THE ZIONAIRES of Princess Anne, Maryland will celebrate their 56th singing anniversary, beginning February 21, 2010.

During the early to mid-fifties four young men active in Mt. Hope AME Zion Church, formed a quartet named THE ZIONAIRES and began singing together. Like any other organization whose tenure spans for a number of years, THE ZIONAIRES experienced many trials and tribulations; but have survived because they are guided by the word of King David "I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being". Psalm 146:2

The four original members of the group were Dennis Brady, the late Marion Joynes, Hilton Johnson and Edward Davis. Hilton, who served as manager and Dennis were the impelling force that kept the group alive. Prior to his death, Hilton passed the torch on to O. Wendell Brooks to serve as manager. Dennis, Wendell and Jasper continue to give guidance and inspiration to the present members of the group. There are more than 40 former members and musicians.

After 40 years of continuous broadcasting on Radio Station WJDY, THE ZIONAIRES presented their final program on August 30, 1998. Raymond Tilghman, the original announcer and broadcast coordinator for THE ZIONAIRES, retired after twenty-five (25) years of service. After Tilghmans' retirement, Dorothy C. Smith accepted these responsibilities and continued to announce for THE ZIONAIRES. Joy Becoat and Greg Handy also shared in those responsibilities.

In the year "2003" THE ZIONAIRES were involved in several events that enabled them to reach out even more to minister God's word in song.

THE ZIONAIRES headlined the August Quarterly Gospel Festival in Wilmington, DE which is the largest Gospel event in Delaware.

In November 2003, THE ZIONAIRES performed at the Metropolitan AME Church, 58 West 135th Street, New York City where Dr. Bobby Jones of Bobby Jones Gospel Hour introduced THE ZIONAIRES. Dr. Bobby Jones was on stage with them when THE ZIONAIRES closed the service.

On April 19, 2004, THE ZIONAIRES were presented The Volunteers Shining Star Award, for continued appearances, at the Salisbury Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Salisbury, MD.

The Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation contacted THE ZIONAIRES to include them in a project on the Eastern Shore folklore. All of the interviews will be aired on National Public Radio later this year (2004).

THE ZIONAIRES were one of the special guest at the "Smithsonian Folklife Festival" an international event, held at the National Mall in Washington, DC. They performed at The Ralph Rinzler Memorial Concert, honoring Roland Freeman and Gospel Traditions from Maryland and Virginia, on June 25,2004.

October 2004, THE ZIONAIRES performed as special guest at The Ward Museum of Waterfowl Arts, release ceremony of the book and CD, "FROM THE BRIDGE TO THE BOARDWALK", of which THE ZIONAIRES are featured. This project has been submitted to The Grammy Award Nominating Committee, documentary category.

THE ZIONAIRES through music, spread the word of God to radio audiences and sponsors throughout the lower shore of Maryland, Virginia, and Delaware. THE ZIONAIRES have also traveled to New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.

Fifty-six (56) years of ministering with music would not have been possible without the prayers, love, and support of churches, our families and the listening audience. "Our" thanks to all of you for your continuous support.