Does anyone have any info about this quartet?  I found a record dated 1977 at WJJC Radio Station in Commerce GA by this group.  It is titled “Can’t Hardly Wait”.

c pruitt - 21 March 2008 02:24 PM

Does anyone have any info about this quartet?  I found a record dated 1977 at WJJC Radio Station in Commerce GA by this group.  It is titled “Can’t Hardly Wait”.

If I remember correctly, they were from New Albany, MS or that general area.  Their leader was Leon Frazier, who played a full size, I believe Worlitzer organ, which they took with them, instead of a piano.  Leon is deceased, as far as I know and I can’t recall any of the other group member’s names.  I am sure Leon has kin folks in that area who could help you or if you have any friends, over 45 years old, from that area who followed Gospel Music, they might could help.

I believe The Heismen Quartet was from Corinth MS. [not far from New Albany]. In the 70’s they were THE prominent group from MS.! I think there is an annual gospel singing in that area also in recognition of the quartet? Try contacting WBIP radio station in Booneville MS.  Someone there should be able to point you to surviving members of The Heismen Quartet who I’m sure would be glad to give all the info you need.

Thanks!  I recorded it to a cd and have listened to it several times.  There are 5 songs written by Frazier on it.  I have taken a digital picture of the lp jacket for my files, but I doubt I can attach it to this reply due to its size.  I wish there was a slightly larger format of a scanner for the average person.  I could use one to scan lp jacket covers.  I know that there are some made for scanning blueprints, but they are pretty expensive.  If anyone in the area that this group was from is reading this and you are familiar with them, please contact me with more info on this group.  Hey, I’ll even send you a cd copy of the lp…

C Pruitt

The tenor was Dexter Benjamin. Similiar voice to Johnny Parrack and very good. The guy who sang bass for Gold City before Tim Riley was the bass. His name escapes ne right now. Probably the best known song by Leon Fraxier was “ The Next Time That You See Me” sung by the Dixie Melody Boys and others.

Thanks again!  Dallas Gilland (I think that is how you spell it..) was the bass you are thinking about.  I now recognize his picture on the cover.  Now I know the tenor and bass; still need 3 more…

Dallas Gilliland was the bass.  There is some info about him on google.  Also, You might try contacting Talmage Smith from Tupelo, MS who was in another fairly popular regional/local group, The Tidesmen, at that time.  I believe he would have some good information and would be glad to share it.

Thanks!  You have all been a great help…

According to a friend of mine the original members were
Leon Frazier organist
Dexter Benjamin tenor
Norman Benjamin lead
Dean Lawrence baritone
Bill (could not remember his last name) bass
These guys also held down full time jobs as well as singing and travelling
Leon & Norman worked for Wurlitzer; Dexter worked in a body shop, Dean was in construction, Bill was Sheriff @ Corinth for a while
If you would like more info contact Robin Clayton @ WLRC am 850 in Walnut Ms

Thanks to everyone who responded!  I knew this web site would help…