2018 National Quartet Convention - Saturday Night Recap

I was back watching tonight for the final night of singing. The schedule overall ran early which allowed for Bill Bailey a little leniency. It was good that he asked a few artists back on stage for one more song or asked them to repeat a chorus of a previous song.



Highlights and Commentary - 

• I missed seeing the Kingsmen earlier in the week, so this was my first look at the new lineup. Thought they are sounding good together already!
• It's always fun to see who artists might pull up to join them during their sets. Lauren Talley joined Mark Bishop during his set for "With Me Always." The Erwins had a full choir from First Baptist Sevierville with them during their set. 
• The stretch from the Kingdom Heirs to the Whisnants was some of the best singing of the week in my opinion.
• I'm sad that Second Half Quartet will not be making appearances anymore (though I certainly understand why). They are quartet singing at its finest.
• I liked how they worked in the power hour artists into the program tonight. I wish that could be done every night.
• I wish the finale tonight had been different. I get that they wanted to do something different than the typical #1 parade of songs (which I do love every year). However, the thing that separates this music from everything else is that at the center is Jesus. I wish the culmination of the week had not been focused on America but on Jesus. 

Favorite Performances - 

• "In the House of the Lord" - The Erwins
• "Saints Will Rise" - The Kingsmen
• "What An Anchor" - Mylon Hayes Family 
• "Until You've Known the Love of God" - Greater Vision
• "Midnight Cry" - Jonathan Wilburn
• "Heaven Just Got Sweeter For You" - Kingdom Heirs
• "The Broken Ones" - The Talleys
• "Going Home" - Second Half Quartet
• "That Sounds Like Home to Me" - Jim Brady Trio
• "The Greatest of All Miracles" - Jim Brady Trio
• "Nothing Stops the Savior's Love" - Tribute Quartet
• "I'll Pray for You" - The Whisnants

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidbits - Sept. 8

Here are news and tidbits from the past two weeks in Southern Gospel -

• Ray Dean Reese of The Kingsmen announced the addition of new baritone vocalist, Alan Kendall. Randy Crawford held the position for 12 years and announced that he would be coming off the road this summer. Kendall previously sang with Gerald Williams and the Melody Boys Quartet and Jordan's Bridge.
• Jody McBrayer announced that he will join Avalon for limited touring dates and a new recording. He will continue to be with Cana's Voice as well as doing some solo dates.
• Effective January 1, 2019 in addition to his solo minsitry, Bob Sellers will also assume the lead singer spot for The Old Time Preachers Quartet. He will also maintain his solo ministry.
• The Jim Brady Trio has signed an exclusive recording agreement with Daywind Music Group. Their new project Hope Keeps Writing The Song will release later this month.
• Prayers go out to the families of two former Blackwood Brothers members. Bill Shaw passed away on Sept. 7, and former piano player Jack Marshall passed away on August 27.
• Jordan’s Bridge announced Dale Shipley as their new lead singer following the departure of Alan Kendall. 
• The Ball Brothers announced Rhett Robert as the group's new bass singer. This announcement came as part of the group's recent article in Sports Illustrated. Read the article here. 

Anything I've missed?

In Case You Missed It - August 19 - News and Tidbits

Here are some news items from this week in Southern Gospel -

• The Kingsmen Quartet announced Chris Bryant as the group's new lead vocalist. As a Wiggins, Mississippi native, Chris has served in music ministry for several years in various capacities while operating his own business. Most recently, he has served as lead vocalist for the Mississippi-based quartet, The Bibletones. His first official date with the group was August 9.
• Prayers go out to the family of Polly Lewis Copsey. Polly sang with the first family of bluegrass gospel music, The Lewis Family. She is also the mother of Sheri Easter. She battled with Parkinson's disease for 16 years.
• The Old Paths announced that they will start a full-time touring schedule in 2019. The group returned to the road after a year and a half break in June 2017.
• Exodus has announced they will perform as a female trio in the future. The group is based in Gadsden, Alabama.

Anything I've missed?

Randy Crawford Leaves The Kingsmen

The Kingsmen announced today that longtime baritone singer Randy Crawford will be coming off the road. Here's the full release from the group -

Ray Dean Reese announces that long-time Kingsmen baritone, Randy Crawford, is retiring from full-time ministry. Randy states, “Due to recent health concerns, it is with sadness, but joyous expectation of the future, that I announce my resignation from The Kingsmen.”

“It’s been a fantastic ride and such an honor to be a part of this rich and storied legacy. Being the last man Eldridge Fox hired before God called him home, I’ll never forget the kindness I was shown by ‘Foxy,' Greg, and the whole organization. During my second stint, working under Ray Dean Reese has been nothing short of exceptional. Ray is the definition of professionalism," states Randy. “There are not enough words or time to recognize all the men I want to thank. Over 25 years in this industry, I’ve made many friends and gained a few ‘brothers.’”

Effective August 1, Randy begins a new chapter in his life and ministry. He plans on spending time at home to focus on healing and family. He and his wife, Caroline own and operate two businesses and he is a full-time daddy to their youngest children, Mitchell and Grace, who are entering high school this fall. He hopes to get back to some limited singing and preaching in the future.

“I will miss all the dear friends I’ve made across the country, but I’ll be sure to keep in touch through social media. Please keep me and my family in your prayers. And lift The Kingsmen up in prayer as they continue and strive, tirelessly for the cause of Christ.”

Ray states, “During Randy’s time here, two tenures totaling 12 years, it has been both mine and The Kingsmen’s pleasure to have him, not only as a vocalist, but a brother in Christ. The Kingsmen are, and will always be a family. His presence on The Kingsmen bus and in our organization will surely be missed. We wish he and his family the best in his future endeavors and his recovery.”

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidbits - July 28

Here are some news items from this week in Southern Gospel -

• Prayers requested for Randall Crawford of the Kingsmen. He has been hospitalized in Mississippi following an episode of stroke-like symptoms while on the road. They are awaiting additional tests.
• Songwriter Chris Binion has reached a publishing deal with Crossroads Music’s publishing arm. A few of Chris's songs are “God Is Faithful” by Karen Peck & New River, "Long Live the King" by The Old Paths and "King Jesus Is Coming" by the Whisnants.
• The Old Time Preachers Quartet has announced that Lee McNeill has resigned as lead singer of the group. He said that he will remain with the quartet through this year until a replacement has been found. 

Anything I've missed?

Catching Up and Taking a Break

I know I've been a little MIA recently, but just wanted to catch up on a few news items recently -

• The Kingsmen announced this week that Bob Sellers is leaving the group the second week of June. He's been at the lead singer position for almost seven years. Bob will be focusing his time on the entrepreneurship he’s established in his hometown area as well enjoying more family time. Pray for Bob and the group as they make this transition. Bob will definitely be missed on the road, but I definitely understand and respect his decision. His daughter will actually be playing basketball for the University of West Alabama next year, so he'll have the chance to be at more games for her as well as his younger children who are both active in their school. If you would like to audition for the Kingsmen, please send a demo, photo and bio to Kingsmenauditions@gmail.com. 
• Voting is now open for round 2 of the Singing News Fan Awards for subscribers. Go here to vote now.
• Please be in prayer for the family of Mary Ann Gaither Addison, who passed away on Wednesday, April 25 after suffering complications from a pulmonary infection.
• Christy Sutherland and Matt Dudney are very proud to announce the birth of their baby boy. Kenneth John Matthew Dudney was born on March 27, 2018 at 8:01 a.m., weighing 5 lbs 14 oz.

In other news, you may have noticed that posts have not been as frequent lately. I've been to several concerts and have CDs lined up to review, but time has been an issue. In addition to my full-time job, I also teach a class at a local college. Between the jobs and other commitments, the blog has unfortunately taken a back seat. Posting will probably continue to be sporadic for the next few weeks while I wrap up the semester. Sorry, but I hope to get back up to speed after a mini break!

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidbits - January 6

Here are some news items from this week in Southern Gospel Music -

• Chris Jenkins has rejoined the Kingsmen Quartet at tenor.
• Prayers go out to the Younce family as Tara passed away this week.
• Prayers also go out to Gerald Wolfe's family. His father passed away Saturday.
• Kim Hopper is recovering from foot surgery. Please remember her as she recovers.

Anything I've missed?

Chris Jenkins Rejoins the Kingsmen

Chris Jenkins is once again a member of the Kingsmen Quartet. Chris left the group in 2015 after being with the group since 2012. He was with the Anchormen most recently. Chris is back with the group as of December 31. 2017.

Chris stated, “Being a “quartet” man at heart, it’s hard to imagine myself as anything else. I am beyond honored to have the opportunity to climb back on The Kingsmen bus and reunite with this strong 61-year legacy. I want to thank Ray Dean and Brandon Reese and the rest of The Kingsmen for their friendship and welcoming me back to The Kingsmen family. What a joy it will be to see old friends I haven’t seen in two years and most importantly sharing with people the message of the gospel thru song! I am looking forward to great things from the Lord and the opportunity to make more life-changing music with this wonderful ministry.”

It's good to see Chris back with this group. The Kingsmen had one of their strongest releases in recent history with Battle Cry during Chris's tenure. Excited to see what is to come!

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidbits - December 16

Here are news items from this week in Southern Gospel -

• Phil Cross announced the return of Poet Voices as a quartet for the first time in 15 years. Beginning January 2018, Poet Voices will start touring with Phil Cross, Donny Henderson, Nic Holland and Brandon Barry. The quartet will travel with a live band on select dates.
• Joshua Horrell announced his departure from the Kingsmen. He had been with the group since June 2016.
• Bruce Penland passed away on Saturday, December 9, 2017. He played upright bass with The Primitive Quartet. Services were held on Tuesday, December 12. Please keep his family in your prayers.
• Three Bridges has signed with Sonlite Records marking a reunion for the singing group and label. Their next album is due out summer 2018.
• Main Stage Artist Bureau announced that it has entered into an exclusive booking agreement with Wes Hampton of the Gaither Vocal Band.

Anything I've missed?

They Don't Know - The Kingsmen - CD Review

The Kingsmen's new project They Don't Know released a few weeks ago. The group's last CD Battle Cry was one of the best releases of the group to date. This is also the quartet's first release with tenor Joshua Horrell. Let's see how They Don't Know follows up.

The project starts with the title track. It's one of the more progressive songs that the Kingsmen have released. I love the play on words here ... they don't know (what the Lord can do). I also like that they chose that as the album title. The song is definitely one of my favorites on the CD.

"Keep the Lions Hungry" has that country gospel flair, probably also a bit more on the progressive side. Bob Sellers is featured on this one. It's a fun, toe-tapping song that talks about several different lion stories in the Bible with David killing the lion and then Daniel in the lions' den. Then it brings in that "application" verse. I really like this style for the Kingsmen.

New member Joshua Horrell is featured on the ballad "God Calls It Grace." This is the first of three features for Joshua. Love getting to hear a lot from him. This is probably my favorite of the three.

Bob is also featured on "Hear the Word of the Lord." This was another highlight. It's another more country sounding song. He's also highlighted on "Cost of the Cross." I love the challenge of the song - "May I never forget the debt my sin cost and live forever grateful for the cost of the cross."

"The Evidence I Need" is a slower-paced song. I really love Randy on this song. "Don't Underestimate God's Grace" is another great feature for Randy. It starts off with the steel guitar intro and is one of the more traditional songs on the project. Randy not only shows his vocal chops but also has a songwriting credit on the album with "Fade to Black," featuring Joshua. The song is a great ballad that reminds us of the promise of Heaven.

The Kingsmen throw in a traditional quartet song with "I'll Sail Away Yonder" showing off the high notes of Joshua and showing how low Ray Dean can go. It's a song that traditional quartet fans will love!

They Don't Know introduces Kingsmen fans to a new and fresh sound. They set the bar high with Battle Cry but this project is a great followup to that with a more progressive sound that really shows the blend of the group. Fans will NOT be disappointed with They Don't Know. It's one to add to your collection!


Songs to Turn Up - "They Don't Know" and "Hear the Word of the Lord"
Songs to Put On Repeat - "God Calls It Grace" and "Keep the Lions Hungry"
Songs to Give a Second Listen - "The Evidence I Need" and "Fade to Black"



Song List -
1. "They Don't Know"
2. "Keep the Lions Hungry"
3. "God Calls It Grace"
4. "Hear the Word of the Lord"
5. "The Evidence I Need"
6. "I'll Sail Away Yonder"
7. "Cost of the Cross"
8. "Let Go and Hold Fast"
9. "Fade to Black"
10. "Don't Underestimate God's Grace"
11. "Legacy"

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidbits - October 8

Unfortunately there's a lot of sad news this week. Here's a recap of news from this week -

• Carolyn Reese, wife of Ray Dean Reese of the Kingsmen, suddenly passed away this week. Her funeral will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 11 in Asheville, North Carolina. Please keep all of the Reese family in your prayers.
• Jeff Bumgardner's daughter, Ella, had a ruptured brain aneurysm and passed away this week. She was only 10 year old. Jeff is a well-known songwriter in the gospel music community. Please pray for Jeff, his wife and children in the days ahead.
• Tanya Goodman Sykes shared via Facebook this week that doctors founds some malignancy with an ovarian cyst. Please keep her and the physicians in your prayers as they walk through the next steps of treatment and procedures. She will have surgery on Monday.
• Daywind Instrumental announced the addition of Jeff Stice to its roster of musicians. His first release is scheduled for early 2017.

Please keep all of these families who are hurting and dealing with sickness and loss in your prayers!

Wrapping Up Southern Gospel Picnic 2016 - Silver Dollar City

Well, I am back in the real working world, so my last recap of Silver Dollar City's Southern Gospel Picnic is a little late coming.

The last day of the picnic wrapped up with me seeing 11th Hour, the Kingsmen and the Isaacs, who typically close out the festival each year.


11th Hour

They started their set with "Mountain Moving Faith," and then Jaquita was featured on "Bound," two great songs from their most recent project.

Then Grant and Amber were featured on the verses of the classic "He'll Roll You Over the Tide." Love hearing them sing this one live!

Amber sang "His Eye Is on the Sparrow" a cappella and wow! She did an incredible job! They sang two more of their most popular songs, "Jesus Is in the House" and "Room With a View" before the end of the set.


Kingsmen Quartet

This was my first chance to see the Kingsmen with new tenor Joshua Horrell. He's doing a great job with them so far and brings a lot of energy on stage. He was featured on "He's All I Need," beautiful job!

It was good to hear a mix of classic Kingsmen with some of their newer songs. They started the set with "Beautiful City" and then sang "Battle Cry" and "I Know" both from their most recent project.

They ended with "Saints Will Rise," which was a fun one to close with!


The Isaacs

The Isaacs took the stage for the last night of the 12-day festival.

They just released their new project Nature's Symphony in 432. They sang several from that project. It was great to hear all of the new songs. They sang a couple of more uptempo ones like "Bird on the Wing," "This Is the Year" and "Rocks." One of my favorites they sang from the new project was "I Love You More." Sonya gave her testimony about her miscarriage and explained where the song came from.

It doesn't get much better than the Isaacs a cappella. They sang "The Lord's Prayer" right before intermission; it was incredible!!

It's good to see the next generation of Isaacs on stage. Levi is playing with his family now and was even featured singing on the John Denver song, "Back Home Again."

They, of course, sang several favorites like "Walk On," "If That Isn't Love," "Stand Still" and "I Have a Father Who Can." They ended the night and the festival with "He Ain't Never Done Me Nothin' But Good." I can't think of a better way to close it!

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidbits - June 4

Here are some news items from this week in gospel music -

• The Kingsmen Quartet announced their new tenor yesterday. Joshua Horrell, 24, is now their tenor singer. He has been filling in and trying our for the past month and is now with the group permanently. He's previously been with Declaration and the Anchormen Quartet. Below is a clip of him with the group.
• Master's Voice have announced T.J. Evans as the group's new lead singer. Justin Morphis left the group a little over a month ago. T.J. was previously with Allegiance (Declaration) Trio. 
• Jan Crouch of Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) passed away earlier this week. Keep her family in your prayers.
• Scott Fowler made an appearance this week on the popular game show The Price Is Right. You can catch a clip from the show here. 

Anything I've missed?

Kingsmen Quartet - Ward, Arkansas

With social media we live in such an instant world. We have so much information available at our fingertips. Now when groups change members, fans know pretty much instantly and get early looks through concerts and online videos of groups when they have people filling in and trying out. While it's good for fans it also puts pressure on groups and new members. That being said, this won't be your traditional concert recap.

I had the chance to see the Kingsmen a couple of weeks ago with Chuck Pettyjohn singing tenor for them. He filled in with the group at the end of last year as well. It was great seeing him with them that weekend!

The night was a great night of worship with some fantastic quartet music. Here are some highlights of the night -

• I loved getting to hear Ray Dean Reese on "Healing Stream." This was a great moment. He shared a little bit of his testimony and battles with cancer so it was special to hear how much this song means to him. Randy Crawford talked about how with each battle of cancer that Ray Dean has faced that he has always had the attitude that it's just a victory in the waiting. Such a testament to his faith!
• They sang several great, older Kingsmen songs like "Meet Me at the Table," "I've Got a Reservation and "The Next Cloud." Great hearing some of these songs live again!
• They also pulled out "Glory Road," which is a great tenor feature that really showed what Chuck can do. They also featured him on "Look For Me at Jesus' Feet." It was good to hear them let Chuck step up. They had a lot of fun with him on "Glory Road." He really sounded great with the guys, and they seemed to have a lot of fun together on stage.
• They really had a good mix of the older Kingsmen songs and some of the newer ones from Battle Cry including the title song, "Oh Yes I Am," "I Know" and "Come and Dine." 
• "Cross of Grace" has become such a great song for the Kingsmen. I love hearing Bob sing this one! It was definitely a standout moment of the night.

Before the invitation Randy talked about how Easter was just around the corner. His prayer was that with each song people would know Who they had been singing about. He said we should be changed each time we are in His presence - that really stuck with me that night. Do I take full advantage of each concert/ service I attend? Am I really seeing them as a worship service and not just a concert? Is my heart ready to worship? This group made sure He was the focus of the night.

I feel like a lot of times with groups in the middle of a transition we can focus on that and leave out the ministry part. However, their message and the gospel was front and center.

I'll leave you with a short clip of "Meet Me at the Table." 

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidbits - January 30

Here are a few news items from this week in gospel music -

• Jon Epley has joined the LeFevre Quartet as bass singer leaving the Ball Brothers. Brandon Barry was the bass singer for the group.
• Brian Free & Assurance is releasing its next album as a trio - Live Like We're Redeemed.
• The Kingsmen Quartet are continuing their search for a tenor singer. Ernie Phillips has been filling in for the past few weeks. They posted on Facebook that if you or someone you know is interested to email kingsmentenor@gmail.com.
• Daywind Records announced a talent contest with its 2nd Annual Daywind Quartet Festival. Daywind invites quartets to submit a video of an a cappella performance of a public domain song up to 2 minutes in length. The five quartet videos with the most Facebook likes will be invited to perform at the Daywind Quartet Festival in April. Attendees will vote on their favorite quartet, and the winner will a recording package from Daywind Studios. To enter, send your video to publicity@daywind.com by February 5.  
• Gold City is inviting fans to take the "Are You Ready" Challenge in memory of Doug Riley who passed away on Jan. 31, 2006. The group is asking fans to share the song with a friend and on their Facebook timelines. Find out more details on the group's Facebook page. 

Anything I've missed?

Chris Jenkins Leaves the Kingsmen, Joins Anchormen

The Kingsmen announced today that tenor sing Chris Jenkins will be leaving the group. He's been the tenor singer for almost four years. He will be with the group until Dec. 14.

However, fans of gospel music can see Chris in the future with the Anchormen. Starting in 2016, he will join the group with Derrick Boyd leaving the group. The group is closer to Chris's home and will allow him more time with family.

Ray Dean Reese stated, “We have thoroughly enjoyed the time that Chris has been a member of the Kingsmen and we will miss him. We do, however, completely understand that Chris has made a decision to have more time with his son. He goes with our blessings and prayers that God will continue to lead and guide his life."

“Performing with the Kingsmen since March of 2012 has been an exciting opportunity," Chris said. "I’ve always loved Ray Dean and the Kingsmen since childhood. I count it an honor to have been a part of the Kingsmen. As a member of the group, I’ve met so many fine people and made lots of friends all across America. At this time I feel the need to make a change in order to be with my 6-year-old son, Ryan, as often as possible.”

Anchormen owner Tim Bullins said, “We are extremely pleased to welcome Chris on board with the Anchormen. We have been acquaintances for several years and are looking forward to a tremendous future. Although we are we are saddened with the departure of Derrick, we completely understand and support his decision. He and his wife Phyllis will always hold a special place in our hearts.”

Reunion Day at Silver Dollar City - Southern Gospel Picnic - Sept. 2

I got up early yesterday morning to make my way back from Central Arkansas to Branson, Missouri. I was hoping to be there in time for Mark Trammell Quartet's first show at 10:30 a.m., and I was successful.

I had been looking forward to today for a while with the Gold City Reunion tonight in Echo Hollow. From videos and music, I would say the Jay, Jonathan, Mark and Tim lineup of Gold City, but I never had the chance to see them live together until last night.

Here are highlights from the day -

Mark Trammell Quartet

• "The King Is Coming" - I love hearing this group sing this song. It's always a powerful moment!!
• "Your Walk Talks" - The audience eats this song up, every time.
• "It's Almost Over"
• "Wonderful Time Up There" - This is always a fun song live!
• This was my first chance to see Blake Buffin with the group, and I'll just say I'm impressed. He's blending well with the group already. He was featured on "Tis So Sweet to Trust In Jesus." He did a great job! Enjoyed hearing both him and Randy stepping out on "Echoes From the Burning Bush" as well.

Jay Parrack and Vocal Event

• "Rock of Ages" - This was a cappella and amazing!
• "Love Lifted Me" - Loved this song from their latest project!
• "Glory Road" - Jay's high tenor just amazes me.
• "Where Eternity Begins" - Beautiful song that was written by two of the group members!

Kingsmen

• "Everything I Need" - This is probably my favorite Kingsmen song, so it's always a highlight in my book.
• "Cross of Grace"
• "Oh Yes I Am" - They encored this song several times and the audience was on its feet by the end!
• "Oh What a Savior" - Chris Jenkins slays this song every time.

Gold City

• "Farther Along" - This is a fun song to see the guys sing long with the black gospel version of the sing.
• "Power of the Cross" - Such a powerful song, and a great way to end the first half!
• "I'm Rich"
• "Turn Your Back" - Chris West is a great bass voice and really sounds a lot like Tim. Great to hear him featured on this song!

Gold City Reunion

• I'm trying to keep it at highlights, but I think I'll probably mention most of what they sang. I'm a fan of these four guys individually, but there is really something special that happens when the four of them take the stage together. Jonathan commented that they all still live close in the same area and apparently keep in touch pretty well. It seemed that they had never missed a beat tonight!
• "I Can Tell You the Time" - They opened the reunion part of the night with this song. 
• "Born to Praise the Lord" - Mark did an incredible job on this song! Great to actually hear it live!
• "Then I Met the Master" - Jay was featured on this song.
• "Show Me the Cross" - Apparently I'm a bad Southern Gospel/ Gold City fan. I was not familiar with this song, but I'm definitely glad I am now!
• "Midnight Cry"
• "I'm Not Giving Up"
• "When He Calls Me I'll Fly Away" - They ended the night with this song, and I don't think anyone in the audience really wanted it to be over. 

Just What I Needed - Kingsmen Quartet Concert Recap

You know those days where nothing really goes as expected? That was my day on August 13. It was the day my Grandaddy was put in the hospital. I was supposed to go see the Kingsmen Quartet that night in DeWitt, Arkansas. I was torn on really what to do, but decided to make some minor adjustments to my evening but still go to the concert. I knew that I needed the music as much or more than anyone that night.

The Kingsmen Quartet - Chris Jenkins, Ray Dean Reese, Bob Sellers
and Randy Crawford

The Kingsmen is a group I don't get to see that often. I'm really enjoying this lineup together of the Kingsmen with Chris Jenkins, Bob Sellers, Randy Crawford and Ray Dean Reese. Their latest project has to be one of my favorites. They did a great job of singing a mix of old and new songs.

Here's a list of what they sang -

• "Go and Tell Somebody" - Great song to start the night with! 
• "Traveling Home" - The Kingsmen found incredible talent when they added Chris Jenkins to their roster. He really impressed me on this song!
• "Battle Cry" - This is the group's latest single and one of my favorites from their most recent project. 
• "I've Never Seen the Righteous Forsaken" - Another great new Kingsmen song!
• "I Know" - Ray Dean said this was his favorite from their latest project, and I can see why!
• "When I Wake Up" - Loved hearing them go back and sing some of the older songs. This is one of the first songs I remember hearing of theirs. 
• "Saints Will Rise"
• "Cross of Grace" - Randy talked about when they first heard this song there was no question of whether or not it would make the final project. Rebecca Peck wrote the song. It's an incredible picture of how we are as believers. We can get away from him a little step at a time, but His love never left us. Definitely a highlight of the night!
• "Oh Yes I Am" - This song is a fun one live!
• "Beautiful City"
• "Wish You Were Here" - This was a song I wasn't really familiar with. Beautiful song!! Definitely had to look it up again when I got home.
• "Come and Dine"
• "Look for Me at Jesus' Feet" - Absolutely incredible way to end the evening!

The day really had been nothing like I expected, but I'm glad that I still decided to squeeze in a trip to see the Kingsmen. Southern gospel ministries have two main objectives as I see it - bring people to a saving knowledge of Jesus and encourage the believers. That night the Kingsmen definitely accomplished the second for me. It was the encouragement and reminder I needed. I didn't know what the week ahead would bring at the time. But I'm so thankful of the reminders I got that night -- reminders of Heaven, of God's peace, salvation, His omniscience, mercy and His amazing grace. It was exactly what I needed.

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidbits - April 11

Here are some news and tidbit items from this week in Southern Gospel -

• Congratulations to Kasey Kemp (Allegiance) and Haley Young (Angela Lilly Trio) who got married on Tuesday!
• Prayers requested for Randy Crawford's (Kingsmen Quartet) son Mitchell who was in an ATV accident. He has no internal injuries but has several broken bones. He had surgery on Friday into his femur bone. He will have an MRI today for his neck. Check the Kingsmen's Facebook page for updates. 
• Pray for the Unthank family of AbsolutelyGospel.com. Deon Unthank's mother passed away this week.
• Stacy Pearcy has decided to leave Back Home to pursue other interests. Back Home will continue as a duet for now and are prayerfully considering adding a third member. 
• Congratulations to TaRanda Greene and Landon Beene who got engaged this week!

Anything I've missed?

Fun Clip Friday - Singing at Sea Kingsmen Reunion

Last week was the Singing at Sea cruise with dozens of gospel artists. A few years ago, there was a Perrys reunion, but this year it was the Kingsmen's turn to have a reunion at sea!

Check out a few clips from it for Today's Fun Clip Friday post!

Post by The Mark Trammell Quartet.