SHOUT! Black Gospel Music Moments - The Newberry Singers

One of the most creative gospel quartets of the late 1950s and early ‘60s were the Newberry Singers, led by singer, pianist and songwriter Edwin Newberry. The group was founded in Philadelphia in 1954 and quickly became popular, opening for groups like the Angelics and the Dixie Hummingbirds.

The Newberry’s unique sound played a part in their success – Edwin was forever experimenting with gospel music. He’d use Broadway-styled arrangements, crazy beatnik bongos, herky-jerky rhythms and innovative vocal harmonies. Think of the classic “Pink Panther” movie theme done as a gospel song! Even their dramatic stage presence was unique.

Oh, and one last thing about the Newberry Singers. In 1983, longtime member Booker Newberry III had a Top 10 hit in the United Kingdom with the disco song, “Love Town”!

Meanwhile, here’s the original Newberry Singers with “Trouble Will Soon Be Over.”

I’m Robert Darden … “Shout! Black Gospel Music Moments” is produced by KWBU and the Black Gospel Music Preservation Program at Baylor University Libraries.

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