January Cover Story
Clarence Fountain & The Blind Boys of Alabama

by Tony Engelhart

1/31 @ Broadway Center, Tacoma, 7:30pm;
2/1, w/Electrifying Mighty Warriors Spiritual Singers @ Cinerama Theatre, Seattle, 8pm.

Formed in 1937, as The Five Blind Boys of Alabama, these gospel singers are more than just outstanding musicians-they are an institution. The Blind Boys' first hit was 1949's "I Can See Everybody's Mother but Mine". However, it wasn't until the late 1990s-with their current lineup: Joe Watson, Jimmy Carter, Sam & Bobby Butler, Curtis Foster, Johnny Fields, and Clarence Fountain-that the Boys began to taste fame.
After signing with Peter Gabriel's label, Realworks, they released Spirit Of The Century. The record was critically-acclaimed and won the Blind Boys a Grammy in 2001 for Best Gospel Recording. They collaborated on two songs for Peter Gabriel's last recording UP, before returning to the studio to lay down tracks for Higher Ground. The finished product was a collection of very uplifting and spiritual songs. In addition to the Stevie Wonder title track, the album also contains such notable songs as Jimmy Cliff's "Many Rivers To Cross", Curtis Mayfield's "People Get Ready", and Prince's "The Cross". Higher Ground sent these gifted singers on a journey that continues to gain momentum. After many television appearances, including David Letterman, The Tonight Show, Austin City Limits, and a feature on 60 Minutes II, the Blind Boys are finding a wider audience than ever before. They joined Peter Gabriel on the opening leg of his 2002 tour.
In addition, The Blind Boys of Alabama have been nominated for a 2002 NAACP Image Award for "Outstanding Gospel Artist". The NAACP Image Awards honor individuals and groups of all nationalities that promote positive images of people of color. If you missed this incredible gospel group's appearance with Peter Gabriel last month, you now have two more chances.

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