George Hamilton IV, long-standing member of the Grand Ole Opry, with many hit records under his belt, from his first, ‘A Rose And A Baby Ruth’, to his biggest, ‘Abilene’, will be celebrating his 75^th birthday, July 19, 2012.

Along the way, George Hamilton IV has earned a well-deserved reputation as the ‘International Ambassador of Country Music’. GH4 (as his fans call him) and Bear Family Records are closely connected. When Bear Family was celebrating the 35^th anniversary of the company in 2010, George Hamilton IV flew in from Tennessee on his own expense to perform at the birthday party.

Dear George,

Time flies. I still remember when we first met in London. You invited me to come to the Nashville Room on Cromwell Road, to watch the taping of your TV show. I then have been a regular guest during the tapings. Now that was about 40 years ago.
Time really flies.
Later on the way we met on and off, and then lost contact for about 15 years.
One day I was standing at the American counter at Nashville Airport. You tapped me on my shoulder and said “Hey, Richard.” It was really good to see you again. Since then you have come to see us during our 35th Anniversary Party, and we have met you and Tinky (Mrs. George Hamilton) many times.
Both Birgit and I hope to see you in Nashville later this year.
Very Best
Richard

Dear GH4, Bear Family Records is wishing you all the best for your birthday. Good luck, enjoy the music, have fun, and good health. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!