The Drifting Cowboys were the backing group for American country legend and singer-songwriter Hank Williams. The band went through several lineups during Williams' career. The original lineup was formed in 1938, changing musicians from show to show until Williams signed with Sterling Records. The lineup was further modified in the following years, with the most famous version of the group formed in 1949 for Williams' appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. Although the Drifting Cowboys were credited on Williams' records, until 1950 Williams was backed by session musicians on recordings, with the label crediting the Cowboys. In 1951 Williams disbanded the group. After his death, the band was used for a short time by Ray Price. Former members later toured under the name of the band.