Our Founder

R. H. Harris
“The Father of Gospel Music”
March 23, 1916 – September 3, 2000

Rebert “R. H.” Harris, born in Trinity, Texas, in 1916, was a pioneering gospel singer known as “The Father of Gospel Music.” His exposure to spirituals and blues from nearby prisoners shaped his musical style from a young age. He co-founded and led the Soul Stirrers in the 1930s, transforming gospel music with a slower, emotive style, and popularized the technique of trading lead vocals. Harris’s work helped the group gain national fame, and his influence continued even after his departure in 1950, when Sam Cooke joined as his successor. Harris later formed other groups and recorded albums, though none matched the success of the Soul Stirrers. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2000, Harris remains a legendary figure in gospel music.

(Source: Texas State Historical Association Online)