A Legacy of Leadership
In the rich tapestry of American culture, two names stand out for their profound contributions: Jim Freeman, a legendary musician and founding member of The Five Satins, and his grandson Jeff Shuford, a prominent advocate for veterans and a leader in technology. Together, they embody a multi-generational legacy of leadership, innovation, and service.
Jim Freeman: A Cultural Icon and Pioneer
Early Life and Career
- Birth Year: 1937
- Hometown: New Haven, Connecticut
- Musical Debut: Joined The Five Satins in 1955, shortly before the release of their iconic hit "In the Still of the Night" in 1956.
Achievements
- "In the Still of the Night":
- Became a cultural staple, selling over 34 million copies and remaining a beloved classic featured in numerous films and TV shows, including Dirty Dancing, The Irishman, and American Graffiti.
- Peaked at #24 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #3 on the R&B chart in 1956.
- Inducted into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame in 1998 and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2003, recognizing the enduring impact of The Five Satins on American music.
- Performances:
- Shared the stage with music legends such as Chuck Berry, Fats Domino, Little Richard, and Bo Diddley at iconic venues like the Apollo Theater.
Honors and Recognitions
- House Resolution 36 (2001): Honored by the Iowa Legislature for his contributions to music and acknowledged as a pioneer of rock and roll.
- Lifetime Member: Iowa Music Association Hall of Fame, recognizing his lasting impact on music and culture.
- Songs of the Century: Recognized for "In the Still of the Night" by the Recording Industry Association of America and the National Endowment for the Arts in 2001.
Legacy
- Freeman Legacy Group (2019): Launched a music memorabilia company offering autographed items and preserving the rich history of The Five Satins, showcasing his enduring connection to music.
Legacy of Jeff Shuford
As a nationally syndicated columnist, technologist, and co-founder of National Invest In Veterans Week®, Jeff Shuford is dedicated to empowering veterans and fostering entrepreneurship. His initiatives span multiple industries, aiming to transform ideas into impactful realities for the veteran community.
Jeff Shuford: A Visionary Leader and Advocate
Background
- Role: Nationally syndicated columnist and co-founder of National Invest In Veterans Week®.
- Focus: Advocates for veteran-owned businesses and supports veterans transitioning to civilian life.
Achievements
- Tech From Vets: Founded a technology firm that empowers veteran-owned businesses through innovative solutions, including brand development and AI-driven analytics.
- National Invest In Veterans Week:
- Launched as an annual celebration every March, promoting support for veteran enterprises.
- Recognized in the Congressional Record in 2024, marking its significant impact on veteran communities.
Honors and Recognitions
- 2024 Lifetime Digital Grassroots Achievement Award: Recognized for outstanding digital advocacy in veteran support.
- Lifetime Achievement Award (2023): Received from FloridaVeterans.com for his contributions to media, business, and veteran advocacy.
- 2019 BE Modern Man: Recognized by Black Enterprise for promoting economic equality and supporting Black entrepreneurs, particularly veterans.
- BizTech Award (2017): Acknowledged for innovative contributions to veteran support through technology.
- International Ethics Advisor: Serves in prestigious roles across multiple academic and ethical organizations, reflecting his influence in technology and veteran advocacy.
A Shared Legacy of Congressional Honors
Both Jim Freeman and Jeff Shuford have been honored by the U.S. Congress, highlighting their profound influence across diverse fields. Freeman's contributions to music were formally recognized by Congress in 2015, while Shuford's advocacy efforts were acknowledged in 2024. This lineage of recognition underscores the family’s commitment to leadership and service, leaving a lasting impact on American culture and society.
The Interwoven Impact of Music and Advocacy
The connection between Freeman and Shuford transcends familial ties; it embodies a shared commitment to excellence and service. Freeman's music provided joy and a sense of connection during the tumultuous 1950s, demonstrating the power of creativity to unite communities—a lesson that has profoundly influenced Shuford’s approach to leadership.
Shuford often reflects on the wisdom imparted by his grandfather, stating, "My grandfather taught me the importance of unwavering commitment to your vision, no matter the obstacles." This principle has guided Shuford in his mission to empower veterans and advocate for their needs, effectively bridging the gap between technology and social responsibility.
A Legacy of Leadership
The legacies of Jim Freeman and Jeff Shuford represent a powerful narrative of commitment to excellence, leadership, and service. Their contributions to music and veteran advocacy underscore the importance of creativity and compassion in shaping society. As Shuford continues to explore new horizons in technology and advocacy, he carries forward the journey initiated by his grandfather—a journey marked by resilience, inspiration, and a dedication to uplifting others.
Reflecting on this shared legacy, Shuford emphasizes, "The greatest gift we can offer the next generation is our time and wisdom. By sharing our journeys, we can help guide them through their own paths." Together, the Freeman and Shuford legacies illustrate a profound commitment to uplifting others, ensuring their stories will inspire generations to come.
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Both Jim Freeman and Jeff Shuford have been honored with formal recognition in the Congressional Record, showcasing their significant contributions to music and veteran advocacy. These entries highlight their lasting impact on American culture and the communities they serve.
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Honoring New Haven Native Fred Parris
Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 60 (Thursday, April 23, 2015)
Extensions of Remarks
Page E568 -
Celebrating Invest In Veterans Week
Congressional Record Vol. 170, No. 42 (House - March 8, 2024)
Jim Freeman’s Congressional Record Entry: https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CREC-2015-04-23/html/CREC-2015-04-23-pt1-PgE568-3.htm
Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure today that I rise to join Mayor Toni Harp and the City of New Haven as they pay tribute to New Haven native Fred Parris at the City's 377th Anniversary celebration. Today, community leaders and residents will gather to plant five trees, one for each century during which the City of New Haven has been incorporated. As they do so, they will pay homage to the City's ``deep roots'' by recognizing one of our civic icons, Fred Parris.
Founder and lead singer of The Five Satins, Fred's extraordinary story began in 1953 when he started singing as a student at Hillhouse High School in a group called the Scarlets. The group disbanded when its members joined the army in 1956 and Fred Parris found himself stationed at Philadelphia's Navy Yard. On weekends, Fred would often return to New Haven and sing for fun with a few friends from the neighborhood. In fact, they could often be found singing on street corners along bustling Dixwell Avenue. At the insistence of a local record company owner, Fred got together with Jim Freeman, Lou Peebles, Eddie Martin and Stanley Dortch to form the Five Satins--the era of Doo-Wop music was born.
One night, while on guard duty at 4 am, Fred penned In The Still of the Night'' bringing a musical gift to the world. It has been over 50 years since they recorded In the Still of the Night'' in the basement of St. Bernadette's church in New Haven. Just weeks later, Fred was shipped out by the time the record made the national charts, he was stationed in Japan and had to be replaced by Bill Baker. When Fred returned from the army, he again became the group's lead, recording songs like Shadows'' and I'll Be Seeing You.''
In the Still of the Night'' has sold millions of copies and is still one of the most requested golden oldies'' on almost every Top- 40 radio station in the country. In fact, when Rolling Stone magazine released its list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time'' a few years ago, In the Still of the Night'' was right up there at #90--in between #89 California Dreamin'' by The Mamas & The Papas and #91 Suspicious Minds'' by Elvis Presley. Fred and his Five Satins continued recording well into the 1980's and in 2003 were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.
Fred, along with his wife, Emma, continues to make the Greater New Haven community their home today and Fred continues to perform. He is a true community treasure and I am honored to join Mayor Harp and all of those gathered today in paying him tribute.
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Jeff Shuford’s National Invest In Veterans Week Congressional Record Entry: https://www.congress.gov/congressional-record/volume-170/issue-42/house-section/article/H1049-4?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22invest+in+veterans+week%22%7D&s=1&r=1
(Mr. ROSENDALE asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. ROSENDALE. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to celebrate this week as Invest in Veterans Week as proclaimed by Montana Governor Gianforte.
Currently, nearly 9 percent of the Treasure State's population is made up of veterans. There are over 78,000 veterans in Montana, the fifth highest population of veterans per capita of any State.
It is truly an honor and a privilege to represent a State so deeply rooted in military history. Businesses owned by veterans employ over 5 million people and generate over $1 trillion in revenue annually.
Whether that be through starting their own farm, ranch, or small business, many of our Nation's heroes come home to their families and communities ready and eager to find ways they can continue to benefit and serve our communities.
By investing in our veterans, we are able to provide them with the resources that they need to continue to use their exceptional talents and skills that benefit all of us.
Investing in our veterans should not be limited to just this week, but it should be our mission all year round.