The Delta Rhythm Boys

The Delta Rhythm Boys were an American vocal group active from 1934 to 1987.[1]

The Delta Rhythm Boys
The quartet with pianist Rene DeKnight. Top l to r: Lee Gaines, DeKnight. Center: Carl Jones. Bottom l to r: Traverse Crawford, Kelsey Pharr.
Background information
GenresR&B, jazz, gospel
Years active1934–1987

The group was formed at Langston University in Langston, Oklahoma, in 1934 by Carl Jones, Traverse Crawford, Otha Lee Gaines, and Kelsey Pharr.[1] They moved to Dillard University in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1936 worked there under Frederick Hall as the Frederick Hall Quintet and the New Orleans Quintet.[1]

They performed on radio programs such as Amos and Andy and The Joan Davis Show, and performed on Broadway in the shows Sing Out the News and Hot Mikado.[1] The group appeared extensively in 15 films.[2] They resettled permanently in Europe in 1956.[1]

Lee Gaines died of cancer in Helsinki on July 15, 1987.[3] At Gaines's funeral, Hugh Bryant collapsed while performing, and died, apparently from a heart attack.[4]

Personnel

Bass

First tenor

  • 1934–1944: Elmaurice Miller
  • 1940–1944: Clinton Holland
  • 1944–1960: Carl Jones
  • 1960–1974: Herb Coleman
  • 1974–1987: Walter Trammell

Second tenor

  • 1934–1975: Traverse Crawford
  • 1975–1987: Ray Beatty

Baritone

  • 1934–1940: Essie Adkins
  • 1940–1943: Harry Lewis
  • 1943–1960: Kelsey Pharr
  • 1951–1954: Cliff Holland (Temporary replacement for Pharr)
  • 1962–1987: Hugh Bryant
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References
  1. Harris, Craig. "The Delta Rhythm Boys". AllMusic. Retrieved April 12, 2020.
  2. Warner, Jay (2006). American Singing Groups: A History from 1940s to Today. Hal Leonard Corporation. p. 24. ISBN 9780634099786. Retrieved July 24, 2016. Delta Rhythm Boys.
  3. Obituaries: Lee Gaines, 73, a Jazz Singer The New York Times, July 21, 1987.
  4. Obituaries: Hugh Bryant Dies as He Sings Tribute at Lee Gaines Funeral The New York Times, July 24, 1987.
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