Jimmy Fortune of the Grand Ole Opry and Formerly of The Statler Brothers
The Lincoln Jamboree is thrilled to again welcome Hall of Fame talent, Jimmy Fortune & His Nashville Super Star Band, after their super-charged, sell-out performance in 2023. And as an extra-special bonus, the opening Act will be The Fabulous French Family Band.
Born in Staunton, Virginia, Jimmy Fortune started singing when he was in high school. After being a member of his school’s choir, he became a professional singer. It took him a while to land his big break in music, though. It was in 1981 when Fortune was discovered by Lew DeWitt of The Statler Brothers. A performance at a ski resort had led their paths to cross, and Fortune became a part of the famed vocal group. When Fortune met DeWitt, who also happened to be from Staunton, DeWitt was suffering from Crohn’s disease. This made it difficult for him to meet the demands of the band’s busy schedule. Impressed with Fortune’s talents the first time he heard his performance, DeWitt recommended him to be his replacement. Fortune auditioned with the group and passed the test.
Soon Jimmy's tenor vocals were being heard with the group on their succeeding recordings. Aside from his vocals, Fortune’s guitar skills were also an essential contribution. To top it all off, he wrote songs which became some of the band’s biggest hits, including “Elizabeth,” “More than a Name on a Wall,” and “Too Much on My Heart.” When the founding members of The Statler Brothers decided to retire the group in 2002, Fortune continued performing. He went on to become a solo artist and released his debut album “When One Door Closes” the following year. This has been followed by a string of albums released in different years.
Fortune has also collaborated with other singers for the making of some of his albums. Among the notable singers that he worked with are gospel legend Bill Gaither, Vince Gill, the Oak Ridge Boys, Ricky Skaggs, and many more. Fortune’s most recent release was the 2017 collection of cover songs, “Sings the Classics”. His versions of some of the classic hits like “Unchained Melody,” “Southern Nights,” and “Take Me Home (Country Road)” comprised the album.
In 2007, Fortune and The Statler Brothers were inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame. The following year, the Country Music Association Hall of Fame added them to its list of honorees.
Call 270-358-3545 for Tickets to the Nov. 9, 2024 Show, Expected to Quickly Sell Out Again.
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