Harrell, Bill

BILL HARRELL

  • From Marion, Virginia. Lived in Davidsonville, Maryland for many years.
  • Began performing in the 1950’s.
  • Formed his band The Virginians in the early 60’s. Recorded several landmark albums for United Artists and Monument Records. This group appeared regularly on the Jimmy Dean’s CBS-TV show.
  • 1966, teamed up with Don Reno and the Tennessee Cutups, singing lead in place of the late Red Smiley.
  • 1977, was involved in a traffic accident that left him with two broken legs. Reno and Harrell officially called it quits in September of that year
  • 1978, re-organized “The Virginians” and continued to perform with this group (with numerous personnel changes over the years) until the mid-90’s when he retired.
  • Was a good friend of the late singer Jim Reeves. Bill wrote several songs for him.
  • Once considered changing his name to “Morgan Atkins” and going country. (Name is a combination of his wife’s and his mother’s maiden names.
  • He performed for presidents Nixon, Reagan and Bush.
  • His son Mitch Harrell performed for many years with the Virginians and became a solo artist.
  • 2008, recieved a “Distinguished Achievement Award” from the IBMA.
  • 2009 (June 24), died after suffering a stroke.

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