At 79 years old, Don Reid, the unmistakable voice and principal songwriter of The Statler Brothers, is embracing a new role—not as a performer, but as a steward of history. In an exclusive interview, the legendary artist opened up about his passion for preserving the group’s enduring legacy and what it means to pass that legacy down to future generations.
Known for their tight harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and unmatched storytelling, The Statler Brothers became one of the most beloved country and gospel quartets of all time. From their beginnings as Johnny Cash’s backup singers to their chart-topping hits like “Flowers on the Wall” and “Bed of Rose’s,” their career spanned decades of music that touched millions. And behind many of those timeless lyrics was Don Reid.
Now, years after the group’s retirement and the passing of his brother Harold Reid, Don has shifted his focus to reflection and remembrance. In the interview, he spoke about the responsibility he feels to keep the group’s memory alive—not just for fans, but for his own grandchildren and their peers.
“We were more than just a band,” he said. “We were storytellers. And I think the stories still matter.”
Don has been instrumental in curating archives, writing memoirs, and even helping oversee museum exhibits dedicated to The Statler Brothers. He’s worked closely with country music historians and collectors to ensure their stage costumes, handwritten lyrics, and award-winning albums are preserved and properly documented.
One of his proudest accomplishments? The recent reissue of The Statler Brothers Show episodes, which originally aired on TNN and became a Saturday night tradition in American households. “People remember those shows,” he smiled. “Families watched them together. And when I see younger people discovering us now—it’s a good feeling.”
Don also spoke fondly about the bond between the four members: Harold, Phil Balsley, Lew DeWitt, and later Jimmy Fortune. Though decades have passed, the brotherhood remains central in his heart.
“There’s a lot of love in those old songs. And a lot of laughter too,” he added. “We weren’t trying to be stars. We just wanted to sing songs that meant something.”
For Don, preserving the group’s legacy isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about values. He hopes that by revisiting their music, future generations will find comfort in its sincerity and strength in its messages of faith, family, and small-town life.
As he looks to the future, Don Reid is more committed than ever to ensuring The Statler Brothers are remembered not only as a chart-topping group, but as a symbol of a time when country music spoke straight from the heart.
“It’s not about fame anymore,” Don concluded. “It’s about meaning. And if we can leave behind something meaningful, then we did our job.”
