The Statler Brothers

The Statler Brothers began as a gospel quartet in Staunton, Virginia, where they formed in 1955 under the name the Four Star Quartet. They later performed as the Kingsmen before adopting the name the Statler Brothers in 1963, inspired by a brand of facial tissues. The original lineup featured Harold Reid, Phil Balsley, Lew DeWitt, and Don Reid. In the early 1980s, Jimmy Fortune joined the group, replacing Lew DeWitt.

From 1964 to 1972, the quartet served as the opening act and backup singers for Johnny Cash, a period that brought them national exposure. Their recorded catalog includes songs such as “Flowers on the Wall,” “Bed of Rose’s,” “The Class of ’57,” and “Do You Remember These.” They also released the gospel album Amen and performed the hymn “How Great Thou Art” in a live setting, reflecting the group’s enduring ties to their gospel roots.

The Statler Brothers earned three Grammy Awards and were named the Country Music Association’s Vocal Group of the Year nine times. Their contributions to both country and gospel music were recognized with inductions into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. The group retired in 2002.