W. B. Nowlin  [1905 – 1994] was one of the most successful promoters of gospel music concerts in America. As a native of Fort Worth, he worked closely with V. O. Stamps (in Dallas) and was very instrumental in booking gospel quartets on daily radio programs in the 1930’s and 40’s. After the end of W.W. II, he began promoting gospel sings throughout the United States, particularly in the southwestern states. He became known for a regular promotion billed as the “Battle of Songs,” an event which placed popular gospel quartets on stage in friendly head-to-head competition. Throughout his career of over four decades, W. B. expanded the influence of Southern Gospel Music and, in 1970, organized the first industry concert in Hawaii. His regular gospel music concert at Will Rogers Auditorium in Fort Worth drew overflow crowds from all across North Texas. He especially loved local Texas groups and became a close friend of Calvin Wills and the Singing Wills Family and was honored by Calvin by a special musical eulogy at his funeral service.