Big John Hall graduated to heaven Tuesday, September 29. He was 81.
When he took the microphone at tent meetings and church events, he ministered. His heart for worship served as a compass for his life. He always said he put singing after his ministry. To those who loved him, they were one in the same.
Hall brought his booming, bass-baritone voice to southern gospel music for more than 50 years. Early in his ministry, he rounded out quartets like the Inspirationals, Blackwood Brothers and Stamps Quartet. He spent much of his life as a solo artist who maintained in-person ministry while also recording numerous records spanning the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s.
Just last year, as the guest of charismatic pastor Rodney Howard-Browne, he ministered in music at the Vision19 Conference at The River Church in Tampa, Florida.
Over his life, Hall was recognized as Vocalist of the Year three times by Religion in Media.
“Big John Hall is known and loved for his ministry in music,” his Facebook shows, part of the message used when he was receiving an award. “He is a big man with a big voice, gentle spirit and big heart.”
YouTube is home to many of Hall’s ministry opportunities, including his frequent place singing on Gaither Homecoming.
Hall was inducted into the Texas Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 1987. He was inducted into the National Gospel Music Hall of Fame, along with the Stamps Quartet and the Blackwood Brothers, in 1988.
In August 2001, Hall became a member of the Hall of Honor of the Assemblies of God for musical performance.
His recordings include: “Here Come The McDuff Brothers with Big John Hall,” “I Don’t Know Why,” “If God is Dead,” “I am Loved,” “Life In Jesus Name,” “The Lord Liveth,” “Reason I Praise” and “Rise And Be Healed.”
Also stated during an award ceremony: “A concert with Big John is a celebration of praise, celebrating the life-changing power of Jesus Christ. He allows himself to become an instrument of worship, encouraging and ultimately enabling all present with him to become aware of the Glory of God and the power of His presence.”{eoa}
