Tag: lancaster

A Journey of Faith: Paul Lancaster Journey to The Guardians Quartet

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

TEXAS GOSPEL VOLUNTEER

Life’s unexpected turns led tenor singer Paul Lancaster to join The Guardians Quartet, though the path was marked by both profound loss and divine timing.

Lancaster faced one of life’s most challenging seasons in early 2021 when his wife Michelle passed away after a lengthy battle with cancer. As a newly single parent to three sons, including a 15-year-old who couldn’t yet drive, Lancaster knew his place needed to be at home.

Paul Lancaster courtesy guardiansquartet.com

“I was just kind of an emotional mess,” Lancaster shares. “I had to come home and actually go through the process of falling apart for a while and yet try to be there for my son.”

Through what Lancaster describes as “God’s healing,” he and his family gradually moved forward. His youngest son achieved an important milestone by getting his driver’s licence, marking a step toward greater independence for both father and son.

Just as 2022 was drawing to a close, an unexpected opportunity arose. The Guardians Quartet reached out to Lancaster about joining their group, following founding member Dean Hickman’s departure due to health issues.

“God just threw it in my lap,” Lancaster recalls. “The Guardians called and said, would I like the job. And I’m like, yes, had me at Hello, you know, I love Pat Barker and John Rousey and Scott. And it’s an incredible team and a dream.”

While Lancaster had originally envisioned a different path for his musical career, he sees divine intervention in how events unfolded. “Even though I thought I was going to retire with a book, brothers, that was my original plan. God had other plans and I love it here,” he reflects.
His story stands as a testament to how life’s most difficult chapters can lead to unexpected new beginnings.

Paul is featured in The Guardian’s new song Kick Up My Heels which was added to our music rotation this week on Texas Gospel Canada’s Southern Gospel Stream.

The Guardians’ Transition: Paul Lancaster Takes the Tenor Torch

Published on by Texas GospelLeave a comment

JEFF TURNER

When Dean Hickman, the first tenor and founding member of The Guardians, began experiencing health issues a couple of years ago, he made the difficult decision to step back from touring. After decades of performing, Hickman knew it was time to pass the torch. In his place, the group welcomed Paul Lancaster, a fan favorite, to carry on the tenor legacy.

Paul Lancaster has spoken highly of Dean Hickman’s distinctive sound and the challenge of stepping into such a significant role. “He was not your normal tenor,” Lancaster reflects. “He was the kind I liked though, you know, the smooth and classic kind of in that Jim Murray, you know, kind of feel. I grew up being a big fan of [that], and so it was some big shoes to fill, but I tried to come in and not be a hero but just kind of fall in, and it’s been great.”

Hickman’s tenure as first tenor has spanned over 60 years, a testament to his dedication and talent. While he may no longer be on the road, his voice continues to resonate with listeners, particularly on The Guardians’ newest release, Another Life to Give, where he is featured.

Lancaster’s transition into the role has been seamless, honoring Hickman’s legacy while bringing his own touch to the group’s sound. For The Guardians, the road ahead remains bright, even as they cherish the contributions of their founding member.