Curator's Corner: Pittsburgh's Queen of Country

Abstract

In many Western Pennsylvania homes during the 1950s, one could hear the familiar jingle of “E-Z Credit, E-Z Credit, Wilkens is the place where you can get it.” The woman behind the music was Abbie Neal, in her signature fringed western wear and Stetson hat, and her all-female western band. They performed around the country from the 1940s until Abbie’s retirement in 1975. Known not just for her musical talent but also for her sweet and vivacious personality, she inspired a devoted fan base throughout the country, including local boy Lou Christie, then known as Luigi Sacco, a member of her fan club from age 8, who became known for his 1966 hit “Lightnin’ Strikes.”

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