The Enduring Harmony of the Bellamy Brothers: Five Decades of Music, Love, and a Little Bit of Old Hippie Stash
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
For half a century, the Bellamy Brothers, David and Howard, have woven their indelible harmonies into the tapestry of American music. From the infectious pop charm of “Let Your Love Flow” to the chart-topping country swagger of “If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body (Would You Hold It Against Me),” their journey has been a testament to their unique blend of musical talent, brotherly bond, and an unwavering connection with their audience. Now, as they approach the 50th anniversary of their iconic breakthrough hit this fall, the duo continues to resonate with both longtime fans and new listeners, proving that their music, like a fine wine, only gets better with time.
Their latest offering, “Double Dog Dare,” released via Bellamy Brothers Records and Select-O-Hits, stands as a vibrant testament to their enduring artistry. The 12-song collection is a masterclass in contemporary country, infused with the classic Bellamy Brothers sound that has captivated hearts for generations. The album has already garnered critical acclaim, with MusicRow hailing their collaboration with the legendary Gene Watson on “Forever Ain’t Long Enough” as “sublimely country.” Another standout track, “I’d Lie to You For Your Love” featuring the posthumous vocals of the beloved K.T. Oslin, has been lauded by Country Universe as “one of the best records released this year,” a poignant reminder of Oslin’s immense talent and the Bellamys’ ability to craft emotionally resonant music. Adding another layer of richness to the album is a forthcoming video for a duet with the acclaimed vocal group The Isaacs, promising a visual treat that complements their harmonious blend.
The anticipation surrounding the 50th anniversary of “Let Your Love Flow” is palpable. This timeless anthem, with its breezy melody and optimistic lyrics, not only launched the Bellamy Brothers into the stratosphere of pop stardom but continues to hold a special place in the cultural consciousness. Its recent prominent feature in Budweiser’s Super Bowl ad, “First Delivery,” which topped the USA Today Ad Meter, served as a powerful reminder of the song’s enduring appeal and its ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth. This resurgence on such a grand stage underscores the timeless quality of their music and its ability to connect with audiences across generations.
Beyond their consistent musical output and rigorous touring schedule, the Bellamy Brothers have also ventured into the burgeoning world of cannabis with their Trulieve medical marijuana brand, Old Hippie Stash. This unexpected yet fitting endeavor reflects their laid-back persona and their connection to a certain counter-culture spirit. The brand features a variety of strains with names that playfully nod to their musical legacy, such as Reggae Cowboy, Big Love, Afterglow, Rattler, Blue Rodeo, and Bird Dog. This foray into a new industry demonstrates their entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to explore different avenues while staying true to their unique identity.
The journey of David and Howard Bellamy is a story of unwavering dedication to their craft and a deep understanding of their musical partnership. Their path to fame was anything but conventional. They initially carved their niche in the pop music scene of the 1970s before making a significant and successful transition to country music in the 1980s. This pivotal move proved to be groundbreaking, as they paved the way for a wave of successful country music duos that followed, including iconic acts like Brooks & Dunn, Montgomery Gentry, Big & Rich, and The Judds. Their seamless navigation between genres highlights their versatility and their innate ability to connect with diverse audiences.
The anecdote of David Bellamy scribbling the lyrics to “If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body (Would You Hold It Against Me)” on a dinner napkin has become a legendary tale in country music lore. This seemingly spontaneous act of creativity resulted in a song that not only topped the country charts, mirroring the pop success of “Let Your Love Flow,” but also solidified their status as country music mainstays. It was the first in an impressive string of 14 No. 1 singles in the United States alone, a testament to their consistent ability to produce hit after hit.
Their global reach extends far beyond the American music landscape. The Bellamy Brothers hold the distinction of being the only U.S. country music act to have toured in diverse and far-reaching locales such as Dubai, India, Sri Lanka, New Caledonia, and Qatar. This international appeal speaks volumes about the universal language of their music and their ability to connect with fans across cultural boundaries. Their consistent recognition within the country music industry is further underscored by their record-holding number of duo nominations at both the Academy of Country Music (ACM) and the Country Music Association Awards (CMA), along with numerous Grammy Award nominations.
Adding another dimension to their already multifaceted careers, the Bellamy Brothers have opened their lives to television audiences with their reality show, “Honky Tonk Ranch.” This captivating series offers viewers a glimpse into the unpredictable and often humorous realities of balancing a globe-trotting touring schedule with the demands of running their sprawling family ranch in south Florida. Each episode showcases the brothers’ genuine personalities and the unique dynamic of their personal and professional lives. “Honky Tonk Ranch” is executive produced by David Bellamy and brought to life through the vision of Derrek Kupish, CEO/founder of dkupish productions, who directs, shoots, and edits the series, providing an intimate and authentic portrayal of the Bellamys’ world.
As they celebrate over four decades of success and gear up for the golden anniversary of “Let Your Love Flow,” the Bellamy Brothers continue to demonstrate the enduring power of their music and their remarkable journey. Their ability to evolve while staying true to their signature sound, their entrepreneurial spirit, and their willingness to share their lives with their fans have solidified their place as true icons in the music industry. The trail they’ve ridden to fame has indeed been as unique as their music itself, a testament to the enduring harmony of two brothers who have left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions.
Photo Credit: Derrek Kupish