One of the most influential and longest-lived African American gospel quartets, the Soul Stirrers was founded in East Texas by Silas Roy Crain, and it enjoyed tremendous popularity during the 1940s and 1950s. Its many outstanding lead singers have included Rebert H. Harris (ca. 1916–2000), Sam Cooke (1931–1964), and Johnnie Taylor (1938–2000).
The origination of the Soul Stirrers came in stages through the convergence of multiple groups of gospel singers in East Texas. Silas Roy...