In September 1955, George Jones released “Why Baby Why,” his first country chart hit. The song eventually reached No. 4, but another version climbed even higher just months later.
Jones co-wrote the song with Darrell Edwards, one of his frequent songwriting partners. It became an early example of Jones’ talent as both a singer and songwriter.
Before “Why Baby Why,” Jones had released five singles on the Starday label, all recorded in home studios. This time, he recorded at Gold Star Studios in Houston with professional session musicians, including Glenn Barber on lead guitar, Herb Remington on pedal steel guitar and Tony Sepolio on fiddle.
The upbeat honky-tonk tune soon gained traction in Texas after Houston country station KIKK began playing it regularly. The station’s local charts were distributed to radio stations around the country, helping the song gain national airplay despite Starday’s limited distribution.
As “Why Baby Why” gained momentum, established country stars Red Sovine and Webb Pierce recorded their own version. Released by Decca Records in December 1955, the duet had the advantage of the label’s national distribution.
Their version eventually reached No. 1 on the country chart in early 1956, while Jones’ recording peaked at No. 4.
“Why Baby Why” went on to have a long life beyond its initial chart run. Hank Locklin reached No. 9 with his version in 1956, while Charley Pride took the song back to No. 1 in 1983 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.
Other artists who recorded the song include Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and Roger McGuinn. Jones later revisited the song with Gene Pitney in 1966 and Ricky Skaggs in 1994.
The country star would continue writing hits throughout his career, including the 1961 No. 1 “Tender Years.” He also co-wrote “Tall, Tall Trees” with Roger Miller, which Alan Jackson later took to No. 1 in 1995.
Related: 1964 Folk Song, Written by Bob Dylan, Launched a 19-Year-Old Singer’s Solo Career
Hence then, the article about 1955 country song written by george jones was a no 1 hit for another artist was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( 1955 Country Song, Written by George Jones, Was a No. 1 Hit for Another Artist )
Also on site :