Mighty Lot Of Singin’ - Gerald Williams, Feature Article

Apr

2003

Mighty Lot Of Singin’ - Gerald Williams

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Mighty Lot of Singin

This informative book is narrated by Gerald Williams, renowned Bass singer of the Melody Boys Quartet, and written by Judy Cox, who just happens to be Gerald’s daughter. They prove to be a winning combination in getting the life story of Gerald Williams told in the most interesting fashion. It is a very easy read, and once you start reading this book, you find it hard to put down.

The story starts with Gerald’s earliest memories of childhood, including a little family history. As one of the youngest singers that I know of to start singing professionally, at 16, this is especially young for being a Bass singer.Gerald was fascinated by the Bass singing of Hershel Foshee, and the music genius of “Smiling Joe Roper”, the pianist for the group. When Hershel was forced to leave the group for a short while, Gerald jumped at the chance to fill in for him. After a short stint back with the quartet, Hershel tragically died of a heart attack. Now Gerald was thrown into the position of singing on a regular basis with the group who changed their name to The Melody Boys.

I hope that many of the young people wanting to get involved in Southern Gospel Music will read this book. It shows many of the hardships that have been gone through by not only Gerald, by so many other singers in this genre. We have heard the many stories of the very early days of Southern Gospel, but Gerald’s story lets everyone see that the struggles have continued through the years and in fact that many of those same difficulties are still relevent today.

Gerald shares many of the hardships and trials that he has had to endure on this journey including the many moves of his family and the tragic death of his first wife. He also shares many of the joys that he has benefited from his life as a Gospel singer. This book is a great history of the Melody Boys Quartet, but also tells of Gerald’s ventures with The Plainsmen Quartet.

I highly recommend taking just a little time for an enjoyable book about one of the most respected men in Southern Gospel Music.

Reader Comments

Great review of a wonderful book, Deon!

Gerald Williams is a pioneer who documents his struggles and blessings in the field of gospel in a wonderful manner in this book.

When the great singers in gospel music are listed, his name should be near the top of the list. He is such a wonderful, classy gentleman and a superb bass singer! Thanks for sharing with us about Gerald's book.

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 04/01/2003

Deon,
Nice review. The Melody Boys exude class and this is due to Geald Wiliams' leadership.

Dean

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 04/01/2003

Deon, thank you so much for reviewing this wonderful book! I believe Gerald Williams is one of the most underrated singers in Quartet music today. I also believe he is the greatest bass singer of the present time. I would like to encourage everyone to read this book. It is the truly touching and inspirational story of an exceptional man's journey through life! Thanks, Gayla

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 04/15/2003

This book is a "must read" and a real page turner for those interested in the historical perspective of quartet singing. But there is also a refreshing spiritual emphasis throughout the book as Gerald shares his heart with the reader, recounting a lifetime of ups and downs, triumphs and tragedies.

I met Gerald officially back in the Fall of last year as the Melody Boys passed through Topeka (though I had seen him perform several times with the Plainsmen years ago). I must say, his genuine warmth and geniality added greatly to my enjoyment of his book. He made me feel like an old friend.

Oh, and by the way, he sings a pretty mean bass, too.

Thanks, Deon, for putting the spotlight on a great book.

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 04/22/2003

Gerald is an increcible man and I really appreciate your review. Every once in a few years God will equip someone with that rare blend of talent and humility, and Gerald is the epitome of both. Thanks again...

Commented by (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) On 04/25/2003

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