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Interview with The Turner Brothers
January 2007, BlackGospel.com by Christopher Heron

The Traditional Quartet sound of the South is safe and well today, thanks to legends like the Canton Spirituals, The Five Blind Boys of Alabama and The Mighty Clouds of Joy who all continue to enjoy national and international audiences. A new crop of Quartet singers are also emerging, creating a new buzz and interest in ole’-time-religion music like the Soul Seekers, the 7 Sons of Soul and the Turner Brothers of Orlando, Florida.

As a family firmly rooted in music and the church, the Turner Brothers found its creative expression for melody and ministry through the Traditional music of the church, at a very early age. Their parents, Bernard, Sr. & Joan Turner were faithful and living examples to the boys, who would eventually follow in their footsteps and minister through music within Florida and eventually across the country. Their latest album – A Family That Prays Together, Stays Together – is the culmination of their faith as a family in God and their testimony in song of God’s divine plan for The Turner family. We spoke with The Turner Brothers recently on how they overcame professional setbacks and sickness in the household to survive and testify through song.

Christopher Heron: Let’s begin where it all started…in the Turner home. Share with us how music was introduced by your parents and played a part in the home at a very early age. And when did music evolve from a passing interest into a passionate ministry for the Turner Brothers?

The Turner Brothers / Bernard "Bam" Turner: Our parents Bernard and Joan sang with a quartet group named The Soul Searchers. At a young age we were blessed to travel along with them as they went from city to city in Florida singing. Then there came a time in 1986 when my father was tired of the unstable musicians, so he prayed that his children would be granted the gift of music. From 1981to 1987, we evolved into talented children who at a young age could sing and play guitars, drums, and a bass guitar.

CH: Quartet music is always popular in the South. Who were and remain some of your favorite Gospel Quartet and Traditional artists?

The Turner Brothers / Jason: Some of our favorite Quartet and Traditional artist are the Canton Spirituals, the Williams Brothers, the Pilgrim Jubilees, and the Soul Stirrers.

CH: Traditional Quartet music is still alive and well in the church. What is the appeal of this particular form of Gospel music, for those of us who haven’t grown up with it or don’t have as much exposure to it in the North?

The Turner Brothers / Quantary: I think that Quartet music is appealing because Quartet music is the foundation for Gospel music with a soulful and fulfilling sound.

CH: Keeping a group of artists on the same page and motivated can sometimes be difficult, even among family members, which is why I suspect The Turner Brothers took some time off in the late 90’s. Take us back to that time when The Turner Brothers put everything on hold. And how did the group find the wherewithal and inspiration to pick up from where they left off, 4 years later?

The Turner Brothers / Norris: As we continued to evolve into skillful musicians, 1996-2000 was a time for us to expand our borders in different states. Some of us went to college and we also played for numerous Gospel Quartet groups. Our inspiration came from within through experience to launch a new era for the Turner Brothers. Our incentive was, if others can make it, surely we can.

CH: The Turner Brothers appears to be more than siblings today that include talented individuals who didn’t necessarily grow up under your roof. It even boasts a young member, which is so unique for a Traditional Quartet Group. Tell us how these changes to the group unfolded and how it has enhanced the sound and ministry of The Turner Brothers.

The Turner Brothers / Derrick: We grew up around each other so the non-siblings of the group are not our natural brothers but, we are brothers in Christ and we have a brotherly love and respect for each other. Yes... our youngest member Kemuel is my son and he helps bridge the gap between generations and inspires the youth to listen to and enjoy Quartet and Traditional music.

CH: Your new album – A Family That Prays Together, Stays Together – is an interesting title. Why did you choose this name for your latest album?

The Turner Brothers / Haissen: We chose the name because everyone can relate to family whether it’s your natural family or your adopted family. We also believe in prayer in families because it will unite us and keep us in Christ.

CH: In closing, what is your prayer and hope for those who listen to your album and experience your music ministry live?

The Turner Brothers / Gary: Our prayer is salvation, healing, hope, prosperity, and the building of a relationship with each other and with Christ.

For more information on the Turner Brothers, visit the official website at www.turnerbrothersgospel.com. To contact the group for more information, booking or feedback, email joifullofglory@yahoo.com or call 321-303-7425.