Playing Catch Up

I'm doing a little bit of catch up today after a blog hiatus. I'm hoping in 2019 I can get back to blogging more regularly. I've got a stack of CDs to review and several concert events coming up in early 2019.

But for today, there are several big news items I've missed over the past couple of months -

• Gospel music lost two legends in Les Beasley and Ernie Phillips. Les passed away on Saturday, Nov. 17 at age 90. He was the president of the National Quartet Convention and the longtime owner/manager/singer of The Florida Boys and a producer of "The Gospel Singing Jubilee." Ernie passed away on Nov. 29 at age 68. He was a legendary tenor and former Kingsmen Quartet member.
• Gary Casto of Tribute Quartet announced that Riley Harrison Clark is stepping down as the group's tenor to pursue a solo career. Riley has been with the group for nine years. He will be replaced by Gus Gaches, formerly of Legacy Five. 
• Squire Parsons had heart bypass surgery to repair blockages in his heart. He is now at home recovering well.
• The 2019 Grammy nominations were announced. For the first time in a while, the nominations for the Roots Gospel category were all Southern Gopsel artists: Unexpected by Jason Crabb, Clear Skies by Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Favorites:Revisited by Request by the Isaacs, Still Standing by the Martins and Love Love Love by Gordon Mote. 
• 2nd Generation based in Oak Grove, Arkansas announced the group's retirement. They will do two final concerts in Arkansas in January. The group consists of Brenda Denney, Elaine Robinson and Randy Barnes. 
• A new group has been formed, Redemption’s Promise. The group consists of Chuck Pettyjohn on tenor, Shannon Yates on lead, David Emery on baritone, and Paul Hyde on bass. They are based on Morristown, Tennessee.

Your Ways Are Higher Than Mine - When Lyrics Speak

You know those times in when God is trying to teach you something and He keeps over and over putting a verse in front of you. Maybe you read it in a daily devotional, you see someone post it on Facebook, the pastor preaches on it at church, whatever the case may be, you know that God is using that verse to speak to you.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." - Isaiah 55:8-9

This is the verse God keeps reminding me of lately. I don't mind telling you life has been a little crazy lately. It's been unpredictable in a few ways. It's been super busy, and I'm constantly trying to figure out how to get everything done and always worrying about the next step. It's not been what I would have chosen. It makes me question the path I'm on. It makes me wonder what the future holds. Sometimes situations can just shake your foundation and cause you to question so much about life, that's where I am.

I've had the song "Your Ways Are Higher Than Mine" on repeat a lot lately. I saw Rachel McCutcheon at a concert recently and told her how much I loved this song. We talked about how it just fit so many life situations, it's a song we all can relate to. His ways are higher than ours. When we don't understand life circumstances and know that God could fix it, we have to trust Him. His ways are higher. He sees the end and the beginning of all life situations, and He is using this situation to grow us and draw us closer to Him. Sometimes the easy thing is to pray for the situation to just be magically fixed but then we'd miss the growth process. We'd miss the journey that ultimately brings us closer to Him.

I have to trust that His ways are higher. I trust what He is doing because above all He is trustworthy. God, when I start to doubt help me believe and reassure me that You are working in my situation. God, I trust Your work, Your will and Your time as the song says. As high as the heavens are above the earth, Your ways are higher than mine.

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

2018 National Quartet Convention - Thursday Night Recap

I tuned in last night to catch the last part of Greater Vision's set. I will miss tonight's but be back for most of Saturday night.

Highlights and Commentary - 

• Of course, Thursday has become known as Gaither day at NQC. I didn't hear if it was sold out like last year but just judging by the webcast it looked pretty full. The Gaither Vocal Band had a 45 minute set last night. The more I hear this lineup, the more I like them - Wes Hampton, Adam Crabb, Reggie Smith, Todd Suttles and Bill Gaither. Wes Hampton is one of the best vocalists on the road today, in my opinion.
• Someone recently asked me who's going to be the next big up and coming group. My answer was the Jordan Family Band. I 100% stand by that after hearing them again last night during the power half hour on main stage. They are one to watch!

Favorite Performances of the Night - 

• "He'll Carry Me" - Greater Vision
• "When the Prodigal Comes Home" - Tribute Quartet
• "My Faith Still Holds" - Mark Trammell Quartet
• "Calvary" - Jim Brady Trio
• "I Will Go On" - Gaither Vocal Band
• "He Made a Change" - Legacy Five 
• "Walking Through Fire" - Ernie Haase and Signature Sound
• "He Never Made a Promise" - Kingdom Heirs
• "You Better Get Right" - Jordan Family Band

2018 National Quartet Convention - Wednesday Night Recap

I was able to see most of the night's performances, but I'll confess I was multi-tasking most of the night. The night was very strong overall, but not as many individual stand out moments.


Highlights and Commentary

• It has been interesting to see how several Southern Gospel artists are bringing more "modern worship" songs to the industry with their own spin on it. Of course, "Chain Breaker" was voted the favorite song today and Triumphant sang it tonight. The Talleys also sang "When Death Was Arrested" tonight. 
• It's neat to see Gerald Wolfe, Lee Black, Stan Whitmire and Wayne Haun playing on piano for several of the groups that took the stage tonight. 
• I also loved how Libbi pulled up several young artists to help them on "I Wish I Could Have Been There" tonight. 
• Triumphant and the Isaacs had the two longer sets of the night. Triumphant proved why they are consistently favorite quartet and the favorite artist for 2018. I loved what Scotty said today at the Fan Awards. It's not only that they are the same four singers, but it's what they are accomplishing through their ministry. I love how the Isaacs did some of their older favorite songs that they have recently re-recorded.
• I remember seeing the Chitans last year and being blown away, I felt the same this year.
• I wish there was a better way to work in the new groups throughout the night. I feel like a large part of the crowd is missing out on some good music with these up and coming groups. 

Favorite Performances of the Night 

• "He Welcomes the Beggar" - 11th Hour
• "Faithful" - The Whisnants
• "Christ, My Hope, My Glory" - High Road
• "Sun's Gonna Come Up"- LeFevre Quartet
• "When the Answer Is No" - The Talleys
• "Hallelujah" - Triumphant Quartet
• "Lord of my Heart" - The Isaacs
• "Present in the Presence" - Guardians
• "Washed by the Water" - Jason Crabb
• "I Know I'll Be There" - Karen Peck & New River
• "Sing in the Valley" - The Perrys

2018 Singing News Fan Awards

The Singing News Fan Awards were held this afternoon during a showcase. Lauren Talley, Mark Bishop and Tim Lovelace hosted the awards.

The biggest surprise winner to me was probably the first one with Josh Townsend taking home Favorite Young Artist. Good to see him get this honor and on his 21st birthday! High Road picked up Favorite New Artist coming off the success of "Christ My Hope, My Glory."

Here's a full list of winners -

Favorite Young Artist - Josh Townsend (Young Artist)
Favorite Alto - Connie Hopper (The Hoppers)
Favorite Tenor - Chris Allman (Greater Vision)
Favorite New Artist - High Road
Favorite Baritone - Mark Trammell (Mark Trammell Quartet)
Favorite Trio - The Booth Brothers
Favorite Bass - Eric Bennett (Triumphant Quartet)
Favorite Soloist - Joseph Habedank
Favorite Soprano - Kim Hopper (The Hoppers)
Favorite Lead - Ronnie Booth (The Booth Brothers)
Favorite Band - Kingdom Heirs Band
Favorite Radio Station - WJBZ Praise in Knoxville
Favorite Songwriter - Rodney Griffin
Favorite Mixed Group - The Collingsworth Family
Favorite Male Quartet - Triumphant Quartet
Favorite Album - Thankful by Triumphant Quartet
Favorite Song - "Chain Breaker" by Triumphant Quartet
Favorite Musician - Kim Collingsworth
Favorite Artist of the Year - Triumphant Quartet

National Quartet Convention 2018 - Tuesday Night

The second night of the 2018 National Quartet Convention is in the books. I watched most of tonight's evening concert missing only a little bit at the beginning. I hate that I missed seeing the Kingsmen not getting a chance to see the new lineup of this group.

Here are my thoughts and highlights of the night:


Highlights and Commentary - 

• One of my favorite things is to see the "scrap iron" groups come together. Jim Brady organized the Confused Quartet with himself on lead, Chris Allman on bass, Susan Whisnant on baritone and Nick Trammell on tenor. They sang "Winging My Way Back Home." I was very impressed with Chris' bass! 
• There were sweet tributes tonight from Kelly Nelon Clark and Sheri Easter to their parents. Kelly talked about how she had lost both of her parents early before singing "Going Home." Of course, Sheri just lost her mother Polly about a month ago and they played a clip of her singing with the Lewis Family from a Gaither Homecoming video. 
• It was good to see a few of the daughters of gospel music get the spotlight tonight. Karlye Hopper sang her song "My Ransom" on main stage tonight and Jason Crabb's daughter, Ashleigh, came up to sing with him on "Short Are the Years."
• Again, it was good to hear some of the new songs from albums releasing this week. Joseph sang "His Eye Is on the Sparrow" with the Erwins from his new duet album. Riley Harrison Clark sang one from his new solo project, "You Will Be Found."
• Gerald Wolfe joined Legacy Five on "Champion of Love" tonight toward the end of the evening. It was good to hear he and Scott Fowler collaborate on this Cathedrals classic.

Favorite Performances - 

• "Going Home" - Nelons
• "Cheer the Weary Traveler" - Second Half Quartet
• "Wayfaring Stranger" - Jeff & Sheri Easter
• "I Love You This Much" - The Whisnants
• "His Eye Is on the Sparrow" - Joseph Habedank and the Erwins
• "Grace At Its Best" - Tribute Quartet
• "There Is Jesus" - The McKameys
• "Song of Moses" - The Hoppers
• "I Know He Heard My Prayer" - Greater Vision
• "Through the Fire" - Jason Crabb
• "Champion of Love" - Legacy Five

National Quartet Convention - Monday Night Recap

Unfortunately, I am not at NQC in person this year. Last year was my first time to be there in person, and if you are a gospel fan, I highly recommend it. But this year, for me, the webcast will have to do. You can still subscribe if you are interested and you'll get to watch this year and last year on demand through the end of the year.

I tuned in tonight to catch the last part of the Jim Brady Trio's set, so I missed about the first hour of the night.

Highlights and Commentary -

• The Tracy Stuffle tribute was not a moment I will soon forget. It was incredible and so touching to see all the former members come back to pay tribute. They sang "I Know It Was the Blood," "Plan of Salvation" with a video of Tracy, "I Rest My Case at the Cross," and then Libbi sang "I Will Find You Again." Major kudos to Libbi for powering through the song, because I couldn't see for tears by the end. It was great to hear all the quotes about Tracy from former members. The whole set was just class and such a touching tribute.
• Clarke Beasley honored Libbi as a "hero of faith" before she left the stage. He then pulled up Kim Hopper and Chris Allman to sing "More Than Wonderful" in her honor as they have watched her faith remain steadfast through all the trials of the past several years. It was good to see her recognized as well as Tracy.
• I enjoyed the longer sets of Karen Peck & New River and the Kingdom Heirs tonight. 
• Karen Peck Gooch came up and joined former group member John Darin Rowsey and the Guardians on a song she cowrote "Uncommon Praise." I love when moments like that happen at NQC.
• Of course, with NQC comes the release of several new projects. It was good to hear several groups debuting new songs on the main stage - the Guardians, Jim Brady Trio and Gold City. 

Favorite Performances -

• "Ordinary Love" - Jim Brady Trio
• "I Will Find You Again" - The Perrys 
• "Gotta Be Saved" - Karen Peck & New River
• "The Cross Is All the Proof I Need" - Triumphant Quartet 
• "My Hope Is in the Blood" - Primitive Quartet
• "God Fights on my Side" - The Guardians
• "Calvary Answers for Me" - Kingdom Heirs
• "All My Hope" - Gold City

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidbits - Sept. 23

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

• The McKameys announced that 2019 will be the group's final year of touring. 
• Riley Harrison Clark of Tribute Quartet signed a contract for solo record with Daywind Records. His solo project, Welcome To Me, will release on September 28.
• The Perrys released a new concept video for "It Carried Him." Check it out below!

News from the McKameys

The McKameys announced the end of an era today. The group has decided that at the end of November 2019, they will be retiring from full-time touring.

Here's the full statement from the McKameys -

To all our faithful friends,

We would like to say, first and foremost, we appreciate your loyal friendship, your faithfulness in attending our concerts, your prayers for our group (some on a daily basis), and your financial support for our group over the past 38 (full-time) years. This "journey" would not have been possible without you following the Lord on our behalf!

We told you that we felt our journey would be slowing down this coming year and that we would be telling you more about this, so ... after much, much prayer, we, The McKameys, have decided that at the end of November 2019 we will be retiring from full-time touring because we feel this is where God is leading at this time in our lives. We will be continuing the traveling up until this time, Lord willing, allowing us time to see you all again...

We believe our message of Jesus Christ and what HE can do for you will still be carried on in our music for years to come, and with that being said we will be having a couple of surprises coming in our final year. 

Thank you once again for your continued support in this endeavor as this will not be an easy transition for any of us, but we feel this is the way God is leading us, and we have always tried to follow the leadership of HIM!

We love you all and hope to see you all in the coming year down the road!!

II Timothy 4:7 
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.

Ruben, Peg, Connie, Sheryl, Roger and Eli

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

Here are some news from this past week in Southern Gospel music -

• GW Southard was announced as the new pianist for Gold City Quartet. He will start with the group immediately.
• The newest release in Gerald Wolfe’s Gospel Music Hymn Sing series, Heaven’s Jubilee! Live at Indian Trail took over the Sun Valley 14 movie theater in Indian Trail, North Carolina on Monday, September 10 for a pre-screening of the live DVD.

Anything I've missed?

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?

Day 11 and 12 - 2018 Southern Gospel Picnic - Silver Dollar City

Well, it's been back to the real world for me, so I'm getting up my recap of last two days of the picnic finally today. Sunday, I got to see a new group, the Arenos, and the Ball Brothers and Jeff & Sheri Easter. Sunday I made it out to see Spoken 4, the Diplomats and Poet Voices before heading to Arkansas.


Here are highlights from those days -


The Arenos

This was my first time to see this group in person. They are based in Louisiana and travel with a live band! The group consists of Jonathan Areno and his children Penny and Nathan on vocals plus band members. They write and sing a lot of their own material.

• "Thou Knowest" 
• "Jesus Lives Here" 
• "Still" 
• "Little Prayers" 

The group even had a little music duel with the mandolin and guitar between father and son. Expect to hear more from this group in the future!



Ball Brothers

• "Count Your Blessings"
• "Redeemed"
• "Victory in Jesus"
• "Smile"
• "Happy Rhythm" - Stephen was filling in for them last weekend, but not really as a bass. So they had Chad sing the bass part on this song, and he did a fantastic job!
• "It's About the Cross" - Always a highlight to hear them sing this one live!

Jeff & Sheri Easter

• "Small Town Someone"
• "Over and Over"
• "Like My Mother Does"
• "Sitting on Top of the World" - So glad they sang this one!
• "He Looked Beyond My Fault - Jared played this on steel guitar.
• "Wayfaring Stranger"
• "This Flight That Is Leaving Soon" - They payed tribute to Sheri's mother
• Jared shared an original song he wrote about fatherhood and his little boy. It was precious!
• "The Seeker" - Love to hear Sheri on this song!
• "Roses Will Bloom Again" - Of course, this was a request during the second half.
• "Why Me Lord" - Jeff said they had played around and sang this one in soundcheck one day. This was a new one for me to hear them sing. Morgan and Jeff each took a verse.
• "Thank You Lord for Your Blessings on Me" - Jeff asked Mike, the Echo Hollow stage manager, to join them on this song. For the past few years, he's pulled him on stage at some point during the concert.
• "Keep on the Sunny Side" - Thankfully Duane persuaded them to sing one more before the evening ended!

Spoken 4 Quartet

• "Standing on the Solid Rock" - Love hearing them sing these standard quartet songs.
• "Jesus Cried" - This was a brand new song that featured tenor, Brandon Britton.
• "He Set Me Free"
• "There Is a Light" - Cecil showed off his bass vocals on this song. He's one of the best. The lights in the Opera House theater started flickering at one point!
• "Because He Lives" - They did a great job on this classic hymn!

Poet Voices

I forgot how many great songs that Phil wrote. It was good to hear them sing a few and remind audiences of what a talented writer he is. I really love the way this quartet is sounding together. My first time to see them back was in Memphis, and it was good to hear them live again!

• "Jesus Built a Bridge"
• "I Saw the Light"
• "When I Get Carried Away"
• "Champion of Love"
• "Yes, I Am"

The Diplomats

• "Joy in the Storm"
• "I Wanna See Jesus"
• "Buried Our Sins in the Past" - Corey is one of the most talented and underrated people in gospel music.
• "There's a Light Shining for Me" - Alex is one incredible bass singer! It's always fun to see people who seem them for the first time figure out where the big sound is coming from.
• "I Wanna See Jesus"
• "Let Your Light Shine" - They had a lot of fun with this one getting the audience to use their phones as flashlights.

2018 Southern Gospel Picnic - Silver Dollar City - Day 10

The Southern Gospel Picnic is about to wrap up with only two days left! It's hard to believe it's almost over and time to get back to the real world. It's been a great festival so far, and I'm looking forward to the last two days.

Yesterday, I got out to the park to see three different artists. Here are the highlights -


The Taylors
It was good to hear several songs from their new project, Faithful Again.

• "Faithful Again"
• "Anything Less" - One of my favorites from their new album!
• "Love Still Flows"
• "Beulah Land" - Jonathan asked if the audience would rather hear Chris sing "Beulah Land" or "In the Garden" there was no contest about what the people wanted to hear. They did an a cappella reprise of the chorus and it was amazing!
• "I Pray Every Day"
• "I'll Worship You Again" - Love hearing Suzanne sing this one live!

Jonathan Wilburn

I've been to A LOT of shows and sets in the past 10 days, but I have to say, the show I went to of Jonathan's had one of the sweetest spirits in the room I had experienced.

• "Without Him" - Jonathan said this was not on any project, he just felt God leading him to sing this song with just the keys. And I'm so glad he did!
• "Heaven's Jubilee"
• "Peace in the Valley"
• "Had It Not Been"

The Martins

This is the one time of year I get to hear the Martins and I just soak it all in. They sang several from their new project and of course their classic a cappella songs. It was an incredible night!

• "He Leadeth Me" - I love getting to hear them sing this song a cappella!!
• "Wherever You Are"
• "Running"
• "The Promise" - This song speaks to me every time. If I had to list my favorite gospel songs, this would be in the top five easy. It's always a treat to hear this one live!
• "You'll Never Walk Alone"
• "Love's Gonna Drive This Train"
• "Good"
• "Days Like This"
• "Still Standing" - This is the title track, it's a must listen!
• "Except for Grace"
• "Beautiful" - Joyce said they hadn't staged this one before, but they were going to try it out last night. And I'm sure glad they did!
• "Doxology"- They were going to end the night with this one and what an ending, but Duane asked if they would do one more!
• "So High" - This was the finale to a great night!

2018 Southern Gospel Picnic - Silver Dollar City - Day 9

We only have three days left of the 2018 Silver Dollar City Southern Gospel Picnic. I got to see two different groups on Day 9 - the Guardians and the Booth Brothers. This was my first chance to see the Guardians with Pat Barker as their bass.

Here are the highlights of the day -

The Guardians

It was good to hear a lot of their hits I've heard on the radio. The only other time I had ever seen this group live was at NQC last year, so it was good to hear more from them!

• "Packin' Up"
• "What a Day That Will Be"
• "How Big Is God" - Always a treat to hear Pat sing this one. 
• "Somebody Prays" - Loved hearing John Darin Rowsey sing this one. They played the video along with it as they sang. 
• "Woke Up This Morning"
• "Shoutin' Sounds"
• "Lord's Prayer" - Loved hearing the guys sing this one!
• "Who Am I"
• "Keeper of the Lost and Found" - I hadn't heard this one before and what a powerful song!

Booth Brothers

This is not a group I get to hear live very often, but it's always a treat when I do. It was a reminder of why they have been named the favorite group for so many years.

• They sang several hymns from their hymn collection - "Nothing But the Blood," "Holy, Holy, Holy," "Are You Washed in the Blood" and "Oh How I Love Jesus." They ended the night with "Because He Lives."
• "Facts Are Facts"
• "Touch of the Master's Hand"
• "Moment of Grace" - Love hearing Paul sing this one!
• "Look for Me at Jesus' Feet"
• "He Saw It All"
• "Down By the River" 
• "Three Wooden Crosses" - This was a new one to hear them sing live. Michael said they had recently done a Gaither video that featured more country-style songs. 
• "His Eye Is on the Sparrow" - Paul pulled out his black gospel style for this one. 
• "Jesus Saves" - Always a highlight and just a moment of pure worship!

2018 Southern Gospel Picnic - Silver Dollar City - Day 8

It was a rainy, dreary day, but that didn't stop a pretty good crowd of gospel music fans from going out to Silver Dollar City. I managed to make it out to the park mid-afternoon to see both the Nelons and Legacy Five. Kudos to the team at Silver Dollar City who managed to move the night concert inside on short notice!

Here are highlights from the day - 

The Nelons

• "Coat of Many Colors"
• "Farther Along" - Jason paid a sweet tribute to his grandfather before the song and dedicated the song to his memory.
• "Then Came the Morning" 
• "Bridge over Troubled Water" - So glad I got to hear this one live!
• "Daddy and Son"
• "I'm Going Home With Jesus"

Legacy Five

• "He Made a Change"
• "Well Done, My Child" - They did this one with the piano and pulled out a hymnal they found on stage. Scott Fowler said they hadn't done this one before live, but they did a great job!
• Patriotic Set - Of course, it wouldn't be a Legacy Five concert without a few patriotic songs. Josh did a piano medley of all the branches of the armed forces. Matt sang "Arlington," and Scott Howard sang "God Bless the USA."
• "Great Medley"
• "I Stand Redeemed"
• "God's Been Good" - Josh Townsend gave his powerful testimony before singing this song. What a testimony for all God has done in his life! I don't think there were many dry eyes in the house. 

2018 Southern Gospel Picnic - Silver Dollar City - Day 7

It was a rainy day, but that did not stop the crowds at Silver Dollar City or the almost 4,000 people who came down to Echo Hollow to see the return of the Collingsworth Family to the park. I didn't make it out as early as I intended, but I did manage to see three different groups.

Here are highlights -


11th Hour

This was my first chance to see Logan Smith with the group. He's sounding great with Amber and Jaquita.

• "Silence the Stones"
• "Power in Prayer"  
• "Bound" 
• "What Heaven Means to Me" - They let Logan sing a Vestal Goodman song since that's what he was known for when he was younger. 
• "He Welcomes the Beggar" - Love, love, love this song! It's always a highlight to hear this one live. 
• "Mountain Moving Faith"

Tribute Quartet

• "Standing on the Solid Rock"
• "Mary Did You Know" - It's not even close to Christmas, but I'm glad someone asked Riley to sing this one. No one does it better!
• "Homesick Angel"
• "Never Forsaken"
• "His Tomb Is Empty" - I hadn't heard them stage this one before, but it was definitely a highlight of the afternoon. 
• "God of the Storms"

You never know what's going to happen with Tribute Quartet, but the biggest surprise of the afternoon came from Duane Garren, emcee of the festival. During "Over the Moon," Duane made a surprise appearance on stage with a new Silver Dollar City ride - a scooter wearing a mask and earmuffs. Josh decided to sit on his knee and enjoy the ride for a little bit! It was hilarious! I'm sure there will be a video floating around on social media soon!

Collingsworth Family

This is a group that I don't see live very often. I saw them at NQC, but it had been years before that. And a 20 minute set at NQC isn't the same as a full concert. This family was absolutely incredible last night. There were so many goosebump moments.

• "Fear Not Tomorrow"
• "Mercy and Love" - Loved this song from their new project!
• "His Ways Are Higher Than Mine" - I saw the video they posted of this song a few weeks ago and fell in love with it. I am SO GLAD that Courtney sang this one last night. It's an incredible song!
• "This Is My Father's World" - They did an a capella arrangement of this song!
• "The Lamb" - They said it was the first time they had sung it live, and it was amazing!
• Anytime Kim stepped up to the piano, it was a highlight. She ended the night with the "Hallelujah Chorus," probably my favorite piece that she played.
• "Burdens Are Lifted at Calvary" - They gathered around the piano with no track just piano for this one. 
• "Casting Our Crowns at His Feet/ Worthy the Lamb"

2018 Southern Gospel Picnic at Silver Dollar City - Day 6

Yesterday was a full day of gospel music from 10:30 a.m. at the first Mark Trammell Quartet show until the last chorus of "God on the Mountain" from the McKameys. If you love traditional Southern Gospel, this was your day on the park.

Here are a few highlights -

Mark Trammell Quartet

• "He Hideth My Soul" - Love to hear Blake sing this him!
• "Go Show John"
• "The King Is Coming" - Always such a powerful moment when they sing this one. No one does it better!
• "The Statue of Liberty"
• "The Lighthouse" - Love to hear Mark sing this song. 
• "All the Way Home" - Such a fun top-tapper and Nick does a great job. 
• "Echoes From the Burning Bush" - I'm glad they chose to sing this one yesterday. It's one of my favorites! Randy does a great job on those step out bass lines!
• "My Faith Still Holds" - Such a great song, another one I was glad to hear them sing live!
• Trevor was featured on his Redeemed medley and the "Hallelujah Chorus." 

Mylon Hayes Family

I have only gotten to see this family a handful of times and mainly at hymn sings, so it was good to hear a full set from them yesterday. If you have not heard this family, make it a point to see them! And for all my Arkansas friends, they will be in Pine Bluff Thursday night. 

• "One More Opportunity" 
• "Well Done, My Child, Well Done" - They do convention style songs so well!
• "Oh What a Morning"
• "What a Day That Will Be" - Loved hearing them sing this old hymn. 
• I didn't realize that the boys played piano, but they did a piano duet of "Goodbye, World, Goodbye" yesterday. 
• "What An Anchor" - Such a powerful song! I've been hearing this one more and more on the radio, so I'm glad I got to hear it in person!

Greater Vision

• "Paid in Full"
• "Still" - One of my favorite recent songs from Greater Vision. 
• "For All He's Done"
• "Why Me Lord" - Jon does a great job on this song. Apparently his in-laws were in the audience yesterday and when he finished his father-in-law yelled out for him!
• "He'd Still Been God"
• "Hallelujah Square" - I love hearing Chris sing this song. I'm glad it's on their most recent project. No one sings this one better than Chris.
• "Rolled Back Stone"
• "It Pays to Pray" - Gerald said there was a man there from Germany who requested that song, so they closed their last set with it. It was definitely the highlight of their sets for me!

McKameys

I don't get to see the McKameys very often in person. I forgot just how passionate they are about what they do - the ministry and the music. They are just authentic and real. I love seeing that spirit just shine from them. It was good to see Eli doing so well from his kidney transplant last year and good to hear him sing one by himself! They sang most of their most popular songs. 

• "Living for Eternity"
• "Unspoken Request"
• "God on the Mountain" 
• "On and On"
• "What If"
• "Be Brave"
• "There Is Jesus"
• "For the Record"
• "Do You Know How It Feels"
• "I've Won"

After they finished, Duane gave Connie and Sheryl time to get to the top of the stairs to the product table. He asked Peg if she would sing the last chorus of "God on the Mountain" and had everyone sing with her so everyone there could say they sang "God on the Mountain" with Peg and the McKameys!

2018 Southern Gospel Picnic at Silver Dollar City - Day 5

Today was a day I've been looking forward to for a while. With the promise of America's largest hymn sing, it was an event not to be missed! But before the evening's service, I got the chance to see three other groups on park - the Whisnants, 2nd Generation and the New Speer Family. Here are highlights from the day and night.


The Whisnants

• "He's Never Moved"
• "Should Have Been Three" - I don't think I'd ever heard them sing this one live. This featured Austin, Ethan and Jeff. Great song!
• "Faithful" - This was another one I hadn't really heard live. Aaron does a great job on this song. 
• "All Is Well" - One of my all-time favorite Whisnant songs! So glad I got to hear Susan sing it this morning. 
• "I'll Pray for You"
• "I'm Trusting the Blood" - I'm glad they sang this one. Such a powerful song!
• "New Day Dawning"

2nd Generation

• "One More River" 
• "He Will Come Through" - I don't remember hearing Brenda sing this one live before. Such an incredibly powerful song, loved hearing her on this one!
• "Waving on the Other Side" - Always a treat to hear Randy featured on this song! 
• "Faithful As You" - Elaine was featured on this one. I had been a while since I had heard this one live. What a great message!

New Speer Family

This was my first time hearing this group in person, and understandably so considering they have really only been touring a month. This group sounds amazing together! It is pure Southern Gospel. 

• "Heaven's Jubilee"
• "I Feel It in My Soul"
• "I'm Building a Bridge" - Ben Waites was featured on this song and what a voice!!
• "He Is Mine and I Am His" - Loved hearing Allison sing this one! One of the highlights of the day!
• "I Never Shall Forget the Day"

Hymn Sing

This was the event we had all been looking forward to! And what a night it was - one I will not soon forget. We had more than 4,000 voices singing outside hymns for about 1.5 hours. The groups participating were Greater Vision, Mark Trammell Quartet, the Whisnants and the Mylon Hayes Family.

It was such a sweet, sweet time of worship. It's hard not to list every song as a highlight, because every song we sang was a great one - "Victory in Jesus," "Blessed Assurance," "Heaven Came Down and Glory Filled My Soul, "Wonderful Grace of Jesus, "Rock of Ages," and on and on. It was hard not to stop singing and listen throughout the night.

Chris Allman and Mark Trammell backed up Sandi Payton as she played and sang "I Must Tell Jesus." We sang "Jesus Paid It All" and Gerald had the balcony level sing for the main level and then the main level sing for the balcony. It was so sweet to hear all those voices just a cappella.

Here's a clip of the night of "His Eye Is on the Sparrow" and "It Is Well," my favorite hymn of the night -

2018 Southern Gospel Picnic - Silver Dollar City - Day 4

This morning started off with hearing Dr. Dennis Swanberg speak in the Opera House. I also got to see The Old Paths and the Hoppers today. Here are a few highlights from the day -

The Old Paths

It's hard to narrow this list down to just a few. These guys are sounding better than ever. They did a mix of songs from their newest project with a few familiar favorites. Steve even was featured on a song that he did with Gold City, "Preach the Word." Daniel brought out his sax for a few songs as well. It was great to see the audience so responsive and into the sets after the quartet's return to Silver Dollar City after their time off the road.

• "God's Great"
• "Love Them to Jesus"
• "Tangled in the Middle"
• "Broken People Like Me"
• "I Wanna Get Closer"
• "Preach the Word"
• "I Bowed on my Knees and Cried Holy"

The Hoppers

The Hoppers took the stage with just Dean, Kim, Mike and Karlye for the first few songs. Dean introduced his parents and then Connie and then later Claude came out to join them.

• "Life Is Good"
• "Yahweh"
• "I Wouldn't Take Nothing for My Journey Now" - Love hear them singing songs from the first families of gospel music.
• "I've Come Too Far to Look Back" - Always a treat to hear Connie sing this song!
• "Jerusalem"
• "Something's Happening" - They knock this song out of the park every time. 
• "He Is Mine, and I Am His" - This has become one of my favorite songs. I love their version of this song. 
• "My Ransom" - It's good to hear Karlye step up and sing one by herself. She's got a great voice.
• "Shoutin' Time" - This is always a fun one to hear at Echo Hollow, and of course, they repeated the chorus several times. The entire audience was up clapping at the end!

2018 Southern Gospel Picnic at Silver Dollar City - Day 3

I was able to catch two groups today - the Talleys and Triumphant Quartet. The Talleys sang in Red Gold Hall this afternoon and then Triumphant closed the night off down in Echo Hollow.

Here are a few highlights from the day -


Talleys

• "There Is Coming a Day" - They sang this one by request. A couple had told them of a family member who passed away and this was the only song they played. 
• "The Broken Ones"
• "He's Alive"
• "Grab Your Umbrella" - Love this new song from them. It's a fun one to see staged!
• "Naaman" - This is one of my favorites to get to hear live!
• "When the Answer Is No" - I loved getting to hear Debra sing this one from their latest project. One of my favorites from Finest Hour. 
• "People in the Line"
• "When Death Was Arrested - This was such a great worship moment. I'm glad they have taken this song to the Southern Gospel world. 

Triumphant Quartet

• "Thankful, So Thankful" 
• "Saved By Grace"
• "Chain Breaker" - This is a song that has taken off in the Southern Gospel world. It resonates with so many people and it's always so evident when you see it live. 
• "Hallelujah" 
• "Amazing God"
• "When the Trumpet Sounds"
• "Long, Black Train" - Eric does an incredible job on this song!
• "I Can Only Imagine" - I had never heard them sing this one live, so it was so good to hear Scotty on this song.
• "The Old White Flag" - Always a fun one especially at Echo Hollow!

2018 Southern Gospel Picnic at Silver Dollar City - Day 2

Today was jam packed full of good music. Kudos to D.A. Callaway and the Silver Dollar City staff for a stellar lineup today. It was hard to be able to see as much as I wanted! I was able to see five different artists. Here are the highlights of the day -


Brian Free & Assurance

• "He Can Take It" - This is becoming one of my favorite BFA songs. The message of this song hits home every time.
• "Beyond Amazed"
• "What a Beautiful Day" - Brian let the high part on this song soar, and it was the first concert of the day!
• "Say Amen" - Another favorite! It's always great to hear how the crowd gets into this song as a testament to what God has done in their lives. 

The Erwins

• Today marked the release of their new project Watch & See. Ernie Haase surprised them at their first show and to congratulate them on the release, ask them to sign the CD and then invite them to sing at Echo Hollow that night with Signature Sound. 
• We got to hear several of their new songs. I cannot wait to listen to the full project - on repeat. Every song they sang was incredible! - 
• "Glorious, Amazing God"
• "Watch & See" - This is the title and first single. I'm anxious to see it make its way to the top of the charts!
• "After the Storm" - Katie did an amazing job on this song. Her voice is mature beyond her 17 years. 
• "Hallelujahs Never End" 
• "In the House of the Lord" - I loved the lighting effects they used with song!

Joseph Habedank

• "Jailbreak"
• "Never, No Never" - I was glad he staged this on from his Welcome Home project.
• "There Is a Fountain" - This has become one of my favorite hymns and he does such a great job on this one. 
• "Beauty of the Blood" - Joseph shared a little bit of his testimony before this song. I love hearing his share his heart and the story of how God has worked in his life. I appreciate how transparent Joseph has always been and how he's using his story to encourage others. 
• "Here He Comes" - He ended the set with this song. I love the energy and the message of this song.

Karen Peck & New River

• "Pray Now"
• "It Is Well" - Grant sang this one by himself and it was incredible!
• "Gotta Be Saved" - I'm glad I got to hear this one live. This song is the #1 song for the group for September, written by Karen, Joseph Habedank and Wayne Haun. 
• "I Am Blessed" - The more I hear this song, the more I fall in love with it. I love hearing Karen sing this song!
• "Victory Is Mine" 
• "Four Days Late"
• "I Know I'll Be There" - This is such a powerful song! They ended their last show with this song. 

Ernie Haase & Signature Sound

We unfortunately had to leave a little early tonight, but it was a treat to hear so many songs live for the first time from EHSS's Clear Skies project.

• "Clear Skies" - The funny part of this song was it started to sprinkle rain a little bit and umbrellas and ponchos started coming out right before this song. So they sang this and then they got to this line - "Sometimes this life gives you thunder and then you get caught in the rain." And everyone, EHSS included, couldn't help but laugh. Thankfully it never did really rain and the sprinkling didn't last long!
• "Give Me Jesus" - This was the song of the night for me. I love the simple message of this song. It's exactly the simple motto that we all need to be reminded of daily.
• "Heaven Is"
• "Sailing With Jesus"
• "Ol Man River" - Paul sang this from his new solo project. He does an incredible job on this song from Showboat.
• "Then Came the Morning" - This might have been the moment of the night to hear them sing this right before intermission. It's such a powerful song and I love that they are staging it!

2018 Southern Gospel Picnic Day One - Showers of Blessing

The first day of the 2018 Southern Gospel Picnic at Silver Dollar City. If you've read my blog in previous years, you know this is an event I look forward to every year. It's the event that really drew me into the music and enabled me to see many of my favorite artists live for the first time.

The groups I saw on park today were - Jim Brady Trio, the Perrys, Southern Raised and the Isaacs. After tonight, I'm adding the Isaacs to the list of groups I've sat in the rain to watch. I feel like that list grows each year, but it was well worth it. Here are highlights from each group - 

Jim Brady Trio

• "Calvary" - This is a song from their brand new project that Melissa wrote. It's such a powerful song that I feel like is going to become a staple in their sets.
• "Sounds Like Home To Me" - They repeated the chorus a cappella on this one and it was amazing!!
• "The Greatest of All Miracles" - I love to hear Melissa sing this song! This is one of my all-time favorites
• "Little Things" - This was another new one that Jim wrote in honor of his dad. This was a great song that Jim sang and played guitar on. The previews of their new project I got today made me really excited to hear this full album!
• "Homesick of Heaven"

The Perrys

• It was good to hear them go back and do a few songs from Through the Night - "One of Those Mornings" and "I Got a Hold of God This Morning."
• "Did I Mention"
• "Damascus Road" - This is always a fun one to see and hear live!
• "If You Knew Him"
• "Find Me Faithful" - Libbi gave a little bit of testimony before this song sharing about how you have to choose joy daily after all they have been through this year. 

Southern Raised

• "Glorious Day"
• "Amazing Grace"
• I have only seen this group a few times, but their talent amazes me every time from vocals to their playing ability.

The Isaacs

Of course right before the Echo Hollow show, the heavens open and rain comes down. It had been raining off and on during the day, but when the shows are inside it doesn't affect you as when you have to sit in it. Thankfully, the rain never got very hard and it did clear up for most of the show. 

• Their new project features some newly recorded favorite songs, so it was good to hear some of those live again - "I Have a Father Who Can," "By His Stripes" and "
• "From the Depths of My Heart"
• "I'm Gonna Love You Through It" - I remember them debuting this song at Silver Dollar City several years ago. Lily read the excerpt from her book of when she found out she had cancer and how her family was there for her. Love this song and thankful it's gotten some recent new life on social media.
• "Stand Still" - I've always been a big fan of this song, but the message just really hit home tonight.
• "Walk On"
• "It Is Well With My Soul" - Love hearing this sing this a capella! Definitely the moment of the night!
• "He Ain't Never Done Me Nothing But Good"

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?

Bowling Family and Bowling Sisters - Concert Recap - Clinton, Ark. 2018

At the end of July, the Bowling Family made a stop in Clinton, Arkansas. The Bowling Family and Bowling Sisters were part of a larger event with a few local groups and singers. It had been more than a year since I had seen this sweet family. Not only are they incredibly talented, but you know that when you come to a Bowling Family concert, you will have church. That night the Clinton High School auditorium was turned into a worship service.

The girls were featured at the beginning of the night and had a full set. These girls sound amazing together. Their sister harmony is on point. They sang several songs from theirThe Beginning project including, "Stronger," "He'll Do It Again," "At the Cross" and "Higher Ground." Their a cappella arrangement of "At the Cross" is incredible!

A local group called May Garden sang several familiar favorites like "When God Dips His Love" and "Chain Breaker" before the Bowlings took the stage.

The Bowling Family took the stage and started with an old favorite, "I'm on the Battlefield." It was really good to hear them sing a mix of older songs and some of their newest singles. Kelly was featured on "I Know Enough," but they also pulled up an older feature of Kelly's "A Miracle Today." This song has always been one of my favorites, so it was so good to hear it live!


Hope pulled double duty singing both with her parents and sisters. She was featured on "One Glorious Moment of Faith." It was great to hear her sing this one. After it being so long since I had seen them, it was evident how much Hope has grown as a singer!

Of course, Mike pulled out a few Hinson classics but I also loved hearing him on "I Was There," one of the highlights from their Moments Like These project. And he also sang "The Lighthouse" by request. He's probably my favorite person to hear sing this song.

They also sang one of their first big hits - "Your Cries Have Awoken the Master." I forgot how powerful that song is. It's an incredible reminder of how God always hears and He knows our voices. In those moments when we keep praying, He is hearing and working. I loved getting to hear it live again.

They ended the night with "I Never Shall Forget the Day." It was such a great night of gospel music and worship!

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

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

• The Ball Brothers announced the departure of Matt Davis. Matt has been with the group two and a half years. Anyone interested in auditioning can send a resume, one mp3 and/or youtube links to: theballbrothers@hotmail.com.
• The 2018 Dove Award nominations were announced this week. Southern Gospel nominations include -

Southern Gospel Artist of the Year

• Bradley Walker
• Gaither Vocal Band
• Joseph Habedank
• Karen Peck & New River
• Mark Lowry

Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year

• "He Can Take It" - Brian Free & Assurance/ Jeff Bumgardner, Kenna Turner West and Sue Smith
• "Clear Skies" - Ernie Haase & Signature Sound/ Ernie Haase, Joel Lindsey and Wayne Haun
• "Hallelujah Band" - Gaither Vocal Band/ Becca Mizell, Sam Mizell
• "Washed By the Water" - Jason Crabb/ Dave Barnes, Jason Crabb and Jordan Reynolds
• "Just When You Thought" - Joseph Habedank/ Joseph Habedank, Michael Farren and Wayne Haun

Bluegrass/ Country/ Roots Recorded Song of the Year

• “I Will Someday”  – Bradley Walker/ Chris Stapleton, Garnet Bowman, Morgane Hayes and Ronnie Bowman
• “Chain Breaker”– Gaither Vocal Band/ Jonathan Smith, Mia Fieldes and Zach Williams
• “Jailbreak” – Joseph Habedank/ Gerald Crabb and Joseph Habedank
• “Dinner on the Ground” – Little Roy & Lizzy Show/ Jeff Bumgardner, Joel Lindsey and Wayne Haun
• “Daddy And Son” – The Nelons/ Dony McGuire, Jason Clark and Reba Rambo-McGuire

Southern Gospel Album of the Year

• Clear Skies – Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
• We Have This Moment – Gaither Vocal Band
• Still Happy – Goodman Revival
• Hope For All Nations – Karen Peck & New River
• What’s Not To Love?– Mark Lowry

Bluegrass/ Country/ Roots Album of the Year

• Blessed, Hymns and Songs of Faith – Bradley Walker
• Unexpected – Jason Crabb
• Sing It Again, A Collection of Favorites – Jeff & Sheri Easter
• Going Home– Little Roy & Lizzy Show

For all Dove nominees, go to doveawards.com/awards/2018-nominees/

Anything I've missed?

Fun Clip Friday - Avenue Trio

Avenue Trio is a new group with some familiar faces coming on the Southern Gospel scene. The group consists of Kasey Kemp, Corey Lackey and Jacob Lagesse. Here's a song from a recent concert. Enjoy and be sure sure to check them out when they might be coming to a city near you at www.avenuetrio.com!

LeFevre Quartet Concert Recap - July 2018

The LeFevre Quartet made a stop in Arkansas a few weeks ago also in Pine Bluff. It was good to hear all eight songs from their newest project Ascending live. The group consists of Mike LeFevre, Jordan LeFevre, Jeremy Peace and Keith Plott. I rarely get to see this quartet in full concerts by themselves and at a multi-group event, so it was really good to hear about an hour and a half of great quartet singing!

Here are a few highlights of the night -

• "I'm Gonna Be Movin'"
• "Sun's Gonna Come Up" - I love this new song from their latest project. It's also their first single.
• "Silver and Gold" - This is such a fun song featuring Keith.
• "A Rugged Old Cross"
• "Oh What a Savior"
• "I'll See You at the House" - Mike talked about his mom before this song. She passed away last year. It was such a touching tribute, and it's such a beautiful song to remember loved ones who have gone on.
• "Let the Church Arise"
• "I Have It All"
• "Only Jesus" - This was one of my favorites from their new project, so I was really glad to hear it live. Jeremy did a great job on this song. 
• "Revival" - They ended the night with this song. Mike mentioned that Jordan hadn't been feeling well, but he still stepped up to sing this one and did a great job. 

Make sure and check out when these guys are going to be in your area!

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?

Fun Clip Friday - Interview with Scotty Inman

Check out this recent interview with Scotty Inman of Triumphant Quartet. He shares a little bit about how he got started in gospel music, songs, songwriting and much more. Watch this video for today's Fun Clip Friday!

Jim Brady Trio - Concert Recap

The Jim Brady Trio made a stop in Pine Bluff, Arkansas in late June. I hadn't seen this group since convention last year, so it was good to see and hear them live again!

Here are some of my favorite moments of the night -

• "Calvary" - I had never heard Melissa sing this song live. It was amazing! Definitely the highlight of the night. This is on their Promises project. 
• "Homesick for Heaven"
• "That Sounds Like Home to Me" - They sang this one and then did the chorus again a cappella. It made for an incredible moment!
• "What a Day That Will Be" - Layke was featured on this song with just Melissa on the keyboard.
• "Wherever I Am"
• "Every Cry Is Heard" - Love this song, probably one of my favorites that Jim has written. He shared a little bit of the story behind the song and all that his family had been through during the time.

Don't miss this group when they are in your area!

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidbits - July 21

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

• If you have not checked out the Southern Gospel News Podcast, be sure to check it out here.
• There will be a special benefit concert for songwriter Marcia Henry at 7 p.m. on August 10 at Victory Baptist Church in North Augusta, SC. Performers will include Jeff and Sheri Easter, Bowling Family, Bowling Sisters and Poet Voices.

Anything I've missed?

Fun Clip Friday - Matt Fouch and Michael Helwig

Matt Fouch has his very popular On the Couch With Fouch interview series. He releases artist interviews once a month on Facebook and YouTube. However, he also some Facebook Live interviews with artists as well. Check out this recent interview with Michael Helwig for today's Fun Clip Friday!

East to West - Endless Highway - CD Review

Endless Highway might be a new name, but the group is not new. Last year the Joylanders became Endless Highway, so this is actually their first CD with the new name. For this project the younger two generations of the family take center stage - Jason and Vanessa Griggs with their children Allison and Jay.

The album kicks off with "Highway to Heaven," which doesn't really deviate from the versions you are used to hearing. From there, it goes to "Under the Sea," which is a nice ballad featuring 17-year-old Allison. Her take on this song makes you forget she's only 17. It's definitely one of the standout tracks on the project. The song is a beautiful reminder of grace and how far we are removed from our failures and sins through the power of Christ.

"It's His Story" is the first single from the project and features Jay. It's a fun, country song that picks up in the second half with some fun horn arrangements. I can see why they picked this for the first single. It's a catchy song that I predict will do really well for them.

Allison really steps up on this project. She's also featured on "This Is the Grace I Know," which has a different sound from the other songs on the project, but it's another highlight of the project.

Vanessa is featured on "Unbroken Promise." She has a really nice, rich alto voice. The beautiful lyrics of the song remind us of how faithful God is.

"Count It All Joy" is another country song that you'll find yourself tapping your foot along to. The song features Jason and suits his voice really well. I think this song would also do really well on radio.

"The Richest Crown" is a ballad that features Jay but also really shows off the family blend on the chorus. This is probably my favorite ballad of the project. Jay also steps out on "Beautiful Scars of Love," which is one of the more progressive songs on the project. I like how it added a section of "At the Cross" toward the end of the song.

"Out of the Deep" reminds me of Nicole Nordeman songs. I really like the style of the song, but it is different from the rest of the project.

I think with East to West Endless Highway is definitely making its mark in gospel music. I look for great things from this group in the future!


Songs to Turn Up - "Count It All Joy" and "It's His Story"
Song to Put on Repeat - "This Is the Grace I Know"
Songs to Give a Second Listen - "Unbroken Promise" and "Out of the Deep"
Song That Will Take You to Church - "The Richest Crown"


Song List -
1. "Highway to Heaven"
2. "Under the Sea"
3. "It's His Story"
4. "This Is the Grace I Know"
5. "Unbroken Promise"
6. "Count It All Joy"
7. "The Richest Crown"
8. "I've Got the Son in My Eyes"
9. "Go Ahead and Shout"
10. "Beautiful Scars of Love"
11. "Out of the Deep"

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidbits - July 14

Here are news items from this week in Southern Gospel -

• The 2018 inductees for the Tri-State Gospel Music Hall Of Fame include Mike Holcomb, Tracy Stuffle and Randy Perry. The ceremony will be held on August 4 at Parkway Baptist Temple Church in Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia.
• Thomas Floyd “Tommy” Howe Jr., who filled in on many occasions with The Masters V, Statesmen, Blackwood Brothers, and JD Sumner & The Stamps, passed away on June 29, 2018. His memorial service will be held on Monday.

Anything I've missed?

Fun Clip Friday - Gerald Wolfe and Mark Lowry

Here's a recent Monday with Mark video where Mark interviews Gerald Wolfe. He has a great interview with Gerald talking about the hymn sing tour, George Younce, Greater Vision and much more!

Watch it below for today's Fun Clip Friday!

A Night With 11th Hour - Concert Review

Last month, I got the chance to see 11th Hour in Sheridan, Arkansas. Logan Smith had just accepted the position with 11th Hour, but was at Matthew Gooch's wedding that weekend. KC Brandon filled in for the group that weekend.

Here are a few highlights from the concert -

• "Power in Prayer" - This was my first time hearing this song in person. It's such an incredibly powerful song!
• "Doin' What's Right"
• "Let Grace In" - Jaquita shared a little bit about this song before singing it. She wrote the song several years ago, but talked about how much the song had come to mean to her recently. I love hearing a little bit of the story behind the song and how God uses different songs at different times not only to minister to us but to minister to the writers and the singers. 
• "He Sees What We Don't" - I always love hearing this song. This song is one of my favorite gospel songs, period. 
• "Way Maker" - They sang this one just around the keyboard, incredible moment!
• "My God Will Deliver Me" - They got the pastor of the church up to sing with them on this one. He did a great job!
• "You Can Start All Over Again"- They featured KC on this one. It was another great worship moment. I hadn't heard KC before, but he's a great talent both vocally and on the piano. 
• "Take Me to the King"
• "I Trust" - Love hearing Jaquita sing this song, another song that she wrote.
• "He Welcomes the Beggar" - This has become one of my favorite 11th Hour songs!

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidibits - July 7

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

• Keep the Lovelace family in your prayers. Tim's dad, Harold, passed away on Sunday, July 1. The service was held on Thursday.
• The final round of voting for the Singing News Fan Awards ends on Friday, July 13. Subscribers can vote now here.
• Jason Crabb was featured on the Jesus Calling podcast. You can listen to it here.

Anything I've missed?

Fun Clip Friday - Mark Trammell Quartet SGMA

The Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame announcements were made this week. Check out this clip that Diana Brantley captured when they announced to the Memphis Quartet Show that Mark Trammell was one of this year's inductees!

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

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

• Bryan Elliot announced his resignation from Gold City. He has been the group's piano player for eight years. He plans to take some time off the road and minister with his wife Kelly. 
• Kasey Kemp, Corey Lackey and Jacob Lagesse have now formed Avenue Trio. The group is planning its debut album to be released this summer.
• The Troy Burns Family announced the additions of Cole Watson and Ethan McNelly to the group. 
• Long-time Singing News columnist Bob Crawford has been hospitalized following complications from a fall at his home on Sunday. 
• Congratulations to Jonathan Taylor who announced his engagement to Lynsey Vicars this week. The two are planning an April wedding.

Anything I've missed?

Ascending - The LeFevre Quartet - CD Review

The LeFevre Quartet release Ascending in April. This is the second project with the current lineup of Mike LeFevre, Jordan LeFevre, Jeremy Peace and Keith Plott. This project might be a bit shorter in terms of number of songs, but not short on the quality of music coming from this group.

The project starts with "I Have It All," which is just a great quartet number. The song really shows the blend this lineup of the quartet has.

"Revival" goes toward the more progressive sound of Southern Gospel. I can't wait to see this one live! The song was actually recorded previously by Contemporary Christian artist Third Day; however, with their version it sounds like it was meant for the Southern Gospel flair.

Jordan is featured on "A Rugged Old Cross," which is definitely a highlight of the project. Jordan is probably one of the most underrated lead singers in the industry.

"I'll See You at the House" will take you back. It's a song that will immediately cause a person to come to mind who has gone on to Heaven. Mike does an incredible job of communicating this emotionally-charged song.

"Sailing Away" will also take you back to previous decades of Southern Gospel. It sounds like it would fit in the classic gospel quartet. It lets Jeremy Peace step out and show off his high tenor.

"Sun's Gonna Come Up in the Morning" is the first single from the project, and I can see why. The song was written by Lee Black and Scotty Inman. This is such a catchy song that you'll find yourself humming and singing over and over.

In a project of mostly uptempo songs, "Only Jesus" stands out as a highlight. It's a beautiful reminder that only Jesus can truly change our lives - restore joy, turn our lives around, fix our brokenness.

We get to hear from bass singer Keith Plott on "Silver and Gold." It's a great uptempo, toe-tapper to end the project on. This is another one that I can't wait to hear and see live.


Song to Turn Up - "I Have It All"
Song to Put on Repeat - "Sun's Gonna Come Up in the Morning"
Song That Will Take You to Church - "Only Jesus"


Song List -
1. "I Have It All"
2. "Revival"
3. "A Rugged Old Cross"
4. "I'll See You at the House"
5. "Sailing Away"
6. "Sun's Gonna Come Up"
7. "Only Jesus"
8. "Silver and Gold"

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidbits - June 9

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

• Congratulations to Amber Nelon Thompson and Nathan Kitsler who announced their engagement.
• See the latest video from Matt Fouch's On the Couch With Fouch, which is an interview with Clayton Inman of Triumphant Quartet. Watch it here.

Anything I've missed?

Night Full of Requests - Browders Concert Recap

The Browders made a rare trip to Arkansas last week. They were at Dayspring Baptist Church in Ward. This was actually my first time to see the group in a full concert. Normally, it's only a 20-30 minute set at Silver Dollar City once a year. It was good to get the full concert experience Thursday night.

One of the things I love about this group was the live band. You don't realize how much that adds to a concert until you experience it.

Another thing about this group is that they have set records for #1 songs. The full concert experience was full of their #1s and most requested songs. Despite not hearing them live much, there were only a few songs that I was not very familiar with because of their wide radio play.

Here are a few highlights of the concert -

• "I'll Lift Up His Name Again" - This was the opening song, and right away you could tell the audience was glad to hear this one live! This is such a great song!
• "Message of the Cross" - It was good to hear Sonya sing this one. Also, major kudos to Sonya for being in high heels the full concert at eight months pregnant. 
• "I Am So Blessed" - I love hearing Tommy Browder sing this song and hear his testimony. It's such a reminder of just how blessed we are.
• "Praise You in This Valley"
• "Put It in God's Hands" - This has probably become my favorite Browders song!
• "Time Machine" - They were about to wrap up. Matthew said that they had gotten in all the requests but a young voice from the back corrected him that they had not sung "Time Machine" yet. Haha, and we were all glad he did!

In Case You Missed It - News and Tidbits - June 2

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

• Congratulations to Lindsey Graham, who received her Doctorate of Worship Studies from Liberty University’s School of Music on May 19, 2018. 
• Congratulations also to Matthew Gooch (Karen Peck & New River) who married Preslee Mortenson on Saturday, June 2 in Lexington, Kentucky.
• Chuck Pettyjohn announced his resignation from the Blackwood Quartet. He will be filling in when needed and doing some solo dates. 
• Master's Voice announced that baritone Stan Watson is leaving the group.

Anything I've missed?

Fun Clip Friday - Mondays with Mark

Mark Lowry has started a new video series called "Mondays with Mark." He's had several notable guests so far including the Jim Brady Trio,  Jeff and Sheri Easter and Michael English. Here's one video from a couple of weeks ago with Tribute Quartet. Enjoy for today's Fun Clip Friday!

Unexpected - Jason Crabb - CD Review

Jason Crabb released Unexpected in April. The project is his fourth mainstream solo release, and I think it's his best one yet! Jason brings a sound to Southern Gospel that is uniquely his own.

"Expect the Unexpected" kicks the project off. This catchy song has a more modern country feel. This is the perfect opening song.

It slows back down with "Day One." There's a nice vulnerability in Jason's deliverance of this song. It's a yearning to go back to the moment when Jesus first saved us - when life was simpler, it was easier to hear His voice, when we first experience His love.

Jason has a little help on "Chose to Be My Friend" from Gary LeVox (with Rascal Flatts). This is probably one of my favorite songs on the album. Gary's voice is so recognizable, but the two complement each other really well. Definitely a track not to skip listening to! Gary LeVox was not the only guest vocalist on the project. Jason is joined by Kaya Jones on "Let It Be Love." I'll confess though I had to Google her to see who she was.

"Short Are the Years" is a song that I can see also doing well on mainstream country radio. It's a song that is reminiscent of parenthood. I really like the play on the words with the song - long are the days with all the extra activities, but short are the years when you look back. I think this a great song for Jason with his girls now into their teen years.

"Washed By the Water" is a more progressive sounding song. I like it starts with the guitar and then goes to the brass on the chorus. "Love Will Have the Final Word" is also a more uptempo, progressive song. These songs are great on the album, but with Jason's live band, I know live will be even better!

"He Made You" is another one of my favorites. It's a powerful reminder that God always sees the next step in our lives and is working things out for our good. It's a love song that has a similar message to "When God Made You." However, I love some of the creation comparisons at the beginning of this song that doesn't make it strictly a love song. "He was thinking about the dark when He made the sun" and "He was thinking about forever before He started on day one." It's a beautiful reminder that God knows us from beginning to end. Also, I think I hear Sonya Isaacs Yeary helping him with some background vocals on this song.

I had the chance to hear "The Love in Your Heart Knows the Way" at NQC last year. It's a nice way to close the album. It brings a lot of the messages from the album full circle. The choir backing him up contains his daughters and nieces, which is a great touch!


Songs to Put on Repeat - "Chose to Be My Friend" and "He Made You"
Songs to Turn Up - "Expect the Unexpected" and "Washed By the Water"



Song List -
1. "Expect the Unexpected"
2. "Day One"
3. "Chose to Be My Friend"
4. "Mercy We Can't Go Beyond"
5. "Let It Be Love"
6. "Short Are the Years"
7. "Washed by the Water"
8. "He Made You"
9. "Love Will Have the Final Word"
10. "The Love in Your Heart Knows the Way"