In the clip, Jerry Reed and family perform; hadn’t glimpsed his family before.
Singing is deeply embedded in the DNA of the Reed family, a fact made evident in a heartwarming clip that has stood the test of time. In this special footage, the legendary country singer and guitarist, Jerry Reed, is seen sharing the stage with the most important people in his life – his family. The setting is the familiar backdrop of a television show set, a place where Reed spent a significant portion of his career, but this performance was anything but ordinary. On this occasion, Reed was accompanied by his wife, Priscilla, and their two daughters, Seidina and Lottie, for a rendition of the gospel classic “This Little Light of Mine.”
The moment was made even more memorable by Reed’s introduction of his family members. He started with his wife, Priscilla Mitchell, a country singer in her own right, whom he married in 1959. Then, he introduced their daughters, Seidina Ann Hubbard and Charlotte Elaine (Lottie) Zavala. Lottie, the younger of the two, was just a little girl at the time of this performance. The tenderness of the moment was palpable as Reed affectionately kissed each of his loved ones on the cheek before he began to strum his guitar, setting the stage for their collaborative performance.
As the chords of the guitar filled the air, the Reed family united their voices to sing “This Little Light of Mine.” The harmony they created was nothing short of divine, with each voice adding a unique layer to the song, making it clear that music was a binding force in their household. Seidina took the lead on most of the verses, showcasing a vocal talent that was both powerful and moving. Her performance was complemented by young Lottie, who contributed by echoing the first word of each line, adding a charming innocence to the ensemble.
Throughout the performance, Jerry Reed’s pride in his family was unmistakable. His smile, broad and genuine, never wavered as he watched his family shine, a testament to the joy and fulfillment they brought him. This moment encapsulated the essence of Reed’s life, not just as a musician but as a family man who cherished these intimate moments with his loved ones.
Jerry Reed, born Jerry Reed Hubbard, was an American country music singer, guitarist, and songwriter, as well as an actor. He was known for his unique guitar playing style and a series of hit songs during the 1970s, including “When You’re Hot, You’re Hot,” for which he received the Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance. Reed’s flamboyant personality and storytelling skills made him a beloved figure in the country music scene and beyond.
Reed’s marriage to Priscilla Mitchell was not just a union of hearts but also of musical talents. Priscilla, a respected country singer, and Jerry Reed shared a life filled with music, love, and creativity. Their daughters, Seidina and Lottie, grew up in an environment where music was a constant companion, inevitably influencing their paths in life.
Seidina, in particular, has embraced her musical heritage with grace and talent. In 2015, she paid homage to her father’s legacy with the album “Today Is Mine: A Tribute to My Father,” where she covered songs written and performed by Jerry Reed. This project was more than just an album; it was a heartfelt tribute to the man who had inspired her musical journey from the very beginning.
The Reed family’s rendition of “This Little Light of Mine” stands as a testament to their bond and shared love for music. It’s a reminder of the joy and unity that music can bring to families and audiences alike. While Jerry Reed’s catalogue is filled with unforgettable songs and performances, this particular moment with his family is uniquely poignant, capturing the essence of his spirit not just as a performer, but as a loving father and husband.
For fans of Jerry Reed and country music enthusiasts, this clip is a precious glimpse into the personal world of a music legend. It highlights the importance of family, the joy of shared musical expression, and the timeless appeal of a simple song sung with love and harmony. Watching the Reed family come together in song is an invitation to appreciate the smaller, intimate moments in life that, often, hold the most significant meaning.