Charlie and Ira Louvin were actually born Charles and Lonnie Loudermilk. They changed their name while pursuing a career in gospel music. They enjoyed success in country music beginning in the mid 1950s. Here’s their first number one hit. Recorded in 1956…
After nearly a decade in country music, the Louvin Brothers decided to go their separate ways. Ira struggled through numerous battles with addiction and his brother Charlie had finally had enough. The duo officially split in 1963 and Ira tragically would pass away in an auto accident. Here’s one of their last hits as a duo…
Even after their split, the Louvin Brothers had a major impact on the next generation of country performers leading into the 1970s. Emmylou Harris recorded “If I Could Only Win Your Love” and it became her first hit. Other artists to find success with Louvin Brothers songs include Alison Krauss, James Taylor, and Dolly Parton. Rolling Stone ranked them #4 on their list of greatest duos in music history.
