Hollywood Five-O :: 30 Years Ago

Tom T. Hall was like the Johnny Carson of the Dixie folk circuit. He had that smoky smooth voice. He had an approachable persona. He was a study in classy, humorous, wholesome, populist values. By July 1972, Olive Hill, Tennessee’s favorite balladeer was already commemorating his greatest hits. Tom’s profile through the decade would remain high with the cult success of tracks like “Sneaky Snake” & Tom’s masterpiece, “I Like Beer.” Anytime you’re ever tempted to join in a sing-along with the unbearable “99 Bottles Of Beer” ditty, try breaking out a barrel of Tom T. Hall instead.

“Whiskey’s too rough
Champagne costs too much
Vodka puts my mouth in gear
This little refrain should help me explain
Why as a matter of fact I like beer.”