When we first started out, we performed in local towns. After a while, the group s popularity grew and they found themselves traveling farther and farther from their Appalachian roots. We traveled in 35 states and covered 20,000 miles a year, but we d always be back for work on Monday. They slept on the go. They couldn t believe it when we told them there were only five of us.
Time marches on, however, and work in Wayne County got scarce.
The brothers relocated to Detroit, then some of them moved to Texas. But they come back to Wayne County every year. Toney is especially looking forward to seeing his older sister, Erma Toney, when he gets home. At 83, she s a bit frail these days but holds a special place in his affections. We welcome your questions, comments or suggestions .