Kingsmen Quartet Concert at Pipestem State Park July 31

            PIPESTEM, W.Va. – If there's a gospel music group whose name inspires thoughts of pure, passionate, solid and true music, it's The Kingsmen. They've encouraged and uplifted listeners with their unique gospel music style since the origin of the group in 1956.  Pipestem Resort State Park in Summers County will host The Kingsmen in concert on Saturday, July 31, at 8 p.m. in the park’s amphitheater.

            With countless CDs and compilations sold, Grammy nominations, four Dove Awards and an induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2000, this certainly solidifies The Kingsmen as one of gospel music’s leading quartets. The momentum has not stopped as the group helps define the southern gospel genre for a whole new generation of music lovers, perhaps more so than any other group.

            The appearance of The Kingsmen at Pipestem Resort State Park has special significance as several group members through the years have been from West Virginia.  According to concert promoter Stan Wikle, the group’s current pianist, Cody McVey, hails from Alderson.  McVey is one of the youngest pianists in gospel music.  Other West Virginians who have performed with The Kingsmen include Squire Parsons and Ernie Phillips.

            “There aren't too many groups today that can boast the kind of far-reaching legacy that comes with a 50-year career as some of gospel music's most influential artists,” says Wikle. “The Kingsmen emerged in the 1950s with their own distinct style, unleashing music that would solidify them as pioneers in the southern gospel music field. The Kingsmen continue to carry the legacy on today.”

            Advance tickets for the concert may be purchased at the park's McKeever Lodge or nature center.  Advance tickets are $8 and are $10 when purchased at the gate.  The Kingsmen concert is part of the park’s Summer Amphitheater Series. For additional information about the appearance of The Kingsmen at Pipestem Resort State Park, please contact the park at 304-466-1800 or visit online at www.pipestemresort.com.