Here’s a little Gospel Music Heritage Month Tidbit for ya…
Clara Ward (1924-1973) was well-known as the leader of The Famous Ward Singers. She was a pioneer in the movement of small gospel ensembles– they even used choreography, which was criticized by some as “clowning.”
In addition to penning the popular gospel song “How I Got Over,” Clara Ward recorded background vocals on several secular albums and sang pop songs for various compilation albums in the 60′s. She is cited by Aretha Franklin as a strong musical influence. She passed away at the young age of 48 after suffering two strokes.
Here’s two videos (both with great vocals and great performances)– first is “We’ll Soon Be Done” and the second is “Didn’t It Rain”:
Whatd’ya think???
Thanks for posting these videos. Gospel music (the art form) has progressed so much, but at the same time, doesn't veer much from what we see here: there's good squallin', choreography replete with shouting and synchronized tambourines playing, nice outfits... and they're on "secular" television doing "evangelism." LOVE how she sat in the woman's lap. That is my kinda lead singer!!!!
Wonder if she was scrutinized as much back then about "fraternizing" with the secular world as gospel artists are today. :roll:
Yes, they were scrutinized for their big hair, too much makeup, flashy dress, too much choreography, and playing in "sin city" Las Vegas. So you see, there is nothing new under the sun, that is why it is good to study the history less we forget.
I applaud your celebration of the rich heritage and history of gospel music. It should be noted that Clara was not the writer of How I Got Over, Reverend W. Herbert Brewster of Memphis, Tn. actually wrote the song and a number of others. The Ward Singers carried a number of great leads including Marion Williams, Frances Steadman, Henrietta Waddy and later Kitty Parham. Clara and the Ward Singers were an inspiration to many and the world should never forget the Ward Singers' contributions to gospel music.
Lawd did ya look at the other one where they were singing "Them Bones"?? I played that one ova and ova!!
Did anybody else think about Lillian Lloyd when Clara Ward sat on that man's lap? lol.
lot about you