Betty and Shirley Turner are sisters who have been singing together with guitars since they were teenagers, primarily at their home church, Epworth United Methodist Church in Epworth, Georgia. They joined Clarkston United Methodist Church in 2008. Steve Parrett has been singing in the choir and solos at Clarkston United Methodist Church since 1980.  Having similar taste in music, the three joined to forma vocal trio in 2009, with Shirley and Steve accompanying on rhythm guitar. They sing country/Southern gospel music, sometimes with a hint of bluegrass. The group played with no name for sometime. As “The Clarkston Trio” began to settle in they were joined by Jon Yoder, whose mandolin and voice added depth to the group.

 

The group settled on the name “Rhythm & Light, ” which has remained ever since. Jon, a seminary student at nearby Candler School of Theology while at Clarkston, left upon graduation and appointment to a pastorate. He does return from time to time for an occasional guest appearance. The trio sings three part harmony by ear, with the lowest voice, Betty, singing melody. which makes for a somewhat unique yet beautiful blend of voices. The significance of the groups name: “Our guitars are the RHYTHM and Jesus is the LIGHT!”