Meet The Imperials
CHRISTIAN MUSIC LEGENDS SINCE 1964
Founded in 1964 by gospel music pioneer Jake Hess, The Imperials have played a significant role in the development of Southern gospel and contemporary Christian music for more than six decades.
Known for their distinctive harmonies, innovative musical arrangements, and numerous award-winning recordings, The Imperials helped introduce Christian music to audiences beyond traditional gospel settings.
Their career includes four Grammy Awards, numerous Dove Awards, and induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 1998. The group also performed and recorded with Elvis Presley, contributed to the growth of contemporary Christian music, and produced songs that remain familiar to generations of listeners.
Today, Rick Evans, Paul Smith, Ron Hemby, and Rod Fletcher continue performing as The Imperials, combining the group's established catalog with their individual musical experiences and commitment to Christian ministry.
Rod Fletcher
Paul Smith
Ron Hemby
Rick Evans
Our Music & Ministry
The Imperials' music has evolved through several generations, beginning with traditional Southern gospel and expanding into contemporary Christian, inspirational, and pop-influenced recordings.
Their catalog includes well-known songs such as Praise the Lord, Bread Upon the Water, He Touched Me, The Trumpet of Jesus, Let the Wind Blow, and Stand by the Power.
Today, their concerts feature selections from the group's extensive recording history, combining familiar favorites with personal stories and messages centered on Christian faith.
Their performances provide an opportunity for longtime listeners to revisit the songs they remember while introducing younger audiences to music that helped shape the contemporary Christian genre.
The group continues recording and collaborating with other artists. Their recent projects include the BLESSED EP and DVD and a collaboration with country music artist Michael Peterson on He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother, which reached #1 on the European Country Music Top 40 in 2025.
A Brief Look at Our History
The Imperials were formed in 1964 by Jake Hess, formerly of the Statesmen Quartet. The original group included Hess, Gary McSpadden, Armond Morales, Sherrill Nielsen, and pianist Henry Slaughter.
Throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, The Imperials expanded their musical style and audience. Their work with Elvis Presley included studio recordings and live performances, notably Presley's 1969 Las Vegas engagement.
In 1972, Sherman Andrus joined the group, helping break the color barrier in Christian music and marking an important moment in the group's history.
During the 1970s and 1980s, members including Russ Taff, David Will, Jim Murray, and Paul Smith contributed to recordings that established The Imperials as influential figures in contemporary Christian music.
The group's contributions were recognized with numerous awards, including their 1998 induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.
For a complete history of the members, musical eras, recordings, and milestones, explore our historical archive.
Management & Representation
THE MUSIC ASSOCIATES, LLC
Pat Melfi
Chief Executive Officer | Artist Management & Concert Production
Pat Melfi is an entertainment executive, artist manager, and international concert promoter with decades of experience in the music industry. As CEO of The Music Associates, LLC, he specializes in artist representation, concert production, international touring, marketing, and entertainment business development.
His career has included executive-level responsibilities with MCA Records and Alexas Entertainment in Los Angeles, including work in international sales, financial management, artist development, concert touring, and promotional campaigns.
Beyond the recording and touring industries, Pat has worked in real estate development and acquisitions related to entertainment venues throughout the United States. He is also a licensed real estate professional affiliated with Berkshire Hathaway's Luxury Collection.
International Concert Production
Throughout his career, Pat has produced and managed international concert tours involving some of the most recognized artists in rock, country, and popular music.
His professional credits include concert productions and touring work associated with:
Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
The Who
The Rolling Stones
Pink Floyd
The Eagles
Elton John
Bad Company
Vince Gill
Rod Stewart
Alabama
Creedence Clearwater Revival
Collin Raye
Rascal Flatts
Barry Manilow
Carole King
Peter Cetera
Travis Tritt
His experience encompasses concert production, international tour management, financial oversight, venue development, and multi-platform marketing campaigns.
Industry Recognition
FIVE-TIME CONCERT PROMOTER OF THE YEAR
Pat's contributions to concert promotion have been recognized with five Promoter of the Year honors throughout his career.
Years of Recognition
1975 — First Promoter of the Year recognition
1978 — Second recognition
1980 — Third recognition
1987 — Fourth recognition
1991 — Fifth recognition
These honors reflect his longstanding work in live entertainment and concert production.
Artist Management & Representation
In addition to touring and concert production, Pat has represented recording artists and entertainers across several genres.
His previous management experience includes Grammy-winning country artist Rebecca Lynn Howard, multi-platinum recording artists Champaign, country artist Collin Raye, singer and former Santana member Leon Patillo, and actress Aura Figueiredo.
Today, The Music Associates provides management and representation for The Imperials and country recording artist Michael Peterson, who also collaborates with The Imperials as a songwriter and producer.
Supporting Music & Arts Education
MUZART WORLD FOUNDATION™
Pat is also the founder of MuzArt World Foundation™, an initiative dedicated to expanding access to music and arts education for children.
The foundation's mission includes developing private funding and endowment support to help restore and strengthen arts education programs in public schools.
The initiative has brought together musicians and creative professionals, including Leon Patillo, Mark Wood of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, singer Jackie Evancho, and young visual artist Aelita Andre.
Through MuzArt World Foundation™, Pat seeks to extend the positive influence of music beyond concert stages and recording studios by helping create educational opportunities for future generations.
Contact Management
The Music Associates, LLC
Pat Melfi, CEO
Phone: 801-792-6970
Email: Pat.Melfi@gmail.com