Inducted 1997

J.G. Whitfield organized the Gospel Melody Quartet in 1947 after his service in the Air Force. The group performed throughout Florida and renamed itself the Florida Boys in 1954. "Whit" sang bass and managed the group until 1958, when he retired.

Shortly thereafter, however, he formed the Dixie Echoes, once again singing bass and managing one of Southern Gospel's most active groups. Whitfield's association with the Florida Boys and Dixie Echoes led him into new territory as a promoter of gospel sings throughout the South. 

He was also a prominent player in the origins of the popular television series, The Gospel Singing Jubilee, which served to launch the careers of many of today's top artists. The Southern Gospel magazine, Singing News, was another of Whit's contributions, organized in 1969 to promote his many concerts across the country.