This article is for our Dad who made us listen to every gospel quartet in the world when we were younger! This rich and necessary genre of the gospel world has laid the foundation for many great artists to come. Check out some of the best of the quartet genre.
The Soul Stirrers (1926)
"Be With Me Jesus" - One of the smoothest performances in Gospel...slightly contemporary before the genre existed. Sam Cooke, Johnnie Taylor, and Lou Rawls had all the elements of crossover appeal that would later be adopted by Aretha Franklin, The Winans and The Clark Sisters.
Other songs: "Jesus Gave Me Water", "By and By", "Amen" and "Touch The Hem Of His Garment"
The Canton Spirituals (1943)
"Ride This Train" - An amazing version of one of the most beloved Gospel symbols (the train). "Come along my friends, come along. Get aboard and ride this train..."
Other hits: "Glad I Got Jesus", "Strugglin & Stranin'", "Fix It Jesus" and "Heavenly Choir"
The Mighty Clouds Of Joy (1960)
"Showing Each Other Love" - One of the most amazing songs in Gospel music. The inspirational message behind it propels listeners to step out of themselves to help others. It's a catalyst for ushering in contemporary Gospel with themes including "loving one another". The remnants of The Clouds can be seen in Yolanda Adams, Cece Winans, and Donnie McClurkin.
Other songs: "Walk Around Heaven", "Heavy Load", "Nobody Can Turn Me Around" and "I Came To Jesus"
The Jackson Southernaires (1964)
"I Need You To Hold My Hand" - One of the most classic Gospel songs of all time. We're sure that every men's chorus has performed this standard.
Other hits: "Jesus Can Work It Out", "Can't Make It By Myself", "Somebody Heard Me" and "Your Grace And Mercy"
The Gospel Hummingbirds (1975)
"Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" - A monster of vocal combination. The Hummingbirds have a very unique sound in their vocal continuity. This is one of the finest performances of the genre.
Other songs: "Change", "Step Out", "That Same Thing" and "He'll Be Your Friend"
The Winans (1980)
"Millions" - The most famous and successful of all the gospel quartets came from the first family of Gospel Music. The Winans have spawned hit after hit after hit from their solo careers to the amazing sounds of 4 brothers with expert harmonies and lyrical greatness.
Other songs: "Question Is", "It's Time", "Count It All Joy", "Ain't No Need To Worry", "Tomorrow" and "Let My People Go"





































