Philadelphia bred, The Famous Clara Ward Singers were at one time the most important and popular gospel groups of the post WWII era. You can hear their influence on Baby Boomer soul acts like Aretha Franklin, as Motown/Stax singers were weaned on Ward.
Hard to believe it today, but gospel music was a big time seller, and Ward had a handful of million sellers, such as “How I Got Over”, “Packin’ Up” and “Surely God is Able”. She had a powerful voice, and the harmonic and solo support by Henrietta Waddy, Marion Williams and Willa Ward Moultrie were able to get the most stodgy Methodist rolling down the aisles.
This three disc, 77 song collection includes Ward in various incarnations, including the early days of ‘The Famous Ward Singers of Philadelphia” with a stunning take of “I Need Thee Every Hour”. On her own, she is spellbinding on “I Don’t Know Why” and “At The Cross”. Leading the Ward Singers, there are riveting takes of “Get Back, Jordan” and the Sunday School special “This Little Light Of Mine”. As part of the Famous Ward Singers later on , there are holy rollin’ reads of “I’m So Glad” and “I Feel The Holy Spirit” while the standard “Rock of Ages” glows like a liturgical candle. Spirit and truth are delivered here.