On March 25th, 2021, the country music world lost one of its greatest talents. The Statler Brothers had been a staple in the industry for years, producing hit after hit with their distinct Southern charm and tight harmonies. However, there has been much speculation about which member of the group has passed away and the circumstances surrounding their death.
For those unfamiliar with The Statler Brothers, the group was formed in 1955 in Staunton, Virginia and consisted of four members: Harold Reid, Don Reid, Phil Balsley, and Lew DeWitt. The quartet rose to fame in the 1960s and 70s, with hits such as “Flowers on the Wall” and “Do You Remember These.” Despite DeWitt’s departure due to health issues in 1982, the group continued to make music and tour until their retirement in 2002.
The news of one of the Statler Brothers’ passing has left fans mourning and reminiscing on the impact the group had on country music. The identity of the member who has died has not yet been confirmed, but it is clear that their legacy will live on through their timeless music.
The Statler Brothers: A Brief Introduction
The Statler Brothers were one of the most popular and influential country vocal groups of the 20th century. Originally from Staunton, Virginia, the group consisted of four members: Harold Reid, Phil Balsley, Jimmy Fortune, and Don Reid. They started performing in the 1950s under different names and finally settled on the name “The Statler Brothers” in 1963.
Members of The Statler Brothers
- Harold Reid – bass singer and founding member of The Statler Brothers. He was known for his deep, resonant voice and his talent as a songwriter.
- Phil Balsley – baritone vocalist and founding member of the group. He was known for his smooth, melodious voice and his ability to harmonize with the other members of the group.
- Jimmy Fortune – tenor vocalist who joined the group in 1982. He was known for his high-pitched voice and his ability to write and perform hit songs.
- Don Reid – lead vocalist and founding member of The Statler Brothers. As the primary songwriter of the group, he was responsible for many of their biggest hits.
The Legacy of The Statler Brothers
During their more than 40 years together, The Statler Brothers released dozens of albums and won multiple Grammy Awards. They were known for their close-harmony singing style, their witty stage banter, and their heartfelt ballads. They were also known for their patriotic songs and their support of the military. In 2002, they were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, cementing their place in music history.
Which of The Statler Brothers Died?
Harold Reid, the bass singer and founding member of The Statler Brothers, passed away on April 24, 2020. He was 80 years old. His death was confirmed by his brother and fellow Statler Brother, Don Reid, who said in a statement, “He leaves a large and loving family and millions of fans who remember his stage and TV performances with The Statler Brothers with smiles on their faces and love in their hearts.”
| Name | Vocal Range | Years Active |
|---|---|---|
| Harold Reid | Bass | 1955-2002 |
| Phil Balsley | Baritone | 1955-2002 |
| Jimmy Fortune | Tenor | 1982-2016 |
| Don Reid | Lead | 1955-2002 |
The remaining members of The Statler Brothers continue to perform as a trio, honoring the legacy and memory of their fallen bandmate.
Overview of the Statler Brothers’ Discography
The Statler Brothers were a country music group that originated in Staunton, Virginia in the 1950s. The group consisted of Harold Reid, Don Reid, Phil Balsley, and Lew DeWitt, who was later replaced by Jimmy Fortune. The group’s unique sound was a blend of country, gospel, and rock’n’roll, and they were known for their tight harmonies and humor. The Statler Brothers released over 40 albums throughout their long career, and their discography includes a wide range of hits that have become classics in the country music scene.
Top 3 Albums
- Bed of Roses – Released in 1970, this album includes the hit song “Bed of Roses,” which became one of the Statler Brothers’ most popular songs. The album features a mix of country and gospel songs, including “The Teacher,” “Carry Me Back,” and “The Junkie’s Prayer.”
- The Best of The Statler Brothers – Released in 1975, this album quickly became a fan favorite and includes some of the Statler Brothers most well-known hits, such as “Flowers on the Wall,” “Do You Remember These,” and “I’ll Go to My Grave Loving You.”
- The Originals – Released in 1979, this album includes a mix of original songs and covers. It features the hits “Hello Mary Lou” and “Class of ’57,” as well as a cover of the Elvis Presley hit “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”
Other Notable Albums
Aside from the top 3 albums, the Statler Brothers’ discography includes many other notable releases. Some of these include:
- Sing the Big Hits – Released in 1967
- Today – Released in 1983
- The Statler Brothers Christmas Card – Released in 1978
Conclusion
The Statler Brothers’ discography is a testament to the group’s musical talent and unique sound. The group’s ability to blend country, gospel, and rock’n’roll resulted in a string of hits that continue to be popular today. Fans of country music and the Statler Brothers can enjoy their music for years to come thanks to their extensive discography.
Don Reid: The Last Surviving Member of the Statler Brothers
The Statler Brothers was a legendary American country music group formed in Virginia in 1955. Consisting of four members, including Harold and Don Reid, Phil Balsley, and Jimmy Fortune, the band was known for their heartfelt gospel harmonies, relatable lyrics, and outstanding performances. After releasing numerous hits and earning numerous awards, the group disbanded in 2002 following Harold’s death in 1999, Jimmie’s retirement in 2002, and Phil’s departure in 2002.
- Harold Reid passed away on April 24, 2020, at the age of 80, leaving Don Reid as the last surviving member of the group.
- Don Reid, born on June 5, 1945, in Staunton, Virginia, is a singer, songwriter, and author. He was the lead vocalist and songwriter of many Statler Brothers hits, including “Do You Know You Are My Sunshine,” “Bed of Roses,” “I’ll Go to My Grave Loving You,” and “The Class of ’57.”
- Don Reid has been inducted into the Virginia Country Music Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame, receiving numerous accolades for his contributions to the music industry.
Despite the departures of his fellow bandmates, Don Reid remains active in the music industry, continuing to write and perform music. In his memoir, “The Life of a Song,” published in 2020, he shared stories of his life with the Statler Brothers and how he and his bandmates created some of their iconic songs.
Don Reid’s talent, dedication, and contributions to the Statler Brothers’ musical legacy have earned him a special place in the hearts of music lovers around the world. His unwavering commitment to creating beautiful music that touches the soul continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
| Don Reid’s Achievements |
|---|
| Inducted into the Virginia Country Music Hall of Fame in 2014 |
| Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2008 as a member of the Statler Brothers |
| Winner of multiple Grammy Awards |
| Recipient of the Academy of Country Music’s Pioneer Award in 1993 |
Don Reid’s achievements speak for themselves, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to the craft he loves. As the last surviving member of the Statler Brothers, he continues to be an inspiration to aspiring musicians and music lovers everywhere.
The Death of Harold Reid: A Tribute
The Statler Brothers, a legendary country music group, achieved great success in the music industry during their more than four decades long career. One of the four members of the group, Harold Reid, passed away on April 24, 2020, at the age of 80, after battling kidney failure for several years. The death of Harold Reid has left an irreplaceable void in the music industry, and his fans and colleagues have expressed their grief and paid tribute to the late music icon. Here is a tribute to Harold Reid and the legacy he left behind.
- Early Life and Career: Harold Reid was born in Augusta County, Virginia, on August 21, 1939. He had a deep passion for music from an early age and started performing with his brother and cousins at local talent shows. The Statler Brothers, initially known as the Kingsmen, was formed in 1955, and the group underwent several changes in their lineup before the final four members, including Harold Reid, emerged as the core of the group.
- The Legacy of the Statler Brothers: The Statler Brothers were known for their unique blend of gospel, traditional country, and pop music, with tight harmonies and humorous lyrics. They released several chart-topping albums and singles during their career, including hits like Flowers on the Wall, Do You Remember These, and Elizabeth. The Statler Brothers won numerous accolades, including four Grammy Awards, and were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2008.
- Remembering Harold Reid: The death of Harold Reid has deeply saddened the music industry, and fans and colleagues have paid tribute to the late music icon. Don Reid, Harold’s younger brother and a fellow Statler Brother, wrote a heartfelt tribute on his Facebook page, expressing his love and admiration for his brother. The tribute read, “Harold was a fighter, a champion, and a funny, funny guy. We’ll miss him forever.” Country music stars like Dolly Parton, Randy Travis, and Reba McEntire also expressed their condolences and paid tribute to Harold.
The Death of Harold Reid: Funeral and Legacy
The funeral of Harold Reid was held on April 28, 2020, in Staunton, Virginia. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, only close family and friends attended the private service. Fans and well-wishers paid tribute to Harold by laying flowers, cards, and messages outside the funeral home. The Statler Brothers’ music will continue to live on, and the Death of Harold Reid has reminded us of the tremendous impact that the group had on the music industry.
| Full Name | Harold Reid |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 21, 1939 |
| Date of Death | April 24, 2020 |
| Cause of Death | Kidney Failure |
| Legacy | A legendary country music icon who was part of the Statler Brothers, winners of numerous awards and accolades, including four Grammy Awards and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. |
Harold Reid’s contribution to the music industry will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire and entertain future generations. Rest in peace, Harold Reid.
Famous Collaborations of the Statler Brothers
The Statler Brothers were one of the most successful country music groups of their time, with a career spanning several decades and over forty albums. They were known for their tight harmonies, traditional country sound, and humorous stage banter. In addition to their solo work, they collaborated with several other musicians and artists throughout their career, creating some of the most memorable moments in country music history.
1. Johnny Cash
- The Statler Brothers were longtime friends and collaborators with the legendary Johnny Cash.
- In 1965, they released the single “Flowers on the Wall,” which became a major hit and earned them their first Grammy award.
- They went on to tour with Cash and even appeared with him on his popular television show, The Johnny Cash Show.
2. Elvis Presley
- The Statler Brothers were also friends and frequent collaborators of the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley.
- They provided backup vocals on his iconic song “Suspicious Minds” and even toured with him in the 1970s.
- Elvis was known to be a fan of the group and often requested their presence during his performances.
3. Roy Rogers and Dale Evans
Another notable collaboration for the Statler Brothers was with western icons Roy Rogers and Dale Evans. In the 1980s, they recorded an album together called Together Again, which featured classic country and western songs as well as some new compositions. The album was a major hit and earned the group another Grammy nomination.
4. The Oak Ridge Boys
The Statler Brothers also worked closely with another popular country group, The Oak Ridge Boys. They recorded several songs together, including “Thank God for Kids” and “Bobbie Sue.” They also went on tour together and even appeared in a made-for-TV movie called The Boys Are Back.
5. Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers
The Statler Brothers’ collaboration with Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers was one of their most successful partnerships. They recorded several songs together, including “All the Gold in California” and “Houston (Means I’m One Day Closer to You).” These songs were major hits and earned the group several awards, including a Grammy for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group.
| Collaborator | Song/Album | Award/Nomination |
|---|---|---|
| Johnny Cash | “Flowers on the Wall” | Grammy Award for Best Contemporary (R&R) Single – Vocal or Instrumental |
| Elvis Presley | “Suspicious Minds” | N/A |
| Roy Rogers and Dale Evans | Together Again | Grammy nomination for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group |
| The Oak Ridge Boys | “Thank God for Kids” and “Bobbie Sue” | Multiple awards and nominations |
| Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers | “All the Gold in California” and “Houston (Means I’m One Day Closer to You)” | Grammy Award for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group |
The Statler Brothers left an indelible mark on country music and their collaborations with these and other artists have helped to shape the genre into what it is today. Their music and legacy continue to inspire new generations of country musicians and fans alike.
Evolution of Country Music: The Role of the Statler Brothers
The Statler Brothers played a pivotal role in the evolution of country music, particularly in the genre of country gospel. Initially formed as a backup group for Johnny Cash, the four-part harmony of the Statler Brothers quickly became their signature sound. They began releasing their own albums in the early 1970s and became known for their tight vocal harmonies and wholesome, family-friendly lyrics.
The Statler Brothers: A Biography
- The Statler Brothers were formed in 1955 in Staunton, Virginia, by brothers Harold and Don Reid, along with Phil Balsley and Lew DeWitt.
- They began performing as a backup group for Johnny Cash, and in 1964, they signed a recording contract with Columbia Records.
- Over the course of their career, the Statler Brothers released over 40 albums and won numerous awards, including three Grammy Awards and nine CMA Awards.
The Influence of the Statler Brothers
The Statler Brothers’ contributions to country music are undeniable. They helped to popularize the four-part harmony style of singing in country music, and their music paved the way for future country gospel artists, such as the Oak Ridge Boys and the Gaither Vocal Band.
Not only did the Statler Brothers influence the sound of country music, but they also helped to shape the public image of country music. Their wholesome, family-friendly lyrics and clean-cut appearance were a departure from the hard-drinking, rowdy image that had been associated with country music in the past.
The Death of Lew DeWitt
Lew DeWitt, one of the original members of the Statler Brothers, died in 1990 at the age of 52. DeWitt had battled Crohn’s disease for most of his life and was forced to leave the group in 1982 due to his failing health. He was replaced by Jimmy Fortune, who remained with the group until they retired in 2002.
| Name | Birthdate | Deathdate |
|---|---|---|
| Lew DeWitt | March 12, 1938 | August 15, 1990 |
Despite his struggles with health, Dewitt’s contribution to the Statler Brothers’ sound was immeasurable. His high tenor voice was a key component of the group’s four-part harmony and helped to define the Statler Brothers’ unique sound.
The Legacy of the Statler Brothers in American Folk Music
The Statler Brothers have left an indelible mark on American folk music. With their tight harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, they entertained audiences for decades. Their music touched the lives of millions of fans around the world. While all the members of the group contributed their unique talents to the Statlers’ success, the death of one of the members left a deep impact on the group and its fans.
- Don Reid
- Harold Reid
- Phil Balsley
- Jimmy Fortune
The Death of Lew DeWitt
Lew DeWitt was one of the founding members of the Statler Brothers. He played guitar and sang vocals for the group. DeWitt contributed to many of the Statlers’ early hits, including “Flowers on the Wall.” Unfortunately, DeWitt’s health began to deteriorate in the mid-80s. He was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and was forced to leave the group in 1982.
DeWitt continued to write songs and perform solo after leaving the Statler Brothers. He also recorded with other country artists, including Don Williams and Emmylou Harris. However, his health problems persisted, and he passed away in 1990 at the age of 52. DeWitt’s death was a great loss to the Statler Brothers and their fans around the world.
| Birth Name | Born | Died |
|---|---|---|
| Lewis Calvin DeWitt | March 12, 1938 | August 15, 1990 |
Despite the loss of Lew DeWitt, the Statler Brothers continued to make music and entertain audiences for many years. The group officially retired in 2002 after 39 years of performing together. Their music lives on, and their legacy as one of the greatest American folk groups of all time continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
Which of the Statler Brothers Died FAQs
1. Who were the Statler Brothers?
The Statler Brothers were an American country music group that formed in 1955 and consisted of four members: Harold Reid, Phil Balsley, Jimmy Fortune, and Don Reid.
2. Which of the Statler Brothers died?
Harold Reid, one of the founding members of the Statler Brothers, passed away on April 24, 2020, at the age of 80.
3. What was Harold Reid’s cause of death?
Harold Reid passed away after a long battle with kidney failure.
4. When did the Statler Brothers retire?
The Statler Brothers officially retired from the music industry in 2002 but continued to make occasional appearances together until Harold’s death in 2020.
5. Did the Statler Brothers have any famous songs?
Yes, the Statler Brothers had many famous songs, including “Flowers on the Wall,” “Do You Know You Are My Sunshine,” and “The Class of ’57.”
6. How did the Statler Brothers get their name?
The Statler Brothers got their name from a brand of facial tissue called “Statler” that they saw in a hotel room while on tour.
7. Will the Statler Brothers be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame?
Yes, the Statler Brothers were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2008.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for reading about which of the Statler Brothers died. Harold Reid was a beloved member of the group and will be missed by fans around the world. Although the group has officially retired, their music will continue to live on through their many famous songs. Please visit us again for more updates on the music industry.