Jimmy Dean -
'I owe you a million thanks'

(Editor's Note: Jan Edwards, who lives in San Antonio and is currently writing a book about country music, submitted the following story about country-western entertainer Jimmy Dean who grew up in Plainview.)

by JAN EDWARDS/Special to the Plainview Daily Herald
(Originally published in the April 10, 1991 edition of The Plainview, TX Daily Herald)

It's time for the long, tall Texas from Plainview to be well aware of the love his fans hold in their hearts, for his never-ending contribution to the world of country music.

Being associated with a weekly show in Virginia that involved many country and wester performers, I traveled the East Coast often, seeking and meeting some of the best entertainers.

It was in Washington, D.C. in the 1950's when I first met Jimmy Dean.

He has a series of daily and weekend shows that were produced by Connie B. Gay.

During our first conversation, after a television show, I realized immediately that he was a down-to earth, sincere and warm-hearted person who really cared about his audience, their likes and dislikes.

Here was a man who wanted to be free, to be himself, to express his true feelings through song. He could never portray something or someone whom he wasn't.

When I told him how much I enjoyed his show, his singing and unique style of accordion playing, he must have humbly thanked me a dozen times.

Jimmy gained fame in the nation's Capitol, especially on "Town and Country Jamboree," and was sent to the Caribbean, and Panama areas and later to Europe to entertain our servicemen.

In the early '60s, he skyrocketed to the top with "Big Bad John," which he wrote while on a plane trip between Dallas and New York, never dreaming it would be a smash hit.

Country music's best recitationist gifted his audience with "I.O.U.," penned for his mother, and "To A Sleeping Beauty," a tribute to his daughter, Connie.

I have never listened to these two songs without tear-filled eyes, and have never heard Jimmy recite them without his own deep emotion bursting forth. His heartfelt sentiments are what has earned him a reputation as a great recitationist.

It's been over two decades since Jimmy was the star of a country-style ABC television variety hour and there are thousands like me that miss that kind of entertainment.

When you watched his shows, you witnessed the traditional country music.

It's always a delight to see him as a great on "Nashville's Now," or "The Grand Ole Opry," and to hear him sing the soft melodies that only he can give justice to.

Jimmy, you once signed a picture for me that read, "Thanks a million, Jan." Well, now it's my turn to say "Jimmy Dean, I.O.U. a million thanks, for all the happiness you've brought into my life, through your songs."

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