Customer Reviews

Honky Tonk Man: The Essential Johnny Horton 1956-1960

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For those country music fans who are only familiar with Johnny Horton's historical saga songs, this two CD compilation truly demonstrates that he was an original and diverse artist. Horton really shines on the "honky tonk" tunes: "Honky Tonk Man" (most recently covered by Dwight Yoakam), "I'm a One Woman Man" (most recently covered by George Jones), "Goodbye Lonesome (Hello, Baby Doll)," "Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor," "Cherokee Boogie" (most recently covered by BR5-49 and Marty Brown), and "The Golden Rocket" (nice version that would please Hank Snow). Some interesting tunes worth checking out: "Hot in the Sugarcane Field," "Lost Highway" (good version of Hank Williams, Sr. classic), "Evil Hearted Me," and "I'll Do It Every Time" (almost Everly Brothers in feel). There is some filler on these CDs, but it's mostly listenable and enjoyable in its own way. There are two notable omissions on this compilation that would render his "Greatest Hits" package unnecessary for purchase (unless your really want some of the historical saga songs)--"Whispering Pines" and "All for the Love of a Girl." These are two of the best ballads (and songs!) that Horton ever recorded. Why are they missing here? Otherwise, this is a terrific collection.

Although this CD left out some of my favorites, like "Jim Bridger," "Johnny Freedom," and "The Battle of Bull Run," it is a must have for any fan of Johnny Horton, or classic country in general. It provides many songs that aren't included on most of his other cd's, a bonus feature in this 2 CD set. It is definately a must have for any collection!

Here is a fine collection of Johhny Horton songs; not only the more famous Historic numbers, but the equally good (or better, in my opinion) Honky Tonk numbers. I wish someone would release his entire catalog of early stuff; especially his signature, hard-driving, honky tonkin'! I do have one real criticism of this collection, and I am really perturbed that "Whispering Pines" and "All For the Love of A Girl" were not included here....it is criminal. If you are not familiar with Johnny's "drinkin" music, you owe it to yourself to hear the likes of "I'm Comin' Home" and "Honky Tonk Hardwood Floor"; both are included here, as well as many more. Forget Toby Keith, Faith & Tim Hill, or Kenny G Chesney.....here is a collection of fine country music that is worth every penny of the price.

This is a great cd. I have enjoyed music by Johnny Horton for over 15 years. It is a geat collection of music but two songs are missing. I love Whispering Pines and Comanche is the other song I would have liked to seen in this collection. Other than that, it is great music.

This CD set is a must for any Johnny Horton fan who's familiar with his most popular hits but wishes to familiarize themself with some of his lesser known songs, that are just as wonderful and entertaining. In this set you'll hear great examples of Rockabilly in such songs as "Honky-Tonk Harwood Floor", and cute novelty type songs such as "Cherokee Boogie" and "The Electrified Donkey". And what Horton compilation would be complete without "The Battle of New Orleans" or "North To Alaska"? The set includes those hits and more, PLUS an 11 page biography of this fascinating entertainer whose music is timeless. I highly recommend adding The Essential Johnny Horton to your CD collection.

I was thrilled to get the cds. I have been trying to get the words to "The Electrified Donkey" since Johnny Horton sang it on a trip to Anchorage in 1959 or 1960(about the same time Little Jimmy Dickens was here the first time). The album is GREAT! and fun,but it says in the brochure that he was here in Alaska in 1949. It was at least ten years later that he was here. Also, unless he lied to us, HE wrote "North To Alaska" on the plane on the way up here. And "When It's Springtime in Alaska (it's 40 below)" he wrote up here, and local musician Tex Johnson helped him. I don't understand the explainations for these songs in the brochure. I can't believe he lied to us.

Jean Flynn
Anchorage, Alaska

I like the Rockin' and Rollin' Johnny Horton collection better. Not that this cd is bad it just missed some of his greatest works. Once again someone saw fit to leave off Rock Island Lines. Any time you're listening to Johhny Horton it's a treat, so if you don't have it get it. And all you rock-a-billy fans it's a must have in your collection.

The Mean Eyed Cat
KNON Radio 89.3
Dallas, Texas

This CD was what I was looking for - in great condition and within quoted delivery time.

I am a Johny Horton fan. And this has some songs that i never hear before. A got to have for all Johnny Hortons fans.