2007
March
RSI Music Recording Artist, Gordon Mote Enjoying A Busy & Exciting Spring
This nomination comes as Mote is in the midst of a very busy Spring schedule. In addition to being featured on more than 20 dates throughout April, May and June with the popular Gaither Vocal Band and Gaither Homecoming Tour, RSI recording artist, Gordon Mote will also be featured on a select number of solo dates, as he anxiously awaits the release of a brand new recording, which debuts in mid-May, titled Don’t Let Me Miss The Glory. On the new recording, Mote is joined by several talented recording artists and vocalists, including the Gaither Vocal Band, the Isaacs, Michael Sykes and fellow RSI recording artist, Charlotte Ritchie, as well as Grammy Award winning female vocalist, Alison Krauss.
In fact, Mote and Krauss are teaming up for quite a few events this Spring. This week Mote travels to New York City to join Krauss on the popular Imus In The Morning program on Tuesday, April 3. The nationally syndicated radio program also airs on MSNBC each weekday. Mote will join Krauss on four songs, with the first song scheduled to take place just after 7:30am (Eastern time).
Following their performance in New York, Mote will join Krauss in Nashville on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday, April 7. The Grand Ole Opry airs on the Great American Country Network. Visit http://www.opry.com for additional information.
Additional information regarding Gordon Mote or RSI Music may be obtained at http://www.rsimusicgroup.com
Rod Burton In Studio
http://www.rodburtonmusic.com
http://www.eddiecrook.com
Hoppers to film 50th Anniversary in High Definition
During the anniversary concert, a professional video recording crew will fully document this half-century achievement; and the filming will take place at the landmark where it all began for the Hoppers. It was at Reynolds Auditorium, in 1956, where Claude Hopper first heard and experienced Southern Gospel music in a live setting. The rest is, as they say, history.
For the occasion, there will be seven cameras, a 40 foot high-definition truck and a team of media professionals on hand to film the evening in ultra-quality high definition. “This will be a historic night for the Hoppers and their fans. It is amazing to me that this American family is celebrating such a major milestone; and, at the same time, they are all still passionate and creative about what they do -- singing and sharing the Good News of Christ,” said Dennis Sparks, booking manager for musical family.
For more information, call Ray Flynn Promotions toll free at 1-888-238-6858; or see http://www.thehoppers.com for additional information.
Venue Change - Chuck Wagon Gang Reunion
There has been a change in venue for the Chuck Wagon Gang Fan Reunion. The event will take place Saturday, April 21st, 2:00 PM at the Holiday Inn Convention Center, Bristol, VA (Exit 7). Doors will open at 1:00 PM. A Lunch buffet is available starting at 11AM and it is not more than 200 feet from the ballroom.Tickets: $12.00 For tickets or more information, call 276-591-5800.
CRADLE OF BLUEGRASS MUSIC TRAIL ANNOUNCED - Kenny Bishop listed among performers
FRANKFORT, KY— Kentucky is the home of Bluegrass music and a great state park system. Put those two together and you have something special. That's the idea behind the “Cradle of Bluegrass Music Trail” – a series of four Bluegrass concerts held at three state resort parks and the Frankfort Convention Center. The headliner for the April 21 Frankfort Convention Center show will be the legendary Earl Scruggs, with a Kentucky legend, Tom T. Hall, serving as master of ceremonies.The series also includes some well-known Kentucky musicians – Don Rigsby, Larry Cordle, Bobby Osborne, Grammy and Dove Award-nominated Kenny Bishop, Melvin Goins, the Grascals and J.D. Crowe and the New South.
“We're excited about offering bluegrass concerts at our state resort parks,” said Parks Commissioner J.T. Miller. “We think this will add to the variety of entertainment and programming available at the parks.”
"Kentucky is my home," Kenny Bishop said. "Since being a part of a statewide campaign, and being involved in state government, I've come to appreciate, even more than I already did, the beauty and diversity of the landscape, the people and the music of our great commonwealth. I'm delighted to be a part of this great concert series, and even more thrilled to be on stage with so many legendary bluegrass and country artists."
The Grascals’ “Long List of Heartaches” album, nominated for a Grammy, is at the top of the National Bluegrass Survey, according to Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine. J.D. Crowe’s “Lefty’s Old Guitar” is second followed by “Hillbilly Heartache” by Don Rigsby and Midnight Call.
The series kicks off April 7 at Rough River Dam State Resort Park near Leitchfield. Following the Frankfort Convention Center show April 21, there will be an April 28 concert at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park near Prestonsburg and then a May 19 show at General Butler State Resort Park at Carrollton.
The concerts, sponsored by the Kentucky State Parks and America's Bluegrass, Inc., all start at 1 p.m. local time and will feature a combination of Bluegrass and gospel music.
Lodging packages will be offered at the three state park locations that will include the concert, a night's lodging, meals and an opportunity to meet the entertainers.
Ticket prices for the April 21 concert at Frankfort will be $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Prices for each of the three concerts at state resort parks will be $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Go to http://www.parks.ky.gov/bluegrass.htm for a complete list of performers, concert locations and ticket information.
Kenny Bishop: http://www.kennybishop.com
Kentucky State Parks: http://www.parks.ky.gov
Cradle of Bluegrass: http://www.parks.ky.gov/bluegrass.htm
Amy Roth Completes Vocals
http://www.amyroth.net
http://www.eddiecrook.com
Prayer Request for C.O. Stegall
C. O. Stegall, bass singer for The Providentials Quartet, will be undergoing surgery to repair two aneursyms on his aorta. The surgery will be next Wednesday at Baptist Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi. C. O. has sung with multiple groups throughout the Mississippi area for 44 years.Congratulations to Michael and Vicki Booth
Michael and Vicki have another Booth on the way. Another boy will be added to the family making three boys. The baby is due July 2, 2007 and they are in the process of picking out names. Michael was heard commentng that they have, "Jonathan who's seven, Christian who's eleven, and then "oops" on the way."Crabb Family Return to XM Radio
Coming up on Daniel Britt & Friends, the week of 04/02/07: The Crabb Family says farewell. The world heard the announcement in late '06 that the kids would cease their touring and would pursue their individual ministries. Daniel Britt sat down with the entire clan of Crabbs and discussed their history, their final tour, and their future. Call it an impromptu "Crabb staff meeting" of sorts, but you get to sit in and hear different ideas tossed around as to what the future may possibly hold. It's an hour of fun, surprises, and good music that spans the highly successful career of The Crabb Family!Daniel Britt & Friends is heard each week throughout the U.S. and Canada on XM Satellite Radio's enLighten 34 - Mondays at 7PM ET, Thursdays at 10PM ET, and Saturdays at 12 Noon ET. You can also hear it online at xmradio.com, at AOL Radio, or with DirecTV on channel 828. After the broadcast, you can download the extended interview from http://www.danielbritt.com
Mark Bishop’s New Project: Abundant Sunshine
Look for Mark’s new single “Put Wings Upon Your Problems” on the new Crossroads April Airplay Sampler.
Special Prayer Request for Mark Trammell Trio
Larry Sparks, LaResa Trammell's step-father, suffered a massive stroke today. He has being transferred to a hospital in Huntsville, AL at this time. Please pray for LeResa and the family during this difficult timeTK & McRae Added as Featured Performer for 2007 SGN Music Awards Celebration
TK & McRae is one of the newest names in Southern Gospel music. The group was formed by the merger of two of Southern Gospel’s most beloved groups – First Love and The McRaes. With the combined talents of Troy & Katy Peach, Amanda Till, and Annie McRae, the group is set to take the Gospel music scene by storm.
The McRaes have won Female Group of the Year two years in a row, and are nominated for the award again this year. The group was also nominated for three additional awards, including Song of the Year (for “He Knows My Name”), Progressive Southern Song of the Year (for “He Knows My Name”), and Country/Bluegrass Song of the Year (for “The Word of the Lord”).
“We are happy to include such an exciting new group to our awards program,” mentioned Deon Unthank of SoGospelNews.com. “We’ve already heard some great sounds coming from this group. They will be an outstanding addition to our program!”
Additional performers for the awards program include Gold City, Talley Trio, Booth Brothers, Dove Brothers Quartet, Mike & Kelly Bowling, Three Bridges, the Dunaways, Kim Collingsworth, The Imperials, Beloved, and the Dills.
Hosting the Awards Celebration this year will be last year’s hosts, Chris Unthank and Southern Gospel singer/songwriter/comedienne Sondra Burnett. Burnett will also be performing a selection from her nominated project Family Reunion.
The 2007 SGN Music Awards Celebration will be held at River of Life Church in Smyrna, Tennessee, on Tuesday, April 17, 2006. The program will start promptly at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Celebration is free to the public.
Gold City led all artist nominees this year with a record setting 12 nominations. Following behind Gold City were last year’s big winners the Booth Brothers and popular artist Dove Brothers Quartet with eight nominations apiece. Brian Free & Assurance and Mike & Kelly Bowling (formerly known as the Mike Bowling Group) both received six nominations. Receiving five nominations apiece were the Crabb Family, Three Bridges, and the Talley Trio. Three artists earned four nominations apiece – Hoppers, Karen Peck & New River, and the McRaes. TaRanda Greene and JBIF (Jody Brown Indian Family) both earned three nominations, while the Collingsworth Family, Hope’s Call, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Young Harmony, Mark Lowry, Stewart Varnado, Jeff & Sheri Easter, Mercy’s Mark, and the Greenes all received double nominations.
Songwriter and Booth Brothers baritone Jim Brady earned the most individual nominations for his work during 2006. In addition to landing in the Songwriter of the Year (Artist) category (an award he won last year), Jim earned an additional five nominations for his songwriting this year – bringing his total nominations to six. Earning five individual nominations were producer Roger Talley and songwriters Barry Weeks and Tony Wood. Michael Sykes, Daniel Riley, and Michael English all received four individual nominations for their work in 2006. Landing three individual nominations were Les Butler, Annie McRae, Chris Binion, Mike Bowling, Nick Bruno, Wayne Haun, and Jeff Collins.
The Pacesetter Award is awarded to any artist, individual, or organization which has shown great strides in the industry and has raised the bar for others. This year’s nominees for the 2007 Pacesetter are artist management company Big Ten Entertainment, Brian Free & Assurance, XM Satellite Radio’s Southern Gospel channel enLIGHTen 34, Gold City, and Salem Communications (home to Singing News Magazine, Homecoming Magazine, and the Solid Gospel radio network).
A full list of nominees and more information on the SGN Music Awards and past winners can be found at http://southerngospelnews.com.
About SouthernGospelNews.com
SouthernGospelNews.com has grown from relative obscurity to the industry's leading internet publication for Southern Gospel news and information in only a few short years. The site includes a wide variety of features, consisting of artist interviews, a weekly chart, late-breaking news, and much more.
Dove Brothers Quartet to Host Benefit Concert
In addition to the Dove Brothers Quartet, the Anchormen, Movin’ Up, the Southern Ambassadors, and Freddie Pierce will also be performing during the benefit concert. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m., and the concert will begin at 7:00 p.m.
The event will be held at the Greenville Convention Center in Greenville, North Carolina.
“This is a great opportunity for us to get together, support this church, and have a great time in the Lord all in one place and time,” mentioned McCray Dove of the Dove Brothers Quartet. “We encourage everyone to come out and help us rebuild this church. We know God is going to do mighty things at this concert!”
The Memorial Baptist Church houses the school where McCray Dove’s son attends.
More information on the benefit concert can be found at the Dove Brothers’ webpage.
The Dove Brothers Quartet were recently nominated for eight SGN Music Awards earlier this year. The popular quartet received nominations for Song of the Year (for “One More Miracle”), Album of the Year (for Never the Same), Male Group of the Year, Best Live Performer, Traditional Southern Song of the Year (“One More Miracle”), Traditional Southern Album of the Year (Never the Same), Special-Event Project of the Year (for Shout It Out), and Fan Favorite Artist of the Year. The group will be performing their current single, “I Can Pray,” at the SGN Music Awards Celebration on Tuesday, April 17, 2007, in Smyrna, Tennessee.
The Dove Brothers Quartet’s latest single, “I Can Pray” has been heating up the airwaves at Southern Gospel radio and has become the group’s fastest rising song to date. The song debuted in the Top 40 in the upcoming April issue of the Singing News Magazine and is currently at #3 on the SoGospelNews.com Top 40 Weekly Chart, the industry’s leading weekly chart.
Anyone can hear the song by visiting the group’s website or MySpace where the song is currently streaming.
Fans are encouraged to visit the Dove Brothers Quartet’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/dovebrothersquartet.
More information on the Dove Brothers Quartet can be found at http://dovebrothersquartet.com
About Dove Brothers Quartet
Voted Favorite Male Quartet of The Year by the Southern Gospel Music Association and the Singing News Fan Awards, the Dove Brothers Quartet’s high energy presentation and progressive arrangements reflect a tangible link to the good old days of gospel music. Their peers regard them as a class act representing the industry with dignity and respect. Their latest recording for Sonlite records is entitled Never the Same.
New Day Ministries & Southern Spin Entertainment Reach Publicity and Web Publishing Agreement
New Day is based out of southern Texas. The group features the outstanding vocal talent of Kelley Matthews and the husband and wife team of Bob and Pam Reeves. The group is involved in the Association of Music Ministries, South Texas Gospel Music Association, and the Gospel Music Artists Association. Kelley’s husband, Jim (an ordained minister), also travels with the group.
Pam Reeves of New Day said, “We have heard wonderful things about Southern Spin by others who have used their services. We believe this is going to be a wonderful working relationship, and we look forward to what God has in store for our group this year.”
“We are always looking for individuals and groups who are looking to make that next step in their ministry,” mentioned Amy Marie Unthank of Southern Spin Entertainment. “New Day is well on their way to becoming the next great Southern Gospel group. We are excited that they have partnered with us for this next year!”
The group’s newly designed webpage will be available in the coming weeks.
Southern Spin Entertainment is one of four divisions of the company SSE Group. The company is owned by Amy Marie Unthank and Chris D. Unthank. The company currently represents artists, companies, and organizations in all genres of Gospel music – including Dove Brothers Quartet, the Anchormen, Rick Webb Trio, The Imperials, SouthernGospelNews.com, Nick Bruno Productions, the Diamond Awards, myTeamABC, the Glovers, Sondra Burnett, Ed Crawford & the Mystery Men Quartet, HisSong, the Quicks, the Gardners, Sharron Kay King, Wendy Word + forgiven, The Pathfinders, Amazed, and many more.
More information on New Day can be found at http://www.newdayministriesonline.com.
About Southern Spin Entertainment
Southern Spin Entertainment is one of four divisions of the conglomerate SSE Group. Southern Spin Entertainment focuses on publicity and marketing for Southern and Country Gospel artists. The company currently represents over 40 artists, companies or organizations in all genres of Gospel music.
For more information on Southern Spin Entertainment, go to http://www.southernspin.com .
SSE Group’s four divisions include Southern Spin Entertainment, SSE Design Group, Southern Spin Artist Direction, and Southern Spin Radio. SSE Group currently owns and operates Glorious Creations, SGBlogNews.com, GospelMusings.com, and WorldofCM.com.
For more information on SSE Group, go to http://www.ssegrouponline.com.
Kenny Bishop Honored by the Kentucky State Senate
FRANKFORT, KY— Kenny Bishop was recently honored and recognized by the Kentucky State Senate for his contribution to the performing arts in the state. Bishop received a citation of recognition that was sponsored on the motion of senators Alice Forgy Kerr and Tom Jensen. The document cited Bishops recent Grammy nomination and two Dove Award nominations, as well as his latest self-titled release on Daywind Records.The Kentucky House of Representatives honored Bishop with a similar recognition back in January.
"I have several friends who serve in Kentucky's upper and lower legislative chambers," Bishop said. "They often express their appreciation and congratulations to me personally, and I am grateful. But to be recognized officially, and to have the certificate presented on the floor of the senate chamber is a special honor indeed. I am very moved and honored."
Bishop also opened the morning session of the state senate by singing the Lord's Prayer for the invocation.
Metro Artists Management Signs Bonita
Bonita Johnson is in that elite category of communicators who connect with everyone. Her music and heart allows her to transcend man-made denominational and ethnic lines. She is a true musical artist with a heart for God and for people. She is an award winning concert artist, including the winner of the Babbie Mason Music Conference and the winner of the Habitat for Humanity Search. She has ministered internationally, with performances in Poland, Guatemala, and Belize, as well as many of the most well-respected churches in America.
She has also served as the Worship Leader of the Christian Life Center in Atlanta and as the Music Minister of Victory Family Life Church. A favorite for churches, women’s ministries, and youth conferences, Bonita brings a fresh, energetic presence to each and every concert performance.
“I have always dreamed of representing one of those 'one name' artists, so we just call her Bonita!” Laughs Michael Goering of Metro. "Seriously, Bonita is one of the most gifted communicators I have seen. Every church in the country needs to experience her ministry."
Bonita's current tour is called Laugh Soul Loud and also features Humorist, Rick Griffin. The tour's website can be found at http://www.laughsoulloud.com. More information about Bonita and the Laugh Soul Loud tour can be found at http://www.metroartists.us. For scheduling information please contact the Michael Goering at , or call 888.428.2270.
Roger Bennett Funeral to be Streamed Live on the Internet
The Bennett family has decided that it would be a nice thing to offer to those who were not able to come. You can watch the funeral services by just clicking thru to the Brentwood Baptist website and then clicking on "live stream."
Jeff Crews Leaves Paid In Full
This is the first personnel change for Paid In Full in over fifteen years of ministry leaving founding members Lance Moore and Bradley Littlejohn at the helm. The tenor position will be supplied by Brock White of New Albany, Mississippi, until a permanent replacement is named.
Jeff would like to thank all of you, the Paid In Full family, for many years of support. Lance and Bradley thank Jeff for fifteen wonderful years, wishing him the very best, and thank you for your continued support of this ministry and look forward to great things ahead!
If you'd like contact Jeff, please send an email to
Rich Adkins In Studio
http://www.richadkins.com
http://www.eddiecrook.com
Ann Downing Set to Roll on New Television Show
Nashville, TN--Lights...camera...action! April 4th marks the day when veteran gospel music singer Ann Downing will begin a new venture in her forty-three year career. Downing is set to begin taping her own television show titled, "Reality Check" on that day, fulfilling a long-time dream of the singer."I've wanted to host a television show for a long time," Downing shares. "I'm so thrilled that it has finally come together...it looks like it's really going to happen, although I still have to pinch myself every now and then."
"Reality Check" will be a weekly 30 minute program showcasing Downing's personable, down-to-earth style in an interview-type format while also spotlighting her musical talents.
Show producer and Ann's Manager, Laurie Winton says guests will be from a variety of backgrounds. "Obviously, we'll draw from Ann's friends in the music business, but several guests will be authors and speakers, while some will be everyday people who have some connection with Ann. The show's all about real life and taking an honest look at ourselves."
The show will begin airing on WAZT in Virginia. Other networks are being approached about the project as well. Programming information will be released as soon as it is available.
Sign up for Ann's online newsletter at http://www.anndowning.com to receive updates about the upcoming show.
Bob Crews Passes Away
The Imperials Featured In Church of God (Cleveland)’s Evangel Magazine
The article, titled “The ‘Super Group’ of Gospel Music,” is a feature article in the March 2007 issue of Evangel. The story was written by popular writer Wanda Griffith. The Imperials talk about as the group’s past connections with the Church of God (Cleveland) as well as the past, present and future of the group.
“We have a rich history with the Church of God (Cleveland),” mentioned Jeremie Hudson. “We were honored when they asked to do an article on us for this issue. Wanda was a joy to talk with.”
Evangel Magazine can be found in Church of God churches all across the nation and are free to the public.
Be sure and listen for The Imperials’ first single in over five years at Southern Gospel and Inspirational radio all across the country. “Arise My Love” can be found on the group’s new self-titled release, which is available now. The song is currently charting at #30 on the SoGospelNews.com Top 40 Weekly Chart, the industry’s leading weekly chart.
“Arise My Love” was recently nominated for an SGN Music Award for Progressive Southern Song of the Year. The Imperials will be performing the song at the SGN Music Awards Celebration on Tuesday, April 17, 2007 in Smyrna, Tennessee.
The Imperials will be available nationwide at Christian retail through Lamon Records on April 10, 2007.
For more information on The Imperials, the new recording, and their recent television appearances, please visit http://theimperials.com.
About The Imperials
The Imperials have a vast and rich history that expands beyond genre borders. The Imperials have released over 40 albums and have had 14 songs go number one. They have won 12 Grammy Awards and 13 Dove Awards, and they also were the first Christian artist to perform on the Grammy Award telecast. The group was inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame.
HisSong Cutting Vocals For New Album This Week!
This as-of-yet untitled album is the second recording for HisSong that is being produced by Dove Awarding-winning and Grammy-nominated producer/songwriter Wayne Haun and engineered by Harmony Honors winner Kevin Ward.
The new album will feature all new material and a 75-piece orchestra from Prague.
HisSong owner/manager Dennis Humphries said, “I have never been as excited about a project as I am this one. The material we have chosen for this new project is incredible. Wayne has some amazing ideas for this new project, and we are all really excited about it. This project is going to be unlike anything we have ever recorded.”
Fans will get a chance to hear a sneak peak from the upcoming recording as the first single will be sent out to Southern Gospel Radio this April.
The release date for the as-of-yet untitled recording has not yet been set.
HisSong’s current single, “First Things First” is seeing strong success at Southern Gospel radio. The single is the follow-up to the group’s Singing News Top 40 hit – “It Won’t Be a Celebration”. Both cuts are on HisSong’s last album – Watching & Waiting.
HisSong also has a weekly online newsletter which gives fans of the group information on the ministry and much more.
The group will be celebrating its 5th Anniversary Concert on Saturday, June 9, 2007 in Smyrna, Tennessee at the River of Life Chuch. The anniversary concert will start at 6:00 pm CST and will feature HisSong, Mike & Kelly Bowling and the Stanleys. For more info call 615-793-0733 or 205-393-0004.
More information on HisSong can be found at http://www.hissongmusic.com .
About HisSong
Based out of Nashville, Tennessee, HisSong has already achieved national notoriety within the group’s short lifetime. HisSong was recently nominated for Trio of the Year in the 2005 Diamond Awards, an award they won in 2003. In addition, the group was nominated for Breakthrough Artist of the Year in the 2003 SGN Music Awards. HisSong’s current single is “First Things First”.
Three Bridges In Studio
Kingdom Heirs True To The Call
Arden, NC – Celebrated quartet The Kingdom Heirs are back with their new release True to the Call. The Kingdome Heirs carry on their legacy as one of the top quartets in the industry with this release. Sonlite Records President Chris White stated, “As you might expect, the Kingdom Heirs have come through with another winning project. Anytime you have great tracks with great vocals and great songs...your going to have a great record. True To The Call is just that, a great record”.The project is scheduled to be in stores April 17th and will appear as the Lifeway Recommends feature in Lifeway stores from early June through July. Fans can be listening for the new single “The Rock’s Between the Hard Place and You” on the Crossroads April Airplay Sampler.
McKameys Release New Project
Arden, NC – The celebrated family of Southern Gospel, The McKameys, have released their new studio project Telling the Story, on the Horizon Records label. Following a string of hits from their release of last year, The Old Path, the multi-award winning group is back with ten new titles including the first single “You’re Still God” released in early March. “This group is at the top of the field for a reason,” stated Executive Producer Mickey Gamble. “They have great songs, great performances, and make great projects.”Telling the Story is in stores this month and listeners can expect several new singles to hit radio this year from the project.
Woody and Vonnie Wright Host Listening Party
The "Unbounded Love" CD is available at http://www.woodywright.net
PHOTO: LeFevre Quartet and Dr. Charles Stanley
Rejoice Releases New Project
Roger Bennett Funeral Arrangements
Visitation will be held at Brentwood Baptist Church in Brentwood, TN on Tuesday evening, March 20 from 6 to 9 pm. Funeral services will also be held there on Wednesday afternoon, March 21, at 2 pm.In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made "in memory of Roger Bennett" to the Southern Gospel Music Trust Fund, P.O. Box 144, Goodlettsville, TN 37070... the family will receive a list of your contributions from the trust fund.
Roger Bennett Passes Away
Pianist and vocalist Roger Bennett joined the Cathedrals in November of 1979. This represented the fulfillment of a lifelong dream for Roger. Southern Gospel Music was truly his desire in life. Over the years Roger received many awards presented by his fans and peers, but the most special and memorable thing for him was the outpouring of love and prayers when he was diagnosed with leukemia in 1995. "My family and I literally depended on God everyday to get us through. And God used our music family to keep us encouraged. Our lives have been touched so much by their love and concern." Roger and his wife Debbie lived in Thompson's Station, TN, with their children Chelsea and Jordan.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
UPDATE: Read Debbie Bennett's message here.
Daywind Press:
Legendary pianist and Daywind Recording artist, Roger Bennett passed away this morning from complications resulting from a long battle with leukemia. At the age of 48, he died peacefully at MD Anderson in Houston, TX.
Roger is well known from his years as the pianist for the Cathedral Quartet. After the Cathedrals’ retirement in 1999, Roger, along with fellow Cathedrals’ member, Scott Fowler, formed a brand new quartet, Legacy Five. “Roger is my best friend, and I will miss him terribly; but I am glad he is finally free from the prison of disease,” stated Scott.
“Roger exemplified true Christianity, true musicianship and true leadership in his time here. We will miss our dear friend, and we look forward to the time when we will all be together again in Eternity,” said Ed Leonard, President of Daywind Music Group.
Norman Holland, Vice President of Daywind Music Group, remembers Roger by saying, “I have never seen a more courageous person than Roger. He was a shining star and true hero. I consider it a privilege to have been associated with him from when I first met him 25 years ago with the Cathedrals and then with Legacy Five. I had the opportunity to go to London with Roger, Debbie and Legacy Five. It was a time when I got to know Roger and Debbie even more, and it was a special time to spend with him that I will always cherish. Roger truly lived up to a higher standard, and always carried himself with great class.”
“I first met Roger 25 years ago when he was with the Cathedrals, and I had began working in the industry as a booking agent. One of the things that I will always treasure is the times when Roger and I would have lunch or breakfast together, and he would always talk about Chelsea and Jordan and what they were accomplishing. Roger was always so proud of his family. He also had a deep respect for the pioneers of the industry and their contributions to Southern Gospel music. Roger is definitely now, in his own words, a Hero of the Faith,” shared Ed Harper of The Harper Agency.
Roger is survived by his wife, Debbie; two children, Chelsea and Jordan; and his father, Doug. No arrangements have been made at this time. Details will be made available as soon as possible.
Singing News Apologizes to Fans, Brings Back Fan Awards
In an email message sent out today by Jerry Kirksey, the Singing News apologizes to the fans for their recent changes to the SN Fan Awards. Kirksey stated that he overlooked the importance of the fan in the Fan Award process.Earlier this year the Singing News decided to decrease the number of awards given from previous years. The reasons given were to increase the prestige of the award and to decrease the time spent on the award ceremony during NQC. Kirksey email today indicates that the fans were not in favor of this idea and the Singing News has decided to revert to their original Fan Awards.
According to Kirksey the May issue of the magazine will include a Top Ten ballot with the results of the March issue voting and the other side of the ballot will be a nomination ballot for the other six categories that had been dropped.
Eighth Day Searches For New Vocalist
Spartanburg, SC – Eighth Day manager Scott Robinson announced this week that the talented trio is searching for a new vocalist to replace long-time member Derek Parker. Parker will be leaving the group to pursue other interests. “We certainly wish Derek all the best with his future endeavors,” Robinson stated. “We appreciate Derek’s dedicated service to the ministry of Eighth Day.” Vocalists interested in submitting demos for consideration may contact Eighth Day at 864-316-2074 or .The Spartanburg, SC, based trio is currently enjoying the success of their second consecutive Top 40 hit single. “I Wanna Go Home” made its way to the #35 position on The Singing News Top 80 Chart for the month of April.
Complete information regarding Eighth Day may be obtain online at http://www.eighthdaymusic.com
New Ground Teams with Local Church & CBS Affiliate To Make Dream Come True
Days before the game was to take place, Ruth found out that WHNT-19 in Huntsville, Alabama had made the call and were able to get her ten tickets for her and her family.
But there was another problem.
The family did not have adequate transportation to make the trip to Huntsville from their home in Asbury, Alabama. So Shipps Baptist Church Pastor, Mickey Bell, stepped in. “I knew when I first heard of Ruth’s story that our church family wanted to be involved so we quickly took action,” Bell stated. With only one day to spare before the big game, Pastor Mickey called on some friends to help. “I knew exactly who to call to provide the transportation for ten people. Not all artists are as eager to help as Dale and Robbie Maxwell of New Ground. I knew they have the same heart off stage as they do on stage.” According to Bell, one call is all it took.
New Ground arrived in Ruth Goble’s hometown to pick up the family and take them to the game. “It was just as exciting a night for us as it was for the Goble family. It was our honor to help make a special wish come true for a very deserving lady. We pray for a complete healing for Ms. Goble and look forward to seeing her family again soon,” says Robbie Maxwell of New Ground.
Once they arrived at the game, they were treated to an open concession stand and free cameras to record their night all provided by Shipps Baptist Church. The Harlem Globetrotters provided an autographed basketball and lots of hugs.
It’s great to see one family that has been touched by southern gospel music, a CBS news station and one local church teaming up together to make one Marshall County family very happy.
http://www.newgroundministries.com
http://www.shippsbaptistchurch.org
http://www.whnt.com
Dates and Talent Line-Up Announced for 8th Annual SoGospelNews.com Fan Festival and Talent Contest
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - Deon and Susan Unthank, administrators of SoGospelNews.com, are proud to announce the dates and talent line-up for the 8th Annual SoGospelNews.com Fan Festival and Talent Contest. The annual festival is set for July 24-July 28, 2007.This year’s Fan Festival will include performances from the following artists:
Booth Brothers
Karen Peck & New River
Dove Brothers Quartet
Kingsmen
Mercy’s Mark
Freemans
Kirk Talley
Three Bridges
LeFevre Quartet
The Imperials
Anchormen
Daryl Williams Trio
Johnny Minick & Friends
Young Harmony
HisSong
King’s Heralds
Shiloh
Browns
Ed Crawford & the Mystery Men Quartet
Ann Downing,
Prophets Quartet
Sharron Kay King
Sondra Burnett
The Pathfinders
Jonathan White
John Lanier
Quicks
Embrace
Sunday Edition
As in years past, this year's convention will remain free to the public. A love offering will be taken each night.
The inclusion of the Saturday morning talent contest will remain a part of the Festival. The talent contest will take part during the morning hours and will feature judges whom are prominent in the Southern Gospel industry. More information on the talent contest will be forthcoming.
Additional artists will be added at a later date as some confirmations have yet to be received.
"We are continually amazed at just how much God has blessed this concert series year after year,” mentioned Deon Unthank of SoGospelNews.com. “This year’s Festival is looking to be just as great as in years past. We’re excited to have perennial favorites like Three Bridges, Daryl Williams Trio, HisSong, and The Imperials as well as new faces to the Festival like the Freemans, LeFevre Quartet, King’s Heralds, Sharron Kay King, Ann Downing, the Browns, and Shiloh. Our loyal attendees have been anxiously anticipating many of these groups for years, and we are happy to finally be able to bring them in this year.”
The 8th Annual SoGospelNews.com Fan Festival and Talent Contest will be held at River of Life Assembly of God, Smyrna, Tennessee.
Artist listing is subject to change.
A complete artist listing and talent lineup for each night of the Festival will be posted soon at SoGospelNews.com. Check back often to see major updates to the schedule.
For more information, feel free to email the site at .
About SouthernGospelNews.com
SouthernGospelNews.com has grown from relative obscurity to the industry's leading internet publication for Southern Gospel news and information in only a few short years. The site includes a wide variety of features, consisting of artist interviews, a weekly chart, late-breaking news, and much more.
Talley Trio Added as Featured Performer for 2007 SGN Music Awards Celebration
The Talley Trio is one of the industry’s most respected and well-loved groups. The group has had six career #1 songs and has received numerous awards and accolades in the group’s lifetime. The group is nominated for five SGN Music Awards this year including Song of the Year (for “Mountain Mover”), Album of the Year (for Rise Above), Mixed Group of the Year, Producer of the Year – Artist (for Roger Talley), and Progressive Southern Album of the Year (for Rise Above).
Lauren Talley was awarded last year’s Female Vocalist of the Year, and the Talley Trio won Progressive Southern Album of the Year in 2005 for their album Praise For the Ages.
“We have tried to book the Talley Trio for our Awards Celebration for the last two years, but due to scheduling conflicts, they could never make it,” mentioned Deon Unthank of SoGospelNews.com. “We are so excited that their scheduled opened up this year. We know that the fans will be delighted to know that the Talley Trio will be there this year.”
Additional performers for the awards program include Gold City, Booth Brothers, Dove Brothers Quartet, Mike & Kelly Bowling, Three Bridges, the Dunaways, Kim Collingsworth, The Imperials, Beloved, and the Dills.
Hosting the Awards Celebration this year will be last year’s hosts, Chris Unthank and Southern Gospel singer/songwriter/comedienne Sondra Burnett. Burnett will also be performing a selection from her nominated project Family Reunion, and Unthank will perform with his group Sunday Edition.
The 2007 SGN Music Awards Celebration will be held at River of Life Church in Smyrna, Tennessee, on Tuesday, April 17, 2006. The program will start promptly at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Celebration is free to the public.
Additional performers will be added in the near future.
Gold City led all artist nominees this year with a record setting 12 nominations. Following behind Gold City were last year’s big winners the Booth Brothers and popular artist Dove Brothers Quartet with eight nominations apiece. Brian Free & Assurance and Mike & Kelly Bowling (formerly known as the Mike Bowling Group) both received six nominations. Receiving five nominations apiece were the Crabb Family, Three Bridges, and the Talley Trio. Three artists earned four nominations apiece – Hoppers, Karen Peck & New River, and the McRaes. TaRanda Greene and JBIF (Jody Brown Indian Family) both earned three nominations, while the Collingsworth Family, Hope’s Call, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Young Harmony, Mark Lowry, Stewart Varnado, Jeff & Sheri Easter, Mercy’s Mark, and the Greenes all received double nominations.
Songwriter and Booth Brothers baritone Jim Brady earned the most individual nominations for his work during 2006. In addition to landing in the Songwriter of the Year (Artist) category (an award he won last year), Jim earned an additional five nominations for his songwriting this year – bringing his total nominations to six. Earning five individual nominations were producer Roger Talley and songwriters Barry Weeks and Tony Wood. Michael Sykes, Daniel Riley, and Michael English all received four individual nominations for their work in 2006. Landing three individual nominations were Les Butler, Annie McRae, Chris Binion, Mike Bowling, Nick Bruno, Wayne Haun, and Jeff Collins.
The Pacesetter Award is awarded to any artist, individual, or organization which has shown great strides in the industry and has raised the bar for others. This year’s nominees for the 2007 Pacesetter are artist management company Big Ten Entertainment, Brian Free & Assurance, XM Satellite Radio’s Southern Gospel channel enLIGHTen 34, Gold City, and Salem Communications (home to Singing News Magazine, Homecoming Magazine, and the Solid Gospel radio network).
A full list of nominees and more information on the SGN Music Awards and past winners can be found at http://southerngospelnews.com.
About SouthernGospelNews.com
SouthernGospelNews.com has grown from relative obscurity to the industry's leading internet publication for Southern Gospel news and information in only a few short years. The site includes a wide variety of features, consisting of artist interviews, a weekly chart, late-breaking news, and much more.
Brothers Forever to Host Showcase at SGM FanFair
In addition to Brothers Forever, fans will get a chance to hear some of the industry’s fastest rising talents – such as the Living Waters Trio, Sunday Edition, the Sons Family, ReignSong, the Diggles Family, Eternal Vision, the Oxendines, and Higher Ground Trio.
“We can not tell everyone how excited we are to be hosting our first ever showcase at SGM FanFair,” said Curtis Hagy of Brothers Forever. “Each of these groups are very talented, and we know that fans will love them all when they come!”
The showcase is set for Friday afternoon, March 30, 2007, at the Chattanooga Convention Center, Rooms 20 and 21. The showcase will take place from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.
Brothers Forever encourages everyone to stop by their booth during SGM FanFair. Brothers Forever can be found at booth #218 all week.
SGM FanFair is one of Southern Gospel’s biggest events and is held every March in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The 2007 SGM FanFair will take place from Monday, March 26, 2007 and conclude on Saturday, March 31, 2007. Artists currently scheduled to perform include Karen Peck & New River, Brian Free & Assurance, The Ruppes, The Freemans, Gerald Crabb, The Whisnants, Tony Gore & Majesty, Lulu Roman, Naomi & the Segos, The Nelons, and many more.
Brothers Forever was also included in the Top 5 ballot for the SGM FanFair Awards in the category of Favorite Male Quartet. The popular quartet was nominated among some of the industry’s leading quartets – such as Brian Free & Assurance, Kingdom Heirs, Dove Brothers Quartet, and the Relations Quartet. This is Brothers Forever’s first nomination in the SGM FanFair Awards.
More information on SGM FanFair and the awards program can be found at http://www.sgmfanfair.com.
Brothers Forever was recently in the studio recording tracks for the group’s upcoming as-of-yet untitled recording. The men were in GAT3 Studios completing the tracks with producer Brad Hudson (Greenes) and engineer Glen Tabor. The new recording will feature some of the industry’s most sought-after studio musicians – including Gordon Mote, Kelly Back, Tony Creasman, David Johnson, and Kevin Grant.
More information on the new recording will be released later. You can catch up with Brothers Forever at their homepage – http://www.brothersforever.net.
About Brothers Forever
Brothers Forever is based out of Church Hill, Tennessee. Nestled in the foothills of upper East Tennessee, this group has quickly become known for their unique style of southern gospel music. Songs such as "You Alone Are Worthy" and "I Have Been Loved" have become nationwide favorites. Brothers Forever felt the call to the music ministry a little over a two years ago, and since the group’s inception, it has been an exciting journey.
Hoppers Film Daystar TV show Celebration
“It was a great honor to appear on Daystar,” said Claude Hopper, manager and founder of the Hoppers. “For the Hoppers, this has been a year of tremendous blessings and firsts. To God be the glory!”
In recent years, Daystar Television Network has emerged as the fastest growing and second largest Christian television network in the world, operating over 50 television stations in major markets across the United States with production facilities in Dallas, Houston, and Denver.? Daystar has a potential audience of over 128 million viewers in the U.S. alone, which includes 60 million cable and satellite homes.?
The legendary group – Claude, Connie, Mike, Dean and Kim Hopper - is currently celebrating their 50th year in Christ-centered ministry and offering their Hopper 50th Anniversary Heritage tour at select locations across the country. For more information, see: TheHoppers.com, or call (336) 548-2526.
Bill Gaither Interview on XM’s enLighten 34
Be listening as Bill Gaither, in a very personal conversation, talks with XM's Dan Dixon about the philosophy of "giving it away" ... giving of one's self, which extends far beyond the Gaither Vocal Band’s current album, "Give It Away." You can hear Bill “speaking from his heart,” along with selections from the “Give It Away” project, Saturday at 6 P-M Eastern Time on enLighten X-M 34 ... with a repeat broadcast scheduled for next Tuesday, March 20th, at 12 Noon Eastern TimeExalting Him National Talent Search to air on NRB Network
For the fifth time, the sponsors of Exalting Him, Daywind Soundtracks and Salem Music Network have searched for the best, undiscovered talent in Christian music. After sifting through demos, and hosting regional competitions in Baltimore, MD; San Francisco, CA; Nashville, TN; Atlanta, GA; Orlando, FL; St. Louis, MO; Cleveland, OH and Dallas, TX they have narrowed the competition to just ten soloists and ten groups. The judges will narrow the playing field to just two soloists and two groups who will perform in the final episode where one artist will be awarded a national recording contract.Trying to choose a winner will be a virtual who’s who of industry professionals including Deborah Evans Price, writer for Billboard, CCM and Singing News magazines; Derek West, A&R Manager for INO Records; Dusty Wells, Sr. Director of National Accounts for WORD; Ed Leonard, President of Daywind Music Group; Jim Cumbee, President of Salem Publishing; John Mays, producer and A&R Director; Judy Spencer Nelon, Vice President of Manna Music; Phil Johnson, General Manager & A&R Director of Spring Hill Music Group; Randy Cox, veteran publisher, composer and lyricist; Stacy Merida, owner & president of The Merida Group a marketing and consulting firm; William Wiegman, Producer for The Gospel Music Channel. Helping these judges make the very difficult decisions will be recording artists Anthony Evans, Barbara Fairchild, Chonda Pierce, Donna Beauvais of Hope’s Call, Jody McBrayer of Avalon, Karen Harding, Karen Peck Gooch of Karen Peck & New River and LuLu Roman.
Exalting Him promises to offer something for everyone. Groups and soloists will represent all genres of Christian music including Contemporary, Inspirational, Gospel, Praise, Southern Gospel and Rock. The first episode, featuring the groups, will air on the NRB network on Friday, March 16 at 8:00 pm (ET). The episode featuring the soloists will air in the same time-slot on Friday, March 23. The Finale which will feature a surprise, guest appearance will air on Friday, March 30.
The NRB Network is proud to host this year’s competition. The NRB Network can be found on DirecTV channel 378. NRB Network is part of DirecTV’s basic package with nearly 16 million subscribers. The NRB Network is a non-commercial, 24/7, religious network with strong faith, values and family ethics.
Exalting Him is a Christ-centered talent search designed to allow undiscovered artists a platform in order to showcase their gifts and talents and is sponsored by Salem Radio Network and Daywind Soundtracks. Exalting Him coordinator, Joanna Price had this to say about the talent search, “One of the greatest things about Exalting Him is that you get to meet all kinds of people serving God in all kinds of places, singing all styles of music who are in this competition for one purpose. That purpose is not to win, not to make a name for themselves – but to Exalt HIM!”
Each of the artists will have a song featured on the Exalting Him ’07 CD. The CD will be available at your local Christian retailer late April or on-line at http://www.daywind.com.
For more information on the contest sponsors visit these websites:
Salem Music Network: http://www.solidgospel.com or http://www.todayschristianmusic.com
Daywind Performance Tracks: http://www.daywind.com
NRB Network: http://www.nrbnetwork.tv
Isaacs’ Members Join Randy Owen On QVC
Isaacs’ fans will want to tune in to this special appearance, and can also visit http://www.theisaacs.com to pre-order The Isaacs’ brand new recording, “Big Sky,” which was produced by Grammy Award winning producer, Mark Bright and will be released April 24, 2007.
Be sure to check out the group’s website to obtain the most up-to-date information on The Isaacs, including a complete tour schedule.
NQC Announces Special Performances In Commemoration Of 50th Anniversary
In addition to all of these special moments, the segment’s grand finale will be an appearance by renown Christian singer/songwriter and comedian, Mark Lowry, as Lowry will recount some of his favorite NQC moments, including a video clip of him performing at the NQC when he was very young. Mark will also perform with popular group, LordSong during this special segment.
Complete schedule information is available at http://www.natqc.com or by calling the NQC headquarters at 800-846-8499.
Jackson Management Agency, Inc. Signs Faith3
Janine, April, and Lora have been singing together as Faith3 since August 2005. They have quickly grown to become one of the brightest rising artists in southern gospel music. "We are so excited about working with JMA. Kyle and Tara Jackson are such wonderful people. They represent Jesus Christ in their management and that is what stood out to us. We believe that working with JMA will help us to further our ministry and reach those needing to hear of God's deliverance," commented Lora Poore.
For more information about Faith3 and their ministry please visit their website at http://www.faith3ministries.com
Jackson Management Agency, Inc. was founded by the husband and wife team of Kyle and Tara Jackson. Additional information about JMA and their artists is available at http://www.jacksonmanagementagency.com
Lamp Artist Robert Matelski To Undergo Surgery
Remember Robert in your prayers as he undergoes this surgical procedure on Monday the 19th. He will be in the hospital for about 4 to 6 days. After getting home it will take about 3 to 6 weeks to recover.
Please send your encouragement to: http://www.robertmatelskiministry.com
Frost Renews Contractwith Miracle Theater
The Miracle is a new musical ministry about the life of Jesus Christ. The Miracle (Produced by Fee Hedrick Family Entertainment Group; Written by Linda Nell Cooper; Composed by David M. Legg) features a large cast of actors, singers, dancers, technicians and live animals. It is one of the largest faith-based venues in the United States. Visit http://www.miracletheater.com for more show times and information. For reservations call 1-800-985-5494.
The Frosts, based in Pigeon Forge, TN, enjoyed two Singing News Top 80 songs last year and have recently been in the studio working on a brand new project with Eddie Crook. The group's latest single, "In the Arms of Mercy," from their project, Testimony, has just been released to radio stations across the nation on the Eddie Crook Radio Disc, Volume 2007-02.
http://www.frostfamilyband.com
http://www.eddiecrook.com
Roger Neal & Friends Sing for MS Tour Cancelled
SoGospelNews.com has confirmed with several sources that the Roger Neal & Friends Sing for MS Tour has been cancelled. Some of the information we have recieved is that the tour was cancelled due to lack of ticket sales and other factors. No one in the Roger Neal office could be contacted for any more specific details.The tour had already completed 11 of the 53 tour dates. No word has been given on whether the tour will be rescheduled. More information will be available as we recieve it.
UPDATE: We were able to speak with Roger Neal today and he stated that he hopes to find another sponsor to continue the tour and should have official word by Monday.
Kingdom Heirs Seeking Pianst
Joseph Cox is leaving the Kingdom Heirs. According to the KH website, "There are times when decisions are made and everything goes according to plan, and then there are times when they don't. Back in January we hired Joseph Cox as the new pianist for The Kingdom Heirs. As of today, Monday March 12, we are again searching for a new pianist. To the simple point, things just didn't work out for us or Joseph. He is a wonderful young man with a ton of talent and a promising future. We are thankful for the time we have spent together and we wish him the best. We will continue on using split tracks along with the bass and drums until a replacement is found."http://www.kingdomheirs.com
Greater Vision To Be Featured on XM Radio
Greater Vision will be featured this week on XM Radio Channel 34 (Enlighten). If you have an XM Radio receiver, you will be able to listen in to this special one-hour program featuring songs and interviews with Gerald, Rodney, and Jason. Hosted by Daniel Britt, the interviews were recorded during the week of the National Quartet Convention, but have never been aired until now.The program, Daniel Britt & Friends will air three times this week:
Monday - 7pm (Eastern)
Thursday - 10pm (Eastern)
Saturday - 12 noon (Eastern)
You can also listen online , or, if you're an AOL subscriber, you can listen on AOL Radio. If you have DirecTV, you can listen on channel 828.
Gospel Legend, Dottie Rambo to Appear for New Non-Profit
Grammy ® winner Dottie Rambo is coming to Ringgold, GA. The Gospel Music Hall of Fame member will perform April 14 for The Share America Foundation, Inc. that oversees the Pearl and Floyd Franks Scholarship Fund. “God has richly blessed Dottie Rambo the ability to speak to the hearts of millions around the world with her songs,” said Randall Franks, president. “We are honored that she would consider helping our efforts to encourage youth in music with her talents through our scholarships.”Rambo has composed more than 2,500 songs including titles such as “He Looked Beyond My Faults and Saw My Needs,” “I’ve Never Been This Homesick Before” and “We Shall Behold Him.” She is also a member of the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame, received the Songwriter of the Century Award, and the ASCAP (America Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) Lifetime Achievement Award.
An evening with Dottie Rambo with emcee Randall Franks "Officer Randy Goode" from TV's "In the Heat of the Night” is Saturday, April 14 at 7 p.m. at the Ringgold United Methodist Church, on the corner of Cleveland Street and U.S. 41 in Ringgold, Ga.
Donations for tickets are adults: $12 at door, $10 in advance, Children 6-16 $6 at door, $5 advance, Children 5 and under free. Seating is limited to 400. Tickets may be purchased locally in advance during business hours at The Catoosa County News (706) 935-2621, SonShine Christian Books (706) 861-7675 in Fort Oglethorpe, Catoosa County Probate Office (706) 935-3511, and Ringgold United Methodist Church (706) 935-4777 (8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Thursday) or ordered by mail for pick up at the event from Share America Foundation, Inc. P.O. Box 42 Tunnel Hill, Ga. 30755.
The Share America Foundation, Inc. presents scholarships to talented musicians who excel in the Appalachian musical arts.
New Booking Contact For Ricky Atkinson And Compassion
All promoters and pastors who wish to book Ricky Atkinson and Compassion will now be able to call our offices directly.
Ricky Atkinson states," On the issue of booking, I feel its best for the group right now if we handle our own booking. With new personnel and two schedules, it’s definitely the best decision, especially right now during this time of transition; we are excited to take on another dimension of ministry of our group from within, which will, among other things, include booking our dates in the future." Anyone who wants to inquire about scheduling Ricky Atkinson and Compassion for booking with the group, please feel free to call our home offices at 229-776-7120, or RAC mobile phone at 229-886-8043.
Jeremy Peace to Leave Kingsmen
SGN just learned that Jeremy Peace is leaving the Kingsmen. It is uncertain of Peace's plans for the future. The Kingsmen have no replacement at this time but are being advised by several industry leaders.Calvin Runion Passes Away
Calvin Runion was born Dec. 27, 1935 on Walnut Creek in Madison County, NC. He went to his Heavenly Home to be with His Savior on March 9th_, 2007. He was preceded in death by Godly parents, Claude and Zora Runnion.From an early age he had a passion for music and an ear for four part harmony. He sang and played the autoharp at age nine on the radio with his Father. From there, a love that would turn into the calling of his life developed, to sing Southern Gospel music. At a young age of 12 years old, He realized His need for salvation and received Jesus Christ as His personal Savior. He attended All Nite Singings with his Father, Mother, Sister and Brother in the late 1940’s and early 1950’s, hearing groups like the Statesmen and Blackwood Brothers.
For the next 58 years he sang bass in a Southern Gospel Quartet. He was privileged to sing with the Ambassadors Quartet, The Kingsmen Quartet of Asheville, NC, The Dixie Echoes of Pensacola, Florida and the Diplomats Quartet of Atlanta, Georgia. In the last years of his life, he sang with the Land of The Sky Boys, who were members of the original Kingsmen.
He loved people and traveling so much that in 1992, along with his wife, Madge, founded Runion Tours and Charters. He turned another lifelong passion for People, Travel, and Motor Coaches into a thriving business that still exists today!
He was a proud member of Meadowbrook Free Will Baptist Church where he served in past days as a Deacon, trustee and Teacher. He is survived by his sister, Lucy Hollifield (A. T. ) of Black Mountain, NC, a brother, Rev. J. Wendell Runion (Joyce) of Asheville, NC and His loving and faithful wife of 52 years, Madge Wilhide Runion of Swannanoa, NC.
He and his bride are survived by four children and their spouses, Dan of Riverview, Michigan, Larry (Cindy) of Asheville, NC. Jeffrey (Donna) of Nashville, Tn and Jennifer Newman (Jason) of Nashville, Tn. Besides having four children, they also were blessed with Eleven Grandchildren.
The family will receive friends at Meadowbrook Free Will Baptist Church, 204 Blue Ridge Rd., Black Mountain, NC from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Sunday, March 11th. The funeral will be held at the church on Monday, March 12th at 2:00 PM. Following the funeral celebration, burial will be at Mountain View Memorial Park in Black Mtn, NC.
The family is grateful for the Godly Heritage and influence given by Calvin. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that all memorial gifts be given to the Meadowbrook FWB Church Building Fund, 204 Blue Ridge Rd, Black Mtn., NC 28711 (OR) International Baptist Outreach Missions, Inc. at PO Box 16576, Asheville, NC. 28816. The funeral will be broadcast live on WKJV radio, 1380 AM, Asheville, NC. Rick Harwood will assist in the funeral services.
Roger Bennett Health Update
Roger Bennett is still need of a miracle. He has been placed on a ventilator and they have begun dialysis. Besides the previous infections that were reported there appears to be something else that is keeping him from responding to treatment. Please continue to pray.Brad Strider To Coordinate AGM Festival and NQC Program Books
Greensboro, NC (Press Release) - The 2007 American Gospel Music Festival and National Quartet Convention Program Books are being coordinated by Brad Strider of [b.creative]. Although the NQC honors previous year¹s space reservations, those wishing to advertise in the Program Books should contact Lavonda Housand of [b.creative] immediately. The ads range in size from 1Ž4 Page to two page spreads.The first American Gospel Music Festival in Dallas, TX, a new event on the horizon of Christian Music, is being presented as part of a major initiative of the NQC to bring new resources to church musicians and listeners of Christian Music around the world. The new AGM brand is designed to capture the very best artists from Southern Gospel and Inspirational genres and is setting a new standard of excellence as it seeks to truly embody the Music of the Church. Ad reservation deadline is March 31, 2007 and all ads must be received no later than April 10, 2007. For more information on this event, visit: http://www.americangospelmusic.com
The NQC Program Book is widely distributed at the National Quartet Convention and is the sole source for event schedule information and exhibitor locations. For this reason, most attendees, exhibitors and media representatives obtain a copy of the Program Book. Ad reservation deadline is July 1, 2007 and all ads must be received no later than August 1, 2007. For more information on this event, visit: http://www.natqc.com
A special 20% discount it being offered to advertise in both books. Those wishing to advertise in the Program Books should contact Lavonda Housand immediately at or 336-315-1867
LordSong Announces Exciting Group Changes
MICHAEL AND KIM LORD ANNOUNCE CHANGES:Amber Balltzglier has resigned after nearly five years with LordSong. Amber and husband, Mark who ran sound for LordSong, have decided to pursue other interests and ministry opportunities. They’ve just celebrated their 2nd anniversary and are ready to start a family. Amber is pursuing a career in real estate while Mark will continue to work as a studio engineer. Kim says, “we support their decision wholeheartedly and wish them the very best.”
Singer/songwriter, Melissa Brady will be filling-in with LordSong until the position is filled permanently. Melissa is married to Jim Brady of the Booth Brothers and is no stranger to gospel music. Michael states, “we really appreciate Melissa and look forward to working with her in the next few months.”
Just as this chapter ends for LordSong, they are very excited about the next chapter that is just beginning. Instead of adding one new vocalist to take Amber’s place, three vocalists will be added. Valerie Ellenburg, Heather Day and Greg Day will be joining LordSong to form what will be one of the most talent-packed vocal groups anywhere. It has been a dream for sisters Kim, Heather and Valerie to sing together for years. Michael and Kim state, “we are very excited about Greg and the sisters joining our team and are looking forward to what God is going to do in and through the ministry of LordSong.”
Heather, Greg and Valerie will continue touring with The Ruppes until sometime in August and will be in full swing with LordSong in September. This fall with Mark Lowry and his “God is Crazy About You” tour is already scheduled and Spring of 2008 is coming together. LordSong has available dates around the “God is Crazy About You” tour. If you are interested in scheduling LordSong for a concert or other ministry event, please contact their office at 864-580-3987 or email inquiries to
Hayes Family Signs Distribution Contract with Crossroads
“We feel like Crossroads is a leader in the Southern Gospel industry and that the Lord will further our ministry through this exciting partnership.” States Mylon Hayes from the group. Mylon and Sharon Hayes have been regular background vocalists for the Crossroads studio recording team for many years and Crossroads has already released 3 Hayes Family projects prior to this exclusive agreement, the most recent being Come Eat Bread.
“He Is, Forever and Ever Amen” is their most recent national radio single which first appeared on the January Crossroads Radio Sampler. Crossroads plans to release a new project from this talented group late in 2007.
Lamp Music Group Signs Enlisted
"We became aware of what God has been doing in this vibrant ministry over the past year and couldn't wait to meet them," says Lamp President Mike Pillow. He continues "We are really excited to have Enlisted as part of our team!"
Enlisted will be tracking music for their debut Lamp project in May with an early summer release date anticipated. Enlisted has also recently launched a new website. For more information: http://www.enlisted4him.com or http://www.lampmusic.com
Nazarene Gospel Music Explosion to feature Greater Vision, Squire Parsons and Anchormen
The mega-concert will again be held in Summersville, WV, on April 13, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The concert is sponsored by the Nazarene Churches of West Virginia. The event will be held at the Nazarene Church Campgrounds Tabernacle, in Summersville.
The line-up for this year’s Explosion will include the leading artists in Southern Gospel music: Greater Vision, Squire Parsons Trio and the Anchormen Quartet.
Since organizing in 1990, Greater Vision has been delighting various audiences with their rich vocal blend and their effective ability to communicate the message of the Gospel. Greater Vision has established a firm place at the pinnacle of Christian music, and has become the most awarded trio in the history of gospel music. Likewise, Squire Parsons is one of the nation’s most beloved and award-winning singers and songwriters with a variety of classics, including “Beulah Land.” Also, the Anchormen Quartet have been mesmerizing music lovers for many years and will take the Gospel stage, as well.
The Tabernacle is a modern and acoustically superior facility, and is uniquely designed for an event of this magnitude, and is handicapped accessible. Although doors open around 5:45 p.m., the concert begins at 6:30 p.m.
“I know it will be an exciting night to remember,” said Paul Shannon, promoter of the event. Arrangements have also been made for special lodging rates for attendees seeking overnight accommodations at "Comfort Inn" and "Sleep Inn" in Summersville.
Nazarenes who choose to stay overnight will be counted present for local church attendance. And all denominations are invited to this night of inspiring music. Like last year, all proceeds from the Gospel Music Explosion will go to the Nazarene Church Campgrounds Tabernacle Fund. “We want to help with equipment for the hearing impaired and handicapped, and other needs, at the Tabernacle,” Shannon added. “The Gospel music lovers who attend this music are assisting this great effort and also enjoying first class Gospel music.”
Tickets for the Gospel Music Explosion are available at http://www.paulspromotions.com or by calling (803) 478-5889 or (304) 744-2951. Tickets are also available at Nazarene Churches in West Virginia. Tickets are also available from Tolley’s Bookstores, Kanawha Mall and Southridge Mall, Charleston, WV; and at Day Star Bookstore, Summersville, WV.
Unbounded Love by Woody and Vonnie Wright Now Available
Songs include "Love Beats All I¹ve Ever Seen," "Things I Might Have Been," "I Am The Lord's I Know," "We're Gonna Hold On," "You and Me," "Storms Never Last,