Gospel music pioneer Charles Fold dies in Cincinnati.

71 YEAR OLD gospel music pioneer and minister Charles Fold died at his home in Cincinnati on 7th April after a period of illness. The singer musician was best known for his work with the Charles Fold Singers, who played a significant role in the development of the traditional gospel choir sound during the '70s. Working in partnership with the late Rev James Cleveland, the group turned out such hits as "Lord, Let Me Be An Instrument", "This Too Will Pass" and "Jesus Is The Best Thing That Ever Happened To Me". The Charles Fold Singers recorded 14 albums in total.

Later in his career, Fold became a key member in the Gospel Music Workshop of America (GMWA), an organisation founded by Cleveland to help develop gospel music nationwide, eventually becoming president of the Chapter Representatives. Fold was also an active member of his local church, Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist in Cincinnati, where he served as minister of music.