Johnny Russell made his first appearance in this world on January 23, 1940. He was a songwriter whose million-selling classics have been recorded by everyone from Dolly Parton to Burl Ives to the Beatles. Johnny was also a great singer and entertainer, with a quick wit and a rapid fire humor that could keep an audience in stitches.

Johnny will be best remembered for writing “Act Naturally” that Buck Owens recorded and turned into a classic hit. Owens’ recording sold over 30 million copies! Another wonderful song written by Johnny Russell was “In A Mansion Stands My Love,” recorded by Jim Reeves.  George Strait took another Russell masterpiece, “Let’s Fall To Pieces Together” to number one in Billboard.

In 1985 Russell became a member of the Grand Ole Opry, fulfilling one of his lifelong goals.  Hal Durham of the Opry, once said, “Johnny consistently delights the Grand Ole Opry audiences with his unique style of singing and comedy.  He is an outstanding showman who carries on our tradition of quality entertainment here at the Opry.”

Johnny Russell passed away on July 3rd, 2001 at the age of 61.  He is one talent who will truly be  missed.

Dusty Owens
TCM Radio News