Jimmy Fortune

Jimmy Fortune (born Lester James Fortune Sr. on March 11, 1955) is an American country and gospel singer from Nelson County, Virginia. He is best known for his 21-year tenure as the tenor for The Statler Brothers, joining the group in 1982. During his time with the group, he wrote the song "Elizabeth," which became a number-one hit for the quartet. Following the retirement of The Statler Brothers in 2002, Fortune launched a solo career. His solo music is described as a mix of country and Christian influences. He has collaborated extensively with the Gaither Music Group on various gospel-themed projects. His solo catalog includes albums such as *Hits & Hymns*, *God & Country*, and *Jimmy Fortune Sings the Classics*. Fortune’s album *God and Country* won a Dove Award in 2020 for Country Album of the Year. He is a member of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame as a member of The Statler Brothers. His recorded songs include "Far Side Banks Of Jordan," "More Than A Name On A Wall," "Victory In Jesus," and "I Believe."