Inducted 2007

Born August 1, 1939, in Fresno, CA, Joel Hemphill is a noted singer-songwriter, evangelist, musician, and author. He and his wife, LeBreeska, formed the Singing Hemphills in the mid 1960s, traveling the quartet circuit to much acclaim.  Their concert repertoire primarily consisted of Joel’s own compositions.  The Hemphill patriarch has penned over 350 songs, many of which became Gospel Music classics. His songs included such hits as "Pity the Man," "Not in a Million Years," and "Wait Till You See My Brand-New Home.” 

Hemphill wrote and recorded six #1 songs which include "I'm In This Church," "Good Things," "I'll Soon Be Gone," "It Wasn't Raining When Noah Built The Ark," and "He's Still Workin' On Me," which topped the "Singing News" chart for eight months.  Over a twenty-year period, from 1970-1990, Hemphill had an average #8 song on the "Singing News" Chart.  Other powerful songs penned by Hemphill are: “Master of the Wind,” “Consider the Lilies,” “I Claim the Blood,” and “The Only Real Peace.”

Along with his singing family, Hemphill is the recipient of eight (8) Dove Awards.  Joel has received three (3) BMI Awards of Excellence. 

Hemphill’s television appearances include, The Grand Ole Opry, Crook and Chase, The 700 Club, TBN and Gospel Country. They appeared regularly on the Gaither Homecoming videos and were invited guest at the White House for a Gospel singing when President Jimmy Carter was in office.