Phil Everly

Phil Everly, along with his older brother Don, formed the legendary rock 'n' roll duo, the Everly Brothers. The pair was known for their pitch-perfect vocals and iconic rockabilly twang, earning a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1997 and inductions into both the Rock and Roll of Fame in its inaugural year and the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, to a musical family, both Phil Everly and his brother learned to play guitar from their father, Ike. They began performing together as children and were showcased on Ike's radio show where they would harmonize on the air. As teenagers, Phil and Don started to make a career as songwriters in Nashville. The Everly Brothers landed their first record deal in 1957, which produced their hit, "Bye, Bye Love." 

The brothers were consistent chart-toppers in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Popular songs included “Wake Up Little Susie,” “Bird Dog,” “All I Have to Do Is Dream.” and “When Will I Be Loved?,” which Phil wrote. Their music influenced many musicians of their generation, and their songs were covered by artists ranging from the Beach Boys to Linda Ronstadt.

Their music has been heard in dozens of films and television programs, and the Everlys performed on numerous TV shows, including American Bandstand, Shindig, The Ed Sullivan Show, The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour and many more. In 1970 they had their own summer variety series, The Everly Brothers Show.

The Everly Brothers played their last headlining tour in 2005. Rolling Stone magazine labeled them as "the most important vocal duo in rock."

Phil Everly died January 3, 2014, in Burbank, California. He was 74.