Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Music and Ministry Meet in Branson This Week For 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention


BRANSON, Mo. – (June 28, 2010) – Fans of Gospel music from all over the nation will gather this week in Branson, Missouri for the 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention. Representing the best in Gospel music, more than 150 artists and organizations will be on hand at the annual event. Gospel artists are coming to sing from as far as California and Florida and as near as the town of Branson – ranging in age, style, and genre. Family groups, traditional quartets, contemporary, progressive country, worship, bluegrass Gospel, & more will all be represented this week.
An exciting week is planned for the event. Headlining artists include Dino, HisSong, Blackwood Quartet, Chuck Wagon Gang, Gaither Homecoming artist Mike Allen, Beyond the Ashes, Grammy Award nominee Kenny Bishop, Hinson Revival, Melody Boys Quartet, Dove Award nominated Young Harmony, McMillan & Life, Rod Burton, Sunday Edition, 2nd Generation, English Family, Jay Stone Singers, and more.
The event will also include spotlight performances from some of Branson’s favorite performers including Voices of Glory (from NBC’s America’s Got Talent), The Wissman Family, Twice Adopted, Buck Trent, George Dyer, Buckets & Boards, and Clay Cooper.
The Branson GMC has partnered with Sight and Sound Theater, Branson Tourism Center, Ozark Medieval Fortress, Branson Radio Live, Morningside and the Jim Bakker Show, CinnaRoll, Dino's Catering Divas, Veteran's Galleria, and other Branson & Ozark businesses to give its artists and guests a taste of Branson while they are in town. On a national scale, the annual convention has also partnered with child advocacy organization Compassion International.

The SGN Scoops Diamond Awards will be featured Thursday night and will include appearances by Broadway Baptist Choir of Springfield, Illinois, state senator Jack Goodman, and gospel great Gerald Crabb in addition to several of the artists featured throughout the week. This fan-voted awards show will also include a new "Publisher's Choice" award to be presented to a Branson-based gospel performer.
The event will host a Piano Jubilee Thursday afternoon and an Albert E Brumley Tribute sing-along, hosted by Al Brumley Jr., on Friday afternoon.
In honor of their service, military veterans will receive free admission to any of convention’s nine concerts.
“There’s a lot of excitement that has been building over the last few weeks as the culmination of this year’s work is revealed this week,” mentioned Kelly Burton of YMR Productions, LLC. “We always planned for this event to be different than other Gospel music conventions. We feel like God is going to do mighty things this week, and we hope that people see His hands all over it.”
This is the second year for this annual event which was just awarded the prestigious “Pacesetter Award for 2010” by the AbsolutelyGospel.com gospel music news site (formerly known as SoGospelNews.com).
A full list of artists and organizations that will be present during the event can be found at http://www.bransongmc.com .
The 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention will take place this week, June 28 through July 2 at the Branson Hilton Convention Center in Branson, Missouri. More info is available at www.bransonGMC.com. The Branson Gospel Music Convention is wholly owned by YMR Music Productions, LLC.
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.

To listen to the Branson GMC music, click here: http://www.sgmradio.com/wp/?page_id=41

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Featured Performers Announced For 11th Annual AbsolutelyGospel.com Music Fest


Southern Gospel’s Biggest Names like Gold City, The Bowling Family, Aaron Wilburn, The Freemans, The Pfeifers, The LeFevre Quartet and more to Appear!

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – (June 23, 2010) – Deon and Susan Unthank, administrators of AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com), are proud to announce the talent line-up for the 11th Annual AbsolutelyGospel.com Music Fest.

“We are always so excited about our annual Music Fest,” mentioned Deon Unthank of AbsolutelyGospel.com. “This year is no different. We’re bringing in some of our most requested acts again, as well as a lot of new faces that the crowd will love! We hope everyone can make it out this year!”

This year’s Music Fest is set to run from Monday, July 26, 2010 through Friday, July 30, 2010. The event will again be held at the River of Life Church in Smyrna, Tennessee and is absolutely free to the public.

Performers scheduled to appear at this year’s Music Fest include Gold City, The Freemans, The Bowling Family, Aaron Wilburn, Naomi & the Segos, HisSong, LeFevre Quartet, Palmetto State Quartet, The Pfeifers, Driven Quartet, Three Bridges, Freedom, Rejoice!, Sharron Kay King, Crystal River, Southern Sound, Ann Downing, Brothers Forever, The Quicks, 2nd Generation, McMillan & Life, Rod Burton, Mercy Road Quartet, and Sunday Edition.

Additional artists are still being confirmed for this year’s Music Fest. The artist listing is subject to change without notice.

As in years past, this year's convention will remain free to the public. A love offering will be taken each night.

For more information, feel free to email the site at 2010@sogospelnewsfanfestival.com . More details can be found at http://www.absolutelygospel.com .

About AbsolutelyGospel.com
AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly 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.

Joe Loaring Joins Faithful Crossings


CLERMONT, Fla. – Florida-based family group Faithful Crossings is pleased to announce the addition of Joe Loaring to the group. Joe will be singing the baritone part for the group.

Joe has been very active in ministry since rededicating his life to the Lord seven years ago. In addition to his work with Faithful Crossings, Joe works full-time at Lighthouse Ministries – a local homeless shelter.

“Joe has a great heart for ministry – and that is just the kind of person we were looking for,” mentioned Tammy Sumner of Faithful Crossings. “He’s a talented singer, and we can’t wait for our friends to hear him with us!”

Joe will be joining the group immediately. You can find out more information on him at the group’s website – http://www.faithfulcrossings.com .

Faithful Crossings will be featured on the television show Atlanta Live on Atlanta’s WATC this weekend. More information on that will be released later.

More information on Faithful Crossings can be found at their webpage – http://www.faithfulcrossings.com. You can also visit their MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/faithfulcrossings.

For booking information – call Arnie Shipp and AWS Management at (864) 981-5811.

About Faithful Crossings
Faithful Crossings is a Southern Gospel ministry based in central Florida. At the heart of the ministry is Tammy Sumner, former member of the acclaimed all-women's Southern Gospel quartet, Sweetwater Revival. Tammy is joined by her husband Curtis Sumner and children Taylor and Lauren as well as new group members Al Mercer and Lisa Nielsen.

Performers Continue To Be Added For 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention


BRANSON, Mo. – (June 23, 2010) – Excitement continues to build for the 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention which is to be held next week at the Branson Convention Center in Branson, Missouri.

Rod & Kelly Burton, owners of YMR Productions, LLC, are excited to announce the addition of Chris Hester as well as Branson favorites The Wissman Family and Twice Adopted to the performance schedule. (It was announced earlier this week that Gaither Homecoming favorite Mike Allen was added as a featured performer as well.) Gerald Crabb has also been added as a featured performer during the Diamond Awards program, which is to be held Thursday evening, July 1, 2010 during the convention.

“God has continually amazed us,” mentioned Rod Burton. “The talent that has come on board for this convention continues to amaze us. We are so excited about what God has in store for this year’s program. We hope everyone who can come out will. This is going to be an exciting year!”

The newly announced artists will be joining more the 150 additional performers for this weeklong event in Branson, Missouri. Other artists already announced who will be appearing at the convention include Dino, the Chuck Wagon Gang, Blackwood Quartet, Russ Taff, HisSong, Hinson Revival, The Williamsons (formerly The Homesteaders), Melody Boys Quartet, Kenny Bishop, Beyond the Ashes, 2nd Generation, Freedom, Sunday Edition, Rod Burton, McMillan & Life, Young Harmony, Ricky Atkinson, The English Family, Praise Incorporated, Shannon Bunch, and many more!

This is the second year for this annual event which was just awarded the prestigious “Pacesetter Award for 2010” by the AbsolutelyGospel.com gospel music news site (formerly known as SoGospelNews.com).

In addition, several high profile companies and organizations will be present during the event – including Compassion International, AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com), Sky Angel Network, Gospel Music Today, HIS Choice Music, Mansion Entertainment, Family Friendly Entertainment, Southern Spin Entertainment, SGMRadio.com, SGN Scoops Digital, and many more!

A full list of artists and organizations that will be present during the event can be found at http://www.bransongmc.com .

The 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention will take place next week, June 28 through July 2 at the Branson Hilton Convention Center in Branson, Missouri. More info is available at www.bransonGMC.com, or by calling their offices at 708-960-0111. The Branson Gospel Music Convention is wholly owned by YMR Music Productions, LLC.


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.

Southern Plainsmen Quartet Featured On SouthernGospelTimes.com


HORNBECK, La. – (June 23, 2010) – West-Central Louisiana’s Southern Plainsmen Quartet are currently featured on the popular Southern Gospel website SouthernGospelTimes.com. The Southern Plainsmen are the featured interview on the much read “And Now, Introducing…” article.

“And Now, Introducing…” is a series of articles designed to introduce upcoming or emerging artists in the Southern Gospel community to a new batch of fans. The article on The Southern Plainsmen focuses on their history as a performer and minister, their biggest spiritual and musical influences, the future of their ministry, and much more.

“We are honored to be featured on such a great website,” mentioned Marcelle Slaughter. “The folks at SouthernGospelTimes.com do a great job, and we are so excited to be a part of it!”

To read the article on the Southern Plainsmen Quartet, visit SouthernGospelTimes.com.

The Southern Plainsmen recently announced their recent partnership with humanitarian organization World Vision. The Southern Plainsmen Quartet are now artist advocates for the organization – spreading the word at concerts, churches, and various other dates that the quartet may perform at.

For more information on the Southern Plainsmen Quartet, visit their website at http://www.southernplainsmen.com/ . You can also visit the group on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Southern-Plainsmen/273186055053 .

About the Southern Plainsmen Quartet
The Southern Plainsmen Quartet was organized in May 1978 in the rolling pine-hills of West-Central Louisiana, and is an outreach of the Southern Plainsmen Ministries, Inc., a non-profit Christian organization. The group has released 20 recordings in its impressive 30 years history. The group currently consists of Marcelle Slaughter, Jordan Mothershed, Allen Doyle, Mike Burkhalter, and Aaron Allen. The group’s current release – Simply…Faith! released last year

The Harris Family Releases New Single


June 23, 2010 (PASADENA, TX) – The Harris Family has released a new single to radio through Radioactive Airplay. The song, “Don’t Be Afraid, Just Believe,” follows a string of successful songs from the group’s Rescued CD. The song, written by group member Kristen Harris Johnson, is one of two songs that this young, talented songwriter penned on this project.

Sue Harris, of the group, says that the song is always a crowd pleaser when they sing it live. “People sit up and take notice when you sing a song they can identify with. And who can’t identify with being afraid sometimes? I love it that God led Kristen to the story of Jairus and his young daughter who has just died to write a song about trusting God and not being afraid. We see a lot of songs written about trusting God, however, we don’t see a lot of songs taken from this particular story in the Bible.” Kristen adds, “Many of us struggle with fear and uncertainty in our lives, especially today in the midst of war and difficult economic times. We may not all be facing exactly what Jairus was facing on that day, but we can all identify with the feelings of fear and anxiety that Jairus must have felt.”

Sue continues, “As I read the biblical account of this story unfolding in Mark 5, I can only imagine the desperation and fear Jairus was experiencing as he fell at the feet of Jesus and asked Him to come heal his sick daughter who was near death; And then the frustration of being told that his daughter had died while Jesus stopped along the way to help a sick woman. Jesus’ response? ‘Do not be afraid, only believe’ (Mark 5:36). Knowing what Jesus said is one thing, but actually living out those words is never easy when we find ourselves facing a scary, tragic, or uncertain situation.” Kristen adds, “My prayer is that this song will serve as a reminder to us that God holds our lives and our circumstances in the palm of His hands, and we don't have anything to fear as long as we are trusting in Christ."

DJs and Radio Program Directors can download the song at www.radioactiveairplay.com. The Harris Family consists of Roger and Sue Harris, and their daughter, Kristen. They make their home in Pasadena, Texas and have been singing Southern Gospel music since 2003. For additional information about The Harris Family, you may visit their website: www.harrisfamilymusic.com, or call their ministry office at (281) 998-7665.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Mike Allen Named As Featured Performer for 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention


BRANSON, Mo. – (June 21, 2010) – The Branson Gospel Music Convention is excited to announce Gaither Homecoming favorite Mike Allen has been added to the concert lineup. Allen is a regular on the Gaither Homecoming concerts, videos, and cruises, and has a long history of gospel music with The Weatherfords, Phil Cross and Poet Voices, The Blackwoods, and more.

Rod Burton, co-owner of the Branson Gospel Music Convention said, “We’re so thrilled to add Mike to the lineup this year. His heart for ministry is matched only by that perfect bass voice. Our audiences are going to love his sweet spirit and amazing talent.”

Mike will be joining more the 150 artists for this weeklong event in Branson, Missouri. This is the second year for this annual event which was just awarded the prestigious “Pacesetter Award for 2010” by the AbsolutelyGospel.com gospel music news site (formerly known as SoGospelNews.com).

In addition, several high profile companies and organizations will be present during the event – including Compassion International, AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com), Sky Angel Network, Gospel Music Today, HIS Choice Music, Mansion Entertainment, Family Friendly Entertainment, Southern Spin Entertainment, SGMRadio.com, SGN Scoops Digital, and many more!

A full list of artists and organizations that will be present during the event can be found at http://www.bransongmc.com .

The 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention will take place next week, June 28 through July 2 at the Branson Hilton Convention Center in Branson, Missouri. More info is available at www.bransonGMC.com, or by calling their offices at 708-960-0111. The Branson Gospel Music Convention is wholly owned by YMR Music Productions, LLC.

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.

Thursday, June 17, 2010

SGM Radio Blog’s Top Ten: Sunday Edition


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!


Sunday Edition


Sunday Edition began in 1972 as a male quartet. Founder Deon Unthank now sings with his children, Chris and Amy Marie Unthank. Sunday Edition is based in Tennessee and sings across the United States. Chris and Amy Marie operate Southern Spin Entertainment, Amy Marie is a prolific songwriter and the Unthanks own the popular AbsolutelyGospel.com website.

Sunday Edition’s Top Ten by Deon Unthank


1. Please tell us the name of your latest recording and your favorite song from that CD. What is the message behind this song?
Our latest recording is a Hymns and Praise project which features 5 Hymns and 5 Praise songs. The Hymns are all pretty old and the Praise and Worship songs are all ones that any SG fan would be very comfortable with. My favorite song would be "Blessed Assurance". It's an old Hymn that has a message that still touches today, because we all need to rely on that blessed hope in Jesus and the assurance that every day He is there for us.

2. What is one group highlight from the last 12 months?
A definite highlight has been working with Glen Bates, who is a great songwriter. Glen has written two songs for us to release for radio,"He Bore A Cross" which went to # 43 on the charts, and our new release "Mercy Walks A Road". It's really exciting to know that someone has enough confidence in us as a group to invest his heart by giving us his songs.

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?
Yes, I have been on four Mexico Missions trips. I would encourage everyone who can to go on a mission trip. It will change your life.
I am not rich according to America's standards, but when I come back home from mission trips to Mexico I always feel like a rich American.
I have never failed to go on a mission trip that I didn't meet a person from that country that I could not get out of my mind. t is such a rich experience.

4. What artist are you listening to right now?
Actually I'm not listening, I have one eye on the keyboard and one eye on the TV where I'm watching "Throwdown With Bobby Flay". I love the cooking channel.

5. What was the best decade for music? Favorite artist from that decade?
For me that would be from 1962 to 1972. I had more than one favorite. The Imperials were certainly at the top of my list. I loved Jake Hess with them, but I think my favorite was the Jim Murray, Terry Blackwood, Roger Wiles, Armond Morales group. The Stamps with JD Sumner, Donnie Sumner, Jimmy Blackwood, and Jim Hill, or JD, Donnie, Jimmy, and Roy McNeil, or JD, Donnie, Ed Enoch, Bill Baize, and Ed Wideman, and the Statesmen with Rosie, Jack, Doyle, and Big Chief. That era of SGM is my favorite. Again I can't settle on just one Artist. My favorites would be Jack Toney and Roy McNeil.

6. If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
A man with my looks and my build does not need a superpower..... LOL

7. What would be your fantasy venue, the one stage in the world where you would like to sing?
This one is easy. If I could sing anywhere in the world I would like to sing at the Whitehouse. To sing before the President of the United States, no matter the party would be phenomenal. Just to think that you would have the chance to minister and touch the heart of the most powerful man in the world would be awesome.

8. Who is your most favorite Bible person/character?
Being left-handed, I like Gideon, because he went to war with a left-handed army.

9. What is your favorite thing to shop for?
I guess this will show how weird I am, but I love to grocery shop. My wife just doesn't understand how I can take so long at the grocery store. But when you are reading labels and comparing prices, it's way to get involved in shopping. The bad thing is when I go to the grocery store for something, come home with 5 bags of stuff and still don't have what I went there for.

10. Name a character trait or fruit of the spirit you would really like to develop in your life.
"Goodness". I would like to have more goodness in my life that I could see the hurting people around me. I'm afraid that I live my life so fast paced that
I often miss the troubles that people around me are having.

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

ReWind Wednesdays: Jerry Bennett: Singing and Serving at The Bridge, Nashville


Is Southern Gospel all about the stage, lights, big hair and entertaining singers? Originally from the State of Pennsylvania, singer-songwriter Jerry Bennett has discovered another dimension to his music that has changed his life. Always willing to go wherever he is led, since July of 2005, Jerry has found that path leading to Jefferson Street Bridge and the homeless of Nashville, Tennessee. A life full of twists and turns, this latest venture is just another step along the way.

Jerry grew up in the church and learned to play the piano and bass guitar. He formed a quartet in 1979, which went on to win talent contests and enabled him to share the stage with groups such as the Payne Family and the Greenes. Beginning a solo career in 1994, he didn’t start to travel extensively until 2000, becoming full-time in 2004. His time in Southern Gospel has been highlighted by stints with Donnie Seabolt (Blue Ridge Quartet), Laverne Tripp, and the Freemans. Jerry’s songwriting credits include “My God Forgets” which he co-wrote with April Nye. This song was released by the Kingsmen in 1995, did well on the charts and garnered many award nominations.

Currently residing near Nashville, Jerry’s full-time solo career has taken him across the United States, where he presents his energetic, country-style original tunes as well as Southern Gospel standards and classic hymns. He cites the Hinsons, Hemphills, Goodmans and Rambos as his musical influences, and is excited now to be working with the Hemphills in a project that is reaching people in a practical way. Jerry talked to Sgmradio recently about this new venture:

“I met Joel and LaBreeska this past summer of 2005 in Pennsylvania. They had just lost their singer and were traveling as the duo. They have become like a family to me. These people are the “real thing”; I guess just like Coca Cola, ha ha. I like being with people who are genuine, and I can honestly say Joel and LaBreeska are genuine. As we were having fellowship and eating after the program, Joel invited me to come downtown Nashville under the Jefferson Street Bridge to minister with them to the homeless. My heart has always been to do ministry, and I was all for it. This was right down my alley. I believe that true ministry is getting the opportunity to give of yourself and knowing that nothing is going to be returned.”

This has developed into a weekly ministry for Jerry that sees this group of people distributing food, clothing, and bibles as well as the Word through music and preaching. They arrive on a Tuesday night, set up equipment and tables, and share what they have with whoever will listen. Often they have special guests who drop in, such as Laverne and Edith Tripp, Eric Hinson, Donny and Reba Rambo McGuire and Stella Parton. Sometimes those in their audience will come up and participate as well.

“Candy (Hemphill-Christmas) has rented a warehouse where we are receiving clothes, coats, blankets and other articles that the homeless need. Candy also has a box truck that goes to the Jefferson Street Bridge each Tuesday night. We don’t miss a week. We set up chairs, crank up generators to run sound and lights, and tables to set up for serving food and then later for giving out clothes… Every service people are coming to the altar for prayer. Yes we still see them struggle with alcohol and drug addictions, but we don’t give up, some are getting genuine deliverance.”

Jerry continues, “I had to laugh one night when Candy performed, a homeless guy came up to Candy and said, ‘You are good enough to cut a record’. These people for the most part have no idea of the great talent that has been blessing thousands across this country are coming just to bless them each week under the bridge, and that is so awesome.”

Other practical help is offered from time to time, as different churches get involved and members offer jobs and housing. Not everyone responds to these offers, but they still keep pressing on. “Although it breaks my heart to not see everyone press through his or her situation I was reminded of the 10 lepers in the bible. Jesus healed them all, but only one came to return thanks. God has called me to minister. That night God spoke to me saying if I took the time for the one, that I would also find myself in situations with thousands as Jesus ministered. I truly believe Jesus set the precepts of what it is to be an Ambassador of the Gospel.”

Jerry has been involved in prison ministry as well for quite awhile, arranging his schedule to accommodate this and asking promoters to connect him to community facilities in the places he is booked for concerts. Jerry explains what compels him: “To let these guys know there is hope and to understand God is their source of strength and I’m there because I love them as well as letting them know God loves them.”

“God is teaching me to continue to see the needs of other people, administer to their hurts. Get Jerry Bennett out of the way. I still struggle with the flesh, but I face that demon each day I wake up and say Jerry it’s not about you. God has taught me to be appreciative of the little things we take for granted. My health I learned from last year was something I took for granted. Now when I see people ill, it’s compassion that drives me. See compassion is not an emotion, but compassion is an action. You can feel sorry for someone, and that is not compassion, but when you do something about their situation and get involved, to me that is compassion.”

The future looks busy for this singer. Jerry is looking forward to the New Year, and new challenges. “I pray for the Lord to help me find favor with men/pastors, to walk through every door that God opens for me. A small door can open a bigger door. I pray for God to continue to anoint my mind with new ideas to write songs, with a profound message to move people on a huge scale, not for Jerry Bennett but for God.”

Be sure to visit Jerry’s website at www.jerrybennett.com.

By Lorraine Walker
First published January 2006 www.sgmradio.com - used by permission

RANDALL CRAWFORD BACK WITH THE KINGSMEN



Owner/manager Ray Dean Reese announced today that Randy Crawford is re-joining the ministry of the Kingsmen Quartet,.. effective immediately. According to PR information Randy will be filling the baritone/lead position for the group. Reese says: "Many will remember Randy from his past tenure with the Kingsmen Quartet. His unique vocal stylings can be heard on the 2002 top ten song, 'Justified'." Randy says he looks forward to seeing his many friends and fans across America as he embarks on this new chapter in his life.

Most recently Crawford sang with Brian Free & Assurance.

visit www.kingsmenquartet.com

(News courtesy of SG Reporter News Updates)

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Rob Patz on Gospel Music Today


Rob Patz was interviewed by our good friends Ken & Jean Grady at Gospel Music Today. Click here for the video, featured on their site this week! Click here to watch: http://www.gospelmusictoday.com/

Thursday, June 10, 2010

SGM Radio Blog’s Top Ten: Heaven Bound Souljahz of Christ




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

Heaven Bound Souljahz of Christ

Our group is called Heaven Bound Souljahz of Christ, or HBSC for short. We do what we like to call testimony rap, uplifting Christ and testifying about the things we’ve made it through in life and experienced. Group members are Yung swayvor, he raps and sings; Lil Sargent, singer/ rapper; and myself. I go by the name T.M.A.C. TELL ME ABOUT CHRIST HARRIS. I write rap and sing.

HBSC’s Top Ten by TMAC

1. Please tell us the name of your latest recording and your favorite song from that CD. What is the message behind this song?
Our latest recording is called In Jesus’ Name. My favorite song from the cd is Clean as a Christian. The message in this song is that no matter where you are from, we are all one in Christ Who has washed us all clean; hence the name Clean as a Christian.

2. What is one group highlight from the last 12 months?
One highlight for HBSC in the last 12 months I would have to say is our efforts to stop the violence in our city, Chattanooga, Tennessee. We are organizing a movement called Chattanooga Street Peace, asking local artists to come together and compile a mixtape cd and to be a part of a Stop The Violence concert in mid Summer 2010.

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?
I haven’t been on a mission trip and I definitely would love to go. I would choose Africa. I think everybody wants to go to Africa to see the motherland. I recently was blessed to meet some Pastors from Africa and they asked me to send them some copies of my cd and I did, so that was cool.

4. What was the best decade for music? Favorite artist from that decade?
As a 29. almost 30 year old. I have to say the 90’s because rap music started to evolve. My favorite artist from that decade was M.C. Hammer.

5. If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
If I could have any superpower I would want healing hands, that anytime I touched someone dead or sick they would recover. You know the bible speaks about that power.

6. What would be your fantasy venue, the one stage in the world where you would like to sing?
My fantasy venue would be on stage in front of the whole world all at once, and everybody praising God together, in Peace; every nation.

7. Who is your favorite Christian author/teacher/evangelist?
My favorite Teacher is Pastor Kevin L. Adams OBC from Chatt, Tn. He teaches and you can absorb what he reads or breaks down from the bible. God is truly using that man for his will.

8. Who is your most favorite Bible person/character?
My most favorite bible person, you already know - Jesus the true and living King, my Saviour, My all.

9. What is your favorite Bible verse?
My favorite bible verse is John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son.
It is my favorite simply because I don’t know anybody in the world or otherwise including me who would give up their Son for some people, excuse my ebonics, who ain’t right and ain’t trying to be right. I wouldn’t have given my son up; nope, not me. So thank you God.

10. Name a character trait or fruit of the spirit you would really like to develop in your life.
The character trait or fruit of the spirit I’ve been really focusing on in 2010 is Peace. Jesus is known as the Prince of Peace and I am a Christ follower so I am working on having Peace with all men and God and promoting peace in my community, because here lately we have had a lot of shootings and killings in Chattanooga, TN.

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

2nd Generation Announces Departure of Jimmy Hoskins


OAK GROVE, Ark. – (June 8, 2010) – Diamond Award nominated trio 2nd Generation regretfully announces the departure of group member Jimmy Hoskins from the group. Jimmy has been an integral part of the ministry of 2nd Generation for over three years.

"After much prayer and consideration, it is my belief that God is calling my wife and I in a different direction in pursuit of a family music ministry,” said Jimmy. “We have been so very blessed to be able to have been a part of this incredible group for the last three years, and we have been a witness to a mighty move of God in our personal lives as well as in the altars. I have nothing but the best wishes for 2nd Generation and am praying that God continue to pour out His blessings in their ministry as well as guide and lead our family in the direction He has purposed for us."

Brenda Denney of 2nd Generation said, “We know that our ministry has been extremely blessed to be able to utilize a talent like Jimmy for the last three years. Elaine and I wish Jimmy and his wife Sharon the absolute best in this new family music ministry! We know that God will continue to use them in a mighty way for His kingdom! We will miss our ‘Jimmy Jam’!”

“We are excited for what God has done and what He is doing in 2nd Generation Ministries,” continued 2nd Generation’s Elaine Parks. “We are about ministry! We know that we have been called for ‘such a time as this,’ and we know that He has someone already picked out to join 2nd Generation.”

Jimmy will stay with 2nd Generation through the months of June and July or until a replacement is found in those months. The group is still planning to record their follow-up to the breakthrough recording I See a City later this year.

2nd Generation is currently reviewing resumes and CDs for the position. Those interested in auditiong for the position can email Brenda Denney at secondg@yahoo.com or call (913) 710-5227.

Fans are encouraged to be listening for 2nd Generation’s new single, “I’ll Not Fear the Crossing,” at Southern Gospel radio.

For more information on 2nd Generation – visit http://www.2ndgenerationministries.com.

You can also find out more information about the group on their MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/2generation. The group’s ShoutLife can be found at http://www.shoutlife.com/2ndgeneration.

About 2nd Generation
2nd Generation is based out of the Oak Grove, Arkansas. 2nd Generation has appeared at churches, state fairs, Singing in the Sun, Trinity Broadcasting Network, the Jim Bakker Show, Branson Gospel Music Convention, and many other events. The group’s current project, their sophomore album I See a City, has spawned off three hit singles including the #1 Fan Favorite songs “Feel the Joy” and “The Blood Covered It All.”

Heavens Highway Reaches Booking Agreement with Rivergate Talent Agency


NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Powerful Counry/Southern Gospel group Heavens Highway is excited to announce a recent partnership that will assist the group in the area of booking and appearances. The popular group signed a booking agreement with Bonnie White and the Rivergate Talent Agency.

Bonnie White opened the doors of Rivergate Talent Agency in 1993. Since entering the gospel music industry, Bonnie has made a lot of friends all over the world. Her down home friendly voice personifies her warm personality. She is always eager to work with churches, promoters, fairs, and other venues to fulfill talent needs at a reasonable price. Bonnie's goal for Rivergate Talent Agency is to further the Gospel throughout the world with song through the ministry of Christian artists. Other artists with the Rivergate Talent Agency include the Dixie Echoes, Down East Boys, Gann Family, Four Fold, and others.

“We are very excited about working with Bonnie White,” mentioned David Timms of Heavens Highway. “She is a class act and works very hard for her artists! We know that this is going to be a fantastic partnership for our ministry!”

For more information on the Rivergate Talent Agency – visit http://www.rivergatetalent.com .

Heavens Highway has been making their mark at Southern Gospel radio. Fresh on the heels of scoring their first Singing News Top 40 hit, Heavens Highway recently released their new single to Southern Gospel radio.

The single, titled “When God Makes a Promise,” was released to Southern Gospel radio earlier through both Spin-N-Motion Promotions and Patterson Promotions. The new single can be found on Spin-N-Motion Radio Promotions March 2010 disc and Patterson Promotions Compilation, Vol. 1. This song was penned by Dove Award-winning songwriter Tina Sadler.

“When God Makes a Promise” is the follow-up single to “Longing to Go” – the group’s first Singing News Top 40 hit. The song spent several months on the chart before peaking at #34. In addition, the song was a regular fixture on the AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) Top 40 Chart, SouthernGospelTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart, and other Southern Gospel radio reports.

Both “When God Makes a Promise” and “Longing to Go” are on Heavens Highway’s latest recording – Deep Roots.

For more information on Heavens Highway, visit their website at http://www.heavenshighwaymusic.com . You can also visit the band on MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/heavenshighwaygospel .

About Heavens Highway
Heavens Highway is one of the most powerful Country/Southern Gospel Groups in North Mississippi. Heavens Highway ministers to literally thousands each year in churches and benefits. For over seven years, their primary goal is to see lost souls saved and the lonely, hungry and misguided people of this world find peace in the Lord Jesus Christ. Members of Heavens Highway consist of Sharon Brown, Marty Rock, David Timms, Becky Justice and Jerry Taylor on rhythm guitar.

Additional Performers and Special Events Named for 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention


BRANSON, Mo. – (June 7, 2010) – Additional performers and special events continue to be planned for the 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention which returns to Branson, Missouri this month. Gospel music enthusiasts and fans from all across the country will gather this month to celebrate Gospel music as excitement continues to grow for the event!

In addition to the already planned Diamond Awards – the Branson Gospel Music Convention will host a special concert featuring many of the brightest keyboardists in the Southern Gospel community. This “Piano Jubilee” will be hosted by award-winning pianist Zack Swain. The “Zack Swain and Friends Piano Jubilee” will take place on Thursday, July 1, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. during the daily matinee concert.

Also, a special All-Star Choir will gather on Friday afternoon, July 2, 2010 for a special tribute to Albert E. Brumley. That event will also take place during the matinee concert.

YMR Music Productions recently announced many of the headling performers for the 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Convention – including names like Russ Taff, Blackwood Quartet, Chuck Wagon Gang, Kenny Bishop, Dino, HisSong, Young Harmony, Ricky Atkinson, and others. Rod & Kelly Burton, of YMR Productions, LLC, are also proud to announce the addition of many new names to the performance roster – including, but not limited to, Dan Keeton & The Keetons, Freedom, Twice Adopted, and The Williamsons (formerly known as The Homesteaders).

In addition, several high profile companies and organizations will be present during the event – including Compassion International, AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com), Sky Angel Network, Gospel Music Today, HIS Choice Music, Mansion Entertainment, Family Friendly Entertainment, Southern Spin Entertainment, SGMRadio.com, SGN Scoops Digital, and many more!

“It’s so amazing to see how God works in this convention,” mentioned Rod Burton. “New opportunities present themselves everyday, and we’re so excited to see where the Lord continues to take this event!”

A full list of artists and organizations that will be present during the event can be found at http://www.bransongmc.com .

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.

Cross and Crown Music Signs Southern Salvation

Cross and Crown Music has a rich heritage in Gospel music, working with a long list of Gospels greatest artists. Southern Salvation, the newest addition to their family, has its own rich heritage to use as a foundation on their path to excellence. The name Hess has long been associated with musical excellence and ground breaking groups in Southern Gospel music. Steve Hess, nephew of legendary Hall of Famer Jake Hess, and the rest of Southern Salvation are showing that this rich tradition will continue. Joining Steve are Sean Link and Judd Suker.
VP of Artist Relations Brian Beatty said “Their music has its own unique style. They are authentic Christians who allow their faith and love for God to shine through their music. They are excellent musically and also spiritually relevant. We are thrilled to have them aboard and know that God will do great things through their ministry.”
To learn more about Southern Salvation, go to
www.southernsalvation.com or check them out at www.crossandcrownmusic.com

Friday, June 4, 2010

SGM Radio Blog’s Top Ten: Tara Jackson


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!

Tara Jackson
My name is Tara Jackson, and I currently reside in Nashville (or Nashvegas!), TN. I started out singing in church at the age of 5, and didn’t stop. I’ve been traveling and singing full-time since 2006, and have sung in Russia, Canada, and England!


Tara Jackson’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?
Tara Jackson, Tara Jackson
In Christ Alone – This song serves as a constant reminder that my hope, your hope, our hope, lies with Christ. He took everything on so that we could live and have life more abundant!

2. What is one group highlight from the last 12 months?
Having the opportunity to give my first sermonette at my Dad’s church in Thomasville, NC. I was asked to be the special guest speaker and singer for their Baptist Women’s Day. Pretty humbling and a gratifying experience!

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?
Yes, I have. I went to Sochi & Moscow in Russia with a music missions team. But if asked, I would gladly go minister to the people of Hawaii. J

4. What artist are you listening to right now?
Depends on the day. My musical taste is extremely varied, so it includes a LOT of different music. But in my CD player right now is Kelly Clarkson’s new album.

5. Brush with greatness…who have you met that you couldn’t wait to tell your friends and family about?
Nicole Kidman – She and I share a love for something here in Nashville, but if I told you, I’d have to kill you. J

6. If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Fly. I love feeling the wind in my face – minus the bugs.

7. What would be your fantasy venue, the one stage in the world where you would like to sing?
Royal Albert Hall in London, England or the Ryman Auditorium

8. Who is your most favorite Bible person/character?
Esther – When faced with possible death and losing everything and everyone she loves, instead of caving in to self-pity and sorrow, she trusted God and his wisdom to take care of it all. She stepped out in faith and in turn, proved God’s faithfulness.

9. What is your favorite Bible verse?
Psalm 37:4 – “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.”

10. What is your favorite thing to shop for?
Yarn! I know it sounds crazy, but my crochet hobby has me hunting all the time for new yarn! J

Thursday, June 3, 2010

HisSong To Host 9th Annual Homecoming This Weekend


NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Dove Award-nominated trio HisSong will be celebrating nine years of full-time ministry this weekend. The group will be hosting their 9th Annual Homecoming on Saturday, June 5, 2010.

The event will take place at Lifepoint Church (501 Legacy Drive) in Smyrna, Tennessee at will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. (doors open at 5:00 p.m.). In addition to a performance from HisSong, the group will host multi-award winning group The Perrys. Promoter Bill Bailey will be serving as the special guest emcee for the event as well.

HisSong owner/manager Dennis Humphries says, “We are so excited about this concert, and we hope everyone will be with us Saturday, June 5. It’s going to be a great night of Gospel Music. We are also excited to have Solid Gospel a part of this year’s concert by giving FREE Rewards Points.”

For more info go to SolidGospel.com and click on the HisSong banner to find out more information regarding Solid Gospel’s Reward Points system. HisSong will also be live on Solid Gospel Friday, June 4, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. CST. The group will be discussing the event with Solid Gospel DJ Greg Hutchins.

HisSong’s current single, “What a Difference a Day Makes,” has already had a significant run at Southern Gospel radio. The song recently became the trio’s second consecutive Top 20 hit on the Singing News Top 80 Chart from their sophomore Vine Records release Journey Through the Sky. The song has also been a regular fixture on several other industry related charts such as the AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) Top 40 Weekly Chart, Christian Voice Magazine Top 100, and SouthernGospelTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart.

HisSong has had a strong run in the early part of 2010. The trio received three nominations in the SGN Music Awards – including Album of the Year for their critically acclaimed Journey Through the Sky album. That album also received a nomination for Favorite Album in the SGM FanFair Awards. It was also recently announced that Journey Through the Sky has been nominated for Favorite Album in the upcoming Diamond Awards which are to be held at the Branson Gospel Music Convention this June.

To order HisSong’s new project, Journey Through the Sky, visit their website at http://www.hissongmusic.com . More information on ordering the disc can be found at their website.

HisSong is booked through the Adoration Agency. For more information on how to book the popular trio, log on to http://www.adorationagency.com or call (910) 426-1931.

HisSong also has a weekly online newsletter which gives fans of the group information on the ministry and much more.

More information on HisSong can be found at http://www.hissongmusic.com. Fans are encouraged to visit the group’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/hissongministries

Dove Brothers Offering Sneak-Peak of New Recording – Unshakeable


2010 Unshakeable Tour Coming to a City Near You
BLADENBORO, N.C. – (June 3, 2010) – Multi-award winning quartet the Dove Brothers have made their brand new Sonlite Records release available in streaming audio on the group’s website. The group is also preparing to hit the road on their 2010 Unshakeable Tour.

The new release, titled Unshakeable, has a release date scheduled for the end of July and will be available all over the country at Christian retail then. The new release will be showcased on the quartet’s website from now until the release of the highly anticipated recording. The Dove Brothers are also opening a poll to find out fans’ favorite tracks from the album. The favored track from the fans will be the group’s first single from the release.

McCray Dove said, “We are so excited about this new project and the songs that we will perform on this new tour. We are getting ready and getting geared up for the launch of the new recording as well as performing these great songs. We hope you will enjoy what we have worked hard at giving you on the Unshakeable project. We look forward to coming to a city near you, and you having a blast at our concerts.”

For more information on the new release and to hear the project, visit the Dove Brothers’ website.

The Dove Brothers’ current single, “Hold On,” has been doing well at Southern Gospel radio. The song is currently charting on all major Southern Gospel charts including the Singing News Magazine Top 80 (#2) and AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) Top 40 Weekly Chart (#1 for three consecutive weeks).

More information on the Dove Brothers can be found at http://dovebrothersquartet.com

About the Dove Brothers
Voted Favorite Male Quartet of The Year by the Southern Gospel Music Association and the Singing News Fan Awards, the Dove Brothers’ high energy presentation and progressive arrangements reflect a tangible link to the good old days of gospel music. Their peers regard them as a class act representing the industry with dignity and respect. Their latest recording for Sonlite Records is entitled Hold On and spawned off the #1 hit “Hold On.”

Brothers Forever Kick of 2010 “The Journey” Summer Tour!


Group To Hit 25 Cities in 8 States Over Next Two Months

CHURCH HILL, Tenn. – Popular trio Brothers Forever kicked off their 2010 “The Journey” Summer Tour this past weekend in Youngstown, Ohio.

During “The Journey” Summer Tour, Brothers Forever will visit North Carolina, Texas, New Mexico, California, Idaho, Tennessee, Kentucky, and for the first time ever, Montana from now until August 8, 2010 – the final date of the tour.

Curtis Hagy of Brothers Forever said, “God has richly blessed this ministry over the last couple of years. Each time we embark on a new tour, God surprises us in new and exciting ways. We’ve already seen 79 souls won to the kingdom this year, and we are so excited to see what God does over the next couple of months!”

“This is such a great time for our ministry,” mentioned Gary Ballew of Brothers Forever. “We are anticipating so many great things! We encourage everyone to come out that can!”

To find out if Brothers Forever will be in a town near you, visit the group’s website at http://www.brothersforever.net.

Brothers Forever will release their sixth single from the critically acclaimed release Sheltered this month. “Whenever I Speak His Name” (written by Russ and Tori Taff) will be released to radio through Millennium Music Group.

Brothers Forever was recently greeted with news last month that their last single has become the group’s latest Top 40 hit. The group’s fan-favorite hit song “Be Alright,” debuted on the AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) Top 40 Weekly Chart at #40. The song rose to #31 on this week’s issue of the industry’s most watched weekly chart.

Brothers Forever are currently booking dates for their upcoming
Fall 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.

2nd Generation’s “I’ll Not Fear the Crossing” Impacts Radio This Week!


OAK GROVE, Ark. – (June 2, 2010) – Diamond Award nominated trio 2nd Generation continues to make their impact at Southern Gospel radio. This week, the group’s new single, “I’ll Not Fear the Crossing,” will hit program director’s desks.

“We are so excited about releasing ‘I’ll Not Fear the Crossing’ to Southern Gospel radio,” mentioned Elaine Parks of 2nd Generation. “This song always goes over very well in live settings, and we believe that radio will love this song!”

“I’ll Not Fear the Crossing” is the fourth single from the group’s breakthrough recording I See a City. The song was penned by Dove Award-winning songwriter Gerald Crabb. The song was released this month through Rhonda Thompson Promotions and is the follow-up to the AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) Top 20 smash hit “The Blood Covered It All.”

Chris Unthank, program director for the award-winning SouthernSpinRadio.com said, “2nd Generation has remained a hit with our listeners since their first single a couple years ago. ‘I’ll Not Fear the Crossing’ is an immediate add for us. This group knows how to pick the right songs!”

Fans continue to respond to the music of 2nd Generation on Southern Gospel radio. The group’s last single, “The Blood Covered It All,” recently reached the #1 spot on the popular SouthernGospelTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart. “The Blood Covered It All” is the second single from the popular trio to reach the top spot. Last year, the group saw “Feel the Joy” take the #1 spot as well. In addition to the SouthernGospelTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart, that single from the group charted on the Singing News Top 80 (#56) and AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) Top 40 Weekly Chart (#14).

2nd Generation was recently greeted with news that they have received their first Diamond Award nomination. The nominees were announced last month in the May 2010 issue of SGN Scoops Digital, and 2nd Generation was nominated for the Sunrise Award. The Sunrise Award honors up and coming artists in the Gospel music community.

The group is currently preparing to enter the studio to record their third album. More information on that process will be released at a later date.

For more information on 2nd Generation – visit http://www.2ndgenerationministries.com.

You can also find out more information about the group on their MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/2generation. The group’s ShoutLife can be found at http://www.shoutlife.com/2ndgeneration.

About 2nd Generation
2nd Generation is based out of the Oak Grove, Arkansas. 2nd Generation has appeared at churches, state fairs, Singing in the Sun, Trinity Broadcasting Network, the Jim Bakker Show, Branson Gospel Music Convention, and many other events. The group’s current project, their sophomore album I See a City, has spawned off three hit singles including the #1 Fan Favorite songs “Feel the Joy” and “The Blood Covered It All.”

David Hill Trio Launches New Website


RIDGEVILLE, S.C. – (June 3, 2010) – Gospel music group the David Hill Trio is pleased to announce the unveiling of their new, fully-updated webpage. The new page went live earlier and was designed by David Hill.

David Hill of the David Hill Trio said, “We are really excited about how our website looks and the direction that we went with it! We invite everyone to stop by and take a look”

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

To visit the newly designed David Hill Trio website, visit http://www.thedavidhilltrio.com.

The trio was recently in the studio finishing vocals for their new mainline release. The new project, titled Things We Believe, will be the second project for the trio with Gospel Heritage Records, a division of Lamp Music Group.

The new album is being produced by David Hill and Jason Clark (The Nelons). The recording features some of the industry’s most prominent session musicians including Danny Crawford, Jeremy Medkiff, Jason Clark, and Scott Meeder. Tracks were recorded this past August.

The debut single will be released later this year. Things We Believe has a tentative release date of this Summer. More information will be released at a later date.

About the David Hill Trio
David Hill is no stranger to Gospel music. This former pastor has been a part of such notable groups as Gold City, The Nelons, and The Perrys before branching out and forming the David Hill Trio. He is joined by his wife Amanda Hill and family friend Stephanie Lindsey in the trio. Strong vocals, tight harmonies, and songs with substance are things that the David Hill Trio possess. Take those qualities and combine them with compassion, conviction, a love to worship, and a passion to minister, and you will understand why it has been said that the David Hill Trio is “from the local church, for the local church”.

Rod Burton Partners with Compassion International


HOMEWOOD, Ill. – (June 3, 2010) – Popular soloist Rod Burton recently partnered with Compassion International – a ministry designed to benefit children in poverty stricken nations.

Compassion International is an evangelical Christian child development ministry dedicated to helping children in need around the world. Compassion's programs help release children from poverty in Jesus' name and enable them to become responsible, fulfilled adults.

Compassion equips children for the future by providing for their core needs - spiritual, physical, economic and social. By working with the local church, Compassion's program offers educational opportunities, health care and health-related instruction, supplemental nutrition, if needed, life-skills training and opportunities to hear about and respond to the gospel.

“Compassion International was an easy organization for us to partner with,” mentioned Rod Burton. “We believe in this organization and what they are doing around the world. We look forward to working with them for a very long time.”

Rod and his wife Kelly will be traveling to Columbia this August with Compassion International to meet their sponsored child Jhordan.

“We are so excited about meeting Jhordan,” said Rod. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and we can’t thank Compassion enough for allowing us this chance.”

To find out more information on Compassion International, visit http://www.compassion.com.

Rod recently announced the release of his debut recording for New Hope Music Productions – The Difference. The Difference was produced by Grammy-winning engineer Adrian Payne and co-produced by Rod’s longtime friend and talented session musician Jason Webb. This recording is the first release for the newly formed New Hope Music Productions – a recording company opened by Burton and Darrell Webb earlier this year.

The Difference is now available to purchase online or at live events. For more information on the new recording, visit http://www.rodburtonmusic.com .

Fans are encouraged to visit Rod’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/rodburtonmusicinc. Rod’s ShoutLife can be found at http://www.shoutlife.com/rodburtonmusic.

About Rod Burton
Rod Burton is one of Southern Gospel’s most popular soloists. Described by family and friends as an interesting cross between big city businessman and down-home country boy, Rod is winning over fans all across the country. His current single is the Singing News Top 80 hit “Take a Stand.”

Russ Taff Added as Featured Performer at Branson Gospel Music Convention


BRANSON, Mo. – (June 3, 2010) – Excitement continues to build for the 2nd Annual Branson Gospel Music Covention which returns to Branson, Missouri this month. Rod and Kelly Burton of YMR Productions, LLC are excited to announce the addition of Grammy and Dove Award winning soloist Russ Taff to the event’s growing list of performers.

Russ Taff's music has won him not only a wide audience and critical acclaim, but a total of five Grammy Awards and nine Gospel Music Association Dove Awards. He has been hailed by Billboard Magazine as "the single most electrifying voice in Christian music."

“We are so excited about having Russ participate in this year’s Branson GMC,” mentioned Rod Burton of YMR Productions, LLC. “Russ and his wife Tori have become great friends of mine and Kelly’s, and we are humbled to see him support this event! We know that his passion and talent are going to add a lot to our program this year!”

Russ Taff joins the growing list of performers that have already been announced. The following artists are scheduled to make first-time appearances during the week long event as well: Dino, HisSong, Melody Boys, Ricky Atkinson, Mystery Men Quartet, The Northmen, Buddy Liles, and the newly-formed Freedom (featuring John Rulapaugh and Josh Garner).

YMR Productions, LLC also announced the return of many of the most requested artists from the 2009 event including (but not limited to) the Chuck Wagon Gang, Blackwood Quartet, Kenny Bishop, Young Harmony, Beyond the Ashes, Shannon Bunch, Wendy Word + forgiven, Eric Hinson and Hinson Revival (which began at the 2009 event), McMillan & Life, English Family, Sunday Edition, 2nd Generation, The Roarks, and Ron Brewer.

In addition, several high profile companies and organizations will be present during the event – including Compassion International, AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com), Sky Angel Network, Gospel Music Today, HIS Choice Music, Mansion Entertainment, Family Friendly Entertainment, Southern Spin Entertainment, SGMRadio.com, SGN Scoops Digital, and many more!

A full list of artists and organizations that will be present during the event can be found at http://www.bransongmc.com .

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.

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

ReWind Wednesdays: Randy Miller


Randy Miller: Snippa Creek Studio’s Creative Captain

The Kingsmen Quartet from Asheville, North Carolina have had many gifted musicians pass through their ranks, like Anthony Burger, Gary Dillard, Tim Surrett, and Andrew Ishee. One of these talented men, Randy Miller, who graced the stage for several years as ‘utility player’ and vocalist, has also become one of southern gospel’s most sought-after studio players for his harp and dobro work. Recently, Randy combined his musical and production skills, and created a place where he could record his own projects in the woods of Eastern Alabama. Snippa Creek Studio was born.

Snippa Creek Studio rests on the bank of Osanippa Creek near Valley, Alabama. Not far from Atlanta, Georgia, this area surrounding Lake Harding is a popular tourist destination for travelers looking to escape from the city. Valley is home to Randy, and his friends and relatives are scattered throughout the town and countryside. It’s a quiet, beautiful place, inspiring creativity in those that come to record at Snippa Creek. Sgmradio caught up with Randy for a few minutes and talked to him about this fresh venture.

“I opened the studio up around 2004. I’d been working a lot and doing albums in Nashville, TN, and came to realize that it costs a lot to cut in Nashville. Once you pay the Union Dues and the Health and Welfare and Cartage and all that good stuff, you are adding a lot of money to a project. I record a lot, probably a couple of projects a year, and … I was thinking I could build my own studio and save a lot residually, because I’m planning on doing this for quite a while.”

“The studio was built just for me initially, to do my albums. Now I’m taking on other clients, other people. It was never really a dream of mine in the past, I haven’t always thought, “I’m going to go out and build a studio, and this is what I want to do.” I’ve always worked at [studios] and I just did harp work and guitar work, being a studio musician. But you know it’s one of those things that God allows you to have and puts in your lap and I’ve been blessed to be able to have one.”

Randy records many tracks for other studios, as well as albums for his own clients. He says that what separates Snippa Creek Studio from other places is not just the great location: “I will be in on all the albums. I’ve produced a lot in the past and so you’re going to have me producing tracks along with some of the best musicians in the industry, and not just the southern gospel industry. I have people that play on a lot of big budget albums. People you’d hear on a lot of these albums that are $100-200,000 projects.” Randy is proud of the quality of the studio, and explains some of the technical advantages as well.

“I’ve got a lot of vintage analog equipment that gives the songs and music a really big sound. The studio, I built it for me, and I really like the commercial sound. A lot of people, they’ll turn on the radio to a secular radio station and say, ‘What is that sound, why does it sound so big, and our music doesn’t sound the same?’ Well, a lot of it has to do with the equipment and transformers and big tubes and things that a lot of the new digital stuff does not offer.”

“Now I do have the digital stuff that I record through the analog here into the digital part. So I’ve got a lot of Neve, API, SSL, Trident console…a lot of this, I’m speaking Greek to a lot of people out there, but if you’ve ever been in the studio and you’ve worked a lot, a lot of people know these names. The cost is a good bit more significant, but the end result is that you can hear a huge difference. Like I said, I built this studio to do my projects with, and since I like the sound of all that, the people that come in here reap the benefits.” As Randy is engineering and producing as well, a recording package includes his production expertise, saving the client a huge extra expense.

For many of us the recording process is shrouded in mystery, so we asked Randy to take us through a typical project. Most of Randy’s clients are word-of-mouth, and often if they like what they hear on Randy’s projects they’ll contact him to make arrangements to record at Snippa Creek. Once the contract is made, the artist sends in a “work tape”; a CD or cassette of the material they are planning to record. The musicians meet to ‘chart’ the songs, using the “Nashville Numbering System”, similar to writing out chord charts.

“We get together and while we are listening to it, one of us is charting it out, and we may have some different ideas on which way to take the song. [For instance], if it needs to go to go more country, progressive country, or we need to go kind of a Goodmans feel, or you know…there’s so many different genres. And having many different musicians involved, it takes the song in several places.”

Soon the client arrives at the studio, and the tracking process begins in which the instruments are recorded. “We’ll do the songs, have all the musicians here, probably including myself, anywhere from 4 to 6 guys here playing the music. We lay the tracks down. Get all the basic tracks: guitars, acoustic guitars, electric guitar, harmonica, dobro, drums, bass, piano, and maybe electric piano. If the client is needing orchestration and stuff, that will be sent out. But we get the tracks done [and] they’ll take home the tracks that we cut that day. I encourage them to go home with it for at least a week or two unless they know the material backwards and forwards when they get here.” This time period between recording tracks and vocals is important, says Randy.

“I find that a lot of times if you cut the tracks one day and sing the song the next day, a lot of times you don’t really have the feel for the song. So you are basically just singing the song. I love the “feel’ of music. I don’t like the music to be so structured. There needs to be a human approach to it. You know, God has given us different ways to express ourselves musically. So I think there needs to be feeling in a song, other than being just a real sterile, “I’m just going through the motions singing the song with a track”. So I encourage them to take it home, take the tracks home, learn the material and then come back and then cut the vocals.”

Once the vocals have been recorded, background vocals are then cut, and if this is a group project, special attention is paid to each individual part. Songs are then mixed and mastered, and the project is ready to go to press. As Snippa Creek is an all-inclusive studio, their staff can handle everything from artwork to promotion to duplication.

Randy has enjoyed the artists he has been able to work with and record at the Studio. “People hear my tracks and hear what I do while I’m on the road, and they come to me and say, ‘Where do you record?’ And I’ll tell them I record in my place! …So a lot of the clients that I record are southern gospel groups from all over that just so happened to be in concert with me. Some of the artists that I’ve recorded at Snippa Creek are JW Cooper, the Stanleys, Southern Psalm, and others…and they all do very well. I love all the guys and appreciate their gifts of music.”

Although Randy obviously enjoys the whole recording process, his favourite part is tracking, when the musicians get together to craft the song. “Because well before I was an engineer, before I was into the producing aspect, I’ve always been a musician. I love to take songs and take music into a different direction, and be able to play with other musicians. Its so great to get a core of guys in here that absolutely can burn the strings, just tear the drums up, or just play the piano. I love to get everybody in here together and play and have a great time.”

Anyone who has heard Randy in concert can attest to his instrumental artistry. We asked if there was any instrument he didn’t play, and got a taste of Randy’s irrepressible humour. “I guess one of the instruments I would really love to play that I don’t play is kazoo. I think its such a beautiful instrument and it goes so well in some of the ballads...nothing like hearing a good kazoo solo right in the middle of a ballad. And you know, bagpipes probably…a really good instrument. Course, you know that the range of a bagpipe is about 30 feet with a good arm…”. All joking aside, there is an instrument that Randy would like to play.

“Probably…I guess I would say saxophone, was the first instrument I wanted to learn to play. Before I learned to play…before I went into harmonica or anything like that…I went to the band teacher at school and told him that I wanted to learn to play saxophone. Well, he had enough saxophone players, so he tried to talk me into trombone. I played the trombone for about two weeks and just…it wasn’t happening for me. I didn’t like the instrument, so I didn’t apply myself, and I wish that I had gone back to him and said, “Look, I’m playing saxophone”. I wish I could play it right now.”

Randy’s favourite musicians to work with in the studio include John Jorgenson and Jeremy Metcalfe, guitarists, and Jason Webb, pianist. Vocally, Randy enjoys the artistry of Jason Crabb, Lauren Talley and Nicole Watts Jenkins. “Nicole, she’s a great, great vocalist, has a very soulful approach, and of course that’s kind of where my background is. There are a lot of Rhythm and Blues gospel choirs living around this Atlanta Georgia, Columbus Georgia area, that’s where they have all their choir competitions. So there’s a lot of that music that rubs off on me.”

Randy mentions other musical influences that have ‘rubbed off’ on him: “Probably, I would say Ray Charles, I used to listen to him a lot growing up. From Ray Charles to Baby Face to Glenn Miller, and Tony Bennett; of course Terry McMillan, great harmonica player; Howard Levy, great harmonica player; Jelly Roll Johnson. Those are just some of my musical influences. Some of my quartet stuff came after I played and sang with the Kingsmen Quartet. The quartet stuff came from them and I know because I didn’t listen to quartet music before I went there.”

These influences do flavour Randy’s studio work. “I love great music no matter what the style is. I listen to all genres of music; so it comes out in my studio production, often people that maybe I’ve listened to in the past. When somebody brings a song and I [might] say, ‘That sounds a lot like this particular person, lets kind of take it in that production route’. So yeah it does come out in the production that way.”

Snippa Creek Studio has housed many of the top session players. Randy explains: “I’ve got probably 30 different people that I can call at any given time to come down here and play and sing. Including of course Jason Webb, Jeremy Metcalfe, John Jorgenson, Mark Fain, and Roger Fortner… anybody within Southern Gospel, I can get down here. David Johnson, and a lot of people in mainstream music I have come down here also… Players I’ve had in my session studio have been Michael Lee, he’s the guy that used to play piano for the Bishops; Scott Meder, he’s played on a lot of stuff for Atlanta and Nashville, he’s a big studio cat. Mark Fain, Tim Surrett, myself, Rabbit Easter, and Kevin Ray [who] plays some big sessions in Nashville also.”

As Southern Gospel grows along with the availability of cheaper technology, Randy has seen a lot of small studios spring up across the country. “ There’s a lot of these little ‘studio-in-a-boxes’. You can go to the local ‘musical Home Depot’, which is Guitar Center or Musicians Friend, and pick up a little cheap recorder. The sound is not going to be the same… There are a lot of studios. There are only so many people that record.” With this kind of ‘competition’, Randy is aware that quality is what sets his studio apart. He wants to see this continue as Snippa Creek Studio grows.

“I would like to see Snippa Creek continue the way it’s going now. It offers a great project, high quality players, for a good price. Many times, I’m guilty of this also, I would go to some other studios and do projects in the past, and I would pay $15-30,000 for a project. I really would like to see the studio offer people a high quality project at a very decent price. And when they walk out of these doors they will be nothing more than absolutely pleased. And I will do everything in my power to make it the best it can be. I would like to grow a little bit, but God has blessed me to be able to do this, and to be able to offer quality services for people.”

Throughout his career in Southern Gospel, Randy’s music has encouraged and inspired many people. Randy talks about what inspires him as an artist: “Everything inspires me…You know, a person could come over and maybe say something that would inspire me to write. An event might inspire me to interpret music a different way. Places…you know, so many things inspire me creatively. Naturally, other music really really inspires me.”

“One of my first albums I did a big band song, and Tim Lovelace and I wrote this song called, “Lost it All and Found It All at Calvary”. I’d been listening a lot to Harry Connick, Jr., and a lot of big band stuff. So when we went into write and produce the song, naturally that feel came out. And the orchestration stuff, I had a particular way I wanted everything to be arranged. So creatively the song came out exactly how I wanted it to, and it was because it was inspired by other musicians.”

Randy Miller, award winning artist and instrumentalist extraordinaire, keeps a tight schedule with his solo dates, church involvement, and family time. But the addition of Snippa Creek Studio appears to be another avenue for his creative talent, and a boon for artists looking for an affordable place to record.

As Randy continues to travel and sing, play and produce, his heart can be heard in his music, and his commitment to Christ in his interactions with people. His “Mission Statement” says it best: “I want God to use me as a vessel for the up building of His kingdom. I am here to uplift the name of Jesus Christ. I want to see souls saved and people dedicating their lives to Christ." And, as his latest release says, “That’s a Fact”.

Find out where Randy is playing near you, by clicking onto: www.randy-miller.com. Contact Randy Miller directly for more details on Snippa Creek Studio.


By Lorraine Walker
Originally published by www.sgmradio.com September 2006. Reprinted by permission.

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

SGM Radio Blog’s Top Ten: Appointed by Grace


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!

Cindy Irwin, Appointed by Grace

I offer short Daily Devotionals using the Holy Bible. The devotionals are easy to read and meant to uplift and build the body of Christ. The other ministry I work with is to help run sound for my husband’s Southern Gospel Music group, Appointed By Grace. The Daily Devotionals are published on Facebook in the Daily Devotional group, and “Appointed By Grace’s website, www.AppointedByGrace.org

Cindy Irwin’s Top Ten

1. Please tell us the name of your latest recording and your favorite song from that CD.

My husband’s group is Appointed By Grace. They just finished a new project titled “By Request.” My favorite song is “Multitude of Mercy.”

What is the message behind this song?

This song just talks about God’s mercy and how He forgives us.

2. What is one group highlight from the last 12 months?

I write the “Daily Devotionals” even when I am traveling with “Appointed By Grace” and my greatest highlight from being on the road with them is when someone comes up to me and tells me that they are reading the devotional and how it ministered to them. I think it is awesome to know when I am in God’s will.

3. Have you been on a mission trip?

I have not been on an organized mission trip but when hurricane Rita came through Texas my husband and I took food, ice and generator fuel to several people.

4. What was the best decade for music? Favorite artist from that decade?
I grew up listening to my parents’ music from the 50s but I really have an eclectic taste in musical styles and eras.

5. Brush with greatness…who have you met that you couldn’t wait to tell your friends and family about?

I have briefly met Dottie Rambo. Bill and Gloria Gaither, Joel Olsten, John Hagee. I am sure they made a bigger impression on me than me on them.

6. If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

That superpower would probably be “knowing the future.” I often find myself saying, “if I would have known then what I know now.”

7. Who is your most favorite Bible person/character?

I really enjoy the Old Testament prophets, my favorite would be Jeremiah.

8. What is your favorite Bible verse?

Ephesians 2:8-9 (New King James Version) For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.

9. Name a song that once it gets stuck in your head you can’t get it out.

I was told that when you get a tune stuck to sing “Amazing Grace” to the tune of the theme from “Gilligan’s Island.” Once you do this it removes the other tune but then you have that one stuck in your head.

10. What is the last book you read?

Honestly, the Bible, I figure that if I am encouraging others to study the Bible on a daily bases then I should be practicing what I preach.

Great Opportunity!

Hey did you know that you are one of over 1300 people that read this blog every day? For a great opportunity to share your ministry with the other 1299, please write to me! sgmradio.lorrainewalker@gmail.com

HisSong To Host 9th Annual Homecoming This Weekend


NASHVILLE, Tenn. – (May 31, 2010) – Dove Award-nominated trio HisSong will be celebrating nine years of full-time ministry this weekend. The group will be hosting their 9th Annual Homecoming on Saturday, June 5, 2010.

The event will take place at Lifepoint Church (501 Legacy Drive) in Smyrna, Tennessee at will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. (doors open at 5:00 p.m.). In addition to a performance from HisSong, the group will host multi-award winning group The Perrys. Promoter Bill Bailey will be serving as the special guest emcee for the event as well.

HisSong owner/manager Dennis Humphries says, “We are so excited about this concert, and we hope everyone will be with us Saturday, June 5. It's going to be a great night of Gospel Music. We are also excited to have Solid Gospel a part of this year’s concert by giving FREE Rewards Points.”

For more info go to SolidGospel.com and click on the HisSong banner to find out more information regarding Solid Gospel’s Reward Points system. HisSong will also be live on Solid Gospel Friday, June 4, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. CST. The group will be discussing the event with Solid Gospel DJ Greg Hutchins.

HisSong’s current single, “What a Difference a Day Makes,” has already had a significant run at Southern Gospel radio. The song recently became the trio’s second consecutive Top 20 hit on the Singing News Top 80 Chart from their sophomore Vine Records release Journey Through the Sky. The song has also been a regular fixture on several other industry related charts such as the AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) Top 40 Weekly Chart, Christian Voice Magazine Top 100, and SouthernGospelTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart.

HisSong has had a strong run in the early part of 2010. The trio received three nominations in the SGN Music Awards – including Album of the Year for their critically acclaimed Journey Through the Sky album. That album also received a nomination for Favorite Album in the SGM FanFair Awards. It was also recently announced that Journey Through the Sky has been nominated for Favorite Album in the upcoming Diamond Awards which are to be held at the Branson Gospel Music Convention this June.

To order HisSong’s new project, Journey Through the Sky, visit their website at http://www.hissongmusic.com . More information on ordering the disc can be found at their website.

HisSong is booked through the Adoration Agency. For more information on how to book the popular trio, log on to http://www.adorationagency.com or call (910) 426-1931.

HisSong also has a weekly online newsletter which gives fans of the group information on the ministry and much more.

More information on HisSong can be found at http://www.hissongmusic.com. Fans are encouraged to visit the group’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/hissongministries.

About HisSong
Based out of Nashville, Tennessee, HisSong has already achieved national notoriety within the group’s short lifetime. HisSong received their first GMA Dove Award nomination last year for the critically acclaimed breakthrough recording On the Way Up. The group has been awarded two Diamond Awards. HisSong’s current single is “What a Difference a Day Makes.”