In the mid-1960s, the Hightower Brothers seemed destined to be gospel music’s Next Big Thing ... but, for whatever reason, it just didn’t happen. Just as the Brothers were peaking, Savoy Records released an LP from their father, Elder Nick Hightower, who pastored their church in Newark, New Jersey. The album, recorded with Sister Massey from the church, was titled It’s a Long, Long Way and featured a much more traditional sound.
And it’s a wonderful LP, full of stomping, old-time gospel led by Hightower’s old-school keyboards. Elder Nick and Sister Massey are in fine form as vocalists, but my favorite track is that rare gospel instrumental, “Let Everybody March,” which showcases Hightower’s prowess on the Hammond B-3 organ.
MUSIC: Elder Nick Hightower and Sister Massey, It’s a Long, Long Way LP, “Let Everybody March,” Side 2, Track 1(March 10, 2024)
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I’m Robert Darden … “Shout! Black Gospel Music Moments” is produced by KWBU and the Black Gospel Music Preservation Program at Baylor University Libraries.