Arnold Olif Hyles (January 23, 1906 – March 15, 1979)

Biography

Arnold Hyles sang briefly for the V O Stamps Quartet before forming the original Rangers Quartet in 1936. Billed from the outset as “America’s lowest bass,” Hyles had a unique, gruff voice. The Rangers made the most of it by featuring him often. Hyles was crippled in 1951 as the result of a vehicle accident that claimed the life of fellow Rangers Quartet member Erman Slater, but he returned to travel and sing with the Rangers until they disbanded in 1956.

After Hyles passed away in 1979, his family suffered another tragedy immediately after the funeral. While taking the preacher and his wife to the Dallas airport, Hyles’ son Gene and his wife were struck by another vehicle and all four were killed.

Awards

SGMA Hall Of Fame (2004)