In a 1967 clip from “The Bill Anderson Show,” veteran Grand Ole Opry member Stonewall Jackson performs his hit “I Washed My Hands in Muddy Water.” Written by Joe Babcock, the song reached number eight on Billboard's Hot Country Singles chart in 1965.
Stonewall Jackson, born on November 6, 1932, in Tabor City, North Carolina, and raised on a South Georgia farm, became one of country music's most enduring figures. His career began to take off in 1956 when he joined the Grand Ole Opry without having a recording contract, a unique achievement in the Opry's history. His debut single, "Don't Be Angry," released in 1958, set the stage for a string of hits that solidified his place in country music history.
Jackson's most notable songs include the chart-topping hits “Waterloo” (1959), which spent five weeks at number one and crossed over to the pop charts, and “B.J. the D.J.” (1963). His repertoire also includes several Top Ten hits like “Life to Go,” “Why I’m Walkin’,” “A Wound Time Can’t Ease,” and “Don’t Be Angry,” all of which highlight his ability to convey deep emotion and connect with audiences.
Despite his success, Jackson's career was not without challenges. He fought legal battles with the Grand Ole Opry over age discrimination, showcasing his tenacity and commitment to his craft. Jackson continued to perform and record music throughout his life, maintaining a dedicated fan base.
Jackson passed away on December 4, 2021, at the age of eighty-nine, after a long battle with vascular dementia. His legacy, however, lives on through his music and memorable performances like the 1967 rendition of “I Washed My Hands in Muddy Water.”
