Bobby Helms

Bobby Helms

Bobby Helms (August 15, 1933 – June 19, 1997) was an American country music and rockabilly singer who achieved his greatest fame during the late 1950s and early 1960s. He is best remembered for his seasonal hits "Jingle Bell Rock" and "My Special Angel," which have become perennial favorites in the decades since their release.

Early Life

Born Robert Lee Helms in Bloomington, Indiana, Helms began his musical career performing with his brother in a duo before going solo. His early influences included the sounds of Hank Williams, Ernest Tubb, and other country legends of the time.

Career

Helms' career took off in 1957 when he signed with Decca Records and released "Fraulein." The song became a crossover hit, reaching the top of the country charts and making an impressive showing on the pop charts as well. Later that year, he released "My Special Angel," which also performed well on both charts.

However, it was the 1957 release of "Jingle Bell Rock" that cemented Helms' place in music history. The song was an immediate hit, selling over a million copies and becoming a Christmas standard. Unlike many seasonal songs that fade in popularity, "Jingle Bell Rock" has remained a radio staple during the holiday season, covered by numerous artists across various genres.

Despite these early successes, Helms struggled to maintain his chart momentum through the 1960s. He continued recording and performing, transitioning more into the country music scene, but never replicated the high chart positions of his late 1950s hits.

Later Years and Legacy

In the later years of his career, Helms continued to perform, particularly around the Christmas season, and made appearances on the oldies circuit. He passed away in 1997 in Martinsville, Indiana, but left behind a legacy that has endured, particularly through "Jingle Bell Rock," which has become an indelible part of American Christmas culture.

Helms' influence extends beyond his holiday hit; he is recognized for his contributions to the development of both the country and rockabilly genres. His early crossover success helped pave the way for future artists to find audiences in both country and pop music.

Discography

While Helms released numerous singles and albums throughout his career, his most notable recordings include:

• "Fraulein" (1957)
• "My Special Angel" (1957)
• "Jingle Bell Rock" (1957)

See Also

• Country Music
• Rockabilly
• Christmas Music