David Milton Bellamy

About

American singer-songwriter and musician best known for making up one half of the country/pop music duo The Bellamy Brothers, along with his brother, Howard Bellamy. He served as primary songwriter for the duo, penning some of the group's biggest hits including "Redneck Girl," "Old Hippie," and "Dancin' Cowboys." In 2024, he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Before Fame

He and his brother were raised near Dade City, FL and gained exposure to music at an early age from their father, who was a country musician. They earned their first big break with their 1974 hit, "Spiders & Snakes."

Trivia

He plays multiple instruments including the guitar, mandolin, accordion, fiddle, organ, and piano. His 1985 song, "Old Hippie," was ranked among the top country songs of all time by Rolling Stone. Over the course of his career, he has written and recorded 20 number-one singles, 25 top 10s, and over 50 hits that earned placement among U.S. country music charts. Many of his and his brother's songs and albums also ranked across international charts, including their 2011 compilation album which topped the Norwegian charts. In 1982, he and his brother were named the Top Country Duo by Billboard. Together, they set the record for most duo nominations in both the Academy of Country Music (ACM) and the Country Music Association Awards (CMA).

Family Life

He and his wife Susan are the parents of five sons. He operates a working ranch with his brother in their hometown of Darby, FL, where they both live and produce their music.

Associated With

He has collaborated with countless musicians over the course of his career including Freddy Fender, Alan Jackson, Jimmy Buffett, and Dolly Parton.