Earl Scruggs was the banjo’s answer to Buddy Rich: simply the best.
Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs’ performance of “The Ballad of Jed Clampett” is an iconic moment in the history of bluegrass and American television. This song, which served as the theme for the popular TV show “The Beverly Hillbillies,” epitomizes the fusion of entertainment and musical artistry, and it showcases the talents of two of bluegrass music’s most influential figures.
Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs, both born in the early 20th century, joined forces in 1948 after having played with Bill Monroe’s Blue Grass Boys. Their partnership formed one of the most influential bluegrass bands known as Flatt and Scruggs and the Foggy Mountain Boys. They were instrumental in popularizing the bluegrass genre, with Earl Scruggs’ innovative three-finger banjo picking style becoming a defining characteristic of the sound.
“The Ballad of Jed Clampett” was written by Paul Henning, the creator of “The Beverly Hillbillies,” and it tells the rags-to-riches story of the Clampett family, who move to Beverly Hills after striking oil (“black gold”) on their land. Flatt and Scruggs’ rendition of the song became an instant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in early 1963. The song’s catchy melody and humorous lyrics, combined with Flatt’s smooth vocals and Scruggs’ banjo expertise, made it a memorable and enduring piece of American pop culture.
The song’s success and its association with “The Beverly Hillbillies” helped bring bluegrass music to a broader audience. The television show, which aired from 1962 to 1971, was one of the most-watched programs in the United States during its run. As the theme song, “The Ballad of Jed Clampett” played a significant role in embedding Flatt and Scruggs’ music in the American consciousness, introducing many viewers to bluegrass for the first time.
Beyond their work on “The Ballad of Jed Clampett,” Flatt and Scruggs enjoyed a successful career that spanned over two decades. They recorded dozens of albums and became synonymous with the bluegrass genre. Their fast-paced, innovative style influenced countless musicians and helped to shape the sound of modern bluegrass.
Lester Flatt, known for his rhythm guitar playing and distinctive vocal style, brought a warmth and relatability to their music that complemented Scruggs’ virtuosic banjo playing. After the duo parted ways in 1969, Flatt formed his own group, Lester Flatt and the Nashville Grass, continuing to perform and record until his death in 1979.
Earl Scruggs, on the other hand, continued to push musical boundaries and explore new sounds. He formed the Earl Scruggs Revue with his sons, blending traditional bluegrass with contemporary rock, folk, and country elements. Scruggs’ willingness to experiment with different genres further solidified his legacy as a pioneering force in American music.
“The Ballad of Jed Clampett” remains a significant part of Flatt and Scruggs’ musical legacy, a testament to their impact on American music and culture. Their rendition of the song not only provided the soundtrack for one of America’s beloved sitcoms but also served as a bridge between traditional bluegrass and mainstream popular music. Through their innovative sound and broad appeal, Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs left an indelible mark on the music world, with “The Ballad of Jed Clampett” standing as a lasting symbol of their contributions.
