American musician Randy Sparks, best known as the founder and driving force behind the beloved New Christy Minstrels, passed away at the age of 90 on February 11 in San Diego. His son, Kevin, confirmed the news to The New York Times. Sparks had been residing in Jenny Lind, CA, on his expansive ranch before his demise.
Randy Sparks and his New Christy Minstrels were central to the folk music revival of the early 1960s, garnering widespread acclaim for their harmonious tunes. Their debut album, Presenting the New Christy Minstrels, not only won a Grammy Award but also remained on the Billboard albums chart for an impressive two-year stretch, selling over 2 million copies in their first three years alone.
Randy Sparks – ‘Just Americans’
The group’s 1963 release, “Ramblin’,” soared into the Top 15, earning them their sole gold disc. Hits like “Today,” “Saturday Night,” and “Green, Green” solidified their place in music history. Sparks and future star Barry McGuire co-wrote the iconic song “Green, Green,” further cementing the group’s impact.
Their television appearances, including notable slots on The Andy Williams Show and their own NBC program, showcased their exceptional talent to a broad audience. Beyond the New Christy Minstrels, Sparks nurtured emerging talent through his “farm group” dubbed the Back Porch Majority, which included luminaries like Steve Martin, John Denver, and Kenny Rogers.
Randy Sparks is survived by his children, grandchildren, and sister, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that will be fondly remembered by fans for years to come.
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