Blind Boys of Alabama: Gospel Music Legends

The Blind Boys of Alabama are an iconic American gospel vocal group whose career spans over eight decades. Originating from the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind, the group achieved mainstream success in the 21st century, winning five Grammy Awards and earning a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009.

Early career

The group first formed in 1939 at the Talladega Institute for the Negro Deaf and Blind. Originally known as the Happy Land Jubilee Singers, the founding members included Clarence Fountain, Jimmy Carter, George Scott, and Johnny Fields.

They began performing on the gospel circuit, developing a reputation for their powerful harmonies and energetic stage presence. Their early recordings, like the 1948 single "I Can See Everybody's Mother But Mine," were released on the Vee-Jay label and established them within the traditional gospel community.

Breakthrough

The group's major breakthrough into the wider public consciousness came with their participation in the 1983 Obie Award-winning musical "The Gospel at Colonus." This theatrical production reimagined Sophocles' tragedy through gospel music and introduced the Blind Boys to a new, secular audience.

Their true commercial and critical renaissance, however, began in 2001 with the album Spirit of the Century on Peter Gabriel's Real World label. This album won the Grammy Award for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album and featured their celebrated cover of Tom Waits' "Way Down in the Hole."

Key tracks

Way Down in the Hole — This Tom Waits cover became their signature song after being featured as the theme for the HBO series "The Wire."

Amazing Grace — Their rendition, often performed to the tune of "The House of the Rising Sun," is a staple of their live shows and a definitive version of the hymn.

People Get Ready — Their collaboration with Solomon Burke on this Curtis Mayfield classic won a Grammy for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album in 2005.

Higher Ground — This Stevie Wonder cover, featuring Ben Harper, won a Grammy for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album in 2004.

Following their resurgence, the Blind Boys of Alabama collaborated with a staggering array of artists across genres, including Lou Reed, Mavis Staples, Willie Nelson, and Bon Iver. Albums like Go Tell It on the Mountain and Down in New Orleans continued to earn Grammy recognition. Their 2021 album Echoes of the South added another Grammy to their collection, proving their enduring vitality. The group's lineup has evolved over the decades, with Jimmy Carter remaining a constant member and leader following the passing of Clarence Fountain. For fans of the Blind Boys' deep-rooted gospel sound, explore similar artists featured on our site like Mavis Staples, who also blends gospel with soul and protest music. Discover Fairfield Four for their historic a cappella quartet harmonies. Listen to Shirley Caesar for the power of traditional gospel preaching and song. The music of Five Blind Boys Of Mississippi offers a parallel history from their friendly rivals.

The Blind Boys of Alabama maintain a strong presence on radio, featured on stations dedicated to gospel, Americana, and classic soul. Their timeless recordings are staples on public radio music programs and specialty shows highlighting spiritual and roots music traditions.

The enduring music of the Blind Boys of Alabama can be heard on gospel and roots music radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover their vast catalog and legendary harmonies by tuning into the radio stations available on onairium.com.