Essential Gospel – Classic Recordings: No. 139

“Packin’ Up”
Ward Singers
Savoy 4080
1956
[also on Savoy LPs MG14020 and DBL7015]

Quintessential Ward Singers, with the classic lineup of Gertrude Ward, Clara Ward, Willa Ward Moultrie, Marion Williams, Frances Steadman, and Kitty Parham. Williams takes center stage on this track, lofting her signature high whoos up and over the ladies’ energetic, tight harmonies. The highlight is the chorus, during which the Wards sing a quick-tempo, heart-pounding counterpoint to Williams’s soaring notes while a steel guitar delivers a hit-and-run riff. The heavenly combination is enough to scare the devil out of his red smoking jacket.