In the mid 1930’s 4 highschool students from Norfol, VA joined together to create what was initially called the Golden Gate Jubilee Quartet. They gained momentum by performing for local churches and radio shows ultimately getting the attention of the record label, Victor. Though they sang mostly gospel and jubilee, they incorporated jazz and barbershop type influence. They were known for their melodic sound and having voices that “sound like instruments”. The starting group included  William Langford  who was second tenor, and Orlandus Wilson, bass, Willie Johnson who was both baritone and narrator, and Henry Owens, first tenor, who sang for the Booker T.  Washington High School glee club.