Ernie Haase is a name synonymous with Southern gospel music. As the founder and leader of the renowned gospel quartet “Ernie Haase & Signature Sound,” he has left an indelible mark on the genre, captivating audiences with his powerful tenor vocals and his passion for spreading the message of faith through music.
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound: A Musical Journey
Raymond Ernest “Ernie” Haase III, born on December 12, 1964, is an American Southern gospel singer who has made an indelible mark in the world of faith-based music. His career has been nothing short of remarkable, with a journey that has seen him at the forefront of two iconic gospel groups and the creation of his own. Ernie Haase is best known as the tenor vocalist and founder of “Ernie Haase and Signature Sound” since 2002, but his journey began with the legendary Cathedrals Quartet.
Ernie Haase’s musical journey began in the early 1990s when he joined the esteemed Cathedrals, a well-known Southern gospel quartet. His time with the Cathedrals allowed him to hone his craft and gain valuable experience. After the Cathedrals disbanded in 1999, Haase embarked on a new venture by forming his quartet.
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound quickly rose to prominence within the Southern gospel music scene. The group’s distinct sound, characterized by intricate harmonies and spirited performances, endeared them to fans worldwide. Their music conveys the core tenets of Southern gospel: faith, hope, and a deep sense of community.
Is Ernie Haase Married to George Younce’s Daughter?
Ernie Haase’s connection to the legendary bass singer George Younce often raises questions about a familial relationship. Contrary to popular belief, there is no familial connection between Ernie Haase and George Younce. The two shared the stage during Haase’s time with the Cathedrals, but they are not related by marriage or blood.
Ernie Haase’s Journey: From the Cathedrals to Solo Endeavors
In the early 1990s, George Younce, the bass vocalist of the Cathedrals Quartet, witnessed Ernie Haase’s exceptional performances and recognized his rapid growth as a vocalist and communicator. Impressed by his talent, Younce and co-founder Glen Payne invited Haase to join the Cathedrals as their tenor in April 1990. This marked the beginning of a significant chapter in Haase’s career, and his time with the Cathedrals allowed him to hone his craft and become an integral part of the group until their retirement in 1999.
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Following the retirement of the Cathedrals Quartet, Ernie Haase embarked on a solo career for a few years, enchanting audiences with his powerful voice and deep-rooted faith. In addition to his solo performances, he joined forces with Jake Hess, Wesley Pritchard, and George Younce in the Old Friends Quartet from 2001 through 2003.
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound: A New Beginning
After the Old Friends Quartet disbanded due to the ill health of George Younce and Jake Hess, Ernie Haase established the Signature Sound Quartet, Inc. The group was later rebranded by their record label, Gaither Music, as “Ernie Haase and Signature Sound.” This change aimed to leverage the platform of the Cathedral Quartet and Haase’s popularity as their final tenor. The group has since continued to captivate audiences with their unique sound, and their dedication to the Southern gospel tradition earned them their third “Best Roots Gospel Album” Grammy nomination for “Something Beautiful,” paying homage to the Bill and Gloria Gaither song of the same name.
A Touching Family Connection
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ernie Haase’s personal life holds a touching connection to his music career. In 1990, Ernie Haase married Lisa Younce, the third daughter of George Younce, further intertwining the legacies of these two prominent figures in Southern gospel music.
Ernie Haase and the Cathedrals: The Legacy Continues
Ernie Haase’s time with the Cathedrals left an indelible mark on his career. Although he started his own group after the Cathedrals disbanded, he continued to honor the legacy of this iconic quartet through his music and performances. Haase’s contributions to Southern gospel, both with the Cathedrals and Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, have solidified his status as a respected figure within the genre.
In conclusion, Ernie Haase’s journey through the world of Southern gospel music has been marked by dedication, talent, and a passion for spreading faith through song. While many have questions about his personal life and connections to other gospel legends, what remains clear is his commitment to preserving the rich traditions of Southern gospel and sharing them with the world.