About Don
Early Life and Musical Career
Don Reid began his remarkable journey in Staunton, Virginia, singing alongside his brother and two friends at just fourteen years old. This young group, later known globally as The Statler Brothers, was discovered by Johnny Cash in 1964, quickly achieving fame with their iconic hit “Flowers on the Wall.” For four decades, The Statler Brothers dominated the music scene, winning numerous accolades:
3 Grammy Awards
9 CMA Awards
48 Music City/TNN Awards
13 Gold Albums
8 Platinum Albums
Don served as the principal songwriter for the group, penning over 250 songs recorded by industry giants including Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and Tammy Wynette. His extraordinary talent earned him 18 BMI Writer Awards.
Personal Life
Don resides in Staunton, Virginia with his wife Debbie and their beloved Cocker Spaniel, Lucy. Proud father of two sons—Debo and Langdon—he enjoys close family ties, with both sons following creative paths in music and writing.
Transition to Literature
Following the Statler Brothers’ retirement from touring in 2002, Don turned his storytelling talents to literature. His writing spans from insightful religious reflections to nostalgic memoirs and compelling fiction.
Non-Fiction Works
“Heroes and Outlaws of the Bible” 2002: Don’s first book, offering accessible and humorous insights into significant biblical figures. Widely used in Bible study groups nationwide.
“Sunday Morning Memories” 2004: A humorous and nostalgic look at Southern church life, capturing relatable and entertaining moments from Don’s youth.
“You Know It’s Christmas When” 2005: Co-written with his sons, this delightful collection features holiday reflections, quizzes, and stories ideal for the festive season.
“Random Memories” 2007: Co-authored with brother Harold Reid, this intimate memoir shares the highs and lows of The Statler Brothers’ 40-year career, complete with rare photos and behind-the-scenes stories.
“The Music of The Statler Brothers: An Anthology” 2020: A detailed and personal narrative of every song recorded by the group, offering unprecedented insights into their creative process and experiences.
- “Life Lessons” 2021: A warm, insightful collection of stories and values drawn from Don’s personal journey.
Novels and Fiction
“O Little Town” 2008: Don’s debut novel set in 1958 Virginia, weaving together the lives of residents in a captivating tale of mystery, inspiration, and history during the holiday season.
“One Lane Bridge” 2010: A gripping story set in North Carolina, exploring family struggles, personal crises, and intriguing mysteries that unfold around a country road.
“The Mulligans of Mt. Jefferson” 2012: A sequel to “O Little Town,” this novel follows lifelong friends navigating life’s challenges and mysteries in a small Virginia community.
- “Half & Half” 2015: A unique blend of fiction and memoir, combining fictional stories with true-life vignettes from Don’s personal experiences.
“Piano Days” 2022: A nostalgic and touching narrative about childhood friendships, music, and coming-of-age in 1950s Virginia.
- “Among the Ashes” 2024: A gripping small-town mystery where long-buried secrets rise from the ruins of a 1958 church fire.
Hall of Fame Inductions
In recognition of their influential career, The Statler Brothers were inducted into both the Gospel Music Hall of Fame (2007) and the Country Music Hall of Fame (2008), becoming one of only six acts honored in both prestigious institutions.
Inspirational Speaker
Beyond his writing, Don has inspired countless individuals through his speaking CDs and appearances, delivering heartfelt, scripture-based messages that encourage deeper spiritual engagement and personal growth.