A gospel quartet that began with brothers, Paul and Tyrone Porter in the 1970’s, they have made it routine to tour the nation on a continual basis, their bus traveling through cities and towns of all sizes almost every weekend. It should be noted that, their parents, Rev. Eddie and the late Mrs. Ora Porter, outstanding vocalists in their own rights, significantly influenced the brothers. One can be sure, that as often as they play they are touching audiences with their heartfelt testimonies and soul stirring performances.
The Porters grew up in Detroit Michigan, in a traditional gospel environment, their parents raising them in the church and encouraging them to participate in the church choir and other church activities. Paul led his first group when he was nine years old and for the next eight years, became well known for his versatile style and natural vocal agility. He and brother Tyrone sang in groups together until Paul graduated from high school in 1979.
Paul and Tyrone ultimately made the decision to move to Sontag MS. Once settled, the brothers teamed up with talented cousins, Ronald and Arnold Brown (Identical twin brothers) who had previously been singing with an R & B group. As with the Porters, the Brown brothers also came from a musically enriched family background. This group of young men became the original Christianaires and it was in the small community of Sontag that they carved out a place for their unique rendering of Gospel music.
Paul, who writes much of the group’s material, is not the only songwriter. Tyrone and Ronald are also exceptional writers. The other group members have contributed to material that finds its way unto the albums. They also search for material from other sources, helping them to keep their sound fresh. As for their message Paul states that the Christianaires’ purpose is to minister the word of God though song and to let people know that God is real and that He will hear and answer prayers.
Arnold Brown, who served as tenor of the group, eventually felt led to answer a call to the ministry. He was replaced by George Carter, who was with the group for the labout 16 years. In recent years the group has been reunited with older brother Charles Porter (Formerly of the Blind Boys of Alabama). Charles enhances their versatility to an untouchable level. Charles makes frequent live performances with the group and joins them on their latest release, “Thank You” (Marxan Records) “Thank You clearly places the Christianaires on a plateau in the industry that sets the standard toward which all others strive. In 2004, Chris Dean was added to the Christianaires, replacing George Carter. The group has been signed to a major record label for much of their career, including Malaco, CGI, and currently Marxan Records. They have earned critical acclaim for their musical achievements in the form of Vision Awards, Stellar Awards, and other nominations and chart-topping hits.
Paul, who was recently blinded in one eye by a blood clot on the brain, affecting his speech and ability to walk, has experienced the miracle of God’s healing power. With renewed vision (both spiritually and physically) he sings now from the vantage point of one who has been healed and has made a promise to God to share his testimony and proclaim God’s glory to others who need renewed vision and strength. As Paul states “Whatever the need is God forgives, He loves, He saves, As well my ministry is to encourage people.”
In January 2003, the group moved to the Nu Horizon Booking and Management Agency responding to a need to expand and adequately address the needs and requirements of their growing musical ministry. Nu Horizon, headed by Jerry W. Goode, President and Owner, oversees all aspects of the group’s business and constantly searches for ways to enhance the group’s market appeal. Jerry Goode states that if you thought that the Christianaires were powerful before, you are going to be delightfully surprised in the future. The Nu Horizon team, which also includes Executive Assistant Lisa and Road Manager Jo Ann, is convinced that this already mighty quartet has only scratched the surface of its true potential.
