LOS ANGELES, CA – Randy Sparks, the founder of The New Christy Minstrels, passed away at the age of 90. Sparks, known for giving folk music a big choral sound, was a Grammy-winning artist and a well-known TV star.
Born in Leavenworth, Kansas, in 1933, Sparks was a prolific songwriter and musician, having written hits like “Green, Green,” “Saturday Night,” and “Today.” He formed The New Christy Minstrels in the early 1960s, producing a distinct sound by blending folk music with a large choral ensemble.
The group rose to fame with their unique style and contributed significantly to the folk music genre. Sparks also dabbled in acting and appeared on TV shows like “The Andy Williams Show” and “The Danny Kaye Show.”
Sparks’ innovative approach to folk music left a lasting impact on the industry, and he was admired by many for his contributions. His work with The New Christy Minstrels helped popularize folk music around the world, and his legacy will continue to inspire new generations of musicians.
Sparks was a versatile artist and had a profound influence on the music scene. His passing marks the end of an era in folk music, but his legacy will undoubtedly live on through his timeless contributions to the genre.