The Dixie Hummingbirds are best known to younger and whiter audiences for their backing vocal's on Paul Simon's 1973 hit "Loves Me Like a Rock." They sometimes played secular venues and sang secular songs like this. They won a Grammy for their own recording of the song.
But they're a gospel group, and having always been about the church, they head right back to it. They apparently turned down quite a bit of money to tour with Simon in order to keep their scheduled commitments playing small churches.
Brother Davis retired in 1984, but the group continues. They celebrated their silver jubilee several years ago, and a modern lineup of the group is still performing.
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Article comments
1 - Rockin' Richard Radio
Sorry to hear about Mr. Davis passing at 90. The Dixie Hummingbirds with Ira Tucker on the lead will always be one of my favorite vocal groups. Although I play a variety of group harmony on my radio show, I do play the gospel quartettes a lot and the Dixie Hummingbirds are at the top of the list. Mr. Davis, you started something wonderful.
Yours, Rockin' Richard (Phillips)