Podcast Summary: Old Time Radio Westerns – "Red Foley Hank Williams | Grand Ole Opry (1949)"

Introduction

In this special episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rines transports listeners back to 1949 Berlin with a rare broadcast from the Grand Ole Opry starring legendary country artists Red Foley and Hank Williams. This digitally restored episode offers a vivid glimpse into the post-war era, showcasing performances, humor, and camaraderie among some of country music’s most iconic figures.

Setting the Stage: Grand Ole Opry in Berlin

The episode opens with Grant Turner setting the scene for the evening's performance:
“It's Grand Ole Opry time again tonight from Germany and this time it's Berlin.” (01:43)

This unique rendition of the Grand Ole Opry features Red Foley, Hank Williams, Minnie Pearl, Rob Bradfield, Jimmy Dickens, Roy Acuff, Helen Harris, Rod Brasfield, and the Smoky Mountain Boys, all performing for American troops stationed in Germany.

Musical Performances

1. "Promise Land" by Red Foley and Hank Williams

   • Red Foley and Hank Williams collaboratively perform "Promise Land," showcasing their harmonious vocals and storytelling prowess.
     Red Foley: “I said Jones was a mighty man but now he's the rest of the...” (02:11)

2. "Move It On Over" by Hank Williams

   • Hank Williams delivers an energetic rendition of "Move It On Over," accompanied by Jimmy Dickens and Roy Acuff, highlighting his distinctive vocal style and engaging the live audience.
     Hank Williams: “Move it on over. Move it on over.” (04:31)

3. "Yodeloo" by Helen Harris

   • Helen Harris captivates listeners with her yodeling performance, teaching the audience the basics of yodeling.
     Helen Harris: “You hear a yodel if you listen close to me.” (12:53)

4. "Every Step of the Way" by Roy Acuff

   • Roy Acuff introduces a heartfelt ballad, "Every Step of the Way," emphasizing themes of love and companionship.
     Roy Acuff: “Every step of the way, my darling, we’ll walk alongside by side.” (27:00)

5. "I'm Throwing Rice at the Girl I Love" by Hank Williams

   • Hank Williams delivers an emotional performance of "I'm Throwing Rice at the Girl I Love," reflecting his signature blend of sorrow and melody.
     Hank Williams: “I’m throwing rice at the girl that I love after she just said I do.” (40:47)

Comedy and Skits

1. Jimmy Dickens' Hilarious Anecdotes

   • Jimmy Dickens shares amusing stories about his hometown and family, providing comic relief and showcasing his affable personality.
     Jimmy Dickens: “I wish Uncle Cyp and Ain't SAP wouldn't fight so much like that.” (09:30)

2. Minnie Pearl's Witty Banter

   • Minnie Pearl engages in playful dialogue with fellow performers, recounting humorous experiences in Germany and poking fun at her brother’s antics.
     Minnie Pearl: “Beauty’s only skin deep. I said, well, let’s skin her.” (37:49)

3. Rod Brasfield's Country Humor

   • Rod Brasfield delivers a monologue filled with country humor, reminiscing about his upbringing and the trials of a simple country boy.
     Rod Brasfield: “I remember my mama always said to me, Jim, take a tater and wait.” (31:14)

Sponsor Integration: Prince Albert Smoking Tobacco

Throughout the episode, the characters promote Prince Albert Smoking Tobacco, seamlessly blending sponsorship with the show's narrative: Red Foley: “Prince Albert is so rich and full flavored. And because Prince Albert's choice tobacco is specially treated to ensure against tongue bite and crimp.” (07:01)

These integrated advertisements reflect the era's common practice of sponsors being part of the entertainment.

Audience Interaction and Group Performances

The show includes moments where performers interact directly with the audience, encouraging participation in sing-alongs and dances: Red Foley: “Let’s put that best barbershop foot forward and sing a little song.” (33:14)

Participants join in classic group songs and dances, fostering a sense of community and shared enjoyment among the listeners and soldiers present.

Closing Remarks

As the show wraps up, Red Foley teases future performances and extends gratitude to the audience: Red Foley: “At that time we'll have more Grand Ole Opry Globetrotters, as we call them, Jimmy Dickens and Hank Williams and Jimmy Riddle and several others.” (42:51)

He bids farewell with heartfelt thanks to all performers and listeners, encapsulating the warmth and camaraderie that defined the Grand Ole Opry's mission to entertain troops abroad.

Conclusion

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns offers a rich tapestry of music, humor, and heartfelt performances that celebrate the enduring legacy of the Grand Ole Opry. By digitally restoring these classic broadcasts, the podcast preserves and enhances these timeless stories, allowing modern audiences to experience the golden age of radio as it once was—a beacon of joy and solace for many, especially those far from home.

Notable Quotes:

• “Move it on over. Move it on over.” – Hank Williams (04:31)
• “Beauty’s only skin deep. I said, well, let’s skin her.” – Minnie Pearl (37:49)
• “I wish Uncle Cyp and Ain't SAP wouldn't fight so much like that.” – Jimmy Dickens (09:30)
• “Prince Albert is so rich and full flavored.” – Red Foley (07:01)

Timestamp Highlights:

• Introduction and Show Setup: 00:13 – 01:43
• "Move It On Over" Performance: 04:31 – 06:25
• Jimmy Dickens' Comedy: 09:07 – 12:25
• Helen Harris' Yodeling: 12:25 – 14:20
• Rod Brasfield's Monologue: 14:20 – 32:42
• Hank Williams' Performances: 34:00 – 41:07
• Minnie Pearl's Stories: 37:22 – 40:28
• Closing Remarks: 42:51 – 43:29

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the 1949 Grand Ole Opry broadcast, highlighting the blend of music, humor, and heartfelt interactions that made these radio shows a staple of American entertainment.