Roy Hogsed (1919-1978) forged one of the most original sounds in postwar country music, a tight and exciting small group sound that often anticipated the energy and drive of rockabilly and rock 'n' roll. He is best remembered for his hit version of the notorious \"Cocaine Blues\" and most identified with the accordion and guitar lead and slapped-bass rhythm of his original Rainbow Riders Trio. Ironically, however, some of his best work, like \"Snake Dance Boogie,\" \"Let Your Pendulum Swing\" and \"Ain't A Bump In The Road\" occurred in a looser, slightly larger band context. A good-time feel and infectious joy characterized his performances from start to finish. The Arkansas-born, San Diego-based Hogsed's recording career was relatively brief, spanning 1947-54, and his greater impact may have been limited by his largely local orientation, but he left an uncommonly enjoyable legacy.
