Robert Anderson (singer) facts for kids

Robert Anderson (born March 21, 1919 – died June 15, 1995) was an American gospel singer and songwriter. He was known for his amazing baritone voice. A journalist once wrote that during the 1940s and 1950s, Robert Anderson was seen as the best male gospel singer. His singing style was often compared to famous artists like Bing Crosby. Unlike some other gospel singers of his time, he didn't move around much on stage. Instead, he focused on making his voice sound perfect.

Robert Anderson's Early Life and Learning

Robert Anderson was born in Anguilla, Mississippi. When he was a child, his family moved to Chicago. He learned to play the piano by listening and practicing. He also helped Roberta Martin teach the Sunday school choir at the Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church.

In 1933, Robert became one of the first members of The Roberta Martin Singers. He stayed with this group for six years. He also studied music at the Chicago Conservatory of Music.

Robert Anderson's Music Career

In 1939, Robert Anderson left The Roberta Martin Singers. He started a new group called the Knowles and Anderson Singers with R. L. Knowles. He sang as a solo artist with this group until 1941. Then, he went back to The Roberta Martin Singers.

He sang with them for a few more years. But he eventually left because the group traveled too much. In 1942, he started his own music publishing company called Good Shepherd Music House. It was located in Gary, Indiana. His company published his own songs, like "Prayer Changes Things" and "Why Should I Worry."

Rising to Fame

In 1943, Robert Anderson sang his song "Something Within" at the National Baptist Convention. After this performance, his music career really took off.

In 1947, Anderson formed a new group called 'Robert Anderson and his Gospel Caravan'. This group later changed its name to The Caravans in 1951. Robert Anderson and The Caravans made their first recordings in 1949. These songs were released on the Miracle Records label.

In 1951, Anderson and The Caravans joined the United Records label. However, in 1952, Robert Anderson and The Caravans decided to go their separate ways.

Solo Work and Later Years

After leaving The Caravans, Robert Anderson continued to record music. He started a new group called The Robert Anderson Singers. In 1954, Anderson and his new group joined Apollo Records.

In 1955, Robert Anderson began recording music as a solo artist. He continued to record and perform on his own until the mid-1990s. He worked with record labels like Vee Jay Records and Savoy Records.

Robert Anderson also worked as a choir director at several churches. These included Greater Harvest Baptist Church in Chicago and Opportunity Baptist Church in Los Angeles.

Robert Anderson's Death

Robert Anderson passed away in Hazel Crest, Illinois on June 15, 1995. He was 76 years old.