Tennessee Ernie Ford - Sixteen Tons (1955) "Sixteen Tons," performed by Tennessee Ernie Ford in 1955, became an iconic anthem reflecting the struggles of American workers, particularly coal miners. With Ford's deep baritone, the song vividly depicts the harsh realities of labor and debt under the company store system. Originally written by Merle Travis in 1946, inspired by the coal mining hardships in Kentucky, the song resonated with Ford, whose rendition cemented its place in American music hi

Tennessee Ernie Ford - Sixteen Tons (1955) | 1950s MUSIC

"SIXTEEN TONS" A song written by Merle Travis about a coal miner, based on life in mines in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. Tennessee Ernie Ford recorded "Sixteen Tons" in 1955. With Ford's snapping fingers and a unique clarinet-driven pop arrangement, it quickly became a million seller. It hit Billboard's country music chart in November and held the No. 1 position for ten weeks, then crossed over and held the number 1 position on the pop music chart for eight weeks, besting the competing version b

16 tons (Merle Travis) by The Possum Scratchers, vid by Juliette Lane . Steady Steve tellin’ it how it is . Straight from the heart . Catfish never heard it and Hoppy never played it. Heh! Heh! We need more of that Steady . Hope all yous kind, staunch folks can get joy outa this song , a pride that comes from workin’ hard and lookin’ after yer loved one’s and fellow workers no matter what yer job is . Thanks fer yer support. Love Yous . The Possum Scratchers from Biripi Country, NSW, Australia.