Ballad of Jed Clampett
Osborne Brothers · Osborne Brothers 1 (1956-1968) [Bear Family] [1993]
(Paul Henning)
Come and listen to my story 'bout a man named Jed
Poor mountaineer barely kept his family fed
Then one day he was shooting at some food
And up through the ground came a bubbling crude.
Oil that is, black gold, Texas tea.
--- Instrumental ---
Well, the first thing you know Jed's a millionaire
Kinfolk said Jed, move away from there
He said that California is the place he ought to be
So he loaded up the truck and they moved to Beverly.
Hills that is, swimming pools and movie stars.
--- Instrumental ---
Now it's time to say goodbye to Jed and all his kin
They would like to thank you folks for kindly dropping in
You're all invited back again to this locality
To have a heaping helping of their hospitality.
Beverly Hillbillies that's what they call 'em now
Nice folks, y'all come back now, hear?...
Come and listen to my story 'bout a man named Jed
Poor mountaineer barely kept his family fed
Then one day he was shooting at some food
And up through the ground came a bubbling crude.
Oil that is, black gold, Texas tea.
--- Instrumental ---
Well, the first thing you know Jed's a millionaire
Kinfolk said Jed, move away from there
He said that California is the place he ought to be
So he loaded up the truck and they moved to Beverly.
Hills that is, swimming pools and movie stars.
--- Instrumental ---
Now it's time to say goodbye to Jed and all his kin
They would like to thank you folks for kindly dropping in
You're all invited back again to this locality
To have a heaping helping of their hospitality.
Beverly Hillbillies that's what they call 'em now
Nice folks, y'all come back now, hear?...
Ballad of Jed Clampett
Recorded by the Osborne Brothers, this track exemplifies the group's mastery of traditional country and gospel styles. The Osborne Brothers, a renowned American duo from the early 1960s, delivered this recording with their signature harmonies and acoustic instrumentation. Their work often blended religious themes with secular storytelling, creating a distinct sound that resonated deeply with audiences of the era. This particular song reflects the duo's commitment to preserving and performing authentic American folk traditions. Released on their 1993 Bear Family compilation, the recording stands as a testament to their enduring legacy in country music history.