GOSPEL NEWS & NOTES

Rebels Quartet Back On Active List

Ending an absence of more than 30 years, the Rebels Quartet has re-organized, and will travel on a limited schedule through the Southeast. Having received the blessings of many of the group's former members, the desire of this quartet is to continue the vision set by the Rebels long ago, by singing many of the songs that the original quartet made famous, and introducing new heartfelt messages in song.

The group's bass singer, Rick Fair, who has performed with other popular names such as Hovie Lister and the Statesmen, The Blackwoods, and the Palmetto State Quartet, actually began his gospel music career singing with the Rebels Quartet in 1972. Fair now celebrates his 40th year in gospel music by returning to Rebels, the group with which he began his career.

Vintage Rebels quartet, ‘I Wouldn’t Take Nothing for My Journey Now’

With its central base in the Sevierville, TN area, the new members of this legendary group include Rick Fair (bass), David Fair (baritone), Alan Kendall (lead), Mike Young (tenor) and Barry Patrick (pianist).

Rebels quartet, ‘The Four Man’--gospel rap?

Formed in 1950, in Tampa, Florida, the Rebels Quartet is one of gospel’s legendary singing groups. The original lineup included Norman Allman (bass); John Matthews baritone vocals); Lee Kitchens (lead); Horace Parrish (tenor); and Jimmy Hand (pianist). Three of the group’s most famous members--"Pappy" Jim Waits, London Parris, and Big Jim Hamill--have been enshrined in the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame.