Genetter Bradley, gospel singer from Kansas City – Journal of Gospel Music

By Robert M. Marovich

Paul Wenske informed the Magazine for Gospel Music that gospel legend Genetter Bradley from Kansas City passed away a week ago at the age of 82.

A memorial musical will be performed in her honor on Friday evening, July 19, and her funeral will be held on Saturday, July 20, at her church, Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church, 2200 Olive St., Kansas City, MO.

Here is a short biography of Paul:
Sister Genetter Bradley began singing at the age of three with her three sisters, Iola, Leola and Beulah. They performed as the McCluney Sisters. Bradley later toured and performed with groups such as the Staple Singers, The Caravans, Soul Stirrers and many others. She was lead singer of the Kansas City Melody-Aires and helped them get their first recording contract with Simco Records and then Peacock Records. The group’s 1967 album, Night falls quietlyis considered a classic.

The group performed at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City in 1966. In 1974, Bradley was introduced to Recom Records by Shirley Caesar and recorded the album, Going in the right directionwith her own group, Genetter Bradley and the Bradley Singers. She also sang lead vocals with Wings of Grace.

In 1982, Bradley founded the Kansas City Gospel Music Seminar, which ran for 10 years. She was recently featured in the critically acclaimed documentary I’m so happy: Kansas City and the roots of black gospel musicnarrated by gospel composer, arranger and director Isaac S. Cates and directed by Wenske. It is currently playing in selected cinemas.

Please keep Genetter Bradley’s family, friends and many fans in your hearts during this time.