In loving memory of  Tillman B. Franks,  1920 - 2006

  Tillman                                                       With David Houston & Kent Gill                                                   Tillman & Claude 

With the passing on October 26, 2006 of Tillman Franks, country music lost a true legend and a significant part of its history. 

Over a period spanning more than six decades, Tillman made an indelible impression on the country music industry.  He was a manager, promoter, songwriter, musician, and then some.  The list of artists whose careers were guided or influenced by Tillman is endless.  Hank Williams and Elvis Presley’s careers were jump-started when Tillman booked them on the Louisiana Hayride.  Webb Pierce became a household name with Tillman as his manager, and he took the great Johnny Horton to the top of the charts until his career was tragically cut short.  And if not for Tillman, we might never have heard of Claude King and David Houston or had the opportunity to hear the great music they made.

Tillman Franks will be greatly missed by all who knew him or are aware of his tremendous contributions to the music industry. In the year 2000, Tillman published his autobiography.  It is a real treasure and a “must read” for anyone interested in the history of country music.To read more about the book or to order, click HERE. 

In 2003, Tillman and Claude teamed up and released a new song by Claude titled “Cowboy In The White House”.  For more information, and to view pictures of Tillman and Claude, click HERE.
 

On stage with Claude and Toby Johnston                            Tillman, Claude and Toby                                            David Houston with Tillman