Southern Gospel Music (SGM) has long held a cherished place in Canadian Christian culture. While deeply influenced by the vibrant traditions from the United States, Canadian Southern Gospel developed its own unique style and repertoire that reflected the heart and spirit of the communities north of the 49th parallel.
One of the early figures in promoting Southern Gospel Music in Canada was Harold Lossing from Toronto. Lossing helped organize concerts that brought gospel quartets to Canadian audiences, including one of the earliest documented visits by the Blackwood Brothers in 1949. He was known for holding “All Night Sings” at Massey Hall in downtown Toronto, a historic venue that remains a National Historic Site. These events featured groups such as The Couriers, The Oak Ridge Boys, The LeFevres, The Speers, The Weatherfords, and many others. While these concerts were significant, it’s important to recognize that promoting gospel music in those days came with many challenges, and not everything was smooth or universally successful. I never personally attended those concerts, but from family and friends’ stories, it’s clear these events left a lasting impression on the local gospel music community.
Beyond American influences, Canada had a thriving gospel scene with local artists traveling across the country to minister and perform. Touring in those early days was far from glamorous. Many groups were billeted with local families when overnight stays were necessary, as hotels were not always available or affordable. Being “North of the 49” came with its own set of challenges — from blizzards and ice storms to navigating backcountry roads to reach small country churches. Yet, despite these obstacles, musicians brought drums, guitars, and sometimes
keyboards to their concerts, long before prerecorded tracks were used. The Spirit moved strongly through altar calls and heartfelt ministry, often filling Sunday evenings with vibrant gospel music services alongside the traditional Sunday mornings. Today, churches tend to have more varied programming, but back then, gospel music nights were a cherished staple.
In turn, several Canadian artists have had the privilege of gracing many prominent platforms in the United States, including the National Quartet Convention, the Grand Ole Opry, numerous music festivals, and countless churches across the nation.
Radio also played a vital role in spreading gospel music across Canada, especially during the 1970s and 1980s. During that period, Canadian radio stations were eager to feature Canadian content, making gospel music programs a natural fit for their lineups. I recall my good friend Mike Moran, a founding member of the Torchmen, telling me about his decade-long experience hosting a gospel music radio show—an incredible way to share the gospel message far and wide.
The 1970s were a particularly vibrant period for Southern Gospel Music promotion in Canada. At one point, there were as many as 15 or 16 promoters just in Ontario alone—a province roughly one and a half times the size of Texas with a population then around eight million. These promoters were driven by a deep passion to bring gospel music to churches and concert halls, and their dedication was met with enthusiastic audiences. I have had the privilege of knowing some of these promoters personally, and their zeal was truly inspiring. Another pioneer from this era was Cam Shillington, who formed the group The Masters and in 1976 launched a weekly television program in Kingston. Cam and The Masters went on to host a syndicated show on the Global network called Gospel Singin’ Time, which won a notable award in the television industry. Beyond television, Shillington also promoted numerous concerts featuring both American and Canadian groups, further cementing his impact on the growth of Southern Gospel in Canada.
A fascinating historic milestone is that The Cathedral Quartet’s very first appearance outside of their home venue, The Cathedral of Tomorrow, took place in St. Catharines, Ontario. As a country, Canada has been honored to be part of the Cathedral Quartet’s incredible history.
Many groups continue to perform after more than 50 years on the road. In Ontario, groups such as The Chapelaires, The Torchmen, The Proverbs, The Watchmen, and The Viscounts have kept the tradition alive. In Western Canada, groups like The Singing Hills, The Daae Family, the Glencross Quartet, and Canada’s Double Portion have performed for decades. Their longevity is a testament to their commitment and the ongoing desire to spread the gospel through song across this vast country.
The formal organization of Canadian Christian music took a big step forward in 1974 with the founding of the Canadian Gospel Music Association (CGMA), which later became GMA Canada. While GMA Canada encompasses all genres of Christian music beyond just Southern Gospel, it has been instrumental in recognizing outstanding achievements through its annual Covenant Awards and honoring lifetime contributions via its Hall of Fame. This organization has helped elevate the profile of Canadian gospel artists on both national and international stages.
Reflecting on my own memories of weekend travels with The Jubilaires—the quartet my parents were a part of and that I later had the opportunity to sing with—I’m reminded of the warmth, hospitality, and spiritual impact that gospel music has had on countless lives, including my own. Staying in the homes of gracious hosts and witnessing lives transformed are experiences that define the very soul of Southern Gospel Music in Canada.
Today, new Southern Gospel groups continue to emerge, showing that the genre is not only alive but beloved across Canada. Being part of the team promoting SGM throughout Alberta and Saskatchewan has been a true privilege, and it is inspiring to witness the love for this music.
The history of Southern Gospel Music in Canada is a rich tapestry woven with passion, faith, and resilience. While this article touches on just a few key moments and figures, there is so much history that we’ve barely scratched the surface. This music has endured and evolved through decades of change, carried forward by dedicated artists, promoters, and fans alike. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to those who paved the way, and it is an honor to help carry this legacy into the future.
Special thanks to Mike Moran, Roxanne Flagler Smith, Sheila Jackson, Dave Daw and the Memoirs of Bill Griffin for sharing their stories, memories and pictures that bring this history to life.
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North of 49 | Christmas in The Country with The Chapelaires
North of 49 | The Amundruds
Passing The Mic | Casey Wolfe and The Next Generation of Southern Gospel
North of 49 | Faith Family Concerts – A New Chapter for Southern Gospel Music in Western Canada
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