One Hit Wonder: Frankie Ford (1959)

Sea Cruise

B-side: Roberta

Released: 1959

Recorded: 1958

Songwriter: Huey 'Piano' Smith 

Frankie Ford and Me

The year I was born, Frankie Ford had his only hit song, Sea Cruise. It came to my attention in 1978. I was dating a guy named Chuck from the small town of Sardis, Georgia. Sardis was in Burke County. It was 'dry'; no alcohol could be sold within county limits. 

Chuck's father had a still, and his favorite song was Sea Cruise. So, at one of Chuck's parent 'hoe-downs,' I was introduced to Frankie Ford and moonshine. I liked the song a lot, but I mixed Coca-Cola with my whiskey and got a lot of laughs. Evidently, moonshine isn't for mixed drinks. Couldn't drink it straight. From then on, I was known in Sardis as the City Boy who couldn't handle his moonshine.

Huey Smith and the Clowns

Huey "Piano" Smith, a New Orleans piano player, wrote this song and "Rockin' Pneumonia." The song was initially recorded by Huey Smith and the Clowns, but Frankie Ford's lead vocal replaced Huey Smith's while the group was on tour. Ford even re-wrote some of the lyrics to get a songwriter credit. The tune was credited to Frankie Ford with Huey "Piano" Smith and The Clowns. He was furious when he heard the finished product.

Herman's Hermits

Herman's Hermits

Herman's Hermits cover version was a hit at the peak of the first British Invasion. 

Other Covers

• John Fogerty on his self-titled solo album. (here)
• Don McLean on his album, Believers. (here)
• Glenn Frey on his first solo album, No Fun Aloud (here)

Sea Cruise

Frankie Ford