Noah talks with Charlie Louvin, longtime Grand Old Opry star, known both for his solo work and his duet singing with his older brother Ira. The Louvins were from Sand Mountain, Alabama, and began as a gospel duo...although they turned to country music in the 1950's. Their harmonies have been an inspiration to many modern country and rock singers, including Emmylou Harris and The Byrds. Ira Louvin died in a car crash in 1965, and Charlie has auditioned many singers over the years, not finding a single one who could sing the high parts of harmonies as well as Ira. Charlie has always used the song "If We Forget God," arranged in the key of E, as a test. Mr. Louvin has a new recording, titled "The Longest Train."
Copyright 1996 NPR
