Vintage clip: Jerry Reed with family; hadn’t caught sight of his family before.
Music and talent often run deep in families, and the Reed family is no exception. The legacy of Jerry Reed, an American country music singer, guitarist, and songwriter, extends beyond his own illustrious career to touch the lives and talents of his immediate family members. In a heartwarming display of familial harmony, an undated clip showcases Jerry Reed performing the gospel song “This Little Light of Mine” alongside his wife, Priscilla, and their two daughters, Seidina and Lottie, on the set of a television show.
The clip begins with Reed introducing his family with evident pride. Priscilla Mitchell, whom Reed married in 1959, was already an accomplished country singer in her own right. Their daughters, Seidina Ann Hubbard and Charlotte Elaine “Lottie” Zavala, despite the ten-year age gap, both shared their parents’ musical talents. The family’s rendition of “This Little Light of Mine” is not just a performance but a testament to their collective musical spirit. Jerry Reed, with a guitar in hand, led the melody, while his family’s vocals beautifully complemented the tune.
The performance was particularly notable for the angelic harmony of their voices, which seemed to transcend the television set, evoking a heavenly choir. Seidina, taking the lead on most verses, showcased a remarkable vocal prowess, indicative of her deep-rooted musical heritage. Meanwhile, young Lottie contributed to the performance with the innocent charm only a child could bring, emphasizing the first word of each line with youthful enthusiasm.
Jerry Reed, throughout the performance, was the embodiment of a proud father. His joy was palpable as he witnessed his family’s collective musical talents on display. This moment was not just about the music but also about the strong familial bonds and shared love for the art form.
Jerry Reed’s own career was marked by a unique style that blended country, rockabilly, and folk influences, making him a beloved figure in the music industry. His talents were recognized with several awards and nominations, including Grammy Awards. Beyond his musical prowess, Reed was also known for his acting roles in films such as “Smokey and the Bandit.”
Priscilla Mitchell, Reed’s wife, was a respected country singer who had her own successful career. Her duets with Jerry Reed and other country stars of the time showcased her distinctive voice and contributed to the rich tapestry of country music in the 1960s and 1970s.
Their daughters, Seidina and Lottie, grew up immersed in this musical environment, which undoubtedly influenced their artistic paths. Seidina’s tribute album to her father, “Today Is Mine: A Tribute to My Father,” released in 2015, is a poignant homage to Jerry Reed’s legacy, featuring covers of his songs that capture the spirit of his music while adding her personal touch.
The Reed family’s rendition of “This Little Light of Mine” is more than just a musical performance; it’s a snapshot of a family bound by love, talent, and the timeless appeal of music. While Jerry Reed’s solo performances and recordings are celebrated, this particular clip with his family offers a unique and intimate glimpse into the personal life of a music legend. It’s a reminder that behind the public persona of musicians lies a deeper, more personal world where music serves as both a bonding agent and a familial legacy.
?si=gbw-i-_64uKcLQVe
