Golden Eagle Gospel Singers

An Alabamian a cappella outfit that later developed roots in Chicago, The Golden Eagles were formed in the '30s by Thelma Byrd. On a level with The Golden Gate Quartet, their popularity was strongest in the Midwest. Unlike other groups of the time, who were usually male and Baptist, this one was coed and Sanctified. Much of their music had a fast-paced blues feel, most notably on 1937's "Tone the Bell" and 1940's "He's My Rock," which showcased Hammie Nixon on blues harmonica. They recorded for the Decca label.