In 1999 southern gospel fans were faced with the disappointment of a legendary group's retirement. The Cathedrals were not only a great quartet, they were the among the ones who paved the way for all other quartets in this industry. They proved themselves through time and talent that Southern Gospel music was and is for ALL people, old and young alike. Just when hope was rising that a group might be able to take this music to another level, their retirement was announced, and fans all around the world felt as though we took a giant leap backwards. Who could possible fill the shoes of this legacy?
Somehow, this legacy could not just die in retirement. It must keep going. That's just what Roger Bennett and Scott Fowler had in their hearts as they made the decision to continue on, following in the footsteps of their heroes. They stood on the stage with legends for so many years, and if the legends couldn't go on, they would. Following the announcement of The Cathedral's retirement, Scott and Roger announced that they would be continuing the "legacy" that Glenn Payne and George Younce started so many years ago.
It's been 4 years since the beginning of this continued legacy. Roger and Scott found three extraordinary men to help them in following the footsteps of such a group as The Cathedrals. Tony Jarman, a native of North Carolina, sings the tenor. Coming from a singing family, Tony is no stranger to that tight harmony of southern gospel music. Glen Dustin came from Louisiana, having no experience singing full time. Glen spent his spare time with part time groups, until Roger and Scott discovered his talent and felt it needed to be shared. Having not much more experience than Glen, Scott Howard joined the group as baritone. Coming from Louisiana also, Scott is living a dream, traveling full time and in footsteps of legends.
The name Legacy Five fits this group well. "This being our 4th year, we find ourselves doing nothing but going uphill in a progressive climb," says Roger. First signing with Homeland Records and then later Cathedral records at their formation, and recently signing with Daywind Records, this group is moving nowhere but up. "We loved being with Cathedral Records, but we really felt time for a change and Daywind made a great offer." Much radio success has followed Legacy Five with such songs as "Strong in the Strength", "Heroes of the Faith", and many more. Currently, Legacy Five is recovering from a trip to London, England where they recorded with the Philharmonic Orchestra. They are the first southern gospel group to record with the Orchestra since the Cathedrals. "We are excited about this project," states Roger. "I wrote 4 songs as well as produced the project along with Scott and Daywind producer Wayne Haun." Look for a release date of February for this exciting project.
Legacy Five has seen it's share of battles, as well as blessings. Roger's cancer re-occured, but he does not let it get him down. "My spirit is great," Roger explains. "I've learned so much more about God. I've learned to simplify my life; my total outlook has changed." According to doctors, the cancer is acting slow and Roger has started Chemotherapy which will last until December 20th. Roger says, "God is sustaining me daily and I'm trusting His hand. As the song says, 'I'll Be Home for Christmas!' Keep me in your prayers."
This group is committed to the cause of Christ. Their hearts desire is to sing every southern gospel song in a way that others can say "I need to hear this". They are "strong in the strength" of a God who has shown Himself to be true in ALL aspects of life. You will find great faith and courage residing in this group, all traits of a legacy.
Visit Legacy Five online at [url=http://www.legacyfive.com]http://www.legacyfive.com[/url]
Author: Amy Marie Unthank
| Author's Website: http://southernspin.com
Written: 12/01/2002
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Category: Feature Articles
Comments: 8
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Legacy Five is a GREAT group! They truly desire to serve the Lord and sing songs that honour and glorify HIM. In my family's opinion, they are the best group out there!
I HOPE TO SEE ALL OF YOU WHEN YOU COME BACK TO TALLAHASSEE FL OR GA. I AM PRAYING FOR ALL OF YOU, I AM PRAYING FOR ROGER, THE LORD WILL GIVE HIM STRENGTH AND HEAL HIM. MAY GOD BLESS.
Legacy Five is the best!!! The first time we saw them in concert in March, 2000, we were especially blessed by them and touched by the message in each of their songs. That was an awesome night and one that sold us for life on this great group!!!
Great piece, Amy. L5 is just the best. I am praying for Roger, and look forward to celebrating the victory over this recurrance with him.
Do your research. Legacy Five actually signed with Homeland Records for their first project and then went to Cathedral Records. Nothing like promoting false information
Thank you so much for kindly pointing out our mistake. We truly appreciate it when fans take time to point out an easily corrected problem.
God's richest blessings on you Roger and Scott Fowler and the others as well. May God sustain you through your trial Roger. We're all praying for you.
I've been a fan of The Cathedrals for many years now and was saddened by the news of their retirement.When I heard that Scott and Roger were froming a new group I was very happy.After hearing Legacy Five's first album I knew the Southern Gospel field had been blessed with a new group.They are a very talented group of men that wants only to serve and praise the Lord.I hope and pray that God continues to bless them mightily in the future.I believe God has big plans for them.In the years to come I'm sure that they'll leave their own "legacy" on this industry just like the Cathedrals did.
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