Sunday, July 29, 2007
contemporary
Current mood: thankful
Category: joyful Music
The History
of
The Fantastic Violinaires
In 1952, in the "Motor City" of Detroit, Michigan, three young men organized the group, The Fantastic Violinaires. They were Wilson DeShieds, Leo Coney and Isaiah Jones. Shorty afterwards, they were bless with a great talent in the person of Willie Banks. He would become their first lead singer. He remained with the group for a short time before he moved on to form his own group.
In the early sixties, they were blessed with another powerfully talented lead singer, Mr.Robert Blair. That was over 30 years ago and the last time he sang he was still powerful. His unique style along with their high, sweet, falsetto voices in the background has become the signature of the Violinaires. In the latter part of the sixties, another extraordinary talent was added to the group. Charles Brown's exceptional voice and style would enhance an already super group. After a lengthy absence from the group, he has returned to them as a lead singer and he has also been called to the ministry.
Some members early on were, Wilson Pickett (of secular fame) Rev. J.C. Smith (Smitty), Cleophus Tilman, Jim Byers, Murray "Bud" Durhan, Rick Wilson, Elder James McCurdy, J.J. Hawkins, Frank Thompson, David Battle and others played a tremendous part in establishing this group. Many have come and gone, but the Violinaires are still together.
In 1965, they recorded their first album, "Stand By Me," for Chess Records which propelled them to the top of Gospel Music Charts all over the country. They recorded 12 albums during their affiliation with that label.
They remained on the gospel charts constantly until early 1970. Keith Richards and Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones also wrote for the group during that time. They have been very fortunate in recording for some of the top labels in the industry. In 1972, they recorded for Jewel Records.
In 1983, they recorded for Malaco Records, under the leadership of (the late) Frank Williams.
In 1988, they moved to Alantic International Records (AIR), where they recorded one of theur biggest selling records, "The Pink Tornado", which again made the record charts nationwide.
In 1992, they recorded for Paula Records. There they showcased the spectacular talents of Danny Walker's Fantastics, a solo album featuring the Violinaires.
The Violinaires have showcased many talents and many groups have formed within the ranks. Jessy McDaniel left to form his own group and The popular "EverReadys" with Jerome and Freddy Williams all sang with the Violinaires. Down through the years the group have performed at all types of musical gatherings. From Church Concerts to Jazz festivals throughout the United States. They have also performed at major concert halls and civic centers with such gospel greats as Shirley Ceasar, Rev. James Cleveland and The Mighty Clouds of Joy, to name a few. They have also performed with Sam and Dave, The Manhattans and other popular music artists.
In 1997, the Violinaires signed with Prominence Records, and have recently released their latest CD, "Live In Atlanta". This promises to be one of the best projects they have ever done. It's a combination of their music, past and present.
The current members of The Violinaires:
Pastor Frank Thompson Jr.,Pastor David Battle, Rev. Charles Brown, Robert Arrington, Pastor Danny Walker, Minister Wesley Hill, and Dwight "Tito" Arthur
The Fantastic Violinaires give all the glory and honor to God for sustaining them down through the years. Also for their success, and for the support of their families, friends, and loyal fans.
We would like to extend our thanks to the Radio Announcers and the Gospel Promoters around the world for their hard work, past and present in promoting The Violinaires :
Wesley Hill
