SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW: JERRY PILGRIM OF MASTER'S VOICE
SOUTHERN GOSPEL SPOTLIGHT PRESENTS:
AN INTERVIEW WITH JERRY PILGRIM OF MASTER'S VOICE
(THIS INTERVIEW WILL ALSO APPEAR IN THE APRIL ISSUE OF SGN SCOOPS.)
Finding new artists to listen to and follow is something I greatly enjoy. A few months ago, I came across a group called Master’s Voice. Their dynamic sound and style caught my attention immediately. I then had the pleasure of reviewing their latest project Undivided in January which was their major label debut as a quartet. This CD greatly impressed me in three areas: production quality, song writing, and vocal performances. Each member shined on this project including bass singer Jerry Pilgrim. Pilgrim is no stranger to Southern Gospel Music having served as the final bass singer for the Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet. His smooth bass voice is a great addition to the group. Pilgrim definitely makes my list of favorite bass singers!
Let’s get to know Jerry Pilgrim!
Justin Gilmore: Hello Mr. Pilgrim! Thanks for taking the time to talk to me! How did you get your start in Southern Gospel music? Jerry Pilgrim: Justin, I appreciate your consideration of me for the interview. I've been singing most of my life, but I started my first quartet my first year of college. We called it Witness Inc. We recorded with the late Robert (Bob) MacKenzie and we were about to go full-time when the group fell apart. I think it was all happening so fast, it freaked us out. Since then I've been fortunate enough to sing with several full-time groups including The Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet and Monument.
Gilmore: Great! Who are your musical influences?
Pilgrim: I grew up watching The Gospel Singing Jubilee television show. I guess Billy Todd was my first influence in gospel music, along with too many others to name.
Gilmore: Speaking of Billy Todd, who is your favorite bass singer? Singer in general?
Pilgrim: Without a doubt, George Younce was my all-time favorite, because he could sing. My favorite living bass singer is Jeff Pearles. I think he's totally under rated by many.
Gilmore: George Younce was an incredible singer who also sang bass! Jeff Pearles is great as well! What is the lowest bass note you can hit?
Pilgrim: I hit the occasional double low F in concert. I've hit some lower notes, but it's unusual. All the stars have to be aligned so to speak.
Gilmore: That’s awesome!! Who are your favorite groups? Past or present
Pilgrim: As you've probably already guessed, the Cathedral Quartet was my favorite. I really like what the Kingdom Heirs are doing these days. Jeff Chapman is great.
Gilmore: Two of my absolute favorite groups as well! How did you get involved with Master’s Voice?
Pilgrim: Ricky Capps, the owner of Master's Voice, and I have known each other for about 15 years. We have talked off and on for the past 7 years about my joining the group. However, the timing was not right until last June.
Gilmore: Great! What is your favorite part about traveling with the group?
Pilgrim: Seeing folks get saved. The group makes evangelism a priority. One service last year the group witnessed 27 decisions one night. Just last week we saw 13 saved in a service. It's an honor and a thrill for us to get to be a part of that. And let me add, we all love each other and enjoy each other's company.
Gilmore: Awesome! That’s what it’s all about! What song do you enjoy singing the most?
Pilgrim: Probably a Daryl Williams tune called “Lord Of Mercy” from our most recent album.
Gilmore: One of my favorite songs on the project! What is your favorite Scripture verse?
Pilgrim: I would have to say Proverbs 3:5-6. God can take care of things so much better than I, if I will only trust Him.
Gilmore: Great word! One of my favorite verses! What is something people don’t know about you?
Pilgrim: That I'm an introvert. I have to work at being outgoing. Of course, my wife is just the opposite.
Gilmore: I’m an introvert as well! What is the most memorable experience you’ve had in your years of singing Gospel music?
Pilgrim: I suppose it would be my first night on main stage at NQC with the Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet. The outgoing bass, Jeff Pearles, sang one song then handed the mic off to me. I had never sung with the group prior to that night.
Gilmore: Awesome!! Any advice for aspiring Gospel Music singers?
Pilgrim: Keep doing what God has called you to do. Small venues, large venues, God's timing, planning, and His purpose will be accomplished. Don't give up.
Gilmore: Great advice! What can fans expect from the group this year?
Pilgrim: We have some exciting things happening this year including the Memphis Quartet Show, a tour in Canada, and a trip to Australia. But, we're excited every time we get to sing, where ever it may be.
Gilmore: Looking forward to what’s in store for you all! Thanks again for your time!
Pilgrim: Blessings.
For more information on Master’s Voice: visit www.mastersvoice.com