Grand Ole Opry Member Spotlight: Charlie Louvin

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As half of the influential gospel/country duo The Louvin Brothers, Charlie Louvin has influenced generations of musicians and vocalists through the contributions made during his time on the charts. Along with his older brother Ira, Charlie would go on to influence other phenomenal acts like the Everly Brothers during a career that would eventually lead to a spot in the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Background and Early Career

• Charlie Louvin was born July 7, 1927 in Sand Mountain, Alabama, and grew singing and harmonizing with his brothers at they worked side-by-side in the cotton fields. While perfecting their stunning close harmonies, the brothers began singing together on a small radio station out of Chattanooga.
• The Louvin Brothers originally focuses primarily on gospel music, but eventually began to branch out into bluegrass and country styles. More than 20 singles became country music chart successes before the popularity of rock 'n' roll music — and Ira's battle with alcoholism — would force the brothers to split professionally in 1964. In 1965, Ira was tragically killed in an automobile accident, leaving Charlie to perform as a solo artist for more than 40 years.

Grand Ole Opry Induction

• The Louvin Brothers were inducted into the Grand Ole Opry on February 10, 1955. After Ira's death in 1965, Charlie remained a member.

Charlie Louvin at the Opry

• Charlie Louvin continues to make frequent appearances at the Grand Ole Opry. Visit the VME Grand Ole Opry Blog for updated schedules of performers, including Charlie Louvin.

Notable Hits

• "The Family Who Prays"
• "When I Stop Dreaming"
• "I Don't Believe You've Met My Baby"
• "Cash On the Barrelhead"
• "You're Running Wild"
• "If I Could Only Win Your Love"
• "My Baby's Gone"
• "Pitfall"
• "While You're Cheating On Me"

More Information

• See the complete list of current Grand Ole Opry members!