sgn
SCOOPS ........... Magazine
table of contents 3
Publisher’s Point with Rob Patz
5 Southern Gospel Weekend Update with Lorraine Walker 9
The Whisnants by Justin Gilmore
13
Hope To The Hill by Nathan Kistler
15
A Younger Perspective on Jordan LeFevre by Erin Stevens
19
SGNScoops’ Top 100
23
Heaven Bound by Charlie Griffin
27
Randall Reviews It! by Randall Hamm
32
2nd Generation by Debbie Seagraves
Our Mission SGNScoops exists to promote the gospel by unveiling what is intriguing and real about Southern Gospel and Christian Country music. With integrity, we aspire to strengthen Christians, highlight people who are fulfilling a call to minister and emphasize the music that inspires audiences and glorifies God.
36 Gaither Homecoming DVD Reviews by Justin Gilmore 40
Day by Day with Selena Day
43
John Bowman by Robert York
47
Christian Country Top 40
49
ICGMA by Lorraine Walker
51
DJ Spotlight on Roger Harris by Vonda Easley
54
Vernon Alabama Gospel Music Weekend Update
56
The Chandlers by Sarah Murray
60
Creekside Update with Lorraine Walker
64
Editor’s Last Word by Lorraine Walker
Publisher- Rob Patz Editor- Lorraine Walker Feature Editor- Craig Harris Layout/Design- Pete Schwager, Staci Schwager Cover Design- Stephanie Kelley Founder- Dr. Allen Smith
www.sgnscoops.com
65 Contributors
Have a SCOOP to share? For news consideration, email us at news@sgnscoops.com
Publisher’s Point by Rob Patz
It is the month of March. Can you believe this year is flying by the way it is? I am excited about March. We have Southern Gospel Weekend coming up, March 23rd through the 25th. If you haven’t made plans already, we want you to be with us in Oxford, Alabama for three great days of Gospel music and over 30 great artists. It is going to be a time that you will not forget! I want to thank each and everyone of you who have subscribed to my YouTube channel over the last month as we continue to see growth in our effort with One Minute Prayer. I am excited to see what God is going to do with One Minute Prayer. I’ve been asked why I came up with this idea and I wanted to share a little bit with you right here. One Minute Prayer came out of a time in my life where I needed to meet with God more than just in my normal prayer time and I started asking Him in short increments about what was on my heart. That turned into me setting the timer on my phone for one minute and praying for what God knew was on my heart. To be honest, I continue to pray about that need, but God has lit a fire in my soul to share the idea of One Minute Prayer. So many people that I come in contact with daily are hurting and need to be encouraged, so I know that this is a timely theme. So that’s a little bit of a background. This month, I want to talk to you about your strength. You know that the Scripture says in Nehemiah 8:10 “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” So many people feel so burdened by life, they feel so heavy with the circumstances that are around them, whether it is their family or their job or their church they feel like things are so overwhelming for them that they no longer have any joy. But Scripture says that the joy of the Lord is our strength which means when things seem overwhelming, when life seems bigger than we can handle, that if we rest in Jesus and in His strength we will find joy. When I started to think about that, it changed my life. I started to realize that joy doesn’t come from this world. I know you understand that and I understand that. I grew up in church and I have heard that my whole life. But there are times where we need to be reminded that the joy of the Lord is our strength too. Not only is He the One to uplift us with His strength, He is the One that will bring us joy in the midst of whatever is weighing us
down. So take a minute today and pray about the strength that God is going to give you. I will stand with you and pray this prayer. Let’s pray this month together for people who need jobs and for people who need changes in their personal relationships with their family and friends. Let’s pray for a revival to come to those that we know. So many times we pray for revival in our churches, but I have really felt the burden lately to start praying that revival will happen in us! Not to the church but in His people. I love each and everyone of you and I believe God has great things for you to do this month. So go out and do them because the Bible says, “When God is for us, who can be against us?!” And that is this month’s Publishers Point!
Southern Gospel Weekend
Is Here!
By Lorraine Walker It’s finally here. Southern Gospel Weekend (SGW) arrives in Oxford, Alabama for its third year of music and merriment. March 23rd through 25th, the Oxford Civic Center will be filled with artists and fans to enjoy Gospel songs and fellowship with each other. As in the last two years, admission to Southern Gospel Weekend is free but must be reserved. Visit www.SouthernGospelWeekend.com for more information. Be sure to contact head of Lodging and Tours, Salina Clay, for more information at hotels@ sgnscoops.com. event. The community as a whole has also embraced this event,” said Rob Patz, president of Coastal Media. “There’s just a feeling of excitement about these three days of music. Besides the nightly concerts, this year there will be showcases and a special breakfast on Saturday morning that will feature several artists. I can’t wait!”
“I have to say, more people in this past year have asked me about Oxford, Alabama and Southern Gospel Weekend, than about any other event I have been a part of. The industry as a whole is excited to see the growth of this
Artist Lineup Evening concerts begin at 5:00pm with the Five O’Clock Band. Some of the artists appearing at SGW 2017 include: Mark209, Pat Barker, Matt Felts, Hope’s Journey, The
Williamsons, The Sharps Quartet, Day 3, Eagle’s Wings, Charlie Sexton, Linda Foster, Mercy’s Rain, The Dodrill Family, Rhonda Wooten, The Camerons, Hazel Sain, The Riders, Tina Wakefield, Broken Vessels, Surrendered, Inheritance, Debbie Seagraves, The Chandlers, The Singing Epps Family, The Pine Ridge Boys, Kristen Stanton, Ava Kasich, Shane Cruse, The Connells, ClearVision Quartet, and The Drummond Family.
Honoring Veterans and First Responders on Thursday, March 24th Join us as we Celebrate Faith, Family and Freedom! On the first evening, Thursday, March 24th at 5:00pm, Southern Gospel Weekend will open the event by celebrating the Veterans and first responders through a special presentation of God and Country, complete with color guard and flag raising. Veterans and first responders will be honored by recognition and also special gifts from the Southern Gospel Weekend artists. Be sure to attend from the very first night of this great weekend of Gospel music as we give a tribute to our heroes.
Musical Showcases on Friday and Saturday Mornings On both Friday and Saturday mornings at 9:00am, Gospel music will fill the auditorium as SGW artists perform during the daytime showcases. Grab your coffee and come expecting more great music.
Pat Barker University on Friday, March 24th On Friday afternoon from 2:00 to 4:00pm, special guest Pat Barker will also be offering classes to assist Gospel music artists. From vocal coaching to stage presence, Barker will touch on everything the artist needs to present Christ, in the SGW version of the Pat Barker Univer-
Easley of Hey Y’all Media at 256-310-7892.
Exhibit Hall of Artists and Vendors Like other conventions, attendees are allowed ample time to stroll through vendor booths. This provides guests with the perfect opportunity to get to know their favorite artists and chat with old friends. The merchandise tables display the newest projects available for preview and purchase. In the past there have even been some spontaneous concerts and intercession happening in the halls of the Civic Center. Vendors selling snacks will also be on hand. sity. Artists and guests will be allowed to attend on a first come, first serve basis. Please call 256-310-7892 to reserve your seat today. The fee is $25 per person.
Breakfast With ClearVision on Saturday, March 25th On Saturday morning at 8:00am. you will enjoy a great Southern-style breakfast and listen to some of the best in Southern Gospel Music with host group, Clearvision Quartet and their special guests, Exodus. You will hear how the strength and grace of God has sustained the Dover family through the darkest time of their lives. Other artists and friends will be onhand to enjoy the food and fellowship. Cost is $10 per person.
Special VIP Seating Available Southern Gospel Weekend also hosts a VIP seating section. For $25, true Southern Gospel fans can purchase a pass that will assure them the best view of all the concerts for the entire event. Not only will they have the preferred seating, but also VIP pass holders will receive special gifts at the event. Anyone interested in purchasing a VIP pass for the Oxford event should contact Vonda
Call Vonda Easley at 256-310-7892 for tickets.Contact Salina Clay for hotel reservations at hotels@sgnscoops. com or call her at 256-239-7716. For more information visit: www.SouthernGospelWeekend.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ southerngospelweekend. Photographs courtesy of Southern Gospel Weekend, Vonda Easley, Michelle Drummond and Meagan Pledger and ClearVision Quartet.
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Jesus Loves You That Much: A Spotlight on the
Whisnants By Justin Gilmore
Southern Gospel music fans should be familiar with the sweet family harmonies of the Whisnants. Hailing from the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, this talented group is dedicated to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all people.
The Whisnants have been singing Southern Gospel Music since the 1970s and have had a blessed career that is rooted in Christ and family. Susan Whisnant recalls the early days of the group which began with Jeff, his brother John, and their parents. She explains, “The original Whisnants started in 1970 with Jeff’s mom and dad, his brother John, and Jeff. In 1988, Jeff married Susan Dry and they became a trio consisting of Jeff, Susan, and John. “In 1997, John left The Whisnants to answer the call to preach. The group has had no changes since 2001 and currently consists of Jeff and Susan, Aaron Hise, and their two sons, Austin and Ethan.” This solid vocal lineup has experienced great success with several hit songs and recordings.
Jeff Whisnant serves as the group’s baritone as well as the owner and manager. He is the only original member of the group. Susan’s beautiful alto voice is a vital part of the group’s sound. She has been singing with her husband for over 24 years. Aaron Hise serves as the group’s lead singer and is married to Suzanne Taylor Hise of the Taylors.
Rounding out the group are Jeff and Susan’s sons Austin (22) and Ethan (17). Austin plays the bass guitar and works the sound. Ethan Whisnant is the youngest member of the group and adds his vocals to this family affair. Both brothers also record together in addition to singing with their family. The group carries on the tradition of the great family groups of years past. The Whisnants drew inspiration from many of those wonderful groups to help develop their own unique sound. Susan says, “Our musical influences are groups like The Hinsons, The Rambos, The Happy Goodmans and The Cathedrals.... those are groups we listened to when we were young.” These legendary groups were the foundation for many of the great groups singing today and the Whisnants are no exception.
This dynamic trio has recorded some chart topping music over the years and their latest CD is a wonderful addition to the group’s discography. Whisnant explains, “Our latest mainline project is Walk Of Faith. It contains songs like ‘Worry Ends Where Faith Begins,’ a top five nominated song for 2016, ‘A Grave Mistake’ and ‘I Love You This Much.’ All three songs went to the number two spot in the Singing News Magazine.”
Walk Of Faith was released in 2015 and has been a favorite among Southern Gospel fans. Susan adds, “Our latest radio release is ‘I Love You This Much.’ This song impacted us the first time we heard it. It’s written by Sandy Blythe and she is such an anointed writer. The song tells you how much God loves us.....’He opened His arms and died for me.’ “It also talks about how we as Christians have memorized John 3:16, but sadly, we take for granted what Christ did for us! It reminds us that when we are taking for granted His love and what He did ....we need to go back to Calvary and see ‘His open arms again.’” This is a poignant song that has certainly struck a chord with audiences and listeners across the country. In the 40 years of full time singing, Jeff and his family have had many incredible opportunities to spread God’s love all over the world. According to the group’s website, The Whisnants have performed across the United States, Canada, and Hawaii. They also recently returned from a Singing At Sea cruise, where Aaron Hise celebrated his 40th birthday and his young daughter Adaline took her first steps. So many great moments to recall for years to come. Susan exclaims, “We have had many memorable experiences as we have traveled throughout the country. However, one of the most memorable
would be the first time we sang on the stage at National Quartet Convention in Nashville, TN. It was a huge honor and we were very thankful.”
Since that first performance at NQC, the group has continued to perform on the main stage and received many Singing News Fan Awards nominations and number one songs. However, it is not about the accolades, but rather the glory of Jesus Christ. For the Whisnants, the message of the Gospel is the most important aspect of their ministry. “We structure our concerts and our CDs in a way that if people listen to the message in our songs, they will be encouraged and blessed,” says Susan. The mission of the group is to encourage people to walk with Christ by being real. Whisnant explains, “One of our most popular songs specifically refers to the Savior as “The Potter” and us as “The Clay.” We always try to be transparent and use real life experiences to connect with our audience. The only difference [between] us and them is, we’re holding a microphone.” This is what it’s all about! We are all the same though our circumstances maybe different.
Susan also adds, “Every morning when my eyes open, I thank God that He woke me up and has given me another day. Being on stage is the easy part. It’s how we live out our lives when we’re shopping, eating out, going to the dry cleaners, etc, that really matters. A kind word, a smile, a good tip.....people
are watching us even closer in real life situations. God expects us to represent Him so that others will see Him through us.”
Now in 2017, the group shows no signs of slowing down. The future is looking bright for this talented family. This year is a busy one as many recordings are on the horizon. Susan is almost finished working on her upcoming solo project which is sure to delight audiences.
Susan adds, “The Whisnants are in the beginning stages of a new mainline project. Austin and Ethan will also have a new CD by fall. It’s gonna be a great year!” The Whisnants have truly dedicated their lives to serving Christ and their music reflects their love for Him. Through their music, the group continues to remind us to be a light for Christ so when the world sees you, they see Him. Jesus loves you so much more than you could ever know. He died so that we might live forever with Him. He loves us that much! Photographs courtesy of The Whisnants, Craig Harris and Ex Nihilo Media.
Hope To The Hill By Nathan Kistler
It is hard to believe that we are now a few months into this new year. We have a new President, Congress and a new Supreme Court Nominee. The fight to get Judge Gorsuch confirmed has been and will continue to be tough. Our allied ministry team decided that on the night of the nomination of Judge Gorsuch, we would kneel in front of the Supreme Court and pray, be the first to offer public prayer for the man who would take the place of Justice Scalia. There was a two fold purpose in this exercise. One, that there would be a group in support of prayer and the things of God, as there were over 400 protesters with signs, screaming, and only eight of us. Two, a way for us to exercise our first amendment rights to pray in public, but also to flex the muscle of the freedom of religion that we hold so dear. Our rights must be exercised just like a muscle whilst in the gym. If you don’t use it, you lose it. As we made a few statements as to why we were there and I began to sing “The Lord’s Prayer,” the protesters began screaming louder trying to drown out my voice. By the grace of God, my voice grew louder somehow and as I reached the pinnacle of the song, the protesters grew almost completely quiet for but a moment. It was almost like the Lord shut the mouths of the lions as it were. I tell you that it had nothing to do with me, but God was doing something special. After I sang, we knelt and began to pray for our nation and the Judge. It was a moment I will never forget. As I was walking through the crowd to head back to my office to grab some things, I heard people call me names and someone spat on me. I teared up as I thought of the many souls who were lost, broken, angry and hurt. Angry, that
we would pray in a public place, and lost without Jesus. I had never experienced anything like this in my life. Walking through people who were so angry, I could feel their hatred towards me. I wanted to turn and say, “I love you,” but did not in fear of their reply. The truth is that I do love them though. In that moment as the eight of us were kneeling in prayer, I began to think like Elijah in 1 Kings as he said, “I am the only one, and they are many.” It can be easy to think that we may be the only people of God left at times, but God reminds us time and time again that there are many more of His people doing good work for His glory.
I have been in the country of England during the month of February singing, speaking and spending time with close family friends. God has done great things and for that I am grateful. It has been eye opening to speak to those in the UK about our differences of opinion on politics and life in general. I was able to spend some wonderful time in Oxford with some dear ministry friends at one of the colleges at Oxford University. As is my normal tradition, I spent hours
the story of Hugh Latimer, Nicholas Ridley, and Thomas Cranmer.
walking around the city of Oxford taking in the history and architecture. I always walk past a small hole in the road on Carfax Street which has such meaning to me. This year, I decided to stop at a coffee shop, grab a tea and watch as people walked past this spot in the road to see if they noticed it. I spent almost an hour there and only two small groups of people stopped to even consider what this place was. I heard a man mention to his wife in wonder, “What is this hole with a cross made in the bricks?” I spoke up from behind them and said, “This is the place where the Oxford Three were burned at the stake for their faith.” A look of horror fell upon their faces as I shared
Latimer and Ridley were burned at the stake in October of 1555, and Cranmer in March of 1556, for not recanting their faith in Jesus. That hallowed ground, where so many thousands of people walk across daily without even knowing its history, was the very ground where the seeds of the Gospel were watered with the blood of saints. We owe a great debt to those men. It was because of their sacrifice that the Gospel was spread to a new land through the Pilgrims. America began because of men and ladies who gave their lives for the sake of the Gospel. May we never forget that. I am renewed in my desire to see all men saved and that the time is short. As I head back to Washington D.C., I am refocused for the work that must be done and difficulty which lies ahead. I pray that you will join us in the coming days not only in prayer, but in support for the work that must be done. We are but few laborers, and the harvest is plenty. God is so good to us and I am truly humbled to play but a small part in His plan. Your friend in Washington, Nathan Kistler. You can contact Nathan directly at 202-770-7300 or nathankistler@gmail.com. Learn more online at www.hopetothehill.com and www.nathankistler.com. Photographs courtesy of Nathan Kistler.
YOUNGErPERSPECTIVE
Jordan Lefevre
BY ERIN STEVENS A word from the writer… When you’re raised in and around good Gospel music all your life, at some point, it seeps into your soul and you can’t quite get enough! That is the case with Jordan LeFevre of The LeFevre Quartet. I’m going to have Jordan tell you, in his own words, how this great music has impacted him along the way. Pull up a chair and take a listen, friends! Erin: Even though you’ve been a key member of the group from the start, let’s go back farther. When did you first discover your love for music as a child? Jordan: Well, I guess you could say I fell in love with Gospel music at a very young age. There are numerous pictures of me at the age of around three or four, standing in a suit with a microphone my dad had given me, singing along to old Gold City and Brian Free & Assurance cassettes. So honestly, it has always been a deep passion of mine, and there really isn’t a time when I’m not listening to music! Erin: How many instruments do you play and what is your preferred instrument of choice? Jordan: I can play two instruments: drums and bass guitar. I am, for sure, more comfortable behind a drum kit. I got my first drum set at the age of four and taught myself to play. As I started getting older, I would practice nearly every day for hours. At that point, I’m sure my parents were regretting the drums! To this day, I love playing, and still have them set up in my studio at home; I also play drums in recording sessions. Erin: What falls under “Jordan’s responsibilities” on the LeFevre bus? Jordan: I think the better question would be, “What is NOT Jordan’s responsibility?!” Honestly, I have been working with the group for so many years now, I have learned a lot of things by default. At the age of 15, my dad started training
me to drive the bus, and since then, I’ve become the designated driver. I also service the generator, fix anything I can, or if the bus has to go to the shop, I take care of that, too. I’m also in charge of running sound from the stage; that was actually my first job with the group when I was 13. Erin: How do you vocally prep for a concert? Jordan: Well for me, unfortunately, I can’t just open my mouth and it sounds great. I actually have an all day process/ritual I try to stick to. First thing when I wake up in the morning, I drink coffee, then follow with water. For lunch, I will only drink water, and stay away from anything that might gum me up, such as cheese, milk; etc. About an hour before we sing, I will drink two bottles of water, then go into the shower room in our bus, because of the acoustics, and do my vocal exercises. What a process, right?! Erin: How did you and Ali meet? Jordan: Actually, [it was] thanks to Gospel music. Her family were big fans of Gold City while Dad was there and he got to know Ali’s family. There are actually pictures of my dad holding Ali as a baby. Over the years, while
Dad was off the road and spending time at home, they lost contact. Fast forward several years to when we started the group in 2005. One of our first trips was to Mississippi to do a concert with Ali’s family group and I saw her there for the first time. I was so stunned by how pretty she was, I didn’t speak; I was too nervous! Having always regretted not talking to her that night, four years ago I added her on Facebook, just to see what she was doing now. A couple of weeks went
I Jordan: Neck ties for me! LOVE Mexican - sometimes I eat it several days in a row! Theatre for sure, love the atmosphere. Pandora. Universal. Erin: What is a key scripture you consider as your life verse? Why does this hold such personal meaning to you? Jordan: Joshua 24:15 “But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve… But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” To me, it perfectly describes the ministry that we are called to do. In serving the Lord, not only are we called but our spouses have to be called just as much. For us to spend as much time away from home as we do, we have to have a support system. Without a strong and called spouse, I surely couldn’t live out my calling and my dream to sing Gospel music. Erin: How and at what point in life did you come to know Christ?
by and she happened to comment on something I posted. I finally got my chance to talk to her! Eight months later we were married and we just welcomed our first child, Jayce, on June 27, 2016, into our family.
Jordan: I was very fortunate to be raised in a godly household. Some of my earliest memories are at church with my family. At a very young age I had, what I now call, an ‘experience,’ where I went through the motions but didn’t truly give my heart to God. Honestly, I did it just to say I had prayed a prayer and I went with that for several years. Almost two years ago, that all changed. We were booked to do a revival down in Louisiana and during part of this revival each member of the group was supposed to speak and share their testimony. I was dreading that part because deep down, I knew that I wasn’t saved. So as the nights went on I started feeling a deep conviction and finally the night came for me
Erin: What’s a weird/wacky quirk not many people would guess about you? Jordan: I am an admitted clean freak. I’m to a point where I am almost OCD [Obsessive Compulsive Disorder] about it. Everything has to have its exact place and I have to know where everything is. I am especially that way with my truck and the bus. I’d say I get that from my mother, for sure. Erin: Are there any new, exciting things coming for the group this year you can share with the readers? Jordan: There are a lot of things I am excited about. We are currently working on two brand new CDs that we are pouring our hearts into. I really think people will love the songs we have picked out. I have church in my truck just listening to the demos while learning the material. Also, we just had Keith Plott join our group, filling the bass position. Many people know Keith, as he was with Brian Free for several years, but he has spent the last few years as a solo artist. He is a fan favorite and he’s looking forward to meeting so many of our friends. Erin: Neck ties or bow ties? Mexican or Italian food? Netflix or theatre goer? Pandora or Spotify? Disney or Universal?
to speak. I knew I couldn’t share because I knew my heart wasn’t right. Finally, I couldn’t take it anymore. I found the pastor literally five minutes before the service and I prayed and accepted Jesus as my Savior! It was like a massive weight was lifted off my shoulders. So that night I got up and shared how I had been singing about Jesus all my life, but that I came to know Him that very night, and through my testimony several people were saved that night, too.
Erin: What is the legacy you want to leave behind for the next generation as you continue to carry on the family business? Jordan: I want to leave behind a legacy that says, “It’s not about the size of the stage you perform on. It’s about the people you touch and that come to know Christ because of the ministry that He has blessed us with.” Closing words from the writer… It’s an audience of One. Plain and simple. No matter your occupation, all the glory should continually be pointing upward to our Heavenly Father. Thank you, Jordan, for reminding us of that today. If we aren’t living lives that glorify Him, then all else will be done in vain. Colossians 3:23 tells us: “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” May our lives be a light that illuminates the way for someone else to find Christ. And that’s my take on it. Until next month, Scoops fans. Photographs courtesy of Jordan LeFevre. Connect with Erin: Twitter - @photosforkeeps Instagram - @photos_for_keeps Who would YOU like to see Erin interview next?
March 2017 This chart was compiled from a list of reporting stations. Each month we will be adding more stations.
1
The Tribute Quartet
Never Forsaken
2
The Lore Family
Because Of Calvary
3
The Common Bond Quartet
Do You Know Him
4
11th Hour
He Welcomes The Beggar
5
The Whisnants
I Love You This Much
6
Jason Crabb
If I Shout
7
The Wisecarvers
Don't You Think You Ought To Worship Me
8
The Hyssongs
It Doesn't Get Better Than This
9
The Erwins
Only Faith Can See
10
The Bates Family
That Day
11
The Kingsmen
Here I Stand Amazed
12
The Mylon Hayes Family
I Choose To Stand
13
Caleb's Crossing
Good Things
14
The Triumphant Quartet
Living In The Promised Land
15
The Taylors
We Are Not Ashamed
16
The Bowling Family
Mourning Into Dancing
17
Karen Peck and New River
I Choose Christ
18
Legacy Five
Still
19
The Hoskins Family
Unbreak The World
20
The Mark Dubbeld Family
The Blood-Stained Way
21
The Broken Vessels
American Christian
22
The Nelons
My Father's House
23
The Sneed Family
The News For Today
24
The Pine Ridge Boys
I've Got A New Song
25
The Kingdom Heirs
Saving Us A Place In The Choir
26
Three Bridges
Shadrach
27
The Wilbanks
Thy Kingdom Come
28
The Diplomats
Let Your Light Shine
29
The Troy Burns Family
Somebody Go Get Jesus
30
The Talleys
There Is Coming A Day
31
Brian Free and Assurance
Somebody's Miracle
32
Canton Junction
When He Was On The Cross
33
Chris Freeman
Too Many Times
34
The Freedom Quartet
I Am A Christian
35
The Joyaires
For My Good
36
The Rochesters
I'm Gonna Need A Hand
37
Cornerstone
What The Preacher Said
38
Shellem Cline
Why Can't Christians Share The Love Of Christ
39
The Second Half Quartet
I'm Standing On Holy Ground
40
Debra Perry and Jaidyn's Call
It's Time To Walk On Water
41
The Common Bond Quartet
Jesus Still Loves Me
42
John Whisnant
There He Is
43
Steve Ladd
One More River
44
The Jordan Family Band
The Day
45
Sunday Drive
A Good Song
46
The Hoppers
If We Ever Gotta Look
47
The Inspirations
What All The Shouting's About
48
Greater Vision
Toes In The Water
49
Larry Ray
What A Glad Reunion Day
50
Dallas Rogers
Beyond The Gates
51
Reborn
Can He Count On You
52
Mercy's Bridge
One Day You Will
53
Heaven's Mountain Band
I Went Under The Blood
54
Jeff and Sheri Easter
Someone's Listening
55
Austin and Ethan Whisnant
There's Nothing God Can't Do
56
The Millers
I've Got A Lot To Thank The Lord For
57
The McKameys
Something Worth Saving
58
Rejeana Leath
A Walking Miracle
59
The Victory Trio
He Put My Past In The Past
60
Adam's Voice
The Church Has Left The Building
61
The Perrys
Cry No More
62
Ivan Parker
Mama's Rocking Chair
63
Surrendered
I've Been To The Well
64
Greater Vision
Never Will I Ever Again
65
The Chuck Wagon Gang
Pray The Power Down
66
HighRoad
We Are Broken
67
Great Day
Journey On
68
Mark Bishop and Forget The Sea
Pick Me Up And Carry Me
69
Mercy's Well
Deliver Me Through
70
Aaron and Amanda Crabb
I've Seen What He Can Do
71
Cross Pointe
Angels
72
The Dixie Melody Boys
The Lord Will Make A Way Somehow
73
Wilburn and Wilburn
Living Proof
74
Jordan's Crossing
The Reason
75
The Joylanders
Why Don't You Try Jesus
76
Gordon Mote
Oh The Blood
77
The Carolina Boys Quartet
Treasures In Heaven
78
Sherry Damron
I See The Lord
79
Jason Crabb
Home
80
Steve Hess and Southern Salvation
Carry The Message
81
The Guardians
It Ain't Gonna Worry Me Long
82
The Down East Boys
The Song Of The Ransomed
83
The Kramers
Look For Me
84
Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver
Burden Bearer
85
The Williamsons
He Lived To Tell It
86
Wilburn and Wilburn
It's What He's Done
87
Doug Anderson
Little White Church House
88
The Mark Dubbeld Family
This Is What I Know
89
Mike Manuel
Where's The Family
90
Shane Cruse
I Held On
91
Shenandoah
Like Everyday's A Sunday
92
Journeys
Mercy On Me
93
Amy Richardson
Sweet Whispers
94
Lakeside
Almost
95
The Collingsworth Family
Gotta Get To Jesus
96
Jim Brady Trio
Homesick For Heaven
97
The Blackwood Brothers Quartet
When I Cross To The Other Side Of Jordan
98
The Griffith Family
I'm Gonna Leave The Light On
99
Messiah's Call
Livin' In Me
100 Amber Nelon Thompson
God Is Always Good
Southern Gospel NY 3250 Big Ridge Road Spencerport, NY 14559 585-329-3840 585-208-0916
www.sgny.net Help Spread the news We are bringing Southern Gospel Music Back to the Rochester, NY Area
Introducing Bob and Joyce Spamer of Spencerport, NY They have a mission to bring Southern Gospel Music back to the Rochester, NY area and are asking that you pray God’s blessings on what they are doing. It has been a real struggle they say, as there as not been anyone in the area to promote Southern Gospel for years and with God’s help and your Prayers they believe this will be a success. Do you know someone in area? Tell them about SGNY and join us in prayer for Bob, Joyce and Southern Gospel NY
Heaven Bound A Bus, Four Guys, and A Vision By Charlie Griffin
In the beginning, the Foundations Quartet of Pikeville, NC originated in 1971 under the tutelage of Ken Eubanks and James Mercer. Ken Eubanks recruited Allen Ham to sing the tenor after his military service. Then Ham asked Lawrence Taylor to sing in the group. Taylor joined the group and his vocals helped form the iconic quartet sound of the Foundations. At an outdoor concert at Atlantic Christian College, the quartet was setting up to sing. Ham and Jeff Gibson were attending the college at that time. Gibson noticed the group had drums but was not setting them up due to the drummer not being there. After talking to the guys for a bit, Jeff played drums during that night’s concert. A few days later he was offered the drummer position with group. The group recorded at Tri-State Recording in Kingsport, TN and later for Mission Records in Nashville, TN. Then Ham, Eubanks, Taylor and Gibson in 1975 left the Foundations forming what became one of the most dynamic trios in Southern Gospel music: Heaven Bound. So now let’s look at the rest of their story.
Heaven Bound (left to right). Ken Eubanks, Jeff Gibson, Lawrence Taylor and Allen Ham Heaven Bound’s sound was Allen Ham - tenor, Lawrence Taylor - lead, Jeff Gibson - baritone/ bass guitar and Ken Eubanks - piano. In 1976, the newly formed group debuted with a rich full trio sound that had not been heard in Gospel music since the Sons of Song. Over the next five years the group recorded with Trail Records, QCA Records, Calvary Records and Gold Nugget Records. The debut of the new trio was also the debut of Jeff Gibson, the songwriter. His lyric prowess was honed on the
first recording with “I’m Heaven Bound.” Every following project featured Gibson songs. Today in the Benson catalogs, there are over 300 songs of Gibson. He also has over 220 individual songs recorded by Heaven Bound, Kingsmen, Cathedrals, Gold City and countless others.
A City.” In 1985, their Heartwarming In Concert recording was a collection of timeless Heaven Bound classics. “When Jesus Passed By,” quickly became a fan favorite.
It was during the Calvary Records timeline that things truly took on a new pace. Having met Wayne Gaskins in Florida at a Talent Search, the group recorded their first national album featuring “I’m Ready, Willing and Waiting.” It is during this time Gaskins teamed up with Ronnie Drake to form the ground-breaking company Wind Chime. Heaven Bound was their premier artist. The first Wind Chime recording featuring the hit song “Canaanland is Just in Sight.” In 1981, the first Wind Chime album, Thinkin’ ‘bout Home, featured a studio cut of Jeff Gibson’s song, “Canaanland is Just in Sight.” The song was number one in Gospel music in multiple music charts. It was the most popular song of 1982 according to the Singing News. Since that time the song has achieved classic status, being recorded countless times by numerous artists. It is also during this time Century Two Talent heard and signed the group to an exclusive booking arrangement. From Century Two Promotions, (now BSA Talent) President Beckie Simmons says, “I will never forget my introduction to Heaven Bound. A promoter called saying he had heard this group on the radio. He wanted to know if I booked Heaven Bound. Well I said no, but I would find out. I called the record company to find out who booked them. Now knowing they did their own scheduling, I called to talk to them. I wound up booking the very first date where I heard Heaven Bound with the Kingsmen. They were great. We had a long successful partnership over the years. You know they did it right. They had great radio airplay, new songs and their sound was perfect for the times. Great harmony and personalities. I still love Heaven Bound.” Through the many penned lyrics of Jeff Gibson, Heaven Bound continued to chart songs consistently. Many of the their most requested songs included “I Know My God Can Do It,” “Old Fashioned Way,” and “Oh What
Lawrence, Allen, Ken and Jeff on stage fan photo shot. Moving to Riversong Records with Bill Traylor, the release of Revived showed just how versatile the group could sing. Over the following years the group recorded for Skyline Records, Benson Records, Horizon Records, Zion Music Group, MorningStar Records, Three Hills Music and their own custom labels. Their sound was full, exciting and abounding with energy. Now, being from eastern North Carolina, the country boys grew up in the same surrounding Kinston area, Hugo, Hookerton, Grifton, Wilson and La Grange. They attended churches together, went to the same schools and colleges. Their families knew each other. Heaven Bound was and is today still a family. Ham shares, “Getting started as Heaven Bound, knowing that all members were on the same page with the same goal and that there was a brotherhood with a desire to minister through song wherever we could go, I felt that we were a group of young men from the country that loved the Lord and singing. God blessed Jeff to write some of the greatest songs of gospel music and we had the opportunity to share them with people for the first time. Listening to XM radio now and hearing some of our songs brings back memories of many people and places. I’m really blessed to have been able to sing with these brothers. And they are my ‘Brothers.’”
Allen sang tenor with the group until 1988. He has since been on six missionary trips to the Navajo Reservation and many revivals and solo singing dates. For the past 10 years he has served as Chaplain at a Developmental Disabilities Center in Kinston. He says, “Serving this special needs population has been one of the most challenging and rewarding positions I’ve ever been called to work in.” He and Glenna are celebrating 46 wonderful years together. He relates, “Both of my daughters have married singing preachers and have a boy and a girl each. My wife is retiring this January and plans to do some serious grand-parenting!”
Today he and his wife Cyndi are involved in pastoring, revivals and sing in the Augusta, GA area. Heaven Bound with Rick Busby singing tenor.
Taylor exclaims, “Century Two heard us sing with the Kingsmen and Gold City and started booking our dates. Then being a trio and singing at the National Quartet Convention was groundbreaking within itself. Our first concert at NQC was a humbling experience. Having all the groups and our fans from everywhere in one place; how awesome is that? When we sang “Canaanland” it was our introduction into the world of Gospel music. The night “Canaanland” won Song of the Year in 1982, we felt the open arms of our peers within Gospel music.” Lawrence left the group in 1992. His late wife passed away unexpectedly. Yet he continued to sing solo appearances and with Mended Wings during this time. He has since re-married and with wife Jamie, currently pastors at Bethany Baptist Church and continues to sing in revivals and for special occasions. Gibson states, “The Lord really used “Canaanland” to open every door for us. We had many top five or top 10 songs over the years, but “Canaanland” was always our most requested. It is amazing to see how the Lord used and is still using that song. To God be the glory. I guess if I had to pick one word to describe Heaven Bound it would be ministry. That was always our desire from the beginning just to magnify Him in some way through our songs and be a blessing to others on the journey.” Gibson left the group in 1995. Yet his involvement continues today teaching music in the school system. He continues to write music and sing in church and is active with his wife Bern and two children, Lauren and Hunt. His impact in Gospel music continues today as his songs are being recorded by numerous artists. As the original members left, others joined. Most noted was the addition of Rick Busby after Ham left. Busby came to the group after a stint with the Florida Boys. He quickly earned the respect of Heaven Bound fans and was richly loved by many. Busby left the group in 1993.
Heaven Bound as a quartet, prior to disbanding. Other tenors included Anthony Facello and Derrick Boyd. Jody Bridgers replaced Taylor and later Bill Shivers joined as lead singer. Craig Singletary joined as baritone with the Gibson departure. For a time Heaven Bound was a quartet with Ron Bright singing the bass notes while band members included Ken Eubanks Jr. on drums and Kevin Pulley on bass. After the departure of the original members, Eubanks worked to provide the same dedication to harmony, styling and ministry. In 2002, after 26 successful years, the group disbanded with heavy hearts. After countless awards as a group and individually over the years, the time had come to take on new ventures. During all these changes, the one constant original was Ken Eubanks on piano. He has been noted as one of the most exciting concert pianists in Gospel music. His style was true ‘camp meeting’ with a touch of class. Eubanks says, “I still think our Pentecostal background defined us as a group. Just like when Jeff wrote “Canaanland,” it become our song. It changed everything for us. I thought
we had better songs. But the fans proved me wrong. “Canaanland” resonated with them and still does. Singing at the NQC after attending it was always a highlight, and then we appeared at Carnegie Hall three times, that was impressive to us.” Since the group’s disbanding, Ken has been minister of music at a couple of area churches. He tunes pianos along the way and still enjoys a good piano lick. He is employed with University of Mt. Olive in Mt. Olive, NC. He and Sylvia have been married 46 years with two children, Ken Jr. and Kris. With the children’s marriage the Eubanks are spoiling four grandsons and one granddaughter. And a new grandson is on the way, due in March 2017.
Heaven Bound concert at the Hallelujah Supper Club circa 1982. On a personal note, I booked Heaven Bound in 1981 for the first time. “Canaanland” was the hot song in the Carolinas. Their first Hallelujah Supper Club appearance was to a packed house. Over the years they became more than just an appearing guest artist. They became friends. I remember this most; during any conversation, somehow their vision of ministry would come into the mix. Each shared the same direction, passion and desire to affect others for Christ through their music and words. And today that has not changed. As HSC Director Joyce Harris said many times, “To know them is to love them!” Heaven Bound was loved for sure. Yes, Heaven Bound was A Bus, Four Guys and A Vision. Yet they were and are so much more than the sum of it all. As you can see, their devotion to music, ministry, family and their faith remains focused and steadfast. Their vision is still alive today and has expanded into different branches of service. So when you hear that timeless Heaven Bound tune “Canaanland Is Just In Sight,”
you will certainly be singing it for some time to come, but you will also experience their living vision to reach people with a positive life-changing song!
Randall Reviews It - March 2017 by Randall Hamm
Friends: Oh my. Here it is March, the third month of the year and spring is just right around the corner, the season of new birth for all things. The lead up to Easter begins this month as well. So, happy March everyone and this month, I have three new CDs I have reviewed. A new group, a Gospel legend and one who has become a fan favorite as part of the Homecoming Friends. So let the reviews begin! And as always, pick up a copy of these CDs wherever you get your good Gospel music. Randall Please send your latest releases for review to Randall Hamm, c/o Q-100 WFLQ-FM, P.O. Box 100, French Lick, IN 47432. Now‌let the reviews begin.
Gene McDonald Reflections Producer: Kevin Williams 2017 All Aboard (PD); Stand By Me (PD); Holy Ground (Geron Davis); Hallelujah For The Cross (Ross King-Todd Wright); These Things Shall Pass (Stuart Hamblen); The Center Of My Joy (Richard Smallwood); This Ole House (Stuart Hamblen); Wayfaring Stranger; Reflection Of Perfection (Steven Curtis Chapman); Stand By Me (Charles Albert Tindley); I Walked Today Where Jesus Walked (Gloria Gaither-Greg Nelson) One of the most-loved bass singers of recent times and a favorite on the Gaither Homecomings, Gene McDonald is back with a new CD called Reflections. This is Gene’s fifth solo release and his best yet, as he dips back into the Gospel bag and brings us a mix of old classics and some newer ones that could be future
classics. “All Aboard” gets the CD started in fine fashion with some help from Charlotte Ritchie, Joyce Martin Sanders, and Becky Isaacs Bowman, fellow Homecoming tourmates. Gene does a great reading of the Signature Sound classic, “Stand By Me,” and Gene also does the classic version of “Stand By Me,” with the Bethel University Renaissance Choir helping out. Gene’s first single release is “This Ole House.” Gene changed up the arrangement, giving it a more bluesy feel, putting his mark on the classic. Also helping out Gene on the track is Adam Crabb and Shane McConnell. Gene also does another Hamblen song, “These Things Shall Pass,” to perfection. Newer songs that may be classics one day “Hallelujah For The Cross,” a song that was cut by the Newsboys, and a Steven Curtis Chapman tune “Reflection Of Perfection,” which gives the CD its name. Overall a wonderful CD, with many guests that include Joyce Martin, Becky Isaacs Bowman, Charlotte Ritchie, Adam Crabb, Angela Primm, Shane McConnell, Devonne Folkes, and Reggie and Ladye Love Smith and they help make this CD a delight to listen to. Visit Gene at https://www.facebook.com/ genemcdonaldmusic/ and get a copy of Reflections at https://genemcdonaldmusic.ecwid.com/# or whereever you get your good Gospel Music.
Songs: Choices (Rachel Lynn Sancricca); In The Beginning (Rachel Lynn Sancricca); Tell Me (Rachel Lynn Sancricca); Room On The Rock (Rebecca J Peck); Pure Grace (Marcia Henry-Sue C. Smith); Heavenly (Rebecca J Peck-Steven Cheney); Ready Set Shout (Rachel Lynn Sancricca); If There’s One Thing I Know About The Lord (Rachel Lynn Sancricca); Everything But Mine (Rachel Lynn Sancricca); Prepare Ye The Way (Rachel Lynn Sancricca) Brand new music from the ladies’ trio based out of the Detroit, Michigan area, Master’s Promise. I first met these ladies after a long night at NQC in 2013. Strolling through the aisles and looking at booths, where no one seemed to be at home, these ladies were in. They happened to be playing their music and as I listened, we struck up a conversation. I got their music and an interview for my program, and began a friendship with these lovely young ladies. That was almost four years ago and now their third release to Gospel music, Choices is available. This is their first truly national release, their first two being table releases for sale at their concerts. The group is comprised of Katelyn Montgomery, and two sisters Rachel and Hannah Sancricca. Their last two CDs featured a few songs written by group members, but this CD features seven out of the 10 releases written by member Rachel Sancricca. The CD gets underway with “Choices;” choose joy, choose life, choose love, choose Christ.“In The Beginning,” God, and in the end God. Whom shall I serve but the Maker who was “In The Beginning.” “Tell Me,” finds the trio in a jazzy mood talking about an ever-living God, who gave me more than you can ever “Tell Me.” There’s “Room On The Rock,” a Rebecca Peck and Marcia Henry song, that sounds like it could be a possible single.
Master’s Promise Choices Producer: Les Butler 2017 Butler Music Group
The prettiest song comes at the halfway point of the CD: “Pure Grace.” It’s grace, God’s amazing grace; every single time that you need it, reach out and receive it. Heavenly harmonies from Master’s Promise and lyrics from Marcia Henry and Sue C. Smith fit together like a hand in a glove. It’s gonna be Heaven, oh, so “Heavenly,” the joys we will share. “Ready, Set, Shout!” Get ready for the day when we reach the other side, what a day that will be.
“If There’s One Thing I Know About The Lord,” is that He saves; amen. I was so good and I was so kind, but it came down to believing, He was “Everything But Mine.” What a truth is found in this song. “Prepare Ye The Way;” make the path straight, let us proclaim, He’s come to save. Be listening for their first national single release, “Prepare Ye The Way,” this month on your favorite Gospel station. Master’s Promise is set for a breakout year and this CD showcases how far they have come since 2013. Truly one of the groups to watch for and hear when you get chance to see them in concert. Visit Master’s promise at https://www.facebook.com/ MastersPromise/ . To get a copy of Choices, go to http://www.masterspromise.com/store.html or get it where you get your good Gospel music. Strongest Songs: “Pure Grace,” “Room On the Rock,” and “Everything But Mine.”
is back with a new CD that will quickly become one of your favorites as it has mine. Because He Loved Me is a 10-song CD that you will enjoy for years to come. The title track and first single, “Because He Loved Me,” is a re-recording of a Downings’ track from their 1971 LP’s Once More With Feeling and This Is How It Is…Live. I have always loved the original; now 46 years later, Ann sings it even more soulful and meaningful. The CD kicks off with a rousing song that will have you shouting and singing; “Extraordinary Faith,” is a great song to kick off the CD. “Run To The Shepherd,” has Ann bringing us to church complete with organ. Warning, if you’re driving, resist the urge to clap, but by all means shout and make a glad noise unto the Lord. “Be Still” is one of my favorites on the CD. Such an insightful song. Wondering in all your confusion, where is God? “Be Still and know that He is God. He is with you every step. Be still and listen for His Word. Every prayer you have prayed He has heard. Just be still.” “Sounds Like A Job For God;” when a task at hand is great and I can’t make it on my own, it “Sounds Like A Job For God.” “King Of Glory,” is a wonderful Praise and Worship song that I hope may make it to many Church choirs. Absolutely beautiful and I have found myself clicking repeat on this song quite a bit.
Ann Downing Because He Loved Me 2017 Inspire/Chapel Valley
“I Am The Way,” I hope finds its way to be a single release. It is based on the return of Mary to the tomb and finding Jesus gone. Turning around, Mary saw Him, and He asked Mary: “Tell me why you weep and who are you looking for?” He said, “If you open up your heart, you will see that ‘I Am The Way,’” and so many other things.
Songs: Extraordinary Faith (Ann Downing- Toni Clay); Run to the Shepherd (Toni Clay-Laurie Winton); Be Still (Ann Downing-Gina Vera); Sounds Like a Job For God (Ann Downing-Ricky Atkinson); King of Glory (Ann Downing -Darrel Harris-Dwight Liles); I Am the Way (Ann Downing -Toni Clay); His Light Has Led Me All the Way (Ann Downing- Lee Black); Come Into His Presence (Ann Downing-Gina Vera); You Don’t Really Know God (Ann Downing-Gina Vera); Because He Loved Me (Alice Wilson)
“His Light Has Led Me All The Way,” and His light still makes the difference today. “Come Into His Presence;” have you ever found yourself, lost, alone, lonely or having exhausted every option you can find? My friend Jesus has the answers to all your problems. Just “Come Into His Presence.”
One of the true legends in Gospel music, Ann Downing,
I have known Ann for most of my 22 years DJ’ing and
Ann picks up the pace and kicks it into high gear with “You Don’t Really Know God.” Caution, may cause one to shout, “Glory!”
spinning her music. This CD, in my opinion, is the best of her career. From Ann’s vocals, to the Chapel Valley musicians, the selection of the music and the sequence of which the songs were arranged, this CD is an enjoyable delight. I hope that this CD garners the attention of the Grammy and Dove folks. Visit Ann at https://www.facebook.com/www. anndfanpage/ and get a copy of Because He Loved Me, at https://www.anndowning.com/adm-store or wherever you get your good Gospel music. Strongest Songs: “Because He Loved Me,” “I Am The Way,” and “Be Still.”
2nd Generation
“On Business For The King” with
By Debbie Seagraves Oak Grove, Arkansas, a little town that runs along the Indian River to the Missouri state line is where you will find Brenda Denney and Elaine Robinson when they are not on the road singing. These beautiful ladies make up a huge part of the trio called 2nd Generation. Randy Barnes is the third member of the group. He came to them in 2013 as a retired Texas state trooper who also sang with the Voyagers Quartet and the Melody Boys Quartet. Brenda and Elaine grew up in a pastor’s home. Their father was an old-time preacher man and their mother taught them how to sing. They traveled and were known as The Singing Greens in the ‘70’s and even made a west coast tour. “We recorded albums in Nashville, attended the National Quartet Convention several years, and as little girls we dreamed of singing on that Stage,” says Brenda. Once the girls were married they began raising their families and working in their home churches. They enjoyed successful careers for many years before hitting the road again in full time ministry.
The girls’ greatest influences were The Happy Goodmans, The Rambos, The Downings, The Rex Nelon Singers, Bill Gaither, and Lanny Wolfe. Many nights they would fall asleep to a stack of records on the record player playing all these Gospel greats. Brenda exclaims, “Gospel Music runs deep in our roots and once it’s in your bones there is no turning back.” Denney says that 2nd Generation (2nd G) started with Elaine, Brenda and their youngest brother, Steve. “We all knew we had a calling on our lives to do this. We had all worked in our home churches, but every service we would leave feeling like there was something missing. One day we were all in the car and we had a conversation about our lives and what we felt God was calling us to do. We all three had identical dreams and we knew it was God confirming it was time to hit the road once again and start spreading the gospel through song. Our brother sang with us for a couple of years and then Randy Barnes joined the group and has been with us ever since.” There have been many challenges and rewards of being
in ministry for the group. “When you are in God’s will for your life there will always be challenges, but the rewards are always greater,” says Denney. “The best reward of all is to see someone accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Also, when someone comes up and shares their hearts with us and tells us how they have been blessed by our ministry, because it is not about 2nd G, it’s all about Jesus.”
God has truly blessed the trio for putting Him first. Denney remembers a time back in 2005 when they heard their first radio single on the radio for the first time. She said they pulled over in a parking lot and got out of the car and began to scream with excitement. “You see we grew up looking up to those groups we heard on the radio. We had a dream of one day doing the same thing and it had finally happened. We have had numerous Singing News Top 80 hits and other charts as well and we are so thankful to radio for supporting us by playing our music. We have been nominated for several awards and even won the Sunrise Award with the Diamond Awards. We have appeared at Singing in the Sun, Gatlinburg Gathering, on TBN, Silver Dollar City just to name a few.” A few years ago, the trio attended a certain award show and had been nominated for an award. When they arrived at the award show she said they felt like they were being treated as if they didn’t belong there. In fact, every other artist that was nominated in their category was asked to perform one song that night, but 2nd G was not asked and they didn’t win the award. Afterwards the trio went out to eat and in walked Lari Goss. He had never met them and didn’t have a clue who 2nd Generation was, or so they thought. Goss
walked over to them and asked why they didn’t get to sing at the awards. He went on to encourage them and make them feel as though they mattered and that they were important. “So many times the industry side of things can be so disappointing, but if you are in God’s will, He will always confirm it and bless you in it no matter what. We love to encourage newer groups to keep their eyes on Him and not them. He has a plan and as long as you are in it that is all that matters,” states Denney. It’s not always easy to keep your eyes on Jesus. When you see 2nd G on a platform you are seeing three people that have been through hurt, divorce, disappointment, devastation, and so much more. But God has brought them through it all and now they can stand and share with others that are facing the same issues, just how faithful God has been to see them through every trial they have faced. “Once again, it’s all about Him, not us,” Denney says. 2nd Generation’s current radio single is a classic song written by Joel Hemphill entitled “I Came On Business For The King.” “I (Brenda) started singing this song when I was about 12 years old and we decided to bring it back. DJ’s love it and it is quickly becoming a listener favorite. This song is truly 2nd G’s testimony because every week when we hit the road, we are ‘on business for the King.’”
This ‘business’ is not all big stages and bright lights. “As young kids we would attend NQC with our family group and sit in the nosebleed section, singing along and dreaming of one day singing on Main Stage. Since we started 2nd Generation, we have attended several years and we sang on whatever showcase that would
have us. We would get up there and give it all we had but never make it onto Main Stage. Year after year we would do this and every year we had a smile on our face and we kept a good attitude about it. The main reason is because we love what we have been called to do.
She said that when we sang she felt something she had never felt before and I had the opportunity to share Jesus with her. Tears ran down her face and she thanked me. “You see, we didn’t get to sing on Main Stage but we were on the stage God wanted us to be on. He knew what that young lady needed that day.” Denney continues,“We recently received some very exciting news. 2nd Generation is being added to the Main Stage lineup for 2017. We are beyond excited, thankful and every other emotion you can think of. To some it’s just a stage, to some it means nothing, but to us it means that God does want to meet our heart’s desires. He knows our hearts and why we do what we do. Singing on Main Stage may not ever do anything for us as far as the industry goes, but it means the world to us and we are very thankful.”
“In 2016 once again we loaded up and headed to NQC but because of our schedule we could only be there one day. We had an interview with Paul Heil of the Gospel Greats and performed on one showcase. Once again we were not chosen to move on up to Main Stage. But we smiled, held our heads high and thanked God for the opportunity to sing for Jesus. “After we sang I went to buy a bottle of water at the concession stand and the young lady that waited on me said, ‘I love your singing.’ I replied, ‘Thank you.’
“One thing is for sure and that is this: When we take that stage, we will once again be ‘On Business for the King.’” “If you come to a 2nd Generation concert, you can expect to have fun; we are going to have a good time,” concludes Denney. “You will laugh, cry, and we pray you will leave changed in Jesus’ name.”
DVD Reviews: Gaither Homecoming Friends Give The World A Smile and Sweeter As The Days Go By By Justin Gilmore
Release Date: February 24, 2017 Label: Gaither Music Group SWEETER AS THE DAYS GO BY SONG LIST: PROMISES ONE BY ONE featuring Buddy Mullins, Shane McConnell SWEETER AS THE DAYS GO BY featuring The Nelons, Sheri Easter, Wesley Pritchard, Angela Primm, Wes Hampton, Larnelle Harris, Joe Bonsall THE SECRET featuring Terry Blackwood and The Imperials HOLY SPIRIT, THOU ART WELCOME YOU’VE GOT A FRIEND featuring Bill Gaither & Todd Suttles with the Gaither Vocal Band ROSES WILL BLOOM AGAIN featuring Jeff & Sheri Easter IT IS NO SECRET featuring The Booth Brothers THE EASTERN GATE featuring Goodman Revival THE SWEETEST SONG I KNOW featuring Goodman Revival, Russ Taff, Michael English REST IN YOU TONIGHT featuring The Oak Ridge Boys HE SPEAKS TO ME featuring Cynthia Clawson, Michael Sykes, Michael English AT CALVARY featuring The Collingsworth Family WE’LL UNDERSTAND IT BETTER BY AND BY featuring Amy Lambert, Shane McConnell, Lillie Knauls, Larnelle Harris CLEAN featuring The Gatlin Brothers BUT GOD featuring Larnelle Harris
I DO BELIEVE featuring Ernie Haase & Signature Sound WHEN GOD SEEMS SO NEAR featuring Layke Jones, Autumn Nelon Thompson, Brooklyn Collingsworth WE’LL TALK IT OVER featuring the Gaither Vocal Band GIVE THE WORLD A SMILE SONG LIST: THERE IS POWER IN THE BLOOD featuring Angela Primm GIVE THE WORLD A SMILE
I JUST CAN’T MAKE IT BY MYSELF featuring The Nelons CHILD OF THE KING featuring Gene McDonald, Mike Allen I’VE GOT THAT OLD TIME RELIGION IN MY HEART featuring Stan Whitmire CLOSE TO THEE featuring Reggie & Ladye Love Smith, Joyce Martin Sanders, Angela Primm, Amber Nelon Thompson, Wesley Pritchard WORKING ON A BUILDING featuring the Gaither Vocal Band HAPPY RHYTHM featuring the Gaither Vocal Band, Colet Selwyn THIS OLE HOUSE featuring Colet Selwyn LOVE AT HOME featuring Kim Hopper, Joyce Martin Sanders, Shane McConnell MARY DON’T YOU WEEP featuring the Martin Family Circus IN THE SWEET FOREVER LEAVE IT THERE featuring Bradley Walker I SEE A CRIMSON STREAM featuring the Jim Brady Trio YOURS AMEN featuring The Isaacs REVIVE US AGAIN featuring Buddy Greene, Reggie Smith, Charlotte Ritchie ON THE BANKS OF THE PROMISED LAND featuring Karen Peck & New River HOW BEAUTIFUL HEAVEN MUST BE featuring Mitchel Jon LOVE IS THE GOLDEN RULE featuring Gordon Mote DOES JESUS CARE featuring Ben Isaacs, Mark Lowry, Bill
Gaither, Russ Taff, Jim Murray, Buddy Mullins SINNER SAVED BY GRACE featuring Gene McDonald, Adam Crabb PASS ME NOT, O GENTLE SAVIOR featuring Lynda Randle, Michael English Review by Justin Gilmore: It has been a few years since Bill and Gloria Gaither have gathered the Homecoming crew together at their hometown studio. Now, they are back with two brand new live DVDs featuring nearly 125 of Southern Gospel music’s most beloved Homecoming Family artists. These exciting new videos produced by Bill Gaither and Barry Jennings are welcome additions to the incredible Homecoming series. Audiences are sure to love performances by the award-winning Oak Ridge Boys, the Gatlin Brothers, Jeff and Sheri Easter, the Booth Brothers, Russ Taff, Goodman Revival, the Gaither Vocal Band, Mark Lowry, Lynda Randle, David Phelps, The Isaacs, and Ernie Haase and Signature Sound, just to name a few.
I personally loved the blend of the old and new on these videos. Gaither successfully recaptured the magic of the original videos featuring legendary artists such as JD Sumner, George Younce, Glen Payne, Vestal Goodman, and Jake Hess. Not only do these videos honor the past, they also include some of Southern Gospel’s finest new artists
including the Jim Brady Trio, Martin Family Circus, Bradley Walker, and many others.
Each featured artist gave great performances with several that stand out: “Does Jesus Care,” was incredibly moving and nearly brought me to tears seeing Jim Murray break down over the loss of his wife. On a lighter note, the Goodman Revival’s electrifying performance of “The Sweetest Song I Know,” had me clapping and singing along! Other great performances included: “On The Banks Of The Promised Land,” by Karen Peck and New River, “Yours, Amen” by the Isaacs, “Sinner Saved By Grace,” featuring Gene McDonald and Mike Allen, and “But God,” by Larnelle Harris.
However, my favorite performance on these videos was Ernie Haase and Signature Sound’s powerful take on Bill Gaither’s, “I Do Believe.” Baritone Dustin Doyle nailed his verses in his first Gaither Homecoming video appearance. This was EHSS bass singer Paul Harkey’s first Gaither video as well. It was great seeing the group back with the Homecoming friends. Overall, these videos take fans back to the place where it all began over 20 years ago. They capture the magic of the early videos while showcasing the fresh, and exciting new artists of today. Memorable performances, moving testimonials, and timeless songs. Both videos get a five out of five from me. Go out and get these ASAP! Visit www.gaithermusic.com for more information.
***Review Copies Provided by Gaither Music Group**** Pictures courtesy of Gaither.com and Craig Harris
Day By Day Guard Your Heart By Selena Day Proverbs 4:23(NLT) “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” Well, over the past few months the divisiveness in our country seems to have boiled over, and it finds itself erupting onto the pages of Facebook as well as many other social media outlets. I am the youngest of three. My birthday is in October, but my parents decided not to hold me back a year in school, so during my school career I was always the youngest. Without realizing it, this set a distorted thought pattern in my life, that just because older individuals surrounded me they must be more knowledgeable than myself. I married my husband, who is eight years older, and began a journey with him in a career that I knew absolutely nothing about. Which only reinforced this image I carried of myself, that my knowledge and wisdom was limited.
whole. When I became a parent I realized the truth behind the old adage: “This is going to hurt me more than it’s going to hurt you.” Another lesson was in Negril, Jamaica, on a break from a mission’s trip we were working on. A friend of ours took us to Ricks Café, a place famous for cliff diving. I am afraid of heights and I told everyone that there was no way they were getting me to jump off those cliffs. That was until I got there. Once there, a peace came over me and I knew that it was something I had to do. After I jumped all the men in our group jumped. One of the guys with us had been coming to Negril for over 16 years and never braved it until that day. Sometimes leadership is about being willing to go first; others see that it can be done and they follow suit.
So imagine my surprise when I felt God slowly and gently calling me to be a leader. He set the course with a few life lessons that began unraveling how I viewed myself as a leader, and showing me my leadership skills and what it meant to lead.
During this season of division in our country, we as believers must become leaders in bringing unity back out our nation.
My first and greatest lesson was in motherhood. From the very beginning, you can either make decisions based on what is easiest on you and what hurts you the least or you make decisions that are for the good of the
I was so moved by a number of believers who prayed and fasted for the elections. Now
that the elections are over we must not stop. We must press even harder into prayer and fasting, interceding for our country that it will find it’s way back toward God and His goodness in our life. As leaders, we must be first in offering the olive branch to those who disagree with our position. We must be the first to show kindness. We must be the first to show love. There are so many believers out there ready to throw the first stone, but where are those who will get down in the dirt with the unlovable and tell the accusers: “He who is without sin, cast the first stone.” Jesus set the example for us to follow. Over and over Jesus would tell His disciples, “I only do and say what I see or hear from my Father.” It is so important for us to follow this example and not confuse our passion for the Father’s passion. What do you think the Father’s passion is? Stop for a moment and really think about this. What does He say?
Is His passion full of love, kindness, generosity, goodness, joy, peace, faithfulness, gentleness, patience, and self-control?
Whenever you encounter division in life, ask yourself if you are displaying our Father’s nature. If not, keep silent, because silence cannot be misquoted. Selena Day is a motivational speaker and is available to speak at your conference or event. You may contact her at selenaday@me.com http://www.queenliving. org http://facebook.com/queenismsbyselenaday. Photographs courtesy of Selena Day.
K O , a s l Tu
Join Ken and Jean Grady and their guests for southern gospel news, concert updates and much more on the internet at www.gospelmusictoday.com
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John Bowman
Catching Up with
ByRobert York
Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver was the first full time group he played with, joining them in 1991. Doyle gave him a quick lesson in showing up and being ready to play at the highest level possible. Doyle, being a perfectionist, expected the guys to perform his material as close to flawless as they could. John notes, “I can never thank him enough for giving me the opportunity to play After John left the Isaacs, he was a founder and member in the group.” of The Boxcars in 2010. During the time he was with them, the group received nominations for both Grammy One of Doyle’s comments was, “Keep your eyes on the ball and not the ladies.” A certain story about John and and Dove awards. He moved on from the group after five years to pursue a solo career that also allows him a lady has been told many times by Doyle Lawson, but I wanted to hear it from the person involved so I asked opportunities to preach. John to tell us about the moment that would change his life forever. John was raised in a musical family where both grandfathers and grandmothers and cousins played music. “Quicksilver and the Isaacs were playing in Landisville, His dad taught John to play the guitar when he was about 10. John says, “I played my dad’s guitar when he Penn., at a Mennonite campground. Jim Mills (Doyle’s was at work. But the first instrument I really played in a banjo player) had told me how great the Isaacs were and they had two beautiful daughters! We had planned band was the upright bass. I play other instruments but guitar is my main instrument. I can play banjo, fiddle, to be at the campground early to play softball with The Primitives and The Isaacs. We were late and missed the and mandolin as well.” game. John Bowman is a singer, songwriter and musician. John has played and sung with some of the top names in Bluegrass and Gospel music. He is probably most well-known for being a part of the Isaacs for 13 years. John has also played with with Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver and Alison Krauss and Union Station.
on stage with the Isaacs and play a song with them. John has also released a tribute album to his fatherin-law, Joe Isaacs, which was nominated for a Dove award. During John’s tenure with the Isaacs, he had the opportunity to be on tour with Bill Gaither. Kevin Williams had taken some time off from the Vocal Band to do some things in Nashville and Bill asked if he would do the guitar parts during the Homecomings. He said, “It was a thrill to get to play behind some of the finest groups in Southern Gospel. It has also been a real privilege to be included on many of the videos as well.” “Doyle and I decided to get our gloves and throw the ball around before the concert. A beautiful lady came up and was talking to Jim, and my jaw literally dropped when I saw her. It was Becky [Isaacs]. At that very moment, Doyle threw the ball and hit me in the side of the head. I haven’t been right since!”
It wasn’t only the baseball that knocked John for a loop that day. That first sight eventually brought about the marriage of John Bowman and Becky Isaacs. Soon after, John joined the Isaacs and was with them for 13 years. He said, “We had a lot of great times and sorrowful times as a family. We suffered a lot of heartache, but at the same time saw God move in miraculous ways. They are some of the finest people and singers I’ve ever come in contact with. I admire and love them all very much.” Recently in Canton, GA, John was able to jump
A lot is going on in John’s life both professionally and personally. He has quite a few hobbies that he keeps up with. His dad purchased a new ‘68 Mustang which he gave to John when he turned 16. He has restored it twice since then and it still runs, drives and looks great. In addition he has a baseball/football card collection he started when he was six, with about 50,000 cards. Tim
Moxley, a promoter, notes that John was an avid firearm man and that he knows everything there is to know about any firearm. John and Becky have two children, Levi and Jakobi. Levi travels and sings with the Isaacs, and is following in his father’s footsteps as a preacher. John was 20 years old when he was saved and began to preach in 1997. In 2014, he started evangelizing and preaching on his own. He is available to sing and preach anywhere the Lord leads and calls him to minister. His newest
CD that came out December, 2015, is entitled Beautiful Ashes and on the Mountain Home Label. The current single has been in the Gospel music national charts and is titled “The Reach of His Hand,� written by Sonya Yeary and Tim Surrett.
John Bowman has played and sung with many of the best artists, but the winding road that led through the good and bad times has made him the artist that he is today and provided him with a platform that he can now stand on to sing and preach the good news to anyone who will listen. Photographs courtesy of Robert York.
1. You Ain’t Looking Hard Enough - Austin Zimmer 2. God’s Not Me - Bryan Carroll 3. Thank God I Can Still Thank God - Mitch Pierson 4. Beautiful Messes - Hillary Scott 5. Days Like That – Kevin Woody 6. Rise and Shine - Brooks Crossing 7. Hello Daddy - Shellem Cline 8. Drinking and Praying - Erica Sunshine Lee 9. Lay it Down - Branded 10. If This is All There Is - Arkin Terrell 11. Rest - Peter Christie 12. I See The Lord - Sherry Damron 13. Why Didn’t I - Chelley Odle 14. Bible and a Gun - Rosehill 15. Like Every Day’s a Sunday - Shenandoah 16. Walking Miracle - ReJeana Leeth 17. The Creek - The Reed Brothers 18. Where You Could Be - Debbie Seagraves 19. The Church Pew - Cliff Waddell 20. Still Standing - Jonathan Dale 21. My Favorite Singer - Kenny Gardner 22. Get Saved - McKay Project 23. Where Do You Want Me To Be - James Gee 24. Father I Praise You - Greg McDougal 25. He’s Coming Back - Debbie Bennett
26. It’s Time - Trevor Bohannon 27. The Reason - Jordan’s Crossing 28. Never Let Me Down - The Arenos 29. Greatest Love - The Tacketts 30. He Never Changes - Taylon Hope 31. Follow Your Heart Home - Brent Harrison 32. What’s a Valley - Cali Rose 33. Living Right - Tony Bates 34. Forgive Me - Matthew Huff 35. Those Two Shoes - Appointed 2 36. Help Me - Gene Watson 37. He Was Standing - Wade Phillips 38. Outskirts of Heaven - Craig Campbell 39. Trophy of Grace - Mike Manuel 40. On the Sunny Banks - Chris Golden
By Lorraine Walker In the heart of the Ozark mountains you will find the headquarters of an organization that has found its strength from the music and faith of the people in the midwest. The International Country Gospel Music Association, or ICGMA, is based in Missouri and offers its annual convention and awards program in the summer. From July 27 through 29, Christian Country artists and fans will gather to sing the Gospel with a twang. Award-winning Country Gospel artist, Chuck Day, talked to SGNScoops about the association. “Founded in 1956, this is the 61st year of existence for the ICGMA, making it the oldest Country Gospel Music Organization in America,” says Day. “Throughout these many years, artist, fans, and industry alike have found the ICGMA a wonderful place of fellowship, friendship, and ministry.” Day will be one of many who will make the trip to Missouri in July. “The ICGMA provides a three-day experience for artists at the West Plains Civic Center in West Plains, MO. There are showcases both morning and afternoon where artists get a chance to show their talent and ministry.” Day adds, “There is a big concert every night with tons of great talent and standing room only crowds of the people from the area that have made the ICGMA weekend a yearly
tradition. There is an exhibit hall where you will find booths from your favorite artists as well as industry exhibits. While at the ICGMA weekend artist and fans alike find a great opportunity to fellowship, sing and really get to know one another.” Fans will want to journey to West Plains to see many of their favorite artists. Members of the ICGMA include David Patillo, Mike Manuel, James Payne, Tommy Brandt, Chuck Day, Walt Mills and more. There is also an awards program where voting members nominate their top 10 favorites, which are then narrowed down to five, and finally to the winner of each category announced during the convention. The prestigious Gold Cross award is also presented during this special ceremony. Day says that fans will enjoy their visit to the ICGMA convention “It is very similar to the NQC [National Quartet Convention] in its form. Of course our crowds are a bit smaller. Fans get a chance to hear and interact with the artists and there is always some kind of jam session going on in the exhibit hall. Some of the best memories are made there.” Chuck Day is an award-winning Christian Country artist who travels the world with his wife Selena, sharing Jesus with whoever he meets. Co-writer of the familiar song, “Midnight Cry,” one might think that this talented singer/ songwriter would find a more comfortable niche elsewhere in Christian music. However, Day says he has a purpose for
ers artists in the industry who share their faith through their music. Many will be reunited with old friends, while establishing new relationships that prove to be time treasures for years to come.” performing Christian Country, one that is echoed by many who are a part of ICGMA. “My heritage is in Southern Gospel Music.” says Day. “I started at 10 years old singing on concert stages all over the south with my family group, The Day Family. My mom, Grace Day, was the local promoter for The Old Gospel Man, J.G. Whitfield. We opened every Gospel show at the Municipal Auditorium in Valdosta, GA. We opened for groups like The Goodmans, Hinsons, Florida Boys, Oak Ridge Boys, The Speers, Sego Brothers and Naomi, and the list goes on. “The majority of my music is enjoyed by most everyone. The Christian Country genre has been a great platform for me to spread the Gospel in venues and to crowds who might not attend one of my concerts in a church or other venue. I am so happy to see the country flavor spreading through all the genres.” ICGMA president, Dan Duncan, noted this in an earlier interview: “Country Gospel/Christian Country music artists interested in joining will find opportunities to network with songwriters, producers, publishers, promoters, and with oth-
For additional information about the International Country Gospel Music Association, its history, membership information, or this year’s convention, visit the website at www. icgma.org, or contact: I.C.G.M.A., Dan Duncan, President, P.O. Box 1570, West Plains, Missouri 65775. Or phone 417372-1129. Pictures courtesy of Chuck Day and the ICGMA.
DJ Spotlight
Roger Harris By Vonda Easley
The DJ Spotlight today is on Roger Harris, DJ for WPIL FM in Heflin, Alabama. Roger is the host of a new show every week that fans of Bluegrass will particularly enjoy. WPIL is happy to present this great addition to their programming. Without any ado, let us get to know Roger Harris! Vonda: Roger, tell us about the new Pickin’ and Grinnin’ Show at WPIL? Roger: I have been a Bluegrass Gospel fan since the first time I heard Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs sing Bill Monroe’s “Working on a Building.” This must have been back in the ‘60’s when they had a TV show. There is something about that banjo and mandolin that makes your knee start jumping as soon as you hear it warming up and that is what this new show on WPIL is all about. Classic Country Gospel and classic Bluegrass Gospel. Where I’m from in East Alabama it’s big Bluegrass country and folks there are hungry for this music. So I guess you can tell that this is my favorite genre of music.
Vonda: Who are your favorite artists? Roger: I guess the favorite of my favorite artists would have to be the Queen of Bluegrass, Rhonda Vincent. She could sing “I’m a Little Teacup” and I would drop everything and just listen. What a voice! But there are also Dailey and Vincent, Alison Krauss and Ricky Skaggs. Vonda: If you could attend any event in the world, where would you go? Roger: I would go to Jerusalem around 2000 years ago to witness the greatest event in the history of mankind: The birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Didn’t even have to think about that one. Vonda: Will you tell us about your family? Roger: I could talk about my family all day. I have been married to my wife for 49 years and every day of it has been happy. I have two sons, two wonderful daughtersin-law, seven wonderful grandkids and each of them blesses my heart every day. I am most fortunate man in that both my sons are college graduates. One granddaughter has completed college and one granddaughter and two grandsons will graduate this year. Vonda: Can you tell us how to listen to your show and the times of airplay? Roger: The show will be a live broadcast on Tuesdays at noon CST and will be replayed on Thursdays at 5:00pm CST. It will feature Classic Country and Bluegrass Gospel with some Classic Southern Gospel thrown in on occasion, and special guests from time to time. If his schedule will allow, our first guest will be Ryan Robertson, whose group [The Carter-Robertson Band] recently had a number-one hit. If any readers
would like to make a song suggestion they can contact WPIL. Fans of Roger Harris and Pickin’ and Grinnin’ can contact WPIL through the mail, phone and fax numbers on their website https://www.wpilfm.com. Those who wish to listen through the web can click on http://wpilfm. streamon.fm.
Do you have a favorite DJ that you would like to know more about? Please contact the DJ Spotlight through Vonda Easley at vonda@sgnscoops.com. Photographs courtesy of Roger Harris.
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As the weather gets warmer, it is time to start making your vacation plans for 2017! Make sure to include Vernon, Alabama, as your vacation destination on the weekend of September 8th and 9th. Christian Country and Southern Gospel music will be the music of choice at the Vernon City Auditorium, presented by artists from across the country who will be serving it up in large doses to eager fans enjoying two great nights of free music. Vernon Alabama’s Gospel Music Weekend 2017 will feature many of the artists that participated last year as well as new additions to the lineup. Be sure to stay tuned to this feature in next month’s issue to find out more. Also visit our home on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/macnightofworship/ Songwriting Seminar on Saturday Morning A very special guest this year will be award-winning songwriter, singer, and evangelist, Gerald Crabb. Gerald will be conducting a songwriting seminar on Saturday morning and will be in concert on Saturday night. “We are excited
that Gerald is going to be a part of our event this year. So many people love his music and his energy for God. We look forward to an awesome time in Vernon,” said Dennis McKay of M.A.C. Records. 2017 M.A.C. Records Gospel Music Talent Search on Saturday Afternoon The 2017 Talent Search will be held on Saturday afternoon for those interested in the opportunity to win a recording package at Studio 115A, national radio promotion with Hey Y’all Media, and national advertising with SGN Scoops Magazine. The winner of the talent search will be announced at Saturday night’s concert.
Last year, the community of Vernon welcomed the artists and visitors to their town with open arms and the support was overwhelming. Todd’s Smokehouse stayed open late both evenings and everyone was able to enjoy some great food after the concerts. Some of the artists had the pleasant experience of home away from home lodging at the Twin Gables Inn bed and breakfast. A few of the artists such as Ava Kasich had a fun time co-hosting the Saturday morning edition of Party Line with Mayor Glenn Crawford. Vernon, Alabama was definitely the place to be.
To keep up with the latest news about the event, check out the Facebook page for Vernon Alabama’s Gospel Music Weekend at https://www.facebook.com/macnightofworship. This event is sponsored by M.A.C. Records and SGN Scoops Magazine. For more information about participating in the event, email info@macrecords.net or contact Dennis McKay at 662-889-2829. Photographs courtesy of Gerald Crabb, M.A.C. Records, SJH Photography and Mary K Reed.
The Chandlers Living a Life of Surrender The Chandlers are one of the up-and-coming family groups in Southern Gospel music. In the last two years alone they have accomplished great things. In 2015, they were a NQC showcase winner. In 2016, during the Diamond Awards, they received the Sunrise Award. They also reached the Top 80 Songs list for The Singing News chart in 2016. To follow along with these accomplishments, they have also had the honor of singing at NQC and Dollywood, and have even begun their own television show titled, “It’s Your Time, with the Chandlers.” Their group consists of Tim Chandler, and his wife Lana, and their two daughters, Tiffany and Lyndsey. While awards and chart hitting is a dream of many Southern Gospel artists, one major accomplishment the Chandlers have been proud of this year, is a type of ceremony they have included in their scheduled performances. They label this special time as “The Dump.” The Dump is much like an altar call but is so personal
By Sarah Murray and life altering. This is a time where anyone can come to the altar and hold their burdens, insecurities, fears, and their failures in their hands. Tim will pray a special prayer asking God for deliverance. As he prays, he asks that God will take these specific requests and remove them so the person holding them can move past them and further their walk with Christ and no longer be pinned down by these setbacks. As he finishes his prayer, he then counts to three. At the count, everyone then turns their hands and dumps their specific concerns at the altar to be left and not picked up again. This ceremony was created when Lana Chandler herself was burdened when a loving family member walked out of her life. Lana said she was broken and dealt with emotional stress for 11 months. During this trying time, Lana said she felt like she was having a hard time trying to minister to people, when she was struggling herself. It was then she realized she was singing to herself and it
He delivers a message that describes the phrase, “God won’t give you more than you can handle,” as being misunderstood. In fact, this verse reads: “that ye may be able to bear it.” This is where Tim eludes that God will never leave or forsake us, but while we will face troubles, we have to find a way of escape. God’s plan is not for us to stay in that trying time. They also include one of their songs called, “My Last Tear.”
was time to practice what she preached. Lana describes this moment and the days that were to come as, “worshipping her way to victory.”
This part of the service has truly proven to be remarkable to the Chandlers. Lana recalls one instance where a woman came to the altar, was prayed over, and dumped her burdens. Lana says she saw the whole demeanor of the woman’s face and countenance changing, and she realized this was truly helping others find deliverance. In one recent service, 12 people were standing at
In Lana’s own words: “In order to have a burning testimony, ministry, etc., you have to go through the fire.” As Lana dealt with the hurt and burdens from this trial in her life and her family, she focused on her own walk with God and began testifying of how God had delivered her and how she didn’t have to carry this burden anymore. Tim and Lana both agreed, that although it is very easy to question God, repentance must come first. “In order for God to hear us, we need to make sure we are where we need to be with God,” Tim said. As the trial seemed to diminish, Tim and Lana utilized this trial and used what God had done for them, to help others find their own deliverance. By creating this dump ceremony in their performances, they started to see change in people and saw God move each time. Tim preaches using the scripture 1 Corinthians 10:13.
the altar ready to dump their burdens. Lana mentioned that we are all God’s clay and each time someone finds hope in this part of the service, it’s like God putting the clay back on the wheel and saying, “You aren’t going to be that anymore, however I’m going to use you to be something else.” Since the Chandlers have agreed to make this a part of their service when they feel led and when the Holy Spirit moves, God has also moved for them. The family member in Lana’s life wrote her a letter of apology which began the healing process for Lana. However, the biggest personal move through Christ for Lana was the humbling moment of realizing that because she went through this trial and found deliverance, others will be able to experience the same peace she found in Christ. Lana tells their audiences that, “Life doesn’t stop for our trials and tribulations.” She encourages others to find
Serbia in 2018. They just released their second single, “Somebody Give Him Some Praise,” from their latest CD. With all the excitement and new beginnings ahead, when you meet a family like the Chandlers you realize their sole purpose in their ministry can be summed up in one word: Jesus. Just as their most requested song is titled, “He Will Come Through,” that is the message behind their music, the purpose behind their special ceremony, and the depiction of who the Chandlers are. A message to everyone that you’ve not gone too far for Jesus, because once you give Him your burdens, He will come through for you. Photographs courtesy of The Chandlers and Meagan Pledger. their hope and rest in Jesus and to give Him their burdens, just like she did. The Chandlers are still praying for God’s plan and will in their ministry as they continue to travel. They have traveled overseas, to Canada, and all over the United States. They are only a few states shy of covering all 50 states in the U.S. They are even scheduled to sing in
By Lorraine Walker November is getting closer and with it, the Creekside Gospel Music Convention. We hope you’ve already made your plans to join us, but if not, do it today. Tickets are free but must be reserved. It all happens in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, on October 30th through November 2nd, at the Smoky Mountain Convention Center. http://www.creeksidegospelmusicconvention. com/ 2017 Diamond Award Nominations The 2017 Diamond Award Nominations are open on the SGNScoops website. Everyone is invited to the website to enter the Nominations area and list their top 10 favorite picks for each Diamond Award category. SGNScoops, host of the Diamond Awards, is pleased to announce that the 2017 Diamond Awards will be held on October 31, 2017 during the Creekside Gospel Music Convention in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Guest hosts will be Dr. Jerry and Jan Goff. Many vocal per-
formances and surprise guests will be included in the gala evening. Put it on your calendar today! The Diamond Awards are completely voter-driven, starting with nominations, from which the Top Ten lists are posted, allowing voters to select their three favorites in each category. That will bring us to the Top Five lists, allowing voters to select their three choices to bring us one winner of the 2017 Diamond Award in each category. Artists and industry personnel are also invited to vote and to encourage their friends and fans to vote as well! http://www.sgnscoops.com/2017-diamondawards/ VIP Bracelet We want you to be a VIP! For only $25, a VIP bracelet will be your entry into the preferred seating at each event plus other special gifts and select backstage happenings. Purchase your VIP bracelet today from Vonda Easley at 256-310-7892 or by email at vonda@ sgnscoops.com. Honors Night One of the special events during the Convention will be the Creekside Honors on Monday, October 30th, in the evening. Each year, we honor someone special, someone who has made the Gospel Music World just a little nicer. From Lou Hildreth to Little Willie Wynn to Archie Watkins, each year has been a wonderful celebration of music and stories. Be sure to join us this October and stay tuned to this column to find out who is
the Honored Guest this year. Who would you like to see honored for their contribution to Gospel music? Email Rob at rob@sgnscoops.com
Other Events Last year we introduced an open-air showcase to begin the week, with a free breakfast for veterans, talent contest and hotdog roast. Other special events at the Convention include daytime showcases, the Creekside Classic golf tournament, breakfast with a special guest, afternoon jam sessions, midnight prayer and much more. Keep watching for more exciting announcements. Don’t miss four days of great Gospel music, fellowship and fun. Tickets must be reserved here: https:// www.facebook.com/Creeksidegospelmusicconvention. Contact Salina Clay for hotel reservations at hotels@ sgnscoops.com or call her at 256-239-7716.
Exhibit Hall If you like to hang out with your favorite artists, talking to them and getting to know them in a more personal way, Creekside is your place to be. The Exhibit Hall is filled with artist booths and the singers are waiting to chat with you. The Hall will be open every day and is part of your free admission to Creekside.
Final Notes Creekside Gospel Music Convention would like to hear from you! Tell us what you want to see and hear in November. Creekside also needs your help. If you would like to volunteer through various promotional activities throughout the year, or with onsite tasks during the convention, please email Rob at rob@sgnscoops.com. For more information, latest news and artists scheduled to appear, visit the Creekside page on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/Creeksidegospelmusicconvention . Photographs courtesy of Robert York, Michelle Drummond, Meagan Pledger, and Creekside Gospel Music Convention.
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The Editor’s Last Word By Lorraine Walker
As we head into March and the weather starts to feel like Spring, our thoughts turn to regeneration and the resurrection. April is coming fast, but March’s days are the time when many prepare their hearts and minds for the Easter season. Some will reread the gospels and some will pray and fast. Still others look to putting aside things which may take up their time or attention, realizing afresh what Jesus put aside to walk this earth and die for us. It doesn’t seem like much to fast from junk food or screen time when we think of all He did. But this token of remembrance helps to keep our eyes on the reason for this season. As Tony Campolo would say, “It’s Friday...but Sunday’s comin’!” We are so glad you have given of your time to read our magazine this month and we hope you have enjoyed the various features, from artist interviews to event updates to monthly columns by our devotional writers. It was a pleasure to feature the Whisnants on the cover, some of the sweetest people in the industry. It was great to have pictures of Austin and Ethan as well, the “Whis’ Kids!” For those of you taking notes, that phrase was coined by staff writer, Craig Harris. Family harmony has once more filled our pages with highlights of Jordan LeFevre, John Bowman and The Chandlers. We hope you enjoyed the look back at Heavenbound and catching up with 2nd Generation. Justin Gilmore’s DVD reviews on the new Gaither
videos were a nice addition to our regular CD reviews by Randall Hamm, our resident D.J. and song expert. Special thanks to Chuck Day for filling us in on the upcoming ICGMA weekend as well. This issue was difficult for me to work through and I apologize for the delay as we didn’t make it to publication for the first of the month. Health issues arose which made a usually enjoyable task somewhat demanding. As I struggled to complete my daily routine, I had to remind myself again about the season of lent and how much Jesus has done for me. All He asks in return is to do what is before us as if unto Him. As I shifted my focus from myself to my Lord, I had to admit that my concerns seemed petty. Remembering His death on the cross makes my health issues seem minute. Remembering His resurrection reminds me that one day, perhaps soon, I will have a new body when He calls us home. It’s amazing how a little perspective changes things, isn’t it? My prayer for you this season is that you would look afresh into the face of Jesus as He continues to ask you to follow Him on a daily basis, in every particular of life, regardless of how big or small. Are you willing to let His light shine on every area of every day, every room of your heart, every corner of your mind? Let’s bring it all before Him in readiness to rejoice in the new life this season brings. It’s Friday. But Sunday IS coming.
Contributors SGN SCOOPS
Rob Patz is the President and CEO of Coastal Media Group. Rob has an 18 year history in radio hosting the nationally syndicated radio show, “The Southern Styles Show” since its beginning in 1993. Rob is also the owner of the internet’s #1 Southern Gospel station, SGMRadio.com. In 2009, Rob Patz acquired SGNScoops.com, including the all- digital Scoops Magazine and the Diamond Awards. Rob has taken part in several Christian television projects working in front of the camera and also has helped create several syndicated television programs as well. Rob does voice work for various outlets including fortune 500 companies as well as emceeing concerts and special events. Email Rob at rob@sgnscoops. com. Stephanie Kelley is a public speaker and owner of QueenO-Q, a blog featuring coupon match-ups, freebies, samples and information on frugal living. She is married, has three children and lives in Washington State. Queenoq.blogspot.com
Canadian-born Lorraine Walker has a love for Jesus Christ, music and writing. The combination of these passions has produced artist features and monthly columns for Southern Gospel publications including SGM Radio website and SGN Scoops Digital magazine. Lorraine desires that the power of the written word will glorify her Lord and bring readers closer to the love, peace and majesty of the Almighty. Email Lorraine at lorraine@sgnscoops.com
Jennifer Campbell is a singer, songwriter, musician, and middle school English teacher from McAlpin, Florida. Along with her passion for teaching, she has an even greater passion for ministering to others, sharing her testimony of how she was born lifeless and how Jesus raised her up to live for Him. Jennifer is a member of the Florida Worship Choir and Orchestra and has performed with them at Brooklyn Tabernacle, Carnegie Hall, Central Park, and Times Square. She serves as a group leader for Women of Faith, designs websites, and writes an inspirational blog at http://jennifercampbell.net/blog.htm and a food and travel blog at http://jennifersjourneys.net Learn more about Jennifer at http://jennifercampbell.net and www.christwillreturn.org. Joan Walker grew up with music in the house and first heard Southern Gospel in her early teens. With almost a quirky (some may say ‘weird’) need to make sure words are spelled correctly and the apostrophes are in the right place, she enjoys proofreading the articles for the SGN Scoops magazine each month...and looks beyond the letters and commas to the wonderful words each writer has written. Joan counts it as a blessing in her life to be part of SGN Scoops! Justin Gilmore, 22, a resident of San Diego, California, graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University with a B.A. in History in June of 2014. Passionate about Southern Gospel music and its history, he decided to venture into the blog world in January starting Southern Gospel Spotlight in order to share his love of this great style of music.
Contributors SGN SCOOPS
Dusty Wells is a man of many talents and multiple skills, from his speaking engagements across the country, to traveling and encouraging various artists in the Christian music genres. Dusty has a passion that is evident from the moment you meet him. Dusty is a man who remains passionate and secure in the calling and destiny upon his life. He has come to realize the importance of finding purpose and clear direction for not only his life, but also the lives of those he comes in contact with, no matter what stage of life they may be in. Growing up in a very dysfunctional home, surrounded by all types of abuse, Dusty had every excuse to be a failure in life. He grew up on welfare, having to steal his daily necessities of life at times, being surrounded by drugs, alcohol and pornography. He was raised by a mother who was married multiple times, living in a housing project on the wrong side of town. But in the midst of what seemed to be complete devastation, God had different plans of success for Dusty. At the age of 14, a precious couple took time out of their own lives to invest in Dusty…thus leading Him to the Lord. His life is a testimony of God’s relentless love and deliverance, and is one of the most triumphant stories told in modern Christianity. Dusty is confident in the fact that if God can do it for him, He can do it for anyone, no matter the situation. Dusty and his wife of 33 years have four children, and two grandbabies with one more on the way. They make their home in Nashville, Tn. Justin McLeod is the founder of the Justin’s World of Softball website, a site that he has built into one of the premier news outlets in the sport. Justin is a longtime Gospel music fan and enjoys researching the history of the genre, attending concerts, and reviewing recordings whenever possible. The son of a Southern Baptist pastor, he also works for a law firm as a legal secretary and is active in his local church. Justin is a native of Memphis and now resides in Northeast Louisiana.
Pete Schwager is a web developer and graphic designer with a passion for Christ. He was born in Santa Rosa, California and moved to Oregon where he spent most of his life. He now lives in the quiet town of Ringgold, Georgia and enjoys living in the country with his family. You can find him online at http://peteschwager.com
Staci Schwager helps with marketing and communication with her husband’s web design company, Cre8able Media. Together they make a great team! Staci being the “talkative” one, loves being able to communicate one on one with clients and organizing ideas. While Pete on the other hand is diving into the design and coding aspects to make the real masterpiece! Most of Staci’s days are filled with preparing homeschool lessons for her kids, couponing, gardening, tending to her chicken flock and spending as much time on the beautiful, country land God has blessed them with.
My name is Tina Wakefield and I am currently Music Minister for Amazing Grace Worship Center in Alabaster, Al. I have led worship for over 18 years as well as teach adults how to live everyday life in Victory as a Christian. I enjoy playing and singing Gospel Music whenever and wherever I am invited. I currently have three Cd s available on my website at www.tinawakefield.com and just released my first music video with Godsey & Associates called,” The Choice” available on YouTube. I write a lot of the music we sing at church and also record my original songs. My family is very ministry oriented with Pastors, Teachers, Musicians, and Singers. My heart’s desire is to spread the gospel of Christ through any and all open doors that I receive.
Contributors SGN SCOOPS
Robert York- During my childhood days my parents took me to the Atlanta City Auditorium for concerts hosted by Warren Roberts. That was the beginning of my love for Southern Gospel music. After 35 years I retired from USPS, during which time I got married. My wife and I often went to The Joyful Noise for dinner and concerts. Every known name in Gospel Music sang there at one time or another. After I retired, we decided to start promoting concerts. Our goal was not only to promote our concerts, but also to promote any Gospel concerts in our area and attend as many as we possibly could. I came to a crossroads in December 2013 when my wife graduated to heaven, not knowing what to do. After much prayer God led me to continue promoting concerts. Have promoted around 100 concerts and can’t tell you how many I attended. I still enjoy going to concerts and writing a little about the groups. Erin Stevens is a uniquely talented shutterbug, singer, guitar player, writer, blogger, and social networker. She is the owner/operator of Photos For Keeps By Erin. Along with running her own business, she is the official photographer for Abraham Productions (API). You will find her behind the lens at all API events, along with working behind the scenes on their social media. She also travels full-time on the road with her family’s gospel group, The Stevens Family. Photography is her passion and singing for Jesus is her calling. For several years, you have known her as our very own “Younger Perspective” writer. Check out her photography website www. photosforkeepsbyerin.com and her ministry website www. stevensfamilymusic.com. Vonda Easley is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Vonda draws on a vast knowledge of Southern Gospel Music for her expertise in the field. In addition to her many personal friendships within the industry she also hosts a weekly radio show which keeps her in touch with many of Southern Gospel’s leading executives and artists. It also allows her a fresh view of new music and the latest happenings inside the industry. Vonda is also a group owner and manager as well! A self starter Vonda has started and managed several “new” events in Southern as well as “Country Gospel” Music. These events are fast be
coming trend setters within the industry. She is a graduate of The University of Alabama at Birmingham. Vivian is the marketing manager at KKGM in Dallas/Fort Worth Texas, as well as hosting a program on Sundays where she features national, regional as well as local artists. She also brings news of upcoming concert events in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex and surrounding area. Vivian has promoted various artists in this area for over 10 years beginning with Phil Cross and Poet Voices and later Sharron Kay King and Jerry Bennett to name a few. She has spent the past several years promoting Southern Gospel, Inspirational Country Gospel and Bluegrass in this area in order to preserve this part of our heritage. Hello, I’m Randall Hamm, Gospel Program Director of WFLQ French Lick Indiana, host of the Sunday Morning Gospel Show for the past 20 years on WFLQ French Lick Indiana and Singing News Top 10 Small Market DJ for the past three years. I now add something new to my resume! Record Reviewer, ok… CD Reviewer. I’m Old School, having started in the days of LP’s, 45’s and Reel to Reel along with cassettes as the main form of music played. If you’d like to listen to my program, you can visit https:// www.facebook.com/TheSundayMorningGospelShow and listen to archived programs, plus I post various Southern Gospel news updates, uplifting music and Gospel-related items. If you’re in the six-county area around French Lick Indiana, in the heart of Southern Indiana, tune in every Sunday 6:00am-12:00pm and listen to the Gospel Greats with Paul Heil, 6:00am to 8:00am and the Sunday Morning Gospel Show with Randall Hamm 8:00am to 12:00pm.
Contributors SGN SCOOPS
After graduating from Middle Tennessee State University with a Mass Communication degree, Craig Harris has been in the journalism field for more than 15 years, working daily as both a photographer and writer at one of the largest non-daily publications in the state of Tennessee. He has experience in feature writing, news writing, action photography, portrait photography, web-site maintenance and layout. Craig has been a part of numerous awards, both collective and individual honors in the journalism field. He has had articles published in numerous newspapers and magazines on a variety of subjects, most notably in the world of sports. Craig’s Southern Gospel interest dates back for approximately the same time span, having closely followed the industry since the later portion of the 1990s. He also performed for seven years with a local trio prior to joining the SGN Scoops staff. David’s distinctive sound and his ability to blend perfectly with a variety of vocalists has made him a valuable commodity on live events as well as in the studio. His compassionate and gentle spirit makes him more than an artist, it makes him a great friend! David began singing at age 6 with family. In 1990, he filled in for the Speer Family and later that year he became the lead vocalist for The Trailblazers. In 2002, Staton filled the lead position with Priority. While with Priority, the group was the resident gospel group at the Silver Dollar City theme park in Branson, MO and they performed for over one million people in one year. After the group disbanded in 1995, David continued to write for artists in many different genres of music while occasionally performing solo. It was during this time that his song, “Every Knee Shall Bow”, recorded by Dottie Peoples, was nominated for a Grammy Award. His song, “Together We Can” was adopted as the national theme song to bring awareness to violence in schools. The music video (Together We Can) that featured many Atlanta based artists was shown at the 1999 Grammy Awards show, which helped launch the careers of artists like R&B’s Jagged Edge, India Arie, and 4.0. In 2004, David partnered with Mike LeFevre to form The LeFevre Quartet. During the seven years that he was the lead vocalist, the group had many hit songs and won many awards. After leaving the LeFevre
Quartet in 2011, Staton began working on a solo project and also began singing with Palmetto State Quartet. The group appeared on television and toured with country music superstar, Wynonna Judd while Staton was there. Through the years, artists like Gold City, Jeff & Sheri Easter, Kingsmen, Singing Americans, Dixie Melody Boys, Imperials, Dottie Peoples, Ball Brothers, LeFevre Quartet, Palmetto State Quartet, Priority, Trailblazers, The Greenes, Ivan Parker, Brian Free and many more have recorded David’s music. From 2005 to 2013, Staton was the Executive Vice President for Song Garden Music Group in Nashville, TN. In recent years, the National Quartet Convention has asked David to be a part of an industry advisory panel to help artists who need assistance and training. Not only has David made a mark as an artist, he is passing on his talent and knowledge to new artists, influencing and shaping the future of Gospel music. Kelly Nelon Clark is the daughter of Gospel Music icon, the late Rex Nelon. As part of her father’s group, The Nelons, she blazed a musical trail bringing a fresh new sound to the traditional Gospel quartet style. That sound and style influenced a generation of Gospel music performers and can be heard today in the styling of groups like the Martins, Point of Grace, The Crabb Family and more. As The Nelons broke new ground, the Gospel Music industry repeatedly recognized their excellence. The group won four GMA Dove awards as well as multiple awards from readers of Singing News Magazine. Kelly was named female vocalist of the year on four occasions and received favorite alto vocalist award 3 times. At one time, Kelly was the most awarded artists in the history of the Singing News Fan Awards. The music industry at large also recognized The Nelons with 3 Grammy nominations. Today, Kelly currently performs throughout the United States, Canada and Europe with her husband and two daughters as The Nelons. The group is featured in hundreds of churches and concerts each year. The Nelons have been part of Gaither Homecoming concerts sharing their music with thousands of Gospel Music fans in sold-out arenas across the country. For more information, visit http:// www.kellynelon.com/.
Contributors SGN SCOOPS
Marcie Gray was born and raised in sunny California, yet always dreamed of moving to Tennessee. She had planned to move to the south as a young adult and sing with a gospel group, after being inspired to do so by her Great Uncle, Alphus LeFevre. Though it took longer than she had expected, in 2011, her dream of moving east finally came true when her husband, Don, retired from the CHP. They packed up their two youngest daughters, three dogs and two horses and headed east. What a blessing to finally be where the tea is sweet, the Southern Gospel music is plentiful and there’s a Cracker Barrel on every corner! Spend ten minutes with Marcie and you’ll learn that she is rarely lacking for something to say. Her passion for Southern Gospel music, combined with her instinct to be behind the camera, makes journalism a very enjoyable outlet for that “Type A” personality she has been affectionately labeled with by her family and friends. Marcie is a worship leader, vocalist and songwriter. She has directed choirs of all ages and given voice lessons for many years. Her solo CD, “Carry Me Home” was released in September of 2014. Having family in ministry has given Marcie a desire to support those who are on the road sharing the gospel through song. Visit her website at www.graydoveministries.com to learn more!
Lynn Mills is a talented writer who has a passion for music, specifically Gospel music. Lynn authors the site Lynn’s Chronicles where she shares her experiences attending various concert events and what people can expect should they want to attend. Also featured are CD & DVD Reviews, Devotionals, Photos, Video and News tidbits. Keep up with Lynn online at http://lynnschronicles.com or on facebook @ http://.facebook.com/lynns.chronicles
Hi, my name is Dean Adkins and I am honored to be a part of the SGN Scoops family. Perhaps some background information would be beneficial. I am sometimes called “Professor” because I was a Biology professor at Marshall University for 31 years and I retired in 2004. I grew up listening to gospel music (or as it is now termed Southern Gospel Music) and many of my relatives (Adkins, Toney, Booth families) are gospel singers/musicians. I collect records, primarily LPs, and SGM related items. Over the years I have studied the history of this genre. I would like to use these articles to describe events and the mind-set of the 1950s and 60s – sometimes called the Golden Age of Gospel Music.
Nathan Kistler was born on the road and was singing at the age of three years old. He has had the opportunity travel with groups like Southern Gospel’s beloved trio the Nelons, and most recently for almost two years with Americas Favorite family of gospel music The Hoppers. Nathan has had the privilege to be in 49 states and 24 countries singing about the wonderful story of Jesus Christ our Lord. He has also been a part of three crusades on the National Mall in Washington D.C. and while there, he had the privilege of singing in the Pentagon courtyard twice. Through his father’s ministry in Washington, Nathan began his work on the Hill as a ministry partner with different Christian organizations like Faith and Action and more. Nathan is a missionary to Washington and continues to work there during the week while singing Gospel music on the weekends around the country and being an artist in residence at the American Mountain Theater in Elkins, West Virginia.
Contributors SGN SCOOPS
Sheri began singing while traveling with her abundantly talented family, led by her father John LaFontaine, a minister for over 48 years. In 1994 with Grammy nominated singer Jeff Easter producing, she recorded her first solo project, Takin’ My Place. Shortly thereafter, Sheri received a call from the top promoter in southern gospel, Frank Arnold and was asked to join his group, The Arnolds on the road. After several years of traveling Sheri felt the Lord leading her to focus on her solo career and songwriting. In 2004 she signed a songwriting contract with one of the industry’s top recording labels, Daywind Music. Her songs have been recorded by Kim Hopper, Karen Peck, Sue Dodge, Brian Free & Assurance, Misty Freeman, Three Bridges, The Whisnants, The Browns and many more. Paige Givens is a Christ follower, wife, mother of two boys and kindergarten teacher to 18 five-yearolds. She is a writer, reader, singer, studier, and teacher of words. Paige lives in Hayden, Alabama with her husband of 10 years, Chris Givens, and their sons Parker and Peyton. Paige loves to blog about faith, writing, music, and teaching. Her goal is to serve the Lord by inspiring others to be who He has called them to be. You can listen to her music and read her devotionals at www. paigegivens.com.
Jaquita Lindsey holds the alto position for the Southern Gospel group 11th Hour. The group was originally based out of Monroe, LA but recently relocated to Hendersonville, TN. She comes from the small town of Camden, AR. She is also a licensed cosmetologist. In her spare time, she enjoys being crafty and spending time with family and friends. She’s been singing since the age of eight, but realizes that it’s much more than just singing. “Anyone can show off their talent. I’d rather hear someone that shows that they are anointed!” For more information on Jaquita, visit 11thhourgospelgroup.com
Roger Barkley Jr. is an awardwinning Christian artist and musical evangelist. With multiple charting songs reaching to the top 10, his goals remain the same: to win souls for Christ, use Gospel Music of any kind to reach the world with the Good News, seeing lives changed and being an encouragement to the saints. When asked about his ministry, Roger said, “I can remember the first time singing with my dad playing the guitar and standing beside my mom when I was four years old. I have always loved all types of music.” His vision is to lead as many people to Christ through preaching, singing, sharing testimony, comedy, drama and technology as possible. Having been labeled a Christian Entertainer, he believes it is possible to minister in an entertaining way, and in over 35 years of ministry has found that he can utilize all different types of music to let people know the love of Jesus Christ. Currently he is Artist-In-Residence with his wife, Dianna, and daughter, Chelsea, at Leestown Gospel Church in Frankfort, KY, and Redemption Road Community Church in Stamping Ground, KY where he leads worship when not spreading the Gospel across America. Fayth Lore is a young woman from southern Ohio with a love for God and people. Although she enjoys chocolate, oldies music and spending time with friends around the bonfire, her passion is ministry. In January of 2014, after pastoring for 20 years, her family decided to follow God’s call into music evangelism. In September 2015, they launched into full-time ministry. The Lore Family travels the country, spreading the Gospel through songs, sermons and seminars. While Fayth loves to sing, she also has a heart for encouraging young women in Christ. She has spoken at various youth/women’s events, as well as hosted her own blog for young ladies. To see more about The Lore Family, visit their website at www.thelorefamilyministries.com. To learn more about Fayth’s blog, visit www.truepurposegirls. weebly.com.
Contributors SGN SCOOPS
Selena Day is from Atlanta GA. During her twenties she worked in the field of fashion, as both a make-up artist and model. Selena became a Christian in her early 20’s and then quickly met her husband, Chuck Day, who is a songwriter and recording artist. Selena and Chuck have been in the ministry for 26 years raising three daughters and homeschooling them while they traveled together as a family. During this time God taught her how crucial intergenerational ministry is for the furthering of God’s kingdom. Selena travels the world speaking at conferences with the emphasis on empowering a multi-generation of women to rise up and become everything that God has called them to. Encouraging the next generation of the church to break the walls of limitations in their mind and rise to their full potential. Selena and her husband are life coaches for The World Race, which is an extreme missions trip for adults 21 through 35. They travel every two months somewhere around the world to mentor these missionaries. She and Chuck have been pastoring a home-church for 14 years where they have experienced God moving in community and seeing the body of Christ in action through each other. Auke Bijlsma- I was born in Zaandam, The Netherlands on September 21st 1966. I’m Head of Operations for a major airline. My home is in the countryside of Holland where I live with my wife Patty, and our two kids: Jake who’s 16, and Lexi who is 14, and our pack of dogs. My oldest children, son Jesse 23, and daughter Sarah 21, don’t live with me; they are all grown up building their own homes and lives. In my childhood, I went to church with my family, and I fell in love with harmony singing. I sang in choirs, a Southern Gospel Trio, and made a few television appearances with that trio here in The Netherlands. At the moment I am not active in music anymore, but you never know what comes along. In my teens, I started to listen to 50’s Rock and Roll, and of course, Elvis Presley. Through Presley I was introduced to the great Gospel Quartets. I started looking for music by The Imperials, Jordanaires, and J.D.Sumner and the Stamps at first, because these were the quartets that backed Elvis for many years. My first love is Gospel singing, particularly Southern Gospel. I love groups like The Stamps, The Imperials, The
Weatherfords, The Rambos, The Hinsons, The Cathedrals and many more. Besides being a music lover, I love vintage cars, architecture, books, movies and writing. I hold a Masters in Journalism and Communication. I will write articles about anything; music, faith and life in general. Hope you will enjoy the views of an outsider. Thank you SGNScoops for giving me this opportunity. Sarah Murray sings soprano for the Southern Gospel group Bless’d. The group is from Greeneville, Tennessee and has been together for over five years. Sarah was born and raised in Jonesborough, Tennessee, but now resides in Greeneville with her husband, Chase. She has a bachelor’s degree in K-6 Education and a Master’s degree in Human Resources Development. Her daytime job is being the Human Resources Director for a small company in Greeneville, Tennessee. Her passion outside of singing, writing, and crafting, is simply God’s people. “I love the Lord and truly believe my mission in life is to reach his people, and that’s both on and off the stage, behind my desk, and in my community. I just want people to see Jesus in me! I’m so honored to be a part of Bless’d and love our tight knit family group.” For more information on Sarah, visit blessdministries.com Debbie Seagraves is a Gospel music soloist, songwriter and speaker from Hull, Ga. She and her husband, Mike have been married for 21 years and have five grown children, including four sons and one daughter that graduated to Heaven in 2009, as well as nine grandchildren. She loves singing, speaking, and writing her own songs. Debbie is currently working on her third project. All of the songs on this CD will be songs that she has penned. She is an award winning artist, having won Female Vocalist of the Year with Lighthouse Gospel Music Association, and Female Vocalist and Soloist of the year with the GGCBA (Georgia Gospel Country Bluegrass Association) in 2016. She enjoys speaking at Ladies Events, sharing her testimony of how God spared her life from a near fatal
Contributors SGN SCOOPS
motorcycle accident in 2011, how He brought her out of the depths of severe clinical depression, and through the
death of her daughter in 2009. Also, Debbie is an avid Georgia Bulldogs fan and loves to fish, read, and spend time with her children and grandchildren. Debbie says: “No one can come as close as I did to dying and have it not change you. I am forever changed, blessed beyond measure, and just so grateful for every day that the Lord allows me to spend with those I love and to serve Him.� She considers Micah 7:8 her life verse as she says that verse has carried her through some of the darkest times in her life. If you would like to have Debbie at your church or venue, you can reach her through her website: debbieseagravesmusic.com/, on Facebook, or send her an email at: fullyalive1956@att.net.