“I Owe My Soul to….”

Sound Beat

Friday, August 6, 2021 -

Merle Travis recorded the original 16 tons in 1946…though he did have a little help with its legacy.

You’re on the Sound Beat.

The lyrics of Sixteen Tons paint a grim picture of a Kentucky coal miner’s life.

Tennessee Ernie Ford took a shine to the song, recording and releasing it as a B-side to “You Don’t Have to Be a Baby to Cry” in October of ‘55. Two months later, it was the greatest selling single of all time.

Travis would express his thanks onstage, frequently changing the last stanza to “I owe my soul to… Tennessee Ernie Ford.”

Subscribe to this podcast

Riverton Weather

  • Sat

    82°F

  • Sun

    77°F

  • Mon

    73°F

  • Tue

    79°F

Currently playing on Delmarva FM

  • Laura Flanders Show

    6:30am - 7:00am

    Leads the field in new economy media, reporting on the social critics, artists, activists, and entrepreneurs who are building tomorrow's world today.

Coming up on Delmarva FM

  • Thinkwing Radio

    7:00am - 8:00am

    We talk about anything and everything. My interests are many and varied, and the show reflects that. Topics include domestic and international politics, public policy, society and culture.

  • Radio Curious

    8:00am - 8:30am

    Barry Vogel. I like to ask questions about life and ideas. These interviews provide some answers.

Download Delmarva FM to your device!

Get our mobile app for Android or iPhone. Also, look for us on the J1 Radio Roku channel.

  • Available on the App Store
  • Available on Google Play
  • Available on Roku

Follow Delmarva FM on Facebook & Twitter

Delmarva's Home for Pacifica

Delmarva FM is a proud affiliate of the Pacifica Network offering compelling, educational and entertaining programming.