Our Story

The Imperials: Pioneers of Contemporary Christian Music

ESTABLISHED 1964 | SIX DECADES OF MUSIC & MINISTRY

For more than six decades, The Imperials have stood as a cornerstone of American Christian music. Originally formed as a Southern Gospel quartet, this groundbreaking ensemble became one of the pioneering forces behind the contemporary Christian music movement. Throughout their remarkable history, The Imperials have continually evolved in membership and musical style while maintaining an unwavering commitment to musical excellence and ministry.

Their extraordinary legacy includes four Grammy Awards, 15 Dove Awards, and induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, establishing their place among the most influential groups in the history of Christian music.

The Beginning with Jake Hess

1963–1966 | THE FOUNDING YEARS

The story of The Imperials began on December 7, 1963, when Jake Hess, a celebrated member of the legendary Statesmen Quartet, decided to retire from the group. Driven by a vision to establish a new ensemble that would make its mark on the Southern Gospel music scene, Hess adopted the name "The Imperials" with the approval of Marion Snider, who had previously operated an Imperial Quartet named after Imperial Sugar.

Hess carefully assembled an exceptional group of musicians to bring his vision to life. The original lineup included pianist Henry Slaughter, formerly of the Weatherford Quartet; baritone Gary McSpadden; bass singer Armond Morales; and tenor Sherrill (Shaun) Nielsen, formerly of the Speer Family.

Together, these talented musicians established the foundation for a group determined to elevate Southern Gospel music through exceptional vocal arrangements, musicianship, and an unmistakable commitment to excellence.

The First Recordings

In 1964, The Imperials secured a recording contract with Benson Records and released their first album under the Heart Warming Records label. This pivotal achievement marked the beginning of a prolific recording career and introduced the group to an expanding audience.

The following year, the ensemble relocated from Atlanta, Georgia, to Nashville, Tennessee, placing them at the heart of the American Gospel music industry.

As the group continued to grow, membership changes became part of its evolution. After approximately two years, tenor Sherrill Nielsen departed and was succeeded by Jim Murray, whose previous musical experience included The Melodaires, the Stamps Trio, the Inspirationals, and the Orrell Quartet. Shortly thereafter, Henry Slaughter also left the group, making way for Joe Moscheo, formerly of the Harmoneers, to assume the piano position.

Through these early transitions, The Imperials remained committed to musical excellence, innovation, and the development of a distinctive sound.

What began as Jake Hess's vision for a remarkable Southern Gospel quartet would soon become something much larger—a musical ministry that would help shape the future of Christian music for generations.

The Elvis Era

1966–1972 | A NEW SOUND & NEW AUDIENCES

In late 1966, following the departure of Henry Slaughter, Jake Hess sought to revitalize the group's sound by assembling a new instrumental band. The revamped lineup featured Joe Moscheo on piano, Larry Benson contributing drums, keyboards, bass, and other instruments, and Dave Mathis on electric guitar. Within a few months, Ron Hamm took over the guitar position, further strengthening the group's evolving contemporary sound.

As 1967 progressed, Hess began experiencing health challenges, including heart problems that forced him to step away from touring. By the end of the year, under doctor's orders, he retired from the road and entrusted the group's leadership to Armond Morales, Joe Moscheo, and Jim Murray. During this transitional period, Gary McSpadden also chose to leave the lineup.

To strengthen the group's musical direction, two new members were added: Roger Wiles, formerly of the Melodaires, and Terry Blackwood, who had previously performed with the Stamps Quartet.

The newly formed ensemble continued under the name The Imperials, moving away from the original Jake Hess and the Imperials branding. Their growing commitment to a contemporary sound was reflected in the release of the album New Dimensions.

The project marked a significant turning point in the group's career and helped establish its new musical identity. In 1969, The Imperials received the Gospel Music Association's recognition as Male Quartet of the Year, signaling the beginning of an especially fruitful chapter in their history.

Recording & Performing with Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley's deep affection for gospel music—and particularly his admiration for renowned vocalist Jake Hess—played an important role in his musical journey.

From May 1966 through June 1971, The Imperials recorded with Elvis, contributing their distinctive harmonies to several of his celebrated projects. The album How Great Thou Art earned a Grammy Award for its title track, while Hess's memorable performance with Elvis on the classic Statesmen song "If the Lord Wasn't Walking by My Side" became another notable moment in their musical association.

The Grammy-winning album He Touched Me also featured several songs that The Imperials had previously recorded.

In 1969, when Elvis invited the Jordanaires to join him for his Las Vegas performances, they declined because of their existing commitments as Nashville studio singers. The Imperials were allowed to step in, beginning an association that brought their voices to the stage alongside one of the most influential entertainers in music history.

During this same period, the group also appeared on The Jimmy Dean Show, further demonstrating its versatility and broad appeal.

The Larry Gatlin Connection

In the fall of 1970, Larry Gatlin auditioned for The Imperials. By early 1971, he had been allowed to join the group and performed alongside Jimmy Dean in Las Vegas.

His time with The Imperials, however, was brief—lasting less than a month. With encouragement and support from Dottie West, Gatlin soon pursued a solo career in country music. His departure opened the door for Greg Gordon to join the group.

By November 1971, scheduling conflicts led The Imperials to bring their concert appearances with Elvis to a close, ending a remarkable chapter in the group's history. The following year, they also concluded their engagements with Jimmy Dean, marking another transition in their musical journey.

The Elvis years represented far more than a series of recording sessions and concert appearances. They placed The Imperials at the intersection of gospel, popular music, and an emerging contemporary sound.

Their work with Elvis Presley helped introduce their extraordinary harmonies to a broader audience and secured a lasting place in one of the most memorable chapters of American music history.

“Our story isn't defined by a single era, but by every voice, every song, and every step of faith that brought us here.”

THE IMPERIALS

Breaking New Ground in Contemporary Christian Music

1972–1981 | PIONEERING THE CCM MOVEMENT

In the early 1970s, The Imperials emerged as one of the pioneering forces in Contemporary Christian Music (CCM), challenging traditional expectations and helping redefine the sound of Christian music.

Their willingness to embrace new musical styles and broaden the boundaries of gospel music positioned them at the forefront of a movement that would transform the Christian music industry.

Sherman Andrus & Breaking the Color Barrier

In February 1972, the addition of Sherman Andrus marked a significant milestone in the group's history.

Andrus became the first African American member of The Imperials, helping break the color barrier in Christian music. His arrival represented more than a change in personnel; it reflected the group's willingness to move beyond convention and embrace a broader musical and cultural landscape.

Andrus later humorously described their pioneering spirit with the words, "to boldly go where no black man had gone before."

The lineup featuring Andrus and Terry Blackwood as shared lead vocalists brought The Imperials tremendous acclaim and helped establish their contemporary musical identity.

This successful partnership continued until the mid-1970s. Following the recording of Follow the Man with the Music, founding member Joe Moscheo departed. Not long afterward, Andrus and Blackwood also left to form Andrus, Blackwood & Company.

Their departures marked the end of one successful chapter and challenged the remaining members to once again redefine the group's sound and direction.

1964 – Today · The Imperials