The Primitive Quartet's Musical Legacy: A Journey Through Time

In 1973, two sets of Western North Carolina brothers, Reagan and Larry Riddle, and Furman and Norman Wilson, embarked on a fishing trip that would change their lives forever. During this trip, they discovered a shared love for harmony singing, which led to the formation of The Primitive Quartet. With the encouragement of their parents and pastor, the group began performing at local churches as the Riddle-Wilson Quartet.

Over the years, the group underwent some changes, with Furman Wilson leaving in 1978 to pursue other interests. However, this departure marked a new beginning for the quartet, as they welcomed Mike Riddle into their ranks and adopted their current name. The Primitive Quartet has been dedicated to spreading the message of bluegrass gospel music ever since.

To celebrate their rich legacy, The Primitive Quartet has collaborated with Mountain Home Music Company on the 'Through The Years' series. This ambitious project aims to make the group's historic releases available to new generations of fans through digital platforms. The series will encompass eight volumes, covering nearly 40 years of music, including a Christmas collection and a compilation of songs from their live albums.

The latest installment in this series is Through The Years Volume 6, which features beloved songs like 'He's Still Passing By,' 'Thank You For The Roses,' and 'I'm Looking Through New Eyes.' These tracks were written by Reagan Riddle himself, showcasing his skill as a songwriter. This volume joins the previous five volumes, as well as a Christmas collection, in the series.

The 'Through The Years' series is a testament to The Primitive Quartet's enduring legacy as bluegrass gospel artists. By making their music available on digital platforms, this project ensures that the group's vital musical ministry will be accessible for generations to come. Fans of the quartet can look forward to exploring their extensive discography and discovering new favorite songs.

With their dedication to spreading the message of bluegrass gospel music, The Primitive Quartet has left an indelible mark on the music world. Their story is a testament to the power of harmony singing and the enduring legacy that music can leave behind.

Primitive quartet songbooks