07/06/2025
BREAKING NEWS
KINGSMEN ANNOUNCE NEW TENOR VOCALIST
After much prayer, reflection, and even a few surprises along the way, the Kingsmen are excited to welcome Harold Reed back to the quartet as tenor vocalist. Harold, who previously spent several years in the group during the 2000s and made popular such favorites as “I Knew It Was Him” and the #1 classic, “God Saw a Cross”, made his return official at Singing in the Smokies on July 5.
“We were thrilled when Harold simply agreed to fill in with us while we searched for a tenor,” says Kingsmen baritone and stage manager Alan Kendall. “We immediately felt a great chemistry and camaraderie with Harold, and he eased back into his former post so naturally. Little did we know that Harold was wrestling with the calling to return to singing full-time. After several weeks of prayer and discussion between Harold and his wife Katie, they both came to us at the Squire Parsons Memorial and made clear that they were on board and ready to go. Not only does Harold match the youth and energy of Cole Watson and Brady Jones with his more than 35 years of experience in gospel music, but he has brought with that experience a level of spiritual wisdom and discernment that has enriched our performances. We couldn’t be more happy to welcome him back.”
Harold shares the group’s enthusiasm. “When I left the road and quit singing several years ago, I would never have imagined that I would be back out here. When the door opened once again with the Kingsmen, I offered to fill in (something else I never thought I’d do). I was nervous and excited at the same time! The Lord finally made it overwhelmingly clear to me and Katie that this was the right time. It’s an honor and a privilege that after more than 30 years out here, I can come back and again sing with my all-time favorite group. I think the biggest thrill of all is being here for the upcoming 70th anniversary, especially with Ray, Brandon, Alan, Cole, and Brady. I’m thankful for this opportunity, and I look forward to seeing everybody out on the road again.”
The Kingsmen are quickly approaching their 70th anniversary for 2026 with numerous exciting projects in the works. They are in the final stages of preparing their commemorative 70th anniversary album, a special 70th anniversary tour, and a documentary produced and directed by Evan Bradford. Kingsmen alumnus Bryan Hutson and gospel music enthusiast Josh Griffin have also began a podcast dedicated to all things Kingsmen Quartet, entitled Behind the Crown, now available on all streaming outlets.
Hall of Famer, group owner, and 58-year Kingsmen veteran Ray Dean Reese reflects, “Even now and as I spend more time relaxing at home, I still sit in my office, work a little bit, and reflect on God’s many blessings all these years, I am so proud and excited about today’s group of Kingsmen. Brandon, Alan, Cole, Brady, and Harold…What a team to carry us forward!”
The Kingsmen extend our heartfelt appreciation to our friends Blake Buffin, Landon Farris, and Devin Smith for filling in during this time of transition. We also extend our appreciation to Jonny Baker of the Melodyaires Quartet for his selfless assistance and support.
