Jerry Reed

Jerry Reed – Life, Music, and Memorable Words

Discover the life and legacy of Jerry Reed — the American country singer, guitar virtuoso, songwriter, and actor. Explore his musical journey, signature songs, wit, and inspiring quotes.

Introduction

Jerry Reed Hubbard (March 20, 1937 – September 1, 2008), professionally known as Jerry Reed, was a uniquely gifted American country musician, guitarist, songwriter, and actor. Smokey and the Bandit as Cledus “Snowman” Snow.

Reed left a mark not only through his hit songs like “When You’re Hot, You’re Hot”, “Amos Moses”, “Guitar Man”, “East Bound and Down”, and “She Got the Goldmine (I Got the Shaft)” but also through his reputation as a musician’s musician — admired among peers for his inventiveness, humor, and integrity.

Early Life and Family

Jerry Reed was born in Atlanta, Georgia, on March 20, 1937, to Robert and Cynthia Hubbard.

From an early age, Reed gravitated toward music. He recalled saying as a child, “I am gonna be a star. I’m gonna go to Nashville and be a star.”

By the time he was in high school, Reed was songwriting, performing, and experimenting with blending country, rockabilly, and blues.

Career and Musical Achievements

Early Breakthroughs & Songwriting

Reed’s first recording contract came around age 18, when producer Bill Lowery signed him to cut “If the Good Lord’s Willing and the Creek Don’t Rise.” “That’s All You Gotta Do” brought wider recognition.

In 1962, Reed began working as a session musician and songwriter in Nashville, and his song “Hully Gully Guitar” caught attention.

One pivotal moment: when Elvis Presley attempted to record Reed’s “Guitar Man”, Presley couldn’t replicate Reed’s distinctive guitar feel. Eventually, Presley’s producer brought Reed into the session to play guitar, enabling Elvis to capture the same groove.

Peak Years & Hit Songs

Reed’s most commercially and culturally significant period was the late 1960s through the 1970s. Some highlights:

• “When You’re Hot, You’re Hot” (1971) was not only a country hit but also crossed over into pop charts.

• Me & Jerry, a collaborative instrumental record with Chet Atkins, won a Grammy Award for Best Country Instrumental Performance.

• “Amos Moses”, blending country, funk, and Cajun elements, became one of his signature, genre-blurring tracks.

• “East Bound and Down” is famously associated with Smokey and the Bandit. Reed both co-starred in the film and contributed the song, which became an anthem tied to his film persona.

• “She Got the Goldmine (I Got the Shaft)” (1982) became another big hit, resonating with Reed’s wit and ability to turn everyday frustrations into entertaining songs.

Through the years, Reed evolved beyond country boundaries. His guitar style (sometimes called “the claw”) was highly syncopated and inventive — influencing countless players.

Acting and Multimedia Presence

Reed’s personality and charisma led him into film and television. He appeared in more than a dozen movies. Some notable roles:

• Smokey and the Bandit (1977) as “Snowman” – arguably his signature acting role.

• He reprised that role in Smokey and the Bandit II and Part 3.

• W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings and Gator are among other film credits.

• In later years, he played Coach Red Beaulieu in The Waterboy (1998), a memorable final film role.

He also hosted a variety show, The Jerry Reed Show, though it had a relatively short run.

Historical Context & Influence

• Reed emerged in an era when country music was evolving — blending with rock, pop, and blues. His eclecticism allowed him to transcend pure country categorization.

• His guitar techniques and rhythmic approaches contributed to the expansion of what country guitar could do — pushing it toward more expressive, syncopated styles.

• He stood as a bridge between traditional country, rockabilly, and more modern musical explorations, inspiring guitarists and songwriters across genres.

• His crossover into film, and the pairing of his songs with his on-screen persona, contributed to the popular culture penetration of country artists during the 1970s and 1980s.

Personality and Creative Philosophy

Jerry Reed was known for humor, humility, and a strong work ethic. He often infused wit into his songs—even those with serious or emotional themes.

He had a pragmatic and self-aware streak, captured in remarks like:

“When people ask me what my motivation is, I have a simple answer: money.”

He viewed music as foundational:

“You can have music and it will stand alone by itself, but you can’t have a movie without it.”

He also expressed gratitude and devotion to the craft:

“I have spent over 60 years bent over a guitar and to know that I wrote 70 compositions that masters have recorded, that makes me feel so good and full, and proud and thankful to the good Lord.”

Despite success, Reed remained grounded, often speaking of working hard, keeping faith, and being grateful for his daily opportunities.

Famous Quotes of Jerry Reed

Here are a selection of quotes attributed to him:

• “When you’re hot your hot, when you’re not your not.”

• “Pray for intestinal fortitude, work hard, and keep the faith. Oh, and pray for good luck, you’re gonna need it.”

• “She Got The Gold Mine, I Got the Shaft.”

• “Music is the most powerful thing on this earth, and it’s hard to be angry when you are listening to music.”

• “I got my first guitar at age of 7 and never laid it down. Momma taught me G, C, and D. I was off to the races son!”

• “I used to get on a stove wood pile at 5-6 years old … and I was a star.”

• “I used to watch people like Richard Burton and Mel Gibson and think, ‘I could never do that.’”

These capture his humor, humility, love of music, and pathos as an artist.

Lessons from Jerry Reed

1. Master your craft deeply
   Reed’s decades of dedication to guitar and composing laid the foundation for his versatility and longevity.

2. Blend genres and break boundaries
   His willingness to mix styles—country, blues, funk, etc.—helped him stay fresh and relevant.

3. Don’t fear humor or everyday life
   His songs often turned mundane frustrations or stories into compelling narratives—with wit and empathy.

4. Be authentic
   Reed seldom dressed up who he was; his image, performances, and songwriting felt honest and grounded.

5. Seize cross-media opportunities
   His success in acting and film roles amplified his musical identity and widened his audience.

Later Life and Death

Jerry Reed remained active throughout his life, performing, recording, and occasionally acting.

After his passing, his legacy has continued: he was inducted posthumously into the Country Music Hall of Fame (announced in 2017) and revered by guitarists, songwriters, and fans for his creativity and spirit.

Conclusion

Jerry Reed was more than a country singer—he was a boundary-pushing guitarist, clever songwriter, and cultural figure who bridged music and film. His commitment to craft, humor, and personal authenticity gives his story depth beyond the hits. His music continues to be played, studied, and celebrated across genres and generations.