Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular Music

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HAMBLEN, Stuart

(b Carl Stuart Hamblen, 20 Oct. '08, Kellyville TX; d 8 March '89, LA) Songwriter, country singer, actor, later gospel singer. Graduated from McMurray College, Abilene; moved to southern CA '28, formed group to sing Western songs on radio at the beginning of the singing cowboy era. Signed to Victor '29, joined Beverly Hillbillies '30; became top Western singer-songwriter with 'My Brown-Eyed Texas Rose', 'Out On The Texas Plains', 'Golden River', 'My Mary', etc. Appeared in cowboy films, usually as a bad guy. Had reputation as hell-raiser, but converted by a Billy Graham Revival Crusade he became a gospel singer; following hits such as 'I Won't Go Hunting With You Jake (But I'll Go Chasin' Wimmin)' and 'Remember Me (I'm The One Who Loves You)' '49--50, had lasting success with 'It Is No Secret' (famously covered by Elvis Presley '57, many others), 'Open Up Your Heart (And Let The Sun Shine In)', 'This Ole House' (pop hit by Rosemary Clooney '54; by Shakin' Stevens in UK '81). Ran for President on Prohibition ticket '52, lost by 27 million votes; had long- running syndicated radio programme The Country Church.