Evel Knievel Album Recorded in Jackson, MS

Top right corner Evel Knievel is written in bold pink text. Evel Knievel is in a white suit jumping fourteen cars (what appear to be Datsuns) in a stunt that could only be attempted by a madman. In the background, stands are filled with eager spectators. In the back left of the image are three American flags and what appears to be the state flag of Mississippi. In the foreground is a blonde haired man in a wrinkled long-sleeved shirt.

In the 1970’s a motorcycle stuntman from Butte, Montana gained worldwide acclaim for his daredevil stunts and world record jumps. Evel Knievel began his career performing in rural county fairs and moved all the way up to sold-out stadiums. Some of his most famous motorcycle stunts included jumps at Caesars Palace (1967), Madison Square Garden (1971), Twin Falls, Idaho, Snake River Canyon (1975), and Wembley Stadium (1975), with each jump becoming increasingly more dangerous.

Among his many admirers was James R. Stringer, president of Pickside Record Company based out of Jackson, Mississippi. In 1972, Mr. Stringer and others recorded a country music album in tribute to Evel Knievel. In the liner notes, Mr. Stringer writes:

“I’ve met many brave men in my life, but Evel Knievel is the bravest, most courageous and absolutely fearless man that I have even known or will ever meet. The Evel Knievel Album contains ten songs about the undisputed King of Stuntmen, I know you will enjoy them.”

All words and music were written by James R. Stringer, other than two instrumental tracks written and recorded by Stan Bryant, who performed on all songs on Side B of the record. Songs on Side A were performed by Stringer and by 70’s era Country/western singer Hub Reynolds.

To learn more about this or any item in our collections, contact Andrew Rhodes at or 601.266.6765.

Text by Andrew Rhodes, Mississippiana Specialist