Homer and Jethro

Homer and Jethro from the 1940s through the 1960s were often referred to as 'the thinking man's hillbillies', specializing in comedy records and satirical versions of popular songs.

Guitarist Henry D. 'Homer' Haynes and mandolin player Kenneth C. 'Jethro' Burns were outstanding jazz musicians who were deeply influenced by the European Gypsy string jazz of Django Reinhardt, a style that would influence their work until Haynes's death in 1971.

Signed to the RCA Victor label in 1949, RCA's country A&R man Steve Sholes suggested they switch their comedy hook to singing parodies of country and pop hits. Most were penned by Burns, the wit and humorist of the pair.

Over time, their patter became more sophisticated, giving them access to mainstream audiences on network television and in Las Vegas. Chet Atkins produced many of their later RCA albums including two blazing instrumental jazz efforts: Playing It Straight and It Ain't Necessarily Square.

Homer and Jethro were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1985.

Homer and Jethro

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