Search - Ernest Tubb :: Classics 1

Rerecorded versions that are still worth your attention

Joe Sixpack -- Slipcue.com | ...in Middle America | 01/12/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"A long overdue reissue of some (though sadly not all) of Tubb's late-period recordings made with producer Pete Drake between 1977-81. In the early '70s, Tubb was unceremoniously dumped by the recently-renamed MCA label, which -- back when it was still Decca -- Tubb had helped build up financially through his numerous hits of the 1940s and '50s. Left without a label to support him, Tubb's tireless touring schedule took on a more desperate, dogged air, and health problems and financial woes piled up as well. Thus, Pete Drake's decision to pull ET back into the studio was a double blessing, an affirming nod towards one of country music's legendary greats, and a chance to document for fans what Tubb sounded like in his final years. As with Webb Pierce, Hank Thompson and a few other honkytonk founding fathers, Tubb's later, post major label recordings are surprisingly vigorous... His voice was obviously a bit frayed with age, but then again ET was never exactly a Caruso or Pavarotti; these recordings show a veteran performer not merely going through the motions, but a guy who still put himself into every song, and still thought of his fans whenever the band struck up a tune. Recommended, and not just for the historic value."