Arkansas Red - 'Black Jack Davey'

This archival clip of Front Row features Arkansas Red from season Five playing "Black Jack Davey"

[ArkRed]

Yes, that is a home made guitar. I made it from the scrap wood from my mother in law's house that my brother in law built. My inspiration was the home made guitar that Arkansas singer Jimmie Driftwood had. Here in the Ozarks we "make do" with what materials we have. I named the guitar after my Hobo friend, Guitar Whitey.

[BlueCatUs]

Thank you, Arkansas Red! I have liistened to this over and over! Beautiful voice! I first heard Johnny Cash sing this on Little House on the Prarie's episode "The Collection". You sing it the best, my friend!

[ArkRed]

After watching this I realized that this version is a collection of three versions I know, and not purely Almeda's version, although she sang her version for me and that started me on the trail. That was fifty-odd years ago in Mt. View, Arkansas. Ah, the folk process. After fifty years I'm surprised I even remembered any of the words. RIP Almeda. You were a jewel.

[brojhn]

I remember many years ago in east Kentucky, my grandma would sing this song a capella. Thank you.

[vincentmondello]

Way to go Red, you have earned your place.

[ripsnortinroy]

I first heard my grandmother sing this song many years ago. this is one of my favorite versions. seems authentic, and I love the guitar. pickin' is pretty sweet, too.

[MrMusicguyma]

One of my favorite songs. Loved Almeda Riddle's version, Woody Guthrie's, Carter Family's, Robin Williamson's and on and on and on.

[countsezwhat]

mighty fine Red, love your box guitar

[erentoprakci]

Btw, you're singing fantastic Mr. Arkansas Red. Guess you're from Arkansas. Hope to visit USA soon, i love Bluegrass and the Dixieland and all other parts.

[MrGitpicker]

My `ol buddy Red.. Hope he lives forever!

[infotainment]

Excellent for sharing this video with me. It sure was nice speaking to you on the phone today about the "old times", Kansas City, Hobie Shepp and the Cowtown Wranglers, Little Cora Rice and the Cowtown Jubilee show. It is so sad that so many of the oldtime stars have passed away. I am so glad you are still out there performing and keeping the torch burning.
Mike Pruitt from Oklahoma

[calliopeguy]

Outstanding! Looking forward to hearing what you do with a banjo

[brandonashley]

Interesting that this song made it to the Ozarks, it's sung here in the Appalachian mountains as well

[DDechoes]

MoonPie sticker on your guitar - Boss move.

[erentoprakci]

Just amazing song. But, ...it's a bit weird to leave you're baby because of the Black Jack Davey 😁

[ArkRed]

I have a video of the entire TV show. Also a new CD called Last Train Out.

[wadefite]

original 1960s incredible string band version tops everything. recent ISB band doesnt compare

[BlueCatUs]

Does this particulas singer have any other songs? I would love to hear them.

[hackbritton]

go go Trump. thanks for the Trump songs.

[ArkRed]

Three simple chords. E A B7th. If you learn three guitar chords you can play five hundred folk songs. So I've heard. Never tried it.