Stuart Hamblen(1908-1989)

During his youth Stuart Hamblen traveled throughout Texas with his father, and itinerant preacher who later became the head of his denomination. Hamblen attended school between trips, preparing for a teaching career, later completed college with a degree in education. He practiced singing while riding the range, often writing his own songs. His first musical opportunity came when he won an amateur singing contest in Dallas and was engaged to join a group of touring singers. Eventually he settled in California, where he began his radio career while also appearing in motion pictures and rodeos. His Radio program ran for 20 years. Eventually Hamblen would convert to the evangelical faith and begin to concentrate on writing hymns and sacred songs. Hamblen would also go on to record a collection of Robert W. Service poems, entitled: The Spell of The Yukon. Stuart Hamblen included several of his own compositions as well. The Spell Of The Yukon (Columbia) Side 1 Side 2 Shake The Hand Of A Man (Hamblen) Send Me A Lady (Hamblen) The Shooting Of Dan McGrew (Service) The Cremation Of Sam McGee (Service) The Lure Of The Little Voices (Service) Make Believe Bay (Hamblen) Pokolodie Bill Left His Soul Behind (Hamblen) Big Wicked Bill (Hamblen) The Spell Of The Yukon (Service) Mush (Hamblen)