A Brief History of The Salem Ridge Quartet

The Salem Ridge Quartet began a little less than twenty years ago as part of an extended ministry of Salem United Methodist Church in Clarksville, TN. After singing a few years around the Clarksville area, the groups' members took time off to focus their efforts on raising their families and ministering through foreign missions. In 1994, two of the quartet's original members, Glenn Tankersley (then the bass singer) and Barry York (lead), reformed the group as a renewal of their commitment to serving God.

The Lord blessed us with Mike Barbee (tenor) at that time. Shortly after, the Lord blessed us again with Stu Griffin (baritone). When Glenn was led into another direction of God's ministry, we were again blessed as Doc Richardson (bass), joined the group not only as a singer, but also took over the vocal harmony arrangements. The newest member, Travis Gotcher (tenor), joined us as Mike Barbee felt called to venture in another direction at the end of 2001. In early 2005, Stu felt it necessary to leave the group for health reasons and Mike has returned to the group, this time as baritone.

Together, there is much versatility in the quartet through their smooth harmonies, balance, excitement, and the rich tone that the Salem Ridge Quartet's audiences have enjoyed over the years. The group shares a love of the Lord and southern gospel music, and is dedicated to lifting praises to Him through their music. Doc and Barry are wonderful songwriters and have provided the quartet with several original songs that God has laid upon their hearts.

Salem Ridge Quartet goes wherever God leads them to share His word. While a large portion of their ministry is in Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky, they have traveled as far as Arkansas, North Carolina, Texas and Oklahoma to sing for the Lord.