The Story of The Statler Brothers and Johnny Cash

In 1963, as Ring of Fire topped the charts, Johnny Cash met a talented group of young singers at the Roanoke Fair in Virginia. Impressed by their harmonies, he invited The Statler Brothers to join his tour with just a handshake. This collaboration lasted over a decade and inspired their song We Got Paid by Cash.

Originally called The Kingsmen, the group changed their name after the success of Louie Louie by another band. During a hotel stay, members Don and Harold Reid, Phil Balsley, and Lew DeWitt noticed a box of Statler tissues—thus becoming The Statler Brothers. Reflecting on the name, Don joked, “We could have been The Kleenex Brothers.”

Their big break came when Cash invited them on tour, launching a successful career. In 1965, they released Flowers on the Wall, a hit that topped both pop and country charts, earned them two Grammys, and even outshone The Beatles and The Supremes. The song found renewed fame in Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction (1994), helping the soundtrack sell over a million copies.

Touring with Cash taught the group invaluable lessons. Don Reid called Cash “a living encyclopedia of music.” Their 12-year partnership helped the Statlers become one of country music’s most beloved groups, releasing over 40 albums and winning numerous awards.

In 1991, they launched a popular variety show on The Nashville Network, showcasing Harold Reid’s comedic talent. One of their most emotional performances was More Than a Name on the Wall, a tribute to soldiers at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

After Lew DeWitt left due to health issues, Jimmy Fortune joined the group and penned the poignant song. He recalled, “Each name on the wall represents a story. They’re more than just names.”

Harold Reid passed away in April 2020, but the legacy of The Statler Brothers continues to resonate with fans worldwide.