Fleming and Townsend

Fleming and Townsend was a musical duo made up of Reece Fleming (1909–1958) and Respers Townsend (1909–1974).[1] They were stars of the new record and radio era, finding success playing the blues and adapting the blue yodels of Jimmie Rodgers in a harmonizing duet.[2][1][3] Fleming and Townsend were from around Covington, Tennessee. Fleming sang lead on the guitar while Townsend preferred harmony, the harmonica, mandolin and kazoo.[1] They got their start playing for dances in different communities before getting on the radio.[1] They landed their first recording deal with Victor in 1930 and their first release sold over 20,000 copies.[1] They also recorded in Atlanta at Egleston Hall in 1932 for Ralph Peer.[4] When their recording career ended they still kept in touch playing at home and going quail hunting and fishing together.[1] Townsend became a farmer again before working with heavy equipment while Fleming continued playing music in The Tennesseans (known later as the Star Rhythm Boys).[1]

While influential at the time their contribution has largely been forgotten.[5]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b c d e f g Russell, Tony (2010-03-15). Country Music Originals: The Legends and the Lost. Oxford University Press. pp. 74–77. ISBN 978-0-19-983990-2.
  2. ^ Wolfe, Charles K. (1996). In close harmony: the story of the Louvin Brothers. American made music series. Jackson: University Press of Mississippi. p. 16. ISBN 978-0-87805-891-4.
  3. ^ Mazor, Barry (2015). Ralph Peer and the making of popular roots music. Internet Archive. Chicago, Illinois : Chicago Review Press. p. 135. ISBN 978-1-61374-021-7.
  4. ^ "Recording by RCA-Victor". The Atlanta Journal. 1932-02-16. p. 26. Retrieved 2026-02-27.
  5. ^ Wadey, Paul. "Obituary: Bill Callahan; Hillbilly yodeller." Independent [London, England], 16 Sept. 2002, p. 16
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