The Soul Stirrers

American gospel music group, whose career spans over eighty years (active since 1926). The group was a pioneer in the development of the quartet style of gospel, and a major influence of soul music, doo wop, and motown sound. The group was initially formed by Senior Roy Crain and had its beginnings in Trinity, Texas. Crain moved to Houston, Texas in the 1930s where he joined an existing group on the condition that it change its name to "The Soul Stirrers". Inducted into Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in 1989 (Early Influence).