Biography
This bass vocalist entered the world as Tommy yet received billing predominantly under the name Johnny across most recordings and performances tied to the gospel ensembles he joined. His career launched in the early 1940s alongside the Reliable Jubilee Singers in Atlanta, followed by an extended period with the Dixieaires—the original Black gospel outfit, distinct from the later Southern white group that later claimed the identical title. The adopted stage name Johnny Hines originated from a nickname, though scattered credits also list the performer’s uncommonly deep register correctly as Thomas Hines or, more casually, as Tom Hines; all three designations refer to the identical artist.
After the Reliable Jubilee Singers dissolved in New York City, Hines found himself stranded without means to return home. He began sampling the local gospel circuit, auditioning with multiple aggregations before securing a place in the Dixieaires amid one of the group’s frequent membership changes. That revised roster enjoyed solid success through the close of the 1940s, including a tour that reached 22 states.
The following decade brought successive departures: first the ensemble’s regular manager and accompanist, then founder and spiritual leader Caleb Ginyard. Hines maintained the bass foundation until the final dissolution. Shortly afterward he spent a brief interval with the doo wop and R&B outfit the Dominoes.
After the Reliable Jubilee Singers dissolved in New York City, Hines found himself stranded without means to return home. He began sampling the local gospel circuit, auditioning with multiple aggregations before securing a place in the Dixieaires amid one of the group’s frequent membership changes. That revised roster enjoyed solid success through the close of the 1940s, including a tour that reached 22 states.
The following decade brought successive departures: first the ensemble’s regular manager and accompanist, then founder and spiritual leader Caleb Ginyard. Hines maintained the bass foundation until the final dissolution. Shortly afterward he spent a brief interval with the doo wop and R&B outfit the Dominoes.
Singles