Triumphant

Fans first experienced the exceptional four-part harmony of genre leader Triumphant Quartet at Louise Mandrell’s beloved theater in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, in 2003. When they came together to form the group, the four friends realized they had stumbled upon something incredibly special. The acclaimed quartet performed with the legendary Mandrell daily until 2008, when they began touring, taking their polished harmonies to churches, performing arts centers and auditoriums all across the nation. The members credit the country music superstar for helping them perfect their stage presence and pursue excellence at every turn. Twenty years later, Triumphant Quartet remains a quintessential act in the gospel music industry. Consistently voted a fan favorite, the group has garnered multiple chart-topping hits, as well as Dove, Singing News and BMI Awards, including numerous Quartet of the Year honors. Perhaps most remarkably of all, the StowTown Records group has become a household name without experiencing any lineup changes over the past two decades. Now, as Sean Barber replaces original member Scotty Inman, Triumphant Quartet opens a new chapter of music, faith, and friendship as — together with Barber — founding members David Sutton, Eric Bennett, and Clayton Inman enter the next decade of ministry. “When we first heard Sean sing, I remember I leaned over to David and said, “He is a singer’s singer, and he’s a phenomenal musician,” shares Bennett of Barber’s pedigree. “Not only could he sing like a bird, but he had everything we were looking for.” Having spent years both leading worship and singing in quartets, Barber seamlessly fits in with Triumphant’s current musical direction that equally pays homage to Southern Gospel’s rich heritage and acknowledges the contemporary sounds of the day. This unique mix of familiar and fresh is most evident on their two latest releases, God Is Listening and Hymns & Worship. Both titles effortlessly blend reimagined versions of timeless hymns with new arrangements of modern Christian radio hits. Triumphant’s courage to experiment with a more progressive sound initially originated with their children. “Our kids fell in love with CCM when they were old enough to be a part of the youth department at our church,” says Bennett, an ordained minister. “And I thought, ‘If they’re going to love it, I’m going to love it, too.’ This music really touches my soul.” Triumphant Quartet’s bond deepened as their families helped launch Connect Church, a growing congregation in their shared hometown of Sevierville, Tennessee. The church plant has become an integral part of Triumphant’s DNA. It’s a safe haven for the men when they return home and a significant source of community for their families when they’re away. “We started with 30 people, and it’s exploded now. It’s running a little over a thousand every week. And for our community, that’s a big deal,” Bennett reflects. “The prayers and encouragement of our church family are invaluable to us. Our church basically sends us out as missionaries, and that’s a huge blessing to have your church come alongside you and support your ministry.”

Pigeon Forge, TN