King Of The Road - Roger Miller
Trees". The latter had been previously recorded by George Jones, and in the 90's was a hit for Country superstar, Alan Jackson. "Trip" marked the end of his run with Mercury Records.
He later signed with Columbia Records and released the album, "Dear Folks: Sorry I Haven't Written Lately". It didn't succeed and Miller distanced himself from Country music. He did however, record and write songs for the Disney animated feature, Robin Hood in 1974, and narrated the film as well.
It wasn't until 1981 that Roger recorded again. This time, with Willie Nelson and Ray Price. The three cut the song "Old Friends", which didn't offer much success.
Within a decade and a half, Roger Miller had found the key to stardom, divorced twice, fought off personal demons, struggled for creativity, and then fallen from the limelight. When he was faced with the opportunity to write a Broadway score, he initially turned it down. The story, Big River, was to be a musical rendition of Mark Twain's famous Huckleberry Finn. Roger hadn't so much as read the book, and even after several proposals, showed no interest.
Knowing Miller's musical genius, the show's writers continued to send him letters. Roger finally agreed to read a script. The project was soon underway, and Mr. King of the Road spent a year and a half writing music for Big River.
The play became a smash and earned 7 Tony awards. Miller himself took home an award for Best Score. Big River also opened doors for a young actor named John Goodman, who later made it big in Hollywood.
With the play being such an incredible success, Miller now seemed content with his career. He'd done it all; written chart topping songs for some of Country's biggest acts, was an accomplished musician, award winning recording artist, was happily married to his third wife and was now a Broadway star. Nothing could bring him down now. But in 1991, Roger discovered he had throat cancer. He fought it hard for a year, but lost the battle on October 25, 1992. He was only 56.
A memorial service was held at the Ryman Auditorium where friends and family gathered for what they called a celebration of life. They told stories and listened to his music. They gathered in tribute to the man, the music, the laughter - to say goodbye.
Latest Articles