Empty Saddles in the Old Corral Tennessee Ernie Ford ....Ernest Jennings Ford (February 13, 1919 – October 17, 1991), Tennessee Ernie sings the opening song for the Man in the Saddle ... 1951 ". known professionally as Tennessee Ernie Ford, was an American recording artist and television host who enjoyed success in the country and Western, pop and gospel musical genres. Noted for his rich bass-baritone voice and down-home humor, he is remembered for his hit recordings of "The Shotgun Boogie" and