The Craguns - Names You Might Not Know Yet

Last month, I asked for suggestions on groups to revive the series Names You Might Not Know Yet. I've got a few more interviews coming over the next few weeks. But today starts off with the Craguns.

The Craguns consist of husband and wife, Jordan and Elena Cragun, Ray Cragun (Jordan's father) and Nick Adams (cousin). The group officially formed earlier this year although everyone is experience in music. This family group is related to another family group in gospel music. Read more below to find out which one!


Question -  Did you grow up with a strong southern gospel influence? When did you first become interested in southern gospel?

Jordan Cragun - Yes. Everyone in the group grew up with a strong southern gospel influence. Everyone in the group started listening and singing southern gospel music at a very young age. Interesting fact... Everyone in the group was a pastor's kid at some point in their lives. We all grew up in church and singing often.


Question - How did you get started singing and traveling as a family?

Jordan - Obviously this is something we have dreamed of doing all of our lives. My stint with the west coast based, Liberty Quartet is probably what got my foot in the "gospel music door." I traveled with Liberty Quartet from 2008 to 2013. Toward the end of my tenure with Liberty, my dad resigned the church he had pastored for over 20 years. It was then that we started seriously discussing and praying about the possibilities of doing something like this. One of the best quotes I've ever heard is: "95% of the time God's will is common sense." God opened door after door to put this opportunity in our laps and after a while it was just common sense.


Question - What's the one thing that you want people who walk away from your concerts to know about your family?

Jordan - That we love God with all of our hearts AND (if I may add a second thing) that we love them.


Question - Do you have a favorite song that you sing? And what song from another group has ministered to you?

Jordan - This is a tough one! I would say the general consensus for favorite song we sing is probably a song called "I Want To Be A Servant." It pretty much sums up our passion and purpose as a ministry. As far as a song from another group... I just dont think I can put my finger on one. There are MANY!


Question - What artists have been your biggest influence (musically and/or personally)?

Jordan - Musically: Of course we grew up listening to groups like Cathedrals, Gold City and many others. If I had to pick one that influenced us the most, I would have to say the Gaither Vocal Band (I think everyone in our group considers David Phelps to be the most gifted, powerful and dynamic vocalist we have ever heard). That would even encompass many ex members: Larnell Harris, Michael English, Guy Penrod, Steve Green, Russ Taff, Mark Lowry and others.

Personally: I would have to say The Collingsworth Family. For those who dont know... My mother and Kim are sisters. We actually live about 10 minutes from each other here in the Cincinnati, OH area. My uncle Phil is the guy I look to for musical and business advice on a regular basis. I'm so thankful for him and his willingness to take time out of his busy schedule to give his nephew some of his hard earned wisdom.


Question - What has been your favorite memory so far in your ministry? Do you have a certain concert that stands out?

Jordan - Not one specific concert... Our favorite concert memory so far would have to be the presence of the Holy Spirit in all of our concerts. We are absolutely nothing without the power and presence of the Spirit. I'm so thankful the Lord has chosen to bless our services with a clear sense of His Spirit.


Question - What new things are coming up for the Cragun Family?

Jordan - We just released our debut album God Will Deliver. We are very excited about that at the moment. We are looking forward to lots of exciting venues being added to our tour schedule on a weekly basis. We look forward to seeing you at a concert soon.

If you want to follow us and keep up with our travels you can signup for our email newsletter at www.thecraguns.com. You can also follow us on Facebook as well.