Wilbur Daniels’ Memorial

On November 4, 2021, we sadly said goodbye to our dear friend and founder, Wilbur Daniels, as he peacefully passed away and joined the Lord. Our affection for him runs deep, and his absence is deeply felt. Nonetheless, The Chordsmen are committed to upholding his musical legacy, bringing forth uplifting and inspiring events for all who participate. Wilbur Daniels, a true icon in the world of gospel music since 1948, was the youngest of seven siblings and grew up in Caruthers, near Fresno, without the luxuries of electricity, phones, or cars. He often humorously remarked, “Give me three!” (Feel free to inquire about the story behind his missing fingers!)

In 1949, he embarked on his singing journey with the Gosepaires and later formed the original Chordsmen in 1955 alongside his older brothers. However, after five years with the group, Wilbur took a 20-year hiatus from music to pursue his passion for piano tuning. During this period, he became renowned for his piano tuning skills and had the privilege of tuning pianos for some of Fresno’s most prominent artists, including Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, the Who, Roberta Flack, the Eagles, and his personal favorite, Nat King Cole.

Wilbur Daniels from 1955- 1976 he directed church choirs filled in for other groups like the Stamps quartet, even two tours with the InkSpots!. In 1978, at age 55 he answered the call and resumed singing. First as a solo act later with a reviewed version of the Chordsmen. He began hosting “Friday Night Sing” in 1996 for about 40 people. Today the “Friday Night SIng” is call “the Power of Gospel!” Today, “The Power of Gospel!” is the best attended regularly-held event of its kind in the western United States! Get the whole story! Pick up a copy of Wilbur’s autobiography “My Story”