Inducted 2002

One of the founding members of the famous Blackwood Brothers Quartet along with his father and two uncles, R. W. Blackwood succeeded in pioneering Southern Gospel into new mediums and into new heights of professionalism. 

Born October 23, 1921, he entered the day-to-day world of Southern Gospel at the tender age of 13. His smooth baritone voice anchored that part of the group's famous sound from its origins in 1934 until his tragic death twenty years later. 

Killed in a plane crash along with bass singer Bill Lyles, R. W. lived long enough to see Southern gospel achieve unprecedented popularity on radio and on the new medium of television.

His pioneering spirit and drive paved the way for the success of modern-day Southern Gospel performers.