Hubbry Logo
Take 6Take 6Main
Open search
Take 6
Community hub
Take 6
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Take 6
Take 6
Take 6
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Take 6 is an American a cappella gospel sextet formed in 1980 on the campus of Oakwood College in Huntsville, Alabama.[1] The group integrates jazz with spiritual and inspirational lyrics. Take 6 has received several Grammy Awards as well as Dove Awards, a Soul Train Award and nominations for the NAACP Image Award.

Key Information

The band has worked with Ray Charles, Joe Sample, Nnenna Freelon, Gordon Goodwin, Don Henley, Whitney Houston, Al Jarreau, Quincy Jones, k.d. lang, Queen Latifah, The Manhattan Transfer, Johnny Mathis, Brian McKnight, Luis Miguel, Marcus Miller, Joe Sample, Ben Tankard, Randy Travis, CeCe Winans, Stevie Wonder and Jacob Collier. All original members grew up in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.[1]

Biography

[edit]

Oakwood College years

[edit]

In 1980, Claude McKnight, older brother of R&B musician Brian McKnight, formed an a cappella quartet, The Gentlemen's Estates Quartet, at Oakwood College (now Oakwood University), a Seventh-day Adventist university in Huntsville, Alabama, where he was a freshman. He auditioned students for the group. While rehearsing in a campus bathroom to prepare for a performance, Mark Kibble heard them singing. He joined the harmonizing, adding a fifth part with them onstage that night.[2] Kibble invited Mervyn Warren to join the group, which performed under the name Alliance.[3] Alliance performed in local churches and on campus with a changing roster of members. In 1985, the lower half of the group (bass, baritone, and second tenor) left after graduating. Alvin Chea, Cedric Dent, and David Thomas joined.[3]

Career

[edit]

The band signed a contract with Warner Alliance[4] in 1987 and changed its name to Take 6 after a search revealed the name "Alliance" was in use. Their self-titled debut album (1988) won Grammy Awards in the gospel and jazz categories[3] and three Dove Awards. They contributed to the film Do the Right Thing and sang on the album Back on the Block by Quincy Jones. They also appeared on Sesame Street and Spike Lee & Company: Do It a Cappella. The band's second album, So Much 2 Say (1990)[3] appeared on the gospel, jazz, and R&B charts of Billboard magazine. The band then signed with Reprise.[4] In 1991, after the release of So Much 2 Say, Mervyn Warren left the group to pursue a career as a record producer and was replaced by Joey Kibble, Mark Kibble's younger brother. The group added instrumentation to their a cappella sound on the album He Is Christmas.[3]

In 2006, the group started the label Take 6 Records; Feels Good, the first album on their new label, was released the same year. In 2007, they recorded with Eros Ramazzotti for his album E². A year later Take 6 released The Standard, which ventured into more traditional jazz territory.

Believe (Sono, 2016), produced by Claude Villani and Ross Vannelli, charted in six categories on Billboard in its first two weeks of release.[5] Iconic (Sono, 2018), produced and arranged by the band, was its first album to chart at No. 1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Chart.[citation needed] The first single was a cover version of "Change the World" by Eric Clapton and debuted on the Contemporary Jazz Song chart in the top 30. The second single, "Sailing", is a cover of the Christopher Cross classic.

Members

[edit]
For more information, see Voice classification in non-classical music.
Members of Take 6 after performance with guest Vladimir Aleksandrovich Savenok at the 2013 NAMM Show in California

Current members

[edit]
  • Claude V. McKnight III – first tenor or first voice (1980–present)
  • Mark Kibble – second tenor or second voice (1980–present)
  • David Thomas – third tenor or fourth voice (former), third voice (today) (1985–present)
  • Joey Kibble  – fourth tenor or third voice (former), fourth voice (today) (1991–present)
  • Khristian Dentley  – baritone or fifth voice (2004–present)
  • Alvin Chea  – vocal bass or sixth voice (1985–present)

Former members

[edit]
  • Mervyn Warren  – third tenor or third voice/first tenor or first voice (song/section dependent) (1980–1991)
  • Cedric Dent  – baritone or fifth voice (1985–2004)

Discography

[edit]

Albums

[edit]
Year Album US US
R&B 		US
Gospel 		US
Jazz 		Label Certification(s)
1988 Take 6 71 41 3 8 Warner Alliance US: Platinum
1990 So Much 2 Say 72 22 8 2 Warner Alliance
1991 He Is Christmas 100 84 — — Reprise
1994 Join the Band 86 17 17 — Reprise US: Gold
1996 Brothers — 71 — — Reprise
1998 So Cool — 92 8 — Reprise
1999 We Wish You a Merry Christmas — — — — Reprise
2002 Beautiful World — — 14 — Warner Bros.
2006 Feels Good — — 10 — Take 6 Records
2008 The Standard — — 6 2 Heads Up
2010 The Most Wonderful Time of the Year — 70 — 40
2012 One — — 15 — Shanachie
2016 Believe — 25 9 2 Sono
2018 Iconic — 9 — 1
"—" denotes that a release did not chart

Live albums

[edit]
Year Album US US
R&B 		US
Gospel 		US
Jazz 		Label Certification(s)
2000 Tonight: Live   — — — — Reprise

Singles

[edit]
  • 1988: "Spread Love" (Reprise)
  • 1988: "David & Goliath" (Reprise)
  • 1988: "Milky-White Way" (Reprise)
  • 1988: "Gold Mine" (Take 6)
  • 1988: "A Quiet Place"
  • 1990: "I L-O-V-E U" (Reprise) (No. 19 Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks[6])
  • 1990: "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" (Reprise)
  • 1990: "Ridin' the Rails" k.d. lang & Take 6) (Sire)
  • 1991: "Where Do the Children Play"
  • 1991: "I Believe"
  • 1994: "Biggest Part of Me" (No. 36 Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks[6])
  • 1994: "All I Need (Is a Chance)"
  • 1995: "You Can Never Ask Too Much"
  • 1997: "You Don't Have to Be Afraid"
  • 1999: "One and the Same (featuring CeCe Winans)" (Reprise)
  • 2002: "Takin' It to the Streets"
  • 2006: "Come On" (Take 6)
  • 2006: "More Than Ever" (Take 6)
  • 2006: "Comes Love" with Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band (XXL)
  • 2006: "It's Alright With Me" with Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band (XXL)
  • 2006: "It Was a Very Good Year" with Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band (The Phat Pack)
  • 2011: "Never Enough" with Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band (That's How We Roll)
  • 2012: "(It Only Takes) One"
  • 2015: "When Angels Cry"
  • 2018: "Sailing"

Video releases

[edit]
Year Title Label Notes
1992 All Access Warner Reprise VHS
2009 Michael McDonald – A Tribute to Motown [Live] E1 Entertainment Guest

Awards and nominations

[edit]

Grammy Awards

[edit]
Year Category Title Result
1989 Best New Artist — Nominated
1989 Best Soul Gospel Performance – Duo, Group, Choir or Chorus Take 6 Won
1989 Best Jazz Vocal Performance – Duo or Group "Spread Love" Won
1990 Best Gospel Performance – Duo, Group, Choir or Chorus "The Savior Is Waiting" Won
1990 Best Jazz Vocal Performance – Duo or Group "Like the Whole World's Watching" Nominated
1991 Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album So Much 2 Say Won
1992 Best Jazz Vocal Performance He Is Christmas Won
1993 Best Jazz Vocal Performance "I'm Always Chasing Rainbows" Nominated
1995 Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album Join the Band Won
1995 Best Rhythm & Blues Vocal Performance - Duo or Group "Biggest Part of Me" Nominated
1996 Best Rhythm & Blues Vocal Performance - Duo or Group "All I Need (Is a Chance)" Nominated
1997 Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals "When You Wish upon a Star" Nominated
1997 Best Instrumental Arrangement with Accompanying Vocal(s) "When You Wish Upon a Star" Nominated
1998 Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album Brothers Won
1998 Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals "You Don't Have to Be Afraid" Nominated
2000 Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album So Cool Nominated
2003 Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals "Love's in Need of Love Today" (with Stevie Wonder) Won
2005 Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals "Moon River" (with Stevie Wonder) Nominated
2009 Best Gospel Performance "Shall We Gather at the River" Nominated

GMA Dove Award wins

[edit]
Year Category Title
1988 Contemporary Gospel Album Take 6
1988 Group of the Year —
1988 Contemporary Gospel Song "If We Ever"
1988 New Artist of the Year —
1990 Contemporary Gospel Song "I L-O-V-E You"
1990 Contemporary Gospel Album So Much 2 Say
1990 Contemporary Gospel Album He Is Christmas
1992 Contemporary Gospel Album Handel's Messiah: A Soulful Celebration
1994 Contemporary Gospel Album Join the Band
1996 Special Event Album Tribute: The Songs of Andrae Crouch (various artists)

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Take 6

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Take 6 is an American a cappella vocal group renowned for its intricate harmonies and fusion of , , R&B, pop, , and traditions. Formed in 1980 at Oakwood College in , the originally began as the Gentlemen’s Estates Quartet under the direction of Claude McKnight and evolved into its current name in 1987 upon signing with . Comprising vocalists Claude McKnight, Mark Kibble, Joel Kibble, Dave Thomas, Alvin Chea, and Khristian Dentley, Take 6 has earned widespread acclaim as one of the most influential contemporary a cappella ensembles. The group's innovative sound, often described by as the work of the "baddest vocal cats on the planet," has led to significant achievements, including ten across categories such as Best Jazz Vocal Performance and Best Gospel Performance, along with ten Dove Awards, two , and a Award. Take 6 has released numerous albums, with notable works like their self-titled debut earning top placements on and further Grammy recognition for albums such as Join the Band and Brothers. Their collaborations span genres and generations, featuring performances with icons including , , , , and , as well as groundbreaking milestones like becoming the first contemporary American musical group to perform in following U.S.-Cuba diplomatic normalization in 2015. Inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2007, Take 6 continues to tour worldwide as of 2025, including symphony collaborations and cruises, maintaining its status as a pinnacle of innovation.

History

Formation and early years

Take 6 was formed in 1980 at in , a historically Black Seventh-day Adventist institution, by freshman Claude V. McKnight III and his classmates as an quartet initially known as The Gentlemen's Estate Quartet. McKnight, inspired by campus musical traditions, assembled the group to perform harmonies without instrumental , drawing from the school's emphasis on within its religious context. Mark Kibble joined shortly after overhearing a rehearsal in a restroom, which the group used for its natural acoustics, expanding the ensemble and contributing to its early sound development. The group's early activities centered on campus performances and regional gospel circuits, where they honed their style through informal dorm sessions and local church events. joined soon thereafter, prompting a name change to to reflect the growing , which by the mid-1980s included David Thomas, Cedric Dent, and Alvin Chea alongside McKnight, Kibble, and Warren. Key influences during this period stemmed from traditions and exposure to vocal groups, including elements and ensembles like the Hi-Los and , blending sacred lyrics with complex chord progressions. These roots shaped their innovative approach, emphasizing tight harmonies and rhythmic rooted in their academic environment. In the mid-1980s, produced early demo tapes that captured their evolving sound, leading to initial attention from the music industry through regional performances and submissions. These recordings, such as a 1986 demo featuring tracks like "Mary" and "Come Unto Me," showcased their gospel-jazz fusion and helped secure interest from labels, though the group retained its amateur status during college. The name persisted until 1987, when a conflict with an existing act prompted the shift to Take 6 upon signing with /Warner Bros., marking the end of their formative student phase.

Breakthrough and mainstream success

In 1987, Take 6 signed with Reprise Records under the Warner Alliance imprint, marking their transition from college performances to professional recording artists; the name change from Alliance to Take 6 was necessitated by an existing group with the prior name. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1988 and featuring the hit single "Spread Love," showcased their intricate a cappella harmonies blending gospel, jazz, and R&B elements. The album achieved Top Ten positions on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz and Contemporary Christian charts. The album's success propelled the group to national attention, earning them two Grammy Awards at the 31st Annual Grammy Awards in 1989: Best Jazz Vocal Performance, Duo or Group for "Spread Love," and Best Soul Gospel Performance by a Duo or Group, Choir or Chorus for the album overall. Building on this momentum, Take 6 released So Much 2 Say in 1990, an album that expanded their sound with original compositions and further vocal innovation, winning the Grammy for Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album at the 32nd Annual Grammy Awards in 1990. Their 1991 holiday release, He Is Christmas, introduced subtle instrumentation while retaining their signature a cappella core, including a notable collaboration with Stevie Wonder on the track "O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings to Zion," and earned another Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Performance, Duo or Group at the 34th Annual Grammy Awards in 1992. These albums solidified their crossover appeal, leading to mainstream television appearances such as on The Tonight Show in 1989, where they performed "I L-O-V-E U," and extensive touring, including their first major U.S. tour as opening act for jazz vocalist Al Jarreau in 1989.[](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=somevideo but use latimes for citation) The group's commercial peak arrived with Join the Band in 1994, released under Warner Alliance, which incorporated guest artists like and , and achieved gold certification from the RIAA for sales exceeding 500,000 units in the United States. This album not only won the Grammy for Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album at the in 1995 but also highlighted Take 6's ability to fuse genres while maintaining broad accessibility, cementing their status as pioneers in contemporary music during the .

Evolving career and recent developments

In the 2000s, Take 6 transitioned from major label affiliations with Warner Bros. to establishing their own imprint, Take 6 Records, marking a shift toward greater creative control. Their 2006 album Feels Good, released on this independent label, blended contemporary gospel with jazz and R&B elements, showcasing tracks like "Come On" and "Family of Love" that highlighted their evolving vocal harmonies. By 2010, the group partnered with Heads Up International (a Concord Music Group division) for The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, a holiday album featuring reimagined classics such as "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" and "White Christmas," which reinforced their seasonal appeal in gospel and jazz circles. As the music industry shifted toward digital platforms in the , Take 6 adapted by releasing s through SRG/Universal, including Believe in 2016, which charted on six lists, and in 2018, their sixteenth studio effort compiling career-spanning arrangements. In 2025, they released the single "Lugar de Paz" featuring Gissela. This period also saw independent production efforts, allowing the group to maintain artistic autonomy amid declining physical sales and the rise of streaming services like and , which broadened their global reach to new audiences. During the 2020-2022 , Take 6, like many performers, navigated restrictions by emphasizing online engagement, though specific virtual concerts were limited; the broader industry pivot to digital streaming helped sustain their catalog's visibility, with streams contributing to renewed interest in their discography. The group's touring resumed robustly post-pandemic, with major international outings including the 46-city "The Summit" co-headlining tour with in 2017, captured for a special that aired in 2018. In 2024, they conducted the "Prelude to Rhapsody" European tour, performing in cities like Amsterdam, Budapest, and Pescara, Italy, drawing fans with sets blending classics and new material. That year also brought recognition through performances at events tied to gospel honors, building on their 2014 induction into the Gospel Music Association's Hall of Fame. As of November 2025, Take 6 continues active touring across the , with scheduled dates including performances at Black Spectrum Theatre Co. in , New York (November 22), Ravinia in (December 3), Birchmere in (December 4), and Keystone Korner in , (December 5–7), reflecting sustained demand for their live shows. While no new full-length studio albums have been formally announced on their official channels, ongoing collaborations and appearances, including the recent single, suggest continued developments in their repertoire.

Musical style and influences

A cappella techniques and vocal arrangements

Take 6 employs a six-part harmony structure that divides vocal roles into leads, supports, and highs, creating a dense, orchestral texture without . This approach allows for intricate chord progressions, often featuring close voicings of seventh and chords that evoke a jazzy sophistication within their framework. Bass lines are provided by the group's dedicated bass singer, utilizing running patterns that mimic upright bass or electric bass grooves, as exemplified in tracks like "." Layered overdubs further enhance this full sound, enabling the group to build rhythmic and harmonic depth by stacking multiple vocal takes. The group's innovative arrangements integrate for percussive rhythms, scatting for improvisational fills, and vocal emulation of instruments such as horns or strings, all achieved through precise breath control and phonetic articulation. These techniques transform singing into a multifaceted ensemble, where voices double as drums, keyboards, and melodic lines to simulate a complete band. In recording sessions, multi-tracking is central, with individual members laying down parts sequentially to establish rhythmic foundations before adding solos and harmonies, ensuring tight and dynamic contrasts. Take 6's arrangements have evolved from their roots, initially rooted in traditional singing learned at , to incorporate jazz improvisation through extended harmonies and pop elements via syncopated rhythms and accessible melodies. This progression blends church-inspired traditions with secular influences, maintaining vocal purity while expanding expressive range. A prime example is their rendition of "Mary" on the Take 6, where tight pitch control in the six-part harmonies builds emotional intensity, and dynamic shifts from soft to powerful crescendos highlight their mastery of vocal control.

Genre fusion and thematic elements

Take 6's music exemplifies a seamless fusion of contemporary Christian with elements of , R&B, pop, , and , creating a signature sound that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Rooted in their heritage, the group incorporates sophisticated harmonies and improvisational flair, alongside the smooth grooves and emotional depth of R&B, while infusing pop accessibility to broaden their appeal. This blend draws inspiration from vocal ensembles like , whose eclectic approach to harmony and rhythm influenced Take 6's innovative arrangements. Thematically, Take 6's lyrics center on , love, and , often drawing from biblical references and personal testimonies to convey messages of hope and redemption. Songs like "Spread Love" emphasize universal love as a transformative force, urging listeners to reject division in favor of , while "" underscores unwavering as essential to spiritual life, echoing Hebrews 11:6. Their rendition of "What's Goin' On," featuring , adapts Marvin Gaye's classic to highlight ongoing social injustices such as and inequality, blending uplift with calls for . Collaborations, such as those with on tracks like "Amen" and "What's Goin' On," further expand these genre boundaries by integrating R&B sensibilities with Take 6's precision, allowing sacred themes to resonate in secular contexts. Critics have lauded this versatility, noting how the group bridges gospel's devotional core with jazz and R&B's worldly sophistication to produce music that is both spiritually enriching and musically adventurous. For instance, reviews highlight their ability to create "dazzling" harmonies that unite , , and without gimmicks, earning praise for unparalleled vocal musicianship.

Members

Current lineup

The current lineup of Take 6 consists of six vocalists who blend , , and R&B in their performances, maintaining the group's signature harmonic complexity as of 2025. Claude V. McKnight III serves as the first tenor and a founding member since 1980, when he formed the group at Oakwood College in , initially as The Gentlemen's Estates Quartet. He provides leadership in the group's artistic direction and has familial ties to R&B musician , his younger brother. McKnight's contributions emphasize spiritual themes and group cohesion, drawing from his early experiences in college ensembles. Mark Kibble, a founding member since 1980, handles multi-range vocals, often leading on lines, and is renowned for his skills, including a Grammy win in for Best Arrangement, Instruments and Vocals on the "Spider-Man Theme" from a collaborative project. His production credits extend to work with artists like Michael McDonald and , while he also offers vocal coaching through workshops and sessions. Kibble's innovative harmonies have shaped Take 6's sound, incorporating jazz and pop elements. Joel Kibble joined as second tenor in 1991, replacing and bringing high-range harmonies that enhance the group's upper register. The younger brother of Mark Kibble, he attended Oakwood College before integrating into the ensemble, contributing to albums like Join the Band (1994) onward. Beyond Take 6, Kibble works as a and vocal arranger for projects in and R&B. David Thomas, who joined as second tenor in 1985, infuses the group's arrangements with jazz influences from his background in improvisational styles and collaborations with artists like and the Yellowjackets. His external work includes session vocals on jazz recordings, adding a swinging, scat-inspired flair to Take 6's live and studio performances. Thomas's tenure has spanned nearly four decades, supporting the evolution from gospel roots to broader genre fusions. Alvin Chea has been the bass vocalist since 1985, providing the foundational low-end that anchors Take 6's intricate harmonies with his resonant, versatile range. His background includes extensive session work on over 100 film soundtracks, TV shows like The Simpsons and Family Guy, and commercials, as well as solo projects such as the album Love's Taken Over (2018). Chea's voiceovers and bass features, like in the group's cover of "The Way You Look Tonight," highlight his technical precision and tonal warmth. Khristian Dentley joined as baritone in 2011, bringing melodic depth to the mid-range vocals and contributing prominently to arrangements on albums like ICONIC (2018), including a featured cover of Norah Jones's "Don't Know Why." A graduate of Oakwood University, Dentley's prior experience in gospel ensembles and solo releases, such as Journey (2008), adds contemporary R&B inflections while preserving the group's a cappella purity. His integration has supported Take 6's ongoing tours and recordings.

Former members and transitions

Take 6's early years at Oakwood College in , were marked by frequent lineup changes as members graduated or pursued other opportunities, typical of college-based ensembles. The group began as the Gentlemen's Estate Quartet in 1980, founded by Claude McKnight, and evolved through name changes to before stabilizing as Take 6 in 1987; during this period, rotating vocalists ensured continuity in performances at local churches and on campus. By 1985, the lineup had solidified with the addition of David Thomas, Cedric Dent, and Alvin Chea alongside McKnight, Mark Kibble, and , forming the core sextet that signed with Warner Bros. and released their debut album. However, the first major transition occurred in 1991 when founding departed to focus on a producing career, citing a desire to explore broader musical production opportunities beyond performing. Warren was replaced by Joel Kibble, the younger brother of Mark Kibble, who brought fresh energy while preserving the group's intricate vocal harmonies; this change coincided with the release of their album So Much 2 Say and marked the introduction of light instrumentation to their sound. Subsequent transitions in the and involved auditions for new voices to accommodate personal commitments and solo pursuits, with the group prioritizing candidates who could adapt to their complex arrangements. In 2011, longtime member Cedric Dent, who had served as and arranger, left to accept a full-time teaching position in music at , emphasizing his academic credentials including a Ph.D. in music; he was succeeded by Khristian Dentley, another with strong production skills, in a gradual handover that allowed for smooth integration. These shifts underscored the group's commitment to maintaining its six-voice structure and familial dynamics. The departures had minimal disruption to Take 6's cohesion, as new members underwent rigorous vocal training to replicate the group's signature blend of jazz-infused , ensuring the sextet's remained intact. Post-departure, built a notable career in film and television scoring, most prominently producing and arranging the soundtrack for Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit (1993), which featured the group's vocals and earned critical acclaim for its gospel arrangements. Dent has continued as a , arranger, and educator, influencing music programs through his academic role and publications on techniques.

Discography

Studio albums

Take 6's studio albums showcase their signature style, fusing , , R&B, and pop elements with intricate vocal harmonies and original compositions. Beginning with major label releases on , the group produced over a dozen studio recordings through 2018, later shifting to independent labels like Shanachie and SoNo Recording Group for greater creative control. These albums emphasize thematic depth, from spiritual introspection to seasonal celebrations, and have collectively earned certifications, including status for several titles reflecting sales exceeding 500,000 units each. The self-titled debut album, Take 6, released on June 1, 1988, by Reprise Records, introduced the group's innovative vocal arrangements, produced by Mervyn Warren and others at studios in Nashville. Key tracks like "Spread Love" and "A Quiet Place" highlight their doo-wop-inspired gospel sound, earning top 10 placements on Billboard's Contemporary Jazz Albums and Top Gospel Albums charts. The album's commercial success helped establish Take 6 as pioneers in contemporary a cappella, blending sacred lyrics with secular appeal. So Much 2 Say, issued in 1990 by , expanded on the debut's formula with a pronounced jazz-gospel blend, featuring production by Warren and guest appearances that added instrumental layers to their vocal focus. Standout tracks such as the title song and "" exemplify sophisticated and rhythmic complexity, propelling the album to No. 2 on Billboard's Contemporary Albums chart and contributing to its gold . This release marked a thematic shift toward personal testimony and social commentary, solidifying their crossover appeal. The holiday-themed He Is Christmas, released October 1991 by , focused on seasonal spirituals and carols reimagined through arrangements, produced by the group with minimal instrumentation. Key selections include "" and "Oh! He Is Christmas," which underscore themes of joy and redemption; the album reached the top 10 on both Billboard's Contemporary Jazz Albums and Top Contemporary Christian charts, becoming a perennial favorite in gospel holiday collections. Join the Band, Take 6's 1994 outing, incorporated broader R&B and pop influences under production by Darryl Phinnessee and the group, aiming for mainstream accessibility while retaining vocal purity. Notable tracks like "My Friend" (featuring ) and "" demonstrate genre fusion, with the album achieving gold certification for over 500,000 units sold and peaking on multiple , including R&B and categories. Its thematic emphasis on unity and perseverance reflected the group's evolving career stage. Brothers (1996, Reprise Records) delved into familial and fraternal bonds through introspective lyrics and tight harmonies, produced by Warren before his departure; highlights include "More Than Ever" and "Wish You Were Here," blending soulful ballads with upbeat grooves. The album maintained strong gospel chart performance and contributed to the group's string of certifications, underscoring their commitment to original material amid lineup stability. So Cool (1998, Reprise Records) explored cool jazz and funk rhythms in a cappella form, with production emphasizing percussive vocal effects; key tracks like the title song and "Jesus Makes Me Happy" fuse urban contemporary vibes with gospel roots, achieving solid sales and reinforcing their independent creative voice as major label support waned. Beautiful World (2002, Warner Bros. Records) addressed global harmony and hope amid post-9/11 themes, produced by the group with a polished, orchestral touch; tracks such as "Beautiful World" and "L.O.V.E." highlight uplifting messages, marking a transitional release with moderate chart success on jazz and Christian outlets. Feels Good, the inaugural release on the group's own Take 6 Records label in 2006, celebrated feel-good anthems and love songs with self-produced vocal layers; standout "Come On" and "David" exemplify joyful energy, reflecting their shift to independence while earning acclaim for artistic freedom. The jazz standards collection The Standard (2008, Heads Up International) reinterpreted classics like "Straighten Up and Fly Right" through pure a cappella, produced by Take 6 to honor influences; it peaked prominently on jazz charts, showcasing their versatility beyond original compositions. The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (2010, Heads Up International), a second Christmas album, featured arrangements of holiday staples like "Christmas Time Is Here," with production incorporating light piano accents; it charted at No. 70 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart, emphasizing festive warmth and vocal precision. One (March 26, 2012, Shanachie Entertainment) focused on unity and singularity in faith, self-produced with tracks like "(It Only Takes) One" and "Set U Free" blending contemporary gospel; this independent effort highlighted their matured sound and sustained fanbase without major label backing. Believe (November 30, 2016, SoNo Recording Group) explored themes of and perseverance through dynamic arrangements, produced by the group; key tracks including "Herd of Angels" and "Can't Imagine Love Without You" drove debuts at No. 2 on Contemporary Jazz Albums, No. 5 on Albums, No. 9 on Albums, No. 25 on R&B Albums, No. 41 on Christian/ Albums, and No. 58 on . Iconic (2018, SoNo Recording Group) paid homage to musical icons with original takes on influences, self-produced and featuring tracks like "Coming Home" and "Mary"; it debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's Contemporary Albums chart, capping their evolution toward self-sustained, high-impact releases.

Live recordings and compilations

Take 6 released their first live , Tonight: Live, in 2000 on Word Entertainment, capturing the energetic atmosphere of their performances at the in , , from October 4 to 6, 1999. The recording highlights the group's prowess through 13 tracks blending , , and R&B, with standout performances including the opening number "If We Ever Needed The Lord Before (We Sure Do Need Him Now)," a swinging cover of Lou Reed's "Walk On The Wild Side," and Marvin Gaye's " (To Be Loved By You)." Audience interaction is evident throughout, with cheers and applause enhancing the communal feel of songs like "() " and "One," demonstrating Take 6's ability to engage crowds with improvisational vocal flair and rhythmic scatting. The album's production, handled by the group themselves with engineering by Jon Gass, preserves the raw excitement of the venue's intimate setting, where fans' responses amplify the vocal layers and elements central to Take 6's style. This release marked a in documenting their stage presence, which had built a reputation through tours and appearances at prestigious venues like , though no audio from those specific concerts has been commercially issued. In addition to live efforts, Take 6 has issued several compilation albums that retrospective their career highlights. The Best of Take 6, released in 1995 on , gathers 10 tracks from their early era, emphasizing gospel-infused hits like "Destiny" and "Spread Love" alongside smoother R&B selections such as "." The collection underscores the group's foundational sound, drawing from their self-titled debut and So Much 2 Say, and serves as an accessible entry point for fans tracing their vocal innovation. The Greatest Hits, issued in 1999 on , expands on this with 12 selections spanning 1988 to 1998, including fan favorites "I L-O-V-E U," "Mary," and "," which showcase their genre-blending appeal and commercial peaks on . This compilation captures the height of their mainstream crossover, with remastered audio highlighting intricate arrangements and thematic depth in songs addressing love, faith, and social harmony. No major reissues or box sets with tour bonus tracks have been released, though digital platforms often feature expanded editions of these compilations with additional live snippets from promotional events. Take 6 also contributed vocals to the collaborative album Raymond Scott Reimagined (July 21, 2023, Violinjazz Recordings), arranged by and featuring Quartet San Francisco and Goodwin's Big Phat Band. The project reinterprets compositions by , known for soundtracks, with Take 6 providing elements on select tracks.

Singles and video releases

Take 6 has issued more than 20 singles across their career, primarily as promotional extracts from , with a focus on , R&B, and contemporary Christian markets. Early standout releases include "Spread Love" in 1988 on , which gained notable radio airplay and helped establish the group's sound in crossover audiences. Similarly, "Gold Mine" from the same year emphasized their harmonic influences and received play on Christian contemporary stations. By 1990, "I L-O-V-E U" from So Much 2 Say became a fan favorite, charting at #2 on the Christian contemporary radio survey and showcasing their rhythmic vocal layering. In the 2010s, the group shifted toward digital singles amid evolving distribution platforms, releasing standalone tracks like "When Angels Cry" in 2015, which blended holiday themes with their signature style. The 2012 single "One," also the title track of their album, marked a return to uplifting gospel motifs and was promoted heavily through online channels. Collaborations in single format include their feature on Kirk Whalum's "Seven" in 2021, featuring Kevin Whalum, which fused jazz saxophone with Take 6's vocals and appeared on Whalum's holiday album. Additional singles include "Let There Be Peace on Earth" (2021) and "Falling" (2021). In 2025, Take 6 featured on Gissela's single "Lugar de Paz," released July 1, blending their harmonies with contemporary gospel elements. Video releases complement their singles, beginning with the 1992 production Take 6: All Access, a behind-the-scenes documentary that deconstructs performances like "Get Away Jordan" and highlights their recording process. Music videos emerged prominently post-2010 via YouTube, including official clips for "One" (2012), depicting the group in dynamic live settings, and "Change The World" (2018) from the album Iconic, which underscores themes of unity through stylized visuals. Additional promotional videos, such as the 2016 live studio session of "Spread Love" on KNKX Public Radio, have amassed hundreds of thousands of views, reflecting the group's adaptation to digital streaming for broader reach. Over five major video projects exist, transitioning from VHS-era releases to online formats that enhance fan engagement.

Awards and honors

Grammy Awards

Take 6 has earned 8 out of 19 nominations since their debut, spanning categories in , , soul, and R&B, reflecting their innovative fusion of harmonies across genres. Their first wins came at the in , marking them as trailblazers in blending with and earning immediate industry acclaim for their self-titled debut album. These early successes established Take 6 as a crossover act, appealing to both faith-based and secular audiences and paving the way for collaborations with artists like and . The group's Grammy achievements highlight their versatility, with wins often recognizing their vocal arrangements and genre-blending productions. At the in 1990, they won for Best Gospel Performance by a Duo, Group, Choir, or Chorus for "The Savior Is Waiting" from So Much 2 Say, underscoring their gospel roots while the album's jazz-infused tracks broadened their appeal. The following year, at the , So Much 2 Say itself secured Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album, affirming their ability to innovate within gospel structures. This period of wins elevated Take 6's profile, leading to high-profile performances and solidifying their role in expanding a cappella's mainstream reach. In 1992, at the , Take 6 received Best Jazz Vocal Performance for He Is Christmas, their holiday album that introduced subtle instrumentation while maintaining core, demonstrating seasonal versatility and sophistication. By the in 1995, they claimed Best Contemporary Soul Gospel Album for Join the Band, featuring guest appearances by and , which showcased their collaborative spirit and rhythmic evolution—though they also faced nominations in other categories like Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group for "," which they did not win. These accolades contributed to Take 6's crossover recognition, bridging gospel with pop and to influence vocal groups worldwide. Take 6's later wins further emphasized their enduring impact. At the in 1998, Brothers won Best Contemporary Album, praised for its sophisticated harmonies and thematic depth on brotherhood and faith. Their most recent group win came at the in 2002 for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals, shared with on a cover of "Love's in Need of Love Today," highlighting their interpretive prowess and R&B crossover. Additional nominations, such as Best Contemporary Album for So Cool in 2000 and Best Performance for "Shall We Gather at the River" in 2009, reflect ongoing industry respect, even without further wins. Overall, these honors have cemented Take 6's legacy as vocal innovators, fostering broader acceptance of in diverse musical landscapes.
Year (Ceremony)CategoryWorkOutcome
1989 (31st)Best Jazz Vocal Performance, Duo or Group"Spread Love"Won
1989 (31st)Best Soul Gospel Performance by a Duo or Group, Choir or ChorusTake 6Won
1990 (32nd)Best Gospel Performance by a Duo, Group, Choir or Chorus"The Savior Is Waiting"Won
1991 (33rd)Best Contemporary Soul Gospel AlbumSo Much 2 SayWon
1992 (34th)Best Jazz Vocal PerformanceHe Is ChristmasWon
1995 (37th)Best Contemporary Soul Gospel AlbumJoin the BandWon
1998 (40th)Best Contemporary Soul Gospel AlbumBrothersWon
2002 (44th)Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals"Love's in Need of Love Today" (with )Won

Dove Awards and other recognitions

Take 6 has won a total of 10 Dove Awards from the Gospel Music Association, recognizing their contributions to contemporary gospel music. These include multiple wins for Group of the Year, highlighting their status as a leading vocal ensemble in the genre, as well as honors for outstanding recordings that blend a cappella harmonies with jazz and R&B influences. Beyond the Doves, the group received the Soul Train Award for Best Gospel Album in 1991 for their album So Much 2 Say, affirming their crossover appeal in soul and R&B circles. They also earned two NAACP Image Awards during the 1990s, along with several nominations in the Outstanding Gospel Artist category, celebrating their role in promoting African American excellence in music. Additionally, Take 6 was honored as New Artist of the Year at the 1989 Stellar Gospel Music Awards, an early recognition of their innovative sound within the gospel tradition. In 2014, Take 6 was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame as a group, joining luminaries for their pioneering work in a cappella gospel over three decades. Members have further received academic honors, such as Cedric Dent's PhD in music theory from the University of Maryland, reflecting the group's scholarly approach to vocal arrangement and performance. Collectively, these 10 Dove wins, alongside the Soul Train, NAACP, and Stellar recognitions, plus the Hall of Fame induction, establish Take 6 as one of the most acclaimed acts in gospel music history, with over 20 major honors that underscore their enduring impact on the genre's evolution and global reach.

References

  1. https://take6.com/bio/
  2. https://concord.com/artist/take-6/
  3. https://gospelmusichalloffame.org/hall-of-fame-inductees-and-honorees/take-6
  4. https://www.christianitytoday.com/1989/07/arts-take-6-takes-off/
  5. https://gospelmusichalloffame.org/hall-of-fame-inductees-and-honorees/take-6/
  6. https://grammy.com/awards/31st-annual-grammy-awards
  7. https://grammy.com/awards/32nd-annual-grammy-awards
  8. https://grammy.com/awards/34th-annual-grammy-awards
  9. https://www.allmusic.com/album/he-is-christmas-mw0000675619
  10. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1989-06-29-ca-3445-story.html
  11. https://take6.com/releases/join-the-band/
  12. https://worldmusiccentral.org/artist-profiles-take-6/
  13. https://grammy.com/awards/37th-annual-grammy-awards
  14. https://blackpast.org/african-american-history/take-6-1980/
  15. https://www.discogs.com/release/5960019-Take-6-Feels-Good
  16. https://www.discogs.com/release/9916637-Take-6-The-Most-Wonderful-Time-Of-The-Year
  17. https://music.apple.com/us/album/lugar-de-paz-single/1819792492
  18. https://www.weforum.org/stories/2020/05/this-is-how-covid-19-is-affecting-the-music-industry/
  19. https://take6.com/
  20. https://take6.com/tour/
  21. https://www.ticketmaster.com/take-6-tickets/artist/733622
  22. https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=4936&context=doctoral
  23. http://www.rivetingriffs.com/Alvin%20Chea%20of%20Take%206%20Interviews%20with%20Joe%20Montague.html
  24. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/take-6-mn0000155563
  25. https://www.nytimes.com/1990/10/14/arts/recordings-take-6-spreads-the-gospel-pure-and-a-cappella.html
  26. https://www.allmusic.com/album/take-6-mw0000195523
  27. https://www.popmatters.com/take-6-iconic-2623060209.html
  28. http://lyrics.christiansunite.com/artist_354.shtml
  29. https://genius.com/Take-6-spread-love-lyrics
  30. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ItB4PJ2xBg
  31. https://www.allaboutjazz.com/the-standard-take-six-heads-up-international-review-by-woodrow-wilkins
  32. https://www.rarb.org/reviews/albums/655-feels-good/
  33. http://www.gospel.it/take6/biography.html
  34. https://www.facebook.com/groups/thespiritofart/posts/31293607440223455/
  35. https://edkeane.com/mark-kibble-wins-grammy-award/
  36. https://www.yamaha.com/artists/joeykibble.html
  37. https://www.facebook.com/groups/783327905145360/posts/3842287355916051/
  38. https://soundbetter.com/profiles/74864-joel-kibble
  39. http://detroitgospel.com/david-thomas/
  40. https://win.jazzitalia.net/articoli/int_take6_2_eng.asp
  41. https://www.tonschreuders.nl/en/take-6-biography?showall=1
  42. https://www.namm.org/library/oral-history/alvin-chea
  43. https://www.flovoice.com/articles/6020320-6-times-you-didnt-know-it-was-alvin-chea
  44. https://mostefinitely.com/2019/04/03/interview-taking-ten-with-take-6s-alvin-chea/
  45. https://www.namm.org/library/oral-history/khristian-dentley
  46. https://www.orangeobserver.com/news/2023/apr/19/ocoee-resident-to-perform-at-this-is-jesus/
  47. https://www.allaboutjazz.com/musicians/take-6
  48. https://www.namm.org/library/oral-history/joey-kibble
  49. https://www.gospel.it/take6/biography.html
  50. https://www.namm.org/library/oral-history/category/take-6
  51. https://www.tuscaloosanews.com/story/lifestyle/magazine/2013/01/18/take-6-headlines-24th-martin-luther-king-jr-realizing-the-dream-concert/29901964007/
  52. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/-emjoyful-noiseem-a-conve_b_1204250
  53. https://delafontagency.com/music-acts/hire-take-6/
  54. https://www.allmusic.com/album/take-6-mw0000195355
  55. https://www.last.fm/music/Take%2B6/%2Bwiki
  56. https://www.allmusic.com/album/so-much-2-say-mw0000690229
  57. https://bestsellingalbums.org/artist/12678
  58. https://www.discogs.com/artist/77354-Take-6
  59. https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-most-wonderful-time-of-the-year/1442838636
  60. https://www.discogs.com/release/13162584-Take-6-One
  61. https://genius.com/artists/Take-6/albums
  62. https://sonorecordinggroup.com/take-6-believe-scores-big-on-the-billboard-charts-during-debut-week/
  63. https://take6.com/releases/
  64. https://www.billboard.com/pro/take-6-iconic-jazz-albums-chart/
  65. https://www.allmusic.com/album/tonight-live-mw0000062426
  66. https://www.amazon.com/Take-6-Live/dp/B00004ST3A
  67. https://open.spotify.com/album/3sVJMQnqVIVnDcQ0zXQsbW
  68. https://www.discogs.com/release/8230509-Take-6-Live
  69. https://soultracks.com/artist/take_6/
  70. https://www.discogs.com/release/2700982-Take-6-The-Best-Of-Take-6
  71. https://www.allmusic.com/album/the-greatest-hits-mw0000243507
  72. https://www.discogs.com/release/3177907-Take-6-Greatest-Hits
  73. https://www.allmusic.com/album/raymond-scott-reimagined-mw0004200573
  74. https://www.discogs.com/master/772435-Take-6-Spread-Love
  75. https://www.musicvf.com/Take%2B6.songs
  76. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vJhM-pS3V4
  77. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZT3tvOQcXI
  78. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0320567/
  79. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBKi4pcvEGY
  80. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbMu70DWLyQ
  81. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tB7D9Hxwc20
  82. https://www.grammy.com/artists/take-6/13130
  83. https://www.grammy.com/awards/33rd-annual-grammy-awards
  84. https://www.grammy.com/awards/34th-annual-grammy-awards
  85. https://www.grammy.com/awards/37th-annual-grammy-awards
  86. https://www.grammy.com/awards/44th-annual-grammy-awards
  87. https://www.thestellarawards.com/1989-winners.html
  88. https://mtsunews.com/dent-take6-hall-of-fame-induction/
  89. https://www.linkedin.com/in/cedric-dent-9955085
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.