Frizzell Family Genealogy & History

William Orville "Lefty" Frizzell was a legendary American country and honky-tonk singer-songwriter, renowned for his influential vocal style. Born on March 31, 1928, Frizzell's career soared with hits like "If You've Got the Money (I've Got the Time)" and "I Love You A Thousand Ways." As a trailblazer in country music, he inspired icons such as George Jones and Willie Nelson. Frizzell's illustrious career saw him achieve multiple Top 10 hits, becoming one of the most popular country singers of his time. His legacy was cemented with inductions into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

William Orville Frizzell was born to an oilman in Corsicana, Texas, as the first of eight children. His family later moved to El Dorado, Arkansas, where he spent his childhood. Known as "Sonny" in his early years, Frizzell's musical journey began with influences from artists like Jimmie Rodgers. His family background and early life in Texas and Arkansas laid the foundation for his future success in the country music scene.

David Frizzell, born September 26, 1941, in El Dorado, Arkansas, is a celebrated American country music singer renowned for his contributions to the genre. Beginning his career in the late 1950s, he gained prominence in the 1980s with his number-one hit "You're the Reason God Made Oklahoma," a duet with Shelly West. The song earned accolades including the Country Music Association's Song of the Year and Vocal Duet of the Year awards. Frizzell's solo success peaked with "I'm Gonna Hire a Wino to Decorate Our Home" in 1982, solidifying his status in country music. His dynamic performances on Buck Owens' All American TV Show and collaborations with top record labels like Columbia and Capitol Records underscore his lasting impact.

David Frizzell is the younger brother of the iconic country musician Lefty Frizzell. Their collaboration began early, as David joined his brother's show at the age of 12 and toured together throughout the 1950s and 1960s, showcasing their shared musical heritage and legacy. This familial connection has been pivotal in shaping David Frizzell's illustrious career in country music.

Lou Frizzell (June 10, 1920 – June 17, 1979) was a prominent American actor and music director known for his significant contributions to Broadway, television, and film. With a career marked by versatility, Frizzell was best recognized for his role as Dusty Rhodes in the popular western television series "Bonanza." His work garnered him a respected place in the entertainment industry, where he excelled both on stage and on screen until his passing in 1979 due to lung cancer.

Richard John Frizzell, born in 1943, is a renowned New Zealand artist celebrated for his pop art paintings and prints, often blending Kiwiana iconography with elements of Māori art. Based in Auckland, Frizzell gained prominence with his controversial 1992 exhibition "Tiki" at Gow Langsford Gallery. Known for both cartoon-inspired works and photorealistic landscapes, his art has been featured in various exhibitions, including "Out of Alex" at Dunedin's Milford Gallery. Besides visual art, Frizzell has contributed to design projects, written books, and received recognition as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2004 for his services to the arts.

Frizzell is related to notable figures, including his brother, politician Steve Chadwick. He has three children, among them Josh Frizzell, a television director, and Otis Frizzell, an artist and hip-hop musician. This familial connection enriches the cultural landscape of New Zealand's artistic and political spheres.