I have only recently immersed myself in the music of Bill and Gloria Gaither, but their songs have been percolating about my life for a long time. Indeed, their songs have become part of Christian consciousness.
Bill and Gloria Gaither have written over 600 songs, many of whom had made their way into modern hymnals. Since both of them worked as teachers, their songs are very direct and to the point. Gloria is usually the lyricist, and a very underrated one at that, while Bill usually writes the music. Bill Gaither is a very big fan of classic Gospel music, and through his Homecoming series and the work of the Gaither Vocal Band, Gospel music is now as popular as its ever been. Here are a few of the Gaither’s best loved and best known songs.
He Touched Me – This may be the first song that put the Gaithers on the map. Most notably covered by Elvis Presley, this song is a modern Gospel standard. Most notably these days, it is sung by Mark Lowry, formerly baritone of the Gaither Vocal Band.
Because He Lives – written about the Gaither’s son, Benjy, this song is now a part of hymnals every where
Loving God, Loving Each Other – this song is a newer Gaither composition. Gaither calls it “our mission statement”. It is a classic 4-part harmony song, usually led by Guy Penrod, in the blended country/gospel style.
More Than Ever – this song was new to me although it is credited somewhere in the early 1980’s to Bill and Gloria. The song speaks about lifes troubles and how the narrator comes to love and appreciate Christ’s sacrifice. It is most beautifully sung by tenor David Phelps, along with Penrod, Lowry, and Bill Gaither on I Do Believe.
Sinner Saved By Grace – This song has long been a Gaither standard, and it comes out from time to time on Gaither albums. It provides a stirring close to I Do Believe.
The King Is Coming – this song is another one from the vast Gaither canon. It has been covered by many artists. I first heard in many years ago on the Holy Bible album by the Statler Brothers. It has been sung by various lineups of the Gaither Vocal Band, and at many of their homecoming events.
Many of us who listen to modern Contemporary Christian music, tend to forget the music of Bill and Gloria Gaither. One on hand, Southern Gospel might seem antiquated to some. But a little closer look, reveals two servants of God who speak about His truth and love so eloquently in their music. It bears a second look for all of us. Gaither music is now a very wide-reaching enterprise. There are dozens and dozens of Homecoming, Gaither Trio, and Gaither Vocal band recordings and videos. Their Homecoming tours are among the highest grossing tours in the United States. Obviously they’re doing something right. (…abiding in the vine).
