Gospel Singers Photo Appraisal

Vintage Black and White Photograph of the Soul Stirrers

This is a vintage black and white gelatin silver print photograph capturing three members of the legendary gospel group, the Soul Stirrers, performing during the mid-1960s. The image features group members Johnnie Taylor (front left), James Phelps (center), and Paul Foster (right). The subjects are depicted in profile and three-quarter views, dressed in coordinated formal performance attire including light-colored tuxedos with dark shawl lapels and bowties. The lighting is dramatic, highlighting the contours of their faces as they sing into a vintage-style microphone stand visible on the left edge. The photograph appears to be printed on medium-weight glossy paper with a small white border. In terms of condition, there is several visible creases and 'buckling' in the paper across the top edge, and a minor surface scratch is visible on the jacket of the lead figure. The tonality shows a good range of grays with deep blacks, though there is some slight silvering or fading consistent with age. This is a significant piece of music history documenting the mid-century transition from traditional gospel to the soul era. No specific photographer's mark or studio stamp is visible on the front, but the composition suggests a professional candid shot from a concert or recording session.