The Harters
| Industry | Music |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2009 |
| Headquarters | Arizona , United States |
| Products | Country music |
The Harters were a country music trio originating from Arizona, consisting of lead vocalist Leslie Harter alongside her brothers, Michael and Scott. Their initial single, titled "Jenny," was released in early 2010 and managed to enter the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
Biography
Prior to the group's formation, Michael relocated to Nashville to pursue a career as a country songwriter and performer, issuing an album in 2002 under Broken Bow Records using the name J. Michael Harter. Meanwhile, Scott was involved with alternative rock ensembles during his studies in San Diego. Leslie embarked on her music journey in Arizona starting at age 18. In 2005, the three siblings collaborated on a single called "Drunk Chick" under the name SEVEN, with production by David Malloy.
Choosing to unite as a band, they uploaded performance videos on YouTube, which led to their discovery by producer Keith Stegall, recognized for his work with Alan Jackson. They also worked alongside Canadian country singer Adam Gregory after performing together at a charity event. The Harters served as opening acts for Josh Turner and appeared in a 2009 photo feature on People.com.
The group made two tracks available for free download on their official website, one being "Jenny," co-written by Scott and Michael along with Malloy and Brad Irby. In March 2010, "Jenny" entered the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart at number 54 and reached a peak position of 53. Their follow-up single, "If I Run," was distributed to country radio stations in 2011. That same year, The Harters joined Alan Jackson on tour.
Critical reception
Karlie Justus from Engine 145 gave a positive review for "If I Run," likening Leslie's vocal style to that of Trisha Yearwood and commending the songwriting. Bobby Peacock of Roughstock highlighted the "clever turns of phrase" and melodic quality of "Jenny," as well as the streamlined production of "If I Run," drawing comparisons to The Band Perry.
Extended plays
| Title | Album details |
|---|---|
| Family. Love. Harmony. |
|
Singles
| Year | Single | Peak positions | Album |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Country | |||
| 2005 | "Drunk Chicks" (as SEVEN) | — | — |
| 2010 | "Jenny" | 53 | Family. Love. Harmony. |
| 2011 | "If I Run" | 51 | |
| "—" indicates singles that did not chart | |||
Music videos
| Year | Video | Director |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | "Jenny" | Jon Grimson |
| 2011 | "If I Run" | Wes Edwards |