History of Jerry Jeff Walker in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: September 12, 2024

"Mr. Bojangles" singer-songwriter Jerry Jeff Walker was a pivotal figure in the outlaw country and progressive country music movements. The American musician was known for his unique blend of country and folk music.

March 16, 1942: Birth of Jerry Jeff Walker

Jerry Jeff Walker, originally named Ronald Clyde Crosby, was born on March 16, 1942.

1968: Release of "Mr. Bojangles"

In 1968, Jerry Jeff Walker penned and released his iconic song "Mr. Bojangles."

1968: Inspiration Behind "Mr. Bojangles"

Released in 1968, Walker's song "Mr. Bojangles" was inspired by a real-life encounter with a homeless tap dancer whom he met in a New Orleans jail.

1970: Release of "Stoney" and Musical Journey

In 1970, Walker, after a period of busking and using different stage names, released "Stoney," a song referencing his friendship with H.R. Stoneback. He also legally changed his name to Jerry Jeff Walker around this time.

1971: Nitty Gritty Dirt Band's Success with "Mr. Bojangles"

The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band's rendition of "Mr. Bojangles" in 1971, which reached number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100, further popularized Walker's song.

September 28, 1974: Performance at Carnegie Hall

On September 28, 1974, Walker, alongside Doug Sahm, performed at Carnegie Hall's Main Hall.

1974: Marriage to Susan Streit

Jerry Jeff Walker married Susan Streit in Travis County, Texas, in 1974.

1974: Jim Stafford's Inclusion of "Mr. Bojangles"

Jim Stafford included "Mr. Bojangles" in a medley on his self-titled debut album in 1974, showcasing the song's enduring appeal.

1977: Mention in "Luckenbach, Texas"

Walker's influence on the outlaw country music scene was evident in 1977 when Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson referenced his "train songs" in their hit "Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)".

1986: Founding of Tried & True Music

Jerry Jeff Walker, dissatisfied with the mainstream music industry, took a leap of faith in 1986 and, with his wife Susan at the helm, established his own independent record label, Tried & True Music.

1998: Release of "Cowboy Boots and Bathing Suits" and Collaboration

In 1998, Walker released the album "Cowboy Boots and Bathing Suits," recorded in his retreat on Ambergris Caye in Belize. That same year, he collaborated with Ramblin' Jack Elliott, contributing to Elliott's duets album "Friends of Mine."