2008
November
Former Florida Boys and Dixie Echoes Bass, Billy Todd, Passes Away
Former Florida Boys & Dixie Echoes bass singer, Billy Todd, passed away this morning (November 30th), after a long battle against alzheimers. Arrangements are still pending. Stewart Varnado has a special "Remembering Billy Todd" page on the Dixie Echoes website: http://www.dixieechoes.com that consists of a brief biography along with many pictures of Billy throughout the years.Please remember the Todd family in your prayers during this time.
Matt Felts Joins Cross 4 Crowns
Matt continues, "I am excited to be a part of this incredibly talented group. It is wonderful to see the hand of God working in these men and it's an honor to be a part of that. I want to thank Monument, most especially Marshall, for the last two years. It was truly a blessing to go and spread God's love to countless thousands at fairs across America. Thank you to all the friends and fans who supported us night after night. I will miss Marshall, Jerry, Daryl and the band greatly but I am excited to begin this new chapter in my ministry."
Former tenor Dallas Rogers came to the group a few weeks ago and said the doctor had put him on complete vocal rest, and he felt it would be best to come off the road for now.
Cross 4 Crowns will be going into the studio shortly after the new year to begin work on their sophomore project with Crossroads Entertainment, so keep listening.
Christmas Tour Featuring The Ball Brothers & Roy Webb Enjoys Tremendous Success
“We are so thrilled with the success of the first week of the Tour,” Daniel Ball states. “We enjoyed crowds larger than any we’ve ever seen. They embraced the music and were so enthusiastic. It was truly a special week.” "I'm humbled at the overwhelming support we have seen on the tour,” Tour co-host Roy Webb adds. ”When we made plans for this last year, we wondered how many people would show up. This has blown away our expectations. We've already re-booked many of these dates for next year's tour."
The Christmas music includes stops in 12 additional cities throughout the next few weeks, concluding on December 21 in Del City, OK. The Tour captures the joy of the Christmas season as both recording artists share songs from their recently released Chrsimas recordings.
A complete schedule, as well as photos from the first week of the Christmas Tour, may be obtained on-line at http://www.theballbrothers.com or http://www.roywebbmusic.com .
Ricky Atkinson’s Grandfather Passes Away
Charlie Tillman Rabon, of Cassett, S.C. passed away Tuesday evening, November 25, 2009. Mr. Rabon, who suffered from congestive heart failure, was the grandfather of Ricky Atkinson."We ask humbly that you all pray for our family during this very difficult time, and especially my mother, Virginia, also, her sister, Brenda, and brothers, C.T. and Virgil, and my grandmother, Jeanette," stated Ricky Atkinson
Viewing: Kornegay Funeral Home in Camden, SC is Friday night from 6-8PM
Funeral: Springvale Baptist Church in Camden, SC is Saturday morning 11AM
Anyone wishing to send cards or flowers please feel free to do so:
Kornegay Funeral Home
1112 Fair St.Camden, SC 29020
The Stutzman Family Is Thankful For God’s Life Story
Just recently the group celebrated their first Top 10 new release for the month of November . The song, “The Story of My Life” is a powerful energetic song featuring Belinda Stutzman. It has radio and listeners buzzing about the sound and the heart of this ministry. The single is from the new album Life Stories produced by Donna Beauvais. The album also includes a special guest appearance by incredible keyboard player and vocalist, Gordon Mote, who tours with the Gaither Vocal Band.
This album was a big leap of faith for this family. They invested a tremendous amount of prayer and faith into it. As a result they are seeing great things from God, but with that have come some challenges. Many of you may have read how this family just went through a head on collision. Although their vehicle was destroyed and much of their equipment, they walked away safe and well. They feel strongly that God has a reason as He writes the STORY OF THEIR LIVES. Their prayer is that these times might help them to grow and also, help them to encourage others to trust in God through the challenges and the victories.
Heather Stutzman (mom and vocalist in the group) shares, ““We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support we’ve received from friends and from the Southern Gospel community. We’ve been flooded with emails from folks who are praying for us and want to help any way that they can. We thank each of them from the bottom of our hearts! We just wanted to let everyone know the latest update. We are all doing fine; our bruises are fading and we won’t need any further medical treatment. The insurance companies are still haggling, but it looks like we will be taking about a $10,000 loss and will still need a vehicle on top of that. So, we appreciate everyone’s continued prayers.”
To learn more about this family ministry, visit http://www.thestutzmanfamily.com
Janet Paschal Releases New Book & Recording During West Coast Tour
The 13-day trip included stops in such cities as Colorado Springs, Albuquerque, Reno, Fresno Sacramento and Phoenix and marked the first extended tour of the West Coast since for Paschal since she was diagnosed with cancer in 2005. “I counted it such an honor to be able to have the opporutnity to look in the faces of the people and personally thank them for their prayers throughout that year-long process,” Paschal stated. “Night after night I met many individuals who are going through that same process. I was so grateful to be able to assure them that they were not in the fight alone.”
Paschal’s new book, Treasures of the Snow, chronicles her battle with cancer and her triumphant story of victory. In addition to the release of the Treasures of the Snow, Paschal’s brand new recording from Vine Records, entitled Treasure, hit retail outlets nationwide on November 18 and is being distributed by Crossroads Entertainment.
The debut single to radio stations nationwide is “Hide Me, Sweet Rock of Ages,” and serves as the follow-up release to Paschal’s most recent Top 40 hit, “I See A Crimson Stream.”
To order Paschal’s new book or CD, as well as obtain a complete touring schedule of the popular recording artist’s concert events, visit http://www.janetpaschal.com
Canaan Classic Added To Christmas Internet Radio
Canaan Records wants to wish everyone a Merry Christmas by giving fans a FREE CD full of Christmas music and other Canaan selections from the Hoppers, Mike & Kelly Bowling, the Mike LeFevre Quartet and Kim Hopper at http://www.canaanrecords.com. After signing up to be a Friend of Canaan, the free music can be downloaded and saved to your computer or burned to a CD by entering the promotional code, “FREEGIFT.” The seasonal giveaway in is conjunction with a special article in the December issue of the Singing News magazine. Emily Higinbotham and Shaun Jackson of Word Entertainment explain the advantages of downloading music and address common misconceptions that will help extinguish the fear of obtaining music over the internet. The complete article is available at http://www.canaanrecords.com .
Also, Canaan Records is offering a free Christmas gift to customers of the Canaan Records’ store at http://www.canaanrecords.com/store from November 1, 2008 until December 31, 2008. Fans can purchase album releases from the Hoppers, Mike & Kelly Bowling, the Mike LeFevre Quartet and Kim Hopper or Canaan’s two-disc retrospective, Canaan Revisited, to receive their free gift. Personally autographed Canaan Christmas ornaments from the Hoppers, Mike & Kelly Bowling and the Mike LeFevre Quartet will be sent free of charge to fans who purchase a combination of two or more of these Canaan Records projects on the website.
November, 18th marked the digital release of Expressions of Love by the Rex Nelon Singers and Sunshine and Roses by the Cathedrals from the Canaan Vault. Canaan’s full album vault releases can be purchased through a number of digital service providers for under $10.00 and single songs can be purchased for around $1.00. Access to purchase and view these new releases can be found by logging on to http://www.canaanrecords.com/vault. More upcoming releases include The Cathedrals’ Something Special (January 20th) and The Happy Goodmans’ The Legendary Goodman Family (February 17th). A special release of Wendy Bagwell’s classic “Here Come The Rattlesnakes” will be released by Canaan digitally and to radio stations worldwide on December 2nd.
Fans can become a Facebook Friend of Canaan and not only receive exclusive updates on release schedules, but audio clips, pictures and more from your favorite Canaan artists as well. Coming Soon titles and a complete release schedule of upcoming old classics from Canaan Records can also be accessed from Canaan’s vault page and Canaan’s Facebook page. Mike & Kelly Bowling, the Mike LeFevre Quartet and the Hoppers also have their own Facebook pages with specific information about their groups. All pages can be accessed through Canaan’s page by following this link: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Canaan-Records/25884114199
Daywind Artists Named Among Gospel Music Channel’s Top Ten Best of 2008
Daywind recording artists, Crabb Revival and Greater Vision, were named among Gospel Music Channel’s Top Ten Best of 2008 among all genres of Christian music. Karen Peck and New River received an honorable mention.Crabb Revival’s recording, Runaway Train, with its diverse musical approach and Country and Southern Gospel flavor, gave them the win in the Southern Gospel/Country category, as well as a spot in the top ten list. Greater Vision, with the album Not Alone, was also among the top ten. Karen Peck and New River’s Ephesians One was recognized as well with an honorable mention for one of the top albums this year. All three groups are listed among successful artists from all genres of Christian music, which makes this quite a remarkable accomplishment. Some of the other artists included are Mary Mary, DecembeRadio, Josh Wilson, Fireflight, and The Afters.
“GospelMusicChannel.com is serious about covering Gospel music in all its many forms,” says Philip Manwaring, VP of Digital Media, “so we couldn’t be more excited about presenting a Top Ten Best of 2008 list which represents the incredible diversity and depth of Gospel music. In particular, Crabb Revival’s Runaway Train showcases not only the exceptional vocal and songwriting talents of the Crabb family, but it also underscores the fact that Southern Gospel as a genre is alive and well with a new generation of Gospel music lovers.”
The listing of all winners and honorable mentions for Gospel Music Channel’s Top Ten Best of 2008 can be found by visiting http://www.gospelmusicchannel.com. Visitors to the site will also have an opportunity to vote for their favorite among the top ten list. Voting automatically enters them into a drawing for a Top Ten Best of 2008 prize package.
To learn more about Crabb Revival, visit http://www.crabbrevival.net , for Greater Vision, visit http://www.greatervisionmusic.com , and for Karen Peck and New River, visit http://www.karenpeckandnewriver.com . For further information regarding the Daywind family of artists, visit http://www.daywindrecords.com
HisSong Scores Third Consecutive Top 20 Hit From On the Way Up
The group’s current hit single, “That’s When God Steps In”, jumped from #23 to #13 in its third month on the chart.
Dennis Humphries of HisSong said, “We are so grateful to radio for getting behind our songs like this. These songs are receiving a very strong reception in concerts, so we’re very excited to see them doing so well on radio too.”
“That’s When God Steps In” is HisSong’s third consecutive Top 20 hit from their Vine Records debut album On the Way Up. The group scored their first Top 5 hit with “I Still Have It All” earlier this year. That song peaked at #2 on the Singing News Magazine Top 80 chart. The first single from the album, “The Grave Can’t Hold Me” peaked in the Top 20 as well.
In addition to reaching the Top 20 on the Singing News Top 80, “That’s When God Steps In” peaked at #2 on the SoGospelNews.com Top 40 Weekly Chart. The song is also at #14 on the GospelMusicTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart and debuted at #51 on the Gospel Music News November Top 100.
In addition to the group’s recent radio success, HisSong received a nomination for Best Live Performer at the 2008 SGN Music Awards. The group performed live at the Awards Celebration this past April.
HisSong recently reached a booking agreement with the Dominion Agency. For more information on how to book the popular trio, log on to http://www.thedominionagency.com or calling (910) 484-6996.
HisSong also has a weekly online newsletter which gives fans of the group information on the ministry and much more.
More information on HisSong can be found at http://www.hissongmusic.com. Fans are encouraged to visit the group’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/hissongministries.
About HisSong
Based out of Nashville, Tennessee, HisSong has already achieved national notoriety within the group’s short lifetime. HisSong was recently nominated for Fan Favorite Artist of the Year in the 2007 SGN Music Awards and Best Live Performer this year. The group has been awarded two Diamond Awards. HisSong’s current single is the chart-topping “That's When God Steps In.”
2009 Diamond Awards Move to Branson Gospel Music Convention
The 2009 Diamond Awards presentation will take place at the inaugural Branson Gospel Music Convention. The awards show will take place on Thursday, July 16, 2009 in Branson, Missouri at the Branson Convention Center. The awards program will precede the Thursday evening concerts and will begin at 6:00 p.m.
Allen Smith said, “We are absolutely thrilled to be part of the first Branson Gospel Music Convention. We also look forward to working with them for years to come.”
“We at the Branson Gospel Music Convention are so excited to welcome the Diamond Awards to what promises to be a wonderful event for all involved,” stated Kelly Burton, Director of Media Relations for YMR Music Productions, the owners and hosts of the convention. “The addition of Diamond Awards fits well into this event, which celebrates the legacy of Southern Gospel and the message behind the music.”
Additional information concerning the 2009 SGN Scoops Diamond Awards, including hosts, sponsors, and performers, will be available shortly.
Initial voting for nominations will be moved from February 2009 to January 2009 due to moving the awards up in the year. More information on voting will be released shortly.
For more information on The SGN Scoops Diamond Awards – visit http://www.diamondawardsonline.com .
More information on the Branson Gospel Music Convention can be found at http://www.bransongmc.com .
About the Diamond Awards
The Diamond Awards were transferred over to the SGN Scoops Magazine three years ago after the original home for the awards, the Gospel Voice Magazine, folded. The Diamond Awards are a fan based award that allows the fans to choose the nominees as well as the winners each year. The awards show is based during the National Quartet Convention every September.
History Repeats Itself, 72 Years Later To The Day With The Chuck Wagon Gang
When asked to comment on this historic day in the life of the Chuck Wagon Gang, bass singer / manager, Dave Emory said, “I think Dad Carter would be amazed to know that the songs, style and sound of the Chuck Wagon Gang has touched millions of people and today is still going strong. I believe it is a testimony to the fact that God had His hand on the Chuck Wagon Gang then and He is still blessing our efforts today as we preserve the sound and take it to a new generation of fans”.
VP of Label Operations, David Staton stated, “We are so proud to represent The Chuck Wagon Gang. They carry on the 72 year musical legacy with honor and class”. The new recording will feature some classic Chuck Wagon Gang music as well as brand new songs. The release date will be early 2009."
Herschel Lester among 2008 SGMA Hall of Fame inductees
“What an honor it is for our family to be ministering for all these years,” said son Brian Lester, who sings lead. “We are so thankful for our father.” Herschel’s daughter Ginger, who sings alto in the family group, said that the induction of her father is awesome honor for their family. “Every time my little granddaughter gets on the stage, I think how proud my dad and our grandparents would be.”
The Lesters, Brian, Ginger, Jenny and Jonathan, appeared to honor their late patriarch singing “I Promise I’ll See You Again” a song that Herschel often performed. Herschel became a second-generation inductee into the SGMA Hall of Fame joining his late father Harvey Bryant Lester.
For more information about the Lesters, visit http://www.thelesters.com
The other 2008 SGMA class of inductees are Polly Grimes, the late Fred Daniel, Squire Parsons, and the late Luther G. Presley, and Ray Dean Reese. Producer, performer Lari Goss was presented the James D. Vaughn Impact Award. For more information about the museum or its inductees, visit http://www.sgma.org.
Woody Wright New CD Available
An all-star band including Gary Prim, Brent Mason, Paul Franklin, Lonnie Wilson, Duncan Mullins, Biff Watson, Buddy Greene, Sam Levine and Channing Eleton give this CD a live band feel. When asked about the instrumentation, Woody said, "I wanted to have that genuine "band" sound. I thought it would be fresh to have a project that could actually be done live with a band as opposed to the big orchestrated, hyper-produced feel that seems to be the norm today. I hope it helps to highlight what I think are the best and most timely lyrics I have ever written."
Woody is currently on tour with Stephen Hill and the 5th annual "Spirit of Christmas Tour" that takes the two popular Homecoming artists this year to over a dozen venues in 6 states.
Order "Turn From The Darkness" and find more information at http://www.woodywright.net
Brandon Andrews Launches Website
Brandon says, "I am thrilled with my new home on the Web. Kimberly did a wonderful job and it's a great way to reach even more people with my music."
For more information about Brandon, please visit http://www.brandonandrewsmusic.com
Dora Pop Returns From South Africa
Dora Pop who released her debut-recording project, Who Am I, earlier this year, has returned from yet another mission trip to Cape Town, South Africa. Pop who was in Hong Kong, earlier this year was joined by a team of 31 individuals from the US in partnership with Brentwood Baptist Church, in Nashville, TN, and was privileged to lead the music and teach Pre-school children at a Vacation Bible School in the shanty township of Red Hill.
"There isn't a picture that I could have taken that would capture what I experienced in South Africa," stated Pop. "Cape Town is a first world city in a third world country and yet there is an overwhelming hope and the Lord truly is at work amongst those beautiful people!" LifeWay's 2008 VBS curriculum, Outrigger Island, was taught containing five biblical truths: God is Real; Jesus is God's Son; Jesus is the only way; the Bible is God's Word; and my actions show what I believe. The BBC team was divided into several teams Construction, IT, Hospice Retreat, Aids Crafts and VBS. The VBS team was divided among four townships in Cape Town: Red Hill, Capricorn, Ocean View and Masiphumelele.
Many of the children in Red Hill have never seen the beach; yet live two miles from the Atlantic Ocean. "These children don't have much of anything but they have faith in the knowledge that God is real and that He loves them. I am living proof that God calls people of every nation to be a part of His kingdom," stated Pop. "Now, it is my turn to tell the story of Jesus to people of every nation." Earlier this fall, Pop began writing for SGM Radio on her travels and her heart for "Every Nation."
Pop began traveling with her ministry full time this past spring. "Open The Sea," a ballad relating to God's ability to perform miracles, penned by Amy Henning, is Pop's current single released to Southern Gospel radio and is being promoted by TS-Promotions.
For more information on Dora Pop, visit http://www.myspace.com/dorapopmusic . For more information on Dora Pop and Every Nation, visit http://www.sgmradio.com. For more information on TS-Promotions, email (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) . For more information on Brentwood Baptist Church, visit http://www.brentwoodbaptist.com
Burress Family Release New CD
The brand new CD has 14 original songs written by group member Tom Burress. Tom says, “The new songs are without a doubt some of the very best that God has allowed me to write in my 35 years of songwriting. There are many different styles of music on this CD anywhere from country gospel, southern gospel, blues, bluegrass, and even a little quartet style. So I definitely believe that there is something on this new CD for everyone young and old. We had such a fun time making this CD and we pray that when others hear it, they will enjoy listening to it as much as we enjoyed making it, and most of all we pray that souls will be blessed, encouraged, strengthened, and those that do not know Jesus Christ as their Lord and savior will come to know him through these songs.”
The CD was also co-produced by Tom Burress along with Jeff Branham of Branham Productions. Along with many of the best musicians Jim Price was the engineer who also engineered artists such as Michael English, The Oak Ridge Boys, Gordon Mote, Jeff & Sheri Easter, Randy Owen of the group Alabama, Mark Lowery, Jessie Dixon, Karen Peck & New River, The Greens, Ralph Stanley, and the list goes on.
The Burress Family has uploaded some songs off of the new CD on their MySpace page and will soon be adding some of their brand new songs on their official website.
For more information about the Burress Family and their ministry go to:
http://www.theburressfamily.com
http://www.myspace.com/burressfamilyministries
The English Family’s Back to Roots Recording Now Available at Christian Retail
Group owner and founder Phillip English said, “We are very excited about this next step in our ministry. We believe in this distribution method and feel it is the future of music distribution.”
Rob Dean, Digital Brand Manager for Integra Interactive said, “We enjoyed what The English Family brought to the table musically, and we knew they would be a high-quality artist to add to our Southern Gospel section. We believe this will help establish the group in areas of the country that wouldn’t normally hear them.”
Integra Interactive is one of the world's largest providers of in-store digital content burning kiosk applications. The company’s myMEDIA BurnBar™ kiosk is the only application worldwide that currently burns on-demand all forms of content: music CDs, DVDs, software titles, video game titles, and audio books.
The company has deployed over 1,500 interactive Software Solutions in over 800 stores. Integra Interactive’s current client base includes stores representing every national/regional chain and more than 70 of the Top 100 independent retailers and a growing number of churches and youth groups.
For more information, visit http://www.integrainteractive.net
The English Family recently scored their first charting hit. The group’s single, “Fresh Manna”, debuted at #90 on the September 2008 issue of Christian Voice Magazine’s Southern Gospel Top 100. The song rose to #78 for the October issue of the chart, and it rose to #49 for the November issue.
“Fresh Manna” can be found on The English Family’s current release Back to Roots. The group also has another single from the album currently impacting radio – “Take It to Jesus”.
“Take It to Jesus” is already seeing strong early reception for the group. The song reached the #1 spot on the RadioActiveAirplay.com chart – reflecting it as the most downloaded song by radio stations. The song has also consistently been charting on the GospelMusicTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart – the only chart in Southern Gospel that is purely based on fan votes.
The newly redesigned English Family website will be unveiled shortly. Until then, visit the group’s current website at http://www.englishfamilyonline.com .
About The English Family
The English Family is a multi-faceted evangelistic ministry based out of Barnesville, Georgia. In addition to being talented in the vocal department, this family is deeply engaged in ministry. The English Family ministers at concerts, conferences, workshops, and even on cruises. The group’s current release is titled Back to Roots and features the #1 RadioActiveAirplay.com song “Take It to Jesus”.
2nd Generation Scores First Top 40 Hit
The trio’s song debuted at #38 on the SoGospelNews.com Top 40 Weekly Chart a couple weeks ago before re-entering the chart this week at #40.
“We are so excited that radio and fans have enjoyed the song so much,” mentioned Brenda Denney of 2nd Generation. “This song gets such a great reception at concerts and ministry events. We have had high hopes for it at radio.”
In addition, “I See a City” is currently sitting at #40 on the GospelMusicTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart – the Southern Gospel industry’s only chart based solely on the votes of the fans.
“We have to say a big ‘Thank You’ to our fans for helping us to get this recognition,” mentioned Elaine Parks of 2nd Generation. “We appreciate the help you are to us through your prayers and support.”
The single is the title cut from 2nd Generation’s sophomore album, I See a City. The song was written by award-winning singer/songwriter Gerald Crabb. The song is being promoted to Southern Gospel radio through the Rick Hendrix Company. “I See a City” is available on Rick Hendrix Company Compilation 60, Cut #3.
I See a City was produced by award-winning songwriter Gerald Crabb for Premier Crabb Productions. The up-and-coming trio recorded vocals at the end of February in Hendersonville, Tennessee at Daywind Studio A.
The new recording features some of Nashville’s most prized studio musicians such as Jeremy Medkiff, Gary Prim, Dan Needham, Adam Crabb, and more. I See a City was engineered by Justin Kropf and was mixed by Trey Corley. The new album features a mix of new material and older songs that have played a major influence in the group.
I See a City is the follow-up to the group’s break-out album, Who Wants to Praise the Lord? That album spawned off the hit singles “Hanging On a Nail”, “When He Chose Me”, and the group’s first Top 80 hit “Trouble Me No More.” I See a City is available to purchase at concerts and other events.
For more information on 2nd Generation – visit http://www.2ndgenerationministries.com.
You can also find out more information about the group on their MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/2generation. The group’s ShoutLife can be found at http://www.shoutlife.com/2ndgeneration.
About 2nd Generation
2nd Generation is based out of the Kansas City, Missouri area. 2nd Generation has appeared at churches, state fairs, Singing in the Sun, Trinity Broadcasting Network, and many other events. Their first project is titled Who Wants to Praise the Lord and features the hit singles “Hanging On Nail”, “When He Chose Me”, and the Top 80 hit “Trouble Me No More.” The group just released their sophomore album, I See a City.
Bev McCann Renews Contract with SSE Group, Inc.
In addition, Bev will receive a newly designed webpage from SSE Design Group.
“We’ve known Bev for a number of years and have worked with her in different aspects of her career the whole time,” mentioned Amy Marie Unthank of SSE Group, Inc. “We’re excited about where her musical career will take her this year.”
Bev McCann said, “We had a great time last year! I appreciate the work that SSE does for my ministry!”
Earlier this year, Bev announced the release of her brand new live DVD. The new DVD is entitled Bev McCann Live and features Bev performing seven of her beloved songs in an intimate setting.
Bev McCann Live was taped in Nashville, Tennessee by David and Diana Thompson of Wells Media. The audio was mixed by Steve Allen (Vestal Goodman, Legacy Five, Gaither Vocal Band) at Square One Studio in Franklin, Tennessee.
The new DVD features all original music written and arranged by Bev McCann. The tracks for the DVD were recorded and produced by Bobby McCallister for Salem Sound in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Visit Bev online at her website at http://www.bevmccann.
Pastors, promoters, and individuals interested in Bev McCann, call (615) 867-6852.
About Bev McCann
A few years ago, God began placing a burden on Bev’s heart to expand her ministry beyond the four walls of our local church and to use music to touch the hurting hearts of His people. Bev recently performed on the historic Ryman stage through her participation in Country Music Association Week. In addition, Bev is an artist advocate for Compassion International.
SN Fan Awards on enLighten
enLighten, heard on Sirius Satellite Radio Channel 67 and X-M Radio’s Channel 34, will broadcast its exclusive, enhanced presentation of the 2008 Singing News Fan Awards this coming Monday evening, November 24th, beginning at 8 PM Eastern, 5 PM in the West, with an encore airing on Thursday, Thanksgiving Day beginning at 6 PM Eastern, 3 PM in the West. For information on all of enLighten’s special programming, visit http://www.sogoradio.comCelebrate Christmas With A FREE CD From Canaan Records
Canaan Records wants to wish everyone a Merry Christmas by giving fans a FREE CD full of Christmas music and other Canaan selections from the Hoppers, Mike & Kelly Bowling, the Mike LeFevre Quartet and Kim Hopper at http://www.canaanrecords.com. After signing up to be a Friend of Canaan, the free music can be downloaded and saved to your computer or burned to a CD by entering the promotional code, “FREEGIFT.” The seasonal giveaway in is conjunction with a special article in the December issue of the Singing News magazine. Emily Higinbotham and Shaun Jackson of Word Entertainment explain the advantages of downloading music and address common misconceptions that will help extinguish the fear of obtaining music over the internet. The complete article will also be available at http://www.canaanrecords.com .
In addition to the first Canaan Vault release, A Classic Canaan Christmas, on November, 18th Expressions of Love by the Rex Nelon Singers and Sunshine and Roses by the Cathedrals were also added to the Canaan Vault. Canaan’s full album vault releases can be purchased through a number of digital service providers for under $10.00 and single songs can be purchased for around $1.00. Access to purchase and view these new releases can be found by logging on to http://www.canaanrecords.com/vault. More upcoming releases include The Cathedrals’ Something Special (January 20th) and The Happy Goodmans’ The Legendary Goodman Family (February 17th). A special release of Wendy Bagwell’s classic “Here Come The Rattlesnakes” will be released by Canaan digitally and to radio stations worldwide on December 2nd.
Canaan Records is offering another free Christmas gift to customers of the Canaan Records’ store at http://www.canaanrecords.com/store from November 1, 2008 until December 31, 2008. Fans can purchase releases from the Hoppers, Mike & Kelly Bowling, the Mike LeFevre Quartet and Kim Hopper or Canaan’s two-disc retrospective, Canaan Revisited, to receive their free gift. Personally autographed Canaan Christmas ornaments from the Hoppers, Mike & Kelly Bowling and the Mike LeFevre Quartet will be sent free of charge to fans who purchase a combination of two or more of these Canaan Records projects on the website. The exclusive ornament can also be purchased by itself on the website for only $5.00.
Fans can become a Facebook Friend of Canaan and not only receive exclusive updates on release schedules, but audio clips, pictures and more from your favorite Canaan artists as well. Coming Soon titles and a complete release schedule of upcoming old classics from Canaan Records can also be accessed from Canaan’s vault page and Canaan’s Facebook page. Mike & Kelly Bowling, the Mike LeFevre Quartet and the Hoppers also have their own Facebook pages with specific information about their groups. All pages can be accessed through Canaan’s page by following this link: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Canaan-Records/25884114199
Hoppers’ Christmas Celebration Scheduled
Joining the Hoppers will be Greater Vision, the Original Hopper Brothers & Connie, humorist Wayne Hopper and saxophonist Dennis Sparks. One of the highlights of the evening will be when the original Hopper Brothers and Connie reunite on stage. Brothers Steve, Will, Monroe, and Claude will be joining Connie as they sing many of the songs from their beginnings in 1956, along with Christmas carols and audience favorites.
“Sometimes it seems like the Hoppers are strangers in their own community, since they spend over 200 days a year away from home, touring,” said Dennis Sparks, booking manager for the legendary group. “This annual event is so meaningful and is always the highlight of the year for the family. This year they are pulling out all the stops. It will be a powerful and inspiring Christmas gala.”
According to Claude Hopper, “We’re especially excited about the anniversary concert and our scheduled guests. We have plenty of surprises in mind for the evening, too. This is an opportunity for us to emphasize our American Christian heritage and thank our many ministry friends for years of support. It’s also a wonderful time to celebrate the Savior’s birth. For the Hopper family, we feel it’s necessary to use this opportunity to reflect on how Christ has actively worked in our ministry and individual lives. We also want to focus on the importance of community and of being with our friends at this special time of year.”
The event will include a full audio/visual program.
“It is our goal that our community will have a warm experience, a great time, and be encouraged during this special concert,” Claude added. “It will be a wonderful blessing to celebrate our anniversary with our home folks. We hope you’ll leave with a smile on your face and the spirit of CHRISTmas in your hearts!”
The Hopper Heritage Foundation is sponsoring the concert phone 336-548-2968, or email (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) for info.
Stutzman Family In Automobile Accident
With all the gloom and doom and bad news of the economy, we sometimes need reminded that God is still in control. We wanted to share a praise with you. While driving home from a concert Monday night, our family was involved in a head on collision. The snowy conditions and slick roads caused an oncoming car to lose control and slide into the path of our SUV and trailer. We swerved for the ditch but were unable to avoid the other car. Our vehicle ended up in the edge of a field sitting on three wheels. The front left tire along with most of the front of our car was scattered on the road about 150 feet back. But praise God everyone involved was able to walk away with only minor injuries due to great American engineering, airbags and most importantly God’s Almighty Hand.
Please keep the young lady from the other car in your prayers. Her foot was injured and she is on crutches; she was also underinsured and is now without a vehicle. As for The Stutzman Family, our car was completely totaled. We aren’t sure how well the insurance will be covering it yet because of her low coverage. We also have damage to our trailer and an undetermined amount of damage to our sound equipment. But, we are alive and know God was watching over us and that is something to get excited about. On a lighter note…the first responders to the crash site looked in the vehicle, asked if everyone was ok, and then said “Hey, is that The Stutzman Family?” You just never know who you’ll run in to (no pun intended). It is good to know we have friends everywhere.
The group can be contacted through their website at http://www.thestutzmanfamily.com
YMR Music Productions Announces iPod Juice as Sponsor for Branson Gospel Music Convention
Tickets On Sale Now!BRANSON, Mo. – YMR Productions is proud to announce the first major sponsor for the Branson Gospel Music Convention. YMR Productions has reached a sponsorship agreement with iPodJuice (http://www.ipodjuice.com), the leading iPod battery replacement company.
iPodJuice is a San Antonio-based company that offers kits allowing people to replace the battery in their iPod in a matter of minutes. They can also replace the battery for customers that would rather outsource the entire job.
Anthony Magnabosco, owner of Milliamp LTD explains, “The iPod batteries that we offer last far longer than the original stock battery that came with your iPod, so you get more playtime for less money.”
iPodJuice is a website owned by Milliamp LTD and specializes in iPod battery kits and services for the Apple iPod and iPhone. Milliamp LTD and the iPodJuice website are in no way associated with Apple Computer, Inc.
More information on iPodJuice can be found at http://www.ipodjuice.com/ipod-mini-battery-replacement-products.htm.
In addition, tickets have now gone on sale at the Branson Gospel Music Convention’s website. Artist Circle seating is $20.00 adults/$15.00 children (12 and under) and $70.00 adults/$60.00 children for the entire week. General admission is $15.00 adults/$10.00 children and $50.00 adults/$40.00 children for the entire week.
For more information on seating and tickets, visit the Branson Gospel Music Convention’s website.
Plans were announced last month for an annual event in the heartland of America. The Branson Gospel Music Convention will be held July 14-17, 2009 at the Branson Convention Center in Branson, Missouri.
Performances by The Blackwood Quartet, The Stamps Quartet, The Florida Boys, The Chuck Wagon Gang, and The Paynes will anchor this multi-day music festival that is sure to become one of the nation's premier Southern Gospel concerts. In addition to these pioneers, the concert will also feature some of the best-known artists from today, as well as some great regional artists from all over the country. Additional artists already confirmed for this year’s convention include Young Harmony, 2nd Generation, Rod Burton, Sunday Edition, Kenny Bishop, Gerald Crabb, and many more.
For more information on the event, visit http://www.bransonGMC.com .
Needhams Welcome Baby Girl
Cracker Barrel and Bill Gaither
Now, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® is pleased to offer an exclusive new CD featuring 12 of Bill Gaither’s favorite hymns that he personally selected to share with Cracker Barrel’s guests.
In selecting the hymns for this Cracker Barrel CD, Gaither chose ones with long-standing personal meaning. “These songs of faith, many of which I fell in love with as a kid, are just as solid and true today as they have ever been”, said Gaither, “and they will keep holding true for the days to come, no matter what the future holds!”
“We know that Bill Gaither is a favorite for many of our guests and so we are pleased to offer this CD as part of our exclusive collection,” said Peter Keiser, Vice President of Marketing for Cracker Barrel. “This new album offers an opportunity to feel all the warmth of a Bill Gaither Homecoming.”
With a retail price of $11.99, the 12-song Bill Gaither’s Homecoming Hymns CD is the latest project in an impressive collection of exclusive music available only at Cracker Barrel.
Gospel music producer/promoter among 2008 SGMA Hall of Fame inductees
“I am so proud to have you here,” she told Beasley. “You (gospel music fans and performers) are the people that have been a part of my family. Most of all I want to thank God, for He is the one who gives the "song" that has touches the hearts and lives of countless people around the world,” she said.
The Triumphant Quartet performed one of her favorite songs: “What a Savior.”
The other 2008 SGMA class of inductees are Ray Dean Reese, the late Fred Daniel, Squire Parsons, the late Herschel Lester, and the late Luther G. Presley. Producer and musician Lari Goss was presented the James D. Vaughn Impact Award.
Mike & Kelly Bowling To Appear On TBN Nov 18
Michael Wayne Smith Releases New Project
Shane had this to say about Michael and the new project, “I have found it to be more than a pleasure to work with Michael. His love for God and the music that he has written has made this project one of my all time favorites. I have personally added this CD to my collection.” He went on to say, “I am inspired by the music that is on this project and am excited to see what God has in store for this new artist. I am sure it will be a blessing to all who hear it and it is my prayer that everyone will get a chance to experience Michael Wayne Smith in the way I have.”
For further information about Michael Wayne Smith go to:
http://www.michaelwaynesmith.com
http://www.myspace.com/mwsmithgospel
Calvarymen Quartet on Gospel Music Today Webcast
The New Plainsmen is the Feature Group, and the program includes singing by Kevin Spencer and Friends, and Mountain Joy, along with Southern Gospel news and concert information, hosted by Ken and Jean Grady.
The Gospel Music Today Webcast is online now at the Gospel Music Today website. http://www.gospelmusictoday.com
The Keetons Release Christmas CD
The Keetons (Dan Keeton Quartet) announce the release of their Christmas CD (Christmas with the Keetons) which includes 11 classic selections. In conjunction with the release celebration comes the "Christmas with the Keetons" Concert Tour. Tour stops include; Danville, KY, Mt. Vernon, IL, Dayton, OH. and Branson, MO.At the event in Branson, Mo. The Keetons will make a television appearance during the Jim Bakker Show 's Christmas Celebration along with Gospel Great, Cee Cee Winans.
There's still time to add your church or event to the schedule. for more information Call 606-262-4718 or visit http://www.keetonsong.com
Gold Harbor Welcomes Jolene Kay
Look for a brand new cd to be released early in 2009 with Gold Harbor. JR Richards states, "This is an awesome talent to come to Gold Harbor and we are so blessed to have Jolene come aboard. She is so powerful as well as softly articulate. She has that voice that is truly a gift from God. Now all the public has to do is soak it up and get blessed. You will have to tell somebody about this Princess that happens to sing country gospel music."
Jeff Treece Band Announces New Website, New CD and New Video
Jeff Treece Band has a new revamped website, a new cd for sale, and a new video for viewing. A "Behind the Scenes" Video Shoot of "God Still Can" has been posted for viewing. Written by Jeff Treece and Todd Martin, the ballad has been chosen to be on the 'Fallen Soldiers Fund' compilation CD. JTB will be on the cd with such artists and Charlie Daniels and Snoop Dog.JTB has released "Love Songs and Not-So Love Songs." The cd includes many of the "different" songs Jeff has written over the years. The CD also includes the comedy/country hit "Housekeeper," you may have heard on your local radio station. The new JTB cd is sure to make you laugh, cuddle, and maybe even cry (from joy and pain). The project is for sale in their online store.
http://www.jefftreeceband.com
WJFJ Hosts “Singing For The Soldiers”
Most importantly a soul was saved during brother Reggies invitation! This is the third such event WJFJ has hosted in Polk County in 2008, collecting over 3,000 pounds and shipping over 1,000 Bibles to our hero's in the sand. Over 250 gospel cds were also collected by WJFJ from various record companies and artists to minister to our troops through song.
New Day Christian Distributors Announce Contest Winners
New Day Christian Distributors recently hosted its second exciting contest with Christian retailers nationwide and it has proven to be another tremendous success. New Day was happy to present three winners with quite a special reward.Worshipmusic.com based in Phoenix, AZ, Karaoke.com based in Baltimore, MD, and Master’s Lighthouse in Manchester, KY were each the happy recipients of one-week stay in Panama City, FL. What deserving rewards for Christian retailers that work so hard each day to bring good Christian music, books, Bibles, and more into the lives of their communities.
Flo Rice of Master’s Lighthouse said that she had never had the opportunity to win something like this. She was very excited as she shared, “In addition to owning a Christian bookstore, I drive a school bus. Because of the busy schedule, my husband and I have not had much opportunity for a vacation. This wonderful surprise will allow us to take a vacation! I am planning it around my husband’s birthday to make it extra special for both of us.”
New Day Christian Distributors, Inc. has been a thriving business for more than 25 years. Company owner, Dottie Leonard Miller states, “New Day would like to congratulate each of the winners. We hope they have a great time in Panama City!”
New Day Christian Distributors, Inc. distributes music and products worldwide. Retailers can learn more about New Day and this contest at http://www.newdaychristian.com
Telestials New Single Moves Up Fan Voted Chart
The group’s current single – “What A Savior, What A Friend” – is at the #6 spot on the GospelMusicTimes.com Top 40 Chart this week. The GospelMusicTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart is the Southern Gospel industry’s only chart that is based solely on the votes of the fans.
Beth Glass of The Telestials said, “Lyrics of songs can be so complex. Sometimes we try to make our words so intellectual, but this song is so simple yet it speaks volumes. A very tender song of hope, of how we can depend on Jesus in the most trying of times. Of all the songs we sing this one encourages me the most.”
“What A Savior, What A Friend” was produced by Michael Sykes and is found on their latest album – I Can Call Jesus, which is set to release this month.
The Telestials are currently preparing to release another single set to hit radio in 09.
Check out more information on the group by visiting http://www.telestials.com. You can also visit the group’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/telestials
Dove Brothers Announce Details for 7th Annual Homecoming Weekend
The Dove Brothers will once again be hosting the Dixie Melody Boys and Jerry DeLawder as well as the world famous Chuck Wagon Gang on Friday evening, February 6, 2009.
On Saturday evening, February 7, 2009, the Dove Brothers will be hosting the We Are Family Tour featuring Jeff & Sheri Easter, The Lewis Family, and the Easter Brothers. The Dove Brothers will be performing each night as well.
McCray Dove said, “Our Homecoming is a very special weekend for our group. We are very excited about the groups that we are bringing in this year, and we know that our fans will be pleased with the talent. We hope everyone can make it out for this event!”
The event’s ticket prices range from $15.00 to $20.00 as well as discount pricing for multiple-day passes and advance ticket sales. Article Circle ticket holders will receive a free dinner, a meet and greet with the Dove Bothers, and a special private concert on Saturday.
The concert begins at 7:00 p.m. on Friday and 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. Doors will open an hour before each concert.
Tickets can be purchased at various retail establishments around the Elizabethtown/Bladenboro, NC area. For more information – call (910) 863-3808.
For more information on the 7th Annual Homecoming Weekend, visit the Dove Brothers’ website at http://www.dovebrothersquartet.com .
The Dove Brothers recently received special recognition from the Southeaster Firefighter’s Burn Foundation this past weekend. On Saturday, September 27, 2008, the Dove Brothers were named the Ambassadors of the Southeastern Firefighter’s Burn Foundation for their support in raising funds for the organization, and the group received a plaque in honor of the title.
More information on the Dove Brothers can be found at http://dovebrothersquartet.com
About the Dove Brothers
Voted Favorite Male Quartet of The Year by the Southern Gospel Music Association and the Singing News Fan Awards, the Dove Brothers’ high energy presentation and progressive arrangements reflect a tangible link to the good old days of gospel music. Their peers regard them as a class act representing the industry with dignity and respect. Their latest recording for Sonlite Records is entitled Life and spawned off the #1 hits “You Don’t Know God’s Love” and “You Would Think He Would Learn. According to SoGospelNews.com, the Dove Brothers were the most played artist at radio in 2007.
Amazed Renews Publicity Contract with SSE
Tamie Perkins of Amazed said, “We can’t imagine our ministry without SSE behind us. They have been such an asset to our ministry over the last couple of years.”
“You won’t find a sweeter group in Southern Gospel music than Amazed,” mentioned Amy Marie Unthank of SSE Group, Inc. “These ladies are super talented and have a real heart for ministry.”
“SSE has been amazing,” mentioned Cathie Marsh of Amazed. “We love them like family. We know this is going to be another great year with the company.”
Amazed has had a great year in 2008. The duo was awarded their first SGN Music Award in April of this year. The group won Female Group of the Year and performed at the ceremony.
In addition, Amazed received two Diamond Award nominations this year. The group was nominated for Duet of the Year (an award they won in 2005 and 2007) as well as Song of the Year (for their hit single “Even On Monday”).
The popular duo is currently in the planning stages of a new recording. More information on that will be forthcoming.
For more information on Amazed, please visit http://amazedministries.com. Fans are encouraged to visit the duo’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/amazedgospel.
About Amazed
Amazed is based out of North Texas. The duo, consisting of Cathie Marsh and Tamie Perkins, was established in the year 2000 with a simple song, two willing souls, and a Mighty God who had a plan far greater than anyone imagined. The popular duo’s third release, Just Getting Started, earned them their second Diamond Award for “Duet of the Year” as well as “Female Group of the Year” (SGN Music Awards) in 2008.
About Southern Spin Entertainment
Southern Spin Entertainment is one of three divisions of the 501c non-profit organization SSE Group, Inc. Southern Spin Entertainment focuses on publicity and marketing for Southern and Country Gospel artists. The company currently represents artists, organizations, industries, and companies in all genres of Gospel music.
For more information on Southern Spin Entertainment, go to http://www.southernspin.com .
SSE Group’s three divisions include Southern Spin Entertainment, SSE Design Group, and Southern Spin Radio. SSE Group currently owns and operates Glorious Creations and TheBridgeLive.net.
For more information on SSE Group, go to http://www.ssegrouponline.com.
Ball Brothers & Roy Webb Set To Begin Christmas Tour With Concert Events In 15 Cities
Throughout the 2008 Holiday season, The Ball Brothers and pianist, Roy Webb will unite to present more than a dozen Christmas concert events. The 15-city tour kicks off November 20 in Centralia, MO, and will conclude on December 21 in Del City, OK. Tour stops throughout the month-long event include such cities as Fremont, MI, Jerseyville, IL, Evans, GA, York, SC, Chambersburg, PA, Baltimore, MD, Benton, AR, and Mt Pulaski, IL, as well as Chickamauga, GA, hometown of The Ball Brothers.Southern Gospel Music lovers were first introduced to the The Ball Brothers during the summer of 2006 when the brothers toured throughout the country with Ernie Haase & Signature Sound. During the Tour, the Brothers had the opportunity to become friends with Roy Webb, who served as pianist for Signature Sound. Throughout the next month, The Ball Brothers are looking forward to once again sharing the stage with Webb to create a dynamic combination that truly captures the joy of the Christmas season. “Fans attending this Christmas event can expect the unexpected,” Daniel Ball says with a big smile. “We have learned 20 new and classic Christmas songs and have spiced them up with our own unique arrangements. We’ve been working on this recording and planning this Tour for a year now, and we can’t believe it’s finally here.”
Both The Ball Brothers and Webb are releasing Christmas recordings just in time for the Holiday season, and are excited to have the opportunity to showcase those songs during this Tour. “Christmas is such an exciting time,” Webb states. “I can’t wait to visit these cities with The Ball Brothers. I’m sure we’re seeing the makings of what will become annual events for some years to come.”
Each Christmas Tour stop promises to offer something for the entire family. “Christmas time for us growing up was something very special in our family,” Andrew Ball remembers. “We would listen to Christmas music passed down through the generations. We loved all the different musical styles that came to life during the Holiday season. That musical diversity is what we want to bring to the Christmas Tour. We’ll cover many styles and end up at the place where our family always was on Christmas morning: remembering the Birth of our Savior and the reason for the celebration.”
A complete schedule of the Christmas Spectacular Tour presented by The Ball Brothers and Roy Webb, as well as specific information for each concert may be obtained at http://www.theballbrothers.com
Canaan To Offer Free Christmas Gift On Website And Announce New Canaan Vault Releases
Last month, the Canaan Records’ vault ( http://www.canaanrecords.com/vault ) was officially opened with the digital release of A Classic Canaan Christmas. This previously released LP features classic Christmas tunes recorded by Southern Gospel greats such as The Rex Nelon Singers, The Florida Boys, The Lewis Family, The Happy Goodmans, The Inspirations and others. On November, 18th, Expressions of Love by the Rex Nelon Singers and Sunshine and Roses by the Cathedrals will be digitally released from the Canaan vault. More upcoming releases include The Cathedrals’ Something Special (January 20th) and The Happy Goodmans’ The Legendary Goodman Family (February 17th).
A special release of Wendy Bagwell’s classic “Here Come The Rattlesnakes” will be released by Canaan digitally and to radio stations worldwide on December 2nd. Canaan’s full album vault releases can be purchased through a number of digital service providers for under $10.00 and single songs can be purchased for around $1.00. Access to purchase and view these new releases can be found by logging on to http://www.canaanrecords.com/vault . For more information on downloading Southern Gospel music to your computer or burning it to a CD, visit http://www.canaanrecords.com today.
Coming Soon titles and a complete release schedule of upcoming old classics from Canaan Records can also be accessed from Canaan’s vault page and Canaan’s Facebook page. Fans can become a Facebook Friend of Canaan and not only receive exclusive updates on release schedules, but audio clips, pictures and more from your favorite Canaan artists as well. Mike & Kelly Bowling, the Mike LeFevre Quartet and the Hoppers also have their own Facebook pages with specific information about their groups. All pages can be accessed through Canaan’s page by following this link: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Canaan-Records/25884114199 .
For more information on Canaan Records, log on to http://www.canaanrecords.com
XM Radio’s enLighten being added to Sirius as well.
As of shortly after Midnight on Wednesday morning, November 12th, Southern Gospel enLighten joins the Sirius satellite radio lineup, and can be heard on Sirius Channel 67 in addition to XM Channel 34.Marlin Taylor, enLighten’s Chief Shepherd, states that no significant changes in the channel’s programming are being planned, with Daniel Britt & Friends and Paul Heil’s Gospel Greats program continuing to be heard at their same times.
This move now makes Southern Gospel music available to all of the more than 17 million active satellite radio receivers, plus the many millions of homes equipped to receive satellite television from both DirecTV and Dish TV.
This Saturday, the channel celebrates its 4th anniversary, having been launched as an Internet station only when XM Radio began its XM Radio OnLine music service on November 15th, 2004. In November 2005 it was included when XM music channels were added to DirecTV service and joined the XM satellite lineup in April of 2006.
For more information, visit the enLighten website: http://www.sogoradio.com
Soloist & Original Gospel Sounds Member David East In Intensive Care
David entered the hospital this morning for a routine cath procedure when three blockages were discovered. Blockages of 90%, 80% and 50% were discovered. At the present time David is scheduled for triple bypass surgery Thursday (11/113).
David is currently resting comfortably with his wife Bobbi by his side. Mrs. East asks everyone to keep their family in your prayers always, but especially during this time. Please visit David’s website at: http://www.DavidEast.net or (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) to send get well wishes.
Both David as well as the Original Gospel Sounds record with the 145 Music Group on the Revival Wind label.
Anchormen Begin Work On New Recording
The Anchormen have begun work on a brand new recording. The yet unnamed new album is slated for release in early spring and is being produced by Donna Beauvais. The new single slated for release to nationwide radio soon is called, “Almost Time To Fly.”Long time Anchormen owner, Tim Bullins, expresses his feeling on the album in progress. “I don’t know when we have ever been more excited about an album. I feel like we have the right people, and the right songs. The men in this group and our producer are committed to keeping our spiritual focus while making the best Anchormen album ever released. I look forward to the process and the completion. I hope we honor God first and even the memory of my dear friend, Ray Bullard, who was a part of this ministry for so long before his passing this year.”
Producer Donna Beauvais shares, “I love working with the Anchormen. They are some of the most talented guys I have had the privilege of working with and, in addition, they truly want to do what they do for the right reasons. They are ready to reach the world for Christ and I am incredibly honored to be a part of their efforts.”
The Anchormen are booked exclusively by the Beckie Simmons Agency. For information about scheduling them, visit http://www.bsaworld.com
To learn more about the Anchormen, visit http://www.theanchormen.com or http://www.myspace.com/anchormenqt
Songwriter Luther G. Presley was inducted into the SGMA Hall of Fame
The Florida Boys appeared to honor their late songwriter performing his “When the Saints Go Marchin’ In” written with V.O. Stamps.
"Luther Presley penned the words in 1937 and V.O. Stamps wrote the music to 'When the Saints Go Marching In,'” he said. "The New Orleans Saints football team adopted the song as their theme song in the 1960s. Presley thought “I’d Rather Have Jesus” was his best song, however, several years after his death, “It’s Shouting Time In Heaven” has become one of the most popular songs heard on radio and TV and other media today having been used 4,158 times in one quarter as reported by BMI, Waller said.
The other 2008 SGMA class of inductees are Polly Grimes, the late Fred Daniel, Squire Parsons, the late Herschel Lester, and Ray Dean Reese.
http://www.sgma.org
Christian Davis Launches Ministry Website
Christian Davis proudly announces the launching of a website christiandavisministries.com . Designed by Allens Design Group, the site is very user friendly as it provides biographical information, appearance schedule, online song clips, photos, media, online store and a page featuring the latest news regarding his ministry.“I am so excited to be doing what God has called me to do,” states Christian. “Kimberly has captured exactly what I wanted in a website. Please visit the site soon and be sure to sign up to receive my weekly newsletter”.
For more information, please visit http://www.dominionagency.com or http://www.christiandavisministries.com
Brandon Andrews Releases Christmas Single, “O Holy Night”
Brandon Andrews is excited to announce the release of his Christmas single, "O Holy Night".Brandon shares, "This special song has become a traditional anthem for the holiday season. Though many artists have performed 'O Holy Night', it seems with each version you sense anew the excitement of that special, sacred night our Lord and Savior was born." Andrews continues, "Christmas is a time that is dear to my heart, much more than gifts and great food and fellowship with our loved ones and friends. Though many consider the holiday season to be just a short portion of the year, as a Christian I prefer to celebrate Christmas all year long as the founding event of our faith, the birth of Jesus Christ."
http://www.myspace.com/brandonandrewsmusic
The Freemans Reach #1 on GospelMusicTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart
The group’s current single – “Three Rugged Crosses” – is resting at the #1 spot on the GospelMusicTimes.com Top 40 Chart this week. The GospelMusicTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart is the Southern Gospel industry’s only chart that is based solely on the votes of the fans.
Chris Freeman of The Freemans said, “This song has been a huge part of our ministry over the last year and a half. The fans have really taken to this song. We are so excited that they thought enough of it to take to #1 on this Fan Chart. Thank you so much.”
In addition, “Three Rugged Crosses” is currently sitting at #2 on the SoGospelNews.com Top 40 Weekly Chart – the industry’s leading weekly chart based on radio airplay.
“Three Rugged Crosses” was written by Rick and Marty Funderburk and is found on their latest album – Eyes On the Prize. That album has spawned off the record-breaking #1 hit “He Chose Me” as well as the hit single “Cast In the Sea” and ministry driven “I Need a Drink.”
This holiday season, The Freemans will tour in support of their brand new Christmas recording – Christmas Memories.
The Freemans are currently preparing to record their follow-up to Eyes On the Prize. The album is slated to release in 2009.
The newly designed Freemans website is now up and running. Check out more information on the group’s current website at http://www.the-freemans.com. You can also visit the group’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/thefreemans07.
About The Freemans
The Freemans are one of Southern Gospel’s most celebrated and critically acclaimed groups. History, experience and spiritual wisdom are three attributes that can be used to describe the foundation of the Freeman ministry. Deeply rooted with family, the Freemans’ experience spans 30+ years. Now in their 20th year of ministry, the Freemans still perform at approximately 250 dates a year, and continue to experience tremendous success.
2nd Generation Renews Publicity Contract with Southern Spin Entertainment
Brenda Denney of 2nd Generation said, “We have been so pleased with the work that SSE has done for us. They come highly recommended by us.”
“We have grown to love 2nd Generation and their heart for ministry,” said Amy Marie Unthank of SSE Group, Inc. “Brenda, Elaine, and Jimmy are the real deal. Get to know them – you’ll instantly fall in love with them.”
2nd Generation recently took on a full-time tour schedule.
2nd Generation released their much anticipated sophomore album earlier this year – I See a City. I See a City was produced by award-winning songwriter Gerald Crabb for Premier Crabb Productions. The new album features a mix of new material and older songs that have played a major influence in the group.
I See a City is the follow-up to the group’s break-out album, Who Wants to Praise the Lord? That album spawned off the hit singles “Hanging On a Nail”, “When He Chose Me”, and the group’s first Top 80 hit “Trouble Me No More.” I See a City is available to purchase at concerts and other events.
Be listening for the group’s current single – “I See a City” – at Southern Gospel radio now.
For more information on 2nd Generation – visit http://www.2ndgenerationministries.com.
You can also find out more information about the group on their MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/2generation. The group’s ShoutLife can be found at http://www.shoutlife.com/2ndgeneration.
About 2nd Generation
2nd Generation is based out of the Kansas City, Missouri area. 2nd Generation has appeared at churches, state fairs, Singing in the Sun, Trinity Broadcasting Network, and many other events. Their first project is titled Who Wants to Praise the Lord and features the hit singles “Hanging On Nail”, “When He Chose Me”, and the Top 80 hit “Trouble Me No More.” The group just released their sophomore album, I See a City.
About Southern Spin Entertainment
Southern Spin Entertainment is one of three divisions of the 501c non-profit organization SSE Group, Inc. Southern Spin Entertainment focuses on publicity and marketing for Southern and Country Gospel artists. The company currently represents artists, organizations, industries, and companies in all genres of Gospel music.
For more information on Southern Spin Entertainment, go to http://www.southernspin.com .
SSE Group’s three divisions include Southern Spin Entertainment, SSE Design Group, and Southern Spin Radio. SSE Group currently owns and operates Glorious Creations, SGBlogNews.com, and TheBridgeLive.net.
For more information on SSE Group, go to http://www.ssegrouponline.com.
The Paynes Added to Branson Gospel Music Convention
Fan favorites during the 1980’s and 1990’s, The Paynes rose through the Southern Gospel ranks because of their talent, their love for God and Mike Payne’s gift of songwriting. While starting out writing such favorites as “God Delivers Again” and “That Same Spirit”, Mike soon became one of Southern Gospel’s most notable songwriters.
During his career, Mike penned or co-wrote songs that are now standards in Southern Gospel music. Mike’s song catalog includes “Ready or Not”, “Out Of This World”, “Come On Over”, “I’m A Jesus Fan”, “The Conversation” and many more. Mike partnered with songwriting great Ronny Hinson to pen the classic “When He Was On The Cross I Was On His Mind”.
In 1990, Mike announced his calling to preach and The Paynes disbanded. They reunited only once for a reunion concert in 2000. The appearance of The Paynes at the Branson Gospel Music Convention will no doubt bring fans from all over the United States that have missed their energetic style and spiritual anointing on stage.
“We’re very excited to have such a rich part of Southern Gospel history join us at this convention. The Paynes have blessed hearts and shared so much joy through the years, and we look forward to bringing them to the beautiful Branson Convention Center,” said Kelly Burton, Director of Media Relations for YMR Music Productions.
Plans were announced last month for the annual event in the heartland of America. The Branson Gospel Music Convention will be held July 14-17, 2009 at the Branson Convention Center in Branson, Missouri.
Performances by The Blackwood Quartet, The Stamps Quartet, The Florida Boys and The Chuck Wagon Gang have already been confirmed for this multi-day music festival that is sure to become one of the nation's premier Southern Gospel concerts. In addition to these pioneers, the concert will also feature some of the best-known artists from today, as well as some great regional artists from all over the country.
Artist lineups are being finalized and tickets will go on sale shortly. For more information on the event, visit http://www.bransonGMC.com .
About the Branson Gospel Music Convention
The Branson Gospel Music Convention is a 4-day event bringing the legends of Gospel Music to the same stage with some of the best regional artists in the nation. For more information on the Branson Gospel Music Convention visit their website at: http://www.bransongmc.com
Performers gather for “An Appalachian Musical Revival: Live at Ringgold Depot” Charity C
“An Appalachian Musical Revival: Live at the Ringgold Depot” brings together 19 artists with the purpose of encouraging youth in traditional music of Appalachia. The new fundraising CD from the Share America Foundation, includes 23 recordings, over an hour of music; live from the stage of the Ringgold Depot in Georgia, a 159 year-old train station that played a role in the Civil War’s Great Locomotive Chase. It is available at http://www.ShareAmericaFoundation.org and various outlets.“We are so excited that all of these talented performers would give their time and energies to further the organization’s purpose of encouraging young musicians who are continuing the traditional music of our region,” said Share America Chairman Joe Turner.
Actor/entertainer Randall Franks, “Officer Randy Goode” from TV’s “In the Heat of the Night” leads the cavalcade of Southern music stars who graciously gave their time and talents for the effort. “I want to thank all these wonderful performers who gave their best to create a project that anyone who loves music will enjoy,” he said. “I was blessed to have two wonderful parents who supported my musical hopes and dreams to share my songs and fiddling. It is my honor to now share their legacy of encouragement with youth from around our region.”
Among the performers sharing their talents are Four Fold, Buddy Liles, The Marksmen Quartet, Barney Miller, The Smoky Mountain Boys, The Southern Sound Quartet, The Testimony Quartet, Voices Won, Walnut Grove Bluegrass Band, The Watkins Family, Calvary Strings, Brady Hughes, Mt. Peria Baptist Church Male Chorus, Ringgold United Methodist Church Chancel Choir and 2007 Scholarship recipients John Rice, Deborah Taylor and Garrett Arb.
The Share America Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit 501-C3 that encourages youth to play the traditional music of Appalachia. The organization provides two Pearl and Floyd Franks Scholarships annuall