Remembering the Hank Williams Impersonator Who Gave Us a Country Classic

Songwriter Jim Owen, who kept the memory of Hank Williams alive, died on this day in 2020 at age 78.

Mar. 7, 2026 at 9:36pm

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Songwriter Jim Owen, who was known for his impersonations of country music legend Hank Williams Sr., passed away on March 7, 2020 at the age of 78. Owen wrote several hit songs for other artists, including the classic duet "Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man" recorded by Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty. He also produced a PBS special and one-man stage show celebrating the life and music of Hank Williams.

Why it matters

Jim Owen's lifelong dedication to preserving the legacy of Hank Williams through his impersonations and songwriting helped introduce the iconic country singer to new generations of fans. His work ensured that Williams' influence and impact on country music would continue to be felt long after his untimely death.

The details

Owen, a native of Robards, Kentucky, first became fascinated with Hank Williams as a child after seeing him perform live. He went on to write hits for other country artists, including "Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man" which became a number one single for Loretta Lynn and Conway Twitty in 1973. Owen also produced a PBS special and one-man stage show that allowed him to channel Williams' persona and music, winning an Emmy Award for the TV program.

  • Jim Owen died on March 7, 2020 at the age of 78.
  • "Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man" was released as a single in May 1973 and reached number one on the country charts.

The players

Jim Owen

A songwriter from Robards, Kentucky who was known for his impersonations of country music legend Hank Williams Sr. and wrote several hit songs for other artists.

Hank Williams Sr.

A pioneering country music singer and songwriter whose influence and impact continued to be felt long after his untimely death in 1953.

Loretta Lynn

A legendary country music singer who recorded the hit duet "Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man" with Conway Twitty.

Conway Twitty

A country music superstar who recorded the hit duet "Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man" with Loretta Lynn.

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What they’re saying

“Country music's least known country superstar.”

— Charlie Daniels

The takeaway

Jim Owen's lifelong dedication to preserving the legacy of Hank Williams through his impersonations and songwriting helped ensure that the iconic country singer's influence would continue to be felt for generations to come, even after his untimely passing. Owen's work, including the hit duet "Louisiana Woman, Mississippi Man", cemented Williams' status as one of the most important and enduring figures in country music history.