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THE WORLD FAMOUS SOUL STIRRERS WELCOME HOME GOSPEL LEGEND

 MR. WILLIE ROGERS

Gospel Icon Comes Out of Retirement to Join Jeffery Moore for New Original Music and The Soul Stirrers Centennial Tour Honoring a Legend: Mr. Willie Rogers

SAVANNAH, GEORGIA – July 29, 2026 — Gospel music history is being written once again as The World Famous Soul Stirrers proudly announce the return of legendary vocalist Mr. Willie Rogers, who has officially come out of retirement to record and perform new original music under Ruff Moore Media during the group's historic 100th Centennial Celebration. As part of this once-in-a-lifetime milestone, the organization will honor Mr. Rogers with its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Honor, celebrating his extraordinary contributions to gospel music and his enduring legacy as one of the greatest quartet singers of all time.

For the first time in years, one of gospel music's most revered voices has returned to the recording studio, proving that true legends never retire—they simply wait for the right moment to make history again.

Known throughout the gospel music industry as "The Humble Giant," Willie Rogers is one of the most respected and celebrated voices in quartet history. His remarkable career spans decades of ministry, musical excellence, and worldwide recognition. Rogers was a member of the legendary Soul Stirrers during the era following the arrival of the incomparable Sam Cooke and played a significant role in preserving the group's historic legacy by selecting the late Arthur Crume to become a member of the organization.

Jeffery Moore, co-founder of Ruff Moore Media and leader of the World Famous Soul Stirrers, was personally brought into the organization in 2003 by Arthur Crume and Leroy Crume. Leroy Crume helped usher the legendary Sam Cooke into the Soul Stirrers, making this reunion a meaningful continuation of one of gospel music's greatest lineages.

Although Moore has spent much of his career working behind the scenes as a producer, songwriter, visionary, arranger, and musical director, Rogers believed it was finally time for the world to know the man behind the music.

"Jeffery, it's time for you to come out and come forth so people will know who you are," Rogers told Moore.

Throughout his extraordinary career, Willie Rogers has ministered before presidents, kings, world leaders, and distinguished audiences around the world. His voice has been heard at nationally recognized celebrations, celebrity events, memorial services, and historic occasions throughout the United States. He has appeared alongside President Barack Obama and the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. and delivered a moving musical tribute during Jesse Jackson's Lifetime Achievement Celebration. His unmistakable voice, humility, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to gospel music have established him as one of the genre's true living legends.

Now, after years away from the recording studio, Willie Rogers has chosen to return for one final historic chapter.

"Jeffery Moore is the only person who could bring me out of retirement," said Rogers. "I am so impressed with Jeffery's musical abilities, his vision, and his production. What we created together is truly special, and I knew I had to be a part of it. His songwriting and musical touch remind me of Sam Cooke."

Quietly, without fanfare, Rogers traveled to Savannah, Georgia, where he entered the recording studio with Soul Stirrers visionary Jeffery Moore. Together, they created two extraordinary original songs written and produced exclusively by Moore for the legendary vocalist. Both men believe these recordings will become another memorable chapter in the remarkable history of the World Famous Soul Stirrers.

According to Moore, there was never another voice considered for these songs.

"From the moment these songs were written, I could hear only Willie Rogers singing them," Moore said. "No one else could bring these songs to life except the living legend himself. It has been one of the greatest honors of my career to work beside this giant of gospel music. Together, we have created history while honoring the incredible legacy of the World Famous Soul Stirrers."

Moore continued:

"This is not simply a reunion. This is history. God has allowed us to bring together generations of gospel music to honor one of its greatest living legends. We are celebrating one hundred years of the World Famous Soul Stirrers while creating music that I believe will bless generations to come. Willie Rogers has given so much to gospel music, and now it is our privilege to honor him while he can enjoy the flowers he so richly deserve."

As part of the Soul Stirrers Centennial Celebration—100 Years Strong, the organization will present Mr. Willie Rogers with its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Honor throughout The Soul Stirrers Centennial Tour Honoring a Legend: Mr. Willie Rogers, recognizing his lifetime of musical excellence, unwavering dedication to gospel music, and immeasurable contributions to one of the most influential groups in American music history.

Joining Jeffery Moore in welcoming Rogers home is his wife and business partner, Stellar Award-winning recording artist, prolific author, singer-songwriter, and media executive Kim Ruff Moore, co-founder of Ruff Moore Media.

"Willie Rogers is family," said Kim Ruff Moore. "To welcome him home during this historic Centennial Celebration is truly a blessing. His legacy has inspired generations of gospel artists, and we are honored that he has entrusted Jeffery with this incredible new chapter in his legendary career. We look forward to celebrating this remarkable man in cities across America as we honor his legacy and introduce this incredible new music."

This historic reunion officially launches The Soul Stirrers Centennial Tour Honoring a Legend: Mr. Willie Rogers, celebrating one hundred years of the World Famous Soul Stirrers while introducing powerful new original music that honors the past, celebrates the present, and inspires the future.

The Centennial Tour is currently scheduled to include:

• Chicago, Illinois

• Nashville, Tennessee

• Atlanta, Georgia

• Additional cities to be announced

Each city will host unforgettable celebrations featuring tributes to Willie Rogers, the rich history of the World Famous Soul Stirrers, Lifetime Achievement presentations, special guest appearances, the premiere of brand-new original music, and memorable events honoring a century of gospel excellence.

Jeffery Moore's vision for the Soul Stirrers Centennial is simple yet profound: to preserve the legacy of the pioneers while introducing timeless gospel music to a new generation. With the return of Willie Rogers, that vision has become a historic reality.

For Moore, this is far more than a reunion—it is the passing of the torch, the preservation of a priceless musical heritage, and the beginning of an exciting new chapter for one of gospel music's most iconic names.

THE WORLD FAMOUS SOUL STIRRERS — 100 YEARS STRONG

Honoring a Living Legend.

New Original Music.

The Soul Stirrers Centennial Tour Honoring a Legend: Mr. Willie Rogers.

The Legacy Continues.

For tour dates, media credentials, sponsorship opportunities, and additional press information, visit:

Media Contact & Bookings
Ruff Moore Media
912 278 8010
 

The Legendary Mr. Willie Rogers and Jeffery Moore on the day of recording! New Music coming!!

History of the Soul  Stirrers with a young Sam Cooke 

The iconic 1951 recording “Jesus Gave Me Water” by The Soul Stirrers is the featured work inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame Class of 2026. The recording is widely recognized for its profound influence on gospel music and for helping pave the way for the evolution of modern soul and R&B.

The original album imagery reflects the early foundation of the group, which was established in Texas around 1926 by founding member R.H. Harris and the early Soul Stirrers lineage. This era represents the deep spiritual roots and vocal tradition that defined the group’s signature sound.

In 1950, a young Sam Cooke joined The Soul Stirrers at just 19 years old, quickly rising to prominence as a lead vocalist. While his innovative vocal style initially sparked debate among traditional gospel audiences, he ultimately became one of the most influential and beloved voices in the group’s history, helping bridge gospel music with the emerging soul era.

As Jeffery Moore notes, “Jesus Gave Me Water” stands as one of the most important recordings in gospel history—an enduring work that continues to inspire generations and define the foundation of the Soul Stirrers’ legacy.”

Early Years(Most Notable Members and other followed)

The Soul Stirrers comprised of:

Silas Roy Crain (b. 1911, Augustine, Texas, U.S.A., d. 14th September 1996, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.) Group formed 1926

Jesse J. Farley (b. 1915, Pennington, Texas, U.S.A. d. 11th October 1988, South Chicago Community Hospital, Chicago, Illinois, U.S

Thomas L. Bruster

and

Paul Foster (b. 12th July 1920, Shreveport, Los Angeles, U.S.A. d. 20th August 1995, Vallejo, California, U.S.A.)

later

Sam Cooke (b. Samuel Cook, a.k.a. Dale Cooke, 22nd January 1931, Clarksdale, Mississippi, U.S.A. d. 11th December 1964, the Hacienda Motel, 9137 South Figueroa, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.)

Lou Rawls (b. Louis Allen Rawls, 1st December 1933, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A. d. 6th January 2006, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, U.S.A.)

Johnnie Taylor (b. Johnnie Harrison Taylor, 5th May 1937, Crawfordsville, Arkansas, U.S.A. d. 31st May 2000, Charleton Methodist Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, U.S.A.)

The Soul Stirrers’ Legacy Honored in the Grammy Hall of Fame

The legendary The Soul Stirrers have been honored through the induction of their historic 1951 recording “Jesus Gave Me Water” into the Grammy Hall of Fame Class of 2026.

This timeless recording, featuring early contributions from Sam Cooke, stands as one of the most influential works in gospel music history and a foundational influence on the development of soul music.

The continued legacy of The Soul Stirrers is preserved and carried forward under the visionary stewardship of Jeffery Moore, whose leadership has helped ensure the group’s historic catalog, cultural impact, and musical heritage remain active, visible, and honored for future generations.

Today, this recognition celebrates not only a historic recording—but the enduring legacy of a sound that continues to inspire across generations.

The Soul Stirrers are a world-renowned gospel group whose legacy has helped shape the very foundation of gospel music. With a history spanning generations, they are celebrated for their rich harmonies, powerful vocals, and timeless message of faith, hope, and inspiration.

Known as the Gentlemen of Gospel, The Soul Stirrers have graced prestigious stages, reached national audiences, and continue to captivate listeners with music that transcends eras. As they approach their historic 100-year celebration, their influence remains as strong as ever—bridging the past, present, and future of gospel music with excellence and authenticity.

“Jeffery Moore — Visionary Architect of the Soul Stirrers’ Reunion and Their Unparalleled Return to Excellence.”

 Legacy Revival, Production Leadership & Centennial Continuation

In 2024, Jeffery Moore, visionary steward of the Soul Stirrers’ legacy revival and a seasoned music organizer with more than 30 years of experience in group development and vocal ensemble leadership, transitioned into a central creative and executive role in the group’s continued evolution.

Organizing and structuring musical groups has long been a natural strength for Moore. His background includes extensive experience in audition coordination, vocal arrangement, and ensemble development within gospel music environments. This foundation played a key role in shaping the direction of the Soul Stirrers’ modern revival.

Earlier in his career, Moore was actively involved in the audition process for potential future members of The Soul Stirrers in 2007 and 2008, working alongside candidates under the tutelage and artistic direction of Arthur Crume, helping evaluate and prepare vocal talent aligned with the group’s historic standard.

During this period, Moore also produced in 2007 Soul Stirrers Reunion Album, developed under the direction of Arthur Crume and released through Malaco Records. The project later saw additional production development and changes by Malaco Records, which incorporated veteran gospel singers and a different sound. 

Building on this foundation of experience, Moore later took a hands-on role in the modern revival of the group. He selected and organized the material for the new recording project, assigning each song to carefully chosen vocalists to ensure both balance and authenticity in the group’s sound.

Serving as arranger and producer, Moore structured the recording process with precision and efficiency, designing the session workflow so that the core studio recording could be completed within a focused three-hour session.

On recording day, members of The Soul Stirrers traveled from multiple locations to participate in the session, marking a significant moment of reunion and renewed creative collaboration. This effort resulted in the release of Jesus Be a Fence, Volume 1, a project that has received positive reception for its traditional grounding and contemporary execution.

The momentum continued with the Centennial EP, where Moore expanded his creative role further by stepping forward as a lead vocalist on the original composition “God’s Been Good.” His performance introduced a new dimension to the project while maintaining its deep gospel foundation.

Looking ahead, Moore is expected to continue expanding both his creative and leadership presence within the project, contributing original material and further shaping the evolving sound and direction of The Soul Stirrers’ next era.

This ongoing chapter represents not only a revival, but a structured continuation of a historic gospel legacy—bridging past excellence with present leadership and future expansion.

 Jesus be  a Fence Volume 1 Studio Album available now on all digital streams worldwide itunes, apple, spotify  All music produced and arranged  by Jeffery Moore 

Their debut release, Jesus Be a Fence, Volume 1, has already garnered national acclaim:

• Joe Riley, Florida Gospel Radio Show – Highlighting Quartet:
  “You were able to keep the sound.”

• Sherard, The Sherard Show (Hollywood):
  “I listened to the album and you were able to keep the integrity of the sound. How did you do that?”

• Sis. Willie McClendon, WNOO Radio – Chattanooga, TN:
  “‘Lord Remember Me’ is amazing! I love this project.”

• Bob Marovich, The Journal of Gospel Music:
  “You maintained the legacy.”

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION HIGHLIGHTS

The 100 Years of Gospel Celebration officially kicks off January 1, 2026, with year-long events honoring the group’s unparalleled contribution to gospel music.

Highlights include:

A live kickoff performance in Hollywood, California on the renowned Sherard Show, known for hosting Hollywood A-listers

The Soul Stirrers pose with a fan at the 98th Oscars Viewing Gala after their amazing performance. 

The Soul Stirrers and their lovely wives at the 98th Oscars viewing Gala red carpet. The Soul Stirrers made history in Hollywood California performing March 15, 2026

The New Centennial Album titled 

"One Hundred Years" is available now! The official digital album will be released soon!  Please scan below for a secured check out. Thank you so much for supporting our historical movement.  

Below please use the "scan to pay" to make a donation  and or complete your sponsorship transaction securely.  Please enter the amount you would like to donate. We appreciate your support of our 5 City Tour and Celebration for this amazing historical event. Many blessings and please continue to pray for the World famous Soul Stirrers. 

Our Upcoming Events! Please join us 

Our Group Members! 

Please be sure to purchase our latest album recently released below! You will surely enjoy it and be blessed. 

If you would like for the Soul Stirrers to appear at your event, please contact Jeffery our Manager and Producer at the phone number below. We would love to see you!