Expert: Dr. J. M. Allen - 4/4/2008

Question
Dear Dr.Allen, around the 1980 or so time frame I purchased a discounted record of a male country singer for about 99 cents and ended up enjoying it immensely. The album cover featured a middle-aged bearded man sitting on a swing, wearing what looks like a top hat and holding perhaps a mandolin. His voice was scratchy and warm and his material was definitely rocking/country. I wished I remembered his name so I can find that album again, my first having been destroyed in a fire. Would you by any chance know of whom I'm referring to? Your assistance in any way is greatly appreciated. Mike Tran

Answer
That sounds very suspiciously like Leon Redbone. He has a scratchy voice, beard and often wore top hats and other hats.


He did jazz, country, blues, even christmas music. He has recorded with almost everybody.
If this is not him, check him out anyway...the music is good and fun to listen to...particulary the christmas songs like his take on Frosty the Snowman with Dr. John...classic!