Burl Ives could really sing. He also was faithful to the traditions of the songs he sang.
He did some damage with the HUAC.

There are so many fine performers who have questionable personal backgrounds
that range from ego aggrandizement to destruction of their lives and others.
It comes with the territory.

Burl Ives was an important model for young people who are picking up folk songs to re-interpret them for the public.

1. He could really sing in a powerful but sweet tenor voice.
2. He was a commanding entertainer who could elicit many encores.
3. He enlarged his talent as a fine actor. (Cat On A Hot Tin Roof)
4. He was versatile in his ability as a singer.

Woody's comment (if it is really true) belies his close association with Burl at the
beginning of both of their careers.

Burl's capitulation to the fascist HUAC is lamentable.

Frank Hamilton