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To me nothing is more exciting than being able to hear a group at one of it's first concerts. I've had that privilege with several groups such as Gold City, Legacy Five, and the Mark Trammell Trio. I had that opportunity again January 4, 2003. My daughter and I traveled to Forest City, NC to the Missionary Wesleyan Church to hear Integrity on their second night as a group. It was obvious from the moment we arrived this was going to be a special night. There were people there from Georgia, Tennessee, South Carolina, Ohio, Mississippi and many other states. Thirty minutes before the concert the auditorium and balcony were packed. Before the concert began there were seats in the aisles and on the platform with people standing around the back of the church.

There was no doubt even before they sang this group had talent. Eric Bennett is one of the smoothest basses in the business and David Sutton has a beautiful tenor voice. Clayton Inman became a favorite singer of mine back in the early days with The Singing Americans. And Scott Inman, this child sat on my lap while he listened to his dad sing and he and his mom traveled a lot of miles with me going to the concerts. Now he is 'all grown up' and a truly talented baritone singer. Jeff Stice is a master at the piano and adds a special touch to many of their songs.

But even lots of talent can be less than pleasing if the blend isn't right or even if the 'chemistry' doesn't match. On this count Integrity has nothing to worry about. The blend is even and very pleasing to the ear. But more importantly you come away from their concerts with an assurance these men know Who they are singing about. There was more singing than talk but when something was said it was powerful.

One of the most poignant moments of the evening was just before Eric sang 'Daddy's Knees'. He told that a year ago that weekend Clayton had lost his dad and Scott's grandfather. Then he told of losing his dad in May, his dad was his best friend. Having buried a dear uncle, O'connell Brownlee, just days before, this song had a special meaning to me. I know how hard it can be to sing when you have lost those that are special to you, I had sung at his funeral. "Daddy's Knees" tells of a Godly man who spent much time in prayer for his family and lived for God each day. What a blessing that song was, as I thought of the Godly life the one I had seen move to heaven, had lived. We miss them but know that they are truly in a better land.

David was featured on the old favorite "Walk With Me" and I've never hear him sing any better. The last chorus was done accapella and that was true harmony. Jeff did a great rendition of "Hallelujah Chorus" as a piano solo.

They have 2 great songs written by Rodney Griffin, "God Will Hear Your Prayer" features David again with another example of smooth harmony. Tim Lovelace co-authors with Rodney, "I Bring You Forgiveness" also featuring David.

Another favorite song was 'Mercy Stepped In', featuring Clayton is a true picture of what our Savior has done for us! Of course, all 'first' concerts have at least one funny story, it's a rule, I'm sure! I have some advice for the guys, don't try to make Scott(ie) learn songs that were popular before he was born! The poor baby has memory problems! "First Day In Heaven" is a hand clapping crowd pleaser but when your baritone can't remember his lines and then gets so tickled he can't sing, it adds new a meaning to 'fun song'.

"God Can and He Will" was a tremendous song with a true message of hope featuring Scott. The fifties style ending was a real crowd pleaser.

At the close of the service Eric brought a four year old, named Will Lackey to the front for special prayer. Will has a serious blood condition that will be fatal without either God's healing or a bone marrow transplant. The audience joined Pastor Todd Gossett in praying for this young man. Please join us as we lift him up in prayer. For more information on Will, you can visit http://www.willpowerfund.com .

If you get the opportunity to hear these guys, don't miss it. And don't forget while in the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area they will be singing on Sunday nights and weekday mornings at the Louise Mandrell Theater.

Dee Ann Bailey - (JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Clayton, Scott, Eric and Jeff	The Guys doing "Get Away Jordan"
There's Spaghetti on your tie!	Smooth Singing

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