Author Jimmy McDonough sits down with the Museum’s RJ Smith for a conversation about his book “Gary Stewart: I Am from the Honky-Tonks.” Shannon Ashburn, Stewart’s daughter; “Boogie” Bob Melton, Stewart’s longtime friend and band member; and Terry Porter, Stewart’s road manager, also take part in the program, recorded on April 11, 2026, in the Museum’s Ford Theater.

During this program, McDonough shares what drew him to write his book about Stewart. Ashburn narrates the numerous performance videos and career-spanning photos of her father shown throughout the program, and tells stories about what it was like growing up in the Stewart family. Melton and Porter contribute their own memories from life on the road with Stewart, shining a light on his energy, humor, and artistry.

Stewart—who was born in Kentucky coal country; lived in Fort Pierce, Florida; and died in 2003—sang with an unmistakable quaver in his throat and a temperament that stood alone. In the vein of fellow barroom belters such as Johnny Paycheck and Moe Bandy, he delivered songs about drinking, loving, and desperate living. His music bounced from country to Southern rock to barstool blues to rockabilly. With 1970s classics including “Drinkin’ Thing,” “Out of Hand,” “She’s Actin’ Single (I’m Drinkin’ Doubles),” and “Your Place or Mine,” Stewart built a fanatic following and a legendary reputation for stubbornly doing things his own way.

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