When Jimmy Fortune first stepped onto the stage with The Statler Brothers in 1982, few could have predicted that the young tenor from Virginia would become not only the group’s newest member, but one of its most enduring voices. Over the years, Fortune’s clear, soaring vocals would breathe new life into the group’s sound — and later, define his own remarkable solo career.
A Chance That Changed Everything
Jimmy Fortune’s journey with The Statler Brothers began with a phone call that would alter his life forever. The group’s tenor, Lew DeWitt, had fallen ill and needed a temporary replacement. Fortune was recommended by friends in the industry and, after one audition, he was asked to step in.
That “temporary” position became permanent when DeWitt retired in 1983 due to health issues. Fortune quickly became an integral part of the Statlers, contributing not just his voice but also his songwriting talent.
A Songwriter’s Heart
Among his most notable contributions were original songs that became Statler classics — including “Elizabeth”, “My Only Love”, and “Too Much on My Heart.” These heartfelt ballads showcased Fortune’s ability to blend deeply personal lyrics with the group’s rich harmonies, and they became fan favorites, earning chart-topping success in the process.
His songwriting added a fresh dimension to The Statler Brothers’ repertoire, keeping their music relevant during the 1980s and early 1990s.
The Final Curtain for The Statlers
After nearly two decades together, The Statler Brothers retired from touring in 2002. For Fortune, it was a bittersweet moment — the end of an era filled with camaraderie, laughter, and unforgettable performances, but also the beginning of a new chapter.
A New Beginning: Solo Career
Jimmy Fortune embraced his next phase with courage and determination. He began performing solo concerts, often incorporating Statler classics alongside his own new material. His solo work allowed him to explore more personal stories, gospel influences, and acoustic arrangements that highlighted his voice’s purity.
Albums like “When One Door Closes”, “Windows”, and “Hits & Hymns” have kept him connected to fans old and new. In particular, Hits & Hymns — accompanied by a Gaither Music DVD — showcased his faith-driven artistry and earned critical acclaim.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
Today, Jimmy Fortune remains a beloved figure in country and gospel music. Whether on the Grand Ole Opry stage, a small-town theater, or a festival field, his performances radiate warmth, humility, and gratitude.
Reflecting on his career, Fortune often credits his success to the fans who have stood by him since his Statler Brothers days. “I just try to sing from the heart,” he once said. “If it touches someone the way music has touched me, then I’ve done my job.”
A Voice That Endures
From the harmonies of The Statler Brothers to the heartfelt intimacy of his solo career, Jimmy Fortune’s journey is a testament to talent, resilience, and faith. Decades after his first performance with the Statlers, his voice continues to echo — a reminder that some music never fades, it only grows richer with time.