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By Bob Marovich
JGM is saddened to report that Dr. Clarence “Mr. Gospel” Eggleton has died.
A Bay Area resident, Eggleton taught, sang, directed, played piano, and was a gifted composer of more than 500 songs recorded by some of the gospel industry’s top artists, including Rev. James Cleveland, Sara Jordan Powell, Wanda Nero Butler, and the Gospel Music Workshop of America Mass Choir. Among the songs he is known for are “Take Me to the Water” and “Blessed Be the Name.”
Eggleton directed the Sacramento Community Gospel Choir on two albums for Savoy, and was nominated for a Grammy. He studied music under Dr. Helen J.H. Stephens.
In addition, Eggleton traveled around the world, giving gospel music workshops. His accomplishments earned him the title “King of Gospel” in Sweden.
More information on homegoing services will be posted when available.
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Written by : Bob Marovich
Bob Marovich is a gospel music historian, author, and radio host. Founder of Journal of Gospel Music blog (formally The Black Gospel Blog) and producer of the Gospel Memories Radio Show.
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You mentioned that Dr. Eggleston was a pianist. He was also an accomplihed organist! I liked his arrangement of “Amazing Grace ” onthe Hammond. RIP, Dr. Clarence Eggleston!
Mr. Eggleton was my first piano teacher. He taught me many things and was always encouraging over the years when we say each. So I honor him in sharing what God gave him and instilled in me. RIH and we shall play together again one.
Tina Bryant
Thanks for your comments, everyone!
I was sorry to hear of his passing. He taught a piece called “Say Amen” at the Stockholm Gospel Choir Festival the year I went, and though I have his teaching tapes, I can’t find a recording of a single performance of that piece. Anybody know where I can find it?
While it’s true that Clarence was a Bay area resident at the time of his transition, however Clarence was, in so far as the capitol is concerned, from Sacramento. He set the tone for gospel music way back in the sixties when he was the organist for The Voices of Inspiration whom none other than the great Mahalia Jackson said that they were the best choir she ever heard