King of the Wild Frontier

Who was Born on a mountain top in Tennessee, Greenest state in the land of the free. Raised in the woods so's he knew every tree, Killed him a bear when he was only three? Yes it was of course Davy, Davy Crockett, King of the Wild Frontier.

When I was nine I knew every verse and Fess Parker, who played the all American hero, was a household name. In those pre-rock and roll days he was the nearest thing to a superstar among the kids, even in suburban south London. He went on to play another American hero Daniel Boone in a 60s TV series, but it was his role of Davy Crockett in the Disney films that made his name. I see that he has died aged 85 and the Vinyl Word raises a glass to those innocent times.

For those of a certain age, here are the Davy Crockett lyrics in full. Don't they bring back memories?

Born on a mountain top in Tennessee, Greenest state in the land of the free. Raised in the woods so's he knew every tree, Killed him a bear when he was only three. Davy, Davy Crockett King of the Wild Frontier.

He fought single handed through the Injun war, Till the Creeks was whipped and peace was restored. And while he was handling this risky chore, Made himself a legend, forevermore. Davy, Davy Crockett the man who don't know fear.

When he lost his love, and his grief was gall, In his heart he wanted to leave it all, And lose himself in the forest tall, But he answered instead, his country's call. Davy, Davy Crockett, the choice of the whole frontier

He went off to Congress and served a spell Fixin' up the government and laws as well. Took over Washington, so we hear tell, And patched up the crack in the Liberty Bell. Davy, Davy Crockett, seein' his duty clear. (Serving his country well)

When he come home, his politickin' done, The western march had just begun. So he packed his gear, and his trusty gun And lit out a grinnin' to follow the sun. Davy, Davy Crockett, Leadin the Pioneers.

His land is biggest, and his land is best From grassy plains to the mountain crest He's ahead of us all in meeting the test Followin' his legend right into the West Davy, Davy Crockett, King of the Wide Frontier King of the Wild Frontier.