Cannon Jordan Born:  August 12, 1909 Died:  May 6, 1996 WSM Grand Ole Opry WSM Nashville, TN

About The Artist Cannon Horace Jordan was the son of Jesse H. and Maude Jordan, born in Camden, Tennessee. At the age of 18, he appeared on the WSM Grand Ole Opry on Saturday night February 27, 1926 and gave a half-hour program between 9:30pm and 10:00pm. He was one of several piano players that would appear during the early years of the Opry broadcasts. During commencement exercises at Central High School in Camden in May 1927, an article noted "...made himself famous through his programs given during the past two years over the WSM radio station in Nsahville." He would later become a music teacher. On May 11, he was to present his students in a piano recital as part of commencement exercises for Benton County high school. He also made local appearances at various functions. In one instance, he played "nuptial music" prior to a wedding ceremony that provides a glimpse as to the type of songs he played. On this occasion, he played "I Love You Truly," "Oh, Sweet Mystery of Life," Oh, Promise Me." Lohengrin's "Bridal Chorus" was the entrance music for the bridal party. During the service, "Indian Love Call" was played softly during the ceremony. The tunes would be played at other wedding ceremonies as noted by news articles seen during research. He made several appearances on WSM, accompanying Mrs. Mildred Jolly Eashlee, a soprano. In 1932, he played piano as part of the Benton county band. It was organized by Professor Will Schwalb. Members included Merrill Lashlee, James Odle, Leland Hall, Edd Louis Dodd, Ezelle Thompson, Vernon Cain, Wayne Smothers as well. In May of 1996, the retired music teacher passed away at the age of 86. He was also the organist for the First United Methodist Church in Camden. He was survived by a sister, Julia, and a brother, Carroll. Credits and Sources 16 Get Diplomas at Camden High School; May 22, 1927; The Tennessean; Nashville, TN Benton High To Close Term May 16; April 13, 19300; The Tennessean; Nashville, TN Miss Katherine Peeler Becomes Bride Of John H. Barnhill; August 31, 1930; The Tennessean; Nashville, TN Young-Capps Vows Are Said; July 31, 1947; The Tennessean; Nashville, TN Organize Band; February 16, 1932; The Tennessean; Nashville, TN Miss Davidson Weds Mr. Webb In Camden; March 22, 1932; Nashville Banner; Nashville, TN Federation of Women Convened At Camden; November 7, 1948; The Jackson Sun; Jackson, TN Cannon H. Jordan, 86, retired music teacher; May 7, 1996; The Jackson Sun; Jackson, TN

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