Longevity in Southern Gospel

  Let me say first, I am no historian of Gospel Music. Also, I am not a researcher into deep guarded secrets of Gospel Music. I know what I know, so the information will be cursory, some vague, and some of the info, you may already know.

Without a doubt, there is longevity in the ranks of Southern Gospel Artists. Yes, there are some that start out and finally make it to the national stage and then fall away. This may be because of the schedule demands, travel logistics, or some other internal issues or decision. There are however, many Southern Gospel group and individuals that have travelled and ministered for decades.

 

Right off the cuff is The Cathedrals, they sang into retirement for 37 years. The Hoppers are still going strong and have celebrated 63 years, while the Perry’s announced just last week that on Christmas day, they began their ministry 50 years ago.

 

Another group from just down the road in Nashville, Georgia began their 37 year on Christmas Eve, The group’s name is The Keffers, and Gary Keffer, his wife Lind, son, Paul, and daughter-in-law Jessica keep the ministry going while their daughter, Amy occasionally sings but writes songs for them and many other artists.

 

Others include the Gaither Vocal Band, Greater Vision, Karen Peck and New River. The GVB has seen many changes through the years but have been singing since 1980, that’s right, 40 years. Greater Vision began 30 years ago during this holiday season. Karen Peck began New River a year later in 1991.

 

We cannot forget the McKameys, 65 years of ministry on stages all over the country, they retired in 2019, and are still having charting success with their last album. Sue Dodge began her career in 1969, 51 years ago, she still has a powerhouse voice, and is showing no signs of slowing down. Ivan Parker began singing in 1982 some 38 years ago, Joseph Habedank began his career with the Perrys in 2003, a mere 17 years ago, but has amassed many awards, nominations and fans around the world.

 

Shortly after February of 1989, a raspy voiced Michael Combs came into the music ministry and despite many health-related setbacks, continues to sing. I could mention the Statemen, the Stamps and many others, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the longest running group in America. The Blackwood Brothers began in 1934, of course, they too have seen members come and go. Some tragically, others a transition to one place or another, but to be on the road for… 86 years, one will no doubt see a lot of changes. 

 

So, some may feel like Southern Gospel is dead, or dying, I boldly say that because of the longevity of our founders and new comers we’re in good hands, and I think this music will be around for many more years to come, but that’s just my Southern Gospel Point of View.