Slim Lehart
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
June 25, 1935
Slim Lehart | |
|---|---|
| Also known as | The Wheeling Cat |
| Born | Richard E. Hartley June 25, 1935 Viola, West Virginia, U.S. |
| Died | August 5, 2023 (aged 88) Wheeling, West Virginia, U.S. |
| Genres | |
| Occupations | Singer, musician, entertainer |
| Instruments | Voice, guitar, mandolin |
| Years active | 1965–2017 |
Richard Edmond Hartley (June 25, 1935 – August 5, 2023), mostly known by his stage names Slim Lehart or "The Wheeling Cat,"[1] was an American country music singer and entertainer.[2] Lehart is best known for his tenure as a member of the original Wheeling Jamboree (WWVA), the second oldest country music radio broadcast in the United States. Lehart first appeared on the Jamboree as a guest in 1965 alongside fellow musicians Charlie Moore and Bill Napier.[3]Up until his death in 2023, he maintained status as a lifetime member of the Jamboree, with a star bearing his name outside of the Capitol Theatre in Wheeling.
Lehart is a nominee for the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame.[4]
Richard Edmond Hartley was born on June 25, 1935,[3] in Viola, West Virginia, south of Wheeling.[further explanation needed][3] He is a native of the rural community of Calis, West Virginia, and grew up there.
Career
Lehart first appeared on the Jamboree as a guest in 1965. His first appearance included backing instrumentals from bluegrass musicians Charlie Moore and Bill Napier.
Lehart continued to make guest appearances until 1970 when he signed on as a cast member.[5]
In 1965, Johnny Cash opened up for him before a show in Nashville.[6]
In 1970, Slim became the first new performer in the Jamboree to be signed to a contract. His other nickname "The Wheeling Cat," came from one of his signature songs.[clarification needed] Lehart soon became one of the most popular regulars of the Jamboree, even being described as the West Virginia version of Elvis Presley.[3]
As a member of the Wheeling Jamboree, Lehart has also performed with musicians like Merle Haggard.[7]
Legacy
On November 24, 2014, Lehart was awarded a star with his name on the Capitol Theatre's Walkway of Stars in Wheeling, which dubbed him a "Lifetime Member" of the Jamboree.[8][5]
On June 25, 2021, Wheeling mayor Glenn Elliott issued a proclamation declaring that April 7, 2021, mark "Slim Lehart Day" in Wheeling.[9] The same proclamation was also issued the following year to celebrate Lehart's legacy.[10]
Discography
Singles and EPs
- "Sunshine In My Soul" (Deneba Records, 1972; written by Jan Crutchfield)[11]
- "Just Before Goodbye" (Deneba Records, 1972; written by Allen Reynolds and J. Surber)[11]
Albums
- The Wheeling Cat (B-W Records, LP, Album)[12]
