Born Ottis Dewey Whitman, Jr., January 20, 1929 in Tampa, Florida; married Geraldine "Jerry" Christ, 1941; children: Byron, Sharon Carlene. Served in the U.S. Navy, 1943-46. Addresses: Home--Currently lives on 40 acre farm near Jacksonville, FL; Record company--Collector's Record Club, GHB Jazz Foundation Building, 1206 Decatur St., New Orleans, LA 70116.

Once dubbed "America's Favorite Folk singer," Slim Whitman was brought to the attention of a new generation of listeners with the 1997 release of Mars Attacks!, director Tim Burton's spoof of the 1950's alien invasion films. In Burton's film, it is Whitman's version of "Indian Love Call" which repels the invading Martians and saves the world from imminent defeat. With more than 103 albums to his credit, a majority now available on CD, Whitman enjoys international popularity in countries such as England, Australia, and Holland. Among his famous fans are Michael Jackson, and George Harrison and Paul McCartney of the Beatles. In the U.S., World War II hero Audie Murphy was a fan, as was Elvis Presley who toured with Whitman at the beginning of his own career. It is therefore surprising that Whitman has not yet been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, which is not to say he has gone unrecognized. Whitman has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and in Holland both a rose and tulip have been named after him. Whitman has sold more than 70 million records worldwide and he continues to play to packed houses and audiences which span nearly three generations.

Ottis Dewey Whitman, Jr. was born January 20, 1929, in Tampa, Florida, where he grew up playing baseball, fishing, and listening to Montana Slim and Jimmie Rodgers, the father of country music. Whitman had a close-knit family, with two brothers and two sisters. At age fifteen Whitman met Geraldine "Jerry" Christ, the preacher's daughter. They fell in love and Whitman married her two years later. After graduating from high school, Whitman took a job in a meat packing plant. He later found work as a shipfitter and boilermaker at a Tampa shipyard.

In 1943, Whitman joined the Navy. He was stationed on the USS Chilton in the South Pacific. It was onboard the Chilton that Whitman found a guitar and began to play. The left-handed Whitman restrung the guitar upside-down. Each week, during happy hour, he entertained the sailors by either boxing or singing. Fifty years after his service, Navy buddies still approached him with recollections of their time onboard the Chilton.

Honorably discharged in 1946, Whitman returned home to Tampa and his job at the shipyard. He also played baseball with the Plant City Berries, a class C team in the Orange Belt League. With his skillful left-handed pitch and a batting average of .360, Whitman helped his team take the pennant in 1947. Friends, however, urged him to pursue his singing career, so in 1948, he gave up baseball and began to sing professionally.

He started out on Florida radio station WDAE, then moved on to WHBO and WFLA until September 1949, when he teamed up with The Lightcrust Doughboys to do a series of programs through the Mutual Network. The programs were then picked up by a Shreveport Louisiana station, KWKH, and incorporated as part of the "Louisiana Hayride." Up to this point, Whitman had a stutter and was very shy; it was Hank Williams who helped him overcome this obstacle.

A happy accident during one of these radio broadcasts would change electric steel guitar playing forever. Hoot Rains, guitarist in Slim's band, overshot a note. The sound was so unique it was incorporated by the band. It became the definitive "shooting arrow" sound heard on all of Slim's subsequent recordings. The pay for these radio shows was minimal--$18 per week--and Slim had to take a second job as a postal worker to make ends meet. Colonel Tom Parker, who would later become famous as Elvis Presley's manager, heard Whitman on WFLA and, in 1948, helped him get signed to RCA. At the beginning of Presley's career, he toured as the opening act for Slim Whitman. Whitman received $500 per show while Elvis Presley received $50.

There are two stories about how Whitman got the nickname "Slim." One has it that the 6'2" Whitman received it in the Navy. The other has it that management changed his name while he was off fishing, totally unbeknownst to Whitman. However he came by the name it stuck, and in 1952 Slim Whitman was signed to Imperial Records, where he recorded "Lovesong of the Waterfall". He remained with Imperial until 1970.

Slim Whitman released his biggest stateside hit, "Indian Love Call" in July of 1952. The song had been his favorite when he was a boy, and his cover version brought him his highest mark ever on the American Country charts--three weeks at number two, and 21 weeks at number three. It also made the Top 10 on the pop charts. In November 1953 Whitman's "North Wind" was number eight for five weeks and paved the way for his January 1954 cover of "Secret Song," first sung by Doris Day.

His success in the U.S. has been marginal compared to his international reception, especially in Great Britian. In May of 1954, Whitman released "Rose Marie". It went straight to number one on the U.K. pop chart where it remained for 11 weeks. The release of "Indian Love Call" and it's B-side single, "China Doll" were also eagerly received and, in 1956, Whitman became the first Country artist ever to play the London Palladium. He is still a big draw in the U.K.; in 1974, 1975, 1978, 1979, and 1980, Slim was named "International Male Vocalist" at The Wembley Festival and, in 1991, Slim and his son Byron headlined at the final Wembley Festival.

Perhaps Whitman's avoidance of drinking and cheating songs confused American audiences and prevented him from achieving the kind of success at home that he had long enjoyed overseas. Or perhaps it was bad timing. Whitman's unusual three octave singing ability and his knack for yodeling may have seen out of place at a time when rock and roll was first making an impact. Whatever the case, it wasn't until 1965, with the release of "More Than Yesterday" that Whitman returned to the limelight. Whitman placed eleven songs on the charts between 1966 and 1969, and in 1970 he was invited back to the U.K. where he played three packed shows. Whitman's longtime label, Imperial, was absorbed by United Artists (UA) in 1970 and Whitman remained on UA until 1974. During his United years, Whitman had hits with "Guess Who", "Something Beautiful (to Remember)", "It's a Sin to Tell a Lie" and "Happy Anniversary," which made it to number 14 on the British pop chart in 1974.

In 1977, Whitman toured Great Britian again, this time with his son, Byron, who had an album out at the time under the moniker Byron Keltgh. Speaking of touring with his son, Whitman has said "He does have his own style, especially on record. On stage we also team up into the two Whitmans, 'The Powerhouse' we call it, with the two high yodels, the two high voices."

In 1979 Whitman released a 20 track television album, All My Best, through Suffolk Marketing. This album went on to sell a record four million copies. Following up on this success, Suffolk released another compilation in 1989, entitled Just For You. Whitman then signed with Cleveland International Records and returned to the top 15 with "When." He recorded two more records with Cleveland: That Silver-haired Daddy of Mine, and Can't Help Falling in Love. Two years later, he recorded Angeline, produced by Bob Montgomery, which contains a duet with Byron Whitman titled "Four Walls." Heartland released Slim Whitman-Best Loved Favorites in 1989 and Progressive Music released 20 Precious Memories, a religious record, in 1991. Both were television records and both were successes. When asked how he'd like to be remembered, Slim said, "As a nice guy with a white hat, you might say. I'd like my son to remember me as a good dad. I'd like the people to remember me as having a good voice and a clean suit."

by Kevin O'Sullivan

Slim Whitman's Career

Appeared in the movie Mars Attacks!, 1997.

Famous Works

Further Reading

Books

Visitor Comments Add a comment…

over 13 years ago

The song Naoim seeks is "My Love Is Growing Stale.

over 13 years ago

I remember a song of Slim's with the lines "It's been so long since I've had a little lovin' I"m drifting like a ship without a sale etc... " Can anyone one tell me the title of the song and is it on YouTube? Thank you, Naomi.

over 14 years ago

WOW!! FANTASTIC NEWS! Slim’s new CD is coming out June 3, 2010 on Rangeland Records #8223613. ... This is his 103rd CD release. This album has been in the works for eight years. His many fans have been wondering if it would actually happen, so it brings us great pleasure to have completed it! It was recorded at Hilltop Studios in Nashville TN. The very cream of Studio Musicians were used (Harold Bradley, Ron Oates, Jimmy Capps, Bob Mater,Jon Kornau, Andy Reiss, and Weldon Myrick). The production is superb and the track "Ragtime Cowboy Joe" features son Byron! We hope you enjoy this album as much as we did making it! 1. Back In The Saddle Again 2. Blue Shadows On The Trail 3. Boots And Saddles 4. Ridin' Down The Arizona Trail 5. Happy Rovin' Cowboy 6. River Of No Return 7. My Little Buckaroo 8. Ragtime Cowboy Joe 9. Twilight On The Trail 10. Empty Saddles in the Corral 11. Happy Trails 12. Golden Lariat Order as many as you can as this will help us see more new Songs from Slim and Byron. I would like to see more ballads and love songs.

over 14 years ago

Slim was born in 1924, not 1929. If he was born in 1929, he would have been 14 when he joined the navy in 1943. No way! Fix your facts!

over 14 years ago

One of the things that we have never done by Slim's request is give out his address. I have been known to forward requests to him during the 25 years of running the Slim Whitman Appreciation Society. Since his Farewell Tour in 2002 we have collectively around the globe allowed Slim his privacy and not bothered him. There is a a concert with Slim and Byron scheduled in a few months here in the states. Details on the Face Book Slim Whitman Appreciation Society group site.

over 14 years ago

Is there an address I can write to Slim, asking for a signed autographed photo of him or him and his son? He is to me, as great a singer as Nelson Eddy. They both give Indian Love Song a depth of their own. Slim, I wish you were just starting your career, so we could enjoy you for another 65' years. Your music has added a sound that is one of a kind. You know that when you can hear a song over, and over again, fifty years later; and you still enjoy listening to it as if were the first time, that is what you call a genius And that's what you are to many of your fans. God Bless You!!

almost 15 years ago

Good News! Our friend Paul Hazell called this afternoon to say that he had a phone call from Slim and Byron. The big news is that he completed the album of Western Songs that he said he was planning on doing. It is scheduled to be released in the near future. Byron plays on the CD, although we don’t know at this time if he sings with his dad on it. Slim said he did a lot of singing on this one with the trade mark falsetto breaks and a few yodels thrown in, so there would be no question that it’s Slim Whitman. The Very Best of Slim Whitman CD is coming out March 21, 2010 and Slim will be doing Radio Interviews in the UK to promote it. Paul said Slim was in very good spirits and was laughing and joking. This is good news and we look forward to the new songs. We understand that he recorded 18 tracks and none are repeats of ones he’s done before. We’ll let you know more details as we get them. Check out our Facebook site Just go into Facebook and do a search for Slim Whitman Appreciation Society

almost 15 years ago

Anybody know how we can get a hold of Kevin O'Sullivan? He wrote the bio above which has many errors which I would like to see corrected. For instance Geraldine Alma Whitman's Maiden name is Crist not Christ.

almost 15 years ago

In Reference to Egbert's question below. It wasn't Slim who sang Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer. Slim has never recorded that song. It was Gene Autry.

almost 15 years ago

Hello all you Slim Whitman fans,,tune in tommorrow at 10am east coast time for a very special show with SLIM WHITMAN on WOLT103.3 fm..If you have a computer log on (www.starlight-shows.com)and press the listen button and you will here an interveiw with Slim and myself, and we will be playing his music...Stay tuned!!! he maybe coming to Spartanburg, South Carolina along with Narvel Felts and Leon Everette in May of 2010...Thanks Again,,,JD.MICALS

almost 15 years ago

Hello, I'm looking for the great song Rudolf the Rednose Raindeer song by Slim. Where can i find this number? I hope you can help me! How is Slim doing it?

almost 15 years ago

Slim Whitman is quite a remarkable man who demonstrates real integrity and committment to the music he associates with. He can sing anything with incredible conviction and sensitivity. I grew up with Slim's music and still have a large collection of his very early recordings on 78rpm. I am also proud to have a large selection of his LP and 45rpm recordings. We saw Slim in Liverpool on his farewell tour 2002. His voice never faulted. This artist/genius should gave gained more recognition in the USA for his most outstanding contribution to music ... especially in the country sector. He has always been a true and honest musician/artist and must now receieve more recognition/appreciation for his musical contributions since the 1940's right up until now. I met him personally when I was 14 and 18 years old. Although I discovered a wider eclectic taste of music in later life - I have never fogotten Slim Whitman and his music. He is still a wonderful vocalist and sensitive musician. All the very best to you Slim! Steve, Liverpool UK.

almost 15 years ago

Byron did do one Cassette that was sold at their concerts titled “Always Byron.” They did a duet LP/CD titled “Magic Moments.”

almost 15 years ago

Enjoyed reading all the comments. We love Slim too. Listening to all of his songs now, copying the records to CDs. Has Slim's son produced an album alone?

about 15 years ago

Slim Whitman has the voice of an angel and the heart of a cowboy. We LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE to hear SLIM!!!!

about 15 years ago

The song was just recently discovered tucked away in the valuts of EMI. Although the music is somewhat over bearing in the chorus it is still a beautiful song. You could just copy them as you listen to it. It is on the Slim Whitman Essentials CD.

about 15 years ago

It is a real shame that Slim has not been inducted into the country music hall of fame,if anyone deserves it it is Slim, more so than some of those that have their names there!I wish there was something that could be done to put this situation right.

about 15 years ago

has anyone the lyrics of the song Here where it all began Thanks Bernie loftus

about 15 years ago

Back in the day when the Slim Whitman Appreciation Society was at it's peak we made a major push to get Slim recognized by the Country Music Hall of Fame. We sent boxes and boxes of signature signed petitions with no results. Slim said he is mentioned in there somewhere. I have discovered after working with Slim over the last 3 decades that most people don't have a clue what a trememdouse talent Slim has. They think he's a country western singer. Those of us in the know...know better..he is a baladeer..a singer of love songs.

about 15 years ago

I have seen a notice on "neighbors go" about trying to get Slim inducted in to the music hall of fame has anyone else seen this? is there anything taking place to try to get Slim inducted into the music hall of fame?

over 15 years ago

Broken Down Merry-go-Around has only been released on 2 of Slim's 100 CD's. The Slim Whitman Collection EMI Gold 2 CD set 2005 England and I'm A Lonely Wanderer Bear Family Records 2002 Germany a 6 CD boxed set. This one is a must for all serious Slim Whitman fans.

over 15 years ago

I have watched a video of Slim on the internet where he is singing a song called "broken down merry-go-round" can anyone tell me if this is on a cd and if so which one,i have never come across this one before!

over 15 years ago

Ive been a Slim Whitman fan for over 50 years and have now collected every song that Slim has recorded. I have over 500 songs on LPs CDs Tapes and on DVDs. Slim is the gratest country singer there ever is. Ive also got all the recordings that Byron has sung.

over 15 years ago

I have just received my" Slim Whitman-The Essential"I agree with Loren the new song"Here Where It All Began"Slim is a little overpowered but it really is a fantastic song and Slim carries it off superbly.I think it should be recorded again with the chorus toned down,then released as a single.So many good songs and sung so well by Slim,really worth having this 3cd set.Liner notes and photos of Slim really good,but still i can not see if Slim has blue or hazel eyes!

over 15 years ago

In reference to EMI’s latest Slim Whitman compilation release “Slim Whitman – The Essential” I must say this 3 CD boxed set is the best Slim Whitman compilation release in years. It has something for everyone including velvety smooth love songs that take your breath away, not to mention the newly discovered songs that were hidden away in the vaults for decades. Also, there are reworked versions of two of his classic yodeling numbers, Chime Bells and Redwing, with even more Yodeling. The information booklet included is a pleasant surprise with a very rare photo of Slim on the cover with that famous Slim Whitman grin, and the liner notes by Paul Hazel are absolutely top notch. If there is one thing I would have liked to have seen done better, it is on the newly discovered song “Here Where It All Began.” In that particular song Slim’s voice is somewhat over-powered (yes that is possible) during the chorus. It is still an incredible song, and I keep going back to it time and time again. I just wish with all the technology that we have today the accompaniment during the chorus would have been toned down a bit. I highly recommend this set, as it is masterfully presented and a must have for Slim’s fans old and new.

over 15 years ago

In the 1980's, the radio stations in Pittsburgh (and all of the college radio stations) put together a concert at the Pittsburgh Arena. It was in reaction to the ubiquitous television advertisements. It was originally to ridicule Slim Whitman, but a really strange thing happened. He sold more seats than the Rolling Stones--it was standing room only. Not only that, but his attitude was bullet-proof and he got all of those College kids to participate in the show. The man is utterly fearless. College students who went to the show had a great time; described it as a once-in-lifetime event. I can't find any write-ups of the event or his appearance on the Johnny Carson show afterwards.

over 15 years ago

I just received slim's 100th CD in the mail today. It's an EMI UK 3 CD set and a must own for all Slim's fans. It has 3 NEW Slim Whitman songs never before released. Also a new version of Red Wing and a better version of Chimebells than the one on the Yodeling LP. Buy this CD set. Slim Whitman The Essentials. The liner notes by Paul Hazell are the best I have ever read. I got mine from Amazon UK.

over 15 years ago

Slim's fab club didn't totally disapear..I just changed the name after 23 years to The Slim Whitman Collectors International. Look here http://www.slimwhitmancollectorsinternational.com/ The song you seek is a duet with his son and on the following one of Slim's 100 CD's:THE LEGENDARY SLIM WHITMAN WITH SON BYRON WHITMAN - TRADITIONAL COUNTRY CCMAC-T762 (USA 1998) RAINDROPS AND TEARDROPS/SINCE YOU WENT AWAY/DARLING, LOVE ME/I WILL LOVE YOU STILL/SOUNDS OF LONESOME/I NEED YOU/CARRIED ON THE SHOULDERS OF THE SHEPHERD/THE MOUNTAINS AND THE VALLEY/RIDING THE RANGE FOR JESUS/WHERE EAGLES CAN'T FLY/SILVER SPURS (NOTE: BYRON SINGS HARMONY ON ALL SONGS EXCEPT "SOUNDS OF LONESOME." ALSO, RELEASED BY TIMA RECORDS IN 1998.)

over 15 years ago

Hi there, I was very disappointed when Slim's Fan Club disappeared. I am endeavouring to collect all the songs he sang and I am just a few short. I think when I copied a list of his songs from your previous site I noted a song called:- Darling Love Me. I have not been able to find any other reference to it. Please could you say if it exists. Many thanks Tony Jackson

over 15 years ago

My dad who has been passed away for some time now was a great Slim Whitman fan, ever since I can remember...... And over many years Slim Whitman had never crossed my mind. And just the other evening I came across the Slim Whitman songs on the youtube, and it sure brought back a lot of wonderful memories for me.Yes! siree that man is one of a kind as he sure can sing a song. God bless you Slim.....

over 15 years ago

I grew up listening to Slim Whitman's music as a child,my mother would always have his records spinning when I would be coming home from school - it was a real treat too,because my mother taught me how to yodel!!I am saddend to know Miss Jerry has passed on now and left us but,I know she is in a far better place than we are!I pray for good and wonderful blessings for the Whitman family and friends at this time.Thankyou Slim & Byron for all of the beautiful music you have shared with us throughout the many years and especially thanks to you'r family members and the late Miss Jerry for sharing you both with the world around her too. God Bless one and all. Thanks The Little Redhead From Kokomo

over 15 years ago

A Tunlip and Daffodil are two of the things Slim had named after him. A newly discovered breed of Wasp, a type of cloth, a sandwhich at a shop in the Keys (Marathon, Florida) to name a few. You can find the daffodils and they can lead you to the tulips here: http://www.colorblends.com/Daffodil/Slim-Whitman/ Also visit The Slim Whitman Collectors International for more information at: slimwhitmancollectorsinternational.com

over 15 years ago

I have been a fan of Slim for many years and heard about a rose? and a tulip named after him.I have tried for a few years to find out where i could buy these but with no success,can any one supply any information.Thanks.

over 15 years ago

When I met my husband on a blind date we got onto the subject of music. I asked him if he had heard of Slim Whitman - the rest they say is history. We will have been married 40 years next year and would love to get a video or dvd as a present for him to remind him of how it all started- can anyone help?

over 15 years ago

HELLO.I AM NOW 70 YRS OLD.MY LATE DEAR FATHER STARTED BUYING SLIMS RECORDS IN THE 1950S.I SOON GOT TO BE A BIG FAN.I HAVE ALL HIS ALBUMS.THE LAST TIME I SAW HIM ON STAGE WAS SOME TIME AGO NOW.THAT NIGHT THE SHOW WAS COMPERED BY GEORGE HAMILTON.BYRON SANG THAT NIGHT.HE WAS VERY GOOD.CAN YOU PLEASE TELL ME THE NAMES OF ANY ALBUMS HE MAY HAVE RECORDED.THANK YOU. YOURS SINCERLY. MICHAEL.

over 15 years ago

My wife of 41 years introduced me to Slim and I have been a fan, just like the rest of you folks, ever since. I am sorry I never got to see him on stage. It would have been a great experience. Our anniversary tradition is to play Slim's "Happy Anniversary" on our day, 4/5/68.

over 15 years ago

you can find "when" on the lp "songs i love to sing" or on cd's "songs you love to hear him sing" and "pure country"

over 15 years ago

The song "When" was written by the same Dutchman who penned "Una Paloma Blanca." His name is Hans Bouwens AKA George Baker. Slim heard this song for the first time over the telephone and decided he would record it. It was Slim's last song to make the Billboard charts in 1980 and it rose to number 14. The LP it is on is titled "Songs I Love To Sing" 1980. For more info etc. on Slim go to slimwhitmancollectorsinternational.com

over 15 years ago

Looking for the song "When" Can'tfind it on Itunes. Any one kno what album Slim recorded it on Thanks

almost 16 years ago

WIFE OF SLIM WHITMAN DIES AT 84 Alma “Jerry” Crist Whitman, wife of the man once known as “America’s Favorite Folksinger,” Slim Whitman, died February 16th at the age of 84. The Whitmans, who were married for 67 years, have lived in Middleburg since 1955 when they moved onto property once owned by Mrs. Whitman’s family. Born in Kansas, Mrs. Whitman moved to Middleburg when she was a year old when her father, the late Rev. A.D. Crist, helped found the Church of the Brethren in the small community of Rideout. In addition to her husband. Mrs. Whitman is survived by a daughter, Sharron Beagle; a son, Byron Whitman; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Church of the Brethren at County Roads 220 and 209 where the funeral will be at 2 p.m. Saturday. Burial will be in Middleburg United Methodist Church Cemetery. contact me at loren.knapp@gmail.com if you would like to have a card forwarded to Slim and family

almost 16 years ago

How is Jerry I heard her health was not so good!I hope slim's health is still good and he knows that we are thinking of him. A life long fan!!

almost 16 years ago

SLIM WHITMAN IS FANTASTIC, EVERY SUNDAY MORNING INDIAN LOVE CALL WOULD BE PLAYED IN THE HOUSE BEFORE MY DAD JETTED OFF FOR HIS USUAL CONSUMPTION OF ALE LOL. JUST RECENTLY MY FATHER BOUGHT SOME DVD`S FROM TIME LIFE, AND SINCE THEN HE HAS BEEN SEARCHING FOR DVD`S OF SLIM WHITMAN, WE ARE IN A REAL DILEMMA HERE AND HAVE SEARCHED HI AND LO TO FIND SOME. CAN ANYONE OUT THERE HELP AT ALL, IF POSSIBLE E-MAIL ME shauncarter0@hotmail.com thank you.

almost 16 years ago

Not only listening to his music today, but also thinking of him while he's celebrating his 85th birthday. (20 january 1924). I hope he's doing well. Congratulations Slim.

almost 16 years ago

The song is "When." By the same Dutch guy that wrote Una Paloma Blanca. Johannes Bouwens A.K.A. George Baker. This was the last song of Slim's to make the charts and it rose to number 14. If you're looking for information and/or Slim Whitman items contact me. I ran Slim's fan club for 23 years.

almost 16 years ago

the first song i ever remember was rose marie when i was about 10 and i still cant get enough of the great man himself heaven must be a wonderful place now imagine harmonizing with jim reeves marty robbins to name but a few HEAVEN

almost 16 years ago

The song is the last one Slim had make the charts written by the same guy who wrote Una Paloma Blanca. His name is Johannes Bouwens AKA George Baker. He is Dutch. The song is titled "When." I have it and all of Slim's 636 songs. Email me if you're looking for anything of Slim's

almost 16 years ago

I've been trying to find a song(i have no title) but I remember some lyrics.. when comes the day I stop searching, maybe it will never be... does anyone know the title? thank you..

almost 16 years ago

I believe you're referring to Slim's I'll walk with God..although those exact lyrics are not in it.

almost 16 years ago

The song you're thinking of is titled "God Will", by Johnny Cash.

almost 16 years ago

I heard a song and dont know if it's one of Slim Whitman or Jim Reeves's songs. Not sure about the words but its something like this.. "God will walk with me when no one else will, God will talk to me... When no one else will walk and no one else will talk.. God Will... Is there someone out there who can help me? Thank you God Bless. Cecilia from Johannesburg South Africa

almost 16 years ago

13th December 2008 Have just found this site and I was very pleased to hear all the favourable comments about Slim Whitman and his unique voice. I would be interested to know the name of the album to which Bubba - the Heavy Metal fan - referred. Does anyone know? Like the contributors I have hundreds of Slim's records, both 78s and albums; having been a fan for over 50 years since first hearing his Rose Marie on BBC Radio when I was a teenager. We were very fortunate in England to have Slim do so many tours here and it was always exciting to see him on stage and have a few words with him after the shows. I have been to theatres where the volume of fans outside has brought traffic to a halt in places like Coventry and Birmingham. His voice IS unique but, unfortunately, we don't hear his records so much on radio; except on the dedicated programmes which cover the 'golden oldies' type of records. Whilst enjoying everything that Slim sings if I had to choose just one recording it would be Blueberry Hill. His notes in this really do reach the stars. For those interested in Slim's biography there is an excellent book titled Mr.Songman -The Slim Whitman Story - by Kenneth L.Gibble. I would think it is still available in the States, it was published in 1982 by The Brethren Press, Elgin, Illinois and I treasure my copy. I shall keep my eye on this site to see if there are any more comments about my all time favourite singer.

almost 16 years ago

I knew Slim and his family when they lived in a small garage apartment in Bossier City, I would like to know whatever happened to his daughter Sharon?

almost 16 years ago

I have listened to slim from the age of 11yrs,and been to his shows here in britain.I think he has the most fantastic voice and wish he was still recording.I wish slim a really long healthy happy retirement.Thankyou slim.

almost 16 years ago

Hello again, Having trouble with my Slim Whitman Collectors International Website. You can email me for information on Slim and Slim Whitman CD's etc. By the way his 97 CD just came out. flash@theriver.com

about 16 years ago

I found errors in the bio above. His name was correct Ottis with 2 T's pronounced Oddis. His birthday is wrong...It's January 20, 1923. His son's middle name is Keith not Keltgh. In addition to the Star on The Walk of Fame he has a Daffodil, Tulip, Newly Discovered Wasp species, pattern of cloth, and a sandwich in the Keys named after him. His 95th CD just came out. For more info on Slim..Google The Slim Whitman Collectors International.

about 16 years ago

Hello Slim, Born in '45, in England, I grew up listening to your songs. I married a handsome GI and emmigrated to the States in 1966. In the late 1980's you were the headliner at the WHO Radio show in Omaha, NE. My pleasure was visiting with you before the show. Your voice, with 3 octaves, is brilliant, and your songs of love will remain a blessed part of the music world. Thank you. Cally

about 16 years ago

Have been crazy about Slim and "Indian Love Call" forever it seems. Good Luck in everything.

about 16 years ago

I would just like to say i have only heard of a few songs by you slim but my uncle god rest his soul was a big fan of you and so i bought your greatest hits to remember him and i see why he was a fan because you have a remarkable voice. shane marriott

about 16 years ago

hello byron, it's been a long time had nine kids put them through school and college didnt have time to write. i used to be your pen pal your dad is my mentor still is now my ids have grown and i have time a technology is beautiful so now we can do by email. i hope you get this. i still love your dad. hope to hear from you soon

about 16 years ago

For many years I have been an avid Slim Whitman fan. I think the first song I ever heard him sing was "Chimebells Are Ringing" but don't see it on any of the lists. Slim you have given my many years of pleasure as I listened to you singing and yodeling and whistleing. Love Song Of The Waterfall is my personal favorite. God Bless you and your family Slim.

about 16 years ago

I hope that perhaps slim sometimes reads these messages because I would like to tell him of my mother. Sheila Kellow from Cornwall U.K. was a massive slim fan all her life and sadly passed away on 20th August 2008. Over the years my mum attended many slim whitman concerts and met the great man on many occassions and has lots of photos taken with him and Byron. Such a fan was mum that at her funeral this week she had requested that we play two specific slim songs- "everybody needs someone to care" and "God be with you" - god bless you mum and god bless Slim for bringing her such happiness over the years through his music. XX

over 16 years ago

I have been the chairman of Slims fanclub in Holland for over 30 years. Every tour in G. Britain we came across to meet him and see his show.Most of the time we went to G. Britian together with 50 members of the SWAS Holland I remember Slim as the best of the very best. I have every song Slim recorded and even more.I have been working for the special man for over 30 years and would he come back, I would be there for him again. Slim.Bod bless you.

over 16 years ago

I remember China Doll when it first came out in 1952, when I was about 5 years old. I couldn't work out what the instrument was that made those high notes, I found out a long time later that it was a steel guitar. I have most of Slim's songs and I believe his voice and singing style can never be duplicated anywhere. I'd love to meet him one day, but since I'm in Australia that doesn't seem likely.

over 16 years ago

I agree, Slim Whitman should be in the Country Music Hall of Fame! And it is such a shame. He is so unique. I've loved his music since I was 6 years old and heard him on the radio. I met him, when he toured with the HeeHaw group, in Amarillo, Texas in 1970's. I had wanted to meet him all my life and got the opportunity to do so. He is a wonderful person and everything a devoted fan could have asked for. It's nearly 40 years later and I still feel the same way. He is a lovely gentleman. If you know me you know he is my favorite singer and the only one I ever wanted to meet.

over 16 years ago

Slim, deserve a place at the Hall of Fame !!!!!!! Why is Slim not a member ? Who can inform me. Maybe we can start a action for a place for Slim. Europe/Australie/South Africa loves Slim and his music, but in his country they forget him. A big shame !!

over 16 years ago

It would be nice to see a picture of Byron as he will be the legacy once his father passes on. SW fans would like to put a face to the other golden voice of the duo.

over 16 years ago

Does anyone know where i can get a copy of Magic Moment by Byron and Slim Whitman

over 16 years ago

I'm a heavy metal fan, but I LOVE Slim Whitman. Slim was probably the most underrated singer in country music history. Someone got me an album of his years ago as a gag and I fell in love with it. Other than Boston's first album, it's probably the most beautifully produced album in my collection. Thanks for all the great music, Slim. Vaya con dios!

over 16 years ago

I remember as a 5/6 year old, seeing Slim Whitman with my dad in what must have been his first concert in Goodwood, Cape Town in 1965/66. Since that concert, although always being one of my dad's favourite singers, he also become my favourite. Long live the music of this fantastic man and singer.

over 16 years ago

I Live 1 1/2 miles from where Slim lives . . Wood Pecker Paradise arched over his driveway . . he has a (5640 sq ft). beautiful home . he's just a regular guy in the neighborhood . . I've had the pleasure of waiting on him and his family when they had lunch or dinner at Famous Amos Restaurant in Orange Park, Florida . . I've seen Slim and his Wife eat at the local McDonalds . . and often chatted with Slim at the Middleburg Fl Post Office . . often telling him, he needed to keep his wood peckers in his own yard . . LOL*~ . . the wood peckers out this way are HUGE and can do some real damage to a pine tree . . .

over 16 years ago

I cannot think of another voice like Slim's. It took a while for the recording techniques and the intrumentation to mature along with Slim at his very best. I recommend you listen to "The Very Best Of...." issued on UAS29888 in the 70's I think. Beautiful!

over 16 years ago

For Kathleen Hewit to compare Slim with Elvis , is just not fair in my opinion! Elvis could not even come close to Slims vocal range. The only one ,and I mean only one, in the history of music that could match or go above Slim's range,was the great Roy Orbison!!

over 16 years ago

I have listened to Slim for the past 45yrs. I have met him twice on his visits to England and I can truthfully say he is one of the best if not the best singer of country music. I have been fortunate to be acquainted with the English secretary of the Slim Whitman Appreciation Society who increased my interest of Slim. It is such a shame that he has stopped recording songs. Like me he is getting on a bit and the body needs to slow down.I believe his voice will be listened to forever

over 16 years ago

First captivated by Slim Whitman as a 10 year old on hearing Number 1 UK hit Rose Marie.Seen him live numerous times over the years and his crystal clear voice and wide range have made him a phenomenonallly beautiful singer. You dont have to like his songs to agree that musically and technically his abilities are unique and that his talent is unlikely ever to be equalled. Slim Whitmans lack of support in his native country is due to a complex rane of factors, but have nothing to do with his wonderful voice as videnced by his massive support in many other countries.He should have been inducted into the Country Music Hall Of Fame decades back and should be honoured there whilst still alive and well at 84 years.

over 16 years ago

I grew up listening to Slim Whitman and have yet to hear someone else match the timbre in his voice and the clarity of soul that goes into his songs. Slim let's hope Byron inherited this timbre in his voice as well and the same soul and substance.

almost 17 years ago

I have only seen Slim in concert 3 times, but they were the happiest times of my life, i can still see Slim an Byron on stage together, what utter bliss, i will never forget those moments, and to meet them both backstage was a delight, thank you Slim and Byron, for being two of the most enjoyable, beutiful voices to listen to in the world.

almost 17 years ago

I've listened to Slim since I was about nine, but only this year have I come to appreciate this fantastic voice. So much I read does not jive with my memories; I remember hearing his records on the radio in West Texas in 1948 or 49, singing Love Call of the Waterfall, and all the bio's say they were recorded in 1952. Anybody else remember? Anybody know any tour info on Byron and/or Slim??? Is there an offical fan club?? Gary Fitts

about 17 years ago

Slim Whitman is the best EVER singer in the world. No one can sing like him. There will never be another Slim, just like there will never be another Elvis..... Slim Whitman has the most phenomenal beautiful voice EVER!