Biography
Blending classic gospel in the vein of the Swan Silvertones—one of the Hummers’ primary influences—with contemporary electrified gospel laced by blues and soul forms the Gospel Hummingbirds’ distinctive sound. Across roughly two decades their appearances have ranged from houses of worship and nightclubs to rock concerts and blues festivals, yet their exuberant celebration of God stays unchanged no matter the venue. Established in the 1970s by the father of lead vocalist and bass guitarist Joe A. Thomas, the Oakland-based ensemble has remained together ever since; Thomas himself joined the Hummingbirds on bass at age eight. As of 1995 the remaining members were Roy Tyler, Clarence Nichols, James Gibson, Jr., and Mark Smith, Sr.
Albums