Introduction
In the storied legacy of The Statler Brothers, Some I Wrote, performed live in 1994 on Music City Tonight, shines as a vibrant showcase of their songwriting prowess and gospel-infused country charm. Penned by Don Reid and Harold Reid, this upbeat anthem from their 1978 album Entertainers…On and Off the Record captures the quartet’s authentic storytelling and harmonious brilliance. For listeners who cherish music that blends nostalgia, humor, and heart, this performance offers a warm embrace, resonating with those who value the craft of creating songs that reflect life’s joys and struggles. The live rendition, aired on The Nashville Network (TNN), brings the song’s playful energy to life, cementing the group’s status as country music icons.
From the opening chords, Some I Wrote bursts with a lively melody, driven by crisp acoustic guitar and steady percussion that evoke the free-spirited vibe of a roadhouse jam. The instrumentation, enriched with subtle piano and the group’s signature four-part harmony, creates a rich soundscape that feels both timeless and inviting. Don Reid’s lead vocals, backed by Harold Reid, Phil Balsley, and Jimmy Fortune, deliver lyrics with wry wit and sincere pride, reflecting on the songs they’ve crafted— “Some I wrote for money, some I wrote for fun / Some I wrote and left alone when the writin’ was done.” This self-aware narrative celebrates the creative process, making the song a love letter to their musical journey. The Music City Tonight performance, hosted by Crook & Chase, captures the group’s charismatic stage presence, a hallmark of their top-grossing road shows.
What makes Some I Wrote so special is its authentic connection to The Statler Brothers’ roots. Hailing from Staunton, Virginia, the quartet—despite only Don and Harold Reid being brothers—drew on their Appalachian heritage and gospel beginnings as the Four Star Quartet. By 1994, their nearly four-decade career, including eight years with Johnny Cash, had earned them over 550 awards, including multiple CMA Vocal Group of the Year titles. This song, performed during their 30th anniversary tribute on TNN (noted by President Clinton as a favorite), reflects their ability to blend comedy and sentiment, a trait honed through hits like Flowers on the Wall. The live setting amplifies their tight harmonies and genuine camaraderie, qualities that made their TNN series, The Statler Brothers Show, a top-rated program.
Your appreciation for country music storytelling, evident in your interest in artists like Randy Travis and Alan Jackson, aligns perfectly with this track’s narrative depth. As we watch Some I Wrote, we’re invited to celebrate the joy of creation and the legacy of songs that endure. Its infectious rhythm and reflective lyrics offer a timeless appeal, connecting past and present. This cherished gem in the country music canon reminds us that the best songs, as The Statler Brothers prove, are those written from the heart.
