Red Sovine

Woodrow Wilson “Red” Sovine (July 7, 1917 – April 4, 1980) was an American country guitarist and singer/songwriter. Sovine was born in Charleston, West Virginia and nicknamed Red for his auburn-colored hair. Sovine would begin his work in music at an early age after receiving his first guitar as a gift from his mother at the age of 17.

Red began his music career in the early 1940’s, with his first group, the Echo Valley Boys, being formed in 1947. Red began to make appearances at the Grand Ol' Oprey beginning in 1954, further skyrocketing his career. His most famous work revolves around the life of a trucker, with hit songs “Giddy-Up Go,” “Teddy Bear,” and Little Joe all revolving around a life on the road.

Red Sovine passed away at age 63 of a heart attack while driving in Nashville, Tennessee. He was survived by his three children William, Michael, Roger, and Janet; all by his first and only wife Norma Searls (1919-1976).