Slim Whitman began his singing career in 1948, following his service in the Navy during WWII. He made a name for himself in a career that spanned the next 50 years, many times infusing his talent for yodeling. He never sang of bars and unfaithful lovers as many Country singers have, vowing not to record any song he wouldn't be ashamed to sing in church. He has sold over 100 million records during his career.He and his wife were married when he was 17 and she was 15. No one thought the marriage would last since they were so young, but it lasted 67 years until her passing several years ago. She accompanied him on his many tours, and his fans always held her in high regard.
Michael Jackson listed Slim as one of his top-ten favorite singers, but he was always more popular in England and Europe than in America. His song "Rose Marie" held the record for longest #1 song on the U.K. charts for nearly 40 years. Elvis Presley's first professional gig was as the opening act for Slim Whitman, and comedian Andy Kauffman, a big fan, paid tribute by singing "Rose Marie" on David Letterman's show in the 1980's. One of his songs, "Indian Love Call" was even used in the film "Mars Attacks" -it was the only thing that could kill the Martians (his high pitched falsettos in the song caused the martian's heads to explode!).
In recent years Slim has retired from touring, although apparently he still sings in his church on occasion. He is still going strong at age 86, still living in the Florida home he and his wife moved into in 1955. He is a true American icon.
