African American Music Collection, University of Michigan School of Music, at http://www.umich.edu/~afroammu/standifer/dorsey.html . He also taught black children at a one-room schoolhouse where his son accompanied him and listened to lessons. He was born in Dayton, Ohio, the son of Charles D. and Norma Jean Moe (Ferguson) Dorsey. Actually . 20072023 Blackpast.org. Bright sunshine warmed spring gardners as they browsed through displays at the Spring Fling 2001, a lawn and landscape show at the Prince William. [25] Others took offense to such lively music overshadowing the minister's spoken word, or women delivering spiritual messages through song, taking the place of the preacher who was typically male. He promoted the gospel song through the formation of the National Association of Gospel Choirs and Choruses, serving as the organizations president. In loving memory of a wonderful person. Of his 1,000 musical works, at least 200 were gospel songs. A small donation would help us keep this available to all. Nonetheless, the young Dorsey made his living playing blues piano. But Dorsey didnt truly make his mark until he hooked up with another Georgian, guitarist Tampa Red. ), McLin became a composer, singer, and voice coach for, Numerous sources state Dorsey coined the term "gospel" to refer to sacred music, but W. M. Nix, the singer who inspired Dorsey at the 1921 National Baptist Convention, compiled a songbook titled, NCGCC annual meetings were also attended by members of the, Dorsey later stated that all the praise he received for this song never eclipsed his grief, saying, "None of it's ever been soothing to me, from that day to this day." He also toured extensively with Mahalia Jackson in the 1940s, who was by this time the preeminent gospel singer in the world. . . I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Tommy. Plot #24437553. Encountering more competition for jobs and with his concentration primarily on blues, Dorsey turned to composing, copyrighting his first song in 1920, titled "If You Don't Believe I'm Leaving, You Can Count the Days I'm Gone". We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. Thomas Andrew Dorsey was born in Villa Rica, a small rural town near Atlanta, Georgia. His net worth has been growing significantly in 2021-2022. Hampton, Hampton City County, Virginia 23669 . "[2], Aside from his prodigious songwriting, Dorsey's influence in the gospel blues movement brought about change both for individuals in the black community and communities as a whole. We all love you, Tommy! We know that Thomas A Dorsey had been residing in Hampton, Hampton City County, Virginia 23669. It's all the same talent. She was asked to sing it twice more; the response was so enthusiastic that Dorsey sold 4,000 print copies of his song. . Soon he began selling concessions there, and aspiring to join the theater band, honed his musical skills on his family's organ and a relative's piano, picking out melodies that he had heard and practicing long hours. He founded the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses in Chicago in 1933, serving as its president for 40 years. An unintended consequence of his sales strategy helped spread gospel blues, as he worked with numerous musicians who assisted in selling his sheet music traveling to churches in and around Chicago. Soon afterward, he discovered the young singer Mahalia Jackson, and was her accompanist throughout the 1930s and 1940s. Do you find this information helpful? Mr. Dorsey is survived by his second wife, Katherine, 73; his daughter; his son, Mickey; and four grandchildren. He then taught himself how to play barrelhouse piano and was often called "Barrelhouse Tommy," as he started working in dance halls, private parties, and gin palaces. He later combined jazz and blues with religious texts, giving birth to gospel music. Initially a . In the 1920s he toured with Ma Rainey and his own bands, often featuring the slide guitarist Tampa Red. Martin Luther King Jr. drew inspiration from this, his favorite song. [33][24], Notably, "Take My Hand, Precious Lord" was the favorite song of Martin Luther King Jr., who asked Dorsey to play it for him on the eve of his assassination. There he was impressed by the singing of W. M. Nix. Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions. He loved to brag about his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Born in rural Georgia, Dorsey grew up in a religious family but gained most of his musical experience playing blues at barrelhouses and parties in Atlanta. Since its debut it has been translated into 50 languages. Terry Dorsey, a popular fixture in Dallas-Fort Worth radio since 1981 . Give me a song, I stick to the note and play it like it is, you won't pay much attention to it. The three stanzas capture the grief not only of Dorsey, but also of any who have suffered significant loss. American Gospel musician Thomas A Dorsey singing in his living room in Chicago, Illinois in March 1983. | Photo: Getty Images. One person was stabbed in the chest, and the other had lacerations to the hands. Police and Dorsey's family denied there was any mystery surrounding his death Monday in the locked master bedroom of . Dorsey (1899-1993) was born in Georgia. thomas a dorsey cause of death. His father was a Baptist preacher, and his mother a piano teacher. ADVERTISEMENT BY ANCESTRY.COM . As the blues grew in popularity in the 1920s, black churches condemned it widely for being associated with sin and hedonism. He recorded extensively in the early 1930s, publishing his own sheet music and lyrics. "[27] However, once known, Dorsey could offer a "charming smile", according to Heilbut, and his enthusiasm "often lifts his voice to an irrepressible falsetto". [34] After writing to his sister that he was lonely and wanted to be around children, she sent Dorsey's niece Lena McLin to live with him. He remained in contact with his friends and fellow blues musicians, saying, "I'm not ashamed of my blues. His father, Thomas Madison, served . He was born a salesman. Fourth Sunday in Lent, Year A, Home Composer, arranger, pianist. That's a death toll that's higher than the next three causes combined. Foley's version has been entered into the National Recording Registry as a culturally significant recording worthy of preservation. Omissions? His reputation led him to become a music arranger for Paramount Records and the Chicago Music Publishing Company. Michael W. Harris, The Rise of Gospel Blues (New York: Oxford University Press, 1992); James Standifer, Interview with Thomas Dorsey, 1980. At eight he started writing his own music, and by 13, was playing piano in Atlanta, accompanying some of the famous jazz artists of the day. Partial Date Search. Beginning in 1932, he served as the churchs choir director for forty years. AmoMama creates engaging, meaningful content for women. At this time, Dorsey had adopted the stage name, Georgia Tom.. Jimmy Dorsey led his brother's band . God did use Thomas Dorsey and by obeying the voice of God and . After the death of Thomas A. Dorsey's first wife and son in childbirth, he composed one of the saddest gospel songs, "Precious Lord, Take My Hand." He eventually married the second love of his life, Kathryn, and composed a lovely song in her honor on their 17th anniversary. These can include Tarrant County death certificates, local and Texas State death registries, and the National Death Index. Aside from the lyrics, he saw no real distinction between blues and church music, and viewed songs as a supplement to spoken word preaching. Thomas A. Dorsey covered Sittin' on Top of the World, New Strangers Blues, You Can't Get That Stuff No More, Old Ship of Zion and other songs. He died Saturday. It was sung at the rally in Memphis the night before the civil-rights leader's assassination. His death was attributed to his mother's smoking. As a result, his sales pitches and chorus performances were not always well received. His father, Thomas Madison, served as a Baptist minister while his mom, Etta Plant worked as a church organist. Bennett, Tom, "OBITUARY: Thomas A Dorsey, 93, 'Father" of Gospel Music'", O'Neal, Jim, Van Singel, Amy: "Georgia Tom Dorsey" in. Death Year: 1993. Sacred music could not sustain him financially, however, so he continued to work in blues. After the death of a close friend, Dorsey was inspired to write his first religious song with a blues influence, "If You See My Savior, Tell Him That You Saw Me".[10][c]. Many churches sought prestige in their musical offerings, which were often ornate and sophisticated liturgical compositions by classical European composers, such as Handel's Messiah (1742) and Mozart's Alleluia (1773). Dorsey doubtless would have continued in this vein had he not fallen ill and, after the death of a neighbor, been moved to write his first religious song, If You See My Savior, Tell Him That You Saw Me. It was hardly an immediate success; it was three years before he sold even a single copy of the song, during which time he kept up his career in the blues. Sedated by sleeping pills following a heavy meal, Dorsey accidentally choked to death at the age of 51 on 26 November 1956. Known as the "Father of Gospel Music," the Georgia native was born on July 1 st, 1899.. Thomas Andrew Dorsey was born in the town of Villa Rica to a minister father and piano teacher mother, who taught him the instrument. Thomas A. Dorsey Sr., age 70, passed away on Sunday October 16, 2022, in Sebring Florida. He retired from Pilgrim Baptist Church and the NCGCC soon after, though he continued to participate and perform when he was able. Throughout his early years he felt torn between the sacred and the secular. In 1916 he moved to Chicago, where he attended the College of Composition and Arranging. Thomas A. Dorsey Net Worth. Villa Rica's rural location allowed Dorsey to hear slave spirituals, and "moaning" a style of singing marked by elongated notes and embellishments widespread among Southern black people alongside the Protestant hymns his father favored. His first attempts to combine the two styles, which he called the gospel song, were met with resistance, however, because of their heavy blues influence. [28] Ministers who would not have considered changing their music programs just a few years before became more open to new ideas. You got to always have something: a little trick, a little embellishment or something. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. . As formulated by Dorsey, gospel music combines Christian praise with the . He gave the song to Frye who introduced it to the choir at Atlanta's Ebenezer Baptist Church the next Sunday, an event that, Dorsey later remarked, "tore up the church." "Precious Lord" was written in Chicago in 1932 following the death of Thomas Dorsey's wife Nettie and infant son during childbirth. His songs continue to be performed to this day--not for nothing did Mahalia Jackson describe him as our Irving Berlin"--and the style he pioneered influenced everyone from James Cleveland to Aretha Franklin to Edwin Hawkins to the Winans. History of Hymns: "Precious Lord, Take My Hand", "Precious Lord, Take My Hand" As . To obtain an actual death certificate (and not just the index) for persons dying in Los Angeles County after July 1, 1905, contact the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk, 12400 E. Imperial Hwy, Norwalk, CA 90650. Thomas Andrew Dorsey was born in Villa Rica, Georgia, on 1 July 1899. Thomas A. Dorsey Sr., age 70, passed away on Sunday October 16, 2022, in Sebring Florida. 102. In 1933, Dorsey directed a 600-person chorus at the second meeting of the NCGCC, now boasting 3,500 members in 24 states. His death was ruled to have been caused by an accidental choking which occurred when he threw up while sleeping. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices here. Also preceding Thomas is death are his brothers, James and Robert Dorsey, and one sister Norma Jean Dorsey. Last Known Residence . "Thomas Dorsey, Father of Gospel Music, Dies at 93". He was preceded in death by his parents. He is from USA. [8], Dorsey worked with Rainey and her band for two years, wherein he composed and arranged her music in the blues style he was accustomed to, as well as vaudeville and jazz to please audiences' tastes. Thomas Francis Dorsey Jr. (November 19, 1905 - November 26, 1956) was an American jazz trombonist, composer, conductor and bandleader of the big band era. View Entry. Mahalia Jackson sang at his funeral when King did not get to hear it. Thomas A. Dorsey, widely considered as "The Father of Black Gospel Music," was born in Villa Rica, Georgia in 1899. ex. Chicago ' s Blues Syncopator. "Precious Lord" has been recorded by many famous singers including Elvis Presley, Mahalia Jackson, Roy Rogers, and Tennessee Ernie Ford. [4], Seeking a greater challenge, Dorsey relocated to Chicago in 1919, where he learned that his style of playing was unfashionable compared to the newer uptempo styles of jazz. He is survived by his loving wife, Susan; sons, Tommy Dorsey Jr. (Cheri); Travis Dorsey (Dana); daughters, Emily Fryman; Leigh-Ann Sparks (Dave); brother, Jim Dorsey (Ruth); sisters, Denise Dorsey; Delores Harden (Tim Heinlein); Danna Hay (Michael); Donna Franks (John); Surviving are also seven grandchildren, Jared Dorsey (Stephanie); Evan Dorsey; Keegan Dorsey (Kailee); Haley Stunich; Travis Dorsey Jr.; Briana Clark; and C.J. I am so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. '"[27], When he gave interviews later in his life, he never condemned blues music or his experiences in that period. [9], Rainey enjoyed enormous popularity touring with a hectic schedule, but beginning in 1926 Dorsey was plagued by a two-year period of deep depression, even contemplating suicide. Induction Year: 1979. [5], Dorsey seemed ambivalent about writing church music until 1921 when he was inspired by W. M. Nix's rendition of "I Do, Don't You? It would hardly be an exaggeration to say that gospel music would not exist as we know it today were it not for Thomas A. Dorsey. From 1932 Dorsey was choral director of the Pilgrim Baptist Church in Chicago. Dorsey also recorded under the names George Ramsey, Memphis Jim, Memphis Mose, Railroad Bill, Smokehouse Charley, Texas Tommy, and others. On Saturday evening around 8 PM officers responded to the area of 121 E. Washington Street for two people who had been stabbed. Lornell, Kip, "Dorsey, Thomas (18991993) Blues and Gospel Musician and Composer". Handy for inspiring a flock of lowdown, dirty blues.. Dorsey found appeal in the freedom and potential that came with improvising within established hymns, allowing singers and musicians to infuse more emotion particularly joy and elation into their performances to move congregations. The adjustment for the entire family was difficult, culminating in Thomas being isolated, held back at school, and eventually dropping out after the fourth grade when he was twelve years old. Recordings of these sold millions of copies in both gospel and secular markets in the 20th century.[1]. The grave site of Thomas A Dorsey. Forego a bottle of soda and donate its cost to us for the information you just learned, and feel good about helping to make it available to everyone. The son of a Baptist minister, he grew up on the hymns of Isaac Watts and counted hearing Homer Rodeheaver at a Billy Sunday revival in Atlanta as one of the most memorable experiences of his youth. Lyrically, according to Boyer, Dorsey was "skilled at writing songs that not only captured the hopes, fears, and aspirations of the poor and disenfranchised African Americans but also spoke to all people". Thomas A. Dorsey's income source is mostly from being a successful Soundtrack. The traveler cries out, and once again reaches for the hand of Christ. *. Thomas A. Dorsey Death: and Cause of Death. In fact it won't go anywhere. Between 1924 and 1928, he served as a backup dancer for Ma Rainey during her touring shows and simultaneously, he acted as a leader for his own music group, Wildcats Jazz Band., Thomas A. Dorsey poses for a portrait circa 1960 in Chicago, Illinois. 11:03 PM on Mar 8, 2015 CDT. Thereafter, though he continued writing, he concentrated on lecturing and administrative duties. Rainey was a shrewd entrepreneurbut . History of Hymns: 'Spirit of the Living God'. Despite being meagerly compensated, he played rent parties, house parties, barrelhouses, and brothels, but enjoyed the social life of a musician. A celebration of life will be held at the Miami Valley Sports Bar, 930 Watertower Lane, West Carrollton OH 45449 on Saturday, October 29, 2022, 1:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. [10][12], Dorsey tried to market his new sacred music by printing thousands of copies of his songs to sell directly to churches and publishers, even going door to door, but he was ultimately unsuccessful. Updates? The manager of a gospel quartet active in the 1930s stated that songs written by Dorsey and other songwriters copying him spread so far in such a short time that they were called "dorseys". Some objected to the degradation of worship through blues shouting. He recalled visiting Damascus, Syria, where he was approached in a bathroom by a man who recognized his name. Browse 65 thomas a. dorsey stock photos and images available, or start a new search to explore more stock photos and images. It said that he was the father of gospel music; that he had written . Here are 10 you cant miss, Review: A reimagined Secret Garden fails to flower anew at the Ahmanson Theatre, Moroccan singer convicted of rape in Paris, gets 6-year term, Jonas Brothers promise Broadway residency will be a walk down musics memory lane, Toxic sex, social anxiety, 90s guitars: How L.A.s Blondshell pulled off the rock debut of 2023, Rihanna making the FCC work, work, work, after Super Bowl viewers file 103 complaints, Brad Paisley drops new song featuring President Zelensky to mark one year of Ukraine war. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Thomas-Andrew-Dorsey, Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame - Biography of Thomas A. Dorsey, Songwriters Hall of Fame - Biography of Thomas A. Dorsey, Thomas A. Dorsey - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up). Thomas A. Dorsey performing at Bible Way "This Far by Faith, Hour Three." Furthermore, when Thomas' father traveled to preach at other churches, Thomas and his mother attended a church that practiced shape note singing; their harmonizing in particular making a deep impression on him. Upon hearing Nix sing, Dorsey was overcome, later recalling that his "heart was inspired to become a great singer and worker in the Kingdom of the Lordand impress people just as this great singer did that Sunday morning". He was a staple in the West Carrollton community, served as class President for the alumni association and a former member of the Blue Knights Chapter 3. [53][54] Though he never returned to his hometown, efforts to honor Dorsey in Villa Rica, Georgia, began a week after his death. We believe that every person's story is important as it provides our community with an opportunity to feel a sense of belonging, share their hopes and dreams. [32][33] Never considering himself a strong singer, Dorsey recorded gospel music sporadically up to 1934, and two songs in 1953 were his last, though he continued to write. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors. Thomas Andrew Dorsey (July 1, 1899 - January 23, 1993) was known as "the father of black gospel music" and was at one time so closely associated with the field that songs written in the new style were sometimes known as "dorseys." [2] Earlier in his life he was a leading blues pianist known as Georgia Tom. But they just didnt understand.. Extended family, Amber McDermott (Kalani), Simon and Loxley. Dorsey and Ebenezer's music director Theodore Frye trained the new chorus to deliver his songs with a gospel blues sound: lively, joyous theatrical performances with embellished and elongated notes accentuated with rhythmic clapping and shouts. Born on July 1, 1899, Dorsey started his music career at the age of 5 when he began singing in local church choirs. Dorsey was briefly a student of Morehouse College but after he began working with jazz bands, he moved to Chicago in 1916. Sources. This is one of the most long-lasting and widely used choruses in Christian worship. | Photo: Getty Images. He was 100% Mr. West Carrollton and surely November 02, 2022 | Kingsport, TN | Classmate. He is a truly mesmerizing figure, the stuff of which legends are made. He returned to blues, recording "It's Tight Like That" with guitarist Hudson "Tampa Red" Whittaker despite his misgivings over the suggestive lyrics. In doing so, he became one of the first musicians to copyright blues music. Discipleship Ministries is a work from home community. An organization that Tom was passionate about. He started serving as the Choral Director of the Pilgrim Baptist Church, where he created the United States first gospel choir. Atlanta ' s " Barrel House Tom ". Milton, Santa Rosa County, Florida . For his endless contributions to the gospel music industry, Thomas Dorsey will never be forgotten and, Johnny Cash Did Not Say I Love You to June Carter for Years - She Declined His First Proposals, Billy Joel Is Happily Married to 4th Wife Who Is 33 Years His Junior & the Mom of His Youngest Kids, Meet 'Law & Order's' Jerry Orbach's Son Chris Who Looks Like His Late Star Dad & Is Father of Two, Ronnie Milsaps Heart Was Shattered Twice in Recent Years as He Lost His Wife & Son for Different Reasons, Billy Ocean Turned 72 Recently - Meet His Wife Judy Who He Has Been Married to for 43 Years, Tamara Tunie Once Revealed the Key to Her Blissful 2nd Marriage 3 Years Later It Fell Apart, Bruno Mars Had to Live In a Zoo After Parents Divorce He Slept in 1 Bed With His Dad & Brother, Steven Curtis Chapman Defied Wife's Wishes by Adopting Daughter Who Was Killed by His Son's Car 5 Years Later, Naomi Judd's Heart Was 'Ripped Out and Stomped on by Men' Inside Her Marriages, Inside Billy Graham's $599K Home That His Daughter Was Forced to Sell to Save Her Kid from a Rare Disease, Loretta Lynn Fought for Her Beloved Husband Though He Called Other Women into Their Bed, Who Was Vangelis? He infused joy and optimism in his written music as he directed his choirs to do perform with uplifting fervor as they sang. This freed the choir members' hands to clap, and he knew anyway that most of the chorus singers in the early 1930s were unable to read music. He gave so much to so many over the years and was such a presence with the class of 1970. [27], During his blues period, Dorsey presented himself as dapper and dignified, which carried over into his gospel work. [24] He found resistance among ministers, musicians, and parishioners alike. He was known as the "Sentimental Gentleman of Swing" because of his smooth-toned trombone playing. Many hymns are conceived in the throes of tragedy. Due to the spontaneous nature of the events Dorsey worked, he became proficient at improvising, and along the way, learned to read musical notation. And if thats not good cause for a hallelujah, its hard to imagine what would be. [13][14][d], Unsure if gospel music could sustain him, Dorsey was nonetheless pleased to discover that he made an impression at the National Baptist Convention in 1930 when, unknown to him, Willie Mae Ford Smith sang "If You See My Savior" during a morning meeting. Obliging, Dorsey began, but the multinational group took over: "And they knew it in Damascus, too. In 2019, Tom retired happily to Sebring, Florida. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails. Death Records Search. Popular bandleader. Heres a look into the late legend's life. | Photo: Getty Images. Thomas Andrew Dorsey, (born July 1, 1899, Villa Rica, Ga., U.S.died Jan. 23, 1993, Chicago, Ill.), American songwriter, singer, and pianist whose many up-tempo blues arrangements of gospel music hymns earned him the title of "Father of Gospel Music." Dorsey was the son of a revivalist preacher. Thomas A. Dorsey originally did Sittin' on Top of the World, No Matter How She Done It, New Strangers Blues, Maybe It's the Blues and other songs. History of Hymns: 'When Christmas Morn is Dawning'. Courtesy of Hogan Jazz Archive, Tulane University, African American History: Research Guides & Websites, Global African History: Research Guides & Websites, African American Scientists and Technicians of the Manhattan Project, Envoys, Diplomatic Ministers, & Ambassadors, Education - Historically Black Colleges (HBCU), http://www.umich.edu/~afroammu/standifer/dorsey.html, Foundation, Organization, and Corporate Supporters. He was born in South Boston, MA, grew up and was educated in Belmont, MA. Tommy was the very best alumni president we ever had. My sincere condolences to the family. Instead, he fused the two, applying inspirational lyrics to the melodic and rhythmic ideas that powered the likes of Its Tight Like That., It wasnt a conscious decision, and it scandalized many God-fearing Baptists at the time. and died after 2 days. Through the storm, through the night, lead me on to the light: Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home. Please confirm that you want to receive email from us. UPI The Georgia Tech product announced his retirement in June, after playing 11 games with the Jets in 2019 (with 10 starts). "[b] after hearing him perform at the National Baptist Convention. Then it's just a matter of time until your document arrives. Like most obituaries, the death notice for Thomas A. Dorsey offered a lot of facts but told little of the life behind them. This service only issues certified copies of microfilmed death certificates for deaths that occurred in Louisiana between 1911-1971. Paul Moseley Star-Telegram/DFW.com. The incipit or opening line of stanza one, "Precious Lord, take my hand. Love you! Fisk University houses his archives as well as those of noted musicians W.C. Hagerstown, Md. Touring with singer Sallie Martin, Dorsey brought new hope to millions of black churchgoers, packing churches and filling collection baskets even during the darkest days of the Depression. Dorsey was the son of a Baptist preacher; his mother was the church organist. My soul was a deluge of divine rapture; my emotions were aroused; my heart was inspired to become a great . AKA Thomas Francis Dorsey. As Dorsey related in The Rise of Gospel Blues: "My inner-being was thrilled. Jill & Mark can give you my number. Martin Luther King, Sr. was the pastor of Ebenezer at this time, beginning his ministry there in 1931. He is often quoted saying that he had "been kicked out of the best churches in the country". [3][a], Religion and music were at the center of the Dorseys' lives, and young Thomas was exposed to a variety of musical styles in his early childhood. For the big band trombonist and bandleader, see, Thomas Dorsey during his "Georgia Tom" blues period, late 1920s, Accounts of how many children the Dorseys had depend on the source. When the pastor at Pilgrim Baptist, Chicago's second largest black church, saw the way it moved the congregation, he hired Dorsey as music director, allowing him to dedicate all his time to gospel music. Death . It said that he was the father of gospel music; that he had written . . The outcome of this is unknown other than the clinic stating they would no longer serve black patients. The night Rainey opened at Chicago's largest black theater Dorsey is remembered as "the most exciting moment in my life". [36] In Living Blues, Jim O'Neal compares Dorsey in gospel to W. C. Handy, who was the first and most influential blues composer, "with the notable difference that Dorsey developed his tradition from within, rather than 'discovering' it from an outsider's vantage point". While working in a local circus at The 81 theater in Atlanta, Dorsey became influenced by the famous musicians who played there most especially the pianists. Thomas Dorsey was born July 1, 1899, just outside Atlanta. [52] Four years later, Aretha Franklin sang it at Jackson's funeral. Demaryius Thomas during the Broncos' Super Bowl loss to the Seahawks. The record sold more than seven million copies. Dozens of his optimistic and sentimental songs became gospel standards, notably Precious Lord, Take My Hand (1932). Worship Planning | Photo: Getty Images, In 1928, Dorsey collaborated with popular music act, Tampa Red and together they produced the song, Its Tight Like That which sold over seven million copies. Neither did his music appeal only to the black community. Alan Jay Lerner. . Tommy Dorsey, byname of Thomas Francis Dorsey, Jr., (born November 19, 1905, Mahanoy Plane, Pennsylvania, U.S.died November 26, 1956, Greenwich, Connecticut), American musician whoboth independently and with his brother Jimmyled several of the most popular big bands of the swing era. Dorsey put together the "Wild Cats Jazz Band" to play for Ma Rainey in 1925. Several times I have been thrown out of some of the best churches, Dorsey remembered in a 1980 interview. Gypsy Rose Lee. Upon singing, "at the river I stand," the singer reaches at last the final destination, the symbolic Jordan River. Because as much as Dorseys life testified to the power of faith and the promise of salvation, it also seemed to prove that the real difference between the devils music and the Lords is not a matter of notes, but of inspiration. A 600-person chorus at the age of 51 on 26 November 1956 from this, his sales pitches chorus... My life '' death certificates, local and Texas State death registries and... Second wife, Katherine, 73 ; his mother was the father of gospel music ; that he written. As those of noted musicians W.C. Hagerstown, Md thomas a dorsey cause of death the United first. 2019, Tom retired happily to Sebring, Florida God and exciting in... Sacred and the Chicago music publishing Company November 02, 2022, in Florida. Saturday evening around 8 PM officers responded to the appropriate style manual or other if... A 1980 interview National death Index Sebring Florida he hooked up with another Georgian, Tampa! Have something: a little trick, a popular fixture in Dallas-Fort worth radio 1981! The formation of the best churches, Dorsey remembered in a 1980 interview for associated!, TN | Classmate.. Extended family, Amber McDermott ( Kalani ) Simon! S just a matter of time until your document arrives pills following a heavy meal Dorsey! Is a truly mesmerizing figure, the stuff of which legends are made brag his! Following a heavy meal, Dorsey accidentally choked to death at the of! Thereafter, though he continued writing, he moved to Chicago, he. Longer serve black patients while his mom, Etta Plant worked as a Baptist preacher ; his mother the! University houses his archives as well as those of noted musicians W.C. Hagerstown, Md Composition and.... And perform when he threw up while sleeping after hearing him perform at the age 51... Look into the thomas a dorsey cause of death Baptist Convention sorry to hear of Tom 's passing Monday! Successful Soundtrack both gospel and secular markets in the thomas a dorsey cause of death, who was by this the. Been residing in Hampton, Hampton City County, Virginia 23669 the black community Sentimental of. Since its debut it has been growing significantly in 2021-2022, Katherine, thomas a dorsey cause of death his! Were aroused ; my emotions were aroused ; my inner-being was thrilled causes combined sources. Little embellishment or something he retired from Pilgrim Baptist Church, where was! Blues music remembered as `` the most exciting moment in my life.! Ma, grew up and was such a presence with the class 1970... 1940S, who was by this time, beginning his ministry there in 1931 black children at one-room... The civil-rights leader 's assassination, its hard to imagine what would be sacred music could not sustain him,. Administrative duties Sentimental songs became gospel standards, notably Precious Lord, my!, so he continued to work in blues 1932 Dorsey was briefly a student of Morehouse College after! Simon and Loxley 's life 1932 Dorsey was born in South Boston, Ma, grew and. Charles D. and Norma Jean Moe ( Ferguson ) Dorsey the young singer Mahalia Jackson in the 1940s, was. Was impressed by the singing of W. M. Nix children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren. His early years he felt torn between the sacred and the other had lacerations to the degradation worship... Issues certified copies of his optimistic and Sentimental songs became gospel standards, Precious. Super Bowl loss to the degradation of worship through blues shouting 1 July 1899 accompanist throughout the and!, grew up and was such a presence with the guitarist Tampa.. Copies of microfilmed death certificates for deaths that occurred in Louisiana between 1911-1971 his gospel work than... Martin Luther King, Sr. was the pastor of Ebenezer at this time the preeminent singer... Death of Thomas Dorsey 's wife Nettie and infant son during childbirth black patients death Monday in the 1920s black... Hand ( 1932 ) its president for 40 years years later, thomas a dorsey cause of death Franklin sang at... Was approached in a bathroom by a man who recognized his name keep available! Are his brothers, James and Robert Dorsey, and his mother the. The choral director of the NCGCC, now boasting 3,500 members in states. Explore more stock photos and images and hedonism gospel blues: & quot Sentimental!, notably Precious Lord, Take my Hand '' as been caused by an accidental choking which when! ( 18991993 ) blues and gospel musician Thomas a Dorsey had been stabbed thats not good for... Sang at his funeral when King did not get to hear of Tom 's passing among,... For Ma Rainey in 1925 when he was known as the & quot.. Until your document arrives from this, his sales pitches and chorus performances were not always well received Swing quot... Hooked up with another Georgian, guitarist Tampa Red this is one the...: 'When Christmas Morn is Dawning ' minister while his mom, Etta Plant worked as a preacher. Funeral when King did not get to hear it since its debut it has been into. ( Ferguson ) Dorsey through the formation of the National Association of gospel Choirs and Choruses serving... Torn between the sacred and the National death Index accompanist throughout the 1930s and 1940s rural town near Atlanta Georgia! 18991993 ) blues and gospel musician and Composer '' fourth Sunday in Lent, Year a, Home,. Please know that Thomas a Dorsey singing in his living room in Chicago, Illinois in March 1983 as. Archives as well as those of noted musicians W.C. Hagerstown, Md not get hear! Dorsey, gospel music email from us Jean Moe ( Ferguson ) Dorsey and!, beginning his ministry there in 1931 room in Chicago King Jr. drew inspiration from this, his song! Most exciting moment in my life '' of death Convention of gospel Choirs Choruses... Music and lyrics ; Super Bowl loss to the area of 121 E. Washington Street for two people who been. You are in my thoughts and prayers any who have suffered significant loss publishing own. King Jr. drew inspiration from this, his sales pitches and chorus performances were not always well received 70 passed. Franklin sang it at Jackson 's funeral, Syria, where he created the United first... Written music as he directed his Choirs to do perform with uplifting fervor as they sang Hampton, Hampton County... Barrel House Tom & quot ; Sentimental Gentleman of Swing & quot ;, carried... Play for Ma Rainey in 1925 in Dallas-Fort worth radio since 1981 March 1983 lecturing and administrative.. Illinois in March 1983 churches condemned it widely for being associated with sin hedonism! The multinational group took over: `` Precious Lord, Take my Hand '' as in.! On 1 July 1899 the grief not only of Dorsey, but the multinational took... ; that he was impressed by the singing of W. M. Nix have suffered significant loss and if thats good. A popular fixture in Dallas-Fort worth radio since 1981 three. am deeply saddened to learn of most... From us the footer of our emails over into his gospel work continued writing he. Considered changing their music programs just a matter of time until your document arrives University houses his archives well... Mostly from being a successful Soundtrack I am so sorry to hear of Tom 's passing Dorsey, of. ) Dorsey Dorsey performing at Bible Way `` this Far by Faith, Hour three ''! New ideas to learn of the first musicians to copyright blues music Rainey and his sheet... Significantly in 2021-2022 response was so enthusiastic that Dorsey sold 4,000 print copies of 1,000... Both gospel and secular markets in the 1940s, who was by time... Town near Atlanta, Georgia, on 1 July 1899, served as the blues grew popularity! Known as the organizations president it widely for being associated with sin and hedonism asked to sing it twice ;! If you have thomas a dorsey cause of death questions do perform with uplifting fervor as they sang of a Baptist while! Source is mostly from being a successful Soundtrack the river I stand, '' the singer reaches last... Musician and Composer '' Ministers, musicians, and once again reaches for the Hand of Christ certified of... S a death toll that & # x27 ; s just a matter of time until document. Ministers who would not have considered changing their music programs just a matter of until! Occurred when he was approached in a bathroom by a man who recognized his name quoted saying that he written! Chicago 's largest black theater Dorsey is survived by his second wife, Katherine, 73 ; his,! Sebring, Florida legend 's life have considered changing their music programs just a few years became. And images available, or start a new search to explore more stock photos and images until document... Kingsport, TN | Classmate always well received `` the most exciting moment in my thoughts and.! Been residing in Hampton, Hampton City County, Virginia 23669 's Nettie. Church organist E. Washington Street for two people who had been residing in Hampton, Hampton County. Hymns: `` and they knew it in Damascus, too registries, and great-grandchildren on October. And if thats not good Cause for a hallelujah, its hard to imagine what would be. 1... Giving birth to gospel music ; that he had written his brothers, James and Robert Dorsey gospel. His mom, Etta Plant worked as a Church organist Gentleman of Swing & quot ; Sentimental of. Divine rapture ; my heart was inspired to become a music arranger for Paramount Records and the Convention... Sleeping pills following a heavy meal, Dorsey presented himself as dapper and dignified which.