Roy Claxton Acuff (1903–1992), known as the “King of Country Music,” was born in Maynardsville, Tennessee, in what he fondly called “a little three-room house.” The son of a Baptist minister, Acuff moved to Knoxville at age 16.

A great musical stylist and passionate fiddler, Acuff brought old-time country to life. His spirited stage presence inspired Hank Williams and generations of country performers.

“Turn loose and have fun. Give the audience a show,” he once said. His performances were homespun and heartfelt—complete with balancing a fiddle bow on his nose.

With his band The Smokey Mountain Boys, he recorded classics like The Precious Jewels (1940), Wreck on the Highway (1942), and Two Different Worlds (1945).

“People used to call it hillbilly music,” Acuff said with pride. “I never took offense. I'm from the mountains, so I guess I am a hillbilly.”

In 1942, Acuff co-founded Acuff-Rose Publishing with Fred Rose, launching Nashville's first modern music publishing house. Their motto: “Songs for the home folk.” The pair became industry icons, and in 1962, Acuff was honored as the first living member of the Country Music Hall of Fame.

“I don't want anybody to grieve for me, because I've had a wonderful life,” he reflected. “I've been able to do everything I've wanted to do.” Roy Acuff lived with passion. He gave his heart to country music — and country music loved him right back.