| The Rance Allen Group | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Monroe, Michigan |
| Genres | Gospel, Rhythm and blues |
| Labels | Gospel Truth, Stax |
The Rance Allen Group is a gospel music group formed in Monroe, Michigan, and based in Toledo, Ohio.[1] The group's incorporation of rock and soul into traditional gospel music prefigures the crossover success of such artists as Amy Grant, Andrae Crouch, and The Winans.[1][2]
The Rance Allen Group was formed by vocalist, guitarist, pianist, and songwriter Rance Allen (b. Monroe, Michigan) with his brothers Tom (drums) and Steve (bass guitar); another brother, Esau (percussionist), joined the group on an intermittent basis.[3]:256 During an appearance at a gospel talent contest in Detroit, Michigan, they came to the attention of one of the judges, record promoter Dave Clark, who worked for Stax Records.[1][3]:255-256 The group was the first to be signed to the Stax imprint Gospel Truth, and they recorded for the Stax organization throughout the 1970s.[1][3]:256 In 1972, the group appeared in the documentary film Wattstax.[3]:270 Following this appearance, the group was named "Best Religious Group" by the National Association of Television and Radio Announcers (NATRA).[3]:272 David Porter co-produced the group's 1975 album A Soulful Experience, for which he wrote an autobiographical song, "Just Found Me".[3]:363 In 1978, the group had a Top 30 R&B hit, "I Belong to You."[2]