Hank Williams Album: “Health & Happiness Shows”

This is actually the first and only release in history of the complete Health & Happiness Shows. The recordings were mastered from transcription discs from the Country Music Foundation and the surface noise is left intact for the authenticity, plus you don't hear any of the commercials aired at the time these were broadcast on the radio. The shows were about a half hour each and for the most part ended with a hymn, the phrase, "If the Good Lord's willing and the creeks don't rise, we'll be sure to hear from you again" and the fiddle tune "Sally Goodin'" while the start of each show is done with Hank singing the cowboy tune "Happy Rovin' Cowboy." The shows were recorded at WSM radio and were broadcast nationwide. As a plus, the liner notes are great as well. Old time radio buffs, country music collectors, and Hank fans must have this set in their collection.

For the avid collector of Hank the health and happiness shows present the listener with some of the finest "live" sound that is available. The versions of his well known tunes vary slightly from the studio releases and therefore are very fresh and raw. There is Hank's heart that comes through in his voice that is not quite captured on the studio releases. This, along with "Hank at the Grand Ole Opry" is a must for every collector and enjoyer of Hank. Favorite cuts are " Tramp On The Street", Long Gone Daddy, I Saw The Light, and of course "lovesick Blues"

For my dollar this is the best collection of Hank's radio performances. It is unfortunately marred by a couple of songs by Audrey but otherwise great. This is really a stand-alone Hank album for those looking for a great single volume. It is also one of the few live collections with Lost Highway, what's with that?