An interview with Benjamin Whitmer about "Satan is Real - the Ballad of the Louvin Brothers" (Igniter Books) by Charlie Louvin with Benjamin Whitmer.The Louvin Brothers are considered to have been the greatest vocal duo in country music history. Ira and Charlie Louvin grew up in poverty on a cotton farm down south. Their father administered frequent beatings. Their mother taught them the old hymns that she loved.
The boys harmonized together, listened to "The Grand Ole Opry" on the radio, and dreamed of one day being stars on that program. This is their story as told by Charlie Louvin to Ben Whitmer.
The Louvin Brothers dissolved their act in 1964. Ira died the following year. Charlie lived just long enough to tell his story to Ben Whitmer. And what a story it is.
They knew everybody; Elvis, Johnny Cash, Roy Acuff, Chet Atkins. They made beautiful music together. This is the story of how they did it. It is also a tale of tragedy, violence, and broken dreams.
Benjamin Whitmer lives in the Denver area. He spent part of his youth in Yellow Springs, Ohio.
