While the Inspirations do produce good records, I’ve been of the opinion for some time that their popularity stems from their live shows. This story in the Picayune (MS) Item is a good example why. The paper’s Lifestyles editor attended the concert, and, judging from the tone of the article, was quite impressed:
The crowd sang, clapped and shouted “amen” throughout the concert, as The Inspirations, a four part harmony group, gave the performance of a lifetime with mostly up tempo songs. …
The groups’ weaving harmonies, rounds, crescendos and decrescendos would melt even the hardest of hearts. Bass, Mike Holcomb, outshined in almost every song as his booming voice reverberated in the chest, and brought goose bumps to the flesh.
The most touching and beautiful song was performed a cappella and sung by a tenor voice lead. When the group joined in, again without accompaniment, the harmonies were spot on. The bass vocal line cut through while the tenor’s vibrato soared and floated above all four parts.
The author, Ginger Schmidt, concluded: “No matter your faith or belief, you will be inspired by the group. They live up to their name in every way.”
Whether or not you’re an Inspirations fan, it’s nice to see Southern Gospel groups winning over hearts of the merely curious in attendance.
