Noted country and western singer-songwriter, renowned for his striking tall stature and blond locks, hails from the vibrant city of Atlanta, Georgia. This charismatic artist, often cast in films portraying warm-hearted, down-to-earth Southern characters, has been captivating audiences with his music and on-screen presence for decades.
From a young age, Reed's passion for music was evident, as he began writing and singing in high school. His talent did not go unnoticed, and in 1955, he was signed to a three-year contract with Capitol Records. However, Reed's journey took an exciting turn in 1958 when he transitioned to NRC Records, where he had the opportunity to collaborate with notable artists such as Ray Stevens and Joe South. It was during this time that he met his future wife, the talented singer Priscilla Mitchell.
Reed's impressive discography is filled with beloved country and western hits, including the chart-topping singles "She Got The Goldmine (I Got The Shaft)", "Lord, Mr. Ford", "When You're Hot, You're Hot", and "East Bound and Down". His music has left a lasting impact on fans, and his ability to weave memorable stories through song has earned him a special place in the hearts of many.
In addition to his remarkable music career, Reed has also made a name for himself in the world of film. His friendship with the legendary actor Burt Reynolds led to a series of small roles in notable films, including W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings (1975) and Gator (1976). Reed's natural charm and charisma on screen caught the attention of Reynolds, who subsequently cast him in the iconic role of trucker "Cledus Snow" in the 1977 blockbuster Smokey and the Bandit. Reed reprised this role in the sequels Smokey and the Bandit II (1980) and Smokey and the Bandit Part 3 (1983).
In recent years, Reed has continued to appear in various films, including Bat*21 (1988) and The Waterboy (1998). Throughout his illustrious career, Reed has solidified his status as a beloved country and western singer-songwriter, as well as a talented actor with a knack for bringing warmth and humor to the big screen.
