[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 45 (Friday, April 2, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E533]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING MERLE KILGORE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 2, 2004

  Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a great 
Tennesseean and a legend in country music. Merle Kilgore is a 
businessman who has bridged his early music experience with today's 
growing country music industry.
  Merle began his career in Shreveport, Louisiana at the age of 14, 
carrying Hank Williams, Sr.'s guitar. Since then, Merle has risen as a 
leader in the country music industry. He co-wrote the ``Ring of Fire'' 
with June Carter-Cash, as recorded by Johnny Cash. That great hit sold 
more than sixteen million records. Merle didn't stop there; he 
continued to write hit after hit developing his catalog to over 300 
songs. All together his song collection has sold close to fifty million 
records. Merle's first Top Ten record was self penned ``Dear Mama,'' 
and he has accumulated several others since.
  Merle moved to Nashville in 1962 and began his management career. 
Merle has been affiliated with Hank Williams, Jr. for more than thirty 
years. On April 7, 1986, Merle was named the Executive Vice President 
and head of management of Hank Williams, Jr. Enterprises.
  In addition to managing Hank's career, Merle has served as Vice 
President of the Country Music Association and has served on the CMA 
Board of Directors since 1989. He has been President of both the 
Nashville Songwriter's Foundation, as well as the Nashville 
Songwriter's Association International. In 1987 he was named an 
honorary State Senator for Tennessee, and in 1998, Merle received the 
Legendary Songwriter's Award from the North American Country Music 
Association.
  Merle is an accomplished singer, songwriter, and actor. He is a 
shining star in the nation's entertainment industry. However, Merle is 
definitely not just ``resting on his laurels.'' For Singer-Songwriter-
Manager Merle Kilgore, the best may be yet to come. Today I rise to 
recognize Merle and thank him for his dedication and his willingness to 
share his incredible talents with Tennesseeans and country music fans 
worldwide.

                          ____________________