What is most significant is that both groups feel the concerts of today don't measure up to those of the past. It verifies what I have been feeling for a long time - southern gospel is on a decline from which I feel it may not recover. It will probably continue in name, but its distinctive styple of music is becoming a thing of the past. Already much of what is called southern gospel doesn't sound a thing like it.
Clarence Coffey - 12 years ago
I forgot to mention the original Cathedral Quartet. All of them former members of the Weatherford Qt. This Qt formed in about 64 or 65 with the addition of George Younce. He joined Bobby Clark, an awesome tenor, Glenn Payne and Danny Koker, a great pianist, baritone and arranger all in one package.
clarence coffey - 12 years ago
I voted for the 60s simply because the sound systems were a little better and Jake Hess formed the Imperials in late 63. Overall the talent level was higher in the 50s of any decade. After WWII this genre exploded with a talent and performance level far exceeding anything since. The Blackwood Bros, Statesmen, Weatherford Qt, Jordanaires, Homeland Harmony, Harmoneers and the Rangers still performed at a high level until the mid 50s.I forgot to mention the Swanee River Boys and The Speer Family. The Couriers came along in the early 60s I believe. All those groups had loads of talent--like the Crusaders of the 50s.
Ruth Hirsch - 12 years ago
I loved those Cathedrals. I love a lot of the groups now but nothing has risen to the Cathedral's style and sincerety.
Mary Crupper - 12 years ago
Singers seemed to be more sincere in singing for the Lord. Concerts were more affordable in our area. To me it all seems like a show with most of them anymore. Sorry for the way I feel.
What is most significant is that both groups feel the concerts of today don't measure up to those of the past. It verifies what I have been feeling for a long time - southern gospel is on a decline from which I feel it may not recover. It will probably continue in name, but its distinctive styple of music is becoming a thing of the past. Already much of what is called southern gospel doesn't sound a thing like it.
I forgot to mention the original Cathedral Quartet. All of them former members of the Weatherford Qt. This Qt formed in about 64 or 65 with the addition of George Younce. He joined Bobby Clark, an awesome tenor, Glenn Payne and Danny Koker, a great pianist, baritone and arranger all in one package.
I voted for the 60s simply because the sound systems were a little better and Jake Hess formed the Imperials in late 63. Overall the talent level was higher in the 50s of any decade. After WWII this genre exploded with a talent and performance level far exceeding anything since. The Blackwood Bros, Statesmen, Weatherford Qt, Jordanaires, Homeland Harmony, Harmoneers and the Rangers still performed at a high level until the mid 50s.I forgot to mention the Swanee River Boys and The Speer Family. The Couriers came along in the early 60s I believe. All those groups had loads of talent--like the Crusaders of the 50s.
I loved those Cathedrals. I love a lot of the groups now but nothing has risen to the Cathedral's style and sincerety.
Singers seemed to be more sincere in singing for the Lord. Concerts were more affordable in our area. To me it all seems like a show with most of them anymore. Sorry for the way I feel.