The Statler Brothers—comprised of Lew DeWitt, Harold Reid, Phil Balsley, and Jimmy Fortune—were not only one of country music’s most successful vocal groups but also a perfect example of the strong and lasting friendships that can form within the music industry. Their bond was unique, forged through years of collaboration, shared struggles, and mutual respect, both professionally and personally.
Early Beginnings and the Birth of the Friendship
The Statler Brothers’ story began in Staunton, Virginia, in the late 1950s, when Harold Reid and Phil Balsley formed a group that would later evolve into the Statler Brothers. They were later joined by Lew DeWitt and Jimmy Fortune, rounding out the quartet. The group’s name, inspired by a brand of toilet paper called Statler, was both playful and humble, reflecting their down-to-earth nature.
From the start, the group was tightly-knit, with a shared passion for music and a strong sense of camaraderie. Their friendship was evident not only in their music but also in the way they interacted on and off the stage. Each member brought something unique to the table, whether it was DeWitt’s strong lead vocals, Reid’s comedic flair, Balsley’s harmony, or Fortune’s later addition of smooth tenor vocals. Yet, it was their collective dedication to the craft that created the foundation for their friendship. Their willingness to work hard and support each other was key to their success.
A Family-Like Bond
The Statler Brothers’ strong friendship extended beyond the professional. Their interactions offstage were marked by a sense of family that transcended the business side of the music industry. They supported each other through the highs of fame and the lows of personal challenges, often referring to one another as brothers in the truest sense of the word.
In interviews, the members spoke about the bond they shared, noting how they always had each other’s backs, no matter the circumstances. When Lew DeWitt was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in the 1980s, the group rallied around him. DeWitt’s illness led to his eventual departure from the group in 1982, but his friendship with the remaining members never wavered. Jimmy Fortune was brought in as DeWitt’s replacement, and he quickly became an integral part of the group, helping to maintain their tight-knit dynamic.
Navigating Challenges Together
The Statler Brothers’ journey was not without challenges. The pressures of fame, personal issues, and the inevitable struggles of life on the road took their toll. However, their friendship allowed them to weather these storms together. They didn’t just share success on stage but also the burdens that came with it. Their ability to communicate openly and honestly with one another—while maintaining a sense of humor and respect—was central to their ability to remain together for more than three decades.
The group’s collective bond was further tested when Lew DeWitt left due to his health problems. Jimmy Fortune stepped in, not only continuing the band’s musical legacy but also ensuring that the spirit of camaraderie stayed intact. DeWitt, despite his departure, remained a close friend and was always welcomed back by the group. Their loyalty to one another was unshakable, and even as they went through changes, they maintained that underlying foundation of friendship.
Legacy of Friendship
After the Statler Brothers retired from touring in 2002, their legacy as a group of friends was immortalized in their music. Their harmonious blend of voices, witty lyrics, and heartfelt ballads were a testament to the strong bond they shared. The Statler Brothers were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2008, a fitting honor for a group that had become not only a staple in the country music world but also a shining example of what true friendship looks like in the music industry.
Even after their retirement, the members remained close, often sharing their stories and memories in interviews. They continued to support each other in their individual endeavors, always emphasizing the importance of their relationship.
In the end, the Statler Brothers’ friendship was the foundation of everything they accomplished. Their music, their unity, and their ability to overcome personal and professional challenges together serve as a reminder that strong friendships—built on mutual respect, support, and love—are just as important as the music itself. The Statler Brothers are not just remembered for their hit songs like “Flowers on the Wall” and “I’ll Go to My Grave Loving You”, but for their unwavering bond and the way they demonstrated the power of friendship in both the music business and in life.