The Warrenton Echoes are Warren County, North Carolina’s premier African American gospel quartet. Since the group’s inception in 1957, the Echoes have served as a training ground for North Carolina gospel talent. In the group’s 60-year history, the Echoes have seen many personnel changes, but the mission of the group has remained constant. To “meet the need of the people,” is their creed.
Over the years, the Warrenton Echoes have traveled the gospel circuit around the upland South, bringing their harmonies to communities in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Maryland as well as parts of Washington, DC and Pennsylvania. The group delivers their music to communities through church services, celebrations and quartet contests.
However, the Echoes roots are planted firmly in Warren County, North Carolina. The Echoes current, multi-generational lineup is anchored by original members Roy “June” Foster and James Carter. Previs Foster, June’s son and Echoes member emphasizes their commitment to Warren County. The Echoes sound, “really came from traveling to community churches, to the homes and families in the communities of Warren County.”
The group remains a pillar of the Warren County’s African American community, providing deep knowledge of scripture, close harmonies, and support for families in need. And over their six decades performing, the Warrenton Echoes have grown to be an integral component of Warren County culture.
Produced by Joseph O’Connell, with Evan Hatch and Joy Salyers.
Underwritten by Resourceful Communities and the North Carolina Folklife Institute.
Interview with and performance recordings of Warrenton Echoes by Mike Taylor (NC Folk, 2009).
Visit the Warrenton Echoes artist page
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