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Ever wonder why country music is all about drinking songs, and cheating songs? We could place that blame squarely on the head of old Hank. That is what he did, so that is what he sang about. Among the many things that has sprung from the unforgettable Hank Williams, are a standard mold for a country music star, classic country songs, and a second generation singer who broke all of the rules. Hank Williams is considered the epitome of Country Music. As he should be, fifty three years after he left this world, he is still considered the most influential singer of all time.

Hank was born in 1923, in Alabama. Since the day that he was born he had health problems. His bad luck with health in his early years was prophetic of those in his later years. He had a back problem that caused him enough pain to turn to alcohol, and morphine. These problems, surfaced at the height of his career, causing him ultimately an early death.

But what he left behind him was the stuff that legends are made out of. His music thrust the country genre into the spotlight in the late 1940's, and made him a bona fide star. Not only do we know his music, we really love it. He is the apex of Country music stardom, and his hits are so memorable, that other songs have popped out from them.

Alan Jackson immortalized him with 'Midnight in Montgomery', and Hank's own little boy, Hank Jr, is reminiscent of his daddy in many ways. Hank Jr, brought whole new generations to Hank's music when he entered the scene with a bang.

Whether you love the slow, nearly painful pining from 'I'm so lonesome I could cry', or the upbeat, fun loving 'Hey Good looking', there is something that this man can offer you. His music is twangy, fun, and full of heart. Though he was only recognized as a star for a few short years of his life, it seems that he sacrificed himself for the greater good. One could argue that Hank Williams started Country music. I would say that Hank started a love for it instead.

Want to hear all that you can out of old Hank? There is a ten CD boxed set containing just over two hundred songs that would be a great place to start (not to mention a great gift for a fan). Or, ease into old Hank by listening to his son Bocephus. Though Hank left this world too soon, he didn't really leave it at all. He is still the King of the Country music, at least in our hearts.

Learn more about this author, Shawna Blake.
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