

Fine.

[George Hay]

Roll your own cigarettes in every handy PA tin. Yes, there's no other tobacco like Prince Albert. Men. Try 10.

[David Stone]

Thank you, David. Now gather round, boys. Let's all join hands and play that old breakdown, Soldier's joy. Let it go, Roy.

[Roy Acuff]

Swing more. Swing, Paul, swing. Swing the gal from Arkansas. Swing a high, swing a low and.

[David Stone]

Turn her loose and on we go.

[Zeke Clements]

Head to the barn.

[Roy Acuff]

Around his mouth, Grab your gallon.

[George Hay]

Head us south.

[Roy Acuff]

All around the old grapevine, you swing your knives.

[David Stone]

Well, friends and neighbors, we've shucked about all the corn on the place and we're heading for the barn. Don't forget, the Grand Ole Opry will be heard at at the same time, same station next Saturday night. We hope you'll be listening. This is George Hay, the solemn old judge speaking. Good night and good luck, everybody.

[George Hay]

And here's another thing to remember for your radio entertainment. Monday night, tune in Blondie, the adventures of that famous comic strip couple, Blondie and Dagwood Bumstead. Tuesday night, listen to Bob Crosby and the best Dixieland band in the land with Helen Ward and Johnny Mercer. And on Saturday night, there are two great radio programs for your entertainment. Benny Goodman and the Grand Ole Opry. Next week, Uncle Dave Macon and his company may be seen in person in North Carolina. Roy Acuff and his Smoky Mountain Boys will appear in northern Florida and Alabama and all during the week. For your smoking enjoyment. It's Prince Albert Smoking Tobacco. The National Joy Smoke.

[David Stone]

This is the National Broadcasting Company.