Clip description
This clip is from the start of Smoky Dawson and the Singing Bullet. In this episode, Young Billy (Ray Hartley) is kidnapped by Crogan and Gilmore, Smoky’s old enemies. They take him to an isolated hut to lure Smoky (Smoky Dawson) into a trap, but Smoky is too wily. He foils their plot with a song and a singing bullet, fired from a gun built into his guitar.
Curator’s notes
The episode begins with Smoky singing ‘Riding with a Smile and a Song’, the theme that he wrote on his way back to Australia to begin work on the show. This recording was one of a few that were pressed as a 78 rpm recording for sale. They were released around 1955 through Columbia Children’s Records.
This episode, featuring the ‘gun in the guitar’, was one of the most famous in the ten years of the show. Among Australian country singers, few could match the velvety smooth tone of Dawson, who sounds a bit like Bing Crosby in this recording. Young Billy was played by Ray Hartley, Jingles by Alan Herbert.
Announcer Smoky Dawson and the Singing Bullets!
Smoky Dawson (singing) Ridin’, ridin’, in the land where I belong
Ridin’, just a ridin’, with a smile and a song.
Jungles That’s young Billy’s favourite tune, isn’t it, Smoke?
Smoky Yeah, that’s right.
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australianscreen is produced by the National Film and Sound Archive. By using the website you agree to comply with the terms and conditions described elsewhere on this site. The NFSA may amend the 'Conditions of Use’ from time to time without notice.
All materials on the site, including but not limited to text, video clips, audio clips, designs, logos, illustrations and still images, are protected by the Copyright Laws of Australia and international conventions. All rights are reserved.
When you access australianscreen you agree that:
- You may retrieve materials for information only.
- You may save, copy, print, distribute or download materials for your own personal use or for non-commercial educational purposes. Commercial exploitation of materials on this website is prohibited.
- The National Film and Sound Archive’s permission must be sought to amend any information in the materials, unless otherwise stated in notices throughout the Site.
ANY UNAUTHORISED USE OF MATERIAL ON THIS SITE MAY RESULT IN CIVIL AND CRIMINAL LIABILITY.
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