Editor-in-Chief Chris Unthank had a chance to chat with The Diplomats’ Corey Pearson recently! Check out this brief Q&A with one of the industry’s most respected and loved groups!
Chris Unthank: First, for those who aren’t familiar with the group, give us a rundown of your personnel and the their roles.
Corey Pearson: Our group consists of myself (lead vocals, bass guitar and piano), Rita Pearson (alto vocals), Jim Pearson (baritone vocals and manager), Alex Utech is the bass singer (drives the bus and makes coffee), Daniel Maddox is the drummer (trash ministry HAHA), and Jordan Hamby is the lead guitarist (sound ministry HA!).
CU: What is the history of The Diplomats?
CP: The group was formed in 1968 as an all male quartet. The group had many number one songs and awards back during those years and when most of the men retired and Jim and Rita got married, the group became a mixed quartet. Jim Pearson is the only living original member.
CU: Your group is known for lively performances. What sets you guys apart from others touring today?
CP: Well we still carry the traditional sound but with a live band. We love every aspect of gospel music and the different styles. We just still lean toward the traditional.
CU: There seems to be a nice resurgence of live music in the industry. What reasons do you see for that shift?
CP: For so long, Gospel music always had the best musicians, and I believe folks have missed that. Therefore, you see more live music in stage than you have in several years.
CU: Tell us about your most recent project. Are there any plans for new music soon?
CP: Our latest recording is Let Your Light Shine. It’s already had a few radio charters It’s also on iTunes.
CU: Corey, you recently became a part of Pat Barker’s “One Night Only” event. Tell us how you got involved and your roll.
CP: Well, not only has Pat been one of my best friends, but we love getting to sing together when we can. We were discussing about how cool it would be to take soloist and make them a quartet with a live band. My job is the band! I’ll be picking some of the Music and writing all the charts. It’s gonna be a great night.
CU: Is there anything you would like our readers to know about your group?
CP: The Diplomats have traveled many years and many miles and it’s always a blessing to see other artist and to listen to them sing, but I really enjoy the revivals and camp meetings that we do and to see seed that has been sown come to harvest.
CU: What has God been teaching you lately?
CP: Patience, and to try to be more forgiving.
You can find out more information on The Diplomats by visiting them online at www.diplomatsqt.com.
