I've had a few e-mails lately regarding my "silence" on the upcoming retirement of the Florida Boys. I realize that practically every other Southern Gospel blogger out there has offered words regarding this, and I suppose I should have by now, as well.
It can be difficult to sum up a 60-year career and several years of personal friendships in a few words on the Internet. When I heard of the Florida Boys' retirement, the first thing that went through my mind was "Southern Gospel music without the Florida Boys?" For someone who's been in this business practically all of his life, that's a shock to the system.
Like many readers of Singing News, I grew up watching the "Gospel Singing Jubilee," and my love for Southern Gospel music was greatly fostered by that hour-long program. But then I got to know Les, Glen and Derrell - and I say that with the greatest respect - and compiled a railroad car full of memories to last me a lifetime.
"Brother Jones" is the way Les greeted me practically every time we ran into each other at a concert. He'd share his latest bus story and before long would have me completely enthralled with a tale from the Florida Boys' history - trust me, he's got some doozies. But one doesn't have to be around Les long to realize that he's a sharp quartet manager, and he loves this music and its people.
Les has always been a great friend to me, and I'll never forget that.
Les isn't the only one with lots of stories. Derrell would usually start a conversation with me with the words, "Did I tell you about..." Two or three - or a dozen - jokes later, he'd settle down; and we'd move on to other things.
Derrell, without realizing it, created one of my favorite Southern Gospel moments several years ago in Fresno, California. Remember the issue of Singing News that featured Derrell on the cover? He didn't know that was in the works; and when I handed him the first copy, that was the first (and only) time I've ever seen Derrell speechless. The tears in his eyes told me then how much that meant to him.
Glen has never failed to sing the opening lines of "Oh, Danny Boy" when he's greeted me. Then he'd share his latest gardening successes or mention that right now would be the perfect time for a big ol' plate of fresh vegetables.
Glen would be the first one to debate me when I say that he holds a place in history as one of the best baritones ever. Despite what he may want to think, Glen has the utmost respect - as a singer, but more importantly as a person - from everyone who has ever heard his name.
To Les, Glen and Derrell, thank you for you dedication to Southern Gospel music. While we hate to see you step back from the stage, we understand the desire to spend well-earned time at home. Your families have shared you for six decades, and now it's their time.
They'll love spending time with you just as much as we have.
