Episode Summary: "Red Foley and Rod Brasfield | Grand Ole Opry (04-05-49)"
Old Time Radio Westerns presents a vibrant episode featuring legendary entertainers Red Foley and Rod Brasfield, broadcasted live from the iconic Grand Ole Opry on April 5, 1949. Hosted by Andrew Rines, this episode immerses listeners in a blend of heartfelt musical performances and delightful comedic exchanges, capturing the essence of America’s beloved radio entertainment during its golden age.
Opening Remarks and Introductions
The episode kicks off with Red Foley enthusiastically declaring, “It’s Grand Ole Opry time” (03:49), setting a lively tone for the evening. Rod Brasfield follows with his characteristic humor, encouraging everyone to “have some fun at the grand old” (04:03), inviting listeners to settle in for an entertaining show.
Musical Performances
"Night Train to Memphis" by Ernest Tubb
At 04:25, Red Foley and Ernest Tubb perform the spirited song "Night Train to Memphis," showcasing Tubb’s signature honky-tonk style:
Ernest Tubb: "Night train to Memphis. Take that night train to Memphis..." (04:25)
The performance is a standout moment, with Foley expressing admiration for Tubb’s talent:
Red Foley: “And here he is, Rob Brassfield” (06:08).
"Biting My Fingernails, Thinking of You"
Rod Brasfield takes the stage around 09:10 to perform a melodic rendition of "Biting My Fingernails, Thinking of You," captivating the audience with his heartfelt delivery:
Rod Brassfield: "Biting my fingernails, thinking of you. You really got me worried now I must confess it's true..." (09:15)
Oak River Ridge Quartet’s Spiritual Medley
At 12:32, Ernest Tubb introduces the Oak River Ridge Quartet, who perform a stirring medley of spirituals:
Rod Brassfield: "I'm crying holy unto the Lord now it sure could if you all praise God." (12:46)
This spiritual interlude adds a profound and reflective dimension to the evening, highlighting the quartet's harmonious vocals.
"Walking the Floor Over You" by Ernest Tubb
Ernest Tubb returns to perform his classic hit "Walking the Floor Over You" at 24:59, delivering an emotional performance that resonates deeply with listeners:
Rod Brasfield: "You left me and you went away. You said that you'd be back in just a day..." (24:59)
Humorous Dialogues and Banter
Red Foley and Rod Brassfield’s Baseball Antics
Throughout the episode, Foley and Brasfield engage in humorous conversations, particularly focusing on Rod’s baseball experiences:
Red Foley: “I'm just a little puny. I got me a Charlie horse playing baseball last week and I'm so mad I could eat an umpire burger” (06:08).
Rod Brassfield: "Well, uncle Cypher says, 'if it makes your legs smart, let's rub a little of it on your head.'” (06:25)
Their playful exchange brings levity and showcases their strong comedic chemistry.
Minnie Pearl’s Comedic Segment
Minnie Pearl joins the conversation around 20:38, delivering her trademark humor with anecdotes about her interactions and photography misadventures:
Minnie Pearl: "He said, Minnie Pearl, how old are you? And I said, why, Hezzy, I'm looking forward to 30." (21:21)
Her stories about Uncle Nabob and the amusing descriptions of family photos elicit laughter and endearment from the audience.
Interactive Audience Engagement
Ernest Tubb engages with listeners from various states, fostering a sense of community and nationwide connection:
Ernest Tubb: “We talked to some folks that came all the way from way out in Oregon. Welcome, you folks to the opera... Virginia. Oklahoma, Arkansas... Mississippi, Georgia.” (17:57)
This segment emphasizes the widespread popularity and reach of the Grand Ole Opry.
Tribute to Miss Jenny L. Carson
Near the end of the episode, Tubb pays homage to songwriters with a special feature on Miss Jenny L. Carson’s "Don't Rob Another Man's Castle":
Ernest Tubb: "Don't rob another man's castle. They say a man's home is his castle... So don't think of taking his loved ones." (26:08)
This tribute underscores the importance of respecting others’ personal sanctuaries and relationships.
Closing Remarks
The episode concludes with Red Foley providing original broadcast information and acknowledging the producers:
Red Foley: “Hickory Singers with Wally Fowler and the Oak River Ridge Quartet was originally released by NBC...” (28:29)
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Red Foley (03:49): “It’s Grand Ole Opry time.”
- Rod Brassfield (04:03): “Everyone will have some fun at the grand old.”
- Ernest Tubb (04:25): “Night train to Memphis...”
- Rod Brassfield (09:15): “Biting my fingernails, thinking of you...”
- Minnie Pearl (21:21): “He said, Minnie Pearl, how old are you?...”
- Ernest Tubb (26:08): “Don't rob another man's castle...”
Conclusion
This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns masterfully blends musical excellence with comedic brilliance, featuring iconic performances and heartfelt interactions. Red Foley, Rod Brasfield, Ernest Tubb, and Minnie Pearl deliver an unforgettable show that captures the spirit of the Grand Ole Opry, offering listeners a nostalgic journey into a bygone era of radio entertainment.
For those who haven’t experienced this classic broadcast, the episode serves as a captivating introduction to the talents and camaraderie that defined the Golden Age of Radio.