Linda McCrary is known for a lot of things: her unique voice, infectious smile, and dashing sense of humor, to name a few –– but most importantly, she has a heart of gold. The youngest of ten kids, Linda and four of her siblings sang together often and eventually became The McCrary 5, an R&B/Gospel group from the 1970’s.
As soon as Linda’s parents, Charles and Honey, heard her and her four older siblings harmonizing while washing the dishes one evening, they quickly became their greatest supporters and teachers.
A musician himself, Charles quickly bought a piano and started rehearsing with them. Soon, they were out performing at local churches and events. At the age of twelve, Linda and the group could be seen weekly on the Ted Mac Amateur Hour, eventually winning second place in the national television competition.
At the age of twelve, Linda and the group could be seen weekly on the Ted Mac Amateur Hour, eventually winning second place in the national television competition. Shortly after turning sixteen, Linda and her siblings moved to North Hollywood to work as youth group leaders with the church. They released their first major album “Sunshine Day” less than a year after moving to Los Angeles, which opened many doors to relationships with churches and other notable Christian groups, like Andrae Crouch and Pat Boone. By the late 1970s, The McCrary 5 were opening for The Jackson’s and signed to major record labels including CBS and Capitol Records. Despite their individual pursuits, The McCrary 5 continued to work together as a family even after splitting up.
Linda’s accolades are truly impressive. She has maintained a close working relationship with Andrae Crouch, whom she’s worked with arranging background vocals on albums for Madonna, Michael Jackson, The Lion King Soundtrack, and more. She’s worked with A-list recording artists including Bon Jovi, Chaka Khan, Stevie Wonder, Bet Midler, Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Sandra Crouch. Linda has appeared as a singer on TV sitcoms Mike and Molly, Mom, and The Jamie Foxx show. On top of all this, she has directed choirs for major artists like John Legend, Beyoncé, Michael Jackson, and Common.
Linda’s contributions to MOJA: A Music Saga have been immeasurable. As Choir Director and co-producer, she sings on several tracks throughout the saga, showcasing her undeniably unique, passion and spirit-filled voice.
