This is a letter that Johnny Cash "addressed" to Jim Reeves apparently after Jim was gone.
Quite classy of Johnny Cash. Personally I don't know anyone who didn't like Jim Reeves or his singing!
"Dear Jim,
Some of the songs in your new album bring back some nice memories. Remember that time we had in San Antone one night in 1960? You were playing some shows for the servicemen, and I was there on vacation. You called me up and asked me if I'd come along with you for the night - and what a night it was! You packed them in for three shows. I was hidden in the wings, but I watched it all. And your voice sure cast a spell on those servicemen. They were raising cane and livin' it up until you started in on one of your ballads. Then you could have heard a pin drop.
And, Jim, your voice is still casting its spell. Everywhere I go, you're a "standard of comparison" or a "standard to be attained.
People here, or England, or anyplace, can be heard to say, "I don't like this or that artist, but I like Jim Reeves," or "Jim Reeves is my favorite country singer, or Gentleman Jim could have hit big with that song."
You know, Jim, they talk about you as if you're not gone. Someone will record a smooth ballad and people will say, "That's a Jim Reeves-type song."
It's a little late to tell you so, but congratulations on being elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Mary accepted the award for you and, as always, you'd have been proud of her dignity and bearing. She's really a credit to the business, and so are your "Blue Boys." Mary and Chet and all of them have done such a great job in preserving and producing the tapes you made at home and in the studio that record buyers wouldn't even know you're gone.
But as I said that night backstage in San Antonio, I wish you continued success. I'm one of your biggest fans.
And I'll admit that I still consider you among my toughest competition, old buddy.
Your friend,
Johnny Cash"
Johnny has it exactly right. I have internet friends from England who still love Gentleman Jim.
