Louvin Brothers

Many people have commented on how the Louvin Brothers, Charlie and Ira, are a link between the pioneering Delmore Brothers and the incredible Everly's in the great Country music history of brother harmonies. The Louvins Brothers came out of Sand Mountain, Alabama, and after short-lived label deals on Apollo, Decca and MGM, landed on Capitol in 1952. Their initial direction seemed to be gospel, but by 1955 they were having Country hits, ignoring modern directions, eschewing drums while emphasizing the traditional high lonesome harmonies and Ira's virtuoso mandolin work. Early hits included "When I Stop Dreaming," "I Don't Believe You've Met My Baby," "Hoping That You're Hoping," and "Cash On The Barrelhead." The Louvin Brothers came to the Grand Ole Opry in 1955 and their career seemed assured for years to come. Ira's extreme temperament, however, helped bring about a breakup in 1963. From time to time a young artist will record an old Louvin Brothers hit and remind us that their music was timeless.