The Gospelaires

Five young adults from Old Union Christian Union Church, performed at the Lawson Centennial Celebration in the summer of 1971. After a few more performances, The Gospelaires were formed and managed by Joe and Agnes Knutter. Original members were: Margie Baker, Kenny Duncan, Mike Duncan, Gordon Nolker and Bob Knutter. Later in 1972, Jay Hill became the drummer, soon to be succeeded in 1973 by longtime drummer, Tom Pope.

In nearly 50 years of ministry, the Gospelaires have had around 45 members (including five second generation members) and have released 18 albums. Many former members have gone on to be pastors/ministers. Tim Parton, another former member, can be seen playing the piano in some of the Gaither Homecoming videos. Six former members have passed on to be with the Lord: Jay Hill (1976), Johnny Harris (2002), Lawrence Dysart (2008), Paul Marchbanks (2015), Margie Baker (2016) and Tom Pope (2018). Original manager, Joe Knutter passed away in 1996.

The Gospelaires currently perform 15-20 times per year, many being annual visits to Christian friends made over the years. The group is a non-profit organization that consistently travels through Missouri, Kansas and Iowa singing the Gospel. The Gospelaires have never charged a fee for a performance and the members do not get paid to perform. The money goes back into the group to support expenses for recording, travel and equipment.