Oris Mays facts for kids
Reverend Oris Mays (born 1935 – died April 21, 1996) was an American preacher, gospel singer, and songwriter. He was known for his powerful voice and inspiring messages.
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Early Life and Education
Oris Mays was born in Lambert, Mississippi. When he was a teenager, he moved to Memphis, Tennessee. He finished high school at Melrose High School. Later, he studied theology, which is the study of religious faith, at J. L. Campbell School of Religion and Brewster Seminary.
A Dedicated Pastor
Reverend Mays became the pastor of the Boston Baptist Church in Memphis in 1960. He led this church for many years, until he passed away.
His Music Career
Reverend Mays had a successful career in gospel music. He recorded songs with several record companies.
Early Recordings
He started his recording journey with Don Robey's Song Bird Records and Jewel Records. In 1966, Song Bird released his album called Tribute In Prayer (from A Soldier In Vietnam). He also released more albums in 1973 and 1974.
Later Albums
From 1965 to 1982, he released many songs and albums with Jewel Records. Before the 1980s, he also worked with Creed/Nashboro Records. Later, he released music with Atlanta International Records in 1985 and then with Miracle Records.
The Bostonians
Some of his recordings featured his church's choir, known as The Bostonians. In the 1990s, he sometimes performed with Reverend Clay Evans.
Other Important Work
Reverend Mays was involved in more than just preaching and singing.
Record Shop and Production
He co-owned a record shop on Beale Street. He also helped other gospel artists record their music. He produced records for groups like The Johnson Ensemble and The Masonic Travelers under Jewel Records. He also produced for Ollie Collins Jr. under Song Bird.
Music Industry Roles
Starting in November 1968, he worked for Holiday Inn Records/Klondike. His job was an A&R person and regional promotion manager. This meant he helped find new talent and promote their music. He also worked for a smaller Memphis record label called B. B. Productions.
TV and Radio Programs
Reverend Mays hosted a gospel TV program on Sundays. It started around 1966 on WMC-TV. This was the first gospel show in Memphis hosted by an African-American person. In its final years, the show was broadcast on WHBQ-TV. His church sermons were also played on local radio stations like WLOK and WBBP.
Notable Songs and Views
Reverend Mays' music sometimes reflected his views on important events. His 1966 album and a song from 1971 showed different feelings about the Vietnam War. His famous song "Don't Let the Devil Ride" was sung by many other artists. These included Brother Joe May, Bishop Dready Manning, The Campbell Brothers, and Lucinda Williams.
