The Blind Boys of Alabama are a gospel group from Alabama that first formed at the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind at Talladega, Alabama in 1939. The three main vocalists of the group and their drummer/percussionist are all blind. As of 2010, The Blind Boys of Alabama continue to tour nationally and internationally, with Jimmy Carter singing lead vocals. In 2006, Clarence Fountain, the group’s former long-time lead vocalist and founding member limited his touring for health reasons. Founding member George Scott died on March 9, 2005 at the age of 75. Another founding member, Johnny Fields, died on November 12, 2009.
In February 2010, The Blind Boys performed at the White House for President Obama and the First Lady along with Bob Dylan, Natalie Cole, John Mellencamp, and Smokey Robinson.
In April 2011, the band released “Take The High Road” in Australia and followed it with a headlining tour that included the East and West Coast Bluesfest and the Sydney Opera House. The CD, which will be released in the U.S. May 3rd, features guest artists Willie Nelson, Vince Gill, Lee Ann Womack, Hank Williams Jr., The Oak Ridge Boys, and Nashville heavyweight Jamey Johnson, who also co-produced the record.
article courtesy of Elev8.com
