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The '''Gaither Vocal Band''' is an American ] vocal group, named after its founder and leader ]. On March 1, 2017, it was announced that the Gaither Vocal Band lineup consisted of Reggie Smith, ], Adam Crabb, Todd Suttles, and Bill Gaither. Although the group started out recording ] in the 1980s, it became known for southern gospel after the popularity of the ] videos.<ref>{{cite web|title=Gaither Vocal Band|url=http://vovtz.wordpress.com/gaither-vocal-band/|access-date=November 1, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110921065556/http://vovtz.wordpress.com/gaither-vocal-band/|archive-date=September 21, 2011}}</ref> The '''Gaither Vocal Band''' is an American ] vocal group, named after its founder and leader ]. On March 1, 2017, it was announced that the Gaither Vocal Band lineup consisted of Reggie Smith, ], Adam Crabb, Todd Suttles, and Bill Gaither. Although the group started out recording ] in the 1980s, it became known for southern gospel after the popularity of the '']'' videos.<ref>{{cite web|title=Gaither Vocal Band|url=http://vovtz.wordpress.com/gaither-vocal-band/|access-date=November 1, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110921065556/http://vovtz.wordpress.com/gaither-vocal-band/|archive-date=September 21, 2011}}</ref>


The lineup of the band changes often, with artists leaving to work on solo careers, and new and old ones coming to replace them. Besides Gaither, singers with the longest tenure in the band include ] (1995–2009), ] (1988–2001, 2009–14), ] (1985–94, 2009–14), ] (1997–2005, 2009–17) and ] (2005–present). The lineup of the band has changed many times, with artists leaving to work on solo careers, and new and old ones coming to replace them. Besides Gaither, singers with the longest tenure in the band include ] (1995–2009), ] (1988–2001, 2009–14), ] (1985–94, 2009–14), ] (1997–2005, 2009–17) and ] (2005–present).


The band has released 29 albums (not including compilations), at least 19 of which have charted. The band has also released 10 DVDs, which feature many other Christian artists as well. The Gaither Vocal Band has been honored with two ] and 17 ]. The band has released 29 albums (not including compilations), at least 19 of which have charted. The band has also released 10 DVDs, which feature many other Christian artists as well. The Gaither Vocal Band has been honored with two ] and 17 ].
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==History== ==History==
===Beginnings=== ===Beginnings===
The Gaither Vocal Band is named after gospel legend and leader ].<ref name="pbs">{{cite web |url=https://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/episodes/august-28-2009/gaither-gospel-singers/4081/ |title=August 28, 2009 ~ Gaither Gospel Singers &#124; Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly |publisher=PBS |date=August 28, 2009 |access-date=August 13, 2012}}</ref> It was the successor-group of the ]. By the 1980s, Bill Gaither, along with wife ], were both very successful ]s.<ref name="allmusic">{{cite web|url=http://www.allmusic.com/artist/bill-gaither-p2283/biography|title=Bill Gaither – Biography, Albums, Streaming Links – AllMusic|website=]}}</ref> For example, their song, "He Touched Me" was covered by ], after which he even named his album '']''. Presley won a Grammy for the album.<ref name="elvis">{{cite web|last=Bush |first=John |url=http://www.allmusic.com/album/r15661 |title=He Touched Me – Elvis Presley : Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards |publisher=AllMusic |access-date=August 13, 2012}}</ref> Bill Gaither felt that his trio had reached its peak in the mid-1980s, but his desire to make another gospel hit kept the trio going.<ref name="pbs"/> The Gaither Vocal Band is named after gospel leader ].<ref name="pbs">{{cite web |url=https://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/episodes/august-28-2009/gaither-gospel-singers/4081/ |title=August 28, 2009 ~ Gaither Gospel Singers &#124; Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly |publisher=PBS |date=August 28, 2009 |access-date=August 13, 2012}}</ref> It was the successor-group of the ]. By the 1980s, Bill Gaither, along with wife ], were both very successful ]s.<ref name="allmusic">{{cite web|url=http://www.allmusic.com/artist/bill-gaither-p2283/biography|title=Bill Gaither – Biography, Albums, Streaming Links – AllMusic|website=]}}</ref> For example, their song, "He Touched Me" was covered by ], after which he named his album '']''. Presley won a Grammy for the album.<ref name="elvis">{{cite web|last=Bush |first=John |url=http://www.allmusic.com/album/r15661 |title=He Touched Me – Elvis Presley : Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards |publisher=AllMusic |access-date=August 13, 2012}}</ref> Bill Gaither felt that his trio had reached its peak in the mid-1980s, but his desire to make another gospel hit kept the trio going.<ref name="pbs"/>


The original Vocal Band (called the ''New'' Gaither Vocal Band) was formed spontaneously, backstage of a Gaither Trio concert. It consisted of Bill Gaither and ] of the trio, along with two of the trio's backup singers, ] and Lee Young. The quartet sang "Your First Day in Heaven" on stage that night.<ref>{{cite web|title=Gaither Vocal Band|url=http://www.singers.com/gospel/gaithervocalband.html|publisher=United Singers International|access-date=May 16, 2011}}</ref> Their debut album, the self-titled ''The New Gaither Vocal Band'', debuted in 1981. The original Vocal Band (called the ''New'' Gaither Vocal Band) was formed spontaneously, backstage of a Gaither Trio concert. It consisted of Bill Gaither and ] of the trio, along with two of the trio's backup singers, ] and Lee Young. The quartet sang "Your First Day in Heaven" on stage that night.<ref>{{cite web|title=Gaither Vocal Band|url=http://www.singers.com/gospel/gaithervocalband.html|publisher=United Singers International|access-date=May 16, 2011}}</ref> Their debut album, the self-titled ''The New Gaither Vocal Band'', debuted in 1981.
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According to the liner notes of the CD compilation ''The Best of the GVB'', the term "vocal band" was used instead of "quartet" because it did not limit Gaither in terms of sound or number of group members. According to Green on the Gaither Vocal Band Reunion video, he came up with the name and convinced Gaither to use it because he, at the time, did not want to be associated with "quartet music".{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} According to the liner notes of the CD compilation ''The Best of the GVB'', the term "vocal band" was used instead of "quartet" because it did not limit Gaither in terms of sound or number of group members. According to Green on the Gaither Vocal Band Reunion video, he came up with the name and convinced Gaither to use it because he, at the time, did not want to be associated with "quartet music".{{citation needed|date=September 2016}}


Young left the group in 1982, and Jon Mohr was hired as the new bass singer. They then recorded the album ''Passin' The Faith Along''. Later, tenor Green left and ] was hired. This group cut the ''New Point Of View'' album before Mohr left. Young left the group in 1982, and Jon Mohr was hired as the new bass singer. They then recorded the album ''Passin' the Faith Along''. Later, tenor Green left and ] was hired. This group cut the ''New Point Of View'' album before Mohr left.


===Widespread popularity=== ===Widespread popularity===
] was hired as the new lead singer, so McSpadden was moved down to baritone, and Gaither dropped to bass. At this point the group dropped the "new" part of their name. Although the previous album (''New Point of View'') had been more contemporary than its predecessors, the album with this version of the group (''One X 1'') took it even further. After this album, Larnelle left and was replaced by Lemuel Miller. The group did not record an album with Miller before he too left. He was replaced by ] alumnus, Jim Murray. This line up cut one album (''Wings'') before McSpadden left to start his solo career. ] was convinced to replace him. Along with a great voice, Lowry added comedy to the mix. Their Gospel roots project ''Homecoming'' in 1991 caused most Southern Gospel fans to welcome the Vocal Band with open arms. Murray left and was replaced by ]. The album ''Southern Classics'' was released in 1993 with the hit "I Bowed On My Knees" (This song was co-writers by Jeremy Ward). ] was hired as the new lead singer, so McSpadden was moved down to baritone, and Gaither dropped to bass. At this point the group dropped the "new" part of their name. Although the previous album (''New Point of View'') had been more contemporary than its predecessors, the album with this version of the group (''One X 1'') took it even further. After this album, Harris left and was replaced by Lemuel Miller. The group did not record an album with Miller before he too left. He was replaced by ] alumnus Jim Murray. This line up cut one album (''Wings'') before McSpadden left to start his solo career. ] was convinced to replace him. Their Gospel roots project ''Homecoming'' was released in 1991. Murray left and was replaced by ]. The album ''Southern Classics'' was released in 1993 with the hit "I Bowed on My Knees" (This song was co-written by Jeremy Ward).


Later English left. He was replaced by Buddy Mullins. Mullins was only a temporary fill-in, but he was included on the album ''Testify''. Franklin soon left and was replaced by yet another Imperials alumnus, ] (formerly known as Jonathan Hildreth, his first and last name, then changed to his first and middle name). Strengthened by the popularity of the ''Homecoming'' video series, the Vocal Band added ] at lead. After Pierce's departure, Gaither hired ] at tenor. After Lowry's departure, Imperials alumnus ] sang baritone for a couple of years. ] was his replacement. ] succeeded Phelps in 2005. Later English left. He was replaced by Buddy Mullins. Mullins was only a temporary fill-in, but he was included on the album ''Testify''. Franklin soon left and was replaced by yet another Imperials alumnus, ] (formerly known as Jonathan Hildreth, his first and last name, then changed to his first and middle name). Strengthened by the popularity of the ''Homecoming'' video series, the Vocal Band added ] at lead. After Pierce's departure, Gaither hired ] at tenor. After Lowry's departure, Imperials alumnus ] sang baritone for a couple of years. ] was his replacement. ] succeeded Phelps in 2005.
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===Reunion=== ===Reunion===
In July 2008, the vocal band recorded a reunion DVD at the Gaither Studios — ''The Gaither Vocal Band Reunion, Volumes 1 and 2''. Except for ], Franklin, and Miller, the former and present members appeared and performed. The two CDs debuted in the top two positions on ''Billboard''{{'}}s Contemporary Christian Album chart, marking the Gaither Vocal Band's first No. 1 on the Christian Album chart. The DVDs of the same title debuted in the No. 1 and No. 2 positions on the Music Video charts as well. It also garnered a ] for Best Southern, Country, Bluegrass Gospel Album.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Gaither Vocal Band Receives Early Valentines |url=http://www.gospelmusicupdate.com/_news/gvbgrammybillboard.shtm |publisher=The Judy Nelon Group |access-date=February 9, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110711113210/http://www.gospelmusicupdate.com/_news/gvbgrammybillboard.shtm |archive-date=July 11, 2011 }}</ref> In July 2008, the vocal band recorded a reunion DVD at the Gaither Studios — ''The Gaither Vocal Band Reunion, Volumes 1 and 2''. Except for Pierce, Franklin, and Miller, the former and present members appeared and performed. The two CDs debuted in the top two positions on ''Billboard''{{'}}s Contemporary Christian Album chart, marking the Gaither Vocal Band's first No. 1 on the Christian Album chart. The DVDs of the same title debuted in the No. 1 and No. 2 positions on the Music Video charts as well. It also garnered a ] for Best Southern, Country, Bluegrass Gospel Album.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Gaither Vocal Band Receives Early Valentines |url=http://www.gospelmusicupdate.com/_news/gvbgrammybillboard.shtm |publisher=The Judy Nelon Group |access-date=February 9, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110711113210/http://www.gospelmusicupdate.com/_news/gvbgrammybillboard.shtm |archive-date=July 11, 2011 }}</ref>


===The quintet=== ===The quintet===
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] ]


In January 2009, Marshall Hall and Guy Penrod left. Gaither brought back some former members: Michael English as lead vocal, Mark Lowry as baritone and David Phelps as tenor. The first album by this five-member version was '']'', released in September 2009. It was also the first album of the vocal band ever to feature only songs written by Bill and Gloria Gaither. A live album called ''Better Day'' was released in January 2010. In August 2010, they released the long-awaited album called ''Greatly Blessed'', followed by ''I Am A Promise'', a children's album, released in August 2011. Their most recent album was ''Pure & Simple'', released in September 2012. In January 2009, Hall and Penrod left. Gaither brought back some former members: English as lead vocal, Lowry as baritone and Phelps as tenor. The first album by this five-member version was '']'', released in September 2009. It was also the first album of the vocal band ever to feature only songs written by Bill and Gloria Gaither. A live album called ''Better Day'' was released in January 2010. In August 2010, they released the long-awaited album called ''Greatly Blessed'', followed by ''I Am A Promise'', a children's album, released in August 2011. Their most recent album was ''Pure & Simple'', released in September 2012.


In October 2013, it was announced that Mark Lowry and Michael English would be leaving the group to devote more time to their solo careers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/announcing-gaither-vocal-band-personnel-changes|title=Announcing... Gaither Vocal Band Personnel Changes|first=Gaither|last=Music}}</ref> Michael English's departure was immediate, while Mark Lowry remained in the group until the end of the year. Their last album as members, ''Hymns'', was released in March 2014<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/gaither-vocal-band-hymns-preorder|title=Gaither Vocal Band: Hymns Preorder|first=Gaither|last=Music}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://store.gaither.com/gvb-hymns-cd.html |title=GVB: Hymns CD |access-date=March 4, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140309054252/http://store.gaither.com/gvb-hymns-cd.html |archive-date=March 9, 2014 }}</ref> and was nominated for a ] the following December.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/grammy-nomination-gvb|title=Grammy Nomination for GVB|first=Gaither|last=Music}}</ref> After their departure, In January 2014, several guests filled-in until two new members could be found. In January 2014, it was announced that Adam Crabb (of ]) would join the group as the fourth member and lead / baritone singer.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Gaither Vocal Band Welcomes Adam Crabb!| website=] |url= https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152118249786187&set=a.449334111186.236450.198226576186&type=1&stream_ref=10|access-date=January 10, 2014}}</ref> Todd Suttles joined the group as the baritone / bass singer one month later.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/new-era-begins-gaither-vocal-band|title=A New Era Begins For The Gaither Vocal Band|first=Gaither|last=Music}}</ref> In October 2013, it was announced that Lowry and English would be leaving the group to devote more time to their solo careers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/announcing-gaither-vocal-band-personnel-changes|title=Announcing... Gaither Vocal Band Personnel Changes|first=Gaither|last=Music}}</ref> English's departure was immediate whereas Lowry stayed on until they could find another baritone to replace him. Their last album as members, ''Hymns'', was released in March 2014<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/gaither-vocal-band-hymns-preorder|title=Gaither Vocal Band: Hymns Preorder|first=Gaither|last=Music}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://store.gaither.com/gvb-hymns-cd.html |title=GVB: Hymns CD |access-date=March 4, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140309054252/http://store.gaither.com/gvb-hymns-cd.html |archive-date=March 9, 2014 }}</ref> and was nominated for a ] the following December.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/grammy-nomination-gvb|title=Grammy Nomination for GVB|first=Gaither|last=Music}}</ref> After their departure, several guests filled-in until two new members could be found. In January 2014, it was announced that Adam Crabb (of ]) would join the group as the fourth member and lead singer.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Gaither Vocal Band Welcomes Adam Crabb!| website=] |url= https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10152118249786187&set=a.449334111186.236450.198226576186&type=1&stream_ref=10|access-date=January 10, 2014}}</ref> Todd Suttles joined the group as the baritone singer one month later.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/new-era-begins-gaither-vocal-band|title=A New Era Begins For The Gaither Vocal Band|first=Gaither|last=Music|access-date=February 18, 2014|archive-date=February 28, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140228184606/http://gaither.com/news/new-era-begins-gaither-vocal-band|url-status=dead}}</ref>


Following their formation, the new quintet would go on to release a limited edition album, ''The New Edition'', which could only be purchased at concert performances. In October 2014, the group released their first album together, entitled ''Sometimes it Takes a Mountain''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/new-gaither-vocal-band-cd-releasing-october|title=New Gaither Vocal Band CD Releasing this October!|first=Gaither|last=Music}}</ref> Five months later, that album was followed by a two-DVD live performance release and the release of their second album (a live performance album), ''Happy Rhythm''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/2-new-gaither-vocal-band-releases|title=2 New Gaither Vocal Band Releases!|first=Gaither|last=Music}}</ref> Upon release, the DVDs debuted at the top of ''Billboard''{{'}}s Music Video chart (''Sometimes it Takes a Mountain'' at #1 and ''Happy Rhythm'' at #2).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/new-dvds-top-billboard-1-2|title=New DVDs Top Billboard at #1 & #2!|first=Gaither|last=Music}}</ref> In August 2016, the group's album ''Better Together'' was released. Following their formation, the new quintet would go on to release a limited edition album, ''The New Edition'', which could only be purchased at concert performances. In October 2014, the group released their first album together, entitled ''Sometimes it Takes a Mountain''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/new-gaither-vocal-band-cd-releasing-october|title=New Gaither Vocal Band CD Releasing this October!|first=Gaither|last=Music}}</ref> Five months later, that album was followed by a two-DVD live performance release and the release of their second album (a live performance album), ''Happy Rhythm''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/2-new-gaither-vocal-band-releases|title=2 New Gaither Vocal Band Releases!|first=Gaither|last=Music}}</ref> Upon release, the DVDs debuted at the top of ''Billboard''{{'}}s Music Video chart (''Sometimes it Takes a Mountain'' at #1 and ''Happy Rhythm'' at #2).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gaither.com/news/new-dvds-top-billboard-1-2|title=New DVDs Top Billboard at #1 & #2!|first=Gaither|last=Music}}</ref> In August 2016, the group's album ''Better Together'' was released.


In March 2017, it was announced that David Phelps would be leaving the group on April 1, and Reggie Smith would join the group as tenor. In March 2017, it was announced that Phelps would be leaving the group on April 1, and Reggie Smith would join the group as tenor.


In October 2017, this line-up released their first studio album, entitled ''We Have This Moment''. In October 2017, this line-up released their first studio album, entitled ''We Have This Moment''.


In October 2018, there was another Gaither Vocal Band Reunion. It was a two-day concert, recorded live. Except for Steve Green, Terry Franklin, Lemuel Miller & Jonathan Pierce, all of the past and present members who were at the first reunion performed.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.premierproductions.com/blog/bill-gaither-announces-gaither-vocal-band-reunion-live-concert-event|title=Bill Gaither Announces Gaither Vocal Band Reunion - Live Concert Event! |date=April 10, 2018|work=Premier Productions|access-date=October 7, 2018 |language=en}}</ref> In October 2018, there was another Gaither Vocal Band Reunion. It was a two-day concert, recorded live. Except for Green, Franklin, Miller & Pierce, all of the past and present members who were at the first reunion performed.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.premierproductions.com/blog/bill-gaither-announces-gaither-vocal-band-reunion-live-concert-event|title=Bill Gaither Announces Gaither Vocal Band Reunion - Live Concert Event! |date=April 10, 2018|work=Premier Productions|access-date=October 7, 2018 |language=en}}</ref>


==Members (past and present)== ==Members (past and present)==
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{| class="toccolours" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" style="float: width; margin: 0 0 1em 1em; border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #E2E2E2; width:99%; border:1" {| class="toccolours" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="2" style="float: width; margin: 0 0 1em 1em; border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #E2E2E2; width:99%; border:1"
|- |-
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1980–1982<br/><small>(As "The New Gaither Vocal Band")</small> ! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1980–1982<br/><small>(as the New Gaither Vocal Band)</small>
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1982–1983 ! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1982–1983
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1983–1985 ! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1983–1985
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*'''Lee Young''' – Bass *'''Lee Young''' – Bass
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*'''Steve Green''' – Tenor *Steve Green – Tenor
*'''Gary McSpadden''' – Lead *Gary McSpadden – Lead
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Baritone *Bill Gaither – Baritone
*'''Jon Mohr''' – Bass *'''Jon Mohr''' – Bass
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*''']''' – Tenor *''']''' – Tenor
*'''Gary McSpadden''' – Lead *Gary McSpadden – Lead
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Baritone *Bill Gaither – Baritone
*'''Jon Mohr''' – Bass *Jon Mohr – Bass
|- |-
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1985–1987<br/><small>(Now simply "The Gaither Vocal Band")</small> ! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1985–1987<br/><small>(now simply the Gaither Vocal Band)</small>
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1987 ! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1987
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1987–1988 ! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1987–1988
|- |-
| |
*'''Larnelle Harris''' – Tenor *Larnelle Harris – Tenor
*''']''' – Lead *''']''' – Lead
*'''Gary McSpadden''' – Baritone *Gary McSpadden – Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass *Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*'''Lemuel Miller''' – Tenor *'''Lemuel Miller''' – Tenor
*'''Michael English''' – Lead *Michael English – Lead
*'''Gary McSpadden''' – Baritone *Gary McSpadden – Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass *Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*'''Jim Murray''' – Tenor *'''Jim Murray''' – Tenor
*'''Michael English''' – Lead *Michael English – Lead
*'''Gary McSpadden''' – Baritone *Gary McSpadden – Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass *Bill Gaither – Bass
|- |-
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1988–1992 ! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1988–1992
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|- |-
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*'''Jim Murray''' – Tenor *Jim Murray – Tenor
*'''Michael English''' – Lead *Michael English – Lead
*''']''' – Baritone *''']''' – Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass *Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*''']''' – Tenor *''']''' – Tenor
*'''Michael English''' – Lead *Michael English – Lead
*'''Mark Lowry''' – Baritone *Mark Lowry – Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass *Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*'''Terry Franklin''' – Tenor *Terry Franklin – Tenor
*'''Buddy Mullins''' – Lead *'''Buddy Mullins''' – Lead
*'''Mark Lowry''' – Baritone *Mark Lowry – Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass *Bill Gaither – Bass
|- |-
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1994–1995 ! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1994–1995
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| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*''']''' – Tenor *''']''' – Tenor
*'''Buddy Mullins''' – Lead *Buddy Mullins – Lead
*'''Mark Lowry''' – Baritone *Mark Lowry – Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass *Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*'''Jonathan Pierce''' – Tenor *Jonathan Pierce – Tenor
*''']''' – Lead *''']''' – Lead
*'''Mark Lowry''' – Baritone *Mark Lowry – Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass *Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*''']''' – Tenor *''']''' – Tenor
*'''Guy Penrod''' – Lead *Guy Penrod – Lead
*'''Mark Lowry''' – Baritone *Mark Lowry – Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass *Bill Gaither – Bass
|- |-
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 2001–2004 ! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 2001–2004
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|- |-
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*'''David Phelps''' – Tenor *David Phelps – Tenor
*'''Guy Penrod''' – Lead *Guy Penrod – Lead
*''']''' – Baritone *''']''' – Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass *Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*'''David Phelps''' – Tenor *David Phelps – Tenor
*'''Guy Penrod''' – Lead *Guy Penrod – Lead
*''']''' – Baritone *''']''' – Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass *Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*''']''' – Tenor *''']''' – Tenor
*'''Guy Penrod''' – Lead *Guy Penrod – Lead
*'''Marshall Hall''' – Baritone *Marshall Hall – Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass *Bill Gaither – Bass
|- |-
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 2009–2014 ! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 2009–2014
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|- |-
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*'''David Phelps''' – First Tenor *'''David Phelps''' – Tenor
*'''Wes Hampton''' – Second Tenor *Wes Hampton – Tenor
*'''Michael English''' – Lead *'''Michael English''' – Lead
*'''Mark Lowry''' – Baritone *'''Mark Lowry''' – Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass *Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*'''David Phelps''' – First Tenor *Wes Hampton – 1st Tenor
*'''Wes Hampton''' – Second Tenor *David Phelps – 2nd Tenor
*'''Adam Crabb''' – Lead *'''Adam Crabb''' – Lead
*'''Todd Suttles''' – Bass/Baritone *'''Todd Suttles''' – Bass/Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass/Baritone *Bill Gaither – Bass/Baritone
| valign="top" | | valign="top" |
*'''Reggie Smith''' – First Tenor *Wes Hampton – 1st Tenor
*'''Wes Hampton''' – Second Tenor *'''Reggie Smith''' – 2nd Tenor
*'''Adam Crabb''' – Lead *Adam Crabb – Lead
*'''Todd Suttles''' –Bass/Baritone *Todd Suttles – Bass/Baritone
*'''Bill Gaither''' – Bass/Baritone *Bill Gaither – Bass/Baritone
|} |}


===Timeline=== ===Timeline===
<timeline>
Singers are listed in the following order: (1) tenor, (2) lead, (3) baritone, (4) bass.<timeline>
ImageSize = width:900 height:auto barincrement:18 ImageSize = width:900 height:auto barincrement:18
PlotArea = left:70 bottom:77 top:0 right:0 PlotArea = left:65 bottom:77 top:0 right:0
Alignbars = justify Alignbars = justify
DateFormat = dd/mm/yyyy DateFormat = dd/mm/yyyy
Period = from:01/01/1980 till:31/08/2023 Period = from:01/01/1980 till:30/11/2024
TimeAxis = orientation:horizontal format:yyyy TimeAxis = orientation:horizontal format:yyyy


Colors = Colors =
id:ten value:rgb(0.4,0.8,0.4) legend:Tenor id:tenor value:rgb(0.4,0.8,0.4) legend:Tenor
id:lead value:rgb(0.5,0.4,0.7) legend:Lead id:lead value:rgb(0.5,0.4,0.7) legend:Lead
id:baritone value:rgb(1,0,0) legend:Baritone id:baritone value:rgb(1,0,0) legend:Baritone
Line 252: Line 252:
at:13/10/2017 # We Have This Moment at:13/10/2017 # We Have This Moment
at:01/09/2019 # Good Things Take Time at:01/09/2019 # Good Things Take Time
at:25/10/2019 # Reunion (Live)
at:02/10/2020 # Reunited (Live)
at:19/03/2021 # That's Gospel, Brother
at:01/10/2021 # All Heaven and Nature Sing
at:18/02/2022 # Let's Just Praise the Lord


PlotData = PlotData =
textcolor:black align:left anchor:from shift:(3,-5) width:11 textcolor:black align:left anchor:from shift:(3,-5) width:11
bar:Green from:01/01/1980 till:01/07/1983 color:ten bar:Green from:01/01/1980 till:01/07/1983 color:tenor
bar:Harris from:01/07/1983 till:01/04/1987 color:ten bar:Harris from:01/07/1983 till:01/04/1987 color:tenor
bar:Miller from:01/04/1987 till:01/08/1987 color:ten bar:Miller from:01/04/1987 till:01/08/1987 color:tenor
bar:Murray from:01/08/1987 till:01/07/1992 color:ten bar:Murray from:01/08/1987 till:01/07/1992 color:tenor
bar:Franklin from:01/07/1992 till:01/07/1994 color:ten bar:Franklin from:01/07/1992 till:01/07/1994 color:tenor
bar:Pierce from:01/07/1994 till:01/07/1997 color:ten bar:Pierce from:01/07/1994 till:01/07/1997 color:tenor
bar:Phelps from:01/07/1997 till:01/07/2005 color:ten bar:Phelps from:01/07/1997 till:01/07/2005 color:tenor
bar:Hampton from:01/07/2005 till:end color:ten bar:Hampton from:01/07/2005 till:end color:tenor
bar:Phelps from:01/07/2009 till:01/03/2017 color:ten bar:Phelps from:01/07/2009 till:01/03/2017 color:tenor
bar:Smith from:01/03/2017 till:end color:ten bar:Smith from:01/03/2017 till:end color:tenor
bar:McSpadden from:01/01/1980 till:01/07/1985 color:lead bar:McSpadden from:01/01/1980 till:01/07/1985 color:lead
bar:McSpadden from:01/07/1985 till:01/07/1988 color:baritone bar:McSpadden from:01/07/1985 till:01/07/1988 color:baritone
Line 357: Line 362:
| 1999 | 1999
| Southern Gospel Album | Southern Gospel Album
| ''Still The Greatest Story Ever Told'' | ''Still the Greatest Story Ever Told''
| {{won}} | {{won}}
|- |-
Line 372: Line 377:
| rowspan="2" | 2001 | rowspan="2" | 2001
| Southern Gospel Song | Southern Gospel Song
| "God Is Good All The Time" | "God Is Good All the Time"
| {{won}} | {{won}}
|- |-
Line 455: Line 460:
| 2022 | 2022
| Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year | Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year
| My Feet Are On The Rock | My Feet Are on the Rock
| {{won}} | {{won}}
|} |}

Latest revision as of 15:39, 4 December 2024

American southern gospel vocal group

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Gaither Vocal Band
(l-r) Reggie Smith, Wes Hampton, Bill Gaither, Todd Suttles, Adam Crabb(l-r) Reggie Smith, Wes Hampton, Bill Gaither, Todd Suttles, Adam Crabb
Background information
Also known asNew Gaither Vocal Band (1981–1984)
OriginAlexandria, Indiana, United States
GenresChristian, southern gospel, contemporary Christian
Years active1981–present
LabelsSpring Hill Music Group
MembersBill Gaither
Reggie Smith
Wes Hampton
Adam Crabb
Todd Suttles
Past membersSee section
WebsiteOfficial website

The Gaither Vocal Band is an American southern gospel vocal group, named after its founder and leader Bill Gaither. On March 1, 2017, it was announced that the Gaither Vocal Band lineup consisted of Reggie Smith, Wes Hampton, Adam Crabb, Todd Suttles, and Bill Gaither. Although the group started out recording contemporary Christian music in the 1980s, it became known for southern gospel after the popularity of the Gaither Homecoming videos.

The lineup of the band has changed many times, with artists leaving to work on solo careers, and new and old ones coming to replace them. Besides Gaither, singers with the longest tenure in the band include Guy Penrod (1995–2009), Mark Lowry (1988–2001, 2009–14), Michael English (1985–94, 2009–14), David Phelps (1997–2005, 2009–17) and Wes Hampton (2005–present).

The band has released 29 albums (not including compilations), at least 19 of which have charted. The band has also released 10 DVDs, which feature many other Christian artists as well. The Gaither Vocal Band has been honored with two Grammys and 17 Dove Awards.

History

Beginnings

The Gaither Vocal Band is named after gospel leader Bill Gaither. It was the successor-group of the Bill Gaither Trio. By the 1980s, Bill Gaither, along with wife Gloria Gaither, were both very successful songwriters. For example, their song, "He Touched Me" was covered by Elvis Presley, after which he named his album He Touched Me. Presley won a Grammy for the album. Bill Gaither felt that his trio had reached its peak in the mid-1980s, but his desire to make another gospel hit kept the trio going.

The original Vocal Band (called the New Gaither Vocal Band) was formed spontaneously, backstage of a Gaither Trio concert. It consisted of Bill Gaither and Gary McSpadden of the trio, along with two of the trio's backup singers, Steve Green and Lee Young. The quartet sang "Your First Day in Heaven" on stage that night. Their debut album, the self-titled The New Gaither Vocal Band, debuted in 1981.

According to the liner notes of the CD compilation The Best of the GVB, the term "vocal band" was used instead of "quartet" because it did not limit Gaither in terms of sound or number of group members. According to Green on the Gaither Vocal Band Reunion video, he came up with the name and convinced Gaither to use it because he, at the time, did not want to be associated with "quartet music".

Young left the group in 1982, and Jon Mohr was hired as the new bass singer. They then recorded the album Passin' the Faith Along. Later, tenor Green left and Larnelle Harris was hired. This group cut the New Point Of View album before Mohr left.

Widespread popularity

Michael English was hired as the new lead singer, so McSpadden was moved down to baritone, and Gaither dropped to bass. At this point the group dropped the "new" part of their name. Although the previous album (New Point of View) had been more contemporary than its predecessors, the album with this version of the group (One X 1) took it even further. After this album, Harris left and was replaced by Lemuel Miller. The group did not record an album with Miller before he too left. He was replaced by Imperials alumnus Jim Murray. This line up cut one album (Wings) before McSpadden left to start his solo career. Mark Lowry was convinced to replace him. Their Gospel roots project Homecoming was released in 1991. Murray left and was replaced by Terry Franklin. The album Southern Classics was released in 1993 with the hit "I Bowed on My Knees" (This song was co-written by Jeremy Ward).

Later English left. He was replaced by Buddy Mullins. Mullins was only a temporary fill-in, but he was included on the album Testify. Franklin soon left and was replaced by yet another Imperials alumnus, Jonathan Pierce (formerly known as Jonathan Hildreth, his first and last name, then changed to his first and middle name). Strengthened by the popularity of the Homecoming video series, the Vocal Band added Guy Penrod at lead. After Pierce's departure, Gaither hired David Phelps at tenor. After Lowry's departure, Imperials alumnus Russ Taff sang baritone for a couple of years. Marshall Hall was his replacement. Wes Hampton succeeded Phelps in 2005.

The group has had three number one songs on the Singing News chart. "Yes, I Know" held the top position from July to October 1997, as did "I Will Go On" in November 2006. "Greatly Blessed" was their third number one single. The group has routinely performed classic Southern Gospel songs including many written by Bill and Gloria Gaither like "He Touched Me", "I Believe In A Hill Called Mount Calvary", and "Sinner Saved By Grace".

Reunion

In July 2008, the vocal band recorded a reunion DVD at the Gaither Studios — The Gaither Vocal Band Reunion, Volumes 1 and 2. Except for Pierce, Franklin, and Miller, the former and present members appeared and performed. The two CDs debuted in the top two positions on Billboard's Contemporary Christian Album chart, marking the Gaither Vocal Band's first No. 1 on the Christian Album chart. The DVDs of the same title debuted in the No. 1 and No. 2 positions on the Music Video charts as well. It also garnered a Grammy Award for Best Southern, Country, Bluegrass Gospel Album.

The quintet

Gaither Vocal Band, 2009

In January 2009, Hall and Penrod left. Gaither brought back some former members: English as lead vocal, Lowry as baritone and Phelps as tenor. The first album by this five-member version was Reunited, released in September 2009. It was also the first album of the vocal band ever to feature only songs written by Bill and Gloria Gaither. A live album called Better Day was released in January 2010. In August 2010, they released the long-awaited album called Greatly Blessed, followed by I Am A Promise, a children's album, released in August 2011. Their most recent album was Pure & Simple, released in September 2012.

In October 2013, it was announced that Lowry and English would be leaving the group to devote more time to their solo careers. English's departure was immediate whereas Lowry stayed on until they could find another baritone to replace him. Their last album as members, Hymns, was released in March 2014 and was nominated for a Grammy Award the following December. After their departure, several guests filled-in until two new members could be found. In January 2014, it was announced that Adam Crabb (of The Crabb Family) would join the group as the fourth member and lead singer. Todd Suttles joined the group as the baritone singer one month later.

Following their formation, the new quintet would go on to release a limited edition album, The New Edition, which could only be purchased at concert performances. In October 2014, the group released their first album together, entitled Sometimes it Takes a Mountain. Five months later, that album was followed by a two-DVD live performance release and the release of their second album (a live performance album), Happy Rhythm. Upon release, the DVDs debuted at the top of Billboard's Music Video chart (Sometimes it Takes a Mountain at #1 and Happy Rhythm at #2). In August 2016, the group's album Better Together was released.

In March 2017, it was announced that Phelps would be leaving the group on April 1, and Reggie Smith would join the group as tenor.

In October 2017, this line-up released their first studio album, entitled We Have This Moment.

In October 2018, there was another Gaither Vocal Band Reunion. It was a two-day concert, recorded live. Except for Green, Franklin, Miller & Pierce, all of the past and present members who were at the first reunion performed.

Members (past and present)

Lineups

1980–1982
(as the New Gaither Vocal Band) 		1982–1983 1983–1985
  • Steve Green – Tenor
  • Gary McSpadden – Lead
  • Bill Gaither – Baritone
  • Jon Mohr – Bass
  • Larnelle Harris – Tenor
  • Gary McSpadden – Lead
  • Bill Gaither – Baritone
  • Jon Mohr – Bass
1985–1987
(now simply the Gaither Vocal Band) 		1987 1987–1988
  • Larnelle Harris – Tenor
  • Michael English – Lead
  • Gary McSpadden – Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass
  • Lemuel Miller – Tenor
  • Michael English – Lead
  • Gary McSpadden – Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass
  • Jim Murray – Tenor
  • Michael English – Lead
  • Gary McSpadden – Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass
1988–1992 1992–1994 1994
  • Jim Murray – Tenor
  • Michael English – Lead
  • Mark Lowry – Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass
  • Terry Franklin – Tenor
  • Michael English – Lead
  • Mark Lowry – Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass
  • Terry Franklin – Tenor
  • Buddy Mullins – Lead
  • Mark Lowry – Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass
1994–1995 1995–1997 1997–2001
  • Jonathan Pierce – Tenor
  • Buddy Mullins – Lead
  • Mark Lowry – Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass
  • Jonathan Pierce – Tenor
  • Guy Penrod – Lead
  • Mark Lowry – Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass
  • David Phelps – Tenor
  • Guy Penrod – Lead
  • Mark Lowry – Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass
2001–2004 2004–2005 2005–2009
  • David Phelps – Tenor
  • Guy Penrod – Lead
  • Russ Taff – Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass
  • David Phelps – Tenor
  • Guy Penrod – Lead
  • Marshall Hall – Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass
  • Wes Hampton – Tenor
  • Guy Penrod – Lead
  • Marshall Hall – Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass
2009–2014 2014–2017 2017–present
  • David Phelps – Tenor
  • Wes Hampton – Tenor
  • Michael English – Lead
  • Mark Lowry – Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass
  • Wes Hampton – 1st Tenor
  • David Phelps – 2nd Tenor
  • Adam Crabb – Lead
  • Todd Suttles – Bass/Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass/Baritone
  • Wes Hampton – 1st Tenor
  • Reggie Smith – 2nd Tenor
  • Adam Crabb – Lead
  • Todd Suttles – Bass/Baritone
  • Bill Gaither – Bass/Baritone

Timeline

Discography

Main article: Gaither Vocal Band discography

Awards and nominations

Grammy Awards

Year Category Nominated work Result
1991 Southern Gospel, Country Gospel or Bluegrass Gospel Album Homecoming Won
1994 Southern Classics Nominated
1998 Back Home in Indiana Nominated
2003 Everything Good Nominated
2004 A Cappella Nominated
2007 Give It Away Nominated
2009 Lovin' Life Won
2015 Best Roots Gospel Album Hymns Nominated

GMA Dove Awards

Year Category Nominated work Result
1992 Southern Gospel Album Homecoming Won
1994 Southern Classics Won
Southern Gospel Song "Satisfied" Won
1995 "I Bowed on My Knees" Won
1999 Southern Gospel Album Still the Greatest Story Ever Told Won
1999 Southern Gospel Performance "I Believe in a Hill Called Mount Calvary" Won
2000 Southern Gospel Album God Is Good Won
2001 Southern Gospel Song "God Is Good All the Time" Won
Southern Gospel Album I Do Believe Won
2002 Southern Gospel Song "He's Watching Me" Won
2003 "More Than Ever" Nominated
Country Album Everything Good Nominated
2007 Southern Gospel Song "Give It Away" Won
Southern Gospel Album Give It Away Won
2009 Lovin' Life Won
Christmas Album Christmas Gaither Vocal Band Style Nominated
2010 Southern Gospel Album Reunited Won
Greatly Blessed Won
Song of the Year "Greatly Blessed, Highly Favored" Nominated
2011 Southern Gospel Song "Better Day" Won
2013 Southern Gospel Performance "Glorious Freedom" Nominated
Bluegrass Song "Come to Jesus" Nominated
Southern Gospel Album Pure and Simple Won
2015 Southern Gospel Artist of the Year Gaither Vocal Band Won
2017 Won
2018 Won
2019 Won
2022 Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year My Feet Are on the Rock Won

References

  1. "Gaither Vocal Band". Archived from the original on September 21, 2011. Retrieved November 1, 2011.
  2. ^ "August 28, 2009 ~ Gaither Gospel Singers | Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly". PBS. August 28, 2009. Retrieved August 13, 2012.
  3. "Bill Gaither – Biography, Albums, Streaming Links – AllMusic". AllMusic.
  4. Bush, John. "He Touched Me – Elvis Presley : Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards". AllMusic. Retrieved August 13, 2012.
  5. "Gaither Vocal Band". United Singers International. Retrieved May 16, 2011.
  6. "The Gaither Vocal Band Receives Early Valentines". The Judy Nelon Group. Archived from the original on July 11, 2011. Retrieved February 9, 2011.
  7. Music, Gaither. "Announcing... Gaither Vocal Band Personnel Changes".
  8. Music, Gaither. "Gaither Vocal Band: Hymns Preorder".
  9. "GVB: Hymns CD". Archived from the original on March 9, 2014. Retrieved March 4, 2014.
  10. Music, Gaither. "Grammy Nomination for GVB".
  11. "The Gaither Vocal Band Welcomes Adam Crabb!". Facebook. Retrieved January 10, 2014.
  12. Music, Gaither. "A New Era Begins For The Gaither Vocal Band". Archived from the original on February 28, 2014. Retrieved February 18, 2014.
  13. Music, Gaither. "New Gaither Vocal Band CD Releasing this October!".
  14. Music, Gaither. "2 New Gaither Vocal Band Releases!".
  15. Music, Gaither. "New DVDs Top Billboard at #1 & #2!".
  16. "Bill Gaither Announces Gaither Vocal Band Reunion - Live Concert Event!". Premier Productions. April 10, 2018. Retrieved October 7, 2018.

External links

Gaither Vocal Band
Studio albums
Categories: