The heartfelt video captures a special moment on Nita Talley’s 95th birthday, where she shares the spotlight with her son, Gary Talley, and their dear friend, Belinda Lee Leslie, as they deliver a soul-stirring rendition of the classic “Tennessee Waltz,” originally penned by Redd Stewart and Pee Wee King and popularized by Patti Page. The trio’s seamless vocal harmonies imbue the timeless tune with a renewed sense of beauty and nostalgia.
Hailing from Memphis, Tennessee, Gary Talley is a celebrated guitarist and vocalist renowned for his tenure with The Box Tops, where he honed his craft alongside music luminaries like Jerry Butler, Billy Lee Riley, and Hank Ballard. His journey through the music industry led him to Atlanta in 1972, where he collaborated with icons such as Pat Boone, Dobie Gray, and Freda Payne, expanding his musical horizons and leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Born on August 17th, 1947, in Memphis, Gary’s musical legacy extends beyond his performances, as he’s also credited with penning songs recorded by esteemed artists like Keith Whitley and Tammy Wynette. His contributions to the music scene were duly recognized when he was inducted into the Memphis Music Hall of Fame in 2018, a testament to his enduring impact and influence.
Despite the temporary hiatus following the passing of The Box Tops’ lead vocalist Alex Chilton in 2010, Gary remained steadfast in his musical pursuits, eventually reuniting with the band in 2016 alongside original bassist Bill Cunningham. His dedication to his craft is further evidenced by his active presence on YouTube, where he shares his talents with the world, accumulating over 225,000 views across his videos.
In the accompanying clips, Gary, Nita, and Leslie showcase their musical synergy once more, offering heartfelt renditions of beloved classics like “One Day at a Time” and “His Hand in Mine,” as well as a touching cover of “Could I Have This Dance.” Each performance is a testament to the enduring power of music to unite generations and create lasting memories.