“Rejoice and be glad, for the springtime has come. We can throw down our shovels and go on the bum.”
Legendary drifter, hobo, union man & song collector Harry McClintock spent quite a bit of time in California. He likely was the most noteworthy Country musician to come out of California during that golden era of early recorded music (1927-1931). He also has the unique distinction of being a hobo musician who actually spent quite a lot of time hoboing around himself. This tradition was carried on by Utah Phillips, who turned McClintock’s “Hallelujah! I’m a Bum” into the definitive anthem of his repertoire. Hell, McClintock even had his own Hobo name, “Haywire Mac”. Mac’s music was distinctly counter-cultural, a hell of a lot of fun and pretty darn funny. That’s a pretty impressive accomplishment for a bum. This 78 is available here at Folk Arts, in stunningly beautiful shape. Only $13. A lucky number. Give us a handout to revive us again.