The Commonwealth Quartet was founded in 1993 by Bobby Simpson and officially took shape when he invited Dewayne Harris to sing tenor. Though initially hesitant due to commitments with another group, Dewayne eventually joined. Soon after, Charley Witty (bass) and Gary Martin (lead) completed the original lineup. Since several members lived in Kentucky, they named themselves The Commonwealth Quartet. Over the years, the group experienced only a few personnel changes, welcoming gifted vocalists such as Steve Barbour, Shane Harris, Tom Sammons, Larry Mayfield, and Kevin Sanderson.
In December 2019, the group faced a turning point. Tom Sammons passed away, Kevin Sanderson stepped away due to family health concerns, and Shane Harris retired. With so many changes at once, Dewayne Harris found himself seeking God’s guidance. In sincere prayer, he asked the Lord to either close the door or bring the right people to continue the group’s ministry. What followed was a series of providential encounters as God began to send new members, each uniquely called to fill the vacant roles and continue the group’s legacy.
Today, the Commonwealth Quartet stands as a testament to faith, perseverance, and God’s provision. Through decades of music and ministry, the group remains committed to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ through Southern Gospel music. Their harmonies, heartfelt message, and unwavering mission have continued to bless audiences across the region and beyond, reminding listeners of God's faithfulness through every season.
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Dewayne Harris
The original tenor and founding member of the Commonwealth Quartet. He makes his home in Gallatin, Tennessee with his wife Mara. Dewayne and Mara have three children and ten grandchildren and two schnauzers named Tucker and Tillie. Dewayne has been singing since the age of thirteen, He has sung in revivals, concerts and church services wherever he was invited. Singing in a quartet has been his hearts desire since he was a child. Dewayne has followed quartets since childhood, and many of them have been his heroes.
Curtis Morrison
The lead singer of the Commonwealth Quartet. Curtis brings a rich 50 year experience to Commonwealth. He has had his own group for the past several years. Curtis previously sang in the Yours Truly Trio. Curtis also sang with gospel legend David Reece and the Rangers. Curtis' mother Judy wrote a southern gospel standard made famous by the Kingsmen Quartet, "Child, Child" known all over southern gospel music circles. Curtis has a clear and solid lead that will compliment the quartet. He lives in Clarksville Tennessee.
Bobby SImpson
Rejoined the Commonwealth Quartet. After seventeen years Bobby returned to the group that he and Dewayne started in 1994. Bobby brings a great amount of experience to the group. Bobby started at a young age with the Gospel Five. He then joined the Melody Makers. He was the long time baritone for the Ambassadors of Nashville, where Dewayne first heard him sing. He was most recently associated with Southland. Bobby has a rich, strong baritone voice that you will be sure to enjoy. Bobby and his wife Dana, who is playing piano for the group, have four daughters and 3 grandchildren. Bobby and Dana make their home in Scottsville. Kentucky.
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Richard Harris
Joins the quartet with one of the deepest and strongest voices in gospel music. Richard is a classically trained bass vocalist performing the basso profundo roles in operas. He has been member of the professional choral ensemble The Heimermann Chorale for 4 years and he is a voice actor. Richard had a local quartet with his father many years ago and filled in with the Fox Brothers at one point. He also sang bass on The Grand Ole Opry in the mid 1990's. He has been involved in gospel music for over thirty years. He was a long time employee of the Eddie Crook Company. He was involved with the publishing company, Chesnut Mound Music Group where one of his songwriters was none other than lead singer, Curtis Morrison's mother Judy Morrison. Richard has been involved with Pete Rose Live as the announcer and director of this live theatrical show. We think that you will enjoy Richard's singing as he adds a solid bottom to the quartet. Richard at the present time makes his home in Joelton Tennessee.
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