Some of the great gospel groups lasted 50, 60, even 70 years – including the Golden Gate Quartet, the Soul Stirrers, and the Swanee Quintet. The Swanees were founded in Georgia in 1939 and continued to record into the 2000s. Their longevity was due to the group’s trademark rough and ready sound – they were considered the most “country-gospel” sound of all of the great groups.
At the heart of the Swanee Quintet was the ferocious voice of the Rev. Ruben Willingham, an old school shouter and testifier who was happy to preach or sing just about anywhere anytime. During their decades together, they released many hits and memorable songs – “Cry Sometime,” “It’s Hard to Get Along,” “Race to Run,” “Jesus Won’t Fail,” “Sit Down Servant,” “Sleep on, Mother,” “New Walk” and this selection, “The Lord is on My Side.” How fierce was Willingham? The Swanees once toured with James Brown and His Famous Flames!
I’m Robert Darden … “Shout! Black Gospel Music Moments” is produced by KWBU and the Black Gospel Music Preservation Program at Baylor University Libraries.
