I just finished reading
HOW I GOT OVER: Clara Ward and the World-Famous Ward Singers by Clara Ward's older sister Willa Ward-Royster. All that I can say is WOW! It's the compelling, riveting, heartbreaking story of Gospel music pioneer and legend Clara Ward. Clara Ward was controlled, beat, manipulated, taken advantage of and ruled over by her mother Gertrude Ward. Gertrude Ward was a cross between (the late) Michael Jackson's father Joe Jackson and "Mommy Dearest."
Clara Ward became an alcoholic and was stressed out and worked to death, dying in 1973 of a 2nd stroke at the young age of 48.
Clara Ward's story needs to be turned into a movie and/or a Broadway musical.
Clara Ward Singers - Didn't It Rain (1965)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2grTOG97zA
"Swing Low Chariot"- Clara Ward Singers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhrJ8qITUUs
Clara Ward - We'll Soon Be Done
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2802-4kQoA