SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW WITH RANDY CRAWFORD OF THE KINGSMEN

SOUTHERN GOSPEL SPOTLIGHT PRESENTS

AN INTERVIEW WITH RANDY CRAWFORD OF THE KINGMSEN

Randy Crawford has been a member of the legendary Kingsmen Quartet since 2001 serving at both the lead and baritone positions. Crawford currently provides the smooth and powerful baritone vocals for the group. He has become one of Southern Gospel Music's most popular baritone vocalists and gives standout performances time and time again. I was glad to be able to interview him via Facebook. I want to thank Mr. Crawford for taking time out of his busy schedule to participate in this interview. So without further ado, here it is:

J. Gilmore: How did you get your start in Southern Gospel music?

R. Crawford: Didn’t really start singing until my Junior year of high school. Was never in youth choir or anything like that. Grew up on the music. I began singing part time when I was 17, started my own group (70x7) in 1994 which went full time in 1995. Brian Free hired me to sing lead in 1996 and I went to the Kingsmen in 2001.

J. Gilmore: Awesome! Who are your musical influences?

R. Crawford: EVERYTHING! I have a minor in music so I appreciate all types of music. Classical, jazz, classic rock, old school country (not new country), and a lot of instrumental independent music.

J. Gilmore: That's great! Who is your favorite singer in Gospel or secular music?

R. Crawford: Gospel music, Larnelle Harris, HANDS DOWN. Best vocalist that has ever drawn a breath in ANY style of music. In secular, my favorite band is the Eagles. My favorite vocalists are Karen Carpenter and Mickey Thomas.

J. Gilmore: Great! Larnelle Harris is an incredible vocalist! Who are your favorite groups? Past or present.

R. Crawford: Imperials with Terry Blackwood and Sherman Andrus was a huge favorite.

J. Gilmore: Awesome! How did you come in contact with the Kingsmen?

R. Crawford: I had known the guys since 1996, and when they had an opening at lead, Mr. Fox called me. I was not singing at the time.

J. Gilmore: That must have been exciting to get that call! What has been the best part of traveling with Ray and The Kingsmen?

R. Crawford: Hearing the stories from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. I love the behind the scenes history of SGM.

J. Gilmore: Great! What is your favorite song to sing?

R. Crawford: How Beautiful Heaven Must Be

J. Gilmore: What is your favorite Scripture verse?

R. Crawford: Exodus 15:2

J. Gilmore: Good word! What is the best advice or words of wisdom you have received from Ray Dean Reese?

R. Crawford: Give the same effort night in and night out. No matter what, give your best.

J. Gilmore: You definintley follow that advice. What is something that people might not know about you?

R. Crawford: I am an ordained Christian Church minister. And I am the last person Eldridge Fox hired before he passed away.

J. Gilmore: Wow! I was not aware of that!! What is the most memorable experience you’ve had in your years of singing Gospel music?

R. Crawford: Singing on the NBC Today Show. (Brian Free & Assurance)

J. Gilmore: Awesome! Any advice for aspiring Gospel artists?

R. Crawford: There is no way to answer this question in without expounding for at least 5 pages . . .but I will say this – just because you WANT to sing for a living doesn’t mean you can or should. Just because your church friends and family say you are a “great singer” doesn’t mean it’s time to quit your job! LOL Seek out professional advice from an ARTIST as well as a respected vocal coach before you start your praying and seeking for God’s will. Just because YOU want to be there, doesn’t mean GOD wants or needs you there.

J. Gilmore: Great! What can fans expect from the group this year?

R. Crawford: Great traditional Kingsmen sound with renewed Kingsmen excitement! Our new project Battle Cry is full of incredible songs with a traditional Kingsmen sound AND songs with a fresh feel that will appeal to all listeners. The songs are blessings to us and uplift the spirit and glorify the Lord.

J. Gilmore: Awesome! Thanks again for your time!

For more information on Randy and The Kingsmen, visit their website: http://kingsmenquartet.musiccitynetworks.com/index.htm