Producer Frank Crisler formed the group in 1940, yet they did not become active until 1969, with the release of Too Late by Song Bird Records. At its inception, The group consisted of five members; Huey Williams, Roger Bryant Jr., Maurice Surrell, James Burks, and Luther Jennings. The group received a nomination for a Grammy Award in the Best Traditional Gospel Album category at the 34th Annual Grammy Awards. The group has released 28 albums, including their 2010 release, Back Again, with Blackberry Records. Eleven albums have charted on the Billboard magazine charts, only on the Gospel Albums chart.
Members
Current
Huey Williams
Maurice Surrell
James Burks
Former
Roger Bryant Jr. (Deceased)
Willie Banks (Deceased)
Frank Williams (Deceased)
Luther Jennings (Deceased)
Huey Williams
Huey (Paul) Williams, Sr., a native Mississippian, is the son of the late Leon “Pop” Williams and Mrs. Amanda Williams, who resides in Smithdale, Mississippi. Huey is thankful to God for being first in his life. He is especially grateful to God for having two loving parents who encouraged and pushed him forward in all of his efforts toward serving the Lord and making a meaningful profession of singing and praising God. He loves his parents for bringing him and his siblings up in the church and keeping them on their knees and keeping God on their minds and in their hearts. Huey also thanks his immediate family - - wife Mamie Williams, son Huey Paul Williams II, and daughters Dee Dee, Wanda, Shononda and Joy for standing behind him in his gospel and spiritual endeavors. Huey began singing the gospel with his brothers during his early years, and although he is the only Williams of the original group started by his late Father, by God’s grace he has led the Southernaires to become one of the top gospel recording artist in the State of Mississippi, throughout the United States and abroad. Thanks to the radio and television angels who have stood beside the Southernaires through the good and the bad times, the Southernaires are still top performers in the gospel industry, and have remained in the top 20s on the gospel music charts. Fans young and old have always loved and bought the Southernaires music. Writing, arranging and singing is Huey Williams, Sr. Huey loves hunting and fishing when he is not on the move for Jesus, and thinks that he is pretty good at both.
Maurice Surrell, Sr.
Maurice Surrell, Sr. a.k.a. “The Godfather” of Quartet and Gospel Drummers, was born December 14, 1954, in Jackson, MS, he is the son of Mr. David Surrell Sr. (a former member of the Jackson Southernaires) and Mrs. Gloria Lea; he is a graduate of C.M. & I High School in Jackson, MS He began his career in 1968 at the age of 13 with the renowned Williams Brothers of Smithdale, Mississippi; he played drums and sang with themfor over 14 years. He joined the Jackson Southernaires in 1982 and has been a faithful member and drummer for over 20 years, he is also Assitant Manager, Business Manager, Secretary, Treasurer, Fasion Coordinator and Tenor Singer. He is also owner of LLERRUS Music Publishing. He ia a member of Word of Faith Christian Center where Bishop Kevin E. Wright is pastor; he is also a member of the Praise Team and Voices of Faith Choir. His motto is: “Have Faith in God, for with God, All things are possible” Maurice became one of Malaco Records in house studio drummers in the early 1980’s, his dexterity and showmanship as a percussionist has gained him signature drumsticks since the early 1990’s and he is currently pursuing an endorsement with a major drumstick company. He has achieved recognition for such Special Achievement awards as Mississippi Gospel Music Award (Musician of the Year), Gospel Music Workshop of America (Quartet Division Award), and the California State Assembly (Certificate of Recognition). His personal successes with the Southernaires are endless. Maurice is married to Janice Boyd-Surrell and he is the father of two, Maurice, Jr. and Erica Surrell. My advice to upcoming groups: “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you” – Matthew 6:33
James Burks
James Burks was born in Jackson, Mississippi, and at a young age moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was born into a family that God had anointed and blessed with various musical gifts. In the summer of 1967, James returned to Jackson. He was feeling a call on his life to use his gifts to help spread God’s word through song and praise. He is blessed to have musical talent, and is able to play both lead and bass guitars, and some keyboard also. He is also blessed to be a singer with the ability to sing in various voices. He first joined a local group but was not with them long before he was to become a Jackson Southernaire. He has been with the Southernaires for 34 years. Putting God first in his life has enabled him to continue on the glorious path. When at home, James enjoys attending church, fishing, other outdoor activities and just relaxing with his wife, family and friends. James thanks his family, fans, and friends for all of the years of support and prayers. God’s blessings are extended to you all.
Chris Forrest
All praises and glory be to God. Chris Forrest of Winona, Mississippi, was born December 18, 1973, and is the son of Reverend Jimmy L. Forrest and Minister Rosie L. Forrest. He was raised in the church, and is thankful to his parents for providing a loving and spiritual home during his childhood. He is especially grateful to God for allowing him to continue to follow after his godly teachings from his early stages of life until now. Chris’s parents introduced him to gospel music at a very early age. He began to follow his father at the age of two years old as he traveled with Willie Banks and the Messengers. By the age of three, Chris was playing drums for The Forrest Brothers quartet group, which was his first group he played for in the gospel music profession. Chris gives God the glory and praise, for he is still a vessel for God and still loves playing gospel music. Chris is the father of three beautiful daughters - - Ashley, Kirsten and Aniya. It has always been Chris’s lifelong dream to change the world, with his gift of music. Chris counts it a blessing and a privilege to be a part of the Jackson Southernaires Gospel organization. He also thanks the Jackson Southernaires for having faith in him as well as his God-given talent for music.
Todd Vaughan
Todd Vaughan, the son of Prentiss and Dorothy Vaughan, was born in Yazoo City, Mississippi May 17, 1980. Todd grew up in the church, and every Sunday he had to be in somebody’s church. During childhood Todd and his sister Dana would often play church at his grandmother’s house, so it is no surprise that he would be in church and playing gospel music. Todd has been playing music since the age of five. The first instrument that he learned was the drums. In 1996, God saw fit to give him another gift, which is playing the piano, his first gift being an ear for music. It has always been Todd’s dream to play for a top gospel group, never thinking it would come so soon. In November 2003, Todd was given the opportunity to play for the Jackson Southernaires, which later resulted in his becoming a musician for the Southernaires in February 2004. Todd thanks God for everything that has happened in his life, and he acknowledges that it is all because of God. He would also like to thank his parents, family, “Jlov” and friends for their support, and for never giving up his dreams. This is just the beginning of greater things to come.
Paul Williams
Paul Williams, aka Huey Paul Williams II, is the son of Huey Williams, Sr. and Mamie Williams, born September 16, 1970 in Jackson, Mississippi. He is also the grandson of the late Leon “Pop” Williams, father of the renowned Jackson Southernaires and the Williams Brothers and Mrs. Amanda Williams. Paul attended public school in Franklin County, but graduated from Crystal Springs High School in Crystal Springs, Mississippi. After graduating from High School, Paul enrolled in Alcorn State University, but decided that he would rather follow after and share in what he envisioned as a successful endeavor with his dad. Paul is married to Sharita Danett Williams and the proud father of three multi-talented children- -Huey “Little Paul”, III, Roderic Devine and Taylor Makallah Genae. Paul is the Bus Driver for the Jackson Southernaires and handles road and travel matters, booking and contracts for the Southernaires. He is the driving force behind the organization of the recording company known as “JS” Records, established before the latest recording of the Southernaires. He is also responsible for helping the Southernaires to realize a long-time dream of recording on their own label. He is the founder of Huey and Huey Entertainment, which is a joint venture of the Southernaires established in 2004, and operated by Paul and Sharita Williams in Smithdale, Mississippi. Paul is proud of the accomplishments that are unfolding for his dad and the Southernaires. He loves his parents, wife, children and siblings very much. He attributes his success, in part, to the support he receives all around from family. Paul believes that love, faith in God, and support of family are linked closely together, and all of them together equals true success. The greatest rewards outside of making it to heaven is seeing happiness and joy among those you love. God makes it all possible.
In The House
The Jackson Southernaires Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
We can feel His Holy Spirit, but we can't see His face
We're living by His mercy, He's given us His grace
God is in this building, I can feel Him all in this place
Right now, He's in the house, He's in the house
Can you feel Him, He's in the house
Moving right now, He's in the house
All down inside of you, He's in the house
Nobody but you, He's in the house
Give it our blessing, He's in the house
Can you feel Him right now, He's in the house
Giving out mercy, He's in the house
Giving out grace, He's in the house
Giving out grace, He's in the house
Listen, there may be one in the building
Haven't been born again
You can feel His Holy Spirit if you just
Stretch out your hand
Stretch out your hand to Him
And ask for forgiveness for all your sins
Don't put off today for tomorrow
We don't know when He's coming again
Right now, He's in the house, He's in the house
Can you feel Him, He's in the house
All right now, He's in the house
He's in the house
God is, He's in the house
Giving out blessings He's in the house
Miracle blessings, He's in the house
Giving out love, He's in the house
Giving out peace, He's in the house
Giving out mercy, He's in the house
He's giving out joy right now, He's in the house
Can you feel it, He's in the house
You're getting in Hey, He's in the house
Get all in your feet, He's in the house
Your feet get right, He's in the house
Make you wanna move, He's in the house
Jump up and down, He's in the house
Get all over you, He's in the house
Make you wanna get your rock on, He's in the house
Nobody but Jesus, He's in the house
Touching and healing, He's in the house
Touching and blessing, He's in the house
If you wanna know where he is right now, listen
He's in the front, back, side to side
Up, up, down, all around, He's in the house
If you wanna know where he is
He's in the front, back, side to side
Up, up, down, all around, He's in the house
Let me say it one more time
He's in the front, back, side to side
Up, down, all around, He's in the house
Can I get a witness anybody
Anybody, He's in the house
You know right now, He's in the house
He's in the front, He's in the house
He's in the back, He's in the house
Ain't it anybody know, He's in the house
He's from side to side, He's in the house
Look up and down, He's in the house
Run all around, He's in the house
The lyrics of "In The House" by The Jackson Southernaires convey a powerful message about the presence of God in the lives of believers and in the physical space of a church or gathering. The song begins with a proclamation that God is present in the building and in that place, despite not being physically visible. It emphasizes the spiritual connection to God through His Holy Spirit and the grace and mercy that He bestows upon His followers. The repetition of the idea that "God is in this building" reinforces the deep sense of His presence that the singers feel.
The chorus of the song repeatedly asserts that God is currently present in the house, inviting listeners to feel His presence and acknowledge His existence in their midst. The lines "Can you feel Him, He's in the house" and "Right now, He's in the house" serve as a call to recognize and embrace the spiritual energy and blessing that God offers to those who open their hearts to Him. The lyrics suggest a transformative experience where individuals can truly feel the presence of God inside themselves and witness His active involvement in their lives.
As the song progresses, it delves into themes of repentance, forgiveness, and the urgency of seeking God's grace. The lyrics urge listeners to reach out to God, ask for forgiveness, and not delay in accepting His love and mercy. There is a sense of urgency in the message, stressing the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of being spiritually prepared for God's return. The song encourages a proactive and immediate response to God's call for reconciliation and redemption.
The repeated references to God's blessings, miracles, love, peace, and joy underscore the abundant gifts that God offers to those who seek Him. The energetic and rhythmic nature of the lyrics conveys a sense of excitement and celebration in recognizing God's presence and the transformative power of His love. The song culminates in a call for witnesses to testify to God's presence and a vivid portrayal of God's omnipresence, filling every corner and aspect of the house. Overall, the lyrics of "In The House" convey a message of faith, repentance, and the profound impact of God's presence in the lives of believers.
Line by Line Meaning
God is in this building, God is in this place
The divine presence of God is felt strongly in this location, emphasizing the sanctity of the environment.
We can feel His Holy Spirit, but we can't see His face
While we can sense the influence and guidance of the Holy Spirit, the physical manifestation of God remains unseen.
We're living by His mercy, He's given us His grace
Our existence relies on God's compassion and forgiveness, which He offers abundantly to us.
God is in this building, I can feel Him all in this place
The palpable presence of God surrounds us in this space, reinforcing the idea of divine connection among us.
Right now, He's in the house, He's in the house
At this very moment, God's presence is tangible within this gathering.
Can you feel Him, He's in the house
Are you aware of His presence that is actively engaging with us here?
Moving right now, He's in the house
God is currently active among us, influencing and guiding our spirits.
All of you, He's in the house
His presence is encompassing each individual present in this space.
All down inside of you, He's in the house
God's essence resides deep within each of us, connecting us to His spirit.
Nobody but you, He's in the house
His presence is uniquely personal and tailored to every individual here.
Give it our blessing, He's in the house
We should acknowledge and offer our thanks for His blessings that are being shared among us.
Can you feel Him right now, He's in the house
Are you currently aware of and receptive to His active presence surrounding us?
Giving out mercy, He's in the house
God is currently extending His forgiveness and compassion to us.
Giving out grace, He's in the house
He is freely offering His unearned kindness and favor to all here.
Giving out grace, He's in the house
His grace is abundant and flowing within this gathering.
Listen, there may be one in the building
Pay attention; there might be someone present among us who has not yet experienced rebirth in faith.
Haven't been born again
There may be individuals here who have not accepted spiritual renewal or transformation.
You can feel His Holy Spirit if you just
If one is open and receptive, they too can sense the movement of the Holy Spirit.
Stretch out your hand
Reach out in faith to connect with God’s presence and gifts.
Stretch out your hand to Him
Extend your willingness and openness to receive from His divine grace.
And ask for forgiveness for all your sins
Approach God sincerely, seeking His mercy and healing from your past wrongdoings.
Don't put off today for tomorrow
Act on your faith now; do not delay engaging with God's grace.
We don't know when He's coming again
The timing of God’s return is uncertain, highlighting the importance of being prepared.
Right now, He's in the house, He's in the house
In this moment, God’s presence is here, encouraging us to acknowledge Him.
Can you feel Him, He's in the house
Can you sense the divine energy that is connecting us all right now?
All right now, He's in the house
His presence is undeniable and immediate in our midst.
He's in the house
God is truly present and stirring among us.
Giving out blessings He's in the house
He is actively distributing His gifts and favors to everyone present.
Miracle blessings, He's in the house
Extraordinary wonders and blessings are being shared in this moment.
Giving out love, He's in the house
God’s unconditional love is flowing freely among us.
Giving out peace, He's in the house
A sense of tranquility and wholeness is being offered to everyone here.
Giving out mercy, He's in the house
His compassion and forgiveness are being shared abundantly within this gathering.
He's giving out joy right now, He's in the house
At this very moment, God is imparting happiness and contentment to us.
Can you feel it, He's in the house
Are you aware of the joy and positivity that His presence brings?
You're getting in Hey, He's in the house
You are being drawn into His presence; experience His invitation.
Get all in your feet, He's in the house
Let your spirit respond joyfully; be active in acknowledging His presence.
Your feet get right, He's in the house
Align your actions to reflect the joy of His presence.
Make you wanna move, He's in the house
His spirit instills a sense of energy and enthusiasm, urging us to respond.
Jump up and down, He's in the house
Express your excitement and joy in reaction to His presence among us.
Get all over you, He's in the house
His presence envelops and saturates everyone here.
Make you wanna get your rock on, He's in the house
His spirit inspires you to feel jubilant and energized.
Nobody but Jesus, He's in the house
Only the presence of Jesus can create such a profound and uplifting atmosphere.
Touching and healing, He's in the house
He is reaching out to restore and mend brokenness in our lives.
Touching and blessing, He's in the house
God is actively bestowing His kindness and support upon us.
If you wanna know where he is right now, listen
Pay attention closely; understanding His presence requires conscious awareness.
He's in the front, back, side to side
God's omnipresence encompasses every part of this place.
Up, up, down, all around, He's in the house
He is truly everywhere in this environment, surrounding us completely.
If you wanna know where he is
Inquire within; His presence can be experienced all around you.
He's in the front, back, side to side
He covers the entire space, from every direction, making His presence known.
Up, up, down, all around, He's in the house
His influence and essence can be perceived in every corner and crevice of this place.
Let me say it one more time
I want to emphasize this point clearly for better understanding.
He's in the front, back, side to side
His presence is approachable and available from every angle.
Up, down, all around, He's in the house
No part of this space is untouched by His love and presence.
Can I get a witness anybody
I invite those who sense His presence to testify to their experience.
Anybody, He's in the house
Everyone present is invited to recognize and affirm His presence here.
You know right now, He's in the house
In this very moment, it is clear that God is among us.
He's in the front, He's in the house
His presence is as immediate and intimate as being at the forefront of our gathering.
He's in the back, He's in the house
Even at the rear, He is equally present, embracing everyone here.
Ain't it anybody know, He's in the house
Doesn't everyone feel the undeniable presence of God here?
He's from side to side, He's in the house
He spans the entire breadth of this gathering, ensuring no one is left without His attention.
Look up and down, He's in the house
Recognize His presence above and below, as He encompasses all aspects of this space.
Run all around, He's in the house
Experience the vibrancy of His presence as it encourages movement and celebration throughout.
Lyrics © O/B/O DistroKid, MELENDO MUSIC
Written by: Huey Williams, Leonard Williams Sr
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Darnell
on God Never Run Short Of Anything
Still Good
Gobro
on Old Rugged Cross
Oh that old rugged cross