Johnny Horton: The Legend of Country Music
Table of Contents
Singer’s bio
Born in 1925 in Los Angeles, Johnny Horton was an American country music singer and songwriter. He grew up in Texas and Louisiana and served in the United States Army during World War II. After he was discharged, he returned to Louisiana and pursued his music career. He released his first single, “I’m a One-Woman Man,” in 1956 and his first album, “The Singing Fisherman,” in 1959.
Age and family
Johnny Horton passed away on November 5, 1960, in Texas, at the age of 35. He married twice in his life. His first marriage was with Donna Cook and they had two daughters, Yanina and Melody. He got a divorce from Donna in 1953 and later married Billie Jean Jones, who was a widow of the famous singer Hank Williams. They had one daughter, Siran.
Career
Johnny Horton is known for his unique singing style and his blend of country, rockabilly and honky-tonk music. He signed with Columbia Records in 1956, but his first hit single came in 1959 with “The Battle of New Orleans.” The song sold over one million copies and stayed at the top of the charts for ten weeks. Horton continued to have hits including “North to Alaska,” “Sink the Bismarck,” and “Johnny Reb.”
He was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970, and the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame in 2008. He is also a member of the Rockabilly Hall of Fame.
Top songs
– The Battle of New Orleans
– North to Alaska
– Sink the Bismarck
– Johnny Reb
– When It’s Springtime in Alaska (It’s Forty Below)
– Honky-Tonk Man
– Johnny Freedom
– The Mansion You Stole
– All for the Love of a Girl
– Whispering Pines
Net worth
Johnny Horton’s net worth at the time of his death was estimated to be around $250,000. However, his legacy continues to thrive as his music continues to be played on the radio and streamed by fans around the world.
Trivia and quotes
– Johnny Horton was known for his patriotism and his love for American history. He often sang songs about wars and battles.
– In an interview with Time Magazine, Horton once said, “I write about the things that people are interested in – love, home, God, country and Mama.”
– Johnny Horton’s songs have been covered by many notable artists including Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, and George Jones.
– In his short career, Johnny Horton had 14 top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
– His song “North to Alaska” was featured in the 1960 film of the same name, starring John Wayne.
– According to fellow songwriter Bobby Bare, “Johnny Horton was the best thing that ever happened to country music.”
– Horton was a victim of a car crash and died instantly leaving his wife and three children.
Conclusion
Johnny Horton left a significant impact on the country music industry, paving the way for future generations of artists. His unique style and his love for American history and patriotism continue to inspire people today. Horton’s body of work still resonates with audiences, his songs still being enjoyed around the world. Regardless of his premature passing, Johnny Horton’s music continues to be celebrated by fans worldwide and will always remain in their hearts as a true legend of country music.
