Ray Reed Sings Traditional Frontier and Cowboy Songs

On this 1977 Folkways release, New Mexico cowboy Ray Reed (1917–1998) sings songs about the old West; many of them he learned from his father, and he composed some as well. He had spent some years in California, and his polished style reflects the influence of the 1930s Los Angeles music scene, where he was friendly with some of the Texas Playboys―the group backing legendary Texas Swing singer Bob Wills.

In 1990, concerned about the passing of traditional cowboy culture, Reed initiated an annual festival in New Mexico, the Lincoln County Cowboy Symposium, that continues today. Liner notes provide background information on the music as well as song lyrics.

Track Listing

101	Sioux Indians Ray Reed	04:07
102	California Joe Ray Reed	14:47
103	Billy the Kid Ray Reed	02:32
104	Sod Shanty Ray Reed	03:19
201	O Bury Me Not Ray Reed	03:53
202	Zebra Dun Ray Reed	03:51
203	Punchin' the Dough Ray Reed	02:23
204	Powderhorn Ray Reed	03:52
205	Miss Aledo Ray Reed	02:39
206	Cattle Call Ray Reed	02:27