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Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular MusicA B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y ZBOXCAR WILLIE(b Lecil Travis Martin, 1 Sep. '31, Sterratt TX; d 12 April '99) Country singer who finally hit it big almost 50 years old, aka "Boxie'. Began semi-pro early '50s as Marty Martin, with day jobs as salesman, mechanic, in bowling alley; became pilot in USAF, then back to music late '60s, adopted hobo guise and new name playing small clubs mid-'70s. Spotted by Scottish promoter Drew Taylor at Possom Hollow club, Nashville '77; booked to tour Scotland; four more tours and '77 appearance at Wembley Festival '79 made an overnight star of an unknown with a train whistle sound. Repertoire based on music of his idols Jimmie Rodgers, Hank Williams, Lefty Frizzell; has written more than 400 songs in trad. style. Joined Grand Ole Opry '81; USA country chart hits '80-4 incl. top 40 "Bad News' |