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For 50 years, The Dixie Echoes have been delivering the gospel message in song across America through their spiritually uplifting music ministry. Considered to be one of the pioneer gospel groups, the Dixie Echoes have returned to their roots singing around two microphones with just a piano. Respected among their peers and industry leaders alike, the Dixie Echoes are recognized as one of the premiere groups in gospel music.

Since the Dixie Echoes formed in 1960, they have released nearly 70 albums and have had numerous top ten singles. They have been honored with multiple Dove award nominations from the Gospel Music Association as well as numerous awards from the Southern Gospel Music Association and the Singing News Fan Awards. The Dixie Echoes have also been honored with three former members being inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame; J.G. Whitfield (1997), Dale Shelnut (2001), and Billy Todd (2009).

The Dixie Echoes have performed throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada at such well-known venues such as the National Quartet Convention, Gospel Jubilee Cruise, The Brumley Sing, Suwannee River Jubilee, Dollywood, Silver Dollar City, and Carnegie Hall as well as churches, fairs, and on television. The Dixie Echoes have appeared on such programs as TBN, INSP and are most notably remembered for their regular appearances on the nationally syndicated television show, The Gospel Singing Jubilee which aired in the late 1960’s and 70’s.

Although each individual presents his own musical styling, the members collectively share the common goal of doing everything they can to expose the audience to the power of a meaningful song. With arguably the best line-up of talent ever, the Dixie Echoes present the gospel message in song with a touch of class and excellence.

Randy Shelnut – has been a member of the group for 40 years. His father, Dale, is credited with bringing the group to national prominence and Randy has continued to keep the Dixie Echoes at the forefront of gospel music. With a lifetime of experience Randy is considered to be one of the finest lead singers and has been honored with multiple Singing News Fan Awards.

Stewart Varnado – has been the Dixie Echoes pianist since 1998. Stewart’s intense dedication to the perfection of his craft has made him one of the best and most popular pianists in gospel music today proving why fans have voted him as one of the top 5 musicians in America for nearly a decade. In addition to his performances on stage, Stewart has become a promoter for several of gospel music’s biggest events including the Gospel Jubilee Cruise, J.G. Whitfield Memorial Sing, Suwannee River Jubilee, and the National Quartet Convention.

Randy Shelnut, Jr. – known to gospel music fans as “Scoot”, began his gospel music career at the young age of eleven. With 20 years of experience to build upon, Scoot is named among the best baritones in gospel music and has been voted by the fans as one of the top 5 baritones in the country on several occasions. As a third generation member of the group, Scoot is proudly carrying on a tradition of class and integrity that has long been synonymous with the Dixie Echoes.

Pat Barker – provides the vocal foundation for the group. Although fairly new, Pat has quickly become a favorite among fans and has been nominated twice in the Singing News Fan Awards. Many people are naming Pat as one of the finest bass singers in gospel music history. Not only can he sing the low notes with the best of them, he is one of few bass singers that can deliver a smooth melodic solo. With an ever humble spirit, Pat sings for the glory of God each and every night.

Wesley Smith – sings tenor and is the most recent addition to the group. In his short time with the Dixie Echoes, Wesley has become a fan favorite and is quickly leaving his mark as one of the greatest tenors to join the ranks of the Dixie Echoes. Wesley’s full-voice is reminiscent of former Dixie Echoes tenors Larry Ford and Bobby Clark. In this tradition, Wesley delivers a commanding performance each time the group takes the stage.

Over the last 50 years God has trusted the Dixie Echoes with the huge purpose of telling everyone they can about Him. To do this He has provided talented men with a dedication to this grand style of music. In the timeless tradition of the Statesmen Quartet and the Blackwood Brothers Quartet, the Dixie Echoes will continue to sing songs in such a manner that no one can miss a single word, not one distraction from hearing what the songwriter wanted to share. And they do it with just four guys and a piano player.