President - William Bagley

 

William Bagley, a native of Darby, Pennsylvania has been an active force in the Philadelphia gospel music scene for many years. His love of gospel music was evident at an early age as he enjoyed listening to the choirs sing at the First Baptist Church of Darby, the church where he grew up and is still an active member.

William’s passion for Gospel Music has led him to sing with and direct many area choirs that have been a blessing to many by sharing the good news of the gospel in song. At the root of his heart and soul is his love for the Savettes of Philadelphia who have been singing for over 50 years. He has been a member for 30 years. William has functioned in a variety of capacities with the Savettes including President, Business Manager, Choir Director and Director of Music. His steadfastness in keeping the group together has led to their current revitalization and upcoming CD release.

In the early 1980’s William branched out on faith and became an integral part of the early years of Sweet Rain Records who brought us a new wave of gospel music that has stood the test of time. Under the tutelage of friend and mentor , the late Lionel Darty , William went on to continue to learn about the record industry and produce more great gospel music across the United States in a variety of enterprises. His most recent effort, which has been a labor of love, is the upcoming release of a joint project with The Savettes and the Victory Choral Ensemble of Philadelphia on the WE 3 Records label where he serves as President. This project is a historic coming together of two of Philadelphia’s finest choirs of all time. This project was born out of the vision which was shared by William’s business partner, Rev. Ralph Benjamin as well as the late Lionel Darty, to bring Philadelphia’s rich gospel sound back to the forefront. It has joined two musical talents together with some of Philadelphia’s great musicians and songwriters such as Harold Thompson, Darren Miller, David Winslow, Bryant Pugh, Freddie Bowers, Thanny Nixon, Al Ingram, Howard Kennedy and Pastor Lenora Young to name a few. Gerald Wesson of the GMWA has provided immeasurable assistance on this project as well. Because it is God ordained, this project reflects the rich heritage of great gospel music that has come out of Philadelphia down through the years and promises to be a blessing to all who hear it.

William is happily married to his lovely wife Therese and has 5 children. His favorite hymn is “Oh To Be Kept”.