The Gospel Greats

Story by: Gail NoblesPodcast photo by: Gail NoblesKeyboardist: Gail NoblesI remember a radio station called WELS 1010 AM and WELS 102.9 FM. On both stations, I remember a gospel show called Andy & the Hotfoot Club. He played the best Gospel music like Sam Cooke ( The Love of God), Mighty Clouds of Joy ( He Cares for Me), and The Angelic Gospel Singers (Life Will Be Sweeter). There were so many songs Andy played. I guess he might have had the show a long time. I recorded some of the show on an XLII Maxell Cassette. So I must have first heard him in the 80s and probably heard him in the 90s too. Whenever I listened to Andy, I didn’t know his full name, and I didn’t know what he looked like. I never knew that he was a singer himself. Beyond his career as a radio disc jockey, Andy Herring was an accomplished Black Gospel singer. He recorded regional gospel tracks, most notably releasing a prominent 45 RPM single featuring the tracks "Help Me, Lord" and "What Are They Doing In Heaven Today" under the Pinewood record label.WELS AM 1010 went off the air on November 7, 2012. The station became WWMC-AM Gospel 1010. On April 14, 2025, WWMC changed their format from gospel. I’m just glad that we have the memories of that radio station. It was the best. There aren’t many radio stations that I know of playing great traditional gospel music like Andy. Because of him, I have heard some of the best gospel. He also played sermons. In my opinion, Andy Herring was the best Gospel DJ around.I’m Gail Nobles. You’re listening to Herring’s & Harmonies on the Gospel Greats.About the great gospel singers.

The Gospel Greats Podcast - Supporting Black Gospel RadioTitle: The Gospel GreatsPodcast Host: Gail NoblesPodcast Cover by: Gail NoblesIntroduction: Welcome to The Gospel Greats Podcast. I am your host, Gail Nobles. Today, we are diving deep into the powerful legacy and timeless sounds of gospel music. Join me as we explore the stories, the artists, and the soul of the genre that continues to inspire and uplift.Featured Support: I am proud to share my support for Black Gospel Radio. As we celebrate the heritage of gospel, I encourage my listeners to tune in and support the voice of faith at blackgospelradio.net It is an essential resource for those who carry the gospel spirit in their hearts. Be sure to sign up for the Black Gospel Radio newsletter at blackgospelradio.net.About the great gospel singers.

Story by: Gail NoblesKeyboardist: Gail NoblesLet's explore the uplifting message of "You Did It All" “ You did it all just for me. Hung, bled, and died out on Calvery.” An uplifting message by the legendary Shirley Caesar. Released in 1993 on her album *Stand Still*, this powerful gospel song celebrates all the wonderful things God has done in our lives. Shirley’s heartfelt singing truly brings the message alive, reminding us how faith can give us hope and strength. The song centers on the profound gift of salvation, acknowledging that our victories belong entirely to God rather than our own strength. Many find deep comfort in its lyrics, which serve as a powerful testimony for anyone looking back on their own trials and realizing how they made it through.This song is like a personal thank-you from a believer to God, expressing gratitude for His endless love and for sending Jesus to take on the burden of our sins.With its beautiful melody and Shirley Caesar’s amazing voice, "You Did It All" is more than just music; it’s a joyful celebration of faith and a reminder of the miracles that can happen when we believe. This timeless piece continues to inspire countless people, making it a treasured part of gospel music history.You’re listening to the Gospel Greats. I’m your host, Gail Nobles.About the great gospel singers.

Intro by Gail NoblesPodcsst cover by Gail NoblesStory by Gail NoblesIn the world of gospel music, few songs hold a place as special as "Working on a Building," a powerful anthem performed by the legendary Albertina Walker, who is affectionately known as the "Queen of Gospel Music." This beloved song draws on deep roots in both African American spiritual traditions and southern gospel music.The key message of "Working on a Building" centers around the idea of faith and the importance of building a strong spiritual foundation. The lyrics urge listeners to uphold a "blood-stained banner" for the Lord, expressing the hope of receiving a heavenly reward in the afterlife.Originally released on her 1990 album, *You Believed in Me*, the song has connected with audiences for years. It has since been featured in several compilations, including the *Best of Albertina Walker* in 1994 and *Verity: The First Decade Vol. 2*, further solidifying its place in gospel music history.Albertina Walker's heartfelt performance continues to inspire many, making "Working on a Building" a cherished part of the gospel music repertoire and a testament to enduring faith.I'm Gail Nobles. Thank you for listening to the Gospel Greats.About the great gospel singers.

Story by: Gail NoblesIntro by: Gail NoblesPhoto: Spotify Promo CardToday we’re going to talk about the soulful sounds of a gospel group that truly connected during the post-war era—the legendary Five Blind Boys of Mississippi! Now, let me take you back to 1965 when they graced the airwaves on a show that just captured the heart of rhythm and soul: "Reelin' in the Years." The stage is set, and a hushed excitement falls over the crowd as the spotlight beams down on those extraordinary musicians. With their hands a-clapping, and voices harmonizing in perfect unity, the lead vocalist strides forward, his powerful voice cutting through the air like a divine proclamation. And what a song it is—“Lord, You’ve Been Good to Me.”Now, when he sings about hearing that voice from heaven, it’s more than just a lyric; it’s the spirit of resilience and faith that pours forth from every note. The words evoke an image of spiritual guidance and a call to purpose, as he passionately declares that he’s been lifted up and led to the promised land. It’s this blend of personal struggle and divine assurance that gives their music weight, such dignity.Archie Brownlee, the prominent lead singer known for his soul-stirring delivery, truly captured the spirit of gospel music. His capacity to evoke deep emotions was unparalleled. The Five Blind Boys didn’t just sing—they transported their audience to a place of comfort and spiritual awakening. They were, and still are, true pioneers in the gospel genre, bridging the gap between traditional spirituals and the R&B sounds that were gaining traction during that time.And let’s not forget their monumental hit, “Our Father,” which reached number ten on the Billboard R&B charts back in 1951. That groundbreaking achievement wasn’t just a victory for the group—It showed how gospel music became popular and opened the door for future artists.As we think about the impactful moments from "Reelin' in the Years," let's honor the Five Blind Boys of Mississippi for their contributions to American music. They were not just a gospel quartet; they served as a source of hope and guidance for many people. That’s music that truly lasts!I'm Gail Nobles. Thank you for listening to the Gospel Greats!About the great gospel singers.

Story by Gail NoblesIntro by Gail NiblesCover Design by Gail NoblesThe Salem Travelers were a gospel group that recorded music for Checker Records, which was part of the famous Chess Records. Chess Records was known for its great music, especially in the 1960s and 1970s, including gospel tunes. The label was set up by the Chess brothers, Leonard and Phil, and they ran it until they sold it to General Record Tape (GRT) in 1969, just before Leonard passed away.During their time with Checker, the Salem Travelers released several singles and albums, including a popular song called "Thank You Lord," from 1968. The song expresses deep gratitude to God, with lyrics that reflect on how good the Lord has been. The lead singer shares his personal struggles, talking about moments when he felt confused and lost, as if Satan was trying to lead him astray. He captures the feeling of being undecided about which way to go in life, making the song relatable for many who face their own challenges.Overall, the music of the Salem Travelers is filled with heartfelt messages and spiritual strength, touching listeners with its honesty and uplifting spirit. I’m Gail Nobles. Thank you for listening to the Gospel Greats.About the great gospel singers.

Photo: Spotify PromoKeyboardidt: Gail NoblesVocals: Gail NoblesStory by: Gail NoblesGood afternoon , good afternoon, my beautiful listeners! This is your favorite gospel podcast host, Gail Nobles, and oh, do I have a special story for you today! We're celebrating the life and legacy of a true gospel singer, the legendary Morgan Babb!Now, Morgan Babb wasn’t just your average radio DJ; he was a powerhouse of talent! Born to uplift, he graced the world with his incredible vocal talents, and let me tell you, folks, he could arrange a tune like nobody’s business. He was a band leader that commanded respect and admiration, but his heart didn't stop there. Oh no! He was also a minister—a wise mentor to numerous future church leaders, guiding them on their spiritual journeys.If you haven’t heard the powerful message in his song “Sinners Don’t Wait,” let me remind you how profound those lyrics are:“Don't wait! Don’t wait till it’s too late! Sinner, I’m begging you, and I’m pleading with you…”Morgan understood the urgency of our spiritual walk. He knew that life is fleeting, and every soul matters—he beckoned us to seek redemption now, to meet Jesus in heaven on high. It’s a melody that tugs at the heart, urging us to reflect on our lives before it’s too late.But wait, there's more! Morgan made history as the first African-American in Nashville to establish his own radio station! Yes, you heard that right. He opened doors that had long been shut, paving the way for future generations to share their voices.Tune into his legacy, my friends! Let us honor Morgan Babb not just as a music man but as a servant of the Lord, a mentor, and a beacon of hope. His life reminds us of the importance of community, faith, and the power of music to transform lives.So, as we celebrate his life, let's take those words to heart: “Don’t wait till it’s too late!” Let’s rise up, lift our voices, and carry forward the legacy of service and love that Morgan Babb embodied in every note he sang and every word he spoke!I’m Gail Nobles thank you for listening to the Gospel Greats! Stay blessed .About the great gospel singers.

Photo: Spotify Promo CardMusic by: Gail NoblesStory by: Gail Nobles"Good evening , everyone. I'm Gail Nobles, and you’re listening to the Gospel Greats. Today we're taking a moment to celebrate the life and legacy of Andrae Crouch, a true titan of soul gospel music. If you've ever felt the power of a song that lifts your spirit and stirs your soul, you might owe a debt to this remarkable artist. Crouch, who passed away in 2015, didn't just sing about faith—he made it feel alive, urgent, and utterly human.Andrae Crouch was one of the top soul gospel artists of his time, blending infectious rhythms with profound messages that reached far beyond the church pews. His 1979 hit, 'Jesus is Lord,' is a perfect example from his 1979 album ‘I’ll be Thinking of You’. By the time I finished listening, I truly knew who Jesus was and what He had done. Crouch's lyrics painted a vivid picture: 'I tell them Jesus was wounded for my transgressions, and He was bruised for my iniquities.' Then he'd build to that soaring chorus: 'Jesus—He was sent from the Father; Jesus—He's a great Messiah.'It was soul music at its finest, with Crouch's rich voice turning ancient scripture into something that felt like it was straight from the streets. He walked upon the water, as he sang, and calmed the raging sea—making Jesus sound like a soul man to me, full of grit and grace. That's what came through in every note: a deep, personal conviction that connected with so many.Crouch didn't stop there. Songs like 'Soon and Very Soon' brought a joyful anticipation to the gospel genre, promising that 'we are going to see the King.' I grew up in an era when gospel music was simpler, often stripped down with just a few instruments—a piano, maybe a humble choir. But when Andrae Crouch arrived on the scene with tracks like 'Jesus is Lord' and 'Soon and Very Soon,' it was like a revolution. He infused it with layers of soul, funk, and even a touch of what some might call 'worldly' flair, expanding the sound and making it accessible to new audiences.And that's no accident. I once read an article in the Los Angeles Times where Crouch opened up about his approach. He said he purposely alternated upbeat, enjoyable Christian songs with ones that carried a deeper message—songs that might not sound recognizably religious at first listen. 'It might be something that sounds worldly,' he explained, 'but the words will stay with them and accomplish something.' And boy, did he deliver on that promise. Through his music, Crouch didn't just entertain; he planted seeds of faith that grew in unexpected ways.Andrae Crouch. That’s the story for today. They’ll be more soon but until next time goodbye friends.About the great gospel singers.

Story by: Gail NoblesPhoto: Wikipedia CC BY-SA 2.0This week, we're diving into a fascinating bit of musical history, a duet that sounds like a divine collaboration, but came together in a rather earthly, logistical way. We're talking about Shirley Caesar and Al Green, two great gospel singers, and their seemingly effortless rendition of "Sailing on the Sea of Your Love."Now, on the surface, it sounds like a match made in heaven, right? Shirley Caesar, the "First Lady of Gospel," and Al Green, the soul singer turned reverend. But as *The New York Times* pointed out back in 1984, this meeting of musical minds wasn’t quite as spontaneous as it seems. Robert Palmer, in his article, quoted Miss Caesar as saying she’d be open to performing with Al Green, but emphasized the need for rehearsal, stressing they had never sung together.Here’s where things get interesting. Conflicting schedules, a constant challenge in the music world, intervened. Miss Caesar, as the article revealed, recorded her part with her musicians, and then, while she was away on tour, Al Green came in to record his vocals solo. Think about that! Two powerhouse singers, seemingly singing *with* each other, but in reality, singing *to* each other, across time and space, thanks to the wonders of studio technology.And yet… listen to the song. You'd never know. The blend of their voices, the passion and conviction, it's seamless. It's proof to their individual talents, of course, but also to the skill of the producers and engineers who pieced it all together.“Sailing on the Sea of Your Love," released on Shirley Caesar's album "Sailin'," became a gospel hit, and a beloved example of how music can transcend logistical hurdles. Sometimes, the most beautiful harmonies are created not in perfect unison, but in separate moments, brought together by faith, talent, and a little bit of studio magic. And that, as they say, is the story behind the song.I’m Gail Nobles and you’re listening to the gospel greats.About the great gospel singers.

Photo: Spotify Promo CardStory by: Gail NoblesIntro | Keyboardist: Gail NoblesAlright, lemme tell you something about this Gospel Keynotes tune, "If You Pray, Don't Worry, and If You Worry, Don't Pray." Now, this ain't just some pretty little melody to tap your feet to. This is a *powerhouse* of spiritual advice, wrapped up in a down-home package.We're talkin' about a cornerstone of faith here. And that first verse? That's the foundation."Fret Not Thyself Because of Evil Doers. Neither Be Thou Envious Against the Workers of Iniquity."See, that's *easy* to sing, but *hard* to live. We all been there, right? You see somebody cuttin' corners, lyin', cheatin', and they seem to be gettin' ahead. The flesh *screams* at you. "Why am I playin' by the rules? Why am I breakin' my back when they're gettin' rich off bein' crooked?"But the song's tellin' you, flat out: *Don't even go there.* Don't waste your energy on envy. Don't let bitterness take root.  Those "evil doers," those "workers of iniquity"... they're on borrowed time. Their success is temporary, built on sand. Your peace, your righteousness, that's what lasts.And that's the important part of it, see?  Worry is born of a lack of trust.  It's letting fear and doubt cloud your vision.  It's thinking you gotta control everything, fix everything, figure everything out yourself.  And that leads to trouble.Now, let’s get to the important part of it: You think you can pray but then worry, then you're double minded. God can't move in that space."Commit Thy Way Unto the Lord and Thy God. And He Shall Bring It To Pass Before Thee.”"Commit Thy Way."  What does that *mean*?It means surrender. It means letting go of that death grip you got on your own plans.  It means trustin' God's got a bigger picture than you could ever imagine. It means pray about everything and worry about nothing. It means having the mind set to release it.  Commit.Commit your *relationships* to Him. Commit your *finances*. Commit your *health*.  Commit your *dreams*, even the ones that seem impossible.  Commit your *fears*, your *doubts*, your *weaknesses*.  *Everything*.And that last part? "And He Shall Bring It To Pass Before Thee.”This is what this verse is saying: If you truly commit your way to God, He will *make it happen*.  Not maybe. Not possibly. He *will* bring it to pass. Before you even start to see the answer, he's going to bring it to pass.But, here's the thing you gotta understand about this song: It's not magic. It's not a guarantee of a trouble-free life. But it's a promise that *even in the midst of trials*, if you keep your heart fixed on God, if you pray in faith and trust in His plan, He *will* see you through.I’m Gail Nobles and you’re listening to a show about the gospel greats today’s topic Willie Neal Johnson and The Gospel Keynotes.About the great gospel singers.