A Hankerin' for Country

Hank Williams Sr. is legendary. Called the "Hillbilly Shakespeare," he lived fast, died young, and left a beautiful legacy. Hank Williams Jr. is almost as legendary as his dad. Like many sons with famous fathers, Hank II grew up in his father's shadow; but he eventually heeded his genes' call. In the early 1970s, Hank II left behind the Nashville establishment and embraced his maverick destiny — he grew a beard and long hair and started hanging out with members of the Allman Brothers and the Marshall Tucker Band. The impact of rock and blues was felt within Hank II's newly stripped-down take on country, as he went from Mr. Cleancut Music Row to Wild-Eyed Southern Boy. And just like Dad, Hank II found time to sire another Hank — Hank III. Yes, the beat goes on for the Williams dynasty.

Hank Williams Jr. performs at 8 p.m. Tuesday, August 15, at the Hard Rock Live, 5747 Seminole Way, Hollywood. Tickets cost $40 to $70. Call 954-523-3309, or visit www.ticketmaster.com.