Stonewall Jackson

Introduction to Stonewall Jackson

Stonewall Jackson was one of the most popular country singers of the 1950s and 1960s, best known for his honky-tonk style.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Jackson was born in Tabor City and was the youngest of three children. He lost his father when he was two, and his mother moved to South Georgia, where he worked on farms and sang in church. He bought his first guitar at the age of 14 and learned to play by listening to the Grand Ole Opry radio show.

Military Service and Move to Nashville

After serving in the Navy during the Korean War, Jackson moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue a career in music.

Breakthrough with the Grand Ole Opry

He auditioned for the Grand Ole Opry in 1956 and became the first artist to join the Grand Ole Opry without a recording contract.

Success with Columbia Records

Jackson signed with Columbia Records in 1958 and achieved his first major hit with “Life to Go.” He recorded his most successful record, “Waterloo,” which reached number one on both the country and pop charts.

Pioneering Concept Albums

He was one of the first country singers to record concept albums, such as “The Sadness in a Song” and “Old Showboat.”

Challenges and Lawsuits

Jackson faced challenges, including lawsuits from former managers and adapting to evolving musical trends. He sued the Grand Ole Opry for age discrimination, and the case was finally settled in 2008.

Legacy and Recognition

Jackson remained a member of the Grand Ole Opry until his death in 2021 at the age of 89. He was inducted into the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame in 2012 for his contributions to the music industry.