Minister, Composer. A Methodist Episcopal minister and hymnwriter who profoundly influenced African American gospel music. The son of slave parents, he never received formal schooling and taught himself to read and write. Sometimes called the "Father of Gospel Music," Tindley composed hymns that can be found in the songbooks of every Christian denomination. His more than 60 hymns include "Stand By Me" (which became a national hit when Ben E. King and the Drifters sang their version during the 1960s), "Beams of Heaven", "We'll Understand It Better By and By", "Nothing Between My Soul and My Saviour", "Leave It There", "The Storm Is Passing Over", "A Better Home", and "What Are They Doing in Heaven Tonight?". One of his best-known songs, "I'll Overcome Someday", is said to have provided the basis for the civil rights anthem, "We Shall Overcome." Although Tindley's name is not well known, his contributions to music cannot be ignored. His music continues to capture the confident testimony of his life and ministry.

Minister, Composer. A Methodist Episcopal minister and hymnwriter who profoundly influenced African American gospel music. The son of slave parents, he never received formal schooling and taught himself to read and write. Sometimes called the "Father of Gospel Music," Tindley composed hymns that can be found in the songbooks of every Christian denomination. His more than 60 hymns include "Stand By Me" (which became a national hit when Ben E. King and the Drifters sang their version during the 1960s), "Beams of Heaven", "We'll Understand It Better By and By", "Nothing Between My Soul and My Saviour", "Leave It There", "The Storm Is Passing Over", "A Better Home", and "What Are They Doing in Heaven Tonight?". One of his best-known songs, "I'll Overcome Someday", is said to have provided the basis for the civil rights anthem, "We Shall Overcome." Although Tindley's name is not well known, his contributions to music cannot be ignored. His music continues to capture the confident testimony of his life and ministry.

Bio by: Curtis Jackson