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{{Short description|American southern gospel vocal group}}
{{Infobox Musical artist <!-- See Misplaced Pages:WikiProject_Musicians -->
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2020}}
| Name = The Gaither Vocal Band
{{Multiple issues|
| Img =
{{more citations needed|date=February 2011}}
| Img_capt =
{{primary sources|date=February 2011}}
| Img_size =
{{original research|date=February 2011}}
| Landscape =
}}
| Background = group_or_band
{{Infobox musical artist
| Alias =
| Origin = | name = Gaither Vocal Band
| Genre = ] | background = group_or_band
| Years_active = {{Start date|1980}} - Present | image = Gaither Vocal Band 2023.jpg
| caption = (l-r) Reggie Smith, Wes Hampton, Bill Gaither, Todd Suttles, Adam Crabb
| Label =
| alias = New Gaither Vocal Band (1981–1984)
| Associated_acts =
| URL = http://www.gaither.com | origin = ], United States
| genre = ], ], ]
| Current_members = Bill Gaither, Guy Penrod, Marshall Hall, Wes Hampton
| Past_members = | years_active = 1981–present
| label = Spring Hill Music Group
| associated_acts = ], ], ], ], ], ]
| website = {{Official website|1=http://gaither.com/artists/gaither-vocal-band-0}}
| current_members = ]<br>Reggie Smith<br>]<br>Adam Crabb<br>Todd Suttles
| past_members = ]
}} }}
'''The Gaither Vocal Band''' is a ] music group.


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>
==Musical career==
Often incorrectly stated as 1981 (even by ], himself) it was formed in 1980 on the spur of the moment before a concert with the song, "First Day In Heaven." Not only did original bass singer, Lee Young confirm the date, one of their early performances of this song (with an explanation and introduction by Bill himself) can be found on the 1980 double record album, ''Live Across America''. This arrangement is a little different than the one they eventually did on their debut album, the self titled ''The New Gaither Vocal Band'' in 1981. They chose this name because they didn't want to be restricted to necessarily 4 singers.


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


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 ].
At this point the New Gaither Vocal Band became new, but dropped the "new" part of their name. Bill Gaither dropped to the lowest part (although they didn't call it Bass at the time), Gary McSpadden was moved down to baritone and ] was hired as lead singer. 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 Lemuel before he left. He was replaced by Imperials alumnus, ]. They cut one album (''Wings'') before Gary McSpadden left to devote more time to his solo career. Mark Lowry was tapped to replace him. Although Lowry admittedly didn't have the natural ear for the baritone part, or the experience, he added a great voice along with his comedy and soon made their sound more smooth. First planned to perhaps be their final album their Gospel roots project ''Homecoming'' in 1991, caused most Southern Gospel fans to welcome the Vocal Band with open arms. A follow-up recording called ''Southern Classics'' cemented their relationship with fans.
] left and was replaced by ] whose tenor voice was heard on the aforementioned, Southern Classics. Later ] left to focus soley on his ever growing solo career. He was replaced by ]. ] soon left and was replaced by yet another Imperials alumnus, ] (formerly known by his first and last name Jonathan Hildreth instead of his first and middle name as he has been known since joining the Vocal Band). Strengthened by the popularity of the Homecoming video series, the Vocal Band added ] at lead and after Pierce's departure, ] at tenor in the 1990s. After Lowry’s departure, ] alumnus ] sang baritone for a couple of years. When Taff returned to solo work, Marshall Hall was his replacement. ] succeeded Phelps in 2005.


==History==
During the 1990s and into the first few years of the 21st century, the Gaither Vocal Band mastered the art of mixing classic ] with ] and Inspirational styles. This gave the group a broad fan base that reached beyond the typical domain of Southern Gospel. Despite the immense popularity of the Gaither Vocal Band, they’ve only had two number one songs on the '']'' chart. "Yes, I Know" held the top position from July to October of 1997, as did "I Will Go On" in November of 2006. Other popular tunes by the Gaither Vocal Band include "Let Freedom Ring", "Count On Me", "The Baptism Of Jesse Taylor", and "When Jesus Says It’s Enough." The group routinely performs classic Southern Gospel songs including many written by ] and/or ] like "He Touched Me", "I Believe In A Hill Called Mount Calvary", and "Sinner Saved By Grace."
===Beginnings===
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.
== Members ==
The Gaither Vocal Band - Complete List of Group Members
*], Baritone (1980-84); Bass (1984-present)
*Lee Young, Bass (1980-1982)
*], Tenor (1980-1983)
*Gary McSpadden, Lead (1980-1984); Baritone (1984-88)
*Jon Mohr, Bass (1982-1984)
*], Tenor (1983-1987)
*], Lead (1985-1994)
*Lemuel Miller, Tenor (1987)
*Jim Murray, Tenor (1987-1992)
*], Baritone (1988-2001)
*Terry Franklin, Tenor (1992-1994)
*Buddy Mullins, Lead (1994-1995)
*Jonathan Pierce, Tenor (1994-1997)
*], Lead (1995-present)
*], Tenor (1997-2005)
*], Baritone (2001-2004)
*], Baritone (2004-present)
*Wes Hampton, Tenor (2005-present)


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}}
== Producers of Gaither Vocal Band Albums==
Keith Thomas - 1986<br/>
Billy Smiley - 1986-1988<br/>
Lari Goss - 1990<br/>
Ken Mansfield - 1990<br/>
Cheryl Rogers - 1993<br/>
Bill Gaither - 1993-present<br/>
Michael English - 1993-1994<br/>
Guy Penrod - 1995-2000<br/>
Michael Sykes - 1993-present<br/>
David Phelps - 2003


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===
== Discography ==
] 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).
*''The New Gaither Vocal Band'' (1981) - Dayspring
*''Passin' The Faith Along'' (1983) - Dayspring
*''New Point of View'' (1984) - Dayspring
*''One X 1'' (1986) - Word Nashville
*''Wings'' (1988) - Star Song
*''A Few Good Men'' (1990) - Star Song
*''Homecoming'' (1991) - Star Song
*''Peace of the Rock'' (1993) - Star Song
*''Southern Classics'' (1993) - Benson
*''Testify'' (1994) - Chapel
*''Southern Classics: Volume II'' (1996) - Chapel
*''Back Home in Indiana'' (1997) - Spring Hill
*''Lovin' God & Lovin' Each Other'' (1997) - Spring Hill
*''Still the Greatest Story Ever Told'' (1998) - Spring Hill
*''God is Good'' (1999) - Spring Hill
*''I Do Believe'' (2000) - Spring Hill
*''Everything Good'' (2002) - Spring House
*''A Cappella'' (2003) - Gaither Music Group
*''Give it Away'' (2006) - Gaither Music Group
*''Together" Signature Sound and Gaither Vocal Band (2007) - Gaither Music Group
*''Lovin' Life'' (2008) - Gaither Music Group


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.
Compilations: (Some contain additional new material or alternate versions than released on original albums)


The group has had three number one songs on the '']'' 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".
*''The Best from the Beginning'' (1989) - Word
*''Can't Stop Talkin' About Him'' (1995)
*''King is Coming'' (1994) - Benson
*''Classic Moments from the Gaither Vocal Band - Volume 1'' (1999) - Benson
*''Classic Moments from the Gaither Vocal Band - Volume 2'' (1999) - Benson
*"Best of the Gaither Vocal Band (2004) - Gaither Music Group


==External links== ===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 ] 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===
*

]

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 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.

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.<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)==
===Lineups===
{| 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" | 1982–1983
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1983–1985
|-
| valign="top" |
*''']''' – Tenor
*''']''' – Lead
*''']''' – Baritone
*'''Lee Young''' – Bass
| valign="top" |
*Steve Green – Tenor
*Gary McSpadden – Lead
*Bill Gaither – Baritone
*'''Jon Mohr''' – Bass
| valign="top" |
*''']''' – Tenor
*Gary McSpadden – Lead
*Bill Gaither – Baritone
*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" | 1987
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1987–1988
|-
|
*Larnelle Harris – Tenor
*''']''' – Lead
*Gary McSpadden – Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" |
*'''Lemuel Miller''' – Tenor
*Michael English – Lead
*Gary McSpadden – Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" |
*'''Jim Murray''' – Tenor
*Michael English – Lead
*Gary McSpadden – Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass
|-
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1988–1992
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1992–1994
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1994
|-
| valign="top" |
*Jim Murray – Tenor
*Michael English – Lead
*''']''' – Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" |
*''']''' – Tenor
*Michael English – Lead
*Mark Lowry – Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" |
*Terry Franklin – Tenor
*'''Buddy Mullins''' – Lead
*Mark Lowry – Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass
|-
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1994–1995
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1995–1997
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 1997–2001
|-
| valign="top" |
*''']''' – Tenor
*Buddy Mullins – Lead
*Mark Lowry – Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" |
*Jonathan Pierce – Tenor
*''']''' – Lead
*Mark Lowry – Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" |
*''']''' – Tenor
*Guy Penrod – Lead
*Mark Lowry – Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass
|-
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 2001–2004
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 2004–2005
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 2005–2009
|-
| valign="top" |
*David Phelps – Tenor
*Guy Penrod – Lead
*''']''' – Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" |
*David Phelps – Tenor
*Guy Penrod – Lead
*''']''' – Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" |
*''']''' – Tenor
*Guy Penrod – Lead
*Marshall Hall – Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass
|-
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 2009–2014
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 2014–2017
! width="25%" valign="top" bgcolor="#E7EBEE" | 2017–present
|-
| valign="top" |
*'''David Phelps''' – Tenor
*Wes Hampton – Tenor
*'''Michael English''' – Lead
*'''Mark Lowry''' – Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass
| valign="top" |
*Wes Hampton – 1st Tenor
*David Phelps – 2nd Tenor
*'''Adam Crabb''' – Lead
*'''Todd Suttles''' – Bass/Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass/Baritone
| valign="top" |
*Wes Hampton – 1st Tenor
*'''Reggie Smith''' – 2nd Tenor
*Adam Crabb – Lead
*Todd Suttles – Bass/Baritone
*Bill Gaither – Bass/Baritone
|}

===Timeline===
<timeline>
ImageSize = width:900 height:auto barincrement:18
PlotArea = left:65 bottom:77 top:0 right:0
Alignbars = justify
DateFormat = dd/mm/yyyy
Period = from:01/01/1980 till:30/11/2024
TimeAxis = orientation:horizontal format:yyyy

Colors =
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:baritone value:rgb(1,0,0) legend:Baritone
id:bass value:rgb(0.9,0.9,0) legend:Bass
id:piano value:rgb(1,0.4,0)
id:album value:rgb(0.7,0.7,0.7)
id:year value:rgb(0,0,0)
id:scale value:rgb(0.777,0.777,1)

Legend = orientation:horizontal position:bottom
ScaleMajor = increment:5 start:1980
ScaleMinor = increment:1 start:1980
TimeAxis = orientation:horizontal format:yyyy

LineData =
width:1
layer:back
color:album
at:01/04/1981 # The New Gaither Vocal Band
at:01/08/1982 # Passin' the Faith Along
at:01/05/1984 # A New Point of View
at:01/06/1986 # One X-1
at:01/02/1988 # Wings
at:01/06/1990 # A Few Good Men
at:01/04/1991 # Homecoming
at:01/03/1993 # Peace of the Rock
at:01/08/1993 # Southern Classics Vol. 1
at:01/09/1994 # Testify
at:01/11/1995 # Southern Classics Vol. 2
at:09/09/1997 # Lovin' God & Lovin' Each Other
at:01/04/1998 # Still The Greatest Story Ever Told
at:18/05/1999 # God Is Good
at:24/10/2000 # I Do Believe
at:13/08/2002 # Everything Good
at:30/09/2003 # A Capella
at:24/01/2006 # Give It Away
at:15/04/2008 # Lovin' Life
at:30/09/2008 # Christmas Gaither Vocal Band Style
at:08/09/2009 # Reunited
at:01/07/2010 # Better Day
at:10/08/2010 # Greatly Blessed
at:09/08/2011 # I Am A Promise
at:11/09/2012 # Pure and Simple
at:04/03/2014 # Hymns
at:14/10/2014 # Sometimes it Takes a Mountain
at:17/03/2015 # Happy Rhythm
at:09/10/2015 # Christmas Collection
at:26/08/2016 # Better Together
at:13/10/2017 # We Have This Moment
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 =
textcolor:black align:left anchor:from shift:(3,-5) width:11
bar:Green from:01/01/1980 till:01/07/1983 color:tenor
bar:Harris from:01/07/1983 till:01/04/1987 color:tenor
bar:Miller from:01/04/1987 till:01/08/1987 color:tenor
bar:Murray from:01/08/1987 till:01/07/1992 color:tenor
bar:Franklin from:01/07/1992 till:01/07/1994 color:tenor
bar:Pierce from:01/07/1994 till:01/07/1997 color:tenor
bar:Phelps from:01/07/1997 till:01/07/2005 color:tenor
bar:Hampton from:01/07/2005 till:end color:tenor
bar:Phelps from:01/07/2009 till:01/03/2017 color:tenor
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:01/07/1985 till:01/07/1988 color:baritone
bar:English from:01/07/1985 till:01/04/1994 color:lead
bar:Mullins from:01/04/1994 till:01/08/1995 color:lead
bar:Penrod from:01/08/1995 till:01/07/2009 color:lead
bar:English from:01/07/2009 till:01/01/2014 color:lead
bar:Crabb from:01/01/2014 till:end color:lead
bar:Gaither from:01/01/1980 till:01/07/1985 color:baritone
bar:Gaither from:01/07/1985 till:end color:bass
bar:Lowry from:01/07/1988 till:01/07/2001 color:baritone
bar:Taff from:01/07/2001 till:01/07/2004 color:baritone
bar:Hall from:01/07/2004 till:01/07/2009 color:baritone
bar:Lowry from:01/07/2009 till:01/01/2014 color:baritone
bar:Suttles from:01/01/2014 till:end color:baritone
bar:Young from:01/01/1980 till:01/07/1982 color:bass
bar:Mohr from:01/07/1982 till:01/07/1985 color:bass
</timeline>

==Discography==
{{main|Gaither Vocal Band discography}}

==Awards and nominations==
===Grammy Awards===
{|class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Year
! Category
! Nominated work
! Result
|-
| 1991
| rowspan="7" | Southern Gospel, Country Gospel or Bluegrass Gospel Album
| ''Homecoming''
| {{won}}
|-
| 1994
| ''Southern Classics''
| {{nom}}
|-
| 1998
| ''Back Home in Indiana''
| {{nom}}
|-
| 2003
| ''Everything Good''
| {{nom}}
|-
| 2004
| ''A Cappella''
| {{nom}}
|-
| 2007
| ''Give It Away''
| {{nom}}
|-
| 2009
| ''Lovin' Life''
| {{won}}
|-
| 2015
| Best Roots Gospel Album
| ''Hymns''
| {{nom}}
|}

===GMA Dove Awards===
{|class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Year
! Category
! Nominated work
! Result
|-
| 1992
| rowspan="2" | Southern Gospel Album
| ''Homecoming''
| {{won}}
|-
| rowspan="2" | 1994
| ''Southern Classics''
| {{won}}
|-
| rowspan="2" | 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}}
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2001
| Southern Gospel Song
| "God Is Good All the Time"
| {{won}}
|-
| Southern Gospel Album
| ''I Do Believe''
| {{won}}
|-
| 2002
| rowspan="2" | Southern Gospel Song
| "He's Watching Me"
| {{won}}
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2003
| "More Than Ever"
| {{nom}}
|-
| Country Album
| ''Everything Good''
| {{nom}}
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2007
| Southern Gospel Song
| "Give It Away"
| {{won}}
|-
| rowspan="2" | Southern Gospel Album
| ''Give It Away''
| {{won}}
|-
| rowspan="2" | 2009
| ''Lovin' Life''
| {{won}}
|-
|Christmas Album
|''Christmas Gaither Vocal Band Style''
| {{nom}}
|-
| rowspan="3" | 2010
| rowspan="2" |Southern Gospel Album
| ''Reunited''
| {{won}}
|-
|''Greatly Blessed''
| {{won}}
|-
| Song of the Year
| "Greatly Blessed, Highly Favored"
| {{nom}}
|-
| 2011
| Southern Gospel Song
| "Better Day"
| {{won}}
|-
| rowspan="3" | 2013
| Southern Gospel Performance
| "Glorious Freedom"
| {{nom}}
|-
| Bluegrass Song
| "Come to Jesus"
| {{nom}}
|-
| Southern Gospel Album
| ''Pure and Simple''
| {{won}}
|-
| 2015
| rowspan="4" | Southern Gospel Artist of the Year
| rowspan="4" | 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== ==References==
{{reflist}} {{Reflist}}

==External links==
* {{Official website}}

{{Gaither Vocal Band}}

{{Authority control}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Gaither Vocal Band, The}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Gaither Vocal Band, The}}
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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: