Formation and Early Success
Named after its founder, Bill Gaither, Gaither Vocal Band emerged as a result of an impromptu live performance that the three friends came up with in 1980. The original quartet; Steve Green, Lee Young, Gary McSpadden and Bill Gaither, formed the band and organized their gifted talents to release their first album. The New Gaither Vocal Band came up with their debut studio record in 1981 that was highly appreciated by the listeners.
Gloria Gaither, Bill’s wife, contributed her effective songwriting to the group and Gaither Vocal Band released their second album Passin’ The Faith Along in 1983. With minor personnel changes, the band released a series of studio albums that made the band known to the masses. By 1988, the group had released many acclaimed records such as One X 1 and Wings that established them among most popular gospel groups of the time.
Mainstream Popularity
Gaither Vocal Band released their sixth studio album A Few Good Men in 1990 that became their first record to chart on the Billboard 200 chart. This successful event marked a radical shift in the band’s career and they released several chartbusting albums in the coming years. Their 1991 record Homecoming made them widely popular. Following albums like Southern Classics, Testify and Lovin’ God and Lovin’ Each Other solidified their standing in the music scene.
The group remained constantly famous and emerged as one of the leading touring bands of the country. Their eponymous Homecoming Video series presented their studio recordings as well as live performances and witnessed record-breaking sales. The start of 2000s brought more fame. Albums like God Is Good, I Do Believe, Give It Away and Lovin’ Life not only became commercially successful but also won Gaither Vocal Band multiple Dove Music Awards. The group also hit the road and performed throughout the country. Gaither Vocal Band tickets sales skyrocketed and made them one of the most demanded music group.
Reunion and Recent Releases
In 2009, some of the band’s long term members reunited during a live concert and all of them performed various popular songs. This event marked a new chapter in the Gaither Vocal Band’s history and became a significant part of their career. The resulting albums, Gaither Vocal Band Reunion and Reunited topped the Christian Album Chart and restored their commercial prominence in the contemporary gospel music scene. The band released four albums after their reunion with Pure and Simple being their latest studio record.
The Current Lineup
A number of musicians have been part of the Gaither Vocal Band; however, the present group members include Michael English, Wes Hampton, Mark Lowry, David Phelps and Bill Gaither. These members, with their tenor and baritone vocals harmonize to create a beautiful blend. Collectively they form a highly passionate quintet that is recognized for its versatility and in-depth artistry.
GVB Concert Series
This season, Gaither Vocal Band has lined up a number of shows. Their latest concert series is expected to last till May 2014 and will include different cities across the States. Enjoy their positively charged live performances in one of their shows taking place in your town.