Who Is Lefty Frizzell? Age, Biography and Wiki
Lefty Frizzell was born on March 31, 1928, and passed away on July 19, 1975, at the age of 47. Widely revered as one of the pioneers of country music, he is recognized for his unique vocal style and profound songwriting skills. His music, characterized by its heartfelt lyrics and distinct sound, laid the foundation for many artists who followed in his footsteps. A member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, Frizzell's influence endures, inspiring both fans and aspiring musicians alike.
| Occupation | Country Singer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 31, 1928 |
| Age | 47 Years |
| Birth Place | Corsicana, Texas, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Aries |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 19 July, 1975 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
Lefty Frizzell's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Lefty Frizzell stood at approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighed around 160 pounds during his heyday. His physical presence complemented his powerful performances, which captivated audiences across America.
Frizzell's signature guitar was a 1949 Gibson J-200 (Model SJ-200). Originally built by the Gibson Guitar Corporation, it was retrofitted in early 1951 with a custom neck and pickguard by guitar maker and innovator Paul Bigsby.
In a 2003 interview Merle Haggard recalled, "When I was a teenager, Lefty got me onstage [at the Rainbow Garden in Bakersfield, California] and handed me that guitar. That is the first guitar I played on a professional stage." For many years, the guitar had been on loan to and displayed at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee.
In January 2005, it was returned to the Frizzell family and was later sold via auction by Retrofret, with an asking price of $350,000; Haggard purchased the guitar and it remains a part of his estate.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Lefty Frizzell was married twice. His first marriage was to Alice “Shorty” Frizzell in 1946, and the couple had three children together. Later, he married Mary Frizzell, who remained with him until his untimely passing. Although his professional life often overshadowed his personal affairs, family remained a significant part of his legacy.
In July 1947, the 19-year-old Frizzell was arrested and jailed for having sex with an underage fan. He was charged with statutory rape, convicted the following month, and served six months in the county jail. Filled with guilt, he wrote poems to his wife from his cell; one of them would become his first big record.
Net Worth and Salary
While Lefty Frizzell's exact net worth at the time of his death is difficult to estimate, it is believed to be around $200,000. Adjusted for inflation, this amount reflects both his earnings from record sales and concert performances. His continued popularity ensures that his estate receives royalties, contributing to his enduring financial legacy.
Career, Business and Investments
Lefty Frizzell's career began in the late 1940s and quickly skyrocketed with hits like "If You've Got the Money I've Got the Time" and "Long Black Veil." His innovative blend of honky-tonk and traditional country music earned him several accolades, including multiple Grammy awards. Although he primarily focused on his music career, he also involved himself in various business ventures, such as a record label that sought to promote upcoming artists in the country genre.
By 1951, he had perfected his vocal style and refined his guitar skills. He began working with a core group of Dallas-based studio musicians, including pianist Madge Suttee. In January 1951 he signed a contract that designated Jack Starnes Jr. as his manager.
That contract conflicted with another contract Frizzell had signed, leading Starnes to file a major lawsuit against Frizzell, which was settled out of court a year later. Also in early 1951, Frizzell formed the Western Cherokees, led by Blackie Crawford, and soon they became his primary band for both live and recording sessions.
During this stage of his career, he was in the studio extensively, recording singles. His third single, "I Want to Be With You Always", was No. 1 for 11 weeks in 1951.
Social Network
Even decades after his passing, Lefty Frizzell continues to hold a prominent place in country music circles. His music remains popular on platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Music, where fans share their favorite tracks. Frizzell's legacy is also celebrated through social media fan pages and country music forums that discuss his influence and musical contributions.
Frizell is known as one of the most influential country music vocal stylists of all time. He has been cited as influencing prominent country singers like George Jones, Merle Haggard, Roy Orbison, and Willie Nelson. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1982 as well as the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
In his prime, Frizzell was the first artist to achieve four songs in the top ten on the Country Music Billboard charts at one time. Frizzell went on to have more success, releasing many songs that charted in the Top 10 of the Hot Country Songs charts as an artist and songwriter. After dealing with alcoholism, he died of a stroke at age 47.
Education
Lefty Frizzell's formal education was limited, as he left school during his teenage years to pursue a career in music. His life experiences and innate talent, however, shaped him into one of the most influential songwriters in the industry. Despite lacking formal training, Lefty's unique storytelling ability took his songs to new heights, showcasing that passion and dedication can often transcend traditional educational paths.
In January 1954, Frizzell had another automobile accident, near E.S. Richardson Elementary School in Minden in Webster Parish, Louisiana, through which he passed after leaving the Louisiana Hayride in Shreveport en route to a concert in Mississippi. His Cadillac struck the Nash station wagon parked at the home of its owner, R.
Harmon Drew, Sr., the former city judge and later a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives. Frizzell apologized, said that he hoped to visit Minden again under more favorable circumstances, posted bond, and took a taxicab back to Shreveport, from which he flew to his destination.
In early 1954, he reached the Top 10 for the last time for five years.
