NARVEL FELTS

Biography

Narvel Felts, born Albert Narvel Felts on November 11, 1938, near Keiser, Arkansas, is a celebrated American singer known for his distinctive soaring tenor and high falsetto. Raised in Bernie, Missouri, Felts was a self-taught guitarist who bought his first instrument with money earned from picking cotton. His musical journey began in earnest after being discovered at a high school talent show, which led to his own radio program and early recordings. Encouraged by his peers and local DJs, Felts quickly became a local sensation, performing rockabilly and country music in the 1950s.

Felts' early career was shaped by his time with The Rockets and his recordings for Sun Records, where he was mentored by Roy Orbison and Johnny Cash. Although he enjoyed modest pop success in the 1960s, his breakthrough came in the 1970s with a string of country hits, including "Drift Away" and the soulful "Reconsider Me," which became his signature song and reached number two on the U.S. country charts. Felts' ability to blend rockabilly, country, and soul set him apart, and his heartfelt performances earned him a devoted following. Despite the eventual decline in chart success after the late 1970s, Felts remained an active performer and is recognized as a pioneer in both the rockabilly and country genres.

Felts' legacy is cemented by his induction into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame and his influence on the traditional country and rockabilly scenes. Known affectionately as "Narvel the Marvel," he is remembered for his professionalism, emotional vocal delivery, and enduring contributions to American music.

Fun Facts

• Felts was discovered at a high school talent show after classmates encouraged him to participate, leading to his first radio appearance.
• He bought his first guitar with $15 saved from picking cotton, and it was famously held together with wire and a tobacco can.
• Felts' biggest hit, "Reconsider Me," was the second-biggest country hit of 1975 in the U.S. and reached number one in Canada.
• He is affectionately known as "Narvel the Marvel" by fans and is a member of the Rockabilly Hall of Fame.

Associated Acts

• Narvel Felts & The Rockets

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Roy Orbison - Mentored Felts during his early recording years at Sun Records, influencing his vocal style and career trajectory. (Early Sun Records sessions) [Late 1950s]
• Johnny Cash - Provided guidance and support during Felts' formative years at Sun Records. (Early Sun Records sessions) [Late 1950s]
• Ernest Tubb - Major stylistic influence; Felts grew up listening to Tubb's honky tonk sound. (General influence) [1940s–1950s]
• Hank Snow - Influenced Felts' early musical tastes and country style. (General influence) [1940s–1950s]

Key Collaborators

• The Rockets - Felts was the frontman for this band, recording and performing together. (Mercury Records singles) [1956–1959]
• Narvel Felts Jr. - Felts' son, who toured as the drummer in his father's band until his untimely death. (Live performances and tours) [1970s–1995]
• The Rimshots - UK group that backed Felts during live performances, notably at the Hemsby rock 'n' roll festival. (Live performances) [1997]

Artists Influenced

• Contemporary rockabilly and traditional country artists - Felts' pioneering blend of rockabilly and country has inspired later generations, though specific proteges are not widely documented. (General influence on genre) [1970s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Somebody Hold Me - Studio (Super Songs Narvelized)
2. Somebody Hold Me Until She Passes By
3. Drift Away
4. Reconsider Me
5. Pink And Black Days - Studio (Super Songs Narvelized)
6. Funny How Time Slips Away
7. You Don't Care (Did You Tell Me) (Sun Records Originals: Cry Baby Cry)
8. Bad Moon Rising (Me And Bobby Mcgee)
9. All In the Name of Love
10. Reconsider Me (Narvel Felts)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz

Tags: #rockabilly