Accolades

Pioneers of Six Decades

The rich history of The Imperials is deeply rooted in the pioneering spirit of its members, who played pivotal roles in shaping the Christian Music Industry. Icons like Paul Smith and Ron Hemby have remained grounded amidst their accomplishments, never letting accolades overshadow the mission to spread a message of faith and hope through music.

Today, these award-winning artists are joined by Rick Evans, the General Manager of The Imperials, whose impressive background includes collaborations with some of the most recognized Christian platforms. Evans’ experience with the Dennis Agajanian Band, Greg Laurie and The Harvest Crusades, the Billy Graham Organization, Promise Keepers, and Franklin Graham Festivals adds a robust layer of leadership to the group.

Alongside Evans, the presence of newcomer Rod Flecther signals a continuation of the group's legacy. This new lineup fosters an unbroken history, bridging generations of listeners with a message that resonates deeply in today's world.

As The Imperials embark on this new journey, the commitment to excellence remains unwavering. The fusion of seasoned artistry and fresh talent ensures that the impactful music and values established many years ago will continue to inspire the next generation. The legacy of The Imperials will carry on, enriching hearts and souls through their timeless contributions to Christian music.

Accomplishments

The Imperials have built a remarkable legacy in Christian music, marked by a series of significant milestones that underscored their prominent place in the industry. Their collective accomplishments are unparalleled, setting a standard for others in the genre. Below are key landmarks that highlight their influential history:

  • Grammy Recognition: Nominated for Grammy Awards 13 times, they secured victory on 4 occasions, affirming their artistry and impact.

  • Dove Award Honors: With an impressive 58 nominations for Dove Awards, their 17 wins showcase their continued excellence and popularity within the Christian music community.

  • Historical Wins: The Imperials made history in 1969 by being recognized as the first recipient of the Dove Award for Male Group of the Year, solidifying their prominence in the early days of the awards. In 1981, they earned the prestigious title of Artist of the Year, further establishing their legacy.

  • Hall of Fame Induction: In 1998, the Imperials were inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, a testament to their lasting influence on gospel music.

  • Chart-Topping Success: They were the first group to achieve a #1 song across three charts (Contemporary, Inspirational, Southern Gospel) for an unprecedented 12 weeks with “Oh Buddha,” in addition to holding a remarkable 32 number-one songs in Christian music.

  • Decades of Dominance: Their ability to produce a number-one song in four consecutive decades (the 1960s through the 1990s) reflects their adaptability and sustained relevance.

  • Notable Collaborations: The Imperials had the honor of performing alongside iconic figures including Jimmy Dean, Elvis Presley, Carol Channing, and Pat Boone, enriching their experience and audience reach.

  • Film Appearances: They featured in the Elvis Presley film "That’s The Way It Was," further intertwining their legacy with one of music's greatest stars.

  • Television Milestones: As trailblazers, they were the first Christian group to appear at the Grammy Awards and made numerous national television appearances on shows such as 700 Club, Trinity Broadcasting Network, and CNN - Take Two, expanding their influence and audience.

  • Global Impact: The Imperials traveled to 21 countries, including Canada, England, Israel, and many more, sharing their music and message across diverse cultures and communities.

Through these accomplishments, The Imperials have not only defined their generation but have also paved the way for future artists in Christian music. Their enduring legacy remains a source of inspiration for many.