A wide array of individuals lent their talents to The Hopper Brothers and Connie throughout the 60s and 70s, including Rex Foster, Steve Hopper, Monroe Hopper, Lee Chilton, Barry McGee, Johnny Parrazzo, Debra Talley, Kirk Talley and Roger Talley.

The 1980s brought a new era for the group, including now being known as simply The Hoppers. The couple’s eldest son, Dean, transitioned from the drummer to lead vocalist, while his brother, Mike, took over the drums while also lending his bass vocal. Steve Keen, Sharon Watts, Greg Bentley and Shannon Childress all spent time traveling with the legendary family group.

In 1957, Claude Hopper began singing with his brothers in Madison, NC. The next year, Connie joined as their piano player, and the group became known as the Hopper Brothers and Connie. In 1961, Claude and Connie married, and thus began the legacy of America’s Favorite Family of Gospel Music.

In the 1990s, Dean married Kim Greene, who became the group’s soprano. This configuration of the group continued for decades, giving birth to songs such as ‘Jerusalem,’ ‘Shoutin’ Time,’ and ‘Marriage Supper of the Lamb,’ among many others. Throughout the years, The Hoppers have had the pleasure of many talented musicians joining them including Denice Hopper, Josh Simpson, Lewis Wells, Jacob Crisp, and Trevor Conkle. In the mid-2000s, Connie began to face health struggles, including cancer, that prevented her from traveling to each concert. At her grandmother’s request, Karlye Hopper stepped in to support on alto.

In 2025, after nearly 70 years of ministry and touring, Claude and Connie made the decision to retire from the road and enjoy life on the farm. Their son, Mike, also decided to step away in order to care for his parents at home. Claude and Connie gave their blessing to Dean, Kim and Karlye to continue forward as The Hoppers, continuing with the calling set before them, while respecting the heritage of music that came before.