He Came To Nashville To Make It Big In Country Music & He Almost Did. It's A Sad Story

[@midimusicforever]

For every big star, there's a 1000 Herbie Howells. And they all are or were talented, and had a story of their own. Amazing to hear one of theirs!

[@DeeloGoodquest]

#Iamherbie

[@Jungleland33]

The same is true for life in general. You have to be in the right place at the right time. It was great to see his enthusiasm when things started going well for him.

[@daveshort6568]

Nashville. Where you have a 1/10,000,000,000,000 chance of being marginally successful. Nashville. Where dreams go to die.

[@DeeloGoodquest]

@@Jungleland33 That's one facet to stardom but not everything. It's more like, you have to be born to the right family at the right time. Or blow the right producer at the right time. lol

[@marksheen4873]

1000% I remember in the fall of 2011, going out with my rugby buddies to app state for a college tour my senior year in high school. One guy says hey we have this buddy he’s a great country singer, we’re going to go to his apartment to hear him play. There I am with 7 other people in a gross apartment listening to some very very nice but fat bearded guy named Luke combs sounding as good as every other guy in Nashville playing his guitar and next thing I know he’s freaking Luke combs. Some guys make it some don’t

[@JWF99]

Who would've thought, all of these years later, here we are on Utube watching, listening and commenting about Herbie, all thanks to David and his crew filming him that day !

[@michaelbradshaw8278]

Good evening, Jim! Hope you've had a great day! I'm chilling and enjoying the evening. I hope tomorrow brings you great things! Have a safe and wonderful night!

[@JWF99]

@@michaelbradshaw8278 Good evening and thank you Mike, we just ordered some take-out for a change, Mex. for us, and pizza's for the kids, we should be getting a small break in the humidity for tomorrow, I'm looking foward to doing some light work on the car 🚗lol hope you have a good one as well my friend ! 👍👍👍

[@luciehanson6250]

There's my mellow friends! What a great clip, great guy, MARVY voice. Sure was rooting for him. Good evening, gents!

[@michaelbradshaw8278]

@@JWF99 So funny! My Granddaughter just cooked us a Mexican meal! It was great. Enchiladas, fried rice, refried beans. & Salad. Yummy! Enjoy your evening!

[@JWF99]

@@luciehanson6250 A Good evening to you Dear Lucie !

[@intensivemanagement]

Herbie Howell you are making us all smile today - kind & talented person is success in my book. Thank you David Hoffman- filmmaker

[@LewyLewy2008]

I think he would have had a following in today’s era of social media. Lots of people like talented performers who are relatable, and who follow their dreams.

[@Bennjammin]

Great voice. Not everyone gets recognized by a producer and has a film about them. Never made it, but not a failure.

[@ritamccartt-kordon283]

Herbie had his fifteen minutes of fame. GOD bless him and his family! He was a gentle soul. They eat you up and spit you out. He was an good songwriter too.

[@GySgt_USMC_Ret.]

I watched this years ago and still get a twinge of homesick. Fair winds and following seas to all

[@michaelbradshaw8278]

"It's a roll of the dice, no matter how talented." - Famous Songwriter Musicians, singers, songwriters come and go, but David Hoffman, Filmmaker's work is a valuable archive that will stand the test of time! RIP Herbie...a helluva lot of folks just watched & listened to you!

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you so much, Michael. David Hoffman filmmaker

[@Av-vd3wk]

Wow! That’s a trip. Amazing, felt like we all got to time travel to see this man. What a bummer that he never ‘made it’ So much talent. He’s got the voice of an angel.

[@JuicySommelier]

I’m from Nashville. There’s always been more talent here than could ever wander through. It’s always been who you know. Session musicians too.

[@mikehenson819]

God bless you David for saving this, and sharing this with us. My heart hurts to think so many have come to my town like this man only to be rejected by the gate keepers. I so very much appreciate what you've done, even for this man.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you Mike. David Hoffman Filmmaker

[@smfvmd]

What a sad story. He was so full of hope, and that was a great audition.

[@annarodriguez9868]

How is it sad? Just because he didn't become famous doesn't mean he didn't have a good life. He gave it his best shot. His wife must have been very supportive and she held down the fort while he chased his dreams. He did go home with a contract so there is that. I'm just curious about what he did for a living and how he raised his kids. I hope he had a good life and never stopped singing.

[@annawhite2720]

What a bittersweet story. At least he had the satisfaction of trying and even getting a contract. I would have liked to see a record from this talented young man! RIP, Herbie🙏💞

[@heartofdixie2]

There is a record out there. I have a copy squirreled away somewhere. I was introduced to him shortly before his demise. We met at a flea market in Augusta GA, his home. Introduced to him by another 60's -70's local musician who'd played in bands with him back before he left to make it big. He was in poor health and was a shadow of the man he had been. The people who knew him in his heyday had nothing but respect for him and said he was one of the best ever. I did not know all this about his trip to Nashville. It makes his sad story even sadder than I knew. Many of his old friends are dead already and the only reason I can write this is because I'm a bit younger than those guys. Fred Reynolds and Ronnie Lane. Lowell Dorn, and Don Mathews I think are all that's left of that old group.

[@annawhite2720]

@@heartofdixie2 Thanks for putting the rest of the story out here. I sure wish for a better ending for him, though 😓

[@johnlipscombdocumentaries]

David, you are a national asset. I'd rather watch your films than anything on TV.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you John. If you're resources allow, I would sure appreciate your using the THANKS button under the video. It is something new that KZbin is beta testing David Hoffman filmmaker

[@luciehanson6250]

@@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker What's up with the thanks button? Enlighten, I'll push your buttons!

[@luciehanson6250]

@@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker Relax, friend! I figured it out! Always looking for someone to hold my hand...

[@vncvenus]

I agree. This is good, educational, thought-provoking, and inspirational content.

[@Redeemer21]

Excellent video. Could be a movie. Your appreciation of history and people is fantastic!

[@sassi9773]

Wow! I love his voice. If he has songs recorded, I would buy them.

[@ccmakaw]

So would I! (and I'm not even a country fan)

[@Birdlives247]

He recorded one single 45. I saw it for sale on discogs.

[@jamesmccallum1248]

Wow. Absolutely, wow. Just incredible. I'm crying with happiness watching this. Thank you David. And let's not forget - someone who taught three thousand people their craft, and no doubt raised a wonderful set of humans themselves, and made a very lucky wife very happy, will always be a success. Herbie Howell. What a star.

[@melchi777]

I love the two songs from herbie we hear in your documentary...62 years later...thanks David for sharing it with us...it is a great hommage to this kind songwriter.

[@cflo1386]

I don't know about anyone else, but I really enjoyed both of his songs in this short documentary it's definitely a hundred times better than today's country music. RIP Herbie

[@Khaled-wb5qf]

A big Hello from one of your channel’s subscribers from Morocco, north Africa ...

[@Fush1234]

Life is a journey. Much of what we achieve in life is ….right place, right time, …luck.

[@jswede1]

Amazing. The story and the footage. Thanks for sharing David.

[@alorae7937]

This is my great uncle Emory thank you so much for showcasing his talent and sweet spirit! He was a music man and incredibly talented! He was a lot of fun to talk to aswell!

[@marksheen4873]

David is the man, thank you for continually posting these videos and bringing the past to life like no entities have ever been able to do. I love studying the greats whether it’s military history or the musical greats but it’s so wild and unique to see the everyday man

[@SueProv]

Happy to see his talent, a little sad he didn't make it. Hope he lived well even though.

[@luciehanson6250]

Again, enriching my life with your offerings, Mr. Hoffman! I loved Herbie! His sideways grin, cute as a bug! His voice, lyrics, love for his wife, and his VW(MINE WAS A 61, also blue). David, you filmed this. I get the willies watching, so poignant. Must be quite the experience reliving the films you share with us. My days are better cuz of Hoffmanland!

[@s_p7231]

Another masterpiece.

[@ShepStevVidEOs]

I would’ve bought his music. I still would if it existed.

[@kristinel6352]

I love how you share the human side of your subjects

[@TheStuport]

I remember awhile back you posted a video on this gentleman Mr. Hoffman. It showed Mr. Howell's desire to "Make It" in the Country Music Scene! Seems that the odds of "Making It" haven't changed over the years and decades. Still a tough door to get "into". One might even believe that Serendipity plays a part once in awhile too! Cheers From Ohio

[@davepowell7168]

You gave Herbie hope, something we all need. Nothing sad about it. If he had music in his head when he passed he was successful in my mind

[@kode3]

Loved watching this again David, thanks

[@RonHelton]

At least he pursued his dream even if he didn't make it. I think most don't even try.

[@billmm4136]

My brother has written good songs and made demos that he sent in. He also traveled to Nashville and met others who wanted to team up with him singing. He had a meeting with someone who told him “to make it as a songwriter, you need to live here in Nashville “ sad but what seems sadder is almost every story of success has the part where he and the woman he loves grow apart and they divorce . So it’s a blessing he didn’t get to be a big success in Nashville, he has a wife and family that love him.

[@1981SBAX]

Most of your videos are before my time, but it’s so much fun watching them with my 12 year old son. We love watching when the world was much happier and simple💕 Thank you for sharing Mr. Hoffman.

[@AshleyMintz]

I live in Nashville! Great video.

[@LifeMostSouthern]

I’m a HUGE country music fan and once had those aspirations myself but I couldn’t stand the thought of being away from family or not being a 100% present mama. I realized that being a mama and family woman was the dream I couldn’t stand to get to the end of my life and not have brought to fruition. I’ve never regretted that decision although sometimes I wonder what would have happened if I had tried but then I look at the two amazing adults I raised and think of the memories and I just don’t care much anymore. The only thing I’ve ever wanted to know was if I was good enough. Although, we all know talent doesn’t have that much to do with it. Especially today. Now days I sing to the dogs and the mini pig, I’m the crazy woman at the red light belting Stand By Your Man 😂. I sing at my local cafe on live music nights now and again and at church on occasion. Singing country music is like medicine to me and honestly that’s really good enough. Now that I am older I can look back and know that I do not have the disposition for the job. I’m a homebody and introverted. Although singing in front of people is about the only rush I like. No roller coasters for me or fast cars, just an audience that’s listening and smiling. I hope that’s how Herby felt. I hope he found joy with his music even within an ordinary life. I’m sure he touched a lot of young people. We have had a lot of artists come Georgia who are members of the Grand Ole Opry. Who knows? Maybe he taught one to play guitar? Herby definitely listened to Marty Robbins in his time and probably Faron Young. His song writing left a lot to be desired, which is not a dig from me since I cannot write songs at all but believe I’ve tried. They all suck. But he was starting out the way most people do which is by emulating the songs they love as they gain experience and collaborate with other people they develop their own style. I’ve never even gotten that far. I feel for him because they got so excited but at least he had the chance to get that excited once. Many people dream and never even get that far. He was good enough but that’s not actually what Nashville is about. There are many, many talented people who play on their back porches. Most communities have places (or at least I hope they do) like The Williamson Music Barn. It’s just what it says it is. A barn in Williamson Georgia where people play country, bluegrass and gospel music on Friday nights and have since 1986/87-ish. I’ll be looking up more country music stuff from you. Thanks for this, it was a great story.

[@shelby8364]

David, is there anywhere else we could find more of his music? He was so good and sweet and genuine, makes me so sad. Reminds me of people like Townes Van Zandt in some way.

[@shelby8364]

all I could find so far kzbin.info/www/bejne/jme0qoF9bpxsock

[@johnsweda2999]

Yes that's a lovely song was written about this visit to Nashville that's ironic

[@HoosierDaddy_]

Everybody has a story, and this moment captured in time is splendid!

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you for your comment. If your resources allow, I would sure appreciate your using the THANKS button under any of my videos including the one you have commented on. It is something new that KZbin is beta testing and would mean a great deal for my continuing efforts. David Hoffman filmmaker

[@Ryansarcade9]

Excellent as usual. Was blown away by the song that appears in the first minute.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you. If your resources allow, I would sure appreciate your using the THANKS button under the video. It is something new that KZbin is beta testing David Hoffman filmmaker

[@Ajay-pj2hv]

He has the personality of a dreamer if I've ever seen one

[@TrentWalker]

Thank you, David. This warmed my heart and broke my heart at the same time. What a great guy and thanks again for sharing this with us.

[@left0verture]

Touching. RIP Herbie. I hope you enjoyed the journey, even though it didn’t end up taking you where you wanted to go.

[@eswatzell44]

I have watched several of your KZbin videos. I especially enjoyed the ones that you did on Bancom Lunsford and the type of music that came out of Western NC. You have a unique talent for capturing the essence of people. Lost John Ray was done in a way that carried respect for him and his talent while showcasing the truth of his situation. I have strong ties to this area of the country and I truly appreciate your work. Thank you for sharing your life's work with us.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you somuch for the comment Ellen. If your resources allow, I would sure appreciate your using the THANKS button under the video. It is something new that KZbin is beta testing David Hoffman filmmaker

[@JavaJohnVideo]

wonderful, very roy orbison. I'd have had him play our joint

[@sweettina2]

I'm so glad he had that day, to feel like he had accomplished something. There's an old saying, "I'd rather to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all", at least he got to chase that dream in the spotlight, if only for a short while. Many never realize that much of their dream, as he did. I've missed you Mr Hoffman! KZbin separates me from things I love, I'll have to fix that. I started a vintage dolly shop and get so busy I forget to take time to relax. I will do more of that, we all need balance. Thank you for your part in helping Herbie have a special moment, you do that so well. Blessings to you & your family 💝🙏

[@JWF99]

"Didn't have the time" Wow ! Imo Shelby missed out bigtime, Herbie was a great talent, it would've been easy to have made alot of money off of him, really wish somebody would've found him a damn stool that day !

[@TheStuport]

You have to wonder How Many Out There have had the preverbal door shut in their face....their talent left unknown to the rest of society forever.

[@JWF99]

@@TheStuport I'm sure there were/are many of them Stu ! But it's a strange thing, because right here where I live there's an unbelievable amount of talent, Southern Ohio/Northern Ky. I've personally witnessed so many people that (based on extreme talent) could've easily became big "Country Music" stars, but the majority of the ones I've met have/had no desire to ever market their music, especially through Nashville !

[@abunchahooey]

Herbie was a nice guy. It’s too bad he never made it big. Hopefully he enjoyed playing music the way he did over the years.

[@bethmendoza1847]

David. Of all your subjects, I truly believe you are the sweetest!

[@davepowell7168]

You are incorrect Beth .He just hasn't gotten round to you yet.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you Beth. David Hoffman

[@raoulduke2625]

Mr Hoffman Sir, As you did with your wonderful clog stepping movie, you have captured my attention with another of your wonderful stories. Just one reason I love your channel so much, you concentrate on the wide, rich , different stories that make our country so wonderful. You are always fair, emphatic, and sensitive to your subjects. At a time we so frequently tear at each other, I wanted to thank you for these stories. Your films 🎥 ROCK.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you Raoul. David Hoffman filmmaker

[@brianna094]

What a sweetheart Herbie was ❤ May he rest in peace

[@alphamsk7370]

Hi David. My name is Siva and I am from India. I really love your documentaries. This one really touched my heart. Glad to hear about this great talented person. Thank you for posting this incredible video.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you Siva for your comment. If your resources allow, I would sure appreciate your using the THANKS button under any of my videos including the one you have commented on. It is something new that KZbin is beta testing and would mean a great deal for my continuing efforts. David Hoffman filmmaker

[@redstreet8012]

It's because he hadn't said anything at all about mama or trains, or trucks, or prison, or getting drunk

[@doughboy8821]

At least he didn’t get run over by a damned old train

[@arthurnorton284]

You're work is a pleasure to watch. Thank you. What a amazing life you've lived.

[@Usul]

According to his obituary, he went on to play for Johnny Hensley and the Red Hots and for The Celestials.

[@Usul]

@@mattmaly5085, That is what his obituary says. It is available online.

[@drasticvoice499]

This was a powerful film.

[@charlesandrews2360]

Mister Hoffman you are an amazing person. Thank you very much

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you Charlie for your comment. If your resources allow, I would sure appreciate your using the THANKS button under any of my videos including the one you have commented on. It is something new that KZbin is beta testing and would mean a great deal for my continuing efforts. David Hoffman filmmaker

[@theresenydahl9531]

Beautiful voice, charming man❤

[@paulgibby6932]

Thanks. Beautiful story. He was such an engaging young man. Loved his one-man-band setup, and he played guitar just fine. Great voice and personality. Liked his songs too. You did a good job, David, putting this one together. Sorry he is gone. I wouldn't say this story is "sad". Nothing sad about that young man.

[@cliffx7]

@David Hoffman, I just wanted to say that you’ve done an incredible job of documenting people striving for their dream! I live in Nashville Tennessee born and raised in 1980. This video meant the world to me! I got to meet a guy that I almost made it in an all rights should’ve made it. Musicians are still coming to Nashville Tennessee every day. I work for a telecommunications company so I am in at least 6000 homes a year around Nashville! There are still a lot of people moving here for their dream!

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you Clifford for your comment. If your resources allow, I would sure appreciate your using the THANKS button under any of my videos including the one you have commented on. It is something new that KZbin is beta testing and would mean a great deal for my continuing efforts. David Hoffman filmmaker

[@james5353]

What a lovely film, and his one man band sound was really great

[@jennifertalley49]

I live in Nashville, and have a daughter at Belmont. Luckily she’s in nursing, but the number of music and theater students are great. Sadly being sweet and kind , or even good isn’t enough. Without the networking and constantly improving, the sweet and kind get overlooked. Nashville is full to the brim w ppl hoping to make it , no matter what it takes. However, being at the right place at the right time , knowing important ppl, networking , and aggressive assertive personality are key factors in those that make it. Herbie seemed like a great guy w lots of talent , but lacked that aggressiveness , as many students find themselves in the same boat as him. Great footage from yrs gone by , and sadly not much has changed since then in the country music industry. I hope Herbie found great joy in still playing, and whatever other life choices he made.

[@ArtyMars]

Yeah well, we’re encouraging narcissists and who maniacs and just generally trash people to rise to the too favouring that kind of behaviour. Talent should speak for itself, lol

[@jennifertalley49]

@Mod. Comp nursing is boring to you. There may come a time you’ll need a nurse. I’m not fluent in John Denver , so I can’t speak about his career or how he got there. I believe I said being at the right place at the right time , and constantly improving were other things that were important. Lots of ppl have talent , and real talent, but it doesn’t guarantee them a successful career.

[@tbone3484]

Such amazing footage!

[@flautalee3090]

He has a wonderful voice. Thank you, David, for making this video and putting it on KZbin.

[@peternicholson2504]

It was good to watch this film. A man who tried to make his dream a reality. He didn't quite achieve commercial success but I hope he was content in life and with his efforts. Thanks for the film. I enjoyed watching and listening to Herbie.

[@roddycoles3213]

At least we have a bit of his music via this documentary. Thanks.

[@robertcronin6603]

Damn...what an intense film...it's sad that he didn't make it...spent 10 years trying and got nothing but older...he needed something to make himself stand apart from the others and maybe if he'd been better looking it may have gotten him further...great flick, Mr Hoffman! 🔥

[@Birdlives247]

it usually takes a distinctive voice. He sounded like Bobby Goldsboro to me, but Goldsboro had more distinct songs. (This fellow was better looking than Bobby Goldsboro.) Remember those songs "Honey" and "Watching Scotty Grow'? Cringe.

[@RWSCOTT]

great voice

[@scottbelcher9026]

Wow… this brings tears… a sweet man and his wife filled with such dreams and happiness… and he had such talent, a beautiful voice and sang such hypnotic songs… How sad he never made it, in the music industry… it seems he had a wonderful wife that stuck with him through it all and I’m sure a beautiful family… Herby made it where it counts, in life…. ❤️

[@AmberPearcy]

Oh I’d love to hear his wife on the other side of the phone! Haha. This is great! His smile is just wonderful. I’m glad he got a contract. I hope he continued to make great music. Go Herbie!

[@ditto6330]

Good Day David This is another Great Video! This Story made me Happy Sad and broken 💔. I could just imagine How hard it would be to make it in Nashville TN. But I truly admire him for at least Trying his Dreams and Praying hard to make it all happen! He was very talented had a beautiful voice Handsome and a personality made of Gold. I'm wondering if it even had/has anything to do with having a wife and children? Because a lot of them during the interview they always ask those questions? In another words How Free can you plan on been? We all know when you have a family already you have very much ties to them and time is limited! Even if Your spouse is very understanding they are or have to be? David you are just so amazing yourself and I know all who and have seen your videos really enjoy them! Keep up your awesome videos! We love you!

[@DaisyLee1963]

What a tribute to Herbie this documentary was! I'm so glad you made it and shared it with us, David. I'm happy I found your channel, I really enjoy your content.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you Daisy Lee for your comment. If your resources allow, I would sure appreciate your using the THANKS button under any of my videos including the one you have commented on. It is something new that KZbin is beta testing and would mean a great deal for my continuing efforts. David Hoffman filmmaker

[@DaisyLee1963]

@@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker where is the "thank you" button? I can't find it.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Right below each video image screen to the right is a button that says the word thanks. Thank you for asking.

[@annarodriguez9868]

Back in the 60s my boyfriend had a really good garage band that got hired for teen dances and weddings. They were very popular and an agent showed up at one of the dances. He offered them a contract and were all set to record in a few weeks, but then my boyfriend got drafted into the army. They never got to record. On the positive side my boyfriend became my husband and after he was out of the army he and his buddies reunited and played from 1970 to 1995. Everyone had a day job and families, but Saturdays were practice day or they had a gig. Our neighbors enjoyed listening to them practice in our garage and would bring their patio chairs to sit in our driveway. The beginning of the movie That Thing You Do reminds me the early days of my husband's band and what it was like back then. It was exciting to be the girlfriend, too! Lol! Good memories!

[@vncvenus]

Herbie Howell sounds like a famous name. And his music and singing and songwriting and playing all those instruments was amazing and impressive. I like the tight shot of the record producer's reaction. The sound quality is very good. Music sounds balanced for a live performance. I would love to hear more of his music. Beautiful film capturing a beautiful moment.

[@derfuher5394]

Definitely one of my favorite videos you ever made

[@DerekOfRivia]

The two songs played in this were fantastic. He was a different person on the microphone. His timid demeanor and already having a family may of been why he was never pushed further.

[@matteli539]

This is awesome. Thank you for sharing

[@EldenSmith]

I remember watching this the first time you shared it David. I enjoyed it then.... and I enjoyed it now. If not for your recording here I don't think there would be anything to hear of Herbie. I still admire his spirit. RIP Herbie.

[@brianarbenz1329]

Thanks David. Fine film. I was a journalist for print media for decades and I often profiled young Nashville-bound dreamers very much like Herbie. I’ve seen exactly his story, and at best culminating in moderate success, not being the next iconic star. Honestly that’s usually better for the Herbie Howells of the world. They can stay attached to real life and their loved ones. And yet still being an artist. No tabloids following them. No pressure to use amphetamines to meet schedules. No constant facelifts demanded. No worrying about falling off the mountain when the peak is passed. What Herbie achieved _was_ making it, in the best way.

[@113dmg9]

Thanks for reposting this.

[@Erinski]

My first thought is it makes me grateful to live in the age of You Tube where undiscovered people can self-publish, and make it via word of mouth. Then I remembered a video I just watched earlier called "Red Dress" by Sarah Brand, and it makes me think "But at what cost?" XD

[@mitchmatthews6713]

I do some songwriting with people in Nashville, and Howell's story still rings true with many people there today. One of his faults was that he had no confidence in himself with just a guitar. He had to set up that whole get-up. He was lucky that Shelby waited around. But sometimes things work out. I think that it's ironic that his name is Herbie and he's driving a Beetle (the Love Bug).

[@mareksicinski3726]

Ironic? And more importantly, why was he lucky?

[@mitchmatthews6713]

@@mareksicinski3726 Just like what Shekby said in the film, a thousand wannabes pass through Nashville each day. Producers like Shelby have established country stars to deal with during the day, Herbie was lucky that Shelby stopped his usual business for his performance. Ralph Emery (the interviewer with Herbie before performing) probably had his hand in it as well, he was influential in Nashville during the 60s and 70s. There were several hundred others that day walking the streets of Nashville that didn't get that break. I've worked in Nashville in various capacities for years, and can tell you from experience that Herbie was lucky to get that far. And haven't you ever seen the Herbie the Love Bug movies from Disney?

[@laurastrobel718]

@@mitchmatthews6713 The Love Bug was one of my favorite movies as a kid☺ My parents had a " sand beige" 67 Beetle, and I called it Herbie.Later on it had a lot of problems. My parents took it to Shirleys Auto Repair on Charlotte Ave quite a few times.They finally bought a new 75 Chevy Malibu. Dad got Herbie fixed and I was able to drive it for fall semester at UT- Martin, but the dumbass guy that drove it back home when he went with me for Thanksgiving break screwed up the transmission becuase he shifted the gears too hard😣 Dad was so pisssd he didn't bother trying to fix it again, and ended up selling it to a couple of guys from California that collected VWs. To quote the title of Ralph Emerys autobiography, Memories Lol☺

[@mustangnawt1]

How sweet was he. What matters is u filmed him on probably his best day ever:) RIP Herbie

[@laurastrobel718]

So that's Shelby Singleton, not what I pictured at all. I grew up in Nashville and still live in the area, so I'm familiar with names of behind the scenes people, in between people, and of course the big names. If you live here, you can't get away from it.This reminds me of Robert Altmans' epic film Nashville, only it's fact not fiction.( I think he must have been inspired by your film David☺) Thanks for intoducing us to Herbie, he played beautifully and had a great voice, good to know he taught guitar. In that regard, his talent did not go to waste🎆🌹

[@michaelbradshaw8278]

Good afternoon, Ms. Laura! Hope all is well with you 'Nashville Cats!'

[@laurastrobel718]

@@michaelbradshaw8278 Hi Michael☺ I've had that song playing in my head since I watched the video earlier. Hope you and yours are well.It's hotter than a matchhead to borrow another phrase from The Lovin Spoonful... They did Summer in the City, I think.🎆🐯

[@michaelbradshaw8278]

@@laurastrobel718 Thank you! Yes, that was the Lovin' Spoonful!!!

[@laurastrobel718]

@@michaelbradshaw8278 Such a versatile group. I liked The Grassroots too, their style was different but it seems like they came out about the same time

[@michaelbradshaw8278]

@@laurastrobel718 I liked them too. My favourite songs were Midnight Confessions and Where Were You When I Needed You? They had a great sound.

[@Chris-oj2jr]

He sounded ten times better than anyone now👍

[@tamarrajames3590]

This is a sad, but all too frequent story…succeeding isn’t just about being talented. Many very fine performers never catch their break. He had a beautiful voice, and clearly played well. If I had to guess why his contract wasn’t his big break, I’d say the big boys felt dubious about his ability to blend into a band they would choose for him, and handle the rigours of the road. Perhaps he was too nice. Big success takes a lot of grooming and flexibility…and some unique quality that is built upon and exaggerated to create the end product. Thank you David for sharing him with us..🖤🇨🇦

[@lordcron]

The road to fame is paved with those who have came and tried to make it in the business. He seemed like a kind and gentle soul. God rest his soul....

[@maxhydekyle2425]

He has a really great voice. Unfortunately your talents are only about half of what makes a star.

[@JR-zm2yu]

Listen closely to the Britney Spears & also Simon B (Olympics) stories.... They're going to wake a great deal of people up. This guy was toooo nice and would not have likely joined the Sat a n i c C ul t.... 💜🙏

[@JR-zm2yu]

@Mike. Hunt. Wake up now, or later - your choice. Shalom💜🙏

[@JR-zm2yu]

@Mike. Hunt. Start with jb is being played by actors wearing a Morpheus mask.... Do your research... Shalom💜🙏

[@goodtimefolkrock]

You need talent, a good marketable look and above all else a absolute willingness to sell your soul and serve the devil .....this man was too sweet to do that....they knew that and therefore passed on him

[@JR-zm2yu]

@@goodtimefolkrock 👍👍🙏

[@justinporterproductions]

You inspire me in ways I can't express through this hand machine. Thank you.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you Justin for your comment. If your resources allow, I would sure appreciate your using the THANKS button under any of my videos including the one you have commented on. It is something new that KZbin is beta testing and would mean a great deal for my continuing efforts. David Hoffman filmmaker

[@luciehanson6250]

Thanks!

[@luciehanson6250]

Figured it out! Trippy! Gotta give our other members ideas about tipping Hoffman, instead of take out coffee. Just thought this a real special post, nice to have another option to support David. BTW, David, do you receive any of this money? Fees, etc. are so frustrating.

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

I believe I receive 70% so thank you so much, Lucie. I am sitting here answering comments and you have made it more worthwhile - as you so often do. David

[@abundantYOUniverse]

Wow this was fantastic. Thanks.

[@AaBb-zj2ld]

he didnt have the "look" poor guy, got shelved by the brass i bet. hes got the voice.

[@Av-vd3wk]

Thank you for filming and sharing this! As mentioned in the video, unfortunately, Herbie passed away in 2015 at the age of 71. Here’s his obituary below 👇

[@Av-vd3wk]

www.findagrave.com/memorial/156272298/emory-herbert-howell

[@Av-vd3wk]

Emory “Herbie” Howell, age 71, of Augusta, passed away Saturday, December 19, 2015, at Kentwood Nursing Facility. He was born September 19, 1944, in Savannah, GA., to the late Joseph E. and Kaziah (Kay) Richards Howell. He was preceded in death by his brother, Larry Howell; a sister, Cynthia H. Rogers and 1 nephew, Michael Howell. He was a lifelong musician, having played country western music like what you would hear at the Grand Ole Opry. He played guitar and vocalist for Johnny Hensley and the Red Hots and for The Celestials. He appeared with Dolly Parton in the movie “Nashville Sound”. He is survived by 1 son, James Emory Howell of Cosby, TN; 1 daughter, Tammy J. Brewer of Mason, GA; 4 grandchildren, Candice, Amber, Brandon and Hope Brewer; his sister, Brenda Ennis of Evans, GA.; his brother, Anthony Howell of Augusta,; 1 uncle, Billy Chalker of Augusta, GA.; 2 nieces, Amy Rogers of North Augusta, SC and Melissa Grant of Evans, GA; 3 nephews, Larry Ennis of Evans, GA., Jody Ennis of Evans, GA., and Alan Rogers of Evans, GA. He is also survived by many great nieces and nephews. The family received friends Wednesday, December 19, 2015, 11 am to 12 Noon at THE POTEET FUNERAL HOME, 3465 Peach Orchard Rd., HWY 25, Augusta, 30906, services followed at 12 Noon at the funeral home with Rev. John Bartlett, officiating. Burial followed in Hillcrest Memorial Gardens

[@laurastrobel718]

Thanks for sharing ☺🎆

[@Shawnsteroz]

I really enjoyed this Documentary. Not everybody makes it in show business, but they still have real talent and I would gladly pay to listen to Herbie if he was playing in my local Pub, or as part of a Music night. Too late now sadly.

[@rubykelley5581]

I love your passion to keep folks alive

[@carlosneto2722]

Dave, you are awesome! thanks for your life work! long live!

[@55nfabulous]

You are so fabulous Mr. Hoffman 👍🤟

[@DavidHoffmanFilmmaker]

Thank you kindly

[@sandysay1332]

He sings good

[@Av-vd3wk]

That’s an understatement!

[@cherylcallahan5402]

David Hoffman *Herbie Howell got three contracts* Listening from Mass USA TYVM 💙 David phone call made me cry he didn't make it

[@samuelaguilar5349]

His song was actually really good ! I loved it, so catchy