Hank Williams was, quite simply, one of the most important artists, as a singer, songwriter and performer, not just in country music but in the entire landscape of American popular music during the post-war decades. Despite the fact that his recording career was restricted to no more than five years, the impact and influence of his music has resonated through country, pop and rock since has tragically early death in 1953 at the age of 29. During that brief career, and also posthumously, he had 35 country chart hits, including no less than eleven No. 1s, including landmark songs like Lovesick Blues, Hey Good Lookin, Jambalaya, the disturbingly prophetic Ill Never Get Out Of This World Alive and Your Cheating Heart.

He was very much a pioneer of the honky-tonk style which was a key strand of country music during the 40s and beyond, and which he lived out in his tempestuous life, and his songs have been recorded by hosts of artists across the genres down the years. This great value 103-track 4 CD set comprises the A and B sides of all his releases, from his debut on the Sterling label in 1947, and through his years with the MGM label and the posthumous releases up to 1955. It also includes the releases he made under the name of Luke The Drifter. Its a comprehensive overview of his work, and a worthy showcase for a unique talent.

REVIEWS

The greatest country singer, ever. What more do you want?  -  (fRoots)

The Hillybilly Shakespeare, whose influence has continued to permeate not just in country, but the whole landscape of popular music.  These are essential recordings.  - Kevin Bourke (R2)

This excellent 4 disc set sat informative liner notes and all the Hank you'll need.  - Ed Mitchell (Country Music)