Inducted 2008

Polly Grimes has pioneered gospel music productions in the Western United States, major entertainment capitals and internationally, beginning in 1960. She was the first to introduce gospel music in major venues on the West Coast, and the first business woman to promote gospel music.

Born in Oklahoma, Polly moved to California at an early age where she majored in music and business, sang as a soloist and with her family quartet, and served as a choir director. She knew early in life that she wanted to make a difference in the world and believed that God had a calling and destiny for her that involved gospel music. 

Her professional entrance into the music world was in the secular world where she organized a trio who performed with various pop artists; one of their songs surfaced on the regional secular music charts. She was involved in the promotion of a number of major hits including, "Young Love." 

However, gospel music continued to be her true calling; consequently, at the appropriate time, she adapted her knowledge and personal experience to the Christian world and started a promotion and production company, GOSPEL CONCERTS. Her first gospel concert was at the Long Beach Municipal Auditorium in 1960, featuring the Blackwood Brothers and Statesmen. She then expanded the concerts in 17 states and internationally. "Introducing gospel music was challenging in California, as people were more secularly inclined than in most parts of the country, and many churches were uncomfortable with the idea of religious music packaged and presented as professional entertainment. We had to define what the music was, get people excited about it, and at the same time cut through misconceptions. However, my vision was so focused I did not take time to dwell on any possible obstacles. This was a time of forging new frontiers and of high enthusiasm; the driving force, was knowing that I was helping to create something new that could bring people both joy and the light of God’s Word." 

She has also presented gospel music at some of the most prestigious auditoriums in Israel, as well as having produced a number of gospel music videos from the Holy Land. She was first to present a gospel music cruise. "It has been a rewarding journey!"