Reach For the Mark

Like many others I have been watching a lot of the Vancouver Winter Games in the past two weeks. As a Canadian I have cheered on the red and white to many Olympic medals, and watched as the athletes faced great adversity on and off the field to reach their goals.
One of those was Joannie Rochette, the women's figure skating medalist from Quebec. She and her family arrived for the games in Vancouver last weekend. Early Sunday morning her mother passed away in the hospital at age 55. Joannie, her family and most of Canada were in shock.
Joannie proceded to complete and her first performance was beautiful as she skated well and only began to cry at the very end. Her final performance was more of a struggle but Joannie gained the medal podium, receiving a bronze for her courageous skate.
I was chatting recently with an artist about how we face things in life that may keep us from reaching our goal of closer union with Jesus. These things may be really challenging and downright horrible to face, but the Lord has promised to be with us every step of the way. He will not stop at 'burning our barley fields' (read Kings for this story) and will do what it takes to bring health to our souls. Sometimes that means He will allow 'bad things' to happen to 'good people'.
It is said that what doesn't kill us makes us stronger, and the more we realize that in ourselves we can't face the really tough things in life, the more we lean on the strength of God in our weakness. He is our strength and He calls us to keep pressing on, to reach the mark of the higher calling, to gain the crown of life at the end of the race.
Like Joannie, I want to keep pressing on.

Comments? Write me at sgmradio.lorrainewalker@gmail.com
Photo courtesy www.cbc.ca
Caption: Joannie Rochette earned bronze, days after her mother passed away. (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

March SGN Scoops Features Brian Free and Assurance

New Issue Ready for Download March 1/10


It’s already time for the new March issue of SGN Scoops… in which we talk to veteran SG singer Brian Free, young SG veteran Scott Godsey, author and satirist Matthew Paul Turner, and Candy Christmas on her Bridge Ministry.

Be sure to visit SGNScoops.com daily for headlines in Christian music & more. And don’t forget to take your last opportunity to nominate your favorites in Southern & Country gospel music for the Diamond Awards. Last day to nominate is Sunday, February 28 and the place to vote is www.sgnscoops.com

INTEGRITY MUSICS 18 DOVE AWARD NOMINATIONS INCLUDE MULTIPLE NODS FOR KARI JOBE, ISRAEL HOUGHTON AND PAUL BALOCHE

Kari Jobe Nominated as New Artist of the Year While Mary Mary Among Artist of the Year Nominees

MOBILE, Ala. -When nominations were announced last week for the 41st Annual GMA Dove Awards, Integrity Musics signed and distributed artists and songwriters received an impressive 18 nods.

With one of the most successful CDs by a debut artist in recent years and the top-selling new artist album of 2009, Kari Jobe was nominated as New Artist of the Year. The artist/songwriter/worship leader earned a total of three nominations. Her additional nods were for Spanish Language Album for the Spanish version of her debut record and for Special Event Album of the Year for her participation on the Glory Revealed II: The Word of God In Worship.

I am so excited to be up for these nominations! Its a dream come true and such an honor. Im having more fun meeting other artists that Ive looked up to over the years and the newer ones who I am running alongside now in ministry and life. Its so fun, and I cannot wait for April 21st and the Dove Awards show, a joyful Jobe responded after not only receiving the three nominations but also participating in the press conference in Nashville to make the Dove Awards announcement. Before the Dove Awards in April, Jobe will be performing on tour with Desperation Band and leading worship at churches across the country.

“Revelation Song,” which is featured on Jobe’s debut album and was a radio hit for Phillips, Craig & Dean, was nominated for two songwriter awards – Song of the Year and Worship Song of the Year – for Jennie Lee Riddle, a Gateway Create/Integrity Praise Music songwriter

Mary Mary, whose recent album The Sound has won for the sister duo both Stellar Awards and a GRAMMY Award, was honored with their first nomination in the Dove Awards top category Artist of the Year. The sister duo who records on Columbia Records and is distributed by Integrity Music, is currently featured prominently in the 25th anniversary recording of We Are the World, the multi-artist Haiti benefit song and video.

Fresh from his GRAMMY Award win last month, Israel Houghton earned four nominations, including three nominations for songs from his GRAMMY Award-winning album The Power of One. Just Wanna Say was nominated for Urban Recorded Song of the Year while Every Prayer and The Power of One share nominations in the Contemporary Gospel Recorded Song of the Year. Houghton received a fourth nomination for Special Event Album for his contributions to CompassionArt: Creating Freedom From Poverty.

Also nominated for the CompassionArt project was Paul Baloche. Baloche earned a second nomination for Worship Song of the Year for Hosanna.

Hillsongs Brooke Fraser penned a worship song also called Hosanna, and that modern hymn was nominated for Inspirational Song of the Year from Selahs album You Deliver Me. Hillsong was also recognized with a Dove Award nomination for Long Form Video of the Year for Faith + Hope + Love.

Integritys other album nominations include Country music superstar Collin Rayes first solo Dove Award nomination for his TimeLife/Integrity Music CD Never Going Back. Integrity Music Latins Julissa was nominated in the Spanish Language Album category for Adorandote and in the Childrens Music Album category, Shout Praises Kids Today is the Day was recognized. Finally, Integritys Choral division earned a nod for Youth/Childrens Music of the Year for Get To The Manager by Jeff Sandstrom.

(For the second year in a row, fans will be able to cast their votes online for Artist of the Year and New Artist of the Year. Fans can vote for Jobe as New Artist and Mary Mary for Artist starting the first week of March at www.gmclife.com ( http://e2ma.net/go/8026646646/2594624/91758845/23079/goto:http://www.gmclife.com/ ).)

The GMA Dove Awards is Christian/Gospel musics biggest night of the year, where top artists from every style of gospel music come together for a night of music and celebration as the GMA bestows the industry’s highest honor — the Dove Award. The 41st Annual Dove Awards will be held on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at Nashvilles famed Grand Ole Opry House and televised nationwide on gmc (http://www.gmclife.com ( http://e2ma.net/go/8026646646/2594624/91758846/23079/goto:http://www.gmclife.com/ )), Sunday, April 25, 2010 from 8 p.m. – 10 p.m. EST. gmc is the fastest-growing network in television and can be seen in 46 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224

Jym Howe of the Mystery Men Quartet Weds

Nashville, Tennessee, February 25, 2010 --- Jym Howe, of the Mystery Men Quartet, and Christina Dallas Jones (of Orlando, FL) were wed February 19 in Nashville, Tennessee. It was a small ceremony with only a few family members and friends in attendance. The wedding was officiated by Ed Crawford of the Mystery Men Quartet who is an ordained minister.

Jym joined The Mystery Men in September 2008.

His bride, Christina, a successful singer and actress, has performed lead roles in stage musicals in several cities. A few of her favorite roles have included Anna in “The King & I”, Marian in “The Music Man”, and Guenevere in “Camelot.” In addition to stage musicals, Christina was a dancer in “Hannah Montana: The Movie”, and she was cast as Vera Resue in “Billy: The Early Years” (The Early Years of Billy Graham). Her latest performance was with the Nashville Opera at their season Gala. Christina is represented by Sharon Smith Talent (Nashville, TN)

The couple traveled to Orlando Florida for their honeymoon where they spent time with family.

Jym and Christina will reside in White House, Tennessee.

For more information about Jym Howe and The Mystery Men please visit www.TheMysteryMen.com.

Contact:
The Mystery Men
615-758-9003
www.TheMysteryMen.com

STEVE COLBURN LEAVING SHILOH

Southern Gospel group.. Shiloh announced this week that vocalist Steve Colburn is vacating his position with the trio. Colburn has accepted a teaching job in the music department at Navarro College in his hometown of Corsicana, Texas. Steve says: "My family and I are excited about this opportunity, and Susan (wife) and I are looking forward to spending more time visiting our kids in Waco and attending various concerts and events that they are involved in."

In addition to teaching at the college, Colburn says the Lord has also allowed him the opportunity to go back into local church ministry. "Beginning in mid-March, I will be assuming the Worship Pastor position at the First Baptist Church of Blooming Grove, Texas."

Shiloh's Brian White adds: "Steve has been personal friend of mine long before he was ever a member of Shiloh. He has been a great asset to this ministry over the past 4 plus years that we have been blessed to have him, and he will be missed."

News from Miles Pike

Hello Everyone,

We just received word that Miles' first national radio release, "Jesus Savior, Pilot Me" went to the top of the Country Gospel chart! It's #1 in The Christian Voice Magazine for the month of March!

The response to this song has been overwhelming and all glory goes to God for blessing the hearts of you, the listeners. The ad to the left is being run in the March issue of the magazine.

Thanks to Tommy Smith of Canyon Creek Records for his help, to the DJs all over the U.S.A. that are playing it, and listeners for requesting it!

For you DJs and Gospel stations, visit my Radio page that I built just for you. If you would like to see any new features, send me your thoughts. I've been making some personalized liners for several stations lately and would love to do it for you as well.

In the ad that is being featured in The Christian Voice Magazine's March issue, you'll notice that I'll be one of the featured artist at The Country Gospel Music Fanfest in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee! For more information on how to get tickets to this event in the beautiful Smokey Mountains, visit my Event schedule.

Third Annual Homecoming Concert

March is a huge month for us here on "Pike's Peak". We're gearing up for Miles' annual homecoming concert, being held on March 13th @ 6:00pm. Bigger and better than ever, Miles is hosting a great evening of music at The People's Church in Jacksonville, Texas.

Featuring:
Gaither Homecoming Artist, Allison Durham Speer and The Gospel Tones Quartet!

Bring out the whole family for this awesome event. There will be plenty of surprises, hundreds of dollars in giveaways, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Doors open at 5:00pm and come early for the best seats. Call 903-586-8605 for more information. You do not want to miss this night of family entertainment, laughs, worship, and fellowship; so bring a friend!

Can't tell you how exciting the news is and how we are looking forward to the great concerts coming up this year! There are more dates steadily coming in, so if you want to see about booking me at your church or venue, Contact me for info. Thanks again for the #1!

God bless you all for your support,
Miles

Introducing Clothes4Souls!

With your help, Soles4Souls has given away more than 7 million pairs of shoes to people in 125 countries. We could never have done this without your direct involvement.

For years, we have been asked if we would also help donate clothing to people in need, and today, we are proud to announce a new division of our charity: Clothes4Souls.

This new charity channel will help us increase dignity and hope for hurting people through the gift of new clothing. The clothing will come from manufacturers, designers and retailers who would rather make a secured donation than destroy perfectly good merchandise. We can guarantee the clothing will be given away to people in desperate need around the world.

Clothing manufacturers, designers and retailers - it's your chance to change a life!
We will accept any new items that you want to donate... we are a perfect solution to excessive inventory or other problems stock unique to your business. Whether it is new socks or new shirts, we can take your extra inventory and use it to make a real difference in the world.

We will also accept gently worn jeans or coats. Retailers, this is a great opportunity for you to establish a long-lasting connection with current customers, your community at large and the media. Hosting a "Jeans or Coat Trade-in Event" is a great way to draw new customers by offering an incentive for donating jeans or coats.

Yet it's much more than good business -- it's a great way to connect with your own community while making a tangible difference in lives around the around the world.

Learn more about Clothes4Souls by visiting us at www.clothes4souls.org.

Sunday Edition Completes Vocals for Much Anticipated New Release

New Project Is An Intimate Look at the Music of the Church


MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Sunday Edition, one of Nashville’s favorite groups, was recently in the studio finishing up vocals for their much-anticipated recording. Vocals were recorded at Square One Studio in Franklin, Tennessee. The project is being produced by group members Chris and Deon Unthank with additional production by Steve Allen (Vestal Goodman, Legacy Five, Gold City), and all vocals were arranged by Sunday Edition.

The new recording, simply titled Sunday Worship, will be an intimate recording featuring a piano-only backdrop that focuses on the music of the church.

Deon Unthank of Sunday Edition said, “Everywhere we go, people ask us to sing one of two things – either worship songs or hymns. Well, this release focuses on both those aspects of church music.”

“We love all of these songs, and they mean so much to us for different reasons. We have had such a blast singing these songs and seeing how people react to such timeless songs,” mentioned Chris Unthank of Sunday Edition.

Sunday Worship features an equal share of modern and classic worship tunes like “Blessed Assurance,” “Precious Lord,” “The Old Rugged Cross,” “Indescribable,” “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone),” and “Friend of God,” in addition to many more songs.

Sunday Worship is scheduled to be released this Spring through Southern Spin Records.

Sunday Edition recently released their follow-up to the smash-hit “He Bore a Cross.” The new single, titled “Mercy Walks a Road,” was once again produced by Glen Bates and written by Bates and Glen Ashworth. The new song is another special single release with BSA World Records.

The song is currently available for radio stations to download via Chuck Peters’ SG Show Prep and will be released in March through DJ Man Promotions, TS Promotions, and the Rick Hendrix Company.

“He Bore a Cross” became the group’s biggest hit to date earlier this year – giving them their highest charting position on the Singing News Top 80 (#44) and earning the group its first Top 10 New Release. In addition, the song landed Sunday Edition its second #1 hit on the GospelMusicTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart. The song has also charted on all major Southern Gospel charts – SoGospelNews.com Top 40 Weekly Chart, Christian Voice Magazine Top 100 Southern Gospel Chart, and PowerSource Magazine Top 100 Southern Gospel chart.

For more information on Sunday Edition, visit http://www.sundayedition.net .

Facebook members can find Sunday Edition on the popular social networking site at http://www.facebook.com/sundayedition . Sunday Edition’s MySpace can be found at http://myspace.com/thesundayedition/. Fans can visit Sunday Edition’s Shoutlife at http://www.shoutlife.com/sundayedition/.

About Sunday Edition
Sunday Edition was formed back in the early 70’s as an all-male quartet. Now, 30 years later, the group has reformed as the family trio consisting of Deon Unthank, Amy Marie Unthank, and Chris Unthank. The group has a rich sound with a wide variety of influences which range from traditional southern to country and progressive southern to black gospel.

2010 Branson Gospel Music Convention Partners with Local Media For Major Push of Event

BRANSON, Mo. – YMR Music Productions, LLC. Is proud to announce that the 2010 Branson Gospel Music Convention will once again come together with local media to push the event.

Like last year, the Branson GMC will partner with MorningSide and the Jim Bakker Show throughout the week of the event. The Jim Bakker Show will feature many of the performing artists featured at the popular concert event – including names like the Chuck Wagon Gang, HisSong, McMillan & Life, and Hinson Revival.

Kelly Burton, Program Director for the Branson Gospel Music Convention said, “The great people of MorningSide embraced us from our start in 2009. They have a rich legacy of evangelism through many means, including song, and we are grateful for the chance to work with them again.”

In addition, MorningSide and the Branson Gospel Music Convention will be joining together for a special Friday evening concert on June 25, 2010 that will feature Branson’s Marcey Wall, Hinson Revival and additional artists yet to be confirmed. This concert will precede the week-long event in order to give it an extra boost in local awareness.

New this year, the convention will be the sole subject of DJ Karen Berka’s “Branson Radio Live” show at the Little Opry Theatre on Sunday, June 27, 2010. Berka’s weekly Sunday program draws a studio audience of over 200 people and a listening audience via KBFL 99.9 FM and 1060 AM, as well as the Branson Radio Live stream from the show’s website.

“We're so excited to be working with strong local partners who share our enthusiasm to share the Gospel in Branson," mentioned YMR Production’s Rod Burton. "Karen has generously embraced Branson GMC and hers is a natural outlet to showcase Gospel artists who may not have seen the Branson audience before.

Berka will kick off Branson GMC week by featuring interviews with and songs by select artists on her stage at the IMAX Entertainment complex in Branson.

More information on Karen’s show can be found at http://www.bransonradiolive.com .

The 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention is set to take place beginning Monday evening, June 28, through Friday, July 2, 2010 at the Branson Convention Center across from Branson Landing. Concerts will run every night, with matinees offered Tuesday through Friday and will feature over 150 gospel music artists from across the country, as well as exhibitors from the southern and country gospel music industries, Christian radio stations and retailers, record companies, and television broadcast stations.

More information about the Branson Gospel Music Convention can be found at http://www.bransongmc.com or by calling (708) 960-0111.

More information about YMR Music Productions, LLC. can be found at http://www.ymrmp.com or by calling 708-960-0111.

About YMR Music Productions
YMR Music Productions, LLC. is a corporation formed initially for the exclusive purpose of organizing, promoting, and producing the Branson Gospel Music Convention. The production company recently started a series of concerts all around the country that supports local communities and help organization. The first Give the Gospel concert will take place in November 2009.

Oak Ridge Boys to Receive Prestigious SGMG President’s Honor

Nashville, TN – Today, Judy Nelon, Southern Gospel Music Guild (SGMG) President and on behalf of the SGMG Executive Board, announced The Oak Ridge Boys as the 2010 recipients of the SGMG President's Honor during the SGMG Harmony Honors at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel on April 19, 2010. All four members of The Oak Ridge Boys - Duane Allen, Joe Bonsall, William Lee Golden, and Richard Sterban – will be in attendance to accept this honor.

“I fondly recall having the opportunity of presenting a Gospel Music Award to the Oak Ridge Boys in Los Angeles, California in 1973. It just happened to have been Joe Bonsall’s first week with the group. Now, thirty-seven years later, it is such a privilege to present the prestigious SGMG President's Honor to this same amazing group, consisting of Duane Allen, William Lee Golden, Richard Sterban and Joe Bonsall in recognition of their long successful career and significant contributions to the field of southern gospel music,” says Nelon.

The Oak Ridge Boys continue to make new music and entertain millions of fans. With numerous Gold and Platinum albums, they have also enjoyed more than a dozen Number One singles and over 30 Top Ten hits with over 30 million records sold throughout their illustrious 40 year career. With talents that have long been recognized by their peers, this Grammy Award winning group has also received eight Dove Awards, four ACM Awards, four CMA Awards and are members of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. In 2009, the Oak Ridge Boys released their acclaimed new album, The Boys Are Back on SpringHill Records and they continue to perform (with a full touring schedule) live nationwide throughout the year.

Founding member, Duane Allen commented on this great honor, "I have always felt that it was a huge honor to be recognized by your hometown or from one's roots. Gospel music is the foundation of The Oak Ridge Boys' music, Southern style quartet music. I would like to thank all of the former members of The Oak Ridge Boys' organization for laying the groundwork for all of us, and to offer my deepest gratitude to the SGMG for this wonderful honor."

The SGMG Harmony Honors Celebration Concert showcases artists with outstanding accomplishments and award nominations over the past year including Grammy, Dove and Singing News Awards, as well as radio airplay and touring success. The top ten songs of the genre are also recognized. The event will include performances by The Oak Ridge Boys, Jason Crabb, Guy Penrod, Jeff & Sheri Easter, Karen Peck & New River, Bowling Family, Gold City, Perrys, Blackwood Brothers, Tribute Quartet and more.

The SGMG Harmony Honors Celebration Concert will be held on Monday, April 19th at 7:00 pm (CST) in the Gaylord Opryland Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee. The SGMG Celebration Concert is free and open to the public.

Media Contacts:
For press credentials contact:
Aaron Crisler
aaron@thejudynelongroup.com
615-474-8673

For more information about SGMG and other media inquiries contact:
Crystal Burchette-Johnson
crystalpr@comcast.net
615-473-4619

To schedule interviews with the Oak Ridge Boys contact:
Kirt Webster
kirt@websterpr.com
615-777-6995 x30

Southern Gospel, Bluegrass and Country Legends Honored in the Carolinas

The Carolinas Country-Bluegrass-Gospel Hall of Fame recently held its third annual awards celebration adding several Georgians to their honorees.
Among the Legend Award winners are entertainer/actor Randall Franks, entertainer “Doc” Tommy Scott, and Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame member Ed Wallace.
Franks of Ringgold, Ga. is best known as “Officer Randy Goode” from “In the Heat of the Night.”
"I am honored to be among my fellow Georgians who were recognized for their contributions to the musical experience in North and South Carolina. I have enjoyed some of my greatest performance opportunities there from appearing with my band the Peachtree Pickers as a youth at Myrtle Beach for Norman Adams, to appearing with Bill Monroe, Jim and Jesse, and others around the two states. My Randall Franks Show held its biggest performance in the Carolinas for a crowd of 30,000, so I have many fond memories of the great folks in the Carolinas who have supported me."
Scott, 92, of Toccoa, Ga. was a 1940s Grand Ole Opry ® star and a western film star who hosted two nationwide TV shows in the 1940s and 50s and made over 29,000 public appearances.
“I was honored to be included among this talented group of award recipients,” Scott said. “From my early days on radio on WPTF, WRAL, and later for the Man O Ree and Vim Herb Medicine companies, the folks in the Carolinas have always been part of my life and music. North Carolina and South Carolina are among the top states where my own medicine show made repeat appearances throughout my career.”
Wallace of the Sunshine Boys and the Light Crust Doughboys starred in films, on radio and records and in venues around the world.
"This award means a great deal to me since it took me back to my roots when I started with the Sunshine Boys at WSB radio in Atlanta, Ga. in 1942,” Wallace said. “It was the background of everything I have done in the music field since it led from radio to record
contracts, movies, television and personal appearances all over the United States and foreign countries.
“This award puts the icing on the cake and I appreciate the Carolinas Country-Bluegrass-Gospel Hall of Fame for this honor."
Also honored from Georgia were Georgia Music Hall of Fame member Johnny Carson and Phyllis A. Cole of Atlanta, Ga. receiving both the Pioneer and Icon awards for their work in perpetuating the music. Jerry and Helen Burke of Woodstock, Ga. received the Pioneer, Community Service and Icon awards while singer/guitarist Rick Smith and Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame staff member Carol Edwards were honored with Legend Awards.
“These Georgians have had a tremendous impact on the Carolinas,” said Burlan Dean Marsh, president. “Through live and radio performances, promoting events featuring South Carolina talent they all individually became part of the musical fabric of our communities.”
Marsh, a bass player, serves as president of the organization while banjo stylist J. Max McKee of Shelby, NC and performer Bob Wyatt of Rock Hill, SC are its founders.
“The purpose of our organization is to help musicians in need,” McKee said.
Wyatt said that it is through the teamwork of the board and members that the organization continues to grow.
The organization presented awards to numerous recipients throughout the course of the evening that incorporated musical performances.
Among the categories were Hall of Fame, Hall of Honor, Heritage Awards, Legends Awards, Pioneer Awards, Horizon Awards, Community Service Awards, Icon Awards, Band Awards, Special Awards and Media Awards.
Hall of Fame inductees include Frances C. Strait, Burlan Dean Marsh, Dan X. Padgett, Dwayne Ford, Jimmie Claude Carter, Rebecca Merli, and Gilbert Hames.
Hall of Honor inductees were Tom Griffith, Bobby Wray, Bruce Gibbins, James Soder, Tommy Kay, Billy Meridith, Roger Dale Owens, James Walt Ramey, Ralph Biggers, Steve Hubbs, Blake Stevens, and Michelle M. Osborne.
The late Carl Story was among the 10 Heritage Award honorees.
The organization honored Timber Ridge as Band of the Year; J. Max McKee for guitarist; David Heffner for mandolin; Burlan Dean Marsh for bass; Jim Reynolds for banjo; Dave McClellan and Roger Owens for Dobro ®; Don Armstrong for rhythm guitar; Melvin Roten for fiddle; Golden Valley Crusaders Gospel Band of the Year; Millard Edwards of WAXM as disc jockey; and Teena McKee as female vocalist.

Ron Brewer's Top Ten on SGM Radio Blog

We are thrilled to share with you these mini-interviews with some great Southern Gospel artists! Check back often to see who is next on the SGM Radio Blog's Top Ten!

Ron Brewer…by Ron Brewer
Hometown: Summerville, Georgia
Since 2002, Ron has traveled throughout the United States and appeared in concerts, auditoriums, churches, revivals, camp meetings and various other venues, including the National Quartet Convention. Ron has also appeared on many syndicated Television and radio programs, and has been nominated for the 2009 Diamond Award, Soloist of the Year, 2009 Top Five Favorite Male Vocalist- Southern Gospel Music Fan Fair and the 2008 Diamond Award Top Five, Soloist of the Year.

Ron Brewer’s Top Ten
1. Please tell us the name of your latest recording and your favorite song from that CD. What is the message behind this song?
“Won To The Highest Power.” We All Came Through The Blood. I like this song because it speaks on no matter what denomination you are, we all have one thing in common, when we all get to heaven, we will all have to go through the blood of Jesus Christ.
2. What is one group highlight from the last 12 months?
I would have to say the chapel service at Christmas in the Smokies in December when we saw seven saved and 16 rededications. That was so awesome.
3. How much time do you spend daily on the Net? Favorite website?
At least 6 hours a day. Can I have more than one? Facebook and SGN Scoops.
4. What artist are you listening to right now? Who is in your player?
Jason Crabb
5. What would be your fantasy venue, the one stage in the world where you would like to sing?
The Grand Ole Opry.
6. What is one habit you would like to break?
Pacing. I wear out more shoes from pacing.
7. Who is your most favorite Bible person/character?
Moses
8. What is your favorite Bible verse?
I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me.
9. Where do you like to shop?
Bass Pro Shop
10. What is the last book you read?
90 Minutes in Heaven

Contact Ron Brewer at:
706-857-5072
ron@ronbrewerministries.com

Sky Angel Adds Award-Winning Bible Study Curriculum from LifeTogether Publishing To VOD

More than 65 video sessions with Bible studies available in March 2010

( Naples , FL – February 24, 2010) –Sky Angel announced today that it will soon launch a Small Group Bible Study category through Video On Demand. The curriculum, by LifeTogether Publishing in association with GroupSpice.com, will offer a wide range of materials appropriate for small groups.

More than 65 video sessions will be available through Sky Angel VOD. Content includes best-selling author Randy Alcorn teaching on Heaven; the Deepening Life Together series taught by dynamic and inspirational teachers with commentary by scholars and special guests from leading Christian colleges and seminaries, Laugh Together, a comedy-based Bible study featuring some of the funniest Christian comedians; Faith in Film, a series of short films told as parables with exciting story lines, character development and surprise endings; and animated family programming.

The LifeTogether curriculum is built completely on the 5 Biblical purposes, as outlined in Rick Warren’s “Purpose Driven Life” book, and includes proven techniques to enhance fellowship, discipleship, ministry, evangelism and worship. With over 2.5 million copies sold worldwide, LifeTogether is a leading producer of small group curricula. Their time-tested and proven techniques work exponentially in starting or sustaining small group ministries.

After watching the video segment with Sky Angel’s Video On Demand, the group will go through the curriculum. Bible studies and Discussion Guides are available for download from GroupSpice.com. Designed to encourage group participation, accountability and application of the material, Bible Study guides include Leader Notes, Spiritual Assessments and forms to chart and track individual spiritual growth.

“I'm very excited about bringing this great content to our On Demand platform,” said Darren Moorman, Vice President – On-Demand Programming.

“We are pleased to enter into this relationship with Sky Angel,” said John Nill, President of LifeTogether Publishing, “Their network of faith-based and family-friendly programming is the ideal platform to deliver video Bible studies into homes and churches.”

Sky Angel offers subscribers over 80 television and radio channels of faith-based and family-friendly channels, with entertainment, educational, sports and news programming compatible with your current TV service. Sky Angel requires no dish or antenna, is easily installed, and includes value-added features like 48-hour playback on all Faith-based television channels plus an ever-growing Video-On-Demand library with free and fee-based selections. To learn more, or to subscribe, visit www.skyangel.com or call 1-800-SKY-ANGEL (1-800-759-2643).


About Sky Angel
Sky Angel® U.S. LLC is a Christian-owned multi-channel provider of faith-based and family-friendly television and radio programming. Founded by Robert Johnson Sr. more than 28 years ago, Sky Angel was created to provide a Christ-centered and family-friendly alternative to the standard television fare. Since then, his vision has grown into a service providing quality television and radio programming throughout the United States . Sky Angel carries the Parents Television Council’s® prestigious Entertainment Seal of Approval™, which recognizes excellence and social responsibility in programming.

About LifeTogether Publishing
LifeTogether Publishing is a leading producer of small group curricula and custom campaigns for churches. Committed to helping churches start and sustain vital small group ministries that allow participants to share life together and create a positive impact on their communities, LifeTogether is helping bring purpose to life (www.deepeninglifetogether.net).

About GroupSpice.com
A website developed to provide quality Bible studies and products to “spice up” a small group. With content appropriate for Sunday school classes and family devotion nights, GroupSpice.com makes it easy for group leaders to have a dynamic group. They guarantee a 3-day delivery on orders that enter promo code “Sky Angel” at check out (www.GroupSpice.com)

INTEGRITY MUSICS 18 DOVE AWARD NOMINATIONS INCLUDE MULTIPLE NODS FOR KARI JOBE, ISRAEL HOUGHTON AND PAUL BALOCHE

Kari Jobe Nominated as New Artist of the Year While Mary Mary Among Artist of the Year Nominees

MOBILE, Ala. February 23, 2010 When nominations were announced last week for the 41st Annual GMA Dove Awards, Integrity Musics signed and distributed artists and songwriters received an impressive 18 nods.

With one of the most successful CDs by a debut artist in recent years and the top-selling new artist album of 2009, Kari Jobe was nominated as New Artist of the Year. The artist/songwriter/worship leader earned a total of three nominations. Her additional nods were for Spanish Language Album for the Spanish version of her debut record and for Special Event Album of the Year for her participation on the Glory Revealed II: The Word of God In Worship.

I am so excited to be up for these nominations! Its a dream come true and such an honor. Im having more fun meeting other artists that Ive looked up to over the years and the newer ones who I am running alongside now in ministry and life. Its so fun, and I cannot wait for April 21st and the Dove Awards show, a joyful Jobe responded after not only receiving the three nominations but also participating in the press conference in Nashville to make the Dove Awards announcement. Before the Dove Awards in April, Jobe will be performing on tour with Desperation Band and leading worship at churches across the country.

"Revelation Song," which is featured on Jobe's debut album and was a radio hit for Phillips, Craig & Dean, was nominated for two songwriter awards - Song of the Year and Worship Song of the Year - for Jennie Lee Riddle, a Gateway Create/Integrity Praise Music songwriter

Mary Mary, whose recent album The Sound has won for the sister duo both Stellar Awards and a GRAMMY Award, was honored with their first nomination in the Dove Awards top category Artist of the Year. The sister duo who records on Columbia Records and is distributed by Integrity Music, is currently featured prominently in the 25th anniversary recording of We Are the World, the multi-artist Haiti benefit song and video.

Fresh from his GRAMMY Award win last month, Israel Houghton earned four nominations, including three nominations for songs from his GRAMMY Award-winning album The Power of One. Just Wanna Say was nominated for Urban Recorded Song of the Year while Every Prayer and The Power of One share nominations in the Contemporary Gospel Recorded Song of the Year. Houghton received a fourth nomination for Special Event Album for his contributions to CompassionArt: Creating Freedom From Poverty.

Also nominated for the CompassionArt project was Paul Baloche. Baloche earned a second nomination for Worship Song of the Year for Hosanna.

Hillsongs Brooke Fraser penned a worship song also called Hosanna, and that modern hymn was nominated for Inspirational Song of the Year from Selahs album You Deliver Me. Hillsong was also recognized with a Dove Award nomination for Long Form Video of the Year for Faith + Hope + Love.

Integritys other album nominations include Country music superstar Collin Rayes first solo Dove Award nomination for his TimeLife/Integrity Music CD Never Going Back. Integrity Music Latins Julissa was nominated in the Spanish Language Album category for Adorandote and in the Childrens Music Album category, Shout Praises Kids Today is the Day was recognized. Finally, Integritys Choral division earned a nod for Youth/Childrens Music of the Year for Get To The Manager by Jeff Sandstrom.

(For the second year in a row, fans will be able to cast their votes online for Artist of the Year and New Artist of the Year. Fans can vote for Jobe as New Artist and Mary Mary for Artist starting the first week of March at www.gmclife.com ( http://e2ma.net/go/8026646646/2594624/91758845/23079/goto:http://www.gmclife.com/ ).)

The GMA Dove Awards is Christian/Gospel musics biggest night of the year, where top artists from every style of gospel music come together for a night of music and celebration as the GMA bestows the industry's highest honor -- the Dove Award. The 41st Annual Dove Awards will be held on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at Nashvilles famed Grand Ole Opry House and televised nationwide on gmc (http://www.gmclife.com ( http://e2ma.net/go/8026646646/2594624/91758846/23079/goto:http://www.gmclife.com/ )), Sunday, April 25, 2010 from 8 p.m. - 10 p.m. EST. gmc is the fastest-growing network in television and can be seen in 46 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.

PERFECT HEART SIGNS EXCLUSIVE REPRESENTATION AGREEMENT WITH THE FREE SPIRIT AGENCY.

Multiple award-winning quartet, Perfect Heart has entered into an exclusive representation agreement with the Free Spirit Agency. The Free Spirit Agency will be handling all personal appearance scheduling for the quartet.

Terry Dorsey, CEO and Managing Agent of the Free Spirit Agency shares his excitement about this association with Perfect Heart. “It is an honor to be working with a quartet of the caliber of Perfect Heart. These are four dedicated and talent men of God who will be a major impact on the future of this industry and I am happy to be a part of what they are doing.”

After a brief retirement, original member Mike Presnell is returning to be a part of introducing Perfect Heart back to the southern gospel world. “Perfect Heart is excited to partner up exclusively with the Free Spirit Agency.” says Mike Presnell, founding member and bass singer for the quartet. “It’s great to be working with someone that has the knowledge and experience that Terry Dorsey and the Free Spirit Agency brings to the industry. With the history and knowledge that this team brings to southern gospel music, I feel that this is a perfect fit for what we see as a great future together.”

Perfect Heart has a great history in Southern Gospel music and a very bright future in the industry. A new recording entitled, “The Best of Perfect Heart,” is to be released soon. A new single, “Glory Waves”, is currently playing on southern gospel music radio.

To schedule Perfect Heart for your next concert or special event contact Terry Dorsey at 502-314-9373 or by email at freespiritagency@yahoo.com.

About Perfect Heart
In the early 1990’s, Perfect Heart was introduced to the world of the southern gospel music industry. Perfect Heart consisted of the best of the best talent in gospel music. The first song that Perfect Heart released, “Somebody Touched the Lord”, went to #1 on the gospel chart and received national attention as well as Song of the Year. Perfect Heart quartet has been the only group in their genre to ever have a #1 debut song. During that first year, Perfect Heart also received the award as Horizon Group of the Year. Current group members are Mike Presnell, Jimmy Dunn, Wesley Anders and Tommy Smith.

Free Spirit Agency proudly represents Perfect Heart, Dino Kartsonakis, The Weatherfords, Danny Funderburk, Eighth Day, Dane Bailey.

First List of Performers Announced for 2010 SGN Music Awards Celebration

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Deon and Susan Unthank, administrators of SoGospelNews.com, are proud to announce the first list of performers for the 2010 SGN Music Awards Celebration.

Performers for this year’s SGN Music Awards Celebration include The Isaacs, Booth Brothers, Karen Peck & New River, The Perrys, Jeff & Sheri Easter, The Freemans, The Bowling Family (formerly Mike & Kelly Bowling), Soul’d Out Quartet, and McMillan & Life.

Additional performers and hosts are still being confirmed and will be announced at a later date.

“We have so much planned for this year’s awards program,” mentioned Deon Unthank of SoGospelNews.com. “We will be making a big announcement at the event, so we hope that everyone who can join us, will.”

In addition, the evening will feature a mutli-artist collaboration that will honor the Southern Gospel veterans the Singing Cookes and the legacy that they have left and continue to leave today.

The date for this year’s SGN Music Awards Celebration is Tuesday, April 13, 2010. The event will again take place at the River of Life Church in Smyrna, Tennesse and is free to the public. The awards program will start at 7:00 p.m. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.

As far as nominations go, two artists tied for the most nominations among performers this year. Both The Perrys and Karen Peck & New River landed a stellar nine nominations apiece – more than any other artist this year. 2008’s Pacesetter the Dove Brothers earned eight nods. Following behind those artists were Legacy Five, The Isaacs, and Booth Brothers with seven nominations apiece. Triumphant Quartet and Brian Free & Assurance both landed six nominations. Two artists received five nominations – the Bowling Family (formerly Mike & Kelly Bowling) and Talley Trio.

Songwriter and producer Wayne Haun earned the most individual nominations for his work during 2009. Rodney Griffin earned six individual nominations for his songwriting work. Earning five individual nominations were songwriters Marty Funderburk (2009’s Songwriter of the Year winner) and Rusty Golden. Gospel legend Bill Gaither, songwriter Joel Lindsey, and The Perrys’ lead singer Joseph Habedank all earned four individual nominations.

The Pacesetter Award is awarded to any artist, individual, or organization which has shown great strides in the industry and has raised the bar for others. This year’s nominees for the 2010 Pacesetter are new Gospel music celebration Branson Gospel Music Convention, Crossroads Music Group, SGShowPrep’s Chuck Peters, digital news outlet SGN Scoops Digital, and Vine Records.

For a full list of nominees, visit SoGospelNews.com.

More information on the 2010 SGN Music Awards Celebration will be forthcoming, including hosts, additional performers, and sponsors, etc.

About SoGospelNews.com
SoGospelNews.com has grown from relative obscurity to the industry's leading internet publication for Southern Gospel news and information in only a few short years. The site includes a wide variety of features, consisting of artist interviews, a weekly chart, late-breaking news, and much more.

TANGLE.COM ANNOUNCES AGREEMENT WITH EMI CHRISTIAN MUSIC GROUP

(February 23, 2010) PLANO, TX – tangle.com, the world’s largest Christian online community, today announced a multi-year licensing agreement with Christian recorded music, distribution, and music publishing company EMI Christian Music Group (EMI CMG) for audio and video streaming, giving users of the world’s largest online Christian community unlimited access to some of the biggest names in gospel music – including TobyMac, Chris Tomlin, Steven Curtis Chapman, Amy Grant, Jeremy Camp, Newsboys, Underoath, David Crowder*Band, Thousand Foot Krutch, Matthew West and Bill & Gloria Gaither.

The partnership brings together tangle.com’s average of 2.5 million unique monthly visitors and nearly a million registered users with the digital distribution leader in Christian music¹. Under the agreement EMI CMG gives tangle.com users access to authorized videos and recordings, including user-generated content, of all EMI CMG and digitally distributed label artists. tangle.com will provide content aggregation, distribution and syndication, including ongoing promotions that will feature EMI CMG artists in highly visible positioning.

tangle.com CEO Trey Bowles said, “Music has become fundamental to tangle’s social networking community and with more than 50 percent of our searches looking to connect to music related content, it is one of the most important content elements on tangle.com. We sought a partnership specifically with EMI CMG because of the quality, creativity and integrity of the EMI roster and we look forward to helping them build meaningful interactions with their fans.”

“Our new partnership with tangle.com is niche marketing at its most powerful. EMI CMG can expand the impact of our artists by exposing their music directly to millions of Christian music fans who have chosen tangle.com as their preferred choice for social networking and online sharing. We see it as a great opportunity to create deeper engagement between artists and fans,” said Bill Hearn, president and CEO of EMI CMG.

As this agreement is announced, TobyMac is featured prominently on tangle.com for his new CD Tonight which hit the Billboard Top 200 chart at #6 last week. Positioning on tangle.com will assure every visitor to the site will see the promotion for TobyMac’s new CD and is typical of those that EMI CMG will continue to work with tangle. Promotions may include featured videos and music downloads, full-length album stream parties, artist devotionals, retail banner ads, homepage positioning, contests and sweepstakes and more.

About EMI CMG Distribution (www.emicmg.com):
EMI CMG Distribution was founded in 1994 to serve as the main distribution outlet for EMI CMG's owned and distributed labels to the US Christian and general retail marketplace, and the international Christian marketplace. Since this distribution division was launched, EMI CMG has had more charting titles annually on Billboard’s Top Christian Charts than any other Christian distributor and has been named Billboard Magazine’s Top Christian Music Distributor 10 times since 1995. In addition to distributing EMI CMG fully-owned labels, which include EMI CMG Label Group's Sparrow, ForeFront, and Credential imprints, as well as EMI Gospel and Worship Together, EMI CMG Distribution has digital distribution agreements with Tooth & Nail/BEC, Centricity, EE-Taow Records, Gaither Music Group, Green Hill Productions, Inpop, Just Me Music, Spring Hill Music Group, VSR Music Group, Creative Trust Media, KingsWay and Guardian Studios/Bananas. EMI CMG Distribution is a division of EMI CMG, a unit of EMI Music (www.emi.com). EMI Music is the recorded music division of EMI Group Limited, one of the world's largest independent music companies. Its EMI Music division represents artists spanning all musical tastes and genres. Its record labels include Angel, Astralwerks, Blue Note, Capitol, Capitol Nashville, EMI Classics, EMI CMG, EMI Records, EMI Televisa Music, Manhattan, Mute, Parlophone and Virgin.

About tangle.com (www.tangle.com)
tangle.com is a global technology company that creates social networking tools for the faith-based and family marketplace. As one of the largest providers of Christian content in the world, tangle.com reaches well over two million unique visitors a month, with millions of page views and maintains over 750,000 registered users. Providing a place for Christians to connect, watch and share videos, access the top artists in Christian music, read the Bible online through the Online Bible, upload prayers to the Prayer Wall and network with friends, tangle has become the largest Christian social network in the world. tangle is owned and operated by Big Jump Media Inc.

# # #

1 According to the Christian Music Trade Association YTD albums and track label share reports.

SGM Radio Blog's "Top Ten" by Johnmark Grant

We are thrilled to share with you these mini-interviews with some great Southern Gospel artists! Check back often to see who is next on the SGM Radio Blog's Top Ten!

Johnmark Grant...by Johnmark Grant
Home: Southampton, United Kingdom
About Johnmark: Currently a youth worker, musician and song writer, Johnmark Grant has composed many songs and loves playing musical instruments. He is the son of Evangelist John Grant, has traveled since he was three days old, and gave his life to the Lord at a young age. Johnmark has traveled to many countries including: Barbados, Belgium, Denmark, England, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden.
In all these countries, he has sung, preached and done youth work, in churches, and on the streets, sharing the Gospel for 21 years.

Johnmark Grant's Top Ten
1.Please tell us the name of your latest recording and your favorite song from that CD. What is the message behind this song?
My latest recording is a song I'm in the middle of writing, called There's a Brighter Day Up Ahead. The message is that it does not matter what you`re going through, you need to remember that for a little while there will be trials, but there will be a brighter day coming, as Jesus said.
2.What is one group highlight from the last 12 months?
My brother Daniel just had a brain operation and had tumours removed sucessfully. Through it all we trusted God and He brought my brother through.
3.What is the best city to visit?
Again so many wonderful places! I like Randers, Danmark, for a few reasons. First of all I have a lot of close friends there, and second it has the second largest Elvis Museum in the world! I'm sure Ernie Haase will agree thats a good enough reason to visit a town.
And,if you have ever been in Norway for their National day ( May 17th ) it's a sight to see with all the old clothes and children in the Street parades. It's a bit like the 4th of July in Usa.
4.Have you been on a mission trip? If you have, where did you go? If you haven’t, would you like to and where would you want to go?
Every Christian's life should be a mission trip, and every sinner their mission field. Yes, in the summer between my tours in Europe, I do a few weeks of Beach Missions.
5.What artist are you listening to right now? Who is in your player?
Miley Cyrus, Butterfly Fly Away, & The Climb.
6.Brush with greatness…who have you met that you couldn’t wait to tell your friends and family about?
I'd say meeting the late Oral Roberts and his daughter, Roberta Roberts.
My dad had meetings with the late Oral Roberts, and when Roberta Roberts and some students came to England years ago, she stayed in my Grandmother's home. (though I have not met either of them, my family has)
7.If you could visit any planet, which one would it be and why?
VY CANS MAJORIS: it's the largest planet in the Universe, and it makes the Earth look like a speck of dust compared to it!
8.What would be your fantasy venue, the one stage in the world where you would like to sing?
It would be on a Welsh Gaither Homecoming DVD, if they ever made one!
9. What is your favorite Bible verse?
Greater love hath no man that this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
10. Name a character trait or fruit of the spirit you would really like to develop in your life.
Patience
Johnmark Grant
Email: info@johnmarkgrant.com

Instant Messengers:
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Dailey and Vincent: “ON THE OTHER SIDE” EARNS DOVE AWARD NOMINATION

NASHVILLE, TENN. (February 19, 2010)--Dailey & Vincent Sing the Statler Brothers, available exclusively at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store®, remains at #1 on the Billboard Top Bluegrass Albums chart for a second week (February 27 issue).

Robert K. Oermann calls the album “an audio delight from start to finish.” And Jon Caramanica of The New York Times included it in his Valentine’s Day Playlist of “impressive” recent releases, singling out the group’s performance of “I’ll Go To My Grave Loving You.”

Dailey & Vincent were honored yesterday to receive a Dove Award nomination for Bluegrass Recorded Song of the Year for “On the Other Side,” from their sophomore Rounder Records release, Brothers From Different Mothers. In addition, Darrin received a nomination as producer of Lord, Bless This House by Nothin’ Fancy, which is up for Bluegrass Album of the Year. The 41st Annual GMA Dove Awards Show will take place on April 21.


Dailey & Vincent Sing the Statler Brothers will be featured in a Track-by-Track with Kyle Cantrell on Bluegrass Junction (Sirius 65, XM 14), premiering February 24 at 11:00 a.m., with repeat airings on Sunday, February 28, at 11:00 a.m. and Tuesday, March 2, at 9:00 p.m. (all times eastern). Tune in as Jamie and Darrin chat with Kyle about each of the songs in the collection.

Dailey & Vincent are featured in the current (Feb. 22) issue of Country Weekly. They will perform on the Grand Ole Opry on February 27. Their performance on The Marty Stuart Show will air on February 27 at 8:00 p.m. eastern on RFD-TV. Re-airings are on Sundays at 10:00 a.m., Mondays at 3:00 p.m., and Tuesdays at 1:00 a.m. (all times eastern).

For more information and tour updates, visit www.daileyvincent.com.

Austins Bridge Receive Record Number of Dove Nominations

Nashville, TN – Dove Award winning group, Austins Bridge, received a record number of Dove nominations at today’s announcements in Nashville, TN. The categories Austins Bridge received nominations are as follows:

» Country Album of the Year – “Live At Oak Tree”
» Country Recorded Song of the Year – “Dry Bones”
» Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year – “Hold On To Jesus”
» Long Form Music Video of the Year – “Live At Oak Tree: Austins Bridge”
“We are so surprised, no, shocked would be a word,” says Austins Bridge. “We had no idea we would be in the running for anything this year let alone four Dove nominations! It is such an honor to be in contention with such a highly esteemed group of artists. We are truly blessed. Thank you Jesus and thank you to everyone in the industry who voted for us.”


Live At Oak Tree is a live album performance and video taping that gives viewers the experience of a recording studio and concert at the same time. The CD showcases the amazing acoustic performances by Austins Bridge and was produced by Paul Corley, Tre Corley, Norman Holland, Michael Turner and Shannon Lancaster.

Austins Bridge won their first Dove award for Bluegrass Song of the Year, “He’s In Control,” which is from their self-titled debut project. They also received two additional 2008 Dove nominations from the same album for New Artist of the Year and Country Album of the Year.

Austins Bridge is poised to release their sophomore project, Times Like These, on May 4, 2010. The CD was produced by Jay DeMarcus (Rascal Flatts) and the first single from the project, “Mercy,” will go for adds at radio March 5th.

For more information on Austins Bridge please visit their website, www.austinsbridge.com

SGM Radio Blog's Top Ten by the Concords

We are thrilled to share with you these mini-interviews with some great Southern Gospel artists! Check back often to see who is next on the SGM Radio Blog's Top Ten!
The Concords, by the Concords!
We are a family that feels that God has blessed them for a purpose; to lift up people that feel they have no hope and to show them Christ thru our lives and our singing of our songs. The group is based in southern Ohio, a small village of Patriot, Ohio. Our family includes Pat my wife and three daughters Elizabeth Miller Clary (and a great son-in-law Wes Clary), and my twins, Amber and Ashley Miller.

Top Ten Questions

1. Please tell us the name of your latest recording and your favorite song from that CD. What is the message behind this song?
CD- Second Chance…..Favorite Song: Second Chance. My wife Pat wrote it and it gives hope to everyone that God always gives us a second chance at life.
2.What is the best city to visit in the US? And…if you’ve been…in Canada?
We love Lexington, Ky. We love Ottawa, Ont. Having a bunch of cousins there helps to show you around a very beautiful city.
3.Have you been on a mission trip? If you have, where did you go? If you haven’t, would you like to and where would you want to go?
As a group we are wanting to go to Arizona and sing and help on the Indian reservation. for the S.W.I.M. Thru Church of God.
4. How much time do you spend daily on the Net? 2 hrs Favorite website? SGN Scoops
5. What artist are you listening to right now? Whisnants Who is in your player? James Rainey piano CD
6. If you could visit any planet, which one would it be and why? Saturn, it’s sooooo big!
7. What is your favorite Bible verse? Phil 4:13
8. Name a song that once it gets stuck in your head you can’t get it out: I’ll fly away
9. Where do you like to shop? Dah….Lowes
10. What is the last book you read? 23 Minutes In Hell

Brothers Forever Nominated In 2010 Christian Music Hall of Fame Visionary Awards

CHURCH HILL, Tenn. – Popular trio Brothers Forever has been nominated for their first Christian Music Hall of Fame Visionary Award. The trio received a nominated for Southern Gospel Group of the Year. Other artists nominated for the award include the Booth Brothers, Gaither Vocal Band, The Nelons, and Legacy Five.

Curtis Hagy of Brothers Forever said, “Its an incredible honor to be nominated alongside such talented groups, especially with two of the greatest groups to ever grace the stage of gospel music - The Gaither Vocal Band and The Booth Brothers. Being a group that’s only in its sixth year, this is an incredible honor and all of nominees represent what we strive to achieve in our music and ministry.”

The nominees for the Visionary Awards were announced on Monday, February 15, 2010. The winners will be announced live during the annual award show to be held on November 6, 2010.

This is the second Visionary Awards show and the third show inducting artists into the Hall of Fame. The hosts for the 2010 Visionary Awards were announced last week and will be hosted by award winning artists David Meece and Babbie Mason. The show will be live in the Dallas, Texas area and the location will be announced in the next few weeks.

Fans are urged to go to the charity web site at www.hallmuseum.com and vote for their favorites in each category.

Brothers Forever recently wrapped up a successful run on the 2009 Breakthrough Tour. The 2009 Breakthrough Tour saw Brothers Forever in several states including North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Massachusetts, Washington, Idaho, Texas, Arizona, Florida, Louisiana, and Alabama.

Brothers Forever are currently booking dates for their upcoming Spring tour. More information on that will be announced at a later date.

To visit the newly designed Brothers Forever website, visit http://www.brothersforever.net.

About Brothers Forever
Brothers Forever is based out of Church Hill, Tennessee. Nestled in the foothills of upper East Tennessee, this group has quickly become known for their unique style of southern gospel music. Songs such as "I Feel a Blessing Coming On" and "I Can’t Forget the Day" have become nationwide favorites. Brothers Forever felt the call to the music ministry a little over a few years ago, and since the group’s inception, it has been an exciting journey.

Jonathan Edwards Named Music Production Director for 2010 Diamond Awards

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Coastal Media Group and SGN Scoops Digital are happy to announce the addition of Jonathan Edwards to the staff of the 2010 SGN Scoops Diamond Awards. Edwards has been appointed Music Production Director for the awards ceremony.

Edwards is a known professional in the Southern Gospel community. In addition to performing with the Ascension Quartet, Jonathan is also the late afternoon and early evening DJ for Springfield, Missouri’s KWFC-FM – one of Southern Gospel’s most loved and respected radio stations.

Rob Patz, President of Coastal Media Group (owners of SGN Scoops Digital) said, "I'm excited to be able to have someone of Jonathan Edwards’ caliber as our Music Production Director for the Diamond Awards. His vast background, not only in music but audio production, will allow us to put on a first class show."

“It is such an honor for me to join Rob Patz and the rest of the fine folks who make the Diamond Awards happen,” responded Jonathan. “I look forward to a great show and will do what I can to make it the best musical awards show around.”

The 2010 Diamond Awards are set to take place on July 1, 2010 during the Branson Gospel Music Convention. Nominations for the Top 10 ballot are currently being accepted through February 28, 2010.

For more information on the Diamond Awards – visit the SGN Scoops Digital website at http://www.sgnscoops.com .

About the Diamond Awards
The Diamond Awards were transferred over to the SGN Scoops Digital several years ago after the original home for the awards, the Gospel Voice Magazine, folded. The Diamond Awards are a fan-based award that allows the fans to choose the nominees as well as the winners each year. The awards show is held during the Branson Gospel Music Convention every summer.

The "Better Halves" of Praise Incorporated Featured in This Month’s SGN Scoops Digital

FORT WORTH, Texas – Praise Incorporated is honored to have their “better halves” featured in this month’s issue of SGN Scoops Digital. Two wives of members of the popular quartet were featured in a section devoted to wives of Southern Gospel artists and industry personnel.

Called the Bus Mom/Quartet Version, Sharon Bares, wife of Praise Incorporated’s bass singer Greg Bares was quoted in the article as saying, “I thank God that He is allowing me to travel full time with a bus full of Godly men doing His work. These eyes of a quartet wife see these men serve when they can hardly stand on the stage because of back pain or they can hardly speak because of some illness and yet they serve, with joy because there is always room at the cross for just one more. We are a family, leaving our families behind, to bring the good news about God’s family to those without hope. When you experience the salvation of someone who was once dead and is now
alive forever, because of Jesus Christ, you can say with confidence that all the sacrifices are worth it, even if it were just for one.”

Also featured in the article was group member Steve Sam’s wife – Myrna. Being touted as the Stay-At-Home Quartet wife, Myrna juxtaposes Sharon’s thoughts by saying, “My advice to the wives and husbands left home to work to pay the bills and to keep the homefires burning? Pray hard. Work hard. Don’t forget to pay the cell phone bill. And for heaven’s sake, learn how to check your own Freon!”

Steve Sam of Praise Incorporated said, “Our wives are the most important aspect of our ministry. Without them – we wouldn’t be able to sing like we do. We are so honored that SGN Scoops Digital chose to recognize the work that not only our wives do, but the wives of hundreds of men who get on a bus every weekend to do the ministry of our Lord.”

Additional women featured in the February 2010 issue of Southern Gospel’s original all digital magazine include Debra Talley, Tori Taff (wife of Russ Taff), SoGospelNews.com’s Susan Unthank, and others.

For more information or instructions on how to download the latest issue of SGN Scoops Digital – visit http://www.sgnscoops.com .

For more information on Praise Incorporated, visit their website at http://www.praiseinc.com .

About Praise Incorporated
With a focus on musical excellence and integrity in ministry, Praise Incorporated has devoted their lives to reaching the lost and encouraging the Christian, through music and spoken word. Building on combined decades of music experience, Steve Sam, Ron Higgins, Greg Bares and Dodd Meadows have hearts for the Lord and that gives Praise Incorporated the musical excellence it strives for.

Exclusively Distributed New Day Artists Nominated in Dove Awards

Nashville, Tenn. (February 18, 2010) – New Day Christian Distributors is honored to announce that many of their exclusive artists received Dove nominations during this morning’s nominee press conference, held at the Curb Café at Belmont University in Nashville, Tenn.

New Day exclusively distributed artist, Bluetree, with their album, God Of The City, has made an incredible impact this year. Their success was reflected in a New Artist of the Year nomination. Other New Day exclusive nominations include Keith & Kristyn Getty for Praise and Worship Album of the Year, Awaken The Dawn
(Phil Naish), Getty Music, and BeBe & CeCe Winans’ song “Close To You” (BeBe Winans, B & C Records, Malaco), was nominated for Urban Recorded Song of the Year, from the album, Still (BeBe Winans, B & C Records, Malaco).

Garnering four nominations is Daywind Records’ artist, Austins Bridge. Their nominations include Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year, “Hold On To Jesus” (Justin Rivers, Jason Baird), on Live At Oak Tree: Austins Bridge; Country Recorded Song of the Year, “Dry Bones,” (PD Arr by Justin Rivers, Bubba Smith) also on Live At Oak Tree: Austins Bridge; Country Album of the Year, Live At Oak Tree: Austins Bridge (Paul Corley, Tre Corley, Norman Holland, Michael Turner, Shannon Lancaster); and Long Form Music Video of the Year, Live At Oak Tree: Austins Bridge (Graham Bustin, Paul Corley, Tre Corley, Norman Holland, Michael Turner, Shannon Lancaster).

Receiving an Inspirational Album of the Year nomination is Daywind artist, Aaron and Amanda Crabb for Live At Oak Tree: Aaron and Amanda Crabb (Paul Corley, Tre Corley, Norman Holland, Michael Turner, Shannon Lancaster). Karen Peck & New River (Daywind Records) received a nomination for Song of the Year for their song “Why Can’t All God’s Children Get Along” (Stephen Hill). Also, Karen Peck Gooch (Karen Peck & New River) was honored with a nomination in the Female Artist of the Year category. There were five additional Daywind Music Group nominations.

The 41st Annual GMA Dove Awards will be held on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at Nashville’s famed Grand Ole Opry House and televised nationwide on the Gospel Music Channel (gmclife.com), Sunday, April 25, 2010, from 8 p.m. - 10 p.m. EST. While the awards are the purpose of the show, music performances will definitely share center stage at the GMA Dove Awards, showcasing some of Gospel music’s hottest and most diverse artists.

Dove Awards will be handed out in 43 categories. Dove Awards nominations go to recordings released during the eligibility year November 1, 2008, through October 31, 2009, and voted on by the members of the GMA. The complete nominations list is available at both gospelmusic.org and doveawards.com.

Tickets to the 41st Annual GMA Dove Awards are currently on sale through the Grand Ole Opry Call Center, 1-800-SEE-OPRY/1-800-733-6779, via the web at opry.com, or may be purchased in-person at The Opry Box Office located at the Opry House at 2804 Opryland Drive and the Ryman Auditorium Box Office at 116 5th Ave North, in downtown Nashville. Ticket prices range from $25 - $200.

Daywind Music Group Nominated For 11 Dove Awards

Nashville, Tenn. (February 18, 2010) - This morning during a press conference, held at the Curb Café at Belmont University in Nashville, the final Dove nominees for the 41st Annual Dove Awards were announced. Daywind Music Group is incredibly honored to have received 11 nominations this year.

Celebrating four nominations is previous New Artist of the Year nominee, Austins Bridge. They are nominated for Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year, “Hold On To Jesus” (Justin Rivers, Jason Baird), on Live At Oak Tree: Austins Bridge; Country Recorded Song of the Year, “Dry Bones,” (PD Arr by Justin Rivers, Bubba Smith) also on Live At Oak Tree: Austins Bridge; Country Album of the Year, Live At Oak Tree: Austins Bridge (Paul Corley, Tre Corley, Norman Holland, Michael Turner, Shannon Lancaster), and Long Form Music Video of the Year, Live At Oak Tree: Austins Bridge (Graham Bustin, Paul Corley, Tre Corley, Norman Holland, Michael Turner, Shannon Lancaster).

A Song of the Year nomination goes to Karen Peck & New River for “Why Can’t All God’s Children Get Along” (Stephen Hill), from their new album, No Worries. Karen Peck Gooch also received the Female Vocalist of the Year nomination. Brian Free & Assurance and the Perrys each garnered a Southern Gospel Album of the Year nomination. Brian Free & Assurance’s nominated album is entitled Worth It (Barry Weeks). The Perrys album is Almost Morning (Wayne Haun). Additionally, the Perrys received a Southern Gospel Song of the Year nod with “If You Knew Him” (Joseph Habedank, Rodney Griffin).

Receiving an Inspirational Album of the Year nomination is Aaron and Amanda Crabb for Live At Oak Tree: Aaron and Amanda Crabb (Paul Corley, Tre Corley, Norman Holland, Michael Turner, Shannon Lancaster).

Daywind Music Publishing, along with Lifeway Worship, received the nomination for Musical of the Year for the musical Reign, Jesus, Reign (Marty Funderburk, Cliff Duren).

Daywind Records’ A&R Director and Vice President, Norman Holland, shares, “We have an incredible roster of artists at Daywind Records. I know their heart, and their talent is outstanding, but on behalf of all of us at Daywind, I am thrilled that the Gospel music community recognizes them and their music as well. We congratulate the artists for their achievements, and we thank everyone involved for helping their music reach the hearts of people so that lives might be changed.”

Rick Shelton, Director of Publishing at Daywind Music Publishing, expresses, “We are honored that the GMA membership recognized the excellent work of Marty Funderburk and Cliff Duren. Reign, Jesus, Reign is a musical that celebrates the King who conquered death, Hell and the grave. We are so very grateful to receive this nomination.”

The 41st Annual GMA Dove Awards will be held on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, at Nashville’s famed Grand Ole Opry House and televised nationwide on the Gospel Music Channel (gmclife.com), Sunday, April 25, 2010 from 8 p.m. - 10 p.m. EST. While the awards are the purpose of the show, music performances will definitely share center stage at the GMA Dove Awards, showcasing some of Gospel music’s hottest and most diverse artists.

Dove Awards will be handed out in 43 categories. Dove Awards nominations go to recordings released during the eligibility year November 1, 2008, through October 31, 2009, and voted on by the members of the GMA. The complete nominations list is available at both gospelmusic.org and doveawards.com. For further information regarding Daywind Music Group, visit daywindrecords.com.

Tickets to the 41st Annual GMA Dove Awards are currently on sale through the Grand Ole Opry Call Center, 1-800-SEE-OPRY/1-800-733-6779, via the web at opry.com, or may be purchased in-person at The Opry Box Office located at the Opry House at 2804 Opryland Drive and the Ryman Auditorium Box Office at 116 5th Ave North, in downtown Nashville. Ticket prices range from $25 - $200.

MARIA ATKINS REJOINS REJOICE!

We are excited to announce that Maria Atkins has rejoined REJOICE! after a two-year “hiatus” from the road. Maria was the second soprano singer for the group for a five-year period before having to stop traveling for a time. Maria’s first weekend back with the group was February 13-14, and it was like time must have stood still for the two years she was away. “It just felt so natural to have her on stage with us; it was almost as if she had never left. The spirit in which she delivers a song’s message, as well as her ability to harmonize with other singers puts her in a special class of singers and we are blessed to be back on the road together with our friend,” says Sherri Vestal.


Rejoice! went from being a female trio to being a mixed quartet in September, 2008, when 18-year-old Tyler Vestal joined the group singing the bass part and playing the piano. It has been a treat to watch him grow as a musician and vocalist and see how people have embraced him. He has definitely become quite a crowd favorite!


For more information about Rejoice!, visit their website at www.rejoiceonline.org.

VISIONARY AWARD NOMINEES ANNOUNCED

The 2010 Visionary Awards nominations have been released by the Christian Music Hall of Fame. Winners will be presented during the annual award show to be held on November 6, 2010 in Dallas, Tx. Andy Woolard, Director of Operations for the Christian Music Hall of Fame states, "We are honored to announce these nominations and look forward to fans voting for their favorite artists." Visionary Awards are presented in 17 categories, encompassing a variety of Gospel Music genres, including Southern, Country, Rock, Hip Hop and Inspirational. Fans are urged to go to the charity web site at www.hallmuseum.com and vote for their favorites in each category. Voting begins March 1st.

The 2010 Visionary Award nominations most familiar to the southern gospel audience include these:

Southern Gospel Male Vocalist of the Year
Ivan Parker
Jason Crabb
Michael English
David Phelps
Arthur Rice

Southern Gospel Female Vocalist of the Year
Cynthia Clawson
Janet Paschal
Lauren Talley
Lynda Randle
Sheri Easter

Southern Gospel Group of the Year
Booth Brothers
Legacy 5
The Nelons
Gaither Vocal Band
Brothers Forever

Male Entertainer of the Year
David Phelps

Female Entertainer of the Year
Janet Paschal

Comedian of the Year
Chonda Pierce
Mark Lowry

Christian Country Male Vocalist of the Year
Guy Penrod

Christian Country Female Vocalist of the Year
Susie Luchsinger

Inspirational Male Vocalist of the Year
Ivan Parker

Inspirational Female Vocalist of the Year
Janet Paschal

Gospel Performer of the Year
Jessy Dixon

visit: www.hallmuseum.com

Biblica Contracts Marchiano Ministries as Exclusive Distributor of Acclaimed Films: Matthew, Acts, Jesus the Christ

Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX—On a January morning in 1993 actor, Bruce Marchiano began a life-changing journey that continues to this day. Dressed in a rustic robe and sandals, he stood on a mountainside in Quarzazate, Morocco, surrounded by cameras and film crew, waiting for the director to call, “Action!” Cast to portray Jesus in the film, The Gospel According to Matthew, little did he know that morning that the Lord would call him to found his own ministry, then give him the breathtaking responsibility of carrying that very film and the love of Jesus explored therein, to a new, 2010 generation.

Biblica (formerly International Bible Society, IBS-STL), the rights holder of Matthew and other subsequently produced films using the NIV Bible text, has contracted with (Bruce) Marchiano Ministries for a fresh release of these films throughout USA/Canada. “We are pleased to announce our partnership with Marchiano Ministries,” writes Scott W. Bolinder, Biblica President of Global Publishing, “providing them with exclusive broadcast, commercial and online distribution rights, within the USA and Canada for Biblica’s audio-visual products, Matthew, Acts, Jesus the Christ, and Who is Jesus. As such, Marchiano Ministries is the sole and only authorized distributor to the commercial wholesale and retail channel for these products, all based on the NIV text. We look forward to a growing partnership between our ministries.”

First released in the USA/Canada in 1995, The Gospel According to Matthew was a pioneering vision, breaking new ground in Jesus films, the script being entirely word-for-word from Matthew, not even one syllable added or removed. “We created Matthew on the presumption that God’s Word is far more powerful than a screenwriter’s skill,” explains the film’s director, Regardt Van den Bergh. “Who can dare to think that any man could write a better script than God Himself by inspiration of His Spirit?”

But there was more. Led in prayer and research to The Book of Hebrews 1:9, which describes Jesus as “anointed with joy above anyone else,” both Marchiano and Van den Bergh felt to portray Jesus as a “Man of Joy” as opposed to traditional representations of Jesus as aloof and emotionless. This, along with presenting Jesus in a human authenticity and with deep, personal love for people, caused a revolution in perceptions of Jesus, not to mention countless lives changed. “I’ve been a Christian for twenty-five years,” as one testimonial declares, “but I never knew who Jesus truly was or how deeply He loved me till I saw Matthew.”

In time for Easter, Marchiano Ministries will first release Matthew in a 15th Anniversary (of its US debut) Edition, repackaged with bonus items and special features, including a 2 CD audio book, In the Footsteps of Jesus, in which Marchiano personally takes us behind the scenes of the making of Matthew and intimately shares his life-altering experience portraying Jesus.

Unto this end, Marchiano Ministries has contracted Nest Entertainment of Dallas, Texas as the exclusive distributor of Matthew to “faith-based” retailers and distributors. “We are thankful for this opportunity,” says Diana Shaw, Nest Specialty Sales Development Manager. “We are very enthusiastic about what Matthew has to offer, and believe the timing is right to partner in this.”

Marchiano himself stands amazed and humbled that God has given him this privilege, and to have the trust and partnership of both Biblica and Nest. “It is a great responsibility to be entrusted with God’s Word – with the Gospel, which is His chosen method to reveal His Son to a world that so desperately needs Him,” Bruce soberly reflects. “All these years later, not a day goes by that I don’t receive a testimony from some corner of the world about Matthew, so I’m very familiar with the work God is doing through it. And with an entirely new generation here in America that has yet to be introduced to it, I can’t wait to see what more God is planning to do through this new release!”

Marchiano’s own life was radically transformed through his experience playing Jesus in Matthew, causing him to transition away from secular acting to a speaking ministry that has taken him around the world, to African crusades and church building, to penning several books on the person of Jesus. Now, alongside this new contract with Biblica, he is currently involved in his most ambitious endeavor to date, as executive producer of another upcoming, word-for-word Gospel film, Jesus…No Greater Love. “All I ever wanted in life was to be an actor and win an Academy Award,” Marchiano muses, “but I guess the Lord had other things in mind!”


www.MarchianoMinistries.com
www.NewJesusMovie.com

Mystery Men Add Chad Riley

Nashville, TN, February 13, 2010 — The Mystery Men are proud to announce the addition of their newest member, Chad Riley. Chad hails from the keystone state of Pennsylvania and is a multiple year alumnus of the Stamps Baxter School of Music (Nashville, TN). Chad comes highly recommended by Ben Speer and Alison Durham Speer and has readily cemented his position as the newest member of The Mystery Men. With a blue-eyed soul reminiscent to the early days of southern gospel and a vocal strength not readily witnessed in recent years, he ministers with an anointing and zeal that will truly touch one’s spirit. Chad’s heritage comes from a mother and father who evangelized and pastored through his youth and continue to this day. From the age of five, his talents were apparent and have led him to his new ministry with The Mystery Men. He has already proven himself a favorite of Mystery Men fans.

Chad and his wife, Jenny, are in the process of relocating to the Nashville area where they plan to raise their son, Andrew.

The Mystery Men would like to offer our appreciation to our good friend and former lead singer, David Folenius, for his professionalism and friendship in his willingness to help us out in a pinch until the position was filled.

For more information about Chad Riley and The Mystery Men please visit www.TheMysteryMen.com. The most recent release for radio by The Mystery Men, “Come On Down To The Farm,” which has been dubbed “The Most Controversial Song in Gospel Music” by industry leaders, is available for purchase at their website

Austin's Bridge to Release New CD, Times Like These

ALBUM TIMES LIKE THESE PRODUCED BY RASCAL FLATTS’ JAY DEMARCUS AND ALREADY SELECTED BY BILLBOARD AS “BEST BETS 2010: FACES TO WATCH”

Nashville, TN (February 17, 2010) —- Dove Award winning group, Austins Bridge, is gearing up to release their highly anticipated sophomore project, Times Like These, May 4, 2010. The CD was produced by Jay DeMarcus (Rascal Flatts). At the same time, Austins Bridge has signed with Jeff Robert and Associates for booking and Patton House Entertainment for management.

“Rarely does an artist come along that is so gifted, genuine and extremely talented,” says DeMarcus. “It was an absolute joy to make this record, as not only can these guys sing their tails off, they are truly anointed. Austins Bridge has a big, bright future.”

“It was not only a privilege and an honor to work with Jay DeMarcus,” says Austins Bridge, “but it was a once in a lifetime opportunity to absorb an experience that cannot be taught in any classroom or conference.” “We went into every studio session like little sponges, ready to soak up every morsel of information we could. Jay brings not only a lot of talent to the recording process, but a lifetime of proven success as well. We can’t wait to get this project out to a listening audience and we look forward to continuing to work with Jay on future projects.”

“When all of us at Patton House Entertainment heard the new music from Austins Bridge, we knew we wanted to be part of this band’s career,” says Andrew Patton, President, Patton House Entertainment. “Not only is Austins Bridge extremely talented but the hearts of these guys really put the meaning behind the lyrics. When you combine those elements with their powerful live show….you’re talking a major hit act here.”

“We are excited to be representing Austin’s Bridge,” says Randy Humphries, Artist Representative, Jeff Roberts & Associates. “When I saw them for the first time a few years ago I thought they were an amazing band! The vocals were incredible and I thought their music would be relevant to the fans of Rascal Flatts and Keith Urban. When I first heard Times Like These, I knew Jeff Roberts & Associates had to be involved in their career and we are looking forward to great things in the future with Austin’s Bridge.”

Times Like These features the strong harmonies of Austins Bridge that spotlight Christian lyrics with a deep Country/Bluegrass sound. The first single from the project, “Mercy,” will be going for adds at Christian radio February 19th. The song is an uplifting anthem to mercy being in your life when the going gets tough. Mercy never leaves when others walk away/Mercy’s there for you so you/don’t ever have to be afraid/When you’re feeling hopeless, abandoned, and lost/Mercy pleads your case before the cross/Mercy never leaves. Band members Baird and Rivers wrote two songs for the project, “Good Times” and “Hold Onto Jesus,” with Rivers also co-writing, “Dash Between The Dates.” Jay DeMarcus lent his songwriting efforts to the CD by co-writing the title track and “Angels.” The strength of the new album has already garnered the honor of “Best Bets 2010: Faces To Watch” by Billboard magazine.

Austins Bridge broke onto the national music scene with their debut self-titled album in 2007 and the strength of the project resulted in the band winning the 2008 Dove award in the category of Bluegrass Song of the Year, “He’s In Control.” They also received two additional 2008 Dove nominations for New Artist of the Year and Country Album of the Year. Austins Bridge is also known for their powerful stage performances and their well-honed touring skills have led to bookings with the 2008 Franklin Graham Crusade, performing at Winterfest for the past three years, appearing on the world premiere of Gospel Music Channel’s Front Row Live, recorded a segment for the Live At Oak Tree series and this past November, Austins Bridge played at the grand opening of Mercy Ministries’ house in Sacramento, California. Also, the group joined the multitude of stars that participated in recording, “Come Together Now,” in support of the Haiti earthquake victims.

For more information on Austins Bridge please visit online at www.austinsbridge.com.

Men of Music Unveil Brand New, Fully-Updated Website

JACKSON, Miss. – Southern Gospel favorites the Men of Music are proud to announce the unveiling of their new, fully-updated website. The new page went live earlier and was designed by the staff of SSE Design Group, the web publishing and internet promotions division of SSE Group, Inc.

Gregory Colburn of the Men of Music said, “We are very pleased with the work that SSE has done for us on this website. It looks great and has a nice, clean look about it.”

“We have loved working with the Men of Music,” said Amy Marie Unthank of SSE Group, Inc. “It’s so exciting to see them have a nice presence on the web that matches their charisma and spirit.”

The site is an exhaustive telling of the ministry of the Men of Music. It features a biography, contact information, a photo gallery, schedules, and more. The group’s newly designed press kit will also be available for promoters and pastors to download directly from the site within the week.

To visit the newly designed Men of Music website, visit http://www.themenofmusic.com

The Men of Music announced their return to full-time touring after a three-year absence from the road last year. The Men of Music are currently booking dates and touring as a trio. Churches, promoters, and individuals interested in scheduling the Men of Music for their ministry event can call the ministry office at (615) 562-5394 or (601) 573-4602.

The group is currently preparing for the release of their new recording. More information on that will be forthcoming.

About the Men of Music
The Men of Music have recently returned full time to the Southern Gospel community after a three-year absence from the road. The group currently consists of Greg Colburn, Rodney Tyson, and Chris Walton. The group is currently preparing for the release of their first mainline recording since coming off the road.

Branson Gospel Music Convention Named a 2010 Pacesetter Nominee in SGN Music Awards

BRANSON, Mo. – After its first year as a major concert event in the Southern Gospel Community, the Branson Gospel Music Convention was honored as one of five nominees for the 2010 Pacesetter in the SGN Music Awards.

The Pacesetter Award honors individuals, companies, artists, events, and the like who raise the standard in the industry during the previous year. Past winners have included such names as the Crabb Family, Daywind Records, Booth Brothers, artist manager Kathy Hannah and last year’s winner the National Quartet Convention (in addition to many others). It is the most prestigious award handed out at the awards program.

Kelly Burton, Program Director for the Branson Gospel Music Convention, said, "For this event to be recognized after its first year is the icing on the cake for us. We're especially excited because it was an effort of our family and close friends, and we share the acknowledgment with them."

"The reward of Branson GMC has been the continual testimony of artists and audience members who were blessed and challenged by the spirit of it,” mentioned Rod Burton, co-owner of YMR Productions, LLC. “We are happy to be answering God's call and happy others have appreciated how He used Branson GMC to stir people."

The Branson Gospel Music Convention is honored to be mentioned in the same category and stand along side such names like Crossroads Music Group, Chuck Peters and the SGShowPrep, SGN Scoops Digital, and Vine Records.

The SGN Music Award nominees are chosen by the staff of SoGospelNews.com and select members of the Southern Gospel media and community. To see a complete list of nominees – visit http://www.sogospelnews.com .



The 2010 SGN Music Awards Celebration will take place on Tuesday, April 13, 2010 at River of Life Church in Smyrna, Tennessee. The event is free to the public.

The Branson Gospel Music Convention is put on by YMR Music Productions, LLC. The company announced that the 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention is to take place beginning Monday evening, June 28, through Friday, July 2, 2010 at the Branson Convention Center across from Branson Landing.

Artists already scheduled for the 2010 event include the Chuck Wagon Gang, Blackwood Quartet, HisSong, Dino, Kenny Bishop, The Melody Boys Quartet, Young Harmony, McMillan & Life, Sunday Edition, Beyond the Ashes, Hinson Revival, Stutzman Family, 2nd Generation, Rod Burton, and many more!

More information about the Branson Gospel Music Convention can be found at http://www.bransongmc.com or by calling (708) 960-0111.

More information about YMR Music Productions, LLC. can be found at http://www.ymrmp.com or by calling 708-960-0111.

About YMR Music Productions
YMR Music Productions, LLC. is a corporation formed initially for the exclusive purpose of organizing, promoting, and producing the Branson Gospel Music Convention. The production company recently started a series of concerts all around the country that supports local communities and help organization. The first Give the Gospel concert took place in November 2009.