J.D. Sumner

about

"J. D." Sumner was born in Lakeland, Florida. Sumner was inspired to become a bass singer at the age of four after hearing Frank Stamps perform. He began developing his talent from that moment. Sumner served in the United States military during World War II from 1942 until his discharge in 1945. He began to pursue his dream of being a bass singer when he formed the "Sunny South Quartet." He began to make a name for himself after joining the "Sunshine Boys" in 1948. In 1954 James Blackwood asked Sumner to replace Bill Lyles in the The Blackwood Brothers' bass slot when R. W. Blackwood and Lyles lost their lives in a plane crash. After joining the Blackwood Brothers, Sumner's fame began to skyrocket. Sumner and James Blackwood soon became partners in a number of business ventures that took on a life of their own. In 1956, they formed the National Quartet Convention, an event which continues to be the largest event in gospel music. Sumner dubbed it "the Granddaddy of them all." Sumner and Blackwood also formed the Gospel Music Association, which recognizes achievement annually in all forms of gospel music through the Dove Awards. Sumner and Blackwood adapted the first bus for touring purposes. The two men purchased the Stamps Quartet in 1963. Sumner continued to sing with the Blackwood Brothers for a period of time after this. He ultimately decided to leave the group and sing with the Stamps so he could manage them directly. It is during this time JD decided that each singer

top songs

albums

Southern Gospel Heritage Series - J.D. Sumner and The Stamps

Let's Have Church

An Evening of Memories and Song: Remembering Elvis Presley

From the Vault

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Bill Remembers Old Friends

The Final Sessions

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Homecoming Texas Style

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All Day Singin'

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Ryman Gospel Reunion

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All Day Singin At The Dome

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Something Beautiful

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Bill Gaither Remembers Old Friends

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