The Guardians Announce the Retirement of Founding Member Neil Uhrig
Nashville, TN (March
11, 2020) – As you may know, Neil Uhrig, one of the founding
members and baritone for The
Guardians Quartet, recently underwent
aortic valve replacement and bypass surgery. He was subsequently forced
to undergo a second surgery to repair one of the bypasses that was leaking, and
further complicating his recovery was an untimely bout with fluid around his
lung. We are pleased to report, however, that he is now well on the road
to recovery. After spending the past few months evaluating his medical
condition, Neil has made the difficult decision to step back from the rigorous
schedule of touring with The Guardians. This has been one of the hardest
decisions of Neil’s life, in that he loves his singing ministry, his travels
with the other Guardians members, and meeting and fellowshipping with other
southern gospel music fans across the country. He has, after all, been
doing this for over 50 years.
Neil's decision to retire has been difficult not only
for him, but for his Guardians Quartet family as well, as they will have to say
good-bye to one of their beloved founding members. Neil has brought so
much to The Guardians—his emcee style and humor, his character and unwavering
love for God, and all the logistical work he did behind the scenes to ensure
The Guardians' success. His presence will be sorely missed by his fellow
members and many fans.
Wayne Haun, co-founder of StowTown
Records, has had the privilege of producing a
couple of The Guardians’ recent projects. Wayne shares, “Neil is probably one
of the smartest guys I know. He’s also one of the nicest guys I know. As an
industry, we have no greater advocate than Neil Uhrig. He has always pushed the
limelight off himself and into the paths of other singers, writers and
musicians. While he greatly deserves some time to put his feet up and relax,
I’m sure he’s dreaming up ways to help us grow. He’s that kind of guy.”
Neil will perform his last concert with The Guardians
Quartet on Sunday, May 17, 2020, at 6:00 pm at the Capital City
Church, 464 Rathmell Road, Columbus,
OH. Please plan to attend for your last
opportunity to hear Neil sing with his buddies.