Shrine Records

Shrine Records was a Washington DC soul music and R&B record label. Shrine Records was founded in 1964 by songwriter Eddie Singleton and his wife, Raynoma Liles Gordy/Raynoma Gordy Singleton, also known as "Miss Ray," who had previously cofounded the legendary Motown Records with her second husband, Berry Gordy. Its headquarters was a townhouse at 3 Thomas Circle NW, Washington DC. There were a total of 19 Shrine Records singles released, and about six more completed recordings that were never issued. Eddie Singleton wrote many of the songs himself, and the musicians were primarily local Washington acts. Notable artists involved with Shrine included Ray Pollard (who later released material on Decca), Linda Tate, Eddie Daye & The Four Bars, and The Cavaliers. However, none of the Shrine singles were significant hits, and the label ceased operations in 1967. Shrine's stock of unsold records was destroyed in a warehouse fire in the 1968 Martin Luther King riots. As a result, very few Shrine records remain today, and they are highly sought-after by collectors. Recording artist Mable John worked for Shrine circa 1964-1966, between her recording stints at Motown and Stax. The Shrine Records logo was a line drawing of an eternal flame. The label was purchased by Ace Records Ltd. in March 2023. See also Shrine Recordings