Stamps Quartet returns to Wesleyan

The Stamps Quartet, which boasts the longest history of any gospel quartet, originally formed in 1924. V.O. Stamps was the first to introduce Southern-style gospel singing across America.

The group returns to Carson City on Tuesday for a performance at Good Shepherd Wesleyan Church.

The original Stamps Quartet was the first to record gospel songs for a major recording company. The Victor label's "Give the World a Smile" became the theme song for the quartet, and a little less than a million copies were sold. Quartet-style music has changed, but the work of these pioneers paved the roads for gospel music today.

The perseverance and originality of the first Stamps Quartet enabled the gospel music industry to increase in popularity. In 1971, the quartet started performing regularly with Elvis Presley on many recordings and concerts as back-up artists, until Presley's death in 1977.

"We attempt to book Southern gospel concerts at least once a month to expose the western area to the roots of gospel music," said the Rev. Marvin H. Dennis of Good Shepherd Wesleyan Church.

"The Stamps, being the oldest organized gospel quartet, bring with them the condition, spirit and enthusiasm that Southern gospel music lovers have come to enjoy."

Dennis said for those who have not been exposed to Southern gospel, attending a local concert would be a wonderful way to gain exposure to the music that has "helped make America what she is."

"The Stamps also sang on various projects with Elvis, who loved Southern gospel music. They always do a good job when they perform. This would be a good place to start (for those who have not heard Southern gospel). Many singers today got their start in gospel music."

The Stamps Quartet was the first professional gospel quartet to sing worldwide via television by satellite on Presley's "Aloha From Hawaii" video. The Stamps also appeared in Elvis' video and television special "Elvis on Tour" and on his "He Touched Me" videos.

The Stamps are known as being the best "professional" gospel quartet, with a distinctive "full-sound." In terms of harmony, diction, syncopation, repertoire and appearance, many consider the quartet unsurpassed in gospel or the secular music industries.

Ed Enoch is the quartet's owner, manager and lead singer. The Stamps make recordings, are regularly seen on television, and constantly tour the United States, Canada, Hawaii and Europe and Asia performing gospel, secular and Elvis' music.

Good Shepherd Wesleyan Church is at 1505 Railroad Drive, at the corner of Saliman Road. For information, call 885-8361.

n Contact Rhonda Costa-Landers at rcosta-landers@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.