Hoyt Axton was a prolific songwriter and performer, best known for writing hits for others. “Greenback Dollar”, “The Pusher”, “Joy to the World” and “Never Been to Spain” all charted for The Kingston Trio, Steppenwolf and Three Dog Night, respectively. Axton also had a pair of duets with Linda Ronstadt make the Country Top 40, with “Lion in Winter” and “When the Morning Comes”. Mae Boren Axton was Hoyt’s mother, who famously co-wrote “Heartbreak Hotel” and “Pick Me Up On Your Way Down”.
He may also look familiar to folks who grew up on 70’s and 80’s television, with roles in “Gremlins” and “The Black Stallion”. And of course, he sang “Head For the Mountains” in the famous Busch beer ads.
Hoyt Axton passed away in 1999.