Sherman's Biography

Credited with breaking down barriers throughout his career and helping to lead the development of what became known as the Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) scene in the 1970s and 80s, Sherman Andrus has ministered to millions of people around the globe for more than 40 years.

Performing has been a part of Sherman's life as far back as he can remember.  As a young man growing up in rural Louisiana, he began singing as part of his mother's Gospel group.  His talents propelled him to Southern University, where he studied music and developed an appreciation for the many styles one can hear in his recordings.

Sherman has recorded or appeared on more than 30 albums, and his name is familiar to Gospel music lovers from his work with some of the biggest names and songs in Contemporary Christian Music.  As an original member of Andrae Crouch & the Disciples from 1964 to 1970, Sherman was a vital influence on the group's first popular recording, "Without a Song."

In 1971, Sherman broke down both racial and musical barriers by joining the legendary Southern Gospel group, The Imperials.  As their lead singer, Sherman helped The Imperials transform themselves from Southern Gospel to a leading edge CCM group.  His five years with the Imperials is highlighted with a Grammy Award for one of CCM's first anthems, "No Shortage."

In 1978, Sherman, along with Terry Blackwood (another former Imperial), co-founded the very successful CCM group, Andrus, Blackwood & Company.  Over their nine-year run, they became known for their #1 hits, "Jesus You're So Wonderful," "Soldiers of the Light," and "Step Out of the Night."

Through it all, Sherman has maintained a prolific solo career, which has taken his ministry to many disadvantaged areas, including Haiti, Nigeria, Poland, and Indonesia, as well as other venues away from the church and concert stage, like prisons, schools and hospitals.  In addition, Sherman has helped new generations of Christian artists by lending his counsel, songwriting, and singing to dozens of projects.

In 1997, Sherman was invited as part of the Classic Imperials participate in a set of memorial concerts commemorating the 20th anniversary of Elvis's death.  "Elvis the Concert" grew into a worldwide phenomenon which spawned other efforts that continue to this day.

On April 2, 1998, Sherman was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame as a member of The Imperials as well as one of the founding members of Andrae Crouch & The Disciples.  Sherman and his wife Winnie reside in Oklahoma City, and they have one son, Sherman Jr., who lives with his family in Portland, Oregon.