The Kingsmen | Word of Life Winter Conference Season

For any questions, call 727-379-5000 For more than half a century, The Kingsmen Quartet has established a far-reaching legacy in Christian music, becoming one of the most beloved and innovative groups in the Southern Gospel genre. Formed in 1956 by brothers Raymond, Reese, and Louis McKinney, the group has evolved from its humble beginnings in western North Carolina to a major influence in gospel music. Over the years, numerous renowned artists have been part of the group, with eight members inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame, including Eldridge Fox, “Big” Jim Hamill, Ray Dean Reese, and Squire Parsons. The Kingsmen continue to define and shape Southern Gospel for new generations of listeners. The group's momentum built significantly in the 1970s when area natives Eldridge Fox and Ray Dean Reese joined the quartet. In 1974, they released their first live recording, Big & Live, which won a Dove Award and featured southern gospel classics like “Glory Road” and “Look for Me At Jesus Feet.” Known for their individuality, The Kingsmen were one of the few groups at the time performing with a live band, consisting of three to five musicians, which set them apart in the industry. Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, the group released more hit albums such as Chattanooga Live and Live at The University of Alabama, which featured popular songs like “Old Ship of Zion” and “Excuses,” the latter becoming their biggest hit and holding the number one spot on the Southern Gospel charts for 18 months. The Kingsmen’s success has opened doors to prestigious opportunities, including performing at the White House for President Jimmy Carter in 1977 and at the 1982 World’s Fair opening ceremony in Knoxville, Tennessee, attended by President Ronald Reagan. They were the first group to film and record a live performance at the Grand Ole Opry, and their contributions have been recognized with inductions into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2000 and the Christian Music Hall of Fame in 2008. Garnering multiple Dove Awards and Singing News Fan Awards, including favorite male quartet and favorite band (a record 17 times), The Kingsmen have solidified their place as one of the most awarded groups in Southern Gospel Music. Today, The Kingsmen continue to spread their music and message under the leadership of long-time manager and bass singer Ray Dean Reese, who emphasizes their mission to share the message of Christ through their performances. The current lineup includes Reese, along with Brandon, Chris Jenkins, Chris Bryant, and Alan Kendall. Whether performing indoors, outdoors, or through studio recordings, The Kingsmen remain dedicated to their goal of reaching audiences and sharing the Gospel, keeping their legacy alive for future generations of music lovers.