They were in the group before Sam he patterned his voice after a man that was already in the group.sam joined the group when he was 19. Admiring this man who he patterned his singing after. I can't remember the guy's name .
His powerful, inspiring Life Story is told inside the book "Whiteballed" True Story Of A Musical Legend. You'll read some amazing stories from his childhood in Shreveport to his days in Chicago!!
Also Richard Gibbs, baritone was Inez Andrews husband and Father of Richard Gibbs Jr the organist. Gibbs Sr replaced RB Robinson while Johnny Taylor was in the group
James had that Sam Cooke vibe. There really wasn’t a single Soul Stirrers lead after Sam who didn’t model himself after him. That’s how massive of an impact Sam Cooke had on not only Gospel music but generations of singers…..both black and white. I’m almost 50 and I’m still trying to sing like Sam Cooke…..rather unsuccessfully so I fear 😂