Ernie Haase & Wayne Haun Launch StowTown Records

From the Ernie Haase and Signature Sound email newsletter:



We have some very exciting news to share with you...

In 2001 while recording the Old Friends Quartet with George Younce, Jake Hess and Wesley Pritchard, George became ill and couldn’t travel to Nashville to record his vocals. So I brought the studio to his home in Stow, Ohio. There, George recorded in his pajamas, in the stock room of his garage. He loved the experience! As time passed, whenever we were driving to our favorite restaurant, we’d pass this old, empty building in Stow. George would always say, "Ernie that would be a great place for a studio and record label." Unfortunately his dream never came to fruition. But I never lost the idea. Every time I'd pass that old building I'd think of those words George spoke to me years ago.

For the past two years Wayne Haun and I have been dreaming, brainstorming and working to transform his words to reality. So I am very proud to announce that 2011 will be the inaugural year for a new gospel label, (drum roll please) "StowTown Records!" In a new partnership, this new label will be owned and operated by Wayne Haun and me.

We are also proud to announce that "StowTown" is partnering with Provident-Integrity Distribution to bring this music to your local retail stores.


Ernie Haase, Randy Davis (Vice President, Sales and Marketing
Provident-Integrity Distribution) and Wayne Haun

Let me share with you some of our exciting and future releases. Wayne and I went back into the vault and found all of the old two-inch masters of George's solo projects. Then we extracted only his voice. We went into the studio and re-recorded new and updated music on ten songs. EHSS then came in and sang all of the background vocals. Now we are backing up George just like the Jordanaires did with Elvis! This project ROCKS!

George Younce’s solo project will be the first release on the "StowTown Records" label which will be available March 15, 2011. We are "pre-selling" Georges new recording right now over at the EHSS Website at www.erniesigsound.com with delivery on or before the street date of March 15th, 2011.

The second release will be a solo project by our own Doug Anderson. Anyone who has heard Doug sing knows he sings from his heart, and I can assure you that this solo project will definitely touch yours. It will be released in May 3, 2011. Both George and Doug currently have singles playing on the radio, so please call your local station and request George's single, "You Will Get Your Reward Someday" and Doug's single, "Jesus Is Holding My Hand"



"StowTown Records" is also very excited to announce the signing of the incredible and talented Collingsworth Family. We will have more to come regarding this great partnership. Look for this release Summer 2011.

For more information regarding "StowTown's" vision and roster of artists, visit www.stowtownrecords.com. Please, check it out and join the email list on the main page so you can stay "in the know" about future projects and artist signings. Also, take advantage of the Facebook and Twitter feed (coming soon). This will keep you up to date with all things StowTown and will allow you to know how to pray for us. It is our desire (mission) to create a body of musical work that will bring honor to God and build the faith and hope of His children.

Last night in Nashville, TN we had a gathering of friends to launch StowTown Records. We had a great time! Click here to view some photos from the party!
http://www.gospelmusicupdate.com/gallery/stowtownrecords/party.html
In closing, let me say that we appreciate your love, prayers and support through all of these exciting and challenging times; but above all we thank the Lord for His never ending love!
And That's Reason Enough To Believe,
Ernie Haase

Gospel Music Returns to the Great Smoky Mountains with 2 Great Events This Spring

CGM FanFest and SGM FanFair warm up the season with multi-day, live gospel music concert events

Slated for this spring, two major events are returning to the Great Smoky Mountains - Country Gospel Music FanFest and Southern Gospel Music FanFair. Both events will be held at the Smoky Mountain Convention Center in Pigeon Forge, TN.

The 2nd Annual CGM FanFest - April 28-30 - will bring three days and nights jam-packed with daily showcases and evening concerts, featuring live performances from some of today's top Country Gospel artists such as Buddy Jewell, Clinton Gregory, The Roarks, James Payne, Gayla Earlene and many others. (See full schedule at the CGM FanFest website). On Saturday night, Christian Voice Magazine will present the inaugural CGM Fan Awards, where fans pay tribute to their favorite Country Gospel artists. CGM FanFest is sure to please any fan who likes their gospel music served up country style.

The following week, May 2-7, gospel music fans from all over the nation will gather to enjoy the best in Southern Gospel music, fellowship and family fun at the 7th Annual SGM FanFair. This six-day event is filled with morning worship services, daily showcases and evening concerts featuring performances from some of America's best-loved artists, including Triumphant, The Dove Brothers, The Nelons, Tony Gore & Majesty, The Singing Echoes, The Sons Family, The Freemans...and many, many more. (See full schedule at the SGM FanFair website). The 2011 SGM Fan Awards will also be featured on Thursday night, presented by Christian Voice Magazine. SGM FanFair is a "must-see" event for anyone who loves Southern Gospel music.

The CGM Fan Awards and the SGM Fan Awards are strictly fan-based, meaning that award recipients are voted and determined by gospel music fans. Nomination ballots for both awards programs went online February 1st. Open nominations are being accepted through February 28th...so there is still time to list nominations for your favorite artists. But don't delay, there are only a few days left. (The second and final ballots, listing the top 5 nominees will go online March 1st.)

Promoter Randall Wilds states, "Support your favorite Southern and Country Gospel artists with your nominations and make plans to attend CGM FanFest and SGM FanFair in the beautiful Smoky Mountains this spring!"

To order tickets and for more information about CGM FanFest, visit www.cgmfanfest.com.
To order tickets and for more information about SGM FanFair, visit www.sgmfanfair.com.
Or, you may call Wilds & Associates at 205-662-4826.

To nominate your favorite Country Gospel artists for the CGM Fan Awards, go to http://www.christianvoicemagazine.com/cgmnominations.html.
To nominate your favorite Southern Gospel artists for the SGM Fan Awards, go to http://www.christianvoicemagazine.com/nominationballot.html.

CGM FanFest and SGM FanFair are produced by Wilds & Associates (www.wildsandassociates.com).
The CGM and SGM Fan Awards are presented by Christian Voice Magazine (www.christianvoicemagazine.com).

Sharron Kay King Featured On SouthernGospelTimes.com

BYRON, Ga. – (February 23, 2011) – Singing News Fan Award nominee Sharron Kay is currently featured on the popular Southern Gospel website SouthernGospelTimes.com. Sharron is 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 Sharron focuses on her history as a performer and minister, her biggest spiritual and musical influences, the future of her ministry, and much more.

Sharron said, “It is such an honor to be featured on this great website! They do a fantastic job of promoting this music that we all love so much, and I am humbled that they would want to feature me, my music, and my ministry!”

To read the article on Sharron Kay King, visit SouthernGospelTimes.com.

Sharron recently recorded her first ever live DVD. The popular soloist recorded footage for the DVD at the Leesburg Church of God in Leesburg, Georgia on Saturday, August 21, 2010. The Kenny Croft Band was the house band for the recording. The band hails from Vienna, Georgia.

Several of Sharron’s most beloved songs will be included on the live DVD, as well as new material written specifically for the DVD release. In addition, the DVD will feature four concept videos as bonus material. The recently recorded concept videos can be found streaming on various portals on the web including Facebook and YouTube.

Pre-sales for the live DVD will be available on Sharron’s website. More information as well as booking information on Sharron Kay King can be found at http://sharronkayking.com. Fans are encouraged to visit Sharron’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/sharronkayking. Fans can visit Sharron on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sharron-Kay-King-Official-Fan-Page/102290253148210 .

Triple L Band Utilizes New Technology

Triple L Band Utilizes New Technology
Triple L Band, Front Porch Fellowship Awards “New Artist Of The Year,” is utilizing new technology in the marketing of their new CD. Triple L Band is a fast rising Bluegrass Gospel band that has already been using various social media outlets to market their music. However, they believe this new technological tool will be the next step artists use to introduce fans to their music. This technology is known as a Microsoft Tag and can be scanned by a smart phone so that you can hear music clips from the artist. Triple L Band’s new CD project “Are You Ready” comes equipped with the tag on the back of the CD. Therefore, when someone picks up the CD at a bookstore or concert they can sample the music or hear the new single without opening the CD packaging. This will help in retail environments where a listening kiosk is not present.
Terry Hudson of Hudson Media Concepts and manager of Triple L Band says, “The tag will also be placed in magazine articles and ads about the group as well as concert posters. This will enable Triple L Band to have a wider marketing circle.” For more information contact Hudson Media Concepts at (828) 692-7099 or visit www.hudsonmediaconcepts.com. For more information on Triple L Band, visit them online at www.triplelband.com.

The Perrys Release Blue Skies: Audio Interview with Rob Patz

SGN Scoops Exclusive:

Rob Patz talks to Libbi Perry Stuffle of THE PERRYS as their brand new release BLUE SKIES hits the market today!

Click here to listen.

Mansion Adds Master’s Voice To Gateway Records Roster

Franklin, TN (Mansion Entertainment) February 21, 2011 – Mansion Entertainment announces the addition of Master’s Voice to its Gateway Records label roster. Gateway Records was created to spotlight some of Southern Gospel's break out artists of today and will become the label’s music medium for presenting these artists to the Southern Gospel world. Master’s Voice will debut as the first artist to appear on this new Mansion Entertainment label division.

Southern Gospel listeners are already familiar with Master’s Voice from their songs such as “Everything The Blood Touches Lives” and “I Know What He Did For Me” which have been chart songs for the group as well as radio favorites on networks such as Solid Gospel. The group has previously landed on the ‘Featured Artist Showcase’ at the National Quartet Convention and were recently highlighted as one of Absolutely Gospel’s ‘Ones-To-Watch 2011: New Faces. Fresh Sounds’ Top 10 artists poised to win over the hearts of music fans in 2011. Comprised of group members Ricky Capps (tenor), Jonathan Drew (lead), Joey Johnson (baritone) and Ben Hart (pianist), the group performs in churches, on cruise lines and at fairs across the country. In their travels, Master’s Voice has witnessed more than 3,000 professions of faith in their concerts as they also combine their concerts with evangelistic crusades.

Master’s Voice is currently putting the finishing touches on their debut Gateway Records project and a new single, “He Took The Cross”, is currently shipping to Southern Gospel radio on the Manor House Radio Hits Volume 1 compilation disc. Manor House Radio Hits Volume 1 will not only feature the debut Gateway release but offer a cross-section to radio of all of Mansion Entertainment’s labels including a ‘Mansion Records Encore’ of the latest Triumphant Quartet, Three Bridges and Palmetto State Quartet singles. For more information regarding Master’s Voice visit their website at www.mastersvoice.com.

The Perrys Celebrate The Release Of Blue Skies With Appearance On TBN And At Brooklyn Tabernacle In NYC

Hendersonville, TN (February 21, 2011) – After months of anticipation, Daywind Records artist, The Perrys, are excited to announce the release of their newest album, entitled Blue Skies. The project is the first to feature new baritone, Bryan Walker, and will be available in stores starting this week.
To celebrate the release of the album, The Perrys will be appearing on TBN’s Praise The Lord. The two hour program, hosted by Jason Crabb, will be taped Tuesday night, February 22, at Trinity Music City in Hendersonville, TN, beginning at 7 pm CST. The show will air on Friday, February 25, at 9 pm CST. Also appearing are The McKameys, Legacy Five & Allison Durham Speer.

The Perrys will also be appearing live at Brooklyn Tabernacle in Brooklyn, NY this Sunday, February 27, for three services. This marks the first time The Perrys have appeared there.
Blue Skies, produced by Wayne Haun, features the same moving lyrics paired with classic blends that has become synonymous with the Perry name. With songs written by Kyla Rowland, Dianne Wilkinson, Wayne Haun, Joel Lindsey and Joseph Habedank, the album has no shortage of great songs that fans are sure to love. The first radio single, “Celebrate Me Home,” which debuted at number 30 on the Singing News charts, has already touched the hearts of listeners across the country.

“We’re really excited, because there has been a lot of hard work put into this album,” shares Tracy Stuffle of The Perrys. “We feel as though it’s one of the best song selections we’ve had. With the first single debuting at number 30, we think great things are going to come from this recording. It’s already become a fan favorite before it’s released, and we’re excited for everyone to hear these songs.”

Blue Skies is available at Christian retail stores across the country and digitally at iTunes and other outlets. Bulk purchasing for gift and ministry purposes is available by calling 1-800-635-9581.

Daywind Records is based in Hendersonville, TN, and is distributed worldwide through New Day Christian Distributors. In addition to The Perrys, Daywind is home to such great artists as Sisters and the Mark Trammell Quartet, among others.

To hear clips from this project, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fs-LuHuVwMY. For more information on The Perrys, visit perrysministries.com. For more information on Daywind Records, visit daywindrecords.com.

Sunday Edition Nominated For “Best Southern Gospel Group” in About Christian Music Reader’s Choice Awards!

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – (February 21, 2011) – Sunday Edition, one of Middle Tennessee’s favorite groups, was recently greeted with news that they were nominated in the About Christian Music Reader’s Choice Awards.

The up and coming trio was nominated for “Best Southern Gospel Group” alongside some of the industry’s most visible and respected artists such as Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, The Hoppers, The Isaacs, and Gaither Vocal Band. The readers of About Christian Music chose the nominees in a dozen categories that included every genre of music form Southern Gospel to Rock and Urban to Indie categories.

“To say that we are shocked by this nomination is an understatement,” mentioned Deon Unthank of Sunday Edition. “We’ve had a rough first part of the year with the death of my wife, and due to her declining health our ministry took a backseat for a good part of last year. To see that people are still supportive of our music and ministry is so encouraging! We are truly honored and humbled by this nomination! Thank you to everyone who placed a vote for us!”

Sunday Edition was recently named the “underdog” by Kim Jones (editor of About Christian Music) due to the group’s indie status and grassroots following. Voting for the winners will continue until March 8, 2011, and fans of all genres of Gospel music are encouraged to vote for their favorite artists.

For more information on the About Christian Music Reader’s Awards, visit http://christianmusic.about.com . About Christian Music is one of the most read sites on Christian and Gospel music. The site covers all forms of Gospel music, including Southern Gospel.

Sunday Edition recently recorded their third single release for BSA World Records. News about the new song and full-time radio promotion will be announced at a later date.

The trio recently released their highly anticipated new recording – Sunday Worship. Sunday Worship is a conceptual recording that not only pays tribute to the group’s history singing in the church, but it also takes a look at the current landscape of church music. Sunday Worship consists of six cherished hymns and five modern worship songs set to an acoustic, piano only accompaniment.

Sunday Edition’s website is currently under renovation, and until the new site is unveiled, you can find out more information on the trio by visiting many social networking sites. Facebook members can find Sunday Edition at www.facebook.com/sundayedition . Sunday Edition’s MySpace can be found at www.myspace.com/thesundayedition/. Fans can visit Sunday Edition’s Shoutlife at www.shoutlife.com/sundayedition/. You can follow Sunday Edition on Twitter by logging in at www.twitter.com/thesunedition .

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.

Triumphant Quartet Earns Two Dove Nominations For “Love Came Calling”

Franklin, TN (Mansion Entertainment) February 18th, 2011 – The Gospel Music Association chose the historic Fox Theatre’s Grand Salon in Atlanta to announce this year’s 42nd Annual Dove Award nominees on February 16th. Among the diverse list of those announced for Dove nominations was Triumphant Quartet. The title cut from their new Mansion Entertainment project, “Love Came Calling”, written by Wayne Haun and Joel Lindsey, received nods for ‘Song of the Year’ and ‘Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year’.

Triumphant Quartet has garnered such nominations as Top 10 Song of The Year (Singing News Fan Awards), Top 10 Album of The Year (Singing News Fan Awards) and numerous Top 5 nominations recognizing both the group and group members. Their long list of accolades and recognition include the group being awarded the Favorite Traditional Quartet of The Year award at the Singing News Fan Awards in 2009 and 2010 along with Eric Bennett receiving the Favorite Bass Singer of The Year award two years running and Jeff Stice being awarded the Favorite Musician of the Year honors for the past three years. Add to that already impressive list a nomination for Best Southern, Country or Bluegrass Gospel Album by the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards for their album, ‘Everyday’, produced by Wayne Haun with group pianist Jeff Stice lending his talent as associate producer.

The ‘Song of the Year’ Dove nomination puts the group in an elite spotlight across all genres of Christian Music as the only traditional Southern Gospel group to appear in the list of nominees that include artists such as Mercy Me, TobyMac and Chris Tomlin.

The 42nd Annual GMA Dove Award winners will be announced during a live taping of the show at the Fox Theatre on Wednesday, April 20th which will air Easter Sunday, April 24th at 7:00pm on GMC.

GUY PENROD-Texas Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Induction—Tickets available

GUY PENROD-Texas Gospel Music Hall Of Fame Induction—Tickets available


Native Texan GUY PENROD will be inducted into the TEXAS GOSPEL MUSIC HALL OF FAME Saturday, February 26, 7 PM at Dallas Baptist University, 5000 Mountain Parkway, Dallas, Texas. After 14 fabulous years with the Gaither Vocal Band, Guy Penrod is now riding high in a solo ministry, garnering a 2011 Dove Award nomination. Guy and Angie live in Nashville, Tennessee, with their seven sons and one daughter. He is famous the world over and Texans are proud of this native son. With his induction into the TGMHOF, Guy joins notable Texans Larry Gatlin & the Gatlins, Cynthia Clawson, Duane Allen, Les Beasley, Larry Ford, Glen Payne, Walt Mills, Roger McDuff, Lou Wills Hildreth, Wills Family, Chuck Wagon Gang, pioneers V. O. & Frank Stamps, W. B. Nowlin, and others who have influenced gospel music in Texas and far beyond. Joining Guy Penrod, the 2011 inductees on February 26th are Jack Davis, radio, Jack Taylor, pioneer keyboardist, Plainsmen Quartet, Marion Snider’s Original Imperial Quartet, Bob Wills & The Inspirationals. Doors will open at 6:00 and the public is encouraged to attend this benefit and help preserve the gospel music heritage of Texas. General Admission is $25.For more information call Randy Wills 214-934-5983.

Publishers Point For SGN Scoops Magazine

Southern Gospel News Scoops update

ERNIE HAASE & SIGNATURE SOUND GARNER MULTIPLE DOVE AWARD NOMINATIONS INCLUDING PRESTIGIOUS ARTIST OF THE YEAR AND GROUP OF THE YEAR

NASHVILLE, TENN. - February 17, 2011 - Nominations for the 42nd Annual GMA Dove Awards were announced yesterday at a press conference from the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, GA.
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound scored a total of seven nominations, including prestigious Group of the Year and Artist of the Year. Additionally, "I Thirst" received a nomination for Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year, Doug Anderson received a Male Vocalist of the Year nomination and Wayne Haun is nominated for Producer of the Year. Rounding out the nominations were nods for Southern Gospel Album of the Year for A Tribute to the Cathedral Quartet, and Long Form Music Video of the Year for A Tribute to the Cathedral Quartet.
Ernie Haase says: "When I heard the news I immediately thought of George Younce and Glen Payne and how happy they would be to know their music has outlived their lives." Ernie continues, "We're honored to be nominated alongside our friends and peers. We are so blessed!"
Their highly-acclaimed latest release A Tribute to the Cathedral Quartet debuted at #1 on the Billboard Music Video Chart and #1 on the Southern Gospel Music chart as well as #3 on the Contemporary Christian Music chart and features the #1 song "I Thirst."
For more information on Ernie Haase & Signature sound, visit ErnieHaase.com, twitter.com/ErnieHaase or facebook.com/ErnieHaaseAndSignatureSound.
The 42nd Annual GMA Dove Awards will be held at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Ga. on Wednesday, April 20th. The awards show will be televised on GMC at 8:00p.m. ET/delayed PT on Easter Sunday, April 24th. GMC can be seen in 47 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.
About Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
Combining 21st century ideas with the timeless quality of great quartets from the 1950s, this Grammy-nominated, Dove award winning group has broken the traditional mold of gospel quartets. With their unconventional approach to communicating the Good News, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound (EHSS) are blazing a trail through the heart of Gospel music with groundbreaking originality.
The group’s founder and leader, Ernie Haase, got his start in Gospel music as a long-time member of the renowned Cathedral Quartet, and his roots are deeply planted in the rich legacy of music that is both meaningful and thoroughly entertaining. After the Cathedrals bid farewell to their five-decade run in the music industry, Ernie put all his great training to work when he formed, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound. With chart-topping DVDs and audio releases, the group’s success continues to gain momentum with each new release.
About the 42nd Annual GMA Dove Awards
The GMA Dove Awards is Christian/Gospel music’s 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 42nd Annual GMA Dove Awards will be held on Wednesday, April 20, 2011 at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Ga. and televised nationwide on GMC Sunday, April 24, 2011 from 8 p.m. - 10 p.m. EST. GMC is the fastest-growing network in television and can be seen in 47 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.
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THE HOPPERS SCORE 42ND ANNUAL GMA DOVE AWARD NOMINATIONS

NASHVILLE, TENN. - February 17, 2011 – The legendary Hoppers received two nominations for the 2011 42nd Annual GMA Dove Awards, according to announcements made at a press conference yesterday in Atlanta, GA, at the Fox Theatre’s Grand Salon.

The Hoppers picked up nominations in the Country Recorded Song of the Year category for "Living in the Arms of Mercy," written by Joel Lindsey and Jeff Silvey, as well as in the Southern Gospel Album of the Year category for their project Something's Happening (Spring Hill Music), produced and arranged by Lari Goss. The release features tunes penned by other acclaimed writers including Bill Gaither, Tony Wood, Kyla Rowland, Rusty Golden, Dianne Wilkinson, Gerald Crabb, Gina Vera and others.

“We are so excited and blessed by this,” stated Connie Hopper. “The confidence in us shown by our peers through these nominations is humbling, and we would like to thank the GMA for these recognitions…to receive this kind of ‘pat on the back’ from those around us spurs us on!"
These nominations come on the heels of The Hoppers’ 2010 additions to their mantle of awards with fan awards for Favorite Soprano of the Year (Kim), Favorite Mixed Group of the Year and Favorite Female Artist (Kim). The Hoppers also hit the BILLBOARD Magazine charts in recent months with the release of THE GAITHER GOSPEL SERIES: THE BEST OF THE HOPPERS (Gaither Music Group). The DVD soared to #2 on the magazine’s video chart while the CD entered the BILLBOARD Heatseeker chart at #4. Additionally, the CD entered the Nielsen SoundScan southern Gospel chart at #1 and the Contemporary Christian chart at #10.
Something’s Happening, available online and at retailers everywhere, is distributed by EMI CMG.
For further information regarding The Hoppers, please visit www.TheHoppers.com, www.twitter.com/HoppersMusic and www.facebook.com/thehoppers.
The 42nd Annual GMA Dove Awards will be held at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Ga. on Wednesday, April 20th. The awards show will be televised on GMC at 8:00p.m. ET/delayed PT on Easter Sunday, April 24th. GMC can be seen in 47 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224. Visit GMClife.com
About The Hoppers
Formed in North Carolina in1957 (originally as The Hopper Brothers and Connie), The Hoppers have been a Gospel music mainstay for over 50 years. This family group, consisting of Claude, Connie, Dean, Kim and Mike, is known for a string of hits including “Here I Am”, “Anchor to the Power of the Cross”, “Shoutin’ Time,” “Yes I Am,” ”Mention My Name,” “Jerusalem” and “Yaweh.” In addition to radio success, The Hoppers have received numerous accolades including Mixed Group of the Year from the Singing News Fan Awards, the SGMA, Hearts Aflame Awards and Diamond Awards as well as six GMA DOVE Award nominations. Connie was presented with the prestigious Marvin Norcross Award; Michael has received the Musician of the Year Award from The Singing News Fan Awards; and Kim has been honored as Female Vocalist and Favorite Soprano for well over a decade.
About the 42nd Annual GMA Dove Awards
The GMA Dove Awards is Christian/Gospel music’s 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 42nd Annual GMA Dove Awards will be held on Wednesday, April 20, 2011 at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Ga. and televised nationwide on GMC Sunday, April 24, 2011 from 8 p.m. - 10 p.m. EST. GMC is the fastest-growing network in television and can be seen in 47 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.

THE ISAACS GARNER GMA DOVE AWARD NOMINATION FOR THE ISAACS CHRISTMAS

NASHVILLE, TENN. - February 17, 2011 - The Isaacs have garnered a GMA Dove Award nomination for The Isaacs Christmas (Gaither Music Group) in the category of Christmas Album of the Year. The nomination was announced on Wednesday, February 16, during a press conference held at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, GA, where the 42nd Annual GMA Dove Awards ceremony will take place on April 20, 2011.
The Isaacs Christmas debuted on Billboard’s Bluegrass Album chart in the Top 10 Holiday albums and remained there throughout the Christmas season.

The Isaacs latest mainline release Naturally has been in the Top 10 Billboard Bluegrass Chart for over 71 weeks, since its debut.
For more information on The Isaacs, please visit www.TheIsaacs.com, follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/IsaacsMusic, and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheIsaacs.
The 42nd Annual GMA Dove Awards will be held at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Ga. on Wednesday, April 20th. The awards show will be televised on GMC at 8:00p.m. ET/delayed PT on Easter Sunday, April 24th. GMC can be seen in 47 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.
About The Isaacs
The Isaacs is a multi-award-winning family group that blends tight, family harmony with contemporary acoustic instrumentation, winning the appraise of critics and the loyalty of audiences all over the world. The Isaacs have been making jaw-dropping music for more the 30 years and perform frequently at the Grand Ole Opry, are favorites on the Gaither Homecoming video and concert series, perform frequently with legendary performers such as: Dolly Parton, Trace Adkins, Brad Paisley, Paul Simon, Vince Gill, Randy Owen, Trisha Yearwood, Ralph Stanley, Mark Lowry, and many more.
About the 42nd Annual GMA Dove Awards
The GMA Dove Awards is Christian/Gospel music’s 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 42nd Annual GMA Dove Awards will be held on Wednesday, April 20, 2011 at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Ga. and televised nationwide on GMC Sunday, April 24, 2011 from 8 p.m. - 10 p.m. EST. GMC is the fastest-growing network in television and can be seen in 47 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.
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Jaidyn's Call Welcomes New Member

Debra Perry-Reed, (Original soprano of her family group, the Award Winning Perrys), along with her husband,Christopher Reed welcomes to their group Jaidyn's Call, Grant Gibson from Jasper, Alabama. Grant is a graduate of Liberty University and has a Bachelor's Degree in Communications.
For more info: www.jaidynscall.com

AbsolutelyGospel.com and SouthernGospelForums.com Join Forces

Two Predominant Industry Sites Combine To Become One-Stop Shop for All Things Southern Gospel


MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – (February 10, 2011) – The administrators and staff of AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) are proud to announce the merger of the site’s extensive discussion forum with the Southern Gospel music industry’s largest message board community – SouthernGospelForums.com.

SouthernGospelForums.com was founded two years ago by popular Southern Gospel blogger and industry worker Daniel Mount and several other devoted fans of Southern Gospel music. After years of unprecedented growth, the SouthernGospelForums.com community and AbsolutelyGospel.com have agreed to join forces so they can get the technical support needed to keep up with the growth and demand of both sites.

"I am thankful for the great times we've had for the last few years at Southern Gospel Forums,” mentioned Daniel Mount. “Lately, I've simply been ready to take a break from administrator and technical responsibilities—both to avoid burnout and to devote more time to my writing efforts at SouthernGospelBlog.com and elsewhere. Since we didn't have any forum members step up to take my place handling the technical end of running the forums, we decided to accept Absolutely Gospel's gracious offer of a merger.”

The moderating and administrative staff of SouthernGospelForums.com will remain intact, with AbsoltuelyGospel.com’s Deon and Chris Unthank stepping in as technical support.

Daniel continued, "The remainder of Southern Gospel Forums' capable moderating team—Diana, Lynn, and Naomi—will be making the move to being moderators at Absolutely Gospel. They have proven that they can handle the diplomacy and housekeeping aspects of running a site, and, naturally, over the last decade and more, the Unthanks have demonstrated their prowess at the technical end. So with that load off my shoulders, I'm looking forward to participating, once again, in the simpler role of someone who loves this music!"

Deon Unthank, administrator of AbsolutelyGospel.com said, “We believe that this merger will have healthy affects for both our site and their community. We can help expand their community with our readers, and hopefully in turn, their traffic will help the visibility of our site as well. This is win-win for both parties, and we are so excited about having them as a part of our site!”

AbsolutelyGospel.com is the most comprehensive and expansive website dedicated to Southern Gospel music. Established as SoGospelNews.com in 1997 by Deon & Susan Unthank, the site 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.

For more information on Absolutely Gospel, visit www.absolutelygospel.com .

The merged message board communities can be found at http://absolutelygospel.com/index/forum/ .

2nd Generation Nominated for Fan Favorite Artist of the Year

OAK GROVE, Ark. – (February 10, 2011) – Diamond Award winning trio 2nd Generation recently landed their second career nomination in the Absolutely Gospel (SGN) Music Awards. The popular trio landed a nomination in the category of Fan Favorite Artist of the Year – the sole category in the Absolutely Gospel Music Awards where the nominees are decided on by the fans.

“We are humbled and honored that our friends would get out there and nominate us for such a huge award,” mentioned 2nd Generation’s Elaine Parks. “Thanks to everyone who took time out of their schedules to vote for us! We are so amazed!”

Deon Unthank, administrator of SoGospelNews.com said, “2nd Generation’s nomination in this category is a testament to just how supportive fans are of their favorite artists. 2nd Generation’s family, friends, and fans all did their job and got the group this nomination! Congrats to such a great group!”

In addition to 2nd Generation, the Fan Favorite Artist of the Year category features a who’s who of Southern Gospel’s biggest names – including the Booth Brothers, Gaither Vocal Band, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Karen Peck & New River, Triumphant Quartet, Bowling Family, The Perrys, Beyond the Ashes, and McMillan and Life.

The Absolutely Gospel (SGN) Music Award nominees are chosen by the staff of AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) and select members of the Southern Gospel media and community. Starting on February 1, 2011 – fans have gotten the chance to vote for their favorite songs, albums, and artists in Southern Gospel music. To see a complete list of nominees – visit http://www.absolutelygospel.com .



The 2011 Absolutely Gospel (SGN) Music Awards Celebration will take place on Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at River of Life Church in Smyrna, Tennessee. The event is free to the public and is tentatively scheduled to be streamed live on the internet like last year.

2nd Generation was recently named as one of 10 new artists to watch this year by AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com). The article, called “Ones-to-Watch 2011: New Faces. Fresh Sounds.”, was a part of the December 15, 2010 update for the popular e-zine and mentioned new artists that the staff of AGM felt would make the biggest impact in 2011.

2nd Generation was included alongside such names as Freedom, Statement of Faith Trio, The Taylors, Rod Burton, and others. To read the entire article – visit http://absolutelygospel.com/index/content/articles/feature-ones-to-watch-2011-new-faces.-fresh-sounds/ .

In addition, 2nd Generation ranked two songs on the AbsolutelyGospel.com Top 100 Songs of 2010 chart. The group’s hit singles “The Blood Covered It All” and “I’ll Not Fear the Crossing” ranked at #54 and #67 respectively according to the year-end figures of the AbsolutelyGospel.com Top 40 Weekly Chart.

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 four hit singles including the #1 Fan Favorite songs “Feel the Joy” and “The Blood Covered It All.”

Dove Brothers Honored with 7 Absolutely Gospel (SGN) Music Award Nominations!

BLADENBORO, N.C. – (February 10, 2011) – Multi-award winning quartet the Dove Brothers landed a stellar seven nominations in the 2011 Absolutely Gospel (SGN) Music Awards program. The nominees were announced in over 24 categories last month and the Dove Brothers were among the most nominated this year.

The popular quartet landed nominations for Song of the Year and Country Song of the Year (for the #1 smash hit “Hold On”), Album of the Year and Country Album of the Year (for Unshakeable), Male Group of the Year, and Best Live Performer. Group owner and manager McCray Dove also landed his first nomination in the Songwriter of the Year (Artist) category.

Dove also received two additional nominations apart from the group for writing the Song of the Year and Country Song of the Year nominated “Hold On.”

“We had a very good year in 2011,” mentioned McCray Dove. “We are so honored and humbled by these nominations. Thanks to everyone at AbsolutelyGospel.com for these nominations, and thanks to all the fans who are voting for us now!”

The Dove Brothers have been awarded three SGN Music Awards in the past – all in 2008 when the group won Song of the Year and Traditional Song of the Year for “I Can Pray” as well as 2008 Pacesetter. In addition to this year, the group has now been nominated 46 times in the program, including six consecutive nominations in the category of Male Group of the Year.

The Absolutely Gospel (SGN) Music Award nominees are chosen by the staff of AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) and select members of the Southern Gospel media and community. Starting on February 1, 2011 – fans have gotten the chance to vote for their favorite songs, albums, and artists in Southern Gospel music. To see a complete list of nominees – visit http://www.absolutelygospel.com .



The 2011 Absolutely Gospel (SGN) Music Awards Celebration will take place on Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at River of Life Church in Smyrna, Tennessee. The event is free to the public and is tentatively scheduled to be streamed live on the internet like last year.

According to AbsolutelyGospel.com, the Dove Brothers were named the most played artist of 2010 at Southern Gospel radio. Due to the group’s #1 hits “Hold On” and “If I Knew Then,” the Dove Brothers ranked #1 on the site’s Top 20 Most Played Artists of 2010 list.

In addition, the Dove Brothers’ #1 hit, “Hold On," was named the #1 Song of the Year according to the site’s Top 100 Songs of 2010 list. The quartet’s other #1 single, “If I Knew Then,” ranked at #10 on the list as well.

“If I Knew Then” is the debut single from the group’s latest, critically-acclaimed hit album Unshakeable. Unshakeable was also named one of the best releases of 2010 by James Hales, staff writer for AbsolutelyGospel.com.

The group just released the second single from Unshakeable. “I Recall” (also penned by McCray Dove) has an immediate add date.

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 Unshakeable and spawned off the #1 hit “If I Knew Then.”

EHA-Nashville Named Corporate Sponsor for “Diamond Awards On Tour”

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – (February 9, 2011) – Coastal Media Group and SGN Scoops Digital, home of the Diamond Awards, are excited to announce the addition of booking and promotional agency EHA-Nashville as the first corporate sponsor for the “Diamond Awards On Tour” programs.

EHA-Nashville is a promotional agency that specializes in publicity, booking, and artist direction for Southern and Country Gospel musicians. The company is spearheaded by industry veteran Evie Hawkins and currently represents a vast array of artists and ministries including Young Harmony, Jericho, Homeland Quartet, and many more.

Evie Hawkins responded, “I am so excited about being a corporate sponsor for the ‘Diamond Awards on Tour.’ Rob Patz has put together a wonderful team of ministry-minded artists and supporters to bring the public some amazing concerts. I hope everyone will join us on February 10 at Trevecca University in Nashville for the first concert!”

“Evie has been a big supporter of the Diamond Awards and especially this new tour that have put together,” mentioned Coastal Media Group’s Rob Patz. “Having her on board as a sponsor means a lot to our company and the artists that will be a part of such a great event!”

To find out more information on EHA-Nashville, visit www.eviehawkinsagency.net .

Set to take place this week in Nashville, Tennessee, the first show on this brand new tour will include performances from Wilburn & Wilburn, Driven Quartet, Beyond the Ashes, and Christy Sutherland. The first date on the “Diamond Awards On Tour” experience will be on Thursday, February 10, 2011 in Nashville, Tennessee at Trevecca Nazarene University at the Boone Business Building Convocation Center started at 6:30 p.m.

The “Diamond Awards On Tour” is a new initiative designed to take the Diamond Awards experience across the country this year. The “Diamond Awards On Tour” concert series will hit major markets and universities in an effort to bring awareness to the Diamond Awards program and attract new readers to the already popular digital magazine.

This year’s Diamond Awards program will take place on Thursday, June 30, 2011 as a part of the 3rd Annual Branson Gospel Music Revival in Branson, Missouri.

The Diamond Awards are currently accepting nominations for the Top 10 Ballot in this year’s program. To find out how you can nominate your favorite artists, visit http://www.sgnscoops.com for more information.

Hosts, performers and sponsors for the 2011 Diamond Awards will be announced at a later date.

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 in each year. The awards show is based during the Branson Gospel Music Convention every July.

SGN Scoops Digital Releases February Issue: It's All About LOVE

The February 2011 issue of SGN Scoops is now available for download. Click http://www.sgnscoops.com/sgnscoops0121.pdf to read your issue in user-friendly .PDF format.

Our latest issue featured the premiere cover story by Jennifer Campbell, who catches up with Karen, Susan, & Jeff as Karen Peck & New River reaches out into new territory. We also hear the God-written love stories of three gospel couples: Marcie & Michael English, Joel & LaBreeska Hemphill, and Laura & James Michael Rainey.

Our columnists, unbeknownst to them, focus on a central theme: sharing the love of Jesus!

Meanwhile, our Diamond Awards voting season continues as we gear up for the Diamond Awards On the Road. The first concert features Driven, Beyond the Ashes, Christy Sutherland, and the debut of Jonathan Wilburn’s Wilburn & Wilburn!


Click http://www.sgnscoops.com/sgnscoops0121.pdf to download.

Electric Station Records Welcomes Woody Wright & Reggie & Ladye Love Smith!

Peoria, IL (February 8, 2011) - Illinois-based Electric Station Records is excited to announce the addition of Woody Wright and Reggie & Ladye Love Smith to their artist roster. For the past 14 years, both the Smiths and Wright have been mainstays on the Gaither Homecoming tours and television specials. In addition to this, they've also released several solo projects and provided music production support for countless other artists and recordings.



Reggie & Ladye Love Smith

"We're blessed to be able to offer label support to these great artists," says D. Scott Kramer of Electric Station Records. With regards to the addition of Reggie & Ladye Love Smith, Kramer had this to say: "Reggie & Ladye are a perfect fit with our family of artists! For many years, they've sung for audiences around the world and now we're excited to release their music to an equally broad radio audience! Reggie & Ladye possess two of the most dynamic voices in gospel music today and we believe the response to their latest release is going to be overwhelmingly positive!"
Musically, Reggie & Ladye Love Smith's versatile voices and broad range of influences lend themselves to a variety of styles, from country to big band to contemporary worship. Yet in all of its refreshing variety, the music of Reggie and Ladye Love Smith always retains their signature, heart-melting sound. With smooth, soulful vocals and impeccable musicianship, their communication beautifully reflects what is true of them both on and off stage... authenticity.



Woody Wright

Kramer is equally excited about the addition of veteran artist, Woody Wright, to the label. "I, like most fans of the Gaither Homecoming Specials, had come to know of Woody Wright through his rendition of "Back Home Again" from the "Rocky Mountain Homecoming Special". However, when I first considered Woody as a host for our label's radio program, I began to learn more about his music and solo recordings. Upon hearing the sound clips from his website, I was absolutely floored by the strength of his songwriting, the quality of his voice and the sonic excellence of his recordings! Audiences have only heard the 'tip of the iceberg' with regards to Woody Wright's music and I'm convinced the public will be amazed when they hear the full body of his work!"
Woody Wright has also established himself as one of the premier songwriters in gospel music with nearly 50 artists recording his songs - several of which, having garnered Grammy and Dove Award nominations! The short list of those who have recorded his songs includes the Gaither Vocal Band, Charley Pride, Russ Taff, Jessy Dixon, Janet Paschal, Chonda Pierce, Mark Lowry, Barbara Fairchild, Jeff and Sheri Easter and Christ Church Choir.



Rachel West Kramer

The label also represents up and coming vocalist, Rachel West Kramer. Her third release on Electric Station Records entitled, "Jesus Is Calling - Hymns To Draw Us Nearer", features the beautiful arranging and piano skills of Tracey Phillips, orchestrations by Milton Smith, fiddle by Aubrey Haynie, bass by Craig Nelson, guitar by Kevin Williams, drums by Greg Ritchie and background vocals by Reggie and Ladye Love Smith. The project was tracked by Tommy Cooper at the legendary Quad Studios in Nashville and mixed by D. Scott Kramer at Electric Station Studio.
Rachel West Kramer's magnificent soprano voice, matched with her deep commitment to God, has developed her music ministry into a powerful and radiant witness for Christ. Her vocal artistry is inspiring and leaves a lasting impression on all who hear her.
Throughout 2011, Electric Station Records will provide each artist with radio promotion and public relation support. The first of three single releases from the label's roster will begin in February, 2011. They are as follows:
Woody Wright - "More Than Amazing" from his CD, "Brand New Song"
Reggie & Ladye Love Smith - "I Have Decided" from their Lari Goss produced CD, "Miracle"
Rachel West Kramer - "Softly & Tenderly with I Surrender All" from her third release on Electric Station Records, "Jesus Is Calling - Hymns To Draw Us Nearer"

The label also produces gospel music's newest radio program, "Good News Music Radio with Woody Wright". Since the first airing in September, 2010, the program has already been added to 56 domestic and international stations! Each weekly program is packed with an hour of great gospel music, interviews with some of today's top gospel artists, encouraging ministry and fun times with Woody Wright and D. Scott Kramer. For more information on this program and its availability, check the website at www.goodnewsmusicradio.com.

Electric Station Records is based in Illinois and is the label home to Woody Wright, Reggie & Ladye Love Smith and Rachel West Kramer. They also produce the internationally syndicated radio program, "Good News Music Radio with Woody Wright". For more information on Electric Station Records, visit www.estationrecords.com. For more information on Woody Wright, visit www.woodywright.net, for Reggie and Ladye Love Smith visit, www.reggieandladyelove.com, for Rachel West Kramer visit, www.rachelwestkramer.com. D. Scott Kramer can be contacted via email at: dskramer@mtco.com or by calling Electric Station Records at (309) 383-2828.

JEFF & SHERI EASTER JOIN DREAM CENTER AND KIRK WHALUM FOR "IT STARTED WITH A DREAM"

GRAMMY® Awards Nominees Jeff & Sheri Easter
to Join THE DREAM CENTER and GRAMMY® Nominee
KIRK WHALUM AND VICTORY UNIVERSITY for
“IT STARTED WITH A DREAM” Event This Sunday

PRE-GRAMMY® AWARDS CONCERT AND SERVICE HONORS
GRAMMY® NOMINEES IN ALL GOSPEL MUSIC CATAGORIES
(Contemporary, Pop, R&B, Traditional, Rock, Rap, Southern, Country & Bluegrass)

WHAT: Sunday, February 13, THE DREAM CENTER, twelve-time GRAMMY® Award Nominee Kirk Whalum and Victory University are hosting “IT STARTED WITH A DREAM.” In celebration of this year’s Gospel GRAMMY® Nominees, the event is a pre-awards ceremony, concert and service honoring the nominees and benefiting THE DREAM CENTER’s PROJECT HOPE. “IT STARTED WITH A DREAM” will feature live performances by GRAMMY® Nominees; Israel Houghton, Lalah Hathaway, Jeff & Sheri Easter, Kirk Whalum with special guest George Duke and others to be announced from all fields in the Gospel category.

WHEN: Sunday, February 13, 2011
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

WHERE: Angelus Temple
1100 Glendale Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90026
The FREE EVENT is open to all that can attend. The concerts stellar performances will be streamed live on the web at DreamCenterLive.com inviting the entire world to view for $4.99 with proceeds benefitting Project Hope.
The vision of PROJECT HOPE is to provide a restoration home for immediate care to those rescued from human trafficking; rebuild one’s physical, mental and spiritual wholeness; and prepare individuals toward returning to society. Project Hope exists for the purpose of helping the lives of individuals who have fallen victim to human trafficking. This home offers a safe place to rebuild lives based on biblical principles. The home will focus on the specific needs for each individual.
JEFF & SHERI EASTER
Two-time GRAMMY®-nominated Jeff & Sheri Easter are Gospel music treasures, featured regularly on the Gaither HOMECOMING videos and international HOMECOMING tours in addition to their own heavy schedule of appearances. Jeff & Sheri are the recipients of six GMA DOVE Awards, 15 Singing News Fan Awards, three Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music Association Awards, two International Country Gospel Music Association honors, 16 Voice Awards, four Southern Gospel Music Fan Fair Awards, five SGN Scoops Diamond Awards, four Hearts Aflame Awards and three Cash Box Awards. Formed in 1988 following childhoods as part of their respective, nationally-known family groups—The Lewis Family and The Easter Brothers, the married couple is joined today on stage by their children—Madison and Morgan Easter—who round out the group. The group is known for such hits as “Roses Will Bloom Again,” “Praise His Name,” “Thread of Hope,” “Speak to the Mountain” and many others including “Born to Climb,” which garnered a 2010 DOVE Award. They are nominated for a 2011 GRAMMY® Award for their Expecting Good Things (Spring Hill Music) recording.
KIRK WHALUM
Saxophonist, Kirk Whalum will host the event and perform with his band. Kirk has been a recording artist for 25 years and has over 25 solo recordings to date. He has received numerous awards and acknowledgements for his musical excellence including twelve GRAMMY® nominations (four this year which include two for his most current release; The Gospel According to Jazz, Chapter III), two Dove Award nominations, a NAACP Image Awards nomination, and he has won two Stellar Awards. Kirk is a ordained minister with a Masters of Art in Religion. He was recently appointed CEO/President of the STAX Music Academy and the STAX Museum of American Soul Music in his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee. Please visit www.facebook.com/KirkWhalum www.KirkWhalum.com.
MATTHEW BARNETT
Matthew Barnett, co-founder of THE DREAM CENTER and senior pastor of ANGELUS TEMPLE, will co-host the event. THE DREAM CENTER – located at the former Queen of Angels Hospital, is now a refuge for the city of Los Angeles’ homeless, abandoned teens, gang members and those suffering from drug and alcohol addiction. Los Angeles is being changed daily through THE DREAM CENTER and most people in the city are unaware of it. On behalf of Barnett, we would love to invite you to experience “IT STARTED WITH A DREAM” first-hand. Please visit www.angelustemple.org.
THE DREAM CENTER
Through its numerous outreach programs, THE DREAM CENTER feeds over 40,000 people per month (one million pounds of food) and houses more than 500 people daily each week, meeting them with love and a helping hand at their greatest point of need. THE DREAM CENTER provides food, shelter, clothing, life rehabilitation, education, job training and numerous resources through its 273 programs and outreaches. From its humble beginnings in 1994, located in a formerly crime-infested neighborhood of Los Angeles, THE DREAM CENTER has become one of the outstanding models of transformation in America.
VICTORY UNIVERSITY
Victory University is a Christian liberal arts college committed to academic excellence and the joining of faith, rigorous academic inquiry, and action guided by a biblical worldview. Building upon a challenging curriculum in the classroom, Victory embraces the richness and diversity of its urban community as an extension of its campus. Victory strives to set the standard among Christian colleges as a place where students are mentored by a strong and caring Christian faculty and Christian area leaders learn that knowledge and faith can transform communities and advance God’s purposes in the world.

Pictured above: Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal congratulates Jeff & Sheri Easter on their GRAMMY® nomination
at the Atlanta GRAMMY® Party honoring Georgia nominees at The W Hotel in Atlanta GA
on Thursday January 27 2011. (photo, L-R) Group members Jeff and Morgan Easter,
Gov. Nathan Deal and Sheri Easter

Wilburn & Wilburn Added As Featured Performer at First “Diamond Awards On Tour” Show

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – (February 7, 2011) – Coastal Media Group and SGN Scoops Digital, home of the Diamond Awards, are excited to announce the addition of new Southern Gospel duo Wilburn & Wilburn to the upcoming “Diamond Awards On Tour” opening show this week in Nashville, Tennessee.

Wilburn & Wilburn is a brand new duo to hit the Gospel music scene this year. The group consists of 5-tive Singing News Fan Award winner Jonathan Wilburn and his son Jordan. Jonathan made a name for himself while traveling with Southern Gospel mainstays Gold City and his own family group The Wilburns. This father and son group combines a solid foundation of "old school” with a flare of youthful presence to bring the message of Christ in song. After years of prayer, Wilburn & Wilburn are now on the road. They have a vision to bring fathers, sons, mothers, and daughters close again by expressing their love for one another through songs of faith and inspiration.

Rob Patz of Coastal Media Group said, “The buzz surrounding Wilburn & Wilburn is already deafening. We are so excited about adding them to the first date of our ‘Diamond Awards on Tour’ shows. We know that the people of Nashville will fall in love with these guys just like we have.”

"What a blessing it is to be a part of the ‘Diamond awards On Tour’,” mentioned Jonathan Wilburn. “I feel weird being the old guy on the program! I look forward to seeing all of my Middle Tennessee friends at Trevecca!"

Set to take place this week in Nashville, Tennessee, the first show on this brand new tour will include performances from Driven Quartet, Beyond the Ashes, and Christy Sutherland in addition to Wilburn & Wilburn. The first date on the “Diamond Awards On Tour” experience will be on Thursday, February 10, 2011 in Nashville, Tennessee at Trevecca Nazarene University at the Boone Business Building Convocation Center started at 6:30 p.m.

The “Diamond Awards On Tour” is a new initiative designed to take the Diamond Awards experience across the country this year. The “Diamond Awards On Tour” concert series will hit major markets and universities in an effort to bring awareness to the Diamond Awards program and attract new readers to the already popular digital magazine.

This year’s Diamond Awards program will take place on Thursday, June 30, 2011 as a part of the 3rd Annual Branson Gospel Music Revival in Branson, Missouri.

The Diamond Awards are currently accepting nominations for the Top 10 Ballot in this year’s program. To find out how you can nominate your favorite artists, visit http://www.sgnscoops.com for more information.

Hosts, performers and sponsors for the 2011 Diamond Awards will be announced at a later date.

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 in each year. The awards show is based during the Branson Gospel Music Revival every July.

Christian Voice Magazine Announces 2011 SGM Fan Awards and Country Gospel Music Fan Awards Ballots

Nomination Ballots Now Available for Both Southern Gospel and Country Gospel Music Fan Awards

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2011 SGM Fan Awards as presented annually by Christian Voice magazine. The nomination ballot marks the first of a two-phase process in which Gospel music fans may list nominations for their favorite artists within the Southern Gospel music genre.

Christian Voice magazine has also announced the new Country Gospel Music Fan Awards, with the inaugural CGM Fan Awards ceremony being held this spring. Like the SGM Fan Awards, the initial nomination ballot is now available for fans to list nominations for their favorite Country Gospel artists.

Both ballots can be accessed by visiting ChristianVoiceMagazine.com. Nominations are being accepted through February 28, 2011. The final ballots listing the Top 5 finalists in each category will be available March 1, 2011.

Both awards ceremonies will be held in Pigeon Forge, TN at the Smoky Mountain Convention Center. The inaugural CGM Fan Awards will take place at 6pm, Saturday, April 30, 2011, and the 7th Annual SGM Fan Awards will take place at 6pm, Thursday, May 5th, 2011.

Visit ChristianVoiceMagazine.com to view voting guidelines and to access the SGM and CGM Fan Awards nomination ballots.

Support your favorite Southern and Country Gospel artists with your nominations and make plans to attend the CGM Fan Awards and the SGM Fan Awards in the beautiful Smoky Mountains this spring!

Legacy Five Announces New Pianist

From Legacy Five's email newsletter February 2/11:

Trey Ivey to join Legacy Five

Legacy Five is pleased to announce that 21 year old Trey Ivey will be joining Legacy Five as their new pianist. Trey is from Cleveland, Georgia but will soon make Nashville, Tennessee his new home.
Trey played the piano for The Mike Lefevre Quartet from November 2006 until March 2010 and most recently was the pianist for The Old Paths.
Scott Fowler of Legacy Five states, "I first heard Trey a couple of years ago at the National Quartet Convention in Louisville, Kentucky. I remember thinking then that this young man was a great player and would do nothing but get better. I made a mental note to myself to keep an eye on Trey. When Tim Parton announced he would be leaving, I knew I needed to make contact with Trey. All of the Legacy Five guys are excited to have Trey a part of our team."
Trey states, "I am so thankful that God allows me to do what I love to do. I am very excited about joining Legacy Five and look forward to seeing what the future holds. It is a real honor to follow in the footsteps of two of my heroes, Roger Bennett and Tim Parton."
Trey will begin traveling with Legacy Five on February 12, but will not officially assume the role of pianist until Tim's departure on February 28.
For more information, visit www.legacyfive.com

Vanessa Feltner Returns to Radio This Month

New Single Is Follow-Up to First Ever Charting Song – “God Will Provide”!


MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – (February 1, 2011) – Rising soloist and international recording artist Vanessa Feltner is excited about the release of her new single to Southern Gospel radio. The new single, titled “You Are Holy,” was released last month through the Rick Hendrix Company.

Chris Unthank, Editor-in-Chief of AbsolutelyGospel.com said, “There are so many exciting things happening in Vanessa’s ministry worldwide, so it’s exciting that we in the United States get to hear her music and be a part of her ministry. This song is just a beautiful worship song, and I can’t wait for people to hear it and worship along!”

“You Are Holy” is the fifth single from Vanessa to hit American airwaves. Her previous single, “God Will Provide,” became Vanessa’s first ever charting song on the Singing News Top 80 chart – the Southern Gospel industry’s most watched and respected airplay report.

“You Are Holy” is the title cut from Vanessa’s latest release. The new release will be available within the coming months. DJs interested in receiving the new singles should contact the Rick Hendrix Company or visit http://www.rickhendrix.com . “You Are Holy” has an immediate add date.

Vanessa recently signed an exclusive publicity agreement with Southern Spin Entertainment.

Until Vanessa’s new site is up and running, you can find out more information on her and her ministry by visiting her MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/vanessafeltnermusic or Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/vanessafeltner .

About Vanessa Feltner
Vanessa Feltner was raised singing Gospel music by her father – respected songwriter Charles Feltner (“I’ll See You In the Rapture”). She sang with her father for years until she was contracted to sing in five-star hotels throughout Asia, Europe, and the Middle East in 1994. She was privileged to sing for the President and Vice President of Indonesia twice and was hired by their country to compose songs for social campaigns and performed those songs at a concert for the political and government workers there. Vanessa is currently contracted in South Korea and will be returning to the States early next year.

Sunday Edition Announces Engagement of Chris Unthank to Noel Lowrance

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – (January 31, 2011) – Sunday Edition, one of Middle Tennessee’s favorite groups, is proud to announce the engagement of group member Chris Unthank to Noel Lowrance of Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

In addition to singing with Sunday Edition, Chris is the son of Deon & Susan Unthank (administrators of AbsolutelyGospel.com, formerly SoGospelNews.com – the internet’s largest e-zine dedicated to Southern Gospel music). He is also the co-founder of SSE Group, Inc., a publicity and web-publishing firm dedicated to assisting emerging artists in the field of Southern Gospel. Chris was recently appointed the editor-in-chief of AbsolutelyGospel.com earlier this month.

Noel, originally from Waco, Texas, currently resides in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. She is currently working as the church secretary at Turning Point Assembly of God, the couple’s home church. Noel is the daughter of Rev. Johnny and Brenda Lowrance. Rev. Lowrance was the writer of the hit song “Mender of Broken Wings.”

The happy couple has set the date for their wedding for Saturday, August 27, 2011. The wedding will take place at Turning Point Assembly of God in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The couple is planning to reside in Murfreesboro, Tennessee where Chris plans to remain a vital part of Sunday Edition, SSE Group, Inc. and AbsolutelyGospel.com.

For more information on the wedding, visit http://www.chrisandnoel.com.

For more information on Sunday Edition, visit them on the popular social networking site Facebook 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.

2nd Generation Named “One to Watch” For 2011

OAK GROVE, Ark. – (January 31, 2011) – Diamond Award winning trio 2nd Generation was recently named as one of 10 new artists to watch this year by AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com).

The article, called “Ones-to-Watch 2011: New Faces. Fresh Sounds.”, was a part of the December 15, 2010 update for the popular e-zine and mentioned new artists that the staff of AGM felt would make the biggest impact in 2011.

The article had this to say about 2nd Generation, “Brenda Denney and Elaine Robinson started 2nd Generation five years ago with their brother and took their name from being the 2nd generation in their family to enter into music ministry. Rocky Logan is now the group's third member! This group has been making great waves over the years - including the Diamond Award win for the Sunrise Award this past summer, and a nominations for Fan Favorite Artist of the Year in the 2009 SGN Music Awards!”

Brenda Denney of 2nd Generation said, “We are absolutely thrilled to mentioned in a group with so many great artists – many of which are our friends or people that we have come to admire over our time on the road. We are privileged to be mentioned as ‘ones-to-watch’ and hope that we can live up to the expectations put before us!”

2nd Generation was included alongside such names as Freedom, Statement of Faith Trio, The Taylors, Rod Burton, and others. To read the entire article – visit http://absolutelygospel.com/index/content/articles/feature-ones-to-watch-2011-new-faces.-fresh-sounds/ .

In addition, 2nd Generation ranked two songs on the AbsolutelyGospel.com Top 100 Songs of 2010 chart. The group’s hit singles “The Blood Covered It All” and “I’ll Not Fear the Crossing” ranked at #54 and #67 respectively according to the year-end figures of the AbsolutelyGospel.com Top 40 Weekly Chart.

“Radio has been so kind to us,” mentioned Elaine Robinson of 2nd Generation. “We are thankful for the love they have shown us this year, and we look forward to an even better 2011!”

You can view the entire list by visiting http://absolutelygospel.com/index/content/articles/feature-top-100-songs-of-2010/ .

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 four hit singles including the #1 Fan Favorite songs “Feel the Joy” and “The Blood Covered It All.”