“[T]he definitive biography of Tubb.” — Ronald D. Cohen , Journal of Musicological Research
“Ernest Tubb is one of the most important artists in the history of country music. And it is absolutely astounding that, until now, no one has done a biography of this seminal figure. Well, that’s all changed with Ronnie Pugh’s biography on Tubb. To quote one of Tubb’s songs, ‘Thanks, thanks a lot.’ . . . [Pugh’s] readers not only understand Tubb but also the world in which he lived—a world of honky tonks, endless travel, family problems, and a loneliness in the midst of adoring fans.” — Popular Music and Society
“There is no dearth of biographies of country music stars but few are on a par with this excellent study. . . . Ernest Tubb is distinguished by good writing and extensive research. . . . [It] will become one of those volumes against which other country music studies will be judged.” — William McNeil, Western Swing Journal
“Ernest Tubb . . . he was always bigger than life to me. Every time I sang with him, it was always the same . . . he is immortal. His life and helping hand touched mine and many more in a special way. Ronnie Pugh captured the heart and soul of Ernest Tubb in Ernest Tubb: The Texas Troubadour. This book should be a part of every country music fan’s library.” — Loretta Lynn
“In many ways, Tubb is the father of modern country music, and this book is the definitive account of his career. It chronicles an age of country music that has too often been ignored by earlier writers in the field, a terra incognita in which are found the wellsprings of modern country music and the methods of presenting it. This is the best biography of any modern country music artist I have read. It will become a definitive book on American culture.” — Charles Wolfe, author of Kentucky Country, Tennessee Strings
“Ronnie Pugh has spent years studying and researching the life and career of my father, Ernest Tubb . . . and the picture he has painted is right on the money! It’s all here, the good and the bad. Reading the book was like having my dad back for a little while.” — Justin Tubb
“The first phonograph record I ever purchased was by Ernest Tubb. He was my hero long before he became my friend. Country music has never produced a kinder, gentler, more caring humanitarian than the Texas Troubadour. Ronnie Pugh’s book is a vivid and touching portrayal of a gifted entertainer and a marvelous human being.” — Bill Anderson
“This book takes its place as a standard in country music studies. Ronnie Pugh’s outstanding scholarship goes very far beyond much that remains tawdry in pop culture hype. He stands with Bill Malone, Bob Pinson, Joe Dan Boyd, Dave Whisnant, and fellow ‘natives’ who loved ‘their’ music in childhood and, as adults, paid it the dues of critical respect.” — Archie Green, author of Only a Miner