Podcast Summary

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: WSM-Smoky Mountain Serenade 10-23-47
Original Air Date: October 23, 1947 (rebroadcast/archived September 20, 2025)
Host: Harold’s Old Time Radio

Overview

This episode of “Smoky Mountain Serenade,” broadcast from WSM in Nashville, Tennessee, is a lively and heartfelt tribute to the origins, traditions, and evolution of American mountain folk music. With performances and stories from authentic voices of the Grand Ole Opry, listeners are taken on a musical journey from the British Isles to the heart of Appalachia and the modern American stage. The show features performances and commentary from legends such as Bradley Kincaid, Roy Acuff, Eddie Arnold, and Uncle Dave Macon, blending historical insights with captivating live music.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Introduction: Setting the Scene in Nashville

[00:37–01:01] George D. Hay (“The Solemn Old Judge”) welcomes listeners from WSM radio, introducing the Smoky Mountain Serenade as a show dedicated to the story and preservation of mountain folk music.
[01:01–02:06] Judd Collins describes Nashville as the epicenter of American mountain folk music, comparing the Grand Ole Opry to a major country fair and highlighting its importance for the community.

Quote [01:01] – Judd Collins:
"Every Saturday night, thousands of persons from every part of our nation gather to witness the Grand Ole Opry, a veritable carnival of folk dancing and singing staged by the people of the southern mountains."

The Roots of American Folk Music

[02:06–03:57] Bradley Kincaid recounts the origins of Appalachian folk music, tracing its lineage from the Scotch, Irish, and English immigrants. He outlines three settler groups, emphasizing the independent spirit and musical traditions of the poor but proud third group.

Quote [02:34] – Bradley Kincaid:
"The program that we are about to present will give you a picture of our great heritage, the folkways, the more ways, the habits and customs that have been handed down to us from these early settlers."

Kincaid asserts the importance of isolation in preserving the authenticity and purity of folk songs.

Quote [04:17] – Bradley Kincaid:
“I say it is fortunate for us that they were isolated, for it is extremely questionable whether they would have kept alive their folk songs and folklore if they had been too much exposed to outside influences.”

He lists famous ballads preserved in the American songbook: “Barbara Allen,” “The Two Sisters,” “Fairy Ellender,” “Lord Lovell,” and classic fiddle tunes like “The Irish Washerwoman.”

Performances: Ballads and Tunes

[05:47–08:06] Bradley Kincaid performs “The Foggy, Foggy Dew,” a Scottish ballad, with gentle humor about being “Scotch but born in this country.”

Quote [05:47] – Bradley Kincaid:
"Of course, I'm Scotch, but I was born in this country to save transportation, I'll sing the Foggy, Foggy Dew.”

[08:06–10:26] Kincaid follows with “Barney McCoy,” a cherished Irish song, maintaining the theme of cultural inheritance.

Uptempo Interlude: Fiddle Tunes & Squares

[11:26–12:36] A contrast is drawn between somber ballads and “gay fiddle tunes,” with a lively performance of “Durang’s Hornpipe.”
Jud Collins notes that these tunes were central to social and festive gatherings in the mountains.

Evolution and Modernization of Folk Music

[13:15–14:22] Discussion shifts to the evolution of hill country music—how Opry stages blend ancient ballads, fiddle tunes, modern “hillbilly ballads,” and more.
The term “hillbilly” is addressed, with an insistence on the dignity of country people.

Quote [13:59] – Jud Collins:
"Incidentally, we never use the word hillbilly when referring to the mountain people because the term was coined in derision…Country people have a definite dignity which enables them to hold their own in any company."

The Grand Ole Opry: Origins and Impact

[14:22–16:25] George D. Hay recounts founding the Opry in 1925, starting with Uncle Jimmy Thompson, who could fiddle for hours. Early radio customs and the story of his nickname, “The Solemn Old Judge,” are shared.

Quote [15:09] – George D. Hay:
"Uncle Jimmy was a very fine fiddler, and he played a solid hour. That was our first performance of the Grand Ole Opry…He was ready to go all night."

[16:30–17:12] Hay describes how the Opry got its name—created in playful contrast to a formal classical program that preceded it.

The Opry Stars & Their Music

Roy Acuff [17:12–19:48]

Roy Acuff, the best-known Opry star, discusses his specialty in mountain love ballads and sacred songs. He credits “The Great Speckled Bird” as his career breakthrough and performs it for listeners.

Quote [17:47] – Roy Acuff:
“I believe that the number that has meant more to me than anything was the number that I brought to the Grand Ole Opry some 10 years ago, The Great Speckled Bird.”

Eddie Arnold [19:48–25:28]

Eddie Arnold, from Tennessee’s lowlands, talks about not having formal music training but writing nearly 100 songs. He performs his biggest hit, “That’s How Much I Love You,” a modern ballad, then “The Cattle Call,” a classic cowboy tune that represents the westward journey of American folk music.

Quote [20:21] – Eddie Arnold:
“Well, Louie, I guess we'd have to say that's How Much I Love you.”

Uncle Dave Macon [25:28–27:41]

Uncle Dave Macon, beloved as the “Dixie Dewdrop,” reflects on his 63 years of banjo playing and delivers his humorous signature tune, “Chewing Gum.”

Quote [26:05] – Uncle Dave Macon:
“Song I compose. And watching my sweetheart chew eggs Chewing…Gum Chewing gum A good old United States custom. Well, make the banjo chew with you and let's hear it.”

The Influence of African-American Music

[27:41–29:33] Jud Collins credits the roots of ragtime, a forerunner of jazz, to African-American traditions on Southern plantations. The band performs “12th Street Rag” as a nod to this foundational rhythm.

Closing: Communal Tradition and Farewell

[29:33–31:19] The show ends with all joining in “Old Joe Clark,” a classic square dance tune.
The Solemn Old Judge delivers a whimsical, affectionate farewell:

Quote [30:57] – George D. Hay:
“It’s time for the tall pines to pine and the pawpaws to paws and the bumblebees to bumble. All around the grasshopper hops and the eavesdropper drops While gently the old cow slips away. This is the solemn old judge saying, so long and lots of good luck, everybody."

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On the Opry’s Origins and Spirit:
“Uncle Jimmy was a very fine fiddler, and he played a solid hour…He was ready to go all night.” – George D. Hay [15:09]
On cultural dignity:
“Country people have a definite dignity which enables them to hold their own in any company.” – Jud Collins [13:59]
On cultural preservation:
“I say it is fortunate for us that they were isolated, for it is extremely questionable whether they would have kept alive their folk songs and folklore if they had been too much exposed to outside influences.” – Bradley Kincaid [04:17]
On the enduring power of music:
“We're bringing you this program from Nashville Tennessee…the habits and customs that have been handed down to us from these early settlers.” – Bradley Kincaid [02:34]

Timestamps for Important Segments

[00:37] Show proper introduction by George D. Hay
[01:01] Nashville as the heart of American mountain folk music (Judd Collins)
[02:06] Bradley Kincaid introduces Appalachian roots
[05:47] “Foggy, Foggy Dew” performed by Bradley Kincaid
[08:06] “Barney McCoy” performed by Bradley Kincaid
[12:36] “Durang's Hornpipe” fiddle tune
[14:22] Opry origin story with George D. Hay
[17:12] Roy Acuff segment and “The Great Speckled Bird”
[20:21] Eddie Arnold on “That’s How Much I Love You”
[23:16] “The Cattle Call” by Eddie Arnold
[26:05] Uncle Dave Macon performs “Chewing Gum”
[27:41] “12th Street Rag” – ragtime origins
[29:33] Group finale: “Old Joe Clark”
[30:57] Whimsical farewell by The Solemn Old Judge

Tone and Style

The language is warm, folksy, and inviting, with a tone of pride, nostalgia, and gentle humor. There is a strong sense of community, heritage, and respect for musical traditions. Each performer shares personal anecdotes, creating an atmosphere of authenticity and camaraderie.

For listeners and readers alike, this episode captures the spirit, stories, and songs that define American mountain folk music, preserving a living tradition and celebrating the colorful personalities who shaped its journey from the hills of Appalachia to the soundstages of Nashville.

Podcast Summary

Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Introduction: Setting the Scene in Nashville

[00:37–01:01] George D. Hay (“The Solemn Old Judge”) welcomes listeners from WSM radio, introducing the Smoky Mountain Serenade as a show dedicated to the story and preservation of mountain folk music.
[01:01–02:06] Judd Collins describes Nashville as the epicenter of American mountain folk music, comparing the Grand Ole Opry to a major country fair and highlighting its importance for the community.

Quote [01:01] – Judd Collins:
"Every Saturday night, thousands of persons from every part of our nation gather to witness the Grand Ole Opry, a veritable carnival of folk dancing and singing staged by the people of the southern mountains."

The Roots of American Folk Music

[02:06–03:57] Bradley Kincaid recounts the origins of Appalachian folk music, tracing its lineage from the Scotch, Irish, and English immigrants. He outlines three settler groups, emphasizing the independent spirit and musical traditions of the poor but proud third group.

Quote [02:34] – Bradley Kincaid:
"The program that we are about to present will give you a picture of our great heritage, the folkways, the more ways, the habits and customs that have been handed down to us from these early settlers."

Kincaid asserts the importance of isolation in preserving the authenticity and purity of folk songs.

Quote [04:17] – Bradley Kincaid:
“I say it is fortunate for us that they were isolated, for it is extremely questionable whether they would have kept alive their folk songs and folklore if they had been too much exposed to outside influences.”

He lists famous ballads preserved in the American songbook: “Barbara Allen,” “The Two Sisters,” “Fairy Ellender,” “Lord Lovell,” and classic fiddle tunes like “The Irish Washerwoman.”

Performances: Ballads and Tunes

[05:47–08:06] Bradley Kincaid performs “The Foggy, Foggy Dew,” a Scottish ballad, with gentle humor about being “Scotch but born in this country.”

Quote [05:47] – Bradley Kincaid:
"Of course, I'm Scotch, but I was born in this country to save transportation, I'll sing the Foggy, Foggy Dew.”

[08:06–10:26] Kincaid follows with “Barney McCoy,” a cherished Irish song, maintaining the theme of cultural inheritance.

Uptempo Interlude: Fiddle Tunes & Squares

[11:26–12:36] A contrast is drawn between somber ballads and “gay fiddle tunes,” with a lively performance of “Durang’s Hornpipe.”
Jud Collins notes that these tunes were central to social and festive gatherings in the mountains.

Evolution and Modernization of Folk Music

[13:15–14:22] Discussion shifts to the evolution of hill country music—how Opry stages blend ancient ballads, fiddle tunes, modern “hillbilly ballads,” and more.
The term “hillbilly” is addressed, with an insistence on the dignity of country people.

Quote [13:59] – Jud Collins:
"Incidentally, we never use the word hillbilly when referring to the mountain people because the term was coined in derision…Country people have a definite dignity which enables them to hold their own in any company."

The Grand Ole Opry: Origins and Impact

[14:22–16:25] George D. Hay recounts founding the Opry in 1925, starting with Uncle Jimmy Thompson, who could fiddle for hours. Early radio customs and the story of his nickname, “The Solemn Old Judge,” are shared.

Quote [15:09] – George D. Hay:
"Uncle Jimmy was a very fine fiddler, and he played a solid hour. That was our first performance of the Grand Ole Opry…He was ready to go all night."

[16:30–17:12] Hay describes how the Opry got its name—created in playful contrast to a formal classical program that preceded it.

The Opry Stars & Their Music

Roy Acuff [17:12–19:48]

Roy Acuff, the best-known Opry star, discusses his specialty in mountain love ballads and sacred songs. He credits “The Great Speckled Bird” as his career breakthrough and performs it for listeners.

Quote [17:47] – Roy Acuff:
“I believe that the number that has meant more to me than anything was the number that I brought to the Grand Ole Opry some 10 years ago, The Great Speckled Bird.”

Eddie Arnold [19:48–25:28]

Eddie Arnold, from Tennessee’s lowlands, talks about not having formal music training but writing nearly 100 songs. He performs his biggest hit, “That’s How Much I Love You,” a modern ballad, then “The Cattle Call,” a classic cowboy tune that represents the westward journey of American folk music.

Quote [20:21] – Eddie Arnold:
“Well, Louie, I guess we'd have to say that's How Much I Love you.”

Uncle Dave Macon [25:28–27:41]

Uncle Dave Macon, beloved as the “Dixie Dewdrop,” reflects on his 63 years of banjo playing and delivers his humorous signature tune, “Chewing Gum.”

Quote [26:05] – Uncle Dave Macon:
“Song I compose. And watching my sweetheart chew eggs Chewing…Gum Chewing gum A good old United States custom. Well, make the banjo chew with you and let's hear it.”

The Influence of African-American Music

[27:41–29:33] Jud Collins credits the roots of ragtime, a forerunner of jazz, to African-American traditions on Southern plantations. The band performs “12th Street Rag” as a nod to this foundational rhythm.

Closing: Communal Tradition and Farewell

[29:33–31:19] The show ends with all joining in “Old Joe Clark,” a classic square dance tune.
The Solemn Old Judge delivers a whimsical, affectionate farewell:

Quote [30:57] – George D. Hay:
“It’s time for the tall pines to pine and the pawpaws to paws and the bumblebees to bumble. All around the grasshopper hops and the eavesdropper drops While gently the old cow slips away. This is the solemn old judge saying, so long and lots of good luck, everybody."

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On the Opry’s Origins and Spirit:
“Uncle Jimmy was a very fine fiddler, and he played a solid hour…He was ready to go all night.” – George D. Hay [15:09]
On cultural dignity:
“Country people have a definite dignity which enables them to hold their own in any company.” – Jud Collins [13:59]
On cultural preservation:
“I say it is fortunate for us that they were isolated, for it is extremely questionable whether they would have kept alive their folk songs and folklore if they had been too much exposed to outside influences.” – Bradley Kincaid [04:17]
On the enduring power of music:
“We're bringing you this program from Nashville Tennessee…the habits and customs that have been handed down to us from these early settlers.” – Bradley Kincaid [02:34]

Timestamps for Important Segments

[00:37] Show proper introduction by George D. Hay
[01:01] Nashville as the heart of American mountain folk music (Judd Collins)
[02:06] Bradley Kincaid introduces Appalachian roots
[05:47] “Foggy, Foggy Dew” performed by Bradley Kincaid
[08:06] “Barney McCoy” performed by Bradley Kincaid
[12:36] “Durang's Hornpipe” fiddle tune
[14:22] Opry origin story with George D. Hay
[17:12] Roy Acuff segment and “The Great Speckled Bird”
[20:21] Eddie Arnold on “That’s How Much I Love You”
[23:16] “The Cattle Call” by Eddie Arnold
[26:05] Uncle Dave Macon performs “Chewing Gum”
[27:41] “12th Street Rag” – ragtime origins
[29:33] Group finale: “Old Joe Clark”
[30:57] Whimsical farewell by The Solemn Old Judge

WSM-Smoky Mountain Serenade 10-23-47

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Summary

Podcast Summary

Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Introduction: Setting the Scene in Nashville

The Roots of American Folk Music

Performances: Ballads and Tunes

Uptempo Interlude: Fiddle Tunes & Squares

Evolution and Modernization of Folk Music

The Grand Ole Opry: Origins and Impact

The Opry Stars & Their Music

Roy Acuff [17:12–19:48]

Eddie Arnold [19:48–25:28]

Uncle Dave Macon [25:28–27:41]

The Influence of African-American Music

Closing: Communal Tradition and Farewell

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Important Segments

Tone and Style

Summary

Podcast Summary

Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Introduction: Setting the Scene in Nashville

The Roots of American Folk Music

Performances: Ballads and Tunes

Uptempo Interlude: Fiddle Tunes & Squares

Evolution and Modernization of Folk Music

The Grand Ole Opry: Origins and Impact

The Opry Stars & Their Music

Roy Acuff [17:12–19:48]

Eddie Arnold [19:48–25:28]

Uncle Dave Macon [25:28–27:41]

The Influence of African-American Music

Closing: Communal Tradition and Farewell

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Important Segments

Tone and Style