Since their formation in 1928, the Dixie Hummingbirds have been one of the most beloved and influential black gospel groups in the world. Key members have included group founder James B. Davis (their leader until his 1984 retirement), dynamic lead singer Ira Tucker (the group's frontman from 1938 until his 2008 death), bassman Willie Bobo, and guitarist Howard Carroll. Although they have focused primarily on the gospel circuit, albums like 1966's GOSPEL AT NEWPORT found a secular audience, and the Dixie Hummingbirds hit the pop charts with their backing vocals on Paul Simon's 1973 hit, "Loves Me Like A Rock."