Jim Clancy, the legendary Executive Musical Director and founding member of the Vocal Majority chorus, has passed away. He died on April 16 after a year-long courageous battle with cancer. He was 87.

 

A driving force behind the creation of the Vocal Majority in 1971, Jim became its director in 1974 and led the chorus to unprecedented success on the world stage. Under his leadership, the Vocal Majority earned 11 Gold Medals in Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) International Competitions — including an extraordinary run of 10 consecutive wins. This feat stands as a testament to Jim’s visionary artistry and relentless pursuit of excellence.

 

Today, the Vocal Majority holds 13 Gold Medals and is preparing to compete for its 14th this summer, now under the direction of Jim’s son, Greg Clancy.

 

Reflecting on his father's legacy as the director of one of the most decorated choruses in the world, Greg said, “Vocal Majority is the house that Jim built. We will continue to reflect his musicality and artistry, but more importantly, my dad’s values and commitment to the love of music and performance will live on for generations to come.”

 

Jim was also an accomplished arranger, crafting more than 400 songs for the Vocal Majority. His arrangements have been performed by vocal ensembles, barbershop choruses, and barbershop quartets across the globe, leaving a lasting mark on generations of performers.

 

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Judy; son, Greg, and daughter-in-law, Jennifer; step-son K.C. Odom and wife Yuka; his daughter-in-law Genelle Clancy, his grandchildren, McCaa Clancy, Jack Clancy, Liz Walker, Michael Clancy, and Meredith Cox; four great grandchildren; and brother Phillip Clancy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Martha, son, Dave, and sister Jane Debenport.

 

A Celebration of Life for Jim will be on Monday, May 5, 2025 at 2:00 pm. The location will be White’s Chapel Methodist Church, 185 S. White Chapel Boulevard, Southlake, TX 76092. 

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