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Samuel GaryMost Aikenites learned of Samuel Gary and his magnificent voice when he delivered his stirring rendition of “Let My People Go” at the hynn festival that opened Aiken’sSesquicentennial celebration last year.But persons throughout the world — and in churches in Aiken and nearby counties — already had heard his strongbass voice.Mr. Gary was born at Bainbridge, Ga., but grew up in Orlando, Fla. He was in high school when his fine talent was discovered, and he went to Florida Normal College on a voice scholarship. He then went to New York and studied under several teachers, including Leonard DePaur.In 1938, he with joined Josh White, a pioneer black guitarist and folk singer who was a native of Greenville, and others in a musical group called “The South Carolinians.’ TheSouth Carolinians achieved fame when they appeared with Paul Robeson in the Broadway production of the all-black musical, “John Henry,” with White as a co-star withRobeson.In 1940 Mr. Gary teamed with Josh White for a concert tour, and for 25 years the two musicians were paired together for frequent concert tours that took them to many parts ofthe world.Mr. Gary also made several movie sound tracks, including one for the movie “Lost Lagoon.” He was widely known in musical circles in New York and was considered by Oscar Brand, curator of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, to be themost famous basso prof undo in America.In the 1960s he came to Aiken to be near his wife’s people. A soloist with the senior choir at Thankful Grove Missionary Baptist Church, he appeared as a guest soloist at manychurches throughout the area.He also worked at several local industries and enjoyed the role of gentleman farmer. He loved children and animals, and was known to keep dogs, cats, hamsters and rabbits inhis menagerie at various times.A tragic fire at his home in the Talatha Community offSilver Bluff Road claimed the life of Mr. Gary last Sunday. He was 68.His New York friends thought it was ironic that his death resulted from a kitchen accident, since Mr. Gary during his early years was trained as a chef, and cooking was hisprincipal hobby.Coile Scarborough, minister of music at the First Baptist Church ill Aiken where the Sesquicentennial hymn festival was held, paid tribute to Mr. Gary’s talents, calling him a“most inspiring singer.”He will be greatly missed, and Aikenites are fortunate thathe chose this county for his home. We extend our sincere sympathies to his family.
Newspaper Details
Aiken Standard
Aiken, South Carolina, US
Fri, Jul 25, 1986
Page 4
Full Page
Clipped by
Guest G.
AU 12 Dec 2022
Other Publications Near Aiken, South Carolina
Aiken Daily Mail
Aiken County Rambler
Aiken County Register
Aiken County Journal
Aiken Standard
