I loved the Statlers and I particularly loved Lew. It was he who wrote the clever "Flowers on the Wall". While I also loved Jimmy's tenor, my own personal preference is for Lew's sweet, soft, violin-like timbre. I remember when Lew died and I am sorry he had to suffer from Chrone's. I have just learned of Statler bass vocalist Harold Reid's passing yesterday and I am also saddened by that. Thus, I am spending some time today, listening to old Statler Brothers songs and loving Lew's and Harold's contribution. Thanks for the beautiful work, Lew!
I've been a fan since the early 1970's when I was very young. I think anyone could relate to their songs. I saw them 3 times at the Indiana State Fair in the late 1980's after Lew DeWitt had retired. They were really good and seemed to want to make sure the people got their money's worth. I dont know how anyone would not enjoy their music.
How sad Lew thought he didn’t get to say what he wanted. I grew up listening to them thanks to my Daddy…..the amazing sound that came outta Lew’s mouth seems to just fall out effortlessly! He continues to be my very favorite tenor and his fantastic voice brings tears to my eyes! He may not have said what he felt like he wanted, but he truly touched my life with his amazing voice! RIP Lew!
Lew was the best tenor ever. He certainly made his mark on the world. He was one of a kind and glad I was a fan during a few years he was still singing. Thanks for the post.
Lew had perhaps the sweetest, most poignant tenor voice I've ever heard in ANY genre of music. Its tone sends shivers up my spine, gives me goosebumps on my arms, and plucks at my heartstrings like no other voice ever has or ever will. This is not hyperbole; it's the sincere truth. His voice was that of an angel, and I thank God that He shared Lew's voice with us for the time He did. Gone but NEVER forgotten and never replicated. RIP Lew DeWitt 1939-1990.
Thank you Dennis for posting. I saw Lew with the Statler Brothers back in 1967 and enjoyed an incredible evening with the young lady who soon became my wife. Flowers on the Wall was their introduction to fame, they understood the need for quality harmony and personal presentation, most importantly they understood the need for a song to tell a compelling story.Thank you Lew for your top class work and the joy you gave all your fans. I regret that your work caused you the stress which led to your untimely death. We will meet again in God's glorious kingdom.
Listened to the Statler brothers all my life, and it is very hard to say which is best between Lew DeWitt and Jimmy Fortune, because both are great in their own right. Listening for so long though, I have to agree with the poster who stated that Lew was the greatest tenor ever. He definitely left the world with memories of one of the most beautiful voices ever. He is definitely unforgettable.
One word to describe Lew Dewitt: unique. In an industry flooded with so-called singers, it's the greatest compliment. I doubt he ever knew how he affected his fans.
I have loved the Statler Brothers forever!! Sad that Lew was taken, but, Jimmy Fortune was a Godsend and filled in really well.Good replacement.Still love them and thrilled that Wilson Fairchild are on the scene.
@ben jones I never knew that before. Lew could never be replaced, but Jimmy did the best job he was capable of doing. No one could have done any better.
Don't know why there are so many bashers of Jimmy? I thought he was the ideal replacement for Lew. Lew personally chose him to be his replacement, and Jimmy fit like a glove.
It saddens me to hear Lou de Witt say he did not make his mark on this world. That shows the humility and the character that this man possessed. I grew up listening to The Statler Brothers and lew was my favorite. His voice was absolutely beautiful to the ear!! The artistry and talent you brought to music is a legacy that will live on as long as there are people alive who have heard you, especially in person as I was lucky enough to do back in 1980!!
To the remarkable Lew DeWitt. Some of my first & fondest memories are sitting in my basement as a young child listening to an 8-track of the Statler Bros. I listened to that 8-track day in & day out until one day, time had finally taken it's toll on the old cartridge. Had I known then what I know now, I could have saved it. Anyway, thanks to that early influence I learned how to pick out the different parts very early in life & a few yrs later, I would learn guitar & banjo & start down a path toward professional music. Around the age of 10 or so, I found someone with a two cassette collection of Statler songs which I borrowed & made a myself a copy of. Many, many nights of my early teenage life would be spent going to sleep listening to those tapes. They helped me get through a lot of tough times in my early teenage life. There was just something about all those songs that made me feel better about life. During my high school yrs, I would end up in choir for more vocal training & also ended up learning the basics of mandolin & upright bass on my own. All the while, I never lost my love for the Statler's music & began searching far & wide for the album that I listened to as a small child in the basement. All I could remember was the B&W picture of the women in old time dresses on the front. Luckily, it was the only album they made with a front cover like that. It was around this time when I wouldn't actually learn the full names of all the Statler Bros. & probably when I learned of your (Lew's) passing. I knew all their first names. They had after all, introduced themselves to me in the song "How To Be A Country Star". Mr. DeWitt, after you left, the group just wasn't the same. I mean no disrespect toward Jimmy Fortune. He is an exceptionally talented singer & song writer, but I don't enjoy most of the Statler music with him. Lew could never be replaced, but Jimmy did the best job he was capable of doing & no one could have done any better. In my opinion Jimmy was just too young vocally for the Statler's seasoned sound & didn't blend well with them. On the song Elizabeth, there's a much different story to be told, but for the most part, my hat hangs on the pre-82 side of Statler music. Mr. DeWitt, I was born in 1982, so your impact on me was after you had left the group & even more so by the time you had passed. I never knew you, but through your voice & music I sincerely love you & with tears blurring my vision, I consider you as dear as any family member or friend I've ever had in my life. I'll meet you in heaven & we'll pick & sing some together up there!!!!!!! In response to your comment about making your mark, I'd like to say that you made the ultimate mark with your life. You opened up your soul & let ppl look inside through your music. In doing that, you made ppl love you whom you've never known!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That voice!!! He left a huge mark on the world. He certainly has impacted my life for the better. His beautiful powerful tenor voice brings me to tears, moves me to awe, and brings me to praising God. I very well know im not the only one. Mr. DeWitt you left a much bigger mark than you know, and your absence a huge hole.
they did both appear on Hee Haw. Lew was singing with the Statlers while Jimmy played guitar in the band. then Lew realized he HAD to quit and Jimmy took over permanently. Prior, he had been a temporary fill in (they thought).
@cooter kevinfan726 is correct. There is an episode available on video that clearly shows Jimmy playing guitar for the Statlers on an episode of HeeHaw. It was after Jimmy had temporarily filled in for Lew and then Lew came back to the group briefly.
@cooter I believe we're both trying to say the same thing, just wording it differently. Here is the time sequence: 1.) Lew felt he needed to take time off for health reasons. 2.) Lew saw Jimmy singing at a ski resort in Virginia. 3.) Lew recommended Jimmy to the group as a temporary replacement. 4.) Jimmy came to The Statlers. 5.) After some time, Lew chose to try coming back to the group. 6.) At some time during Lew's brief return, The Statlers had an appearance on Hee Haw, during which Jimmy played guitar on the program with them. It's available out there on videotape. I have a copy, but I don't have copyright authorization to post it. 7.) When it became clear that Lew's health continued to deteriorate, he retired permanently, and The Statlers brought Jimmy back as a permanent member.
Thank you for this posting.... I remember well, that very sad day back on Aug. 15th, 1990 when Lew was "called home". I must say, in reading many of the comments & replies below (and elsewhere in the seemingly never ending & ridiculous "Lew vs Jimmy" debates).... that there is both a lot of loyalty to Lew, as well as... a seeming void of common sense in a number of statements made.... in "defense" of Lew. Let us not forget that it was Lew, who rather firmly suggested to Don, Harold & Phil... that Jimmy should be his replacement.... because Lew knew him, both professionally and personally and knew that Jimmy would be the right "fit". To say things like... "they never sounded the same after Lew" or, "That was the end of the Statler Bros...." is ridiculous. It would have been no different, if it would have been Don, Phil or Harold that had to be replaced with someone else due to health issues..... or, with any other harmony quartet.... and the change in one voice, obviously changes the overall harmony, and in Jimmy's case... it most certainly was Not for the worse. Yes, Lew was an Incredible Tenor / singer & song writer.... but, so was (and still is) Jimmy... and I seriously doubt that Any of the other three would ever tell you that they made a wrong choice in Jimmy.... they never would have achieved the longevity, success and global fan following that they did if Jimmy was not the tremendously gifted and talented singer that he was & is in his own rite and contributed what he did to the overall harmony that was, the Statler Brothers. They interviewed and auditioned a number of prospective tenors from around the region and country before making a decision.... for Jimmy, even though it was initially just going to be a "temporary" fill in, but of course we all know what followed and the rest is history. It is Not, in Any way, shape or form... diminishing Lew, in saying that Jimmy was what Lew knew all along.... his perfect replacement, Not "just" as a singer, but in his overall personality to get along with the other three (to truly be able to "blend in" and Not just in song), his ability to have good interaction with their fans..... and above all, in his faith, personal character, integrity and his stable, long term relationship with his wife..... as well as for his well known singing and song writing abilities. There were many, Many contributing factors & variables that needed be taken into consideration before making the choice that they did.... and it was a Wise choice that they made in Jimmy for what turned out to be for the long term.... and one that Lew, knew in his heart all along.... was the right one. They were Both, extremely & exceedingly talented and gifted in their own rite and the "world" was very blessed to have their individual talents shared with all and each of us, especially in conjunction with Don, Harold & Phil and the Wonderful harmony that they all brought, together in song.... whether it was with Lew or Jimmy. We have All... been very blessed with the incredible songs, emotions and memories of and with...the Statler Brothers, and their well deserved retirement... as sad as it was to happen, truly was an end to a great era in music, of which this country and the "world" will Never, Ever be blessed with again.
@2Stroke Diesel Power "an end to a great era in music, of which this country and the "world" will Never, Ever be blessed with again" That's a very strong statement & with the void of actual talent in most of the music industry, I would be inclined to somewhat agree, but to say "never" might be taking it to the extreme. I prefer the sound of the Statlers better with Lew, but that's not to take anything away from the extreme talent of Jimmy Fortune. NO ONE could have done a better job trying to do the impossible. Jimmy stepped in & did the absolute best he could possibly do!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I often wonder what was going through his head the very first time he ever stepped out on stage with them & into Lew's spot. I can't even imagine what kind of feeling or pressure that must have been. Most people would have never been able to handle that. I'm glad he pushed through it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Well said. Sadly Lew's health prevented him from continuing with the Statlers and he knew it was best for the group to step aside. Certainly not an easy decision but one he made with humility. Lew was taken from us far too soon, but The Lord needed him in Heaven.
What an amazing voice he had! I recently "rediscovered" the Statlers and Lew DeWitt is the one I wish I could have known! I bet he was a great guy, too!
I wish some people didn't grow old, stop singing or die. I miss the original Statler Brothers lineup, as good as Jimmy is. And good he is. God bless and keep you by his side, Lew. You left us way too soon. Country Music and Gospel Music have a big hole left by the retirement of the Statler Brothers. I have been a fan for over 40 years. I still haven't come to grips with their retirement. Long may they run.
It's remarkable that Lew DeWitt felt he didn't leave a mark. His tenor voice was, in my opinion, THE signature sound of the Statler Brothers. As great as Jimmy Fortune is, Lou's final chorus on "Bed of Roses" is unique in recorded music.
I always preferred Lew DeWitt over Jimmy Fortune, however I think Jimmy did a fantastic job singing lead on "Elizabeth". It was his best song ever, I think. He nailed it.
LoveClassicMusic0205...... Jimmy should have "nailed it"... he wrote it... and many other of their hits over the years. Lets not forget, that it was Lew who suggested Jimmy to Harold, Don & Phil to be his replacement, because of his voice and his personality which Lew (from knowing Jimmy) "knew" would be a great "fit" with the other three.... which they did, but only after interviewing & auditioning a number of other tenor singers from around the country as well.
I rem watching the Statler Bros on TV when I was young , my father was a HUGE fan , and yrs later I had the absolute pleasure to meet his son Denver . One of the nicest , most sincere men , not to mention the absolute best guitar player ( i know is subjective) but Denver had grown up with these legends in his house ! Denver Dewitt is the most talented player Ive ever heard or seen . Im proud to call him and his sweet girl Melody my friends . Thanks for this video . Rest well Mr Lew Dewitt , we see you one day .
He said he never felt he made his mark ... but oh, he really did! For so long, he has been my favorite...as much as I like and admire Jimmy, Lew is still THE one!
The one ability that Jimmy has that Lew did not have, is the ability to hit that super high note, and hold it for a super long time. Lew was never able to hold that Super high note very long. He had no problem hitting it, but just could not hold it for any length of time.
Hank Montgomery Yes. It was in March of 1982 during his 6 month leave of absence. They had 7 of the 10 songs recorded for their "The Legend Goes On" album and he was feeling strong enough to go to Nashville to record the last 3 songs. The last of the 3 was "Life's Railway to Heaven". I just read about it in a new book by Don Reid called "The Music of the Statler Brothers". He goes through each song they ever recorded and tells a little something about each one. In the book, he quotes the very same lines you did.
A legend. Too bad he was cursed with those health problems for most of his life. I'll bet he never imagined Flowers On The Wall would be the song that launched the Statlers carrier.
@GooglFascists Totally agree. When I view my DVDs I sit up straight to watch and hear Lew. What a shame, but I'm glad we had him and his talent while we could.
I love both Lew, and Jimmy, both have/had great tenor voices, and song writing talents, but there is one distinct talent that Jimmy has that Lew never had, and that is Jimmy'amazing ability to take a super high note, and stand there, and hold it for what seems like an eternity, and he makes it look so easy. Lew never had that capability only because of his Stomach Disorder with the Chrons Disease. Both had equal Strengths, and Weaknesses that can never ever be duplicated by anyone else.
Man, this guy was a legend with the Statler Brothers. When I heard the Statler's at Dayton, Ohio's Memorial Hall concert Lew's high harmony and guitar were a big part of the show. He was a great performer and so were the rest of the Statler's. Thank you for posting this. I am touched by this.
Dang Chrones! My friend has it & it's horrible. God Bless the Statlers & long live Lew DeWitt. I always loved his voice in Flowers on the Wall. He made the song fun to listen to with his intuitive accenting.
When I heard of his passing I couldn't believe it when they had their TV show he sang a great song about cowboy's and I've been trying to find it and no luck all I can say is thank God for CDS they'll always be just a disc away.
@mssandy90 Thanks for taking the time to leave a message. Lew DID have one strong, powerful voice alrite. He was a fine guitar picker as well. Did I mention that he was a much better than average pool player ? ! ? I was, however, known to "pick his pocket" when it came to playing Blackjack. :) Ahhh, the good ol' days.
LOU YOUR A BEAUTIFUL SOUL AND YOU HAD A BEAUTIFUL VOICE....MY BROTHER HAS THE SAME DISEASE AND MY SON AND I CELIAC.... WE KNOW YOUR PAIN AND HOPE YOU HAVE FOUND PEACE IN THE ARMS OF THE LORD...GOD BLESS
Lew suffered a lot health wise through no fault of his own. He was dealt a bad health hand, but handled it as best he could. It's sad that it caused him to quit the Statler Brothers and cut his life short. He was an immense talent and wrote one of the most iconic songs in music history. He certainly left his mark on the world, I'm happy that he's no longer suffering.
I love the Statlers, before and after. Lew's passing was a sad time indeed, but the music is still good and always will be. They are one of the best groups in country music and always will be.
What Lew had to say about Jimmy was pure class. Jimmy is over the top talented, but that endorsement from Lew and the fact that Lew picked Jimmy out himself just shows the great character of the man.
I never felt like I had said to the world what I wanted to say. BAM he hit the nail on the head. For many that's the one thing they feel the need to do.
y'all have lost your minds or have no ear for music, not to take away from Lee, but Jimmy has an over the top monster voice that blows away anyone else, they couldn't have found a more perfect fit, there are good singers and Lee was one of them, respectively he or no one can even compare to Jimmy, truly amazing talent, people just have a hard time accepting change. I get that but come on open your ears and give the credit that's deserved
perry clemons.... and it was Lew (not "Lee") who strongly suggested Jimmy to the others, to be his replacement... they knew each other and Lew knew from knowing Don, Harold & Phil so well.... that Jimmy was right match for the other three in every way, which... as it turned out... he was. They did interview & audition a number of other tenors from around the country, though.... after Jimmy's first interview and audition with them.... before "settling" on Jimmy. Lew just knew, that Jimmy was "right" for them.
He didn't try to replace Lew, he made his own place, with his own style, still good though. And the way the Statlers sang the almighty's praises Lew must be at peace.
@@johnharris7751 That was the whole beauty of it. He really didn't try to replace Lew because he respected him so much. I prefer Lew's blend better, but NO ONE could have done a better job than Jimmy did at an impossible task. Ppl forget all the hits that Jimmy penned for the group. Lew himself said in the video that Jimmy was a "Shot in the arm" for the Statlers & I think he was right. Jimmy's being there pushed them & probably kept them going longer than they would have if Lew had been able to continue.
GooglFascists..... of course they didn't and it would have been no different if it had been a replacement for Don, Harold or Phil.... The circumstances for the change was horrible, but don't forget one thing.... it was Lew, who rather strongly - suggested Jimmy as his replacement, through knowing Jimmy as well as he did... he just "knew" that Jimmy would be the perfect "fit" with the other three, in every way.... and he was right. Jimmy, also is a Great tenor in his own rite.... and saying so, does Not, in any way... diminish who Lew was to the group, nor personally.... they're Both wonderfully talented, and blessed the world... with their talents.
Charlie Chase said that "Flowers on The Wall" was the groups first #1; wrong! Their first #1 didn't come until 1978 with "Do You Know You Are My Sunshine".
EricEbac22 Sorry, but I am another listener from way back who lived the era of their beginning, and "Flowers" was it. Lew wrote the song, and, I believe, Jimmy was around for the other.
Plagued Lew all his adult life. He nearly died years before in Oklahoma City while on tour. He would drink bottles of Pepto Bismol trying to find relief.
Hard to compare the two voices really. Reality hit and they needed a new tenor. I'm just disappointed that so many of their best songs had lower chart performance and the #1s imo were just not as good.
I loved the Statlers and I particularly loved Lew. It was he who wrote the clever "Flowers on the Wall". While I also loved Jimmy's tenor, my own personal preference is for Lew's sweet, soft, violin-like timbre. I remember when Lew died and I am sorry he had to suffer from Chrone's. I have just learned of Statler bass vocalist Harold Reid's passing yesterday and I am also saddened by that. Thus, I am spending some time today, listening to old Statler Brothers songs and loving Lew's and Harold's contribution. Thanks for the beautiful work, Lew!
I've been a fan since the early 1970's when I was very young. I think anyone could relate to their songs. I saw them 3 times at the Indiana State Fair in the late 1980's after Lew DeWitt had retired. They were really good and seemed to want to make sure the people got their money's worth. I dont know how anyone would not enjoy their music.
How sad Lew thought he didn’t get to say what he wanted. I grew up listening to them thanks to my Daddy…..the amazing sound that came outta Lew’s mouth seems to just fall out effortlessly! He continues to be my very favorite tenor and his fantastic voice brings tears to my eyes! He may not have said what he felt like he wanted, but he truly touched my life with his amazing voice! RIP Lew!
I agree
Lew was the best tenor ever. He certainly made his mark on the world. He was one of a kind and glad I was a fan during a few years he was still singing. Thanks for the post.
Lew had perhaps the sweetest, most poignant tenor voice I've ever heard in ANY genre of music. Its tone sends shivers up my spine, gives me goosebumps on my arms, and plucks at my heartstrings like no other voice ever has or ever will. This is not hyperbole; it's the sincere truth. His voice was that of an angel, and I thank God that He shared Lew's voice with us for the time He did. Gone but NEVER forgotten and never replicated. RIP Lew DeWitt 1939-1990.
TakersMissy - could not agree more. Thanks for taking a moment to leave your comments.
@@unkaswine Lew was born in 1938, not '39. The writer was thinking of Phil and the recently deceased Harold.
very very true he had a great voice poor jimmy could not match it
@@athole1954 I don't know why everyone's so taken in by Lew's voice? To me, there's nothing extraordinary about it.
Judy lees wife paid my brother to shit up when he called her grandma
Well.....Lew you did make a mark on the world you are still loved by your many fans, quality never goes out of style....God Bless RIP.
Well stated!!
2:32
I agree
I love Lew. You can ALWAYS hear his glorious tenor voice in the songs. R.I.P. Lew
Thank you Dennis for posting. I saw Lew with the Statler Brothers back in 1967 and enjoyed an incredible evening with the young lady who soon became my wife. Flowers on the Wall was their introduction to fame, they understood the need for quality harmony and personal presentation, most importantly they understood the need for a song to tell a compelling story.Thank you Lew for your top class work and the joy you gave all your fans. I regret that your work caused you the stress which led to your untimely death. We will meet again in God's glorious kingdom.
Buddyroe Ginocchio
We miss you Lew. You did make a great impact by writing and performing with the Greatest Country Music group ever. I love your music.
lew you made your mark many times over....i have always loved the statlers and felt a big void when you left the group ....rest in sweet peace.
Listened to the Statler brothers all my life, and it is very hard to say which is best between Lew DeWitt and Jimmy Fortune, because both are great in their own right. Listening for so long though, I have to agree with the poster who stated that Lew was the greatest tenor ever. He definitely left the world with memories of one of the most beautiful voices ever. He is definitely unforgettable.
You said a lot to a kid like me Lew. You and the Statlers gave some great childhood memories sir. R.I.P. 🎶🎤
A very, very fine man, awsome songwriter and musician, and just a wonderful personality. This man made the Statler Brothers.
R.I.P Lew we still remember you an you did leave a mark for other entertainers to follow !
One word to describe Lew Dewitt: unique. In an industry flooded with so-called singers, it's the greatest compliment. I doubt he ever knew how he affected his fans.
I have loved the Statler Brothers forever!! Sad that Lew was taken, but, Jimmy Fortune was a Godsend and filled in really well.Good replacement.Still love them and thrilled that Wilson Fairchild are on the scene.
@ben jones I never knew that before. Lew could never be replaced, but Jimmy did the best job he was capable of doing. No one could have done any better.
Don't know why there are so many bashers of Jimmy? I thought he was the ideal replacement for Lew. Lew personally chose him to be his replacement, and Jimmy fit like a glove.
It saddens me to hear Lou de Witt say he did not make his mark on this world. That shows the humility and the character that this man possessed. I grew up listening to The Statler Brothers and lew was my favorite. His voice was absolutely beautiful to the ear!! The artistry and talent you brought to music is a legacy that will live on as long as there are people alive who have heard you, especially in person as I was lucky enough to do back in 1980!!
I still miss his beautiful voice. Thank you for sharing.
To the remarkable Lew DeWitt. Some of my first & fondest memories are sitting in my basement as a young child listening to an 8-track of the Statler Bros. I listened to that 8-track day in & day out until one day, time had finally taken it's toll on the old cartridge. Had I known then what I know now, I could have saved it. Anyway, thanks to that early influence I learned how to pick out the different parts very early in life & a few yrs later, I would learn guitar & banjo & start down a path toward professional music. Around the age of 10 or so, I found someone with a two cassette collection of Statler songs which I borrowed & made a myself a copy of. Many, many nights of my early teenage life would be spent going to sleep listening to those tapes. They helped me get through a lot of tough times in my early teenage life. There was just something about all those songs that made me feel better about life. During my high school yrs, I would end up in choir for more vocal training & also ended up learning the basics of mandolin & upright bass on my own. All the while, I never lost my love for the Statler's music & began searching far & wide for the album that I listened to as a small child in the basement. All I could remember was the B&W picture of the women in old time dresses on the front. Luckily, it was the only album they made with a front cover like that. It was around this time when I wouldn't actually learn the full names of all the Statler Bros. & probably when I learned of your (Lew's) passing. I knew all their first names. They had after all, introduced themselves to me in the song "How To Be A Country Star". Mr. DeWitt, after you left, the group just wasn't the same. I mean no disrespect toward Jimmy Fortune. He is an exceptionally talented singer & song writer, but I don't enjoy most of the Statler music with him. Lew could never be replaced, but Jimmy did the best job he was capable of doing & no one could have done any better. In my opinion Jimmy was just too young vocally for the Statler's seasoned sound & didn't blend well with them. On the song Elizabeth, there's a much different story to be told, but for the most part, my hat hangs on the pre-82 side of Statler music. Mr. DeWitt, I was born in 1982, so your impact on me was after you had left the group & even more so by the time you had passed. I never knew you, but through your voice & music I sincerely love you & with tears blurring my vision, I consider you as dear as any family member or friend I've ever had in my life. I'll meet you in heaven & we'll pick & sing some together up there!!!!!!! In response to your comment about making your mark, I'd like to say that you made the ultimate mark with your life. You opened up your soul & let ppl look inside through your music. In doing that, you made ppl love you whom you've never known!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
OH Lew, everyone loved you. And then you gave us Jimmy Thank you and God bless
That voice!!! He left a huge mark on the world. He certainly has impacted my life for the better. His beautiful powerful tenor voice brings me to tears, moves me to awe, and brings me to praising God. I very well know im not the only one. Mr. DeWitt you left a much bigger mark than you know, and your absence a huge hole.
He made a huge mark on the world. Never heard anyone who could sing like Lew, Never will again. :(
I would like to have seen an album with Lew and Jimmy both singing with the guys.
David Dooley OH WOW !! That would have been sensational!!!
they did both appear on Hee Haw. Lew was singing with the Statlers while Jimmy played guitar in the band. then Lew realized he HAD to quit and Jimmy took over permanently. Prior, he had been a temporary fill in (they thought).
@cooter kevinfan726 is correct. There is an episode available on video that clearly shows Jimmy playing guitar for the Statlers on an episode of HeeHaw. It was after Jimmy had temporarily filled in for Lew and then Lew came back to the group briefly.
@cooter I believe we're both trying to say the same thing, just wording it differently. Here is the time sequence:
1.) Lew felt he needed to take time off for health reasons.
2.) Lew saw Jimmy singing at a ski resort in Virginia.
3.) Lew recommended Jimmy to the group as a temporary replacement.
4.) Jimmy came to The Statlers.
5.) After some time, Lew chose to try coming back to the group.
6.) At some time during Lew's brief return, The Statlers had an appearance on Hee Haw, during which Jimmy played guitar on the program with them. It's available out there on videotape. I have a copy, but I don't have copyright authorization to post it.
7.) When it became clear that Lew's health continued to deteriorate, he retired permanently, and The Statlers brought Jimmy back as a permanent member.
Thank you for this posting.... I remember well, that very sad day back on Aug. 15th, 1990 when Lew was "called home". I must say, in reading many of the comments & replies below (and elsewhere in the seemingly never ending & ridiculous "Lew vs Jimmy" debates).... that there is both a lot of loyalty to Lew, as well as... a seeming void of common sense in a number of statements made.... in "defense" of Lew. Let us not forget that it was Lew, who rather firmly suggested to Don, Harold & Phil... that Jimmy should be his replacement.... because Lew knew him, both professionally and personally and knew that Jimmy would be the right "fit".
To say things like... "they never sounded the same after Lew" or, "That was the end of the Statler Bros...." is ridiculous. It would have been no different, if it would have been Don, Phil or Harold that had to be replaced with someone else due to health issues..... or, with any other harmony quartet.... and the change in one voice, obviously changes the overall harmony, and in Jimmy's case... it most certainly was Not for the worse.
Yes, Lew was an Incredible Tenor / singer & song writer.... but, so was (and still is) Jimmy... and I seriously doubt that Any of the other three would ever tell you that they made a wrong choice in Jimmy.... they never would have achieved the longevity, success and global fan following that they did if Jimmy was not the tremendously gifted and talented singer that he was & is in his own rite and contributed what he did to the overall harmony that was, the Statler Brothers.
They interviewed and auditioned a number of prospective tenors from around the region and country before making a decision.... for Jimmy, even though it was initially just going to be a "temporary" fill in, but of course we all know what followed and the rest is history. It is Not, in Any way, shape or form... diminishing Lew, in saying that Jimmy was what Lew knew all along.... his perfect replacement, Not "just" as a singer, but in his overall personality to get along with the other three (to truly be able to "blend in" and Not just in song), his ability to have good interaction with their fans..... and above all, in his faith, personal character, integrity and his stable, long term relationship with his wife..... as well as for his well known singing and song writing abilities.
There were many, Many contributing factors & variables that needed be taken into consideration before making the choice that they did.... and it was a Wise choice that they made in Jimmy for what turned out to be for the long term.... and one that Lew, knew in his heart all along.... was the right one.
They were Both, extremely & exceedingly talented and gifted in their own rite and the "world" was very blessed to have their individual talents shared with all and each of us, especially in conjunction with Don, Harold & Phil and the Wonderful harmony that they all brought, together in song.... whether it was with Lew or Jimmy.
We have All... been very blessed with the incredible songs, emotions and memories of and with...the Statler Brothers, and their well deserved retirement... as sad as it was to happen, truly was an end to a great era in music, of which this country and the "world" will Never, Ever be blessed with again.
@2Stroke Diesel Power "an end to a great era in music, of which this country and the "world" will Never, Ever be blessed with again" That's a very strong statement & with the void of actual talent in most of the music industry, I would be inclined to somewhat agree, but to say "never" might be taking it to the extreme. I prefer the sound of the Statlers better with Lew, but that's not to take anything away from the extreme talent of Jimmy Fortune. NO ONE could have done a better job trying to do the impossible. Jimmy stepped in & did the absolute best he could possibly do!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I often wonder what was going through his head the very first time he ever stepped out on stage with them & into Lew's spot. I can't even imagine what kind of feeling or pressure that must have been. Most people would have never been able to handle that. I'm glad he pushed through it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Well said.
@@Lynn-r8h.... Thank You, Barbara.... I appreciate your saying so, very much. Have a very Blessed... rest of your week. Jim.
Well said. Sadly Lew's health prevented him from continuing with the Statlers and he knew it was best for the group to step aside. Certainly not an easy decision but one he made with humility. Lew was taken from us far too soon, but The Lord needed him in Heaven.
What an amazing voice he had! I recently "rediscovered" the Statlers and Lew DeWitt is the one I wish I could have known! I bet he was a great guy, too!
I wish some people didn't grow old, stop singing or die. I miss the original Statler Brothers lineup, as good as Jimmy is. And good he is. God bless and keep you by his side, Lew. You left us way too soon. Country Music and Gospel Music have a big hole left by the retirement of the Statler Brothers. I have been a fan for over 40 years. I still haven't come to grips with their retirement. Long may they run.
My favorite of all times... I met Lew and he was so sweet and kind. I cried when he died...
Lew was my favorite ! Ive loved The Statler Brothers ever since I was a little girl ! 💞💝💖💟💗💚💛💜💞💞💞💞💞💞
It's remarkable that Lew DeWitt felt he didn't leave a mark. His tenor voice was, in my opinion, THE signature sound of the Statler Brothers. As great as Jimmy Fortune is, Lou's final chorus on "Bed of Roses" is unique in recorded music.
I always preferred Lew DeWitt over Jimmy Fortune, however I think Jimmy did a fantastic job singing lead on "Elizabeth". It was his best song ever, I think. He nailed it.
LoveClassicMusic0205...... Jimmy should have "nailed it"... he wrote it... and many other of their hits over the years. Lets not forget, that it was Lew who suggested Jimmy to Harold, Don & Phil to be his replacement, because of his voice and his personality which Lew (from knowing Jimmy) "knew" would be a great "fit" with the other three.... which they did, but only after interviewing & auditioning a number of other tenor singers from around the country as well.
His voice was so beautiful and unique. I hope he came to know that in the end.
I rem watching the Statler Bros on TV when I was young , my father was a HUGE fan , and yrs later I had the absolute pleasure to meet his son Denver . One of the nicest , most sincere men , not to mention the absolute best guitar player ( i know is subjective) but Denver had grown up with these legends in his house ! Denver Dewitt is the most talented player Ive ever heard or seen . Im proud to call him and his sweet girl Melody my friends . Thanks for this video . Rest well Mr Lew Dewitt , we see you one day .
james1stful - Denver is my nephew.
He said he never felt he made his mark ... but oh, he really did! For so long, he has been my favorite...as much as I like and admire Jimmy, Lew is still THE one!
The one ability that Jimmy has that Lew did not have, is the ability to hit that super high note, and hold it for a super long time. Lew was never able to hold that Super high note very long. He had no problem hitting it, but just could not hold it for any length of time.
We Will Never Forget You Lew !!!
I grew up listening to them with my dad in the 70's
Thanks Lew....Your mark is you gave us The Staler Brothers ...Wow what a mark to leave this world..That was huge..Thanks so much for the memories...
I grew up listening to this group !! Love it !
oh but he said a lot to the world. he was a great singer and a great guitarist. very much missed.
Hop Along - indeed !!
Blessed Saviour guided him.
Till he reached that blissful shore.
Where the angels wait to join him.
In God's praise forevermo-ore.
Hank Montgomery Very interesting that you quoted that particular song as it is the very last song that Lew recorded with the Statler Brothers.
Hank Montgomery Yes. It was in March of 1982 during his 6 month leave of absence. They had 7 of the 10 songs recorded for their "The Legend Goes On" album and he was feeling strong enough to go to Nashville to record the last 3 songs. The last of the 3 was "Life's Railway to Heaven". I just read about it in a new book by Don Reid called "The Music of the Statler Brothers". He goes through each song they ever recorded and tells a little something about each one. In the book, he quotes the very same lines you did.
Don and Lew in that particular song is one of my favorite all time Statler moments--and I have ALL their albums.
Lewis had such a beautiful voice.
Godspeed to you Lew & Harold.🙏💖🙏
loved all of them and specially loved Lews voice.
Yes, absolutely; he was the very best !
A legend. Too bad he was cursed with those health problems for most of his life. I'll bet he never imagined Flowers On The Wall would be the song that launched the Statlers carrier.
He was an incredible gift to humanity. A very sad loss.
@GooglFascists Totally agree. When I view my DVDs I sit up straight to watch and hear Lew. What a shame, but I'm glad we had him and his talent while we could.
I love both Lew, and Jimmy, both have/had great tenor voices, and song writing talents, but there is one distinct talent that Jimmy has that Lew never had, and that is Jimmy'amazing ability to take a super high note, and stand there, and hold it for what seems like an eternity, and he makes it look so easy. Lew never had that capability only because of his Stomach Disorder with the Chrons Disease. Both had equal Strengths, and Weaknesses that can never ever be duplicated by anyone else.
Lew's voice had a unique quality that Jimmy did not have. But both were great song writers.
Man, this guy was a legend with the Statler Brothers. When I heard the Statler's at Dayton, Ohio's Memorial Hall concert Lew's high harmony and guitar were a big part of the show. He was a great performer and so were the rest of the Statler's. Thank you for posting this. I am touched by this.
Charlie Kucharski .....thanks for taking the time to leave a comment, Charlie.
Dang Chrones! My friend has it & it's horrible. God Bless the Statlers & long live Lew DeWitt. I always loved his voice in Flowers on the Wall. He made the song fun to listen to with his intuitive accenting.
I love Lew's voice to this day! I was honored to have seen him at one if his last concerts with the Statlers.
Thanks for sharing. JO (France)
If it weren't for the fact that it's now Spike TV, I'd say they should make an announcement of Harold's death.
When I heard of his passing I couldn't believe it when they had their TV show he sang a great song about cowboy's and I've been trying to find it and no luck all I can say is thank God for CDS they'll always be just a disc away.
@mssandy90
Thanks for taking the time to leave a message. Lew DID have one strong, powerful voice alrite. He was a fine guitar picker as well. Did I mention that he was a much better than average pool player ? ! ? I was, however, known to "pick his pocket" when it came to playing Blackjack. :) Ahhh, the good ol' days.
LOU YOUR A BEAUTIFUL SOUL AND YOU HAD A BEAUTIFUL VOICE....MY BROTHER HAS THE SAME DISEASE AND MY SON AND I CELIAC.... WE KNOW YOUR PAIN AND HOPE YOU HAVE FOUND PEACE IN THE ARMS OF THE LORD...GOD BLESS
Lew suffered a lot health wise through no fault of his own. He was dealt a bad health hand, but handled it as best he could. It's sad that it caused him to quit the Statler Brothers and cut his life short. He was an immense talent and wrote one of the most iconic songs in music history. He certainly left his mark on the world, I'm happy that he's no longer suffering.
What a voice! And what a shame he had to leave. Jimmy was a fine singer but no one could really replace him.
No he couldn't replace Lew however in all fairness, he made his own place and he was hand picked by Lew and had his blessings.
R.I.P. Harold and Lew
God Bless His Soul 🙏 Amen.
Miss you Lew Dewitt
I love the Statlers, before and after. Lew's passing was a sad time indeed, but the music is still good and always will be. They are one of the best groups in country music and always will be.
Susan Driver 9h
Amen to that. We love Lew.
What Lew had to say about Jimmy was pure class. Jimmy is over the top talented, but that endorsement from Lew and the fact that Lew picked Jimmy out himself just shows the great character of the man.
lew was missed and died too soon. He had a unique tenor voice. Today there is help for Chron's (sp?) disease. Jake diekman is a great example.
he passed on my birthday... and here it is my birthday and I saw this on the sidebar.
Lew and now Harold Reid. So sad
alot of people dont know lew found and picked jimmy as a part time replacement thiers a video of jimmy giving lew credit
Statler Brothers to me were never as good without Lew. I mean, for me, personally.
He was my favorite Statler brother...
I never felt like I had said to the world what I wanted to say. BAM he hit the nail on the head. For many that's the one thing they feel the need to do.
Out of loyalty to Lew, I never accepted Jimmy. Respected him and his talents and skills, but never accepted him as a SB.
@cooter doesn't change anything for me.
These guys were good,I love there music.
And a very fine man he is
y'all have lost your minds or have no ear for music, not to take away from Lee, but Jimmy has an over the top monster voice that blows away anyone else, they couldn't have found a more perfect fit, there are good singers and Lee was one of them, respectively he or no one can even compare to Jimmy, truly amazing talent,
people just have a hard time accepting change. I get that but come on open your ears and give the credit that's deserved
Lew not Lee
perry clemons.... and it was Lew (not "Lee") who strongly suggested Jimmy to the others, to be his replacement... they knew each other and Lew knew from knowing Don, Harold & Phil so well.... that Jimmy was right match for the other three in every way, which... as it turned out... he was. They did interview & audition a number of other tenors from around the country, though.... after Jimmy's first interview and audition with them.... before "settling" on Jimmy. Lew just knew, that Jimmy was "right" for them.
While I love Jimmy Fortune, he will never replace Lew's delightful voice. I pray he's resting in peace.
ya, true,! i like Lew better,!! rip Lew,!!
He didn't try to replace Lew, he made his own place, with his own style, still good though. And the way the Statlers sang the almighty's praises Lew must be at peace.
@@johnharris7751 That was the whole beauty of it. He really didn't try to replace Lew because he respected him so much. I prefer Lew's blend better, but NO ONE could have done a better job than Jimmy did at an impossible task. Ppl forget all the hits that Jimmy penned for the group. Lew himself said in the video that Jimmy was a "Shot in the arm" for the Statlers & I think he was right. Jimmy's being there pushed them & probably kept them going longer than they would have if Lew had been able to continue.
I’d love Lou heartbreaking losing him Jimmy Fortune was good but ain’t no one like Lou
Don't know about y'all but to me the Statlers never sounded the
same without Lew.
GooglFascists..... of course they didn't and it would have been no different if it had been a replacement for Don, Harold or Phil.... The circumstances for the change was horrible, but don't forget one thing.... it was Lew, who rather strongly - suggested Jimmy as his replacement, through knowing Jimmy as well as he did... he just "knew" that Jimmy would be the perfect "fit" with the other three, in every way.... and he was right.
Jimmy, also is a Great tenor in his own rite.... and saying so, does Not, in any way... diminish who Lew was to the group, nor personally.... they're Both wonderfully talented, and blessed the world... with their talents.
His voice was the Statlers
Don sang lead on most of their songs but Lew was the unofficial leader of the quartet and the musical director.
so young looking
Charlie Chase said that "Flowers on The Wall" was the groups first #1; wrong! Their first #1 didn't come until 1978 with "Do You Know You Are My Sunshine".
EricEbac22 Sorry, but I am another listener from way back who lived the era of their beginning, and "Flowers" was it. Lew wrote the song, and, I believe, Jimmy was around for the other.
RIP.
Try the CD On My Own
...So sad. I didnt know he has passed...
He had no idea the impact on lives.
RIP Lew
I have Ulcerative Colitis which is very similar. Wouldn’t wish either on my worst enemies
Plagued Lew all his adult life. He nearly died years before in Oklahoma City while on tour. He would drink bottles of Pepto Bismol trying to find relief.
I miss Lew...and I really miss Dan Miller.
Miss Mellie..... forgive my ignorance, but.... who is, or which "Dan Miller" are you referring to? A personal loss to you?? : (
Does anyone know the song he sings at 1:35?
It’s called “slow dance “
They were good but Lew made the group. Just wasn't the same without him.
Love the Statlers
sad,!!
How about the news guy looks like he guy who replaced him
RIP Wichita
Hard to compare the two voices really. Reality hit and they needed a new tenor.
I'm just disappointed that so many of their best songs had lower chart performance and the #1s imo were just not as good.
Wow only in his 50s. He looked 80.
People back then looked older than they were. My theory is because of second hand smoke, which isn't as prevalent today.
@EricEbac22 Like you i assumed he meant #1 in the US but it was #1 in Canada. So Charlie was right, depending on how you look at it.
They say he was 52, then they post
1939- 1990. Someone is not doing their homework
How was he 52 if born in 1939 and passed in 1990?
@cooter Then, he would have been 50.
They got it wrong.
I have crohns
and