New York’s venerable Echoes of Life were founded in 1947 but by the late ‘60s Deacon Robert W. Jones was the only founding member still with the group. But along the way they picked up a powerhouse lead vocalist in the Rev. Robert L. Owens. For many years, Owens also hosted the Sunday night concert by the Charity Baptist Church, which was broadcast live over station WWRL in New York City.
In 1970, the Echoes of Life recorded the album, You’ve Got to Live the Life for Savoy Records. Owens, an old school shouter of the highest order, produced and his rough and raspy lead vocals dominate every song, including the dynamite title track, an irresistible arrangement of one of Thomas Dorsey’s most beloved compositions.
I’m Robert Darden … “Shout! Black Gospel Music Moments” is produced by KWBU and the Black Gospel Music Preservation Program at Baylor University Libraries.
