" Catfish John" is a song written by Bob McDill and Allen Reynolds first released on McDill's album Short Stories, and subsequently recorded and released by American country music artist Johnny Russell. It was released in November 1972 as the fourth single from the album, "Catfish John"/"Chained".Edward Morris Songwriter Bob McDill Talks About His Many Hits Legendary Tunesmith Submits to Rare Interview at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum July 4, 2008 CMT News The song is credited with propelling Bob McDill into the front ranks of country songwriters.
The song has also been performed by Jerry Garcia (Jerry Garcia Band, Old & In the Way), as well as other musicians.Robert Margolis Trey, Weir Honor Garcia Disciples and old friends honor late Dead frontman in Berkeley Sep 26, 2005 Rolling Stone Toots Hibbert recorded the song on Fire on the Mountain: Reggae Celebrates the Grateful Dead (Pow Wow), a Grateful Dead tribute album.Mike Joyce New Releases: Pop The Washington Post June 16, 1996 FIRE ON THE MOUNTAIN' CELEBRATES GRATEFUL DEAD MUSIC August 8, 1996, All Things Considered on NPR It has also been performed and recorded by Alison Krauss and Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Australian country music band The Hawking Brothers released their version in 1973 reaching 32 on the charts.Kent, David (1993). Australian Chart Book 1970–1992 (illustrated ed.). St Ives, N.S.W.: Australian Chart Book. p. 135. ISBN 0-646-11917-6.
| U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles | 12 |
| Canadian RPM Country Tracks | 3 |
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