An art form that has its origins in African-American music, including the call-and-response singing between preacher and congregation in churches, today gospel music is much loved by music fans of all backgrounds and religions around America. One of the most celebratory music forms, nothing expresses joy in a subject the way gospel music does. Some of the incredibly talented groups whose work we carry have been delivering their jubilant music for more than half a century. If you want to hear music that delivers love and happiness, this is the place for you!
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Siyahamba'ekukhanyet'kwenkhos Dry Bones Glory, Glory Hallelujah Open The Window Noah He's Got The Whole World In His Hands Hallelujah! (Been Down Into The Sea) Sometimes I feel Like A Motherless Child Oh Mary Don't You Weep Jesus Lay Your Head in da Winder The Word Was God Oh Make Me Holy All My Trials Walk Together Children John the Revelator Rocka My Soul |
An LA-born native Californian, Albert McNeil earned Bachelors and Masters degrees at UCLA and did his doctorate studies at USC, the Westminster Choir College of Princeton and the Univ. of Lausanne, Switzerland. He has been conducting groups and church choirs for most of his adult life, and has dedicated himself to upholding a tradition of choral excellence as Founder/Director of the McNeil Jubilee Singers in 1968. Since then the Singers have earned international acclaim for their vast repertoire of African-American folk music, focusing on the rich genre known as Negro Spirituals as well as gospel, secular folk songs, calypsos and other African-Caribbean and African vocal forms. Their repertory also consists of concert works by distinguished African-American composers and arrangers along with Classical Opera, Sacred Music and Musical Theater. The 15 selections in "Best of Jubilee" draw on the best performances of one of the most honored choral ensembles. It's understandably hard to pick favorites, but the South African freedom song "Siyahamba'ekukhanuen'kwenkhos" (We are marching in the light of God), "Glory, Glory Hallelujah," "Open the Window, Noah," "Hallelujah! (Been Down Into The Sea)," "Oh, Mary Don't You Weep," "Oh Make Me Holy," "All My Trials," "Walk Together Children" and "Rocka My Soul" are particularly fine. Inspirational and moving songs, every one the best of the best!
Listen to Open The Window Noah and Rocka My Soul in Real Audio.
| 2893 CD $14.98 |
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In Harlem, New York City, exists a wonder of Christian redemption. Over
forty years ago James Allen, an ex-addict himself, began the Addicts Rehabilitation
Center. Their success with hard-core addicts, using tough love built on
the rock of unshakeable faith, has turned around the lives of thousands.
The ARC Choir is the sung testament of that work. Each of the singers
is not expressing merely an idea but bearing witness to his and her own
personal salvation. The result is music so profoundly moving that one
is inevitably moved to tears. On the cover of the CD is this simple description.
"The great Harlem a cappella choir that reduced the Bill Cosby Show
audience to tears. 32 burning-with-faith voices sending a message of hope
'cause they've been pulled from the abyss." It doesn't get more real.
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The Belleville A Cappella Choir of the Church of God and Saints of Christ, a Virginia-based church that traces its lineage back to the lost tribes of Israel, is carrying on a dynamic living folk tradition of African-American spirituals. The BACC performs richly-textured and tightly harmonized Biblical texts in gospel, jubilee and choral styles. They are featured in Alan Lomax's Southern Journey, a 13-volume series of original recordings evoking the musical world of the rural South in an era before radio, movies and television. There are 13 authentic songs here, songs like "The Gospel Train,""Keep Me As The Apple Of Thine Eye,""David Was A Shepherd Boy,""What A Time,"a Medley of Spirituals including eight classics, "The House of the Lord,""On the Battlefield for My Lord,"and finishing with the title tune. "Honor The Lamb"is one of the most powerful Gospel/Spiritual CDs we've ever heard–it's the real thing!
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Hallelujah |
For three-quarters of a century the tradition of black a cappella quartet singing has been associated with Jefferson County, Alabama which many view as America's capital of gospel singing. Between university musical education and the tutelage of groups such as the Sterling Jubilees, Shelby County Big Four and the Four Eagles, the Sunlights have become the inheritors of this tradition. With that unusual background however, as you might suspect, they do not limit themselves to just traditional songs but compose new material to expand the field of gospel music. You'll also notice that there are five members in this quartet. The Soul Stirrers are credited with that innovation in order to have a lead "step out front" without losing the quartet harmonic complexity. The Birmingham Sunlights are one of this reviewers favorites.
| 3341 CD $14.98 |
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The Sermon All the Way I'll Fly Away Without the Help of Jesus I'm on the Battlefield Heavenly Light Sit Down Servant Standing by the Bedside When I Need Him Most Precious Lord This May Be The Last Time Out Father's Praying Ground Marching Up To Zion God's Promise You Got to Move Old Time Religion Does Jesus Care Swingin' on the Golden Gate I Cried Hallelujah Golden Bells Heaven on My Mind I'm Going Through Fix it Jesus I've Been Born Again When Death Comes In the Garden |
The Five Blind Boys of Alabama, led by the charismatic Clarence Fountain, have recently taken their fervent quartet-style gospel sounds beyond church audiences to new fans at festivals, concert halls, and nightclubs around the world. Even during the Fifties, when they were kings of the gospel circuit, they were open to experiment, and this collection of 27 tracks, all but two previously unissued, finds them mixing jazz, Latin rhythms, and even comedy into their repertoire. Besides veteran group members Fountain and George Scott, it features the chilling voices of four singing preachers--Paul Exkano, Samuel K. Lewis, George W. Warren, and Percell Perkins.
| 5221 CD $12.95 |
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One of the most influential gospel acts of all time, The Fiveblind Boys Of Alabama, have been performing and recording now for almost 60 years. Today they are at the height of their fame with world tours and best selling CDs as well as the support of rock stars such as Peter Gabriel. This collection gathers together 28 tracks recorded from 1948-51, many of which were hits in the gospel market at the time, "Honetin The Rock" and "Come Over Here" being the most notable. This is the perfect introduction to the early days of one of gospel's most important groups. The package comes with a 12 page booklet including notes by the renowned gospel expert "Opal Louis Nations."
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More people have heard about the Chestnut Grove Quartet than have actually heard them, for they influenced the world of a cappella music tremendously. The quartet was created by friends who had sung together in childhood in Washington County, Virginia where they learned shape note singing from itinerant instructors. After returning from WW II, they started singing together once again but just didn't feel the need for instruments and became one of those rare mountain groups who sang their hymnody a cappella. In the mid '50s they started singing on newly opened WBBI in Abington. From 2:00 to 2:30 each Sunday, for thirty years, they had a show, paid for by the sale of songbooks and LP's.(Their first album was recorded in less than an hour!!!) After the death of his brother and singing partner, Carter Stanley, Ralph moved back home and became a great fan of the quartet. He was so influenced that, in 1971, he began singing quartet style a cappella in his shows. It was a hit. Now most bluegrass groups put down their instruments for a moment of gospel harmonizing. This music is major part of the reason why that happens.
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efore This Time Another Year Ananais Don't You Know The Man? Come By Here Family Prayer Leaning on the Lord One-Two-Three The Lord Will Make A Way Somehow It's Getting Late in the Evening No Room in the Hotel Watche Ye Therefore I'm Going Back With Him I've Tried Ananais Don't You Know the Man? The Lifeboat is Coming What A Wonderful Sight Don't Worry About Me When I Get Home On the Main Line Stay With Me Jesus Prayer for the Doomed |
One of the great a cappella quartets of Gospel music's Golden Age, The Chosen Gospel Singers has been among the most mysterious. 11 singles by the Chosen were released from 1952 to 1963, four on Specialty Records and seven on Nashboro. Several, including "One-Two-Three" and "Prayer for the Doomed," became hits, making the Chosen one of the busiest touring groups of the period. Every recording was of high quality, but from release to release, new members would appear, and then disappear. It is not even widely known that Lou Rawls was a member, as his official bio doesn't mention the Chosen, implying that he began his career with the more famous Pilgrim Travelers. But Rawls' one-of-a-kind baritone is featured on 8 of the 22 selections in this collection, the first ever to compile every song the group recorded for Specialty between 1952 and 1955. There are 22 wonderful cuts here, most of which we are hearing for the first time. "Before This Time Another Year," "Don't You Know The Man," the passionate "Leaning On The Lord," "It's Getting Late in the Evening," "No Room in the Hotel," "I'm Going Back with Him," the hand-clapping gem "Ananais," "Don't You Know The Man," "The Lifeboat is Coming," "Don't Worry About Me," "On The Main Line" and "Stay With Me Jesus." Every cut here is foot-tapping, joyous revelation, the authentic good old wailing, crying, Gospel stuff. Don't miss this one!
Listen to "Leaning on the Lord in Real Audio.
| 5218 CD $12.95 |
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The Coats Singers originated in San Francisco, CA, in the backyard
of their parents' (Curtis and Gradie Coats Sr.) home. They raised a
Christian family of 17 children, all of whom have beautiful, refined
voices. The group now consists of 3 generations of the Coats family,
who spread the gospel through a cappella music. 9 traditional spirituals:
"When Jesus Comes," "Home of the Soul," "That Rock Still Stands," "Oh
Mary Don't You Weep," "Jesus Is A Balm," "Lonesome Valley," "On The
Wings of A Dove," "Where Could I Go" and "Acappella." This deeply spiritual
family sings together with soul and a joyful spirit!
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Love Me Like a Rock |
The unique, highly-defined harmonies that was called the "Jubilee" style of the Dixie Hummingbirds, made them pioneers of a Gospel quartet sound that became widely influential to many genres of music, including R&B, blues, Gospel, Pop and the Motown sound. Lead singer Ira Tucker, young baritone prodigy Willie Bobo, and a move to Philadelphia in the 1940s led to the growing popularity and legend of the "Birds," who continue performing, in various incarnations, to the present day, recording with Paul Simon and Stevie Wonder and earning Ebony Magazine's title of "Greatest Gospel Group," and a Grammy in 1973 for Best Soul Gospel Performance. The selections heard on this recording span three decades of the group work for the Peacock label, and a range of traditional, pre-war gospel numbers transformed into the group's highly original style, to contemporary songs written by the most famous 'Bird of them all Ira Tucker.
| 3023 CD $9.98 |
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The rise of groups like the Golden Gate Quartet took gospel music out of the conservative confines of the Black church, and opened the door for other groups who wanted to sing spirituals in a different way. One of the groups to achieve success in the more liberated climate was the Hampton Institute Quartet, who changed their name to the Delta Rhythm Boys, and were equally at home delivering a pop song as a gospel item. They teamed up with Ella Fitzgerald during the 1940s recording ban in America, when her career might have been put on hold. However much the gospel group might have been threatened with eternal damnation to even think about "La Cucaracha," their fearlessness, both musically and politically, is what made them one of the greats. 20 winners, and we can't decide which we like the best, pop tunes like "Little Lize," the sweet "It Was Wonderful Then," a swinging "La Cucaracha," the silly minstrel-show tune "Watermelon On The Vine," the hip "Gimme Some Skin" and "Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gave To Me," or gospel hits like "Wait Till I Put On My Crown," a rocking "Ezekiel Saw De Wheel," "Certainly Lord," "Mighty Day," and "Scandalize My Name" (which is actually more of a commentary on religious bigotry). There's a particularly fine, laid-back early version of "Georgia On My Mind," and the swinging title tune, the final cut, is a joy. All songs at least piano accompanied, recorded in NY in 1941. Listen to Little Lize (I Love You) in Real Audio.
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"Old Time Religion" collects the complete recordings, including several alternate takes, of two of the hottest Gospel quartets of the lat 40s, the Detroiters and the Golden Echoes. These are all from the archives of Specialty Records, who were best known for numerous records by their four most famous groups, the Pilgrim Travelers, The Swan Silvertones, the Soul Stirrers and the Five Blind Boys of Alabama. With the focus on these four, some wonderful groups that weren't as well recorded have sadly been overlooked, an oversight that Legends of Gospel aims to correct. Although these great black Gospel groups formed in big cities, the Golden Echoes in Los Angeles and the Detroiters, of course, in the Motor City; they had their roots in Texas, the hotbed of great quartet singing. While the Echoes remained a quartet, the Detroiters added two more singers and a pianist, rare for Gospel groups at the time. They were also noted for their unusual focus on "Mother" songs, recording a trilogy of them, "Mother on the Train," "Mother, Don't Cry About Your Son" and "Mother, I Need Your Prayer." There are 15 spirited cuts by the Detroiters here, including 3 alternate versions, a few other favorites are "Ride On King Jesus," "Let Jesus Lead You," and the previously unissued "He Walks With Me," "Body and Soul" and "Shady Green Pastures." The Golden Echoes have 11 cuts, three of them alternates; some favorites are the previously unissued "Where Shall I Be (When The First Trumpet Sounds)," "Down on My Knees," "I'm So Happy (In the Service of the Lord)," "Waiting and Watching," and "Yield Not to Temptation." This is wonderful, joyous revival-meeting stuff from two of Gospel's best!
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Noah These Bones Come On In This House There Must Be A City Get Away Jordan I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray That Day Is Done Help For The Needy (Today) Shadrack Four and Twenty Elders Amazing Grace / The Prodigal Son |
Listen to Elvis Costello (from the CD notes) who invited the Fairfield Four to perform in an unlikely venue, The Meltdown Festival in London. "There was an apparent tension between the deep conviction on stage and a distinctly secular curiosity in the house. In truth I would have been among those who had never done more than utter "Amen" in their life. However, as I stood by the side of the stage to listen, it became apparent that something extraordinary was taking place. A "reprise chorus" became longer than the previous song, and so on, until the place was almost in an uproar, swept along by this wonderful sound and feeling. If few souls were saved that night, then quite a few were obviously swayed" Can we get a witness? If you consider yourself secular or not, this recording will move you just the same.
Listen to Noah in Real Audio.
| 3322 CD $12.98 |
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In the 1940's, life was tough for the young gospel quartets even though there was an increasingly receptive audience. Usually being on the road meant just that, endless car travel. When the Fairfield Four gained a spot on the nationally syndicated radio show for the Sunway Vitamin Co., aired by Nashville's WLAC, they gained national attention and became one of America's favorites. As the popularity of radio diminished, the road schedule, daily 6:45 a.m. radio performances and some business difficulties led to the break-up of the group. They reunited for a performance in 1980 thanks to the efforts of Doug Seroff, a gospel quartet specialist, and the group was reborn. They received an award as National Heritage Fellows in 1989 which underscored their importance to the American musical heritage. One very special tune on this recording is "Roll Jordan Roll," performed with the members of The Nashville Bluegrass Band. Listen to "Standing in the Safety Zone" in Real Audio.
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The Four are probably Nashville's best-known, most influential and certainly longest-performing African-American a cappella gospel quartet. 'Bells' is a rare album actually recorded 40 years ago at the Fairfield Missionary Baptist Church in Nashville, Tennessee, and it represents post-war gospel music at its best. Included are: 'The Bells Are Tolling,' 'What Are They Doing In Heaven Today,' 'Memories of My Mother,' 'Every Knee Has Got To Bow,' 'Don't Let Nobody Turn You Around,' 'Wait On The Lord' (aka 'He's My Rock, My Sword, My Shield'), 'I John Saw The Number,' 'In The Old Time Way,' 'At The Gates Of The City,' 'My Work On Earth Will Soon Be Done,' 'I'll Be So Happy' (aka 'If I Could Hear My Mother Pray Again') and 'Hide Me In Thy Bosom.' Powerful, spirited and moving, 'Bells' is African-American gospel at its authentic best!
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I'm Gonna Sing Till the Spirit Moves Poor Man Lazrus Down By the Riverside Lord, I'm Out Here On Your Word De Gospel Train Were You There Rockin' Jerusalem Nobody Knows the Trouble I See I Been in the Storm Soon-Ah Will Be Done He's Got the Whole World in His Hands Hold On There Is A Balm in Gilead Daniel, Daniel, Servant of the Lord Wade in the Water Ride On, Jesus I'm Got A Home In-A Dat Rock In Bright Mansions |
Fisk University, originally the Fisk Free Colored School, was founded in Nashville, TN right after the Civil War, by northern missionaries. The school treasurer, a Gettysburg veteran named George White, loved music, and was moved by the slave hymns he would sometimes overhear in the refugee camps, but it was difficult to get his young students to sing them, as they were associated with slavery and things best forgotten. George began collecting and arranging these "secret songs," with the help of his secretary, Ella Sheppard, who brought him "O Freedom" and "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot," lullabies her mother had taught her. In time, White and Sheppard collected over a hundred songs. In 1871, Fisk was on the brink of financial collapse, and George White took a group of young singers on the route of the Underground Railroad, hoping to "sing into the hearts" of the people and raise money to save the school. At first enduring racism and indifference, the group finally found some success in Ohio, and then made it to New York, where Henry Ward Beecher, in his Plymouth Church in Brooklyn, was so moved by their singing he commanded his wealthy parishioners to give generously to the Jubilee's cause. Suddenly the churches of metropolitan New York opened their doors to them, and people rushed to hear "the genuine soul music of the slave cabins, before the Lord led his people out of the house of bondage." This began a series of successful tours, to Britain, Europe and all over the United States that finally exhausted the young singers, yet raised enough to erase Fisk's debt and build beautiful new campus buildings. 18 authentic songs, some of our favorites: "Down By The Riverside," "De Gospel Train," "Were You There," "Rockin' Jerusalem," "Nobody Knows the Trouble I See," "He's Got the Whole World In His Hands," "I'm Got A Home In-A Dat Rock," and the title tune. The CD cover and liner notes are actually a small book, with great old photos and the amazing story of the Fisk Singers. And, this is an "Enhanced" CD--if you load it into your computer's CD player, you can see a nicely-done visual presentation of the group's history with many photos, as well as photos and info from the recording session--very cool. Recommended
Listen to "I'm Gonna Sing Till the Spirit Moves" and "Down By the Riverside" in Real Audio.
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I Soon Will Be Done With the Troubles of this World Shadrack Ezekiel Saw the Wheel Swing Low Sweet Chariot Rock My Soul The End of My Journey Gospel Train Go Down Moses Joshua Fir the Battle of Jericho Sometimes I Feel LIke A Motherless Child Didn't it Rain Hush Hush Oh Happy Day (a cappella) Down By the Riverside Was in the Water Swing Down Chariot Nobody Knows the Toruble I've Seen Oh Happy Day |
When the four young black men first began harmonizing together in Norfolk, VA in 1934, they could hardly have imagined being invited four years later to New York to perform in the now legendary "From Spirituals to Swing" concerts at Carnegie Hall. About that time they cut their first recorded sides, laying down an amazing 14 tracks in 2 hours. Nearly 70 years later, the group is still spreading the Gospel and delighting audiences with their upbeat, rhythmic hits. "Good Book" is essentially a "best of" studio CD, containing 18 tunes. "I Soon Will Be Done With The Troubles Of This World," "Ezekiel Saw The Wheel," "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot," "Rock My Soul," "Gospel Train"ìwe've heard them before, but they're new and fresh here. "Oh Happy Day," "Down By The Riverside," "Swing Down Chariot"ìthe GGQ invites us aboard the Gospel train, and it's a great ride!
Listen to Ezekiel Saw the Wheel and Down By the Riverside Real Audio.
| 2829 CD $14.98 |
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When the GGQ burst onto the gospel music scene in the 1930's out of the Tidewater region of Virginia, black churches were quite musically conservative and not given to rhythmic experimentation or nods toward popular music. Thus there was a fair amount of head-shaking when the GGQ emerged as the leader of a very fine pack of Gospel groups during a very difficult and trying time in American history. Appearing on a North Carolina radio station led to a move north, then to a Bluebird recording contract. The strong beat and counterpoint in those first recordings are looked upon as a turning point in Gospel music, a rebirth of the spiritual. "Rock My Soul" has 20 marvelous tunes, recorded from 1937 to 1943, all of them upbeat, rhythmic, harmonic hits. Listen to "Golden Gate Gospel Train," "Jonah In The Whale," "Go Where I Send Thee" and the vocal "horns" on "Massa's In The Cold Cold Ground," the title tunéthis is amazing stuff. Humorous songs like "Preacher and the Bear" and "Jonah In the Whale" have as much novelty pop in them as Gospel. "Stalin Wasn't Stallin" (about the defeat of Hitler by the Russians) and "Comin' In On A Wing and a Prayer" feed nicely on the "God is on our side" sentiment of WWII. Not at all maudlin or dire like some Gospel groups, the GGQ are cheerful, joyous and celebratory in their music, and we think they are one of the best, and most interesting, of all time! Listen to "Gospel Train in Real Audio.
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Edwin Hawkins (born 18 August 1943, Oakland, California) is a Grammy Award-winning American gospel and R&B musician, pianist, choir leader, composer and arranger. He is one of the originators of the urban contemporary gospel sound. He (and the Edwin Hawkins Singers) are best known for his arrangement of "Oh Happy Day" (1968-69), which was included on the Songs of the Century list. When radio stations of the San Francisco Bay area started playing "Oh Happy Day", it became very popular. Featuring the lead vocal of Dorothy Combs Morrison, the subsequently released single rocketed to sales of over a million copies within two months. It crossed over to the pop charts making U.S. #4 and UK #2 in 1969. It then became an international success, selling more than 7 million copies worldwide, and Hawkins was awarded his first Grammy for it.
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Peace Be Still Glory to His Name I'm Sealed Get Away Jordan Rest for the Weary Deliver Me Oh My Lord Lead Me, Heavenly Father Old Gospel Train (The Next Stop Is Mine) Get on Board The Railroad Plenty Good Room Sometime No Hiding Place Waiting For Me Wade in the Water I Wouldn't Mind Dying I'll Be With Thee He's Calling Me Untitled Instrumental Thank You Lord For Using Me These Are They Ana many more! |
music. Specialty Records, founded by Art Rupe in 1946 was one of the first companies to nurture this creative flowering, and it remained at the forefront of the genre. The Pilgrim Travelers, the Soul Stirrers, Sister Wynona Carr, Brother Joe May, Dorothy Love Coates and the Original Gospel Harmonettes, the Original Blind Boys of Alabama, and the Swan Silvertones are a few of the giants of the Golden Age discovered and featured by Art Rupe on Specialty. "Get On Board" has 24 Gospel hits, all accompanied, most of which highlight Dorothy's Rockin' Soul, foot-tapping Revival-style leads, and her Harmonettes sing sweet and solid background harmonies. On stage Dorothy would leap and lunge, a ferociously animated performer and an astonishing lyricist who composed a dozen Gospel standards. A few favorites are "Get Away Jordan," "Rest for the Weary," "Deliver Me," "No Hiding Place" (which was featured in the movie "Ghost'"), "Old Gospel Train," "Plenty Good Room," "Waiting for Me," "I Wouldn't Mind Dying," the title tune and the final cut "That's Enough," but every cut here is an inspiration and a revelation. We look upon Dorothy Love Coates as an early Aretha, who also began her career singing Gospel, and if you love authentic Gospel, Get On Board this one!
| 5219 CD $12.95 |
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A 1992 re-release on the Specialty label, which was founded by Art
Rupe in 1946. The Meditation Singers, led by Earnestine Rundless,
began their performing career in 1947, at the New Liberty Baptist
Church in Detroit. This four member group initially started with four
women, including Della Reese, who eventually left for a career in
pop. Later members included tenor and composer James Cleveland, and
soul chanteuse Laura Lee. It's Earnestine's sandpaper and gravel shout,
however, that delivers the goods, as heard on 'God Is Good To Me'
and most of the tunes on this recording. The Meditation Singers continued
touring through the 1980's, and they are the genuine article of the
golden era of gospel.
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Bowie, Maryland-based group Mutual Agreement describes itself in the liner notes as "An a cappella sextet, spreading the word of God through song; and bringing hope, strength, and encouragement to souls everywhere." Smooth, surprising harmonies combine with moving, heartfelt words of praise in the ten songs on "Back to Basix:" "Mutual Agreement," "Battlefield," "Wonderful," "Leave Your Burdens There," "This Day," "Love Lifted Me," "Calvary," "Have A Little Talk," "Everywhere You Go" and "Mutual Agreement." Gospel, spirituals, hymns3⁄4however you choose to define the songs, the group's renditions and arrangements are fresh, contemporary and beautifully inspirational. An uplifting first CD by six very talented, spiritual men. Listen to "Calvary" in Real Audio.
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The seven deeply spiritual young New York men who called themselves "Seven" and became 1999 Harmony Sweeps Champs now are called Naturally 7 were often asked, "What is it you're doing?" Instead of answering, they wrote a song: "What Is It?" which became the title of their second CD. If the first ("Non-Fiction," on PAC Records) was still highly jazzful and musicologically composed, the second offers a new quality of pop music, striking sparks as soon as you hear it, with an organic fizz to it. Naturally Seven summon up soul, rap, rock and folk from their throats in harmonious balance; their repertoire consists half of their own compositions, half of cover versions. At first listen, we were certain that the group had gone top 40 and was using a hot soul band, until we read the disclaimer "All Sounds A Cappella, all musical sounds crated by the human voice." Listen to the title tune, the Kool & The Gang-flavored "I Wanna Be Where U.R. (Rescue Me)," or "No Fool For You," and you'll hear the a cappella envelope being seriously pushed. 14 songs, hard to pick favorites, but a funky "Broken Wings" cover, "Another You," "Get Ready," "Say You Love Me," "Closer," "Back to the Essence" and "Grace" work for us. The fact that for several years the group has been been busy creating a huge following in Germany, Switzerland and Japan is our loss in the US. One of the best, most influential CDs of the year, on many levels, Beautiful and extensive liner notes. Listen to "What Is It?" in RealAudio.
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Ease My Troublin' Mind |
The Paschall Brothers were founded as a quintet in 1981, in the footsteps of the renowned Golden Gate Quartet. A multi-generational family group that carries on the African American "roots gospel" tradition that emerged in the post-Civil War South, delights audiences with their classic Virginia Tidewater sound. "On the Right Road Now" features 13 soulful, authentic Gospel/Spiritual a cappella tunes such as "Ease My Troublin' Mind," "Last Days," the uplifting "Joy," the richly harmonic "Remember Me," the joyous, foot-tapping "Jesus Gave Me Water," the metaphorical "Automobile" and "Final Edition," the classic hymns "Rugged Cross" and "The Lord's Prayer," the spirited "I'll Be Satisfied," "Church Folk," the medley "God Said He Would Move/On The Right Road Now," and the standard "I Want to See Jesus." Many of these songs are new to us, and they are all the more enjoyable to listen to because of that! There's a 32-page booklet with photos and info about the music and this amazing group. Great stuff from beginning to end, this is one of the best Gospel collections we have heard in a long time!
Listen to " I'll Be Satisfied" in Real Audio.
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Cain's Blood |
Year 2000 release by this prototypical and legendary vocal harmony group, now reinforced by new member B.J. Jones (replacing the late "Toubo" Rhoad). Though the Persuasions are cast in the doo-wop mold, "Sunday Morning Soul" borrows from the Southern gospel tradition that fashioned the Harmonizing Four, Soul Stirrers and Pilgrim Travelers, to name just a few. It's a blessed union, indeed, and the five sing with an intensity that smolders. Their fundamental harmonies are seasoned with grit and ballast, giving songs such as "That1⁄4s My Desire" and "Cain's Blood" a condensed earthy depth. It's a sound borne of experience.
| 2207 CD $14.98 |
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What Are They Doing (My Lord) Stretch Out My Prayer Good News Dig A Little Deeper Everybody's Gonna Have A Wonderful Time Up There (Gospel Boogie) Nothing Can Change Me (Since I Found The Lord) Jesus Thank You Jesus What A Friend We Have In Jesus It's A Blessing Not A One He's Pleading In Glory Jesus Gave Me Water Jesus, He's The One King Jesus Will Roll All Burdens Away My Eternal Home Pass Me Not Oh Gentle Savior Footprints of Jesus When I Join The Jubilee Call Him By His Name Welcome Home My Road's So Rough And Rocky I Love The Lord Deliver Me From Evil Jesus Is The First Line Of Defense Peace Of Mind Angels Tell Mother |
Founded in the early 1930s in Houston during the early 1930s by Joe Johnson and the Davis brothers, the Pilgrims had moved to Los Angeles by 1942, adding two cousins, Kylo Turner and Keith Barber. Between 1947 and 1956, they recorded over a hundred sides for Specialty Records and developed a choreographed, dynamic road show that blew away the competition. There are 29 a cappella spirituals here, from "What Are They Doing (My Lord)," "Good News," the Gospel Boogie "Everybody's Gonna Have A Wonderful Time Up There" and "Nothing Can Change Me (Since I Found The Lord)" to "My Eternal Home," "Footprints of Jesus," "Welcome Home" and "Angels Tell Mother." It's all wonderful, feel good Gospel, some of the best and most authentic we've heard. At the end is a touching plug for Gospel radio station WDIA. "Walking" is a joy! Highly Recommended.
Listen to " Call Him By His Name" in Real Audio.
| 2083 CD $15.98 |
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Famous as the group from which soul singer Lou Rawls launched his solo career, the Pilgrim Travellers were one of the most hard-working and touring gospel groups of the 1950's. This value priced double CD set captures their intensity and fervor, and the sheer force of their conviction. Their intonation and the sound quality of the recording are well above average. Songs such as "Jesus, I'm Thankful," "The Old Rugged Cross" and "I Want My Crown" are personal and heartfelt testimonials to the power of salvation. Their most popular song, "Jesus Met The Woman At The Well," a Southern Spiritual, is an American art form. Listen to " Jesus Hits like the Atom Bomb" in Real Audio.
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The "Better Than That" collection follows the CD compilation of the two "Best of the Pilgrim Travelers" and the first release by the PT in the Legends of Gospel series, "Walking Rhythm;" and it focuses the early to mid-Fifties heyday of this talented all-male quintet. At that time, they were a top draw on the Gospel circuit, booked all over the country. Art Rupe of Specialty Records issued more PT singles over their 10-year relationship than any other group, gospel or pop. "Better" is a generous, comprehensive CD of 28 cuts, including 13 never-before-released cuts. Beginning with their a cappella roots, the group gradually became more accompanied, by organ, piano, guitar, bass, saxophone and drums. Our favorites, of course, are the a cappella numbers: "Please Watch Over Me," "Long Ago (Wooden Church)," "I Never Knew Joy Before," "Leaning On The Everlasting Arm," "I’m Going Through," "How About You?," "I'll Be There (In That Number)," "All The Way (I'm Willing To Run)" and "Your Mother Is Your Friend." This is a great collection by one of the most popular Gospel groups of all time, in their prime! Listen to " Leaning on the Everlasting Arm " in Real Audio.
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The Sensational Nightingales were briefly one of the greatest quartets of gospel's golden age, and this album proves it. Almost all of the tracks on this album feature the awesome and terrifying vocals of the Reverend Julius Cheeks, the greatest gospel shouter of them all. He's the man who taught Sam Cooke to shout and was the principal inspiration for a young Wilson Pickett. Cheeks was as great an arranger as any other in quartet music (check out "Standing At The Judgement") and peppered his best work with soulful and downhome ad-libbed interjections, anticipating James Brown's funk preaching by more than ten years. A great tribute to one of the unsung heroes of American music.
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Love Lifted Me Contented If My People When the Roll is Called in Heaven Moses Smote the Water Dig a Little Deeper Steal Away Let Not Your Heart be Troubled There are Days Behold the Bridegroom The Old Ship of Zion Amazing Grace Trouble Don't Last Always Gone the Last Mile of the Way |
Pride of the Oakwood College Church in Huntsville, AL, the 16 Singing Men have been living their ministry, a commitment to "provide spiritual enrichment wherever needed" since 1977, at hospitals, churches, nursing homes and the homes of the sick. Their ministry has touched thousands, from the Huntsville-Madison area, across the nation, and internationally in England, France and Africa's Ivory Coast where they are building a medical clinic. "The Last Mile" is a powerful collection of 14 cuts, such as "Love Lifted Me," "Contented," "When the Roll is Called in Heaven," "Moses Smote the Water," the Spirituals "Steal Away" and "The Old Ship of Zion," "Amazing Grace" (with a new 3rd verse), "Trouble Don't Last Always" and the title tune, "Gone the Last Mile of the Way." This is heartfelt, sweetly harmonic authentic Gospel, as good as any we've ever heard. Treat yourself to the feel-good, inspirational "Gone The Last Mile" by the remarkable Singing Men!
Listen to Dig a Little Deeper in Real Audio
| 2493 CD $14.95 |
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The 16-strong Singing Men of Oakwood College Church, Hunstville, AL were a quartet called "Your Bible Speaks Men of Music" in 1977, providing the music for the weekly radio program "Your Bible Speaks," Realizing that they needed to broaden their ministry, they made a commitment to providing spiritual enrichment wherever needed. This mission has led them to perform in churches of all denominations around the area, to nursing homes, schools, colleges and to the homes of the sick and shut-in. Their most frequent ministry is their weekly program at the Huntsville Hospital. On a visit to Africa the group was given 100 acres of land, and they are actively raising money to build a much-needed medical clinic on it. Included on "The Creation" are 10 richly hamonied favorites, such as "Bless This House," "I Wanna Be Ready," "King Jesus Is A-Listening," "Jesus Lifted Me," "Wonderful," the title tune and "A Sweet Spirit In This Place," sung with the kind of feeling, belief and spirit that these wonderful men show every day in their lives and their ministry. A feel-good collection that touches us on many levels!
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Oakwood College Church of Huntsville, AL's 16-strong Singing Men, who have been performing their ministry of song to thousands of folks in need since forming in 1977, bring us another wonderful collection of 10 songs. "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus," "Saviour Like A Shepherd," the rousing Spiritual "Animals," "Oh Let Me Fly," the title tune, "Old Rugged Cross," "Jacob's Ladder," "Rock-A My Soul" and "Precious Lord" are a few favorites, but each of these heartfelt, richly harmonic tunes is a treat that touches, heals and inspires. "One Day" is a musical gift, as is the ongoing ministry of the amazing Singing Men! Listen to Oh Let Me Fly in Real Audio
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Will The Circle Be Unbroken Move Along Train Are You Sure Wade In The Water If I Could Hear My Mother Pray Again Glory, Glory, Hallelujah! The Lord's Prayer Jacob's Ladder Why? (Am I Treated So Bad) Praying Time For What It's Worth Hammer And Nails Freedom Highway What You Gonna Do? Samson And Delilah Nobody's Fault But Mine Be Careful Of Stones That You Throw This Train |
The Staple Singers were an American gospel, soul, and R&B singing group. Roebuck "Pops" Staples (1914-2000), the patriarch of the family, formed the group with his children Cleotha), Pervis, Yvonne, and Mavis. The family began appearing in Chicago-area churches in 1948, and signed their first professional contract in 1952. During their early career they recorded in an acoustic gospel-folk style with various labels: United Records, Vee-Jay Records, Riverside Records, and then Epic Records in 1965. While the family surname is "Staples", the group used the singular form for its name, resulting in the group's name being "The Staple Singers". This is their 1965 release on Columbia Records now available at a budget price. Most tracks are accompanied.
Listen to If I Could Hear My Mother Pray Again in Real Audio
| 2259 CD $6.95 |
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Peace In The Valley It Won't Be Very Long How Far Am I From Canaan? Just Another Day Come and Go to that Land Any Day Now He'll Make a Way Nearer to Thee Be With Me Jesus One More River I'm So Glad (Trouble Doesn't Last Always) Wonderful Farther Along Touch the Hem of His Garment Jesus Wash Away My Troubles Must Jesus Bear This Cross Alone? That's Heaven to Me Were You There? Mean Old World Lord Remember Me Lovable Forever I'll Come Running Back to You That's All I Need to Know I Don't Want to Cry |
Sam Cooke was one of the most influential singers and songwriters of the latter half of the twentieth century. Between l957 and 1965 he had 29 top 40 hits on the pop charts and 34 on the R&B charts. This recording is about his real roots as a gospel singer. As a boy he sang with two brothers and two sisters in a gospel group called the Singing Children. At age 15 he became the lead singer of the Highway Q.C.'s (yes, they became famous) which were tutored by members of the nationally renown Soul Stirrers. In return, the Highway Q.C.'s became almost like a farm club of future singers. Sam was recruited to take the place of the great R.H. Harris when he retired at the end of 1950. He proceeded to put his own stamp on the group, not only because of his voice, but the fact that he was the most prolific writer in the group. His songs include classics such as 'Nearer To Thee,' 'Be With Me Jesus,' 'Touch The Hem Of His Garment' and 'That's Heaven To Me.' This recording traces his gospel career, both unaccompanied and accompanied by small bands.
Listen to Peace In The Valley in Real Audio.
| 3345 CD $8.95 |
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Sam Cooke was one of the most influential singers and songwriters of the latter half of the twentieth century. Between l957 and 1965 he had 29 top 40 hits on the pop charts and 34 on the R&B charts. This recording is about his real roots as a gospel singer. As a boy he sang with two brothers and two sisters in a gospel group called the Singing Children. At age 15 he became the lead singer of the Highway Q.C.'s (yes, they became famous) which were tutored by members of the nationally renown Soul Stirrers. In return, the Highway Q.C.'s became almost like a farm club of future singers. Sam was recruited to take the place of the great R.H. Harris when he retired at the end of 1950. He proceeded to put his own stamp on the group, not only because of his voice, but the fact that he was the most prolific writer in the group. His songs include classics such as "Nearer To Thee," "Be With Me Jesus," "Touch The Hem Of His Garment" and "That's Heaven To Me." This recording traces his gospel career, both unaccompanied and accompanied by small bands. Listen to Peace In The Valley in Real Audio.
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It has been argued Sam Cooke made his most inspired recordings during the six years (1951 -1957) he spent as a member of the Souls Stirrers. This compact disc delves deep into the famous quarete's period with Cooke and includes some of his best-loved gospel songs. While Cooke solos on all but one of the twenty-eight tracks, also featured are the outstanding contributions of Paul Foster, J.J.Farley, Juliius Cheeks and in a rare vocal performance Souls Stirrer's guitarist Bob King. Listen to I Have a Right to the Tree of Life and Shine on Me in Real Audio.
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Prior to their debut recording session for Specialty Records in 1952, Label owner Art Rube advised the Swan Silvertones to "really shout and make everybody happier and make the old sisters fall out. Really tear down the building!". The Swans, often regarded as a "smooth" quartet, were in a stylistic transition during the three years they spent at Specialty and the company succeeded in bringing out their harder, churchier edge. These 18 selections were never previously released. Eight were recorded in the studio and ten in front of a live audience, all capturing the famous group singing and testifying as it haven't before or since. Listen to He Won't Deny Me in Real Audio.
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Walk Together Children Rock My Soul in the Bosom of Abraham Don't Stay Away I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray Trying to Get Ready The Old Ark's A-Movering Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child Ezekiel Saw the Wheel Wade In The Water I Just Got Over Meet You at the Judgement Plenty Good Room Trampin' Old Ship of Zion I'm A-Rollin When You Come out of the Wilderness My Lord's Gonna Move This Wicked Race Sweet Little Jesus Boy Until I Found the Lord I've Been 'Buked I'm Going to Sit at the Welcome Table Over My Head Where Shall I Be When the First Trumpet Sounds Amen He's All and All to Me |
Reverend Glynn T. Settle was the originator of the Wings over Jordan Choir (WOJC), which on the public scene in the late 1930s, the first full-time professional black choir in America. Proficient and versatile, during the period 1938 to 1949, the choir performed before sold-out, non-segregated audiences in over 40 American states, 5 European countries, Canada and Mexico. In 1937 the choir inaugurated a successful weekly "Negro Hour" on CBS Radio in Cleveland, reaching 40 million listeners. WOJC's segment of spirituals would be followed by the Southernaires Quartet, and then the Golden Gate Quartet. A songbook was published and over 50 recordings came from this program, performances with major symphonic orchestras and an invitation to sing at the White House. Reverend Settle narrates in this rare collection, saying things like "It's not because I'm a coward and afraid to defend myself that I smilingly take the many abuses forced upon me through life. The fact is, I pity and pray for those who despitefully mistreat me. You may wonder about my attitude. Well, the answer is very simple. I am busy trying to get ready to try on my long white robe." Gospel Friend records is releasing this wonderful collection of 25 authentic spirituals, accompanied by fascinating pictures and text in the liner notes (one of our favorites is several members of the group all dressed up in front of their spanking-new tour bus, "Wings Over Jordan" proudly on the front). There are several spirituals we are hearing for the first time, such as "The Old Ark's A-Movering," "My Lord's Gonna Move This Wicked Race," the joyous "I Just Got Over," "Meet You at the Judgement," "Trampin'," "Over My Head" and others. And then there are tunes we've heard many times, such as "Rock My Soul in the Bosom of Abraham," "Ezekiel Saw the Wheel," "Wade in the Water," "Old Ship of Zion" and "Sweet Little Jesus Boy," but it's as if we are hearing them for the first time. "Trying to Get Ready" is a treat on many levels, from beginning to end. Don't miss this one!
Listen to The Old Ark's A-Movering in Real Audio
| 2526 CD $16.95 |
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This recording is the music originally performed by the Fisk Jubilee Singers. You no doubt have heard the term jubilee singing referring to quartet music coming out of the south in the thirties and forties. It all started on the day of Jubilee, the day the slaves were freed. Striving for education had been an underground pursuit during slavery. One school established for the freed, Fisk College of Nashville, TN, opened six months after the end of the Civil War. In the struggle to save the school from economic collapse, the school's treasurer and music teacher, George L. White, took a group of his students on the road to raise funds in the North. The original repertoire was ballads, arias and a few other popular and choral songs of the day. They went on faith, seemingly doomed to failure, until one day they performed some of their special songs, "Steal Away" and "Swing Low Sweet Chariot." The response was overwhelming. Ultimately the school was saved and the Fisk Jubilee Singers went on to become the first Black international singing stars. This is their music, performed by five very special choral groups. Songlist Listen to Roll, Jordan, Roll in Real Audio.
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African American congregational singing styles are rooted in the nineteenth century but continue to be created as a vital part of community worship services throughout the United States. This recording of ring shouts, lined hymns, and call-and-response devotional songs honors these beginnings and demonstrates how vividly these styles endure.
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A local perspective of sacred music from two regions: Alabama and Washington, D.C. Singers include The Gospel Harmonettes: Jesus Is on the Mainline; Donald Vails and the Celebration Delegation: Lead Me, Guide Me; and The Bible Way Temple Radio Choir: Yes, Lord.
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Home In The Sky (Wingman Quartet) Let Me Ride The Chariot (Wingman Quartet) Shelter In The Time Of Storm (Wingman Quartet) Sorrow Valley (Nightengale Jubalaires) Dig A Little Deeper (Nightengale Jubalaires) Rough And Rocky Road (Nightengale Jubalaires) Standing By The Bedside Of A Neighbor (Nightengale Jubalaires) Stand By Me (Stars of Harmony) Today (Stars of Harmony) Where Shall I Be (Stars of Harmony) Jesus Met The Woman At The Well (Stars of Harmony) There Are Some Things (Stars of Harmony) I Know The Lord (Kansas City Gospel Singers) My Soul Is A Witness (Kansas City Gospel Singers) I'm On My Way (Kansas City Gospel Singers) Trouble All About My Soul (Kansas City Gospel Singers) Walk Around (Soul Stirrers) He's My Rock (Soul Stirrers) Precious Lord (Soul Stirrers) Freedom After A While (Soul Stirrers) |
If you're a fan of a cappella gospel from the 1930s and '40s, you won't want to miss this CD! Best known of the five groups is the Soul Stirrers, who are credited with reshaping gospel and paving the way for modern R&B. Their historic first recordings are here and have never before been rereleased on CD.
| 3311 CD $14.98 |
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Daniel in the lions' den (Norfolk Juilee Quartette) I got a Home in that Rock (T.C.I. Women's Four) Jog a-long boys (Pullman Porters Quartette) So glad I've got the stone (Bethel Quartet) Jesus, the light of the world (Bethel Quartet) I am a Pilgrim (Silver Leaf Quartette Of Norfolk) Our Father (Silver Leaf Quartette Of Norfolk) My soul is a witness for my Lord (Silver Leaf Quartette Of Norfolk) You better let that Liar Alone (Silver Leaf Quartette Of Norfolk) Sleep on, Mother (Silver Leaf Quartette Of Norfolk) The ship is at the landing (Silver Leaf Quartette Of Norfolk) I'm Going Home on the Chickasaw train (I.C. Glee Quartet) Do you want to be a lover of the Lord (Davis Bible Singers) Daniel Saw the Stone (Davis Bible Singers) Light of the World (Davis Bible Singers) I'm leaning on the Lord (Famous Blue Jay Singers of Birmingham Alabama) New Dry Bones (Heavenly Gospel Singers) Going back with Jesus (Heavenly Gospel Singers) A Warrior on the Battlefield (Golden Eagle Gospel Singers) The Prodigal Son (Golden Eagle Gospel Singers) Jonah (Golden Gate Quartet) Found a wonderful Savior (Golden Gate Quartet) Blind Barnabus (Golden Gate Quartet) He Never said a Mumblin' Word (Golden Gate Quartet) Run On (Golden Gate Quartet) |
Leading up to the emergence of doo-wop was the tradition of black quartet singing. It is one of the major tributaries of our musical evolution which led to rock 'n roll and R&B which led to... But we digress. Let's go back to the quartets. Between the World Wars was a period during which this style evolved from the schoolyards and churches of the southern Atlantic seaboard to finally become the sophisticated sounds of groups like the Golden Gate Quartet and the Silver Leaf Quartet Of Norfolk. This recording traces that evolution with some early, raw recordings from quartets at the beginning of the movement and lots of the highly sophisticated groups of the later years. It is a historian's dream as well as a testament to the human spirit. The accompanying booklet has wonderful notes to leave you much richer for the experience.
| 3358 CD $14.98 |
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Standing by the Bedside of a Neighbor - Golden Gate Jubilee Quartet Listen to the Lambs - Golden Gate Jubilee Quartet Precious Lord - Kings Harmony God Shall Wipe All Tears Away - Kings Harmony I'm Bound for Canaan Land - Blue Jay Singers Standing Out on the Highway - Blue Jay Singers Well, Well, Well - Soul Stirrers I'm Gonna Tell God - Soul Stirrers Here Am I, Do Lord Send Me - Georgia Peach & The Harmonies Where the Sun Will Never Go Down - Georgia Peach & The Harmonies The Lord Will Make a Way - Griffin, Bessie Any Stars in My Crown - Golden Harps I'll Make It Somehow - Golden Harps They Led My Lord Away - Williams, Marion All of My Appointed Time - Williams, Marion Groves Show Intro - Golden Gate Quartet Polly Wolly Doodle - Golden Gate Quartet Old Kentucky Home - Golden Gate Quartet On a Mornin' - Golden Gate Quartet The "Groves Show" presents The Golden Gate Quartet Take Your Time Miss Lucy - Golden Gate Quartet Oh, Noah - Golden Gate Quartet Stewball - Golden Gate Quartet Grove Show Signoff - Golden Gate Quartet Hit the Road to Dreamland - Golden Gate Quartet I've Got a Home in That Rock - Charioteers Caledonia - Charioteers Open the Door, Richard - Charioteers Sittin' & A Rockin' - Delta Rhythm Boys |
What we have here is a gospel lover's advanced degree, in 71 minutes of music made up of 28 songs. The CD includes the entire album entitled All Of My Appointed Time (Forty years of A Cappella Gospel Singing). But that's not all! Part II includes rare and unissued transcriptions by Jubilee-influenced groups of the l940's. Among the male groups are the Golden Gate Quartet, The Kings Of Harmony, The Blue Jay Singers and The Soul Stirerrs with the fabulous R.H. Harris who coached Sam Cooke. Sam went on to join the Soul Stirerrs which was the beginning of his career. Among the women singers you will hear The Georgia Peach (Clara Hudman) who first recorded with the Atlanta congregation of the Rev. J.M. Gates. Additionally, you will find recordings by Bessie Griffin, Jeanette Harris and The Golden Harps and Marion Williams. Just think, a musicology degree in 71 minutes!
| 3310 CD $14.98 |
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Just Tell Me Jesus (Joiner's Five Trumpets) Where Can I Go (Joiner's Five Trumpets) This Changing World (Joiner's Five Trumpets) Freedom After Awhile (Joiner's Five Trumpets) When They Ring the Golden Bells (Southern Tornadoes) Satisfied (Southern Tornadoes) Another Building (Southern Tornadoes) Toll the Bell Easy (Southern Tornadoes) How About You (Southern Tornadoes) Will the Circle Be Unbroken (Southern Tornadoes) All I Need (Southern Tornadoes) Precious Memories (Southern Tornadoes) Glory to His Name (Veteran Singers) Leaning on Jesus (Veteran Singers) He'll Never Let Go (Veteran Singers) How Much More (Veteran Singers) Lord Is Riding (Veteran Singers) On the Battlefield (Veteran Singers) Lay Down My Burden (Spiritualaires) Love of Jesus in My Heart (Spiritualaires) Heaven How Do You Do (Spiritualaires) Our Prayer (Spiritualaires) He's So Good to Me (Spiritualaires) Heaven How Do You Do (Spiritualaires) Lay Down My Burden (Spiritualaires) |
United Records was one of the first successful black-owned record companies and was operated by Leonard Allen, a former policeman. With impecable taste Allen recorded some of the best performances of the top jazz, gospel and R&B acts between 1951 and 1957, especially in the Chicago area. This recording features some of United mightest gospel quartets who by this time had introduced a more modern sound that had taken the place of the more conservative jubilee tradition, and included knee-drop, ad-lib interjections, swing lead and exaggerated vocal ornamentation. Great stuff!
| 3019 CD $15.98 |
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While students of American a cappella history can find many re-issues of gospel groups from the 1930's and beyond, this import from Austria is one of the few that captures the music from the roaring '20s. Of the four groups represented here, The Sunset Four were most productive with 13 of the 25 songs on CD They have snippets of future bass imitation on "Jerusalem Morn" and barbershop - like chord ringing on "Didn't He Ramble." But perhaps "Barnum's Steam Calliope" is most notable, for its unique vocal imitation of the famed circus instrument. The audio quality reflects the fact that old (and sometimes scratched) '78s were used to make the CD, but anyone interested in early 20th Century a cappella will happily overlook those flaws because of the unique performances captured here, all but two are a cappella.
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Precious Lord Noah Soul Stirrer's Medley There Must Be A City Old Time Religion Landed On The Shore Doctor Jesus I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray Sit Down Servant I've Got Heaven On My Mind Doctor Jesus Count It As A Blessing I'm Going With The Lord Glory Halleltjah |
For the first time on video, legendary quartet singers like The Fairfield Four, Luther Barnes and The Sunset Jublilaires, The Swanee Quintet, The Racy Brothers, Robert Blair and The Fantastic Violinaires, Martin Jacox and Willie Rogers and Company, come together to pay tribute to one another and to pioneer gospel quartets. Hosted by Lou Rawls, who began his career as a quartet singer, covers a century of the music and history that have made the quartet one of the most beloved styles of music. All these living legends share the same stage, taking their turns at the microphone, with a backup band in a church-like concert hall with an enthusiastic audience. 15 tunes, with a lot of old photos and history in between, presented by Rawls. "Precious Lord" is by the whole company, "Noah," "There Must Be A City," and "I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray" by the Fairfield Four, "Soul Stirrers Medley" and "Landed on the Shore" by Martin Jacox, Willie Rogers & Co., "Old Time Religion" and "Doctor Jesus" by Robert Blair and the Fantastic Violinaires," "Sit Down Servant" and "Doctor Jesus" by the Swanee Quintet, "Somebody Touched Me" and "Count It As A Blessing" by The Racy Brothers, "I've Got Heaven on My Mind" and "I'm Going on With the Lord" by Luther Barnes and The Sunset Jubilaires, and the final "Glory Hallelujah" by the assembled groups. This is great authentic gospel music by masters who are still with us, fascinating history and old photos—"Living Legends" is a joy!
| 3020 DVD $14.98 |
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