Don Reid: Life, Music, & Legacy Of The Statler Brothers - A Look Back

Was there a single moment that irrevocably altered the course of a life, shaping destinies and etching itself into the annals of history? For Don Reid, the voice and pen behind the iconic Statler Brothers, that moment arrived at the 1963 Roanoke Fair, a turning point that launched him from local obscurity into the vibrant landscape of country music.

Born during the 1940s, a decade bookended by the tumultuous World War II and the burgeoning promise of the postwar era, Don Reid's life mirrored the broader societal shifts of the time. The early forties were a crucible, forging a generation amidst conflict, while the latter half witnessed the dawn of the baby boomer years, accompanied by groundbreaking technological advancements like the jet engine, radar, and the nascent stages of space exploration. These innovations, harbingers of a new age, provided the backdrop against which Reid's artistic journey would unfold.

The Statler Brothers, originally a local act performing around their hometown of Staunton, Virginia, to meager pay, were steadily building a name for themselves. Meanwhile, the music charts were dominated by the likes of Johnny Cash, a contemporary whose raw energy and storytelling resonated with a generation. Don Reid, navigating the complexities of life, including personal upheavals, found solace and expression in his music. The early days were marked by the struggle of making a living, often paying for the "privilege" of performing, a familiar tale for many aspiring artists.

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Don Reid's life, intertwined with the tapestry of American music, saw him navigate both professional triumphs and personal trials. His creative partnership with his brother Harold Reid and fellow bandmates Phil Balsley and Lew DeWitt solidified The Statler Brothers' place in country music history. Their gospel-infused harmonies, distinctive songwriting, and enduring stage presence became hallmarks of their success. Harold Reid's bass vocals, the tenor of Lew DeWitt (later replaced by Jimmy Fortune), and the harmonies created a unique sound that resonated with audiences.

The Statler Brothers' style, deeply rooted in their gospel origins, was a key element of their appeal. As Harold Reid once noted, they took "gospel harmonies... and put them over in country." Don Reid's songwriting prowess was central to the group's identity, with his lyrics capturing the essence of everyday life, love, loss, and faith.

Reid's personal life also unfolded alongside his career. His marriage to Debbie in 1973 marked a significant milestone. He found himself divorced at one point, working a "secretary to the superintendent" role, and married his first wife, Gloria Elaine Fairchild, in 1964. The complexities of his relationships and the joys of family life, including the births of his children, Debo Reid, Langdon Reid, Kim Reid Weller, Karmen Reid, Kodi Frye, Kasey Reid, and Will Reid, influenced his perspective and found expression in his music.

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The Statler Brothers induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame on February 12, 2008, in Nashville, Tennessee, was a testament to their enduring legacy and contribution to the genre. The group's influence extended beyond music, as Don Reid also found success as an author, penning fiction and non-fiction works, expanding the reach of his storytelling abilities. Don and Debbie Reid continue to make their home in Staunton, Virginia, sharing their lives with their cocker spaniel, Lucy. Don is a member of a generation, now in his late 70s, still deeply connected to his community.

The bonds of family also played an important role in Don Reid's life. He found support in his faith, with prayers offered for his wife, children, and sister. He also had a close relationship with his brother Harold Reid, who sang bass in the group, and found support in the other members, Phil Balsley and Jimmy Fortune.

Don Reid's influence extended beyond his own career. He played a part in shaping his family's future. His son, Langdon, would later joke about the impact of his father's commencement speech at his high school graduation. His influence also encouraged others to pursue music. Don Reid's journey, a blend of talent, hard work, faith, and family, solidified his place in music history. He remains an inspirational figure for those who seek to create a lasting impact.

Reid's career and family life both offer a glimpse into the world he inhabited. The success of The Statler Brothers, coupled with his personal experiences, provides a roadmap for aspiring artists and people, exemplifying the power of dedication, perseverance, and the lasting impact of a well-lived life. Don Reid stands as a remarkable example of a life dedicated to family, faith, and the enduring power of music and the written word. His story is a testament to the lasting impact that a life of art and human connection can have on the world.