Ole Lonesome George the Basset
Tom T. Hall · Country Songs for Children [Mercury] [1995]
Ole lonesome George the basset lived in Brentwood Tennessee
And even though he had his faults he was a sight to see
He taught the show dog puppies to always try and please
To hold their heads and tails up and not wet the judge's knees.
Ole George was not a champion but his owners loved him so
They drived the car to the dogshows ole George would get the dough
But when he'd get out in the rain he never could win first
Several judges shook their heads and said he was the worst.
Then one day the kannel keeper got an urgent call
From the local TV to Mr. Tom T. Hall
They said Johnny Cash is puttin' on the show tonight
He says he needs a basset you've got one ain't that right.
Lonesome George went to the show and he did everything
He barked and growled and jumped around and made the rappers ring
He'd left the people cheering for another curtain call
And so ole lonesome George became the show dog after all, mhm...
About Ole Lonesome George the Basset
Tom T. Hall's "Ole Lonesome George the Basset" stands as a quintessential example of his storytelling prowess, blending traditional folk themes with a distinct Southern drawl. Recorded for the 1995 Mercury compilation *Country Songs for Children*, the track showcases Hall's ability to craft whimsical narratives that resonate with both adults and young listeners. The song's gentle melody and Hall's characteristic vocal delivery create an intimate atmosphere, characteristic of his work across albums like *Singing Storyteller* and *I Wrote a Song About It*. Hall's discography is renowned for its focus on character-driven ballads and narrative songs, often drawing from the rich tapestry of American rural life. While this particular recording targets a younger audience, it reflects the same lyrical depth found in his broader catalog, including tracks like "I'd Rather Die Young" and "She Gave Her Heart to Jethro." The piece remains a testament to his skill in transforming simple subjects into memorable musical experiences, solidifying his legacy as a master of the American songbook.