Hillbilly-Music.com—The People. The Music. The History.
Al Shade
and the Short Mountain Boys and Girls

About The Artist

Al Shade was born in the heart of Lykens Valley, in Gratz, Pennsylvania, the son of a coal mining bootlegger. Jean Shade was born on a farm, near Round Top Mountain in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the daughter of a share cropper.

Together, they have produced over 10,000 radio shows and thousands of personal appearances.

One of their unique 'firsts' in the annals of country music history was being the first to book Country Music Hall of Famer, Loretta Lynn in the state of Pennsylvania and backing her up with his band.

From 1966 to 1971, he managed Williams Grove Park.

They have shared the show billing and stage with the likes of Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Dottie West, Bill Anderson, Connie Smith, Jack Greene, Porter Wagoner and more.

In addition, they've appeared over the years in such venues as the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree over WSM in Nashville, Tennesse and the legendary Renfro Valley Barn Dance.

They wrote and recorded a song called "Three Mile Island" that was aired on the network newscast hosted by David Brinkley in 1979.

Some of the other songs that he's penned include:

  • The Little Dogwood Tree
  • Three Mile Island
  • Branson, Missouri
  • The Pennsylvania Waltz
  • Jesus Cares
  • My Potter County Mountain Home
  • Dolly Parton, You're a Lady
  • Williamsport, Pennsylvania
  • Double Twin Swiss Moonlight Yodel
  • Forever and a Day

Al has been broadcasting over the radio since 1952.

Today they own the ALJEAN Records label and Goosepimple Music Publishing Co. (BMI). And they are still recording and making personal appearances, entertaining audiences, using a simple motto,

"We'll put a smile on your face and a song in your heart."

Related Web Links

Al & Jean Shade