LEON CHAPPELEAR
Leon Chappelear (1905–1980) was a Virginia-born singer, guitarist, and songwriter whose career bridged old-time music and early country. A skilled accompanist, he recorded both as a solo artist and as a session guitarist, later backing performers such as Jimmie Davis. His recordings are marked by clean, economical guitar work, a relaxed vocal style, and a repertoire that blended sentimental songs, blues, and traditional country material.
TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE
Recorded September 13, 1932 — Richmond, Indiana
Matrix: 18784 - Champion 16673
"Too Good to Be True" is a finely crafted sentimental ballad that allows Chappelear's understated guitar style to shine. Built on a steady alternating-bass accompaniment with tasteful transitions between vocal phrases, the performance demonstrates how an uncomplicated guitar part can provide a strong rhythmic and harmonic foundation without drawing attention away from the song.
