Ray Reed Sings Traditional Frontier and Cowboy Songs
Ray Reed

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 | 4:07 | |
102
|
California Joe | Ray Reed | 14:47 | |
103
|
Billy the Kid | Ray Reed | 2:32 | |
104
|
Sod Shanty | Ray Reed | 3:19 | |
201
|
O Bury Me Not | Ray Reed | 3:53 | |
202
|
Zebra Dun | Ray Reed | 3:51 | |
203
|
Punchin' the Dough | Ray Reed | 2:23 | |
204
|
Powderhorn | Ray Reed | 3:52 | |
205
|
Miss Aledo | Ray Reed | 2:39 | |
206
|
Cattle Call | Ray Reed | 2:27 |