Eugene Smith, a gospel music legend and an original member of the famed Roberta Martin Singers, died recently. His small stature somehow managed to produce one of the most incredible vocals as a lead singer and narrator in the gospel music industry.
Eugene Smith, a gospel music legend and an original member of the famed Roberta Martin Singers, died recently. His small stature somehow managed to produce one of the most incredible vocals as a lead singer and narrator in the gospel music industry.
“He earned the title Little Boy Gospel Wonder at nine years old in the National Baptist Convention,” L. Stanley Davis, gospel music historian, said.
“A lot of the choirs and small groups imitated Smith. He had this big voice with an uncanny gift to set up the song that was about to be performed,” said Davis, the former musician for the Barrett Sisters.
Longtime friend and fellow Roberta Martin Singers member, Delores Barrett Campbell, reflected on their musical journey.
“I have known Eugene for 67 years. We met each other at the age of 17 when I graduated from Englewood High School. I joined the Roberta Martin Singers in 1944, of course, he was the main lead singer,” Campbell said.
Smith was not quick to slow down, and continued blessing churches and music lovers with his gift of song.
“He was just on the front seat with me at Greater Harvest Church where I had to preach a few weeks ago,” said radio personality and recording artist, Deandre Patterson.
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