Cliffie Stone was a pivotal figure in the development of the country scene in California in the post-war years as a singer, musician, A&R man, record producer, music publisher, radio and TV personality. Working as a radio and television producer, he was involved in the influential programmes Hollywood Barn Dance and Hometown Jamboree, and as a talent scout and producer at Capitol Records.

Stone began working for the label in 1946, and became an A&R man there. Among the talents he discovered were Tennessee Ernie Ford, Cathie Taylor, Molly Bee, Hank Thompson and Stan Freberg. He also worked regularly with Merle Travis after his relocation from Nashville to Hollywood. Stone was instrumental in helping various young musicians get their start in television, such as guitarist Bill Aken who would also write songs for Stone’s publishing firm.

Stone’s career at Capitol was successful and this 56-track collection comprises selected A & B sides from his releases during these years. It features all his career pop and country hits: Silver Stars, Purple Sage, Eyes Of Blue, Peepin’ Through The Keyhole (Watching Jole Blon), When My Blue Moon Turns To Gold Again and The Popcorn Song. He recorded six albums with a backing band which went under various names, including Cliffie Stone & His Orchestra, Cliffie Stone & His Barn Dance Band, Cliffie Stone & His Hometown Jamboree Gang, Cliffie Stone & His Hepcats, and Cliffie Stone’s Country Hombres.

A man with his finger on the pulse of everything that was going on in country music on the west coast, he was an influential mover and shaker, but this collection provides an entertaining showcase for his talents as a performer.

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