Clinton, North Carolina, October 12, 2025
News Summary
The PBS documentary “Voices from the Past: Jackie Butler and His Playmates” premiered recently, highlighting the early 1950s child band from Clinton, North Carolina. Produced by the North Carolina Broadcast History Museum, this film captures the essence of the band and their significance to local culture through rare recordings and anecdotes. With a premiere airing on PBS-NC, the documentary aims to celebrate their musical journey and impact on North Carolina’s heritage.
Clinton, North Carolina
The PBS documentary “Voices from the Past: Jackie Butler and His Playmates” premiered recently, highlighting the legacy of a notable child band from Clinton, North Carolina, that gained popularity in the early 1950s. The documentary is set to air on PBS-NC starting Thursday at 9:30 p.m.
Produced by the North Carolina Broadcast History Museum, the film features the direction of Denver Hollingsworth and the production efforts of Mike Weeks. It captures the essence of Jackie Butler and His Playmates, who were celebrated for their music and comedy, and included members Jackie Butler (11), Wade Hargrove (10), C.D. “Nutgrass” Carter (10), and Ciana Butler (7). The film incorporates footage filmed in Raleigh with former band members C.D. Carter and Wade Hargrove in October 2024, highlighting a reunion 70 years after the band’s heyday.
The band was well-received, particularly due to their live radio program on WRRZ, the first radio station in Clinton, which began broadcasting on April 5, 1947. The station played a significant role in helping to popularize local acts, including Jackie Butler and His Playmates. They performed at various fairs and festivals, becoming a cherished fixture in the local music scene.
Among their notable songs are “Just Lookin’” and “Paw Ain’t Got a Cent (to Throw Away on Groceries)”, both of which were released on the Decoy label. Jackie Butler’s father, Mel Butler, served as a crucial figure in the band’s journey, teaching Jackie guitar, writing their songs, and transporting them to performances.
The documentary aims to preserve the friendship and pride that was integral to their musical journey, emphasizing their contribution to North Carolina’s cultural heritage. Despite the passage of time and the fact that band members eventually pursued different careers, the legacy of Jackie Butler and His Playmates endures, as exemplified by C.D. Carter, who unexpectedly passed away shortly after the documentary was filmed. His grandson, James Barbee, continues the musical tradition as a member of the band High June.
Charlotte broadcaster John Hutchinson praised the documentary as an essential tribute to North Carolina’s significant contributions to country music and broadcasting heritage. The film employs rare recordings, photographs, and personal stories to immortalize the nearly lost legacy of Jackie Butler and His Playmates, underscoring the importance of this child band in the history of American music.
FAQ
What is the documentary “Voices from the Past” about?
The documentary focuses on Jackie Butler and His Playmates, a child band from Clinton, North Carolina, that gained popularity in the early 1950s.
When will the documentary air on PBS-NC?
“Voices from the Past” will air on PBS-NC starting Thursday at 9:30 p.m.
Who produced the documentary?
The documentary is produced by the North Carolina Broadcast History Museum (NCBHM) with Denver Hollingsworth as the cinematographer and director, and Mike Weeks serving as the producer.
What kind of content does the documentary include?
The documentary includes rare recordings, photographs, and personal stories to preserve the nearly lost legacy of Jackie Butler and His Playmates.
What impact did Jackie Butler and His Playmates have?
They were known for their live radio program and performances at “The Good Ole Opry” show in downtown Clinton, and they helped shape the local music scene in North Carolina.
Key Features of the Documentary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Title | Voices from the Past: Jackie Butler and His Playmates |
| Premiere Date | Thursday at 9:30 p.m. |
| Produced by | North Carolina Broadcast History Museum |
| Key Individuals | Denver Hollingsworth (Director), Mike Weeks (Producer) |
| Music Notables | Notable Songs – “Just Lookin’”, “Paw Ain’t Got a Cent” |
| Historical Significance | Highlights the child band’s impact on local music in North Carolina |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Stubbs Conner Obituaries: Jackie Arthur
- Graceland Fairlawn Obituaries: Jeanette Butler
- Washington Post: Billionaires and Business
- Butler Eagle: Jacqueline Bice Obituary
- Harper Funeral Home: John Cheatham Obituary
- Wikipedia: Documentary Film
- Google Search: Jackie Butler
- Google Scholar: Jackie Butler Documentary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Documentary
- Google News: Jackie Butler
Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON
The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
