Randy and Wendi Pierce to be Showcased at Gospel Music Fan Fair

(Nashville, TN) Popular duet, Randy and Wendi Pierce of Nashville, will be taking part in the 17th Annual Gospel Music Fan Fair in Somerset, KY this May as featured artists on the Patterson Promotions showcase. The duet has realized success with their original, “Pick up Your Cross” debuting at # 69 on the May Singing News charts. The song is also in the # 1 position on Southern Gospel Times. Randy & Wendi made their move to Nashville from Oklahoma and quickly started being heard on the USAGEM stage, the Sunday Mornin’ Country show during CMA week on the Grand Ole Opry; doing backup vocals in the Country Chorale, and being booked for area church concerts. The duet was featured artists at a USAGEM event this year at the Musician’s Union on Music Row, and will again take part in the National Quartet Convention this year in Pigeon Forge, TN. For a free press kit or management questions contact Evie@EHA-Nashville.com or call Evie Hawkins: 615-856-0910. DJ’s contact Patterson Promotions: 606-528-0033 Visit the duet on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Randy.and.Wendi.Pierce

NELONS PARTNER WITH MANNA

Atlanta, GA – Popular multi-award winning vocal group, The Nelons, have teamed with MANNA Worldwide to help rescue 60 orphans in Guatemala. The Central American nation has countless orphans throughout the country, but the future for 60 children will be dramatically impacted thanks to a brand new orphanage, sponsored by Jason Clark and his wife, Kelly Nelon Clark. Opening during the summer of 2014, The Nelons and MANNA Worldwide are partnering to raise the remaining funds needed to launch this rescue operation.
In the fall of 2013, Jason and Kelly, along with daughters, Amber and Autumn, led a survey trip to Guatemala. “During this time,” Jason recalls, “God began to prepare our hearts and inspire us to dream the impossible. We’ve been involved in various Global Mission Ministries throughout the years; however, providing for 60 children’s lives seemed truly impossible to me. The great thing is that God has already begun performing miracles! We have a building, a wonderful partnership with MANNA Worldwide, overseers, volunteers and a missionary family to help run this huge operation. We are beyond thrilled at the privilege of rescuing children and having the opportunity to care for them. We are helping develop these precious young lives for the glory of Christ. What a true honor this is for us.”
MANNA Worldwide has been caring for and feeding children over the last 14 years. The organization operates in 40 countries with 118 nutrition centers, medical clinics, and schools. They also currently operate 17 orphanages that care for children around the world. MANNA Worldwide has a consistent, proven track record for ministry and is committed to providing for the well being of more than 13,000 children every day. Bruce O’Neal, the founder and President of MANNA Worldwide remarks, “Partnering with The Nelons is a wonderful example of the body of Christ coming together to care for the less fortunate in the world. I could not be more pleased that MANNA and The Nelons will be working together in Guatemala.”
“During our trip to Guatemala,” Kelly shares, “we fell in love with the people of this country, especially the children. It moved me to tears to watch my girls play and share with these precious kids who just need to know they are loved. I told Jason at that very moment, that we just had to do more.”
The Guatemalan orphanage being built will be ready to house children on the first floor starting this summer. This partnership between The Nelons and MANNA Worldwide will be long-term, in an effort to sustain the orphanage. “With their years of experience and integrity in the field, MANNA is the perfect organization to partner with us in launching The Nelon Kid’s project at Hogar de Ninos de Mana (MANNA’s Children Home),” Jason states. “We will be sharing information about our work in Guatemala with our friends all across the country. We’d like all our friends to have the opportunity to be a part of this heart-moving work. We’ll be taking another trip to visit the Orphanage once we get up and running later in the year, and we would love to take a lot of our friends with us. We’ll be sharing more information about that trip in the weeks to come. Together, we can help so many kids that simply cannot help themselves.”
More information regarding this particular project, as well as MANNA Worldwide is available at www.mannaworldwide.com/Nelons or at www.theNelons.com.

Gene McDonald Heads Up North

Nashville, TN (April 23, 2014) Join Gene McDonald, superb bass singer from the Gaither Homecoming Concerts as he ministers up north this weekend.

Gene is headed to Hillsdale, MI on Saturday, April 26th at the Gospel Barn at 7PM along with the Skyline Boys. It's always a fun time when those two get together.

After a great night with the Skyline Boys, Gene moves on the next morning, Sunday, April 27th to Taylor, MI at Heritage Free Will Baptist Church , 12670 Pardee Road - 11AM. You can call 313-802-2526 for more information about the service.

Finishing out the weekend Gene will be traveling to the great state of Ohio at the Living Hope Free Methodist Church, 1051 West Jackson, West Unity, OH at 6:30PM.

It is always a refreshing time of ministry and great music when Gene McDonald is in the building.

Learn more about Gene McDonald at http://www.genemcdonaldmusic.com or https://www.facebook.com/genemcdonaldmusic .

If you would like to book Gene for a concert or other event, feel free to contact J and C Agency at

662-664-3596 or email: booking@genemcdonaldmusic.com .



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About Gene McDonald

Gene McDonald started his career with his family group singing tenor. He then sang tenor with Jack Campbell and the Ambassadors through his school years. “One day I woke up and my voice was a couple of octaves lower and I was a bass singer.” commented Gene about his low vocal abilities.

While at Arkansas State University, he studied under one of the leading choral directors in the nation, Al Skoog. He later went to Ben Speer School of Music.
In 1989, Gene began singing with the Plainsmen Quartet and toured with them until 1992. He later went on to sing and record hits with the Florida Boys, touring from 1998 to 2007. Gaither Productions invited Gene to join the Homecoming Family for his first taping in 1994. He currently still travels with the Homecoming Friends across the globe.
Gene has a great gift and one of the richest voices ever heard. Noted by Bill Gaither as the Dean of all Bass’, Gene is held at high esteem for being the best in the circuit. However, he is MORE than just the best Bass singer. He does have the most prominent Bass voice, but he is by far, one of the “best singers” to ever grace the stage. God has given this man a great gift, a great talent.

Rev. Zeke Hoskins Passes Away

Middleton, OH (April 23, 2014) Rev. Zeke Hoskins, father of the Hoskins Family's Rick Hoskins, passed away on Friday April 18th.

He evangelized all across the country for 26 years as well as pastoring 4 churches. Rev. Hoskins also sang as well as preached and was strong in his bluegrass roots. The Gospel group, The Country Gospel Aires, was founded by Rev. Hoskins. He traveled with his sons Rick and Mike Hoskins around the nation.

Rev. Hoskins was truly the inspiration for the Hoskins Family we have on the Southern Gospel trails today. He put God and his faith above everything.

His Obituary follows:



HOSKINS, Rev. Zeke age 86 of Middletown passed away Fri. April 18, 2014. Zeke was a lifelong minister in various churches in the area. He spent his years preaching the gospel and enjoying music, boating, fishing, and hunting. He was also a former superintendent at Walnut Grove Country Club. He was preceded in death by his wife Sarah in 1998; one son Mike Hoskins; two daughters Vanessa Romine and Lolanda Chasteen; three grandchildren David Hoskins, Ricky Johnson, and Lonnie Johnson; two great grandchildren Shelby Lynn Hoskins and Lillian Hope Topping; one brother Ruey Hoskins; and two sisters Ruby Landrum and Mary Couch. He is survived by two sons Rick (Reva) Hoskins and John (Karen) Hoskins, two daughters Pamela Johnson and Patricia (Eric) Hansen, 19 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandson, one brother Hilery (Louise) Hoskins, and two sisters Wanda Mae Moore and Elsie (Coleman) Couch. Funeral services 11 AM Wed. April 23 at Victory Tabernacle, Franklin. Rev. Todd Willman officiating. Burial will be in Miami Cemetery, Corwin. The family will receive friends 5-8 PM Tues. at the church. Stubbs-Conner Funeral Home, Waynesville is serving the family. Condolences at www.stubbsconner.com.

You can learn more about the Hoskins Family at http://www.hoskinsworld.com.

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About The Hoskins Family
God, who is the giver of all gifts and abilities, equips individuals with talent and places within them the desire to use that talent for him. Through prayer, trusting God and obedience to His will, those desires are fulfilled and the results are immeasurable. Abby, Angie, Reva, Rick and Ricky, collectively known as the Hoskins Family, are seeing those results as God takes their ministry to new heights every day.
The Hoskins Family is made up of Angie (Hoskins) Aldridge, Reva Hoskins, Abby Aldridge, Ricky Hoskins and Rick Smith.
The Hoskins Family’s first top 40 song, taken from the project of the same name, was a special one to their family. “Mission Of Love” was written by Angie (Hoskins) Aldridge for her grandfather, who was also her pastor. In fact Ricky, Reva and Angie’s ministry was solely committed to their home church until Reva’s father’s retirement from pastoral ministry. It was then that The Hoskins Family felt God called them to a different venture.
“Help Me Stand,” The Hoskins Family’s follow-up single to “Mission Of Love” proved to be their first top 20 hit, reassuring them that they were headed in the right direction. Within 1 1⁄2 years The Hoskins Family had their first top 5 hit with “Joyful Morning,” from their “Hope” project. This was followed by the top 10 hit “I Wouldn’t Trade One Minute Of It.”
“Safe Thus Far” just might be the definitive recording that all their others are compared to. The Daywind project contains songs from some of today’s premier writers and is definitely a “Must Have” album. The first release from this album proved to be their first #1 song. This album was nominated for six Dove Awards.

The Williamsons To Perform At The Great Passion Play

Wetumka, OK (April 23, 2014) The award winning Williamsons of Wetumka, Oklahoma have been invited to perform for opening night of this year’s season of The Great Passion Play in Eureka Springs, Arkansas on May 2, 2014.

Darin Hebert, popular bass singer for The Williamsons, said, “We are humbled to be asked to participate at such a great event. Great things have been happening in Eureka Springs and The Williamsons are excited to be a part.”

Manager of the group, Donnie Williamson shared that in mid-December 2012 he received a call informing him that The Great Passion Play was going in to foreclosure on January 1. The Williamsons joined forces with The Gospel Station of Ada, Oklahoma and several business leaders and other concerned individuals in the Eureka Springs area and they raised $75,000.00 about three weeks. This was enough to satisfy creditors and hold off the foreclosure. 2013 proved to be the best season the park had seen in years. Attendance grew last season by at least 30% and even greater things are expected for 2014.

The park also plans to expose visitors to even more Gospel music in 2014 with their first major concert promotion on June 21 and 22. The Williamsons will be performing there again with other talented artist such at The Freemans, The Nelons, and Red Roots.

You can learn more about The Williamsons at www.williamsonsmusic.com or https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Williamsons/154798661203832 .

The Williamsons are booked through The Dominion Agency at 828-454-5900.

Find out more about the Great Passion Play at https://www.facebook.com/GreatPassionPlay .

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About The Williamsons

The Williamsons began sharing the Gospel through music in 1998 as The Homesteaders Quartet. The dream of Donnie Williamson was to form a group to sing classic Gospel music on a limited basis. What he wanted to do never occurred. From the group's onset their demand was overwhelming. Soon they were performing more than 100 dates a year. For the past several years The Williamsons have been in full time Christian ministry and entertainment and have traveled across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Their music has been in national charts and were they honored to be nominated to the Gospel Music Association for a Dove Award.

Their high energy musical style appeals to people of all ages. The versatility of The Williamsons is evident through the wide variety of musical styles they perform. There is always something for everyone. The marketing of their performances targets families and not just fans of any particular type of music. Spending an evening with The Williamsons is sure to be one that will lift you up, bless you, and entertain you all at the same time. Their primary desire is to share the Gospel in such a way that those in attendance who do not know Jesus Christ will come to know him before the program is over.

Jonathan Wilburn and Daywind Records Present 'The Best Of Jonathan Wilburn'

CD Sales To Benefit Do-Re-Mi Music School

Gadsden, AL (April 22, 2014) Jonathan Wilburn and Daywind Records are proud to announce the release of a Special new project by former Gold City lead singer Jonathan Wilburn. A portion of every CD sale through May 31st will be donated to the Do-Re-Me Gospel Music Academy in Hartsville, TN.

The Do-Re-Mi Academy is a music school where young and old alike learn the fundamentals of singing, stage presence, and the nearly forgotten art of sight reading music. Held in the summer of each year, this year's school will be June 8th - 14th .

Jonathan Wilburn stated “A portion from the sale of every CD will go to the Do-Re-Mi Academy of Gospel Music. Let's get the word out and send some kids to school. This is where I fell in love with this awesome music. I guess you could say that I am who I am today because of the training I learned at this school.”

This new CD is full of great hits performed by Jonathan during his 12 year reign with Gold City, the nation's premier Gospel quartet. Featuring such songs as “He Said”, “I'm Not Giving Up”, “Midnight Cry”, “There Rose A Lamb” and many more, this is one CD you will be keeping in your player.

You can learn more about Wilburn and Wilburn at http://www.wilburn2.com or https://www.facebook.com/WilburnandWilburn .

Wilburn and Wilburn are booked by the Beckie Simmons Agency http://www.bsaworld.com or call 615-595-7500.

To learn more about Daywind Records go to http://www.daywindrecords.com .

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About Wilburn & Wilburn

Wilburn & Wilburn, the Father – Son team of Jonathan and Jordan Wilburn are continuing the tradition for three generations. Jonathan spent the first 16 years of his Southern Gospel Music career singing with his family, the Wilburns, one of Gospel Music’s most beloved and respected families.

In 1996 Jonathan would move to Gadsden, Alabama where he would anchor the lead position with Gold City for the next 12 years.



Adding a dimension to this group is Jonathan's son Jordan. Feeling his call to sing Gospel music at a young age, it is a great match of Father and Son to create an awesome sound and an excitement that enhances any worship service.

CATHEDRALS FAMILY REUNION RETURNS HOME TO AKRON, OH

Select Tour Dates Announced Due To Overwhelming Demand

Posted on April 22, 2014
April 22, 2013 (Nashville, TN) – Today IMC Management, in association with Showcase Media, announced plans for the Cathedrals Family Reunion Tour in select cities. Due to the overwhelming response to the original event held in Dallas, TX in November 2013, organizers have planned for six special weekends during 2014 and 2015 that will place the event within 500 miles of most of the population of the United States.

It all kicks off where it all began, in Akron, Ohio - the birthplace of the Cathedral Quartet. The Akron Civic Center will welcome Cathedral aficionados November 7-8, 2014 as Danny Funderburk, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Greater Vision, Legacy Five, and the Mark Trammell Quartet, once again, join together to honor the legacy of the Cathedral Quartet.

Today Scott Fowler, Danny Funderburk, Ernie Haase, Mark Trammell and Gerald Wolfe made the special announcement in a video from the Younce family home in Akron.

As with the original event, each weekend will focus on celebrating the legacy of the iconic Cathedral Quartet, featuring music from each of the current artists as well as the very special Cathedrals Family Reunion quartet. The weekend event will also feature memorabilia displays, special matinees, a behind the scenes Q&A, a chance to tour "Silhouette," the last tour bus the Cathedrals used and much more!

"We planned the original Cathedrals Family Reunion as a one-time weekend event," said Landon Beene, IMC Management. "Immediately after the event and consistently, the IMC Concerts office and the artists were flooded with requests to "do it again" or "take it on tour." Today, we are excited to announce that we have heard your voice and we are taking the Cathedrals Family Reunion on the road!"

WATCH VIDEO ANNOUNCEMENT HERE:

Each tour city has been strategically planned to be within a 500-mile radius of most of the United States of America so that as many people as possible can experience this wonderful weekend of music and memories.

In addition to the tour, a preview of the Cathedrals Family Reunion event will take place during a special matinee performance at the 2014 NQC in Pigeon Forge, TN this September.

Tickets for the hometown weekend in Akron, OH will go on sale April 28, 2014 at 10:00 AM EST. More information can be found online at www.CathedralsFamilyReunion.com
CATHEDRALS FAMILY REUNION DATES:
Sept. 24, 2014 - Pigeon Forge, TN (Matinee preview performance only)
Nov. 7-8, 2014 - Akron, OH
Nov. 14-15, 2014 - Fort Worth, TX
Jan. 16-15, 2015 - Orlando, FL
Apr. 24-25, 2015 - Denver, CO
Jul. 17-18, 2015 - Lancaster, PA
Oct. 9-10, 2015 - Branson, MO
*More to be announced at a later date!

More information:
www.CathedralsFamilyReuninon.com
www.IMCconcerts.com

GREAT WESTERN FAN FESTIVAL SET FOR MAY 1-3, 2014 IN VISALIA, CA

Gospel Music Greats Head West for Annual Music Fest

April 21, 2013 (Nashville, TN) – Visalia, CA is set to welcome the Great Western Fan Festival to the Visalia Convention Center. The annual event welcomes an all-star lineup to the West Coast from May 1-3, 2014.

The weekend will be filled with great gospel music, chapel services, special matinees, a special breakfast club, comedy showcase, and more - all designed to bring the attendees up close and personal with the artists.

The Great Western Fan Festival Talent Contest, held on Saturday morning, will award a Grand Prize of a recording package to one winner. A 1st place winner will be selected in three categories - soloist, duet/trio and group.

An all-star lineup of gospel greats will perform during the weekend including The Hoppers, Triumphant Quartet, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Greater Vision, Legacy Five, The Martins, The Browns, Tim Lovelace, Kim Hopper, TaRanda Greene, RSV, California Melody Boys, and Liberty Quartet.

For tickets, more information and to connect with the festival, call iTickets at 1-800-965-9324 or visit the following sites:
www.FanFestivals.com
www.Facebook.com/GreatWesternFanFestival
Twitter: @GospelFanFest
Instagram: FanFestival

2014 Diamond Award Nominations

SGN Scoops would like to thank you for taking the time to nominate your favorite artists for the 2014 Diamond Awards! We had more people than ever sign on to the nominations survey and for that we thank you. The more people that have their voice heard, the more the winners will reflect the preferences of all of our readers!

I have now a second favor to ask. Would you please take a moment and review the nominated artists and then pick your favorites out of the Top Ten. You can choose up to three names in each category!

Thank you for taking the time to let us know who you would like to receive the 2014 Diamond Awards. We value your choices and we value you! The 2014 Diamond Award survey can be found at http://www.sgnscoops.com/2014/04/04/2014-diamond-awards-top-10/

Don't forget to make your plans to attend the Diamond Awards gala event at the 2014 Creekside Gospel Music Convention, November 3 - 6, 2014, in beautiful Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. We would love to have you join us for this unique event! For more information, go to: http://www.creeksidegospelmusicconvention.com/

The Pathfinders Release New Video

Nashville, TN (April 18, 2014) Godsey and Associates are proud to announce the release of the Pathfinders new video “Let My Light Shine”.

This well constructed video tells the story of how one can witness anywhere, even in the confines of your own home. The story line shows how a Grandmother can let her light shine even to her Grandson and the importance of living her life to show the love of Christ.

The quality of this video is superb, the message is strong and the singing is just plain good.

The Pathfinders are an excellent mixed trio who have had multiple single releases. This included several Top 80 songs on the Singing News charts and a single from their latest CD, “Mercy Answered” being named as one of the top 10 new releases. In addition, they have had several Top 40 songs on other industry charts.

Below is a link to view the video:

http://youtu.be/mMcI42otSww


You can learn more about The Pathfinders at http://thepathfinders.com .


You can learn more about Godsey and Associates at http://godseyandassociates.com or https://www.facebook.com/pages/Godsey-and-Associates/164948040274991 .

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About Godsey and Associates
In the last quarter of 2011, Scott Godsey started a team making music videos for Christian artists. That soon developed into not only working inside the Christian music business, but going outside of the Christian music world. Soon after, the company expanded into other genres. G&A started working with churches, authors, and organizations. The Godsey & Associate formula works with any company that wants to focus on brand building and getting in front of an audience.

2014 AGM Awards Handed Out

The Isaacs and Karen Peck & New River Named Big Winners

Nashville, Tennessee - (April 17, 2014) - The 2014 Absolutely Gospel Music (AGM) Awards were handed out this week at a special concert celebration in Smyrna, Tennessee. The Isaacs were the night’s big winners.

The Isaacs took home five awards during the program. The group was awarded their second consecutive Mixed Group of the Year title and first ever Best Live Performer. Ben Isaacs took home Producer of the Year (Artist) while songwriting sibling Becky & Sonya Isaacs won Songwriter of the Year (Artist). Becky Isaacs Bowman was also recognized as Musician of the Year for the first time in her career.

Perennial favorites Karen Peck & New River took home an outstanding three awards as well. The group won their third consecutive Song of the Year title (for the #1 hit “Revival”). The group also won the coveted Album of the Year ovation (for Revival) as well as Progressive Song of the Year (also for “Revival”).

Songwriter Kenna West was the most awarded individual of the night, winning Song of the Year and Progressive Song of the Year (for co-writing “Revival” with Karen Peck Gooch and Don Poythress) and Country Song of the Year (for co-writing “Voice In the Desert” with Lee Black and Jason Cox).

Additional artists and individuals who won multiple awards throughout the evening included the Bowling Family, Sisters, Don Poythress, Wayne Haun, Dianne Wilkinson, Karen Peck Gooch, and Jeff Easter.

One of the biggest awards of the evening – 2014 Pacesetter Award – was handed to the Write About Jesus Conference – a songwriting retreat hosted by celebrated songwriter Sue C. Smith.

The staff of AbsolutelyGospel.com and the Unthank family was proud to award the Susan Unthank Memorial Award to Kathy Crabb Hannah. This award honors women who have worked in this field of music and made a resounding impact on Southern Gospel music. In addition to the Susan Unthank Memorial Award, Kathy was awarded the 2005 Pacesetter Award for her work as manager of the Crabb Family.

The event was hosted by Karen Peck Gooch (of Karen Peck & New River) and Kelly Nelon Clark (of The Nelons). The evening featured show-shopping performances from the Isaacs, Karen Peck & New River, Tribute Quartet, The Nelons, Jeff & Sheri Easter, the Sneed Family, the Browders, the Bowling Family, Adam Crabb, Beyond the Ashes, Jim & Melissa Brady, the Freemans, and songwriters Kenna West, Sue C. Smith and Jason Cox. The evening concluded with a special multi-artist musical tribute to the Easter Brothers which was hosted by Jeff Easter and featured special guests Dailey & Vincent.

“We are just ecstatic with this year’s program,” mentioned Deon Unthank of AbsolutelyGospel.com. “Though we had to fight through some technical issues with sound and our live feed at the beginning of the show, we still had a record setting number of viewers online and in attendance at the live show. We already are making big plans for next year’s Celebration!”

The Absolutely Gospel Music Awards are an annual award handed out each year by the staff at AbsolutelyGospel.com. Each January, the staff and select media representative decide upon the nominees in over twenty categories. In February of that year, the readers of the site are then allowed to vote for their favorites in 12 categories. This is the thirteenth year the awards have been in existence.

For more information, visit www.absolutelygospel.com

2014 Absolutely Gospel Music Award Winners

Song of the Year: "Revival" - Karen Peck and New River (written by Karen Peck Gooch, Don Poythress, and Kenna West)

Album of the Year: Revival - Karen Peck & New River (produced by Wayne Haun)

Pacesetter: Write About Jesus Conference

Breakthrough Artist of the Year: Sneed Family

Male Vocalist of the Year: Mike Bowling (Bowling Family)

Female Vocalist of the Year: Amber Nelon Thompson (The Nelons)

Male Group of the Year: Booth Brothers

Female Group of the Year: Sisters

Mixed Group of the Year: The Isaacs

Songwriter of the Year (Artist): Becky & Sonya Isaacs (The Isaacs)

Songwriter of the Year (Professional): Dianne Wilkinson

Producer of the Year (Artist): Ben Isaacs (The Isaacs)

Producer of the Year (Professional): Michael Sykes

Engineer of the Year: Kevin Ward

Musician of the Year: Becky Isaacs Bowman (The Isaacs)

Traditional Song of the Year: "Good News From Jerusalem" - Tribute Quartet (written by Jerry Salley & Dianne Wilkinson)

Traditional Album of the Year: The Greatest Story - Triumphant Quartet (produced by Wayne Haun & Jeff Stice)

Progressive Song of the Year: "Revival” - Karen Peck & New River (written by Karen Peck Gooch, Don Poythress, and Kenna West)

Progressive Album of the Year: Classics Collection - Sisters (produced by Tim Parton)

Country Song of the Year: "Voice In the Desert” - The Freemans (written by Lee Black, Jason Cox, and Kenna West)

Country Album of the Year: Safe...After the Storm - Bowling Family (produced by Mike Bowling and Troy Peach)

Special Event Project of the Year: Like Father, Like Son - James & Jeff Easter (produced by James Easter, Jeff Easter, and Tim Surrett)

Best Live Performer: The Isaacs

Fan Favorite Artist of the Year: Jeff & Sheri Easter

Susan Unthank Memorial Award: Kathy Crabb Hannah

Jimmy Yeary – “I Drive Your Truck” Scores Big Again

Nashville, TN (April 10, 2014) Multi-award winning Country songwriter Jimmy Yeary is celebrating again. He and his co-writers Jessi Alexander and Connie Harrington have won another major award for their mega-hit “I Drive Your Truck” recorded by Lee Brice. The ACM honored this song with it's highest award on Sunday April 6th.

Lee Brice did take the stage, but the Song of the Year is awarded to the songwriters. He turned to the songwriters beside him on stage and stated, “This is not for me. This is for the writers.” He then turned the attention to Connie Harrington along with co-writers Jimmy Yeary and Jessi Alexander.

The Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music Awards are the two most prestigious awards a singer or songwriter can receive in their careers. “I Drive Your Truck” has captured the coveted Song of the Year category in both of these celebrated Awards. “I Drive Your Truck” is an emotionally moving song that has connected with the hearts and souls of people from all walks of life.

Jimmy Yeary stated “This song has done more to touch the lives of people than I ever dreamed. I feel I am a very fortunate man.”

Jimmy Yeary's number one accomplishments are numerous including "I Drive Your Truck" recorded by Lee Brice, "Anywhere With You" recorded by Jake Owen, "Why Wait" by Rascal Flats and "I'm Gonna Love You Through It" by Martina McBride. He was also a writer on the top ten Joe Diffie song "In Another World", which was his first radio success.

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About Jimmy Yeary

Jimmy Yeary (born in Hillsboro, Ohio) is an American Country Music singer and songwriter.
In 1994, Yeary moved to Nashville, Tennessee to begin a career as a recording artist. Although he was signed to Atlantic Records, a change in label personnel prevented his debut single from being released. Through the assistance of Paul Worley and Wally Wilson, Yeary found work as a songwriter. Among Yeary's co-writing credits are Joe Diffie's top 10 hit "In Another World", Rascal Flatts' number 1 single "Why Wait", Troy Olsen's "Summer Thing", Martina McBride's "I'm Gonna Love You Through It", Heidi Newfield's "Stay Up Late", and Lee Brice's "I Drive Your Truck". He has sung lead for Shenandoah and The Isaacs. Yeary is married to Country/Gospel singer Sonya Isaacs. The couple has one son, Ayden James Yeary, born on July 25, 2011.

Veteran bluegrass radio host, Appalachian musician and Western stunt performer dies at 94

Harmonica stylist and 60-year radio host Otis Head, age 94, of the Plainview Community, died Tuesday, April 8, 2014 at Heritage Health Care in Fort Oglethorpe, Ga. He was born near Prater’s Mill, North of Varnell, Ga. at Gobbler’s Knob.
Head was also a prizefighter, Western and Appalachian music promoter and performer and record producer. He began his performance career competing on a talent show in “Doc” Chamberlain’s Medicine Show hosted by country legend Rambin’ Tommy Scott in the late 1930’s.
As a producer, he fostered the careers of multi-million selling banjo stylist Raymond Fairchild; country singer Clyde Beavers and numerous bluegrass and gospel acts. He hosted seasonal western shows in Florida and North Carolina featuring an array of western-themed street plays featuring gunfights for audiences in western theme parks. Head was a quick draw pistol artist and usually played the role of the town marshal in the productions.
He promoted music shows in the Northwest Georgia area featuring Country Music Hall of Famers Bill Monroe and Charlie Louvin, Boys from Indiana, the Bailes Brothers, the Lewis Family, Randall Franks and Raymond Fairchild. His “Otis Head Show” and it predecessors ran on Dalton area radio for almost 60 years with his final live broadcast on WTTI in March 2014. He began hosting live radio shows featuring country and bluegrass in 1959 on WBLJ. He moved to WRCD for 28 years and finally settled at WTTI sharing bluegrass gospel for 27 years.
Head was an entrepreneur and entertainer that opened the Plainview Superette, a grocery store and restaurant, famous for his Otis Burger, north of Dalton, Ga. in the 1940s. Working to meet the changing needs of the community, his business location changed its focus from food to clothing, shoes to videos and finally to a tanning and hair salon.
He was a volunteer of the Share America Foundation donating his time to raise funds for scholarships encouraging youth in Appalachian music. Head was highlighted in Ramblin “Doc” Tommy Scott’s autobiography “Snake Oil, Superstars and Me” in 2007. He was inducted into the Atlanta County Music Hall of Honor for his contributions to music in 2008.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Cleo Head; his first wife, Floy Felker Head; his second wife, Mary Pittman Parris; brothers, Euelle, Floyd, Basil, William, and Dewey Head; sisters, Ruby, Edith, and Betty.
He is survived by his sons, Kenneth O. Head of Atlanta, Chris Davidson of Dalton, Judy (John) Hayes of Dalton; sister, Alise Cline of Palm Bay, Florida; grandchildren, Holly and Keith Rollins, Shana and Jim Medlen both of Dalton, and Glen and Danette Head of Memphis, TN; seven great-grandchildren; special niece, Connie Long; step-children, nephews, nieces; long time friends, Randall Franks, Don and Pam Poteet, Deborah Jones and listeners also survive.
The funeral service to honor the life of Mr. Head is Friday April 11, 2014 at 12:00 pm at the Pleasant Grove Chapel of Julian Peeples Funeral Home with Minister Brother Doyle Partin and Randall Franks officiating. Burial will be in Varnell Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the following: Central Church of Christ building fund, PO Box 1527 Dalton GA 30720 or the Share America Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 42, Tunnel Hill, Ga. 30755 (www.shareamericafoundation.org) or the American Cancer Society.

Southern Gospel Hall of Fame Marks 15 Years

Bronze plaques of the members of the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame highlight the careers of around 150 legends.


The Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame & Museum marks its 15th anniversary this April at Dollywood.
“The museum currently houses more than 3,000 artifacts and honors 155 members of the Southern Gospel music community,” said Southern Gospel Music Association President Arthur Rice. “The museum continues to grow.”
The Southern Gospel Music Association is a non-profit organization that maintains the Southern Gospel Museum and Hall of Fame, for the historic preservation of the accomplishments of the music and its people.
Since April 17, 1999, the museum just inside the gates of Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. has provided a wonderful opportunity for the park’s average 30,000 visitors per month to learn more about Southern gospel music.
Gospel legends Dr. Jerry Goff, James Blackwood, Eva Mae LeFevre, Eldridge Fox, Les Beasley, J.G. Whitfield and Bill Gaither cut the ribbon 15 years ago to open the only facility of its type solely dedicated to honoring a specific genre of Christian music.
“That was the day that the dreams, hard work and prayers of hundreds of people came together,” said Danny Jones, SGMA executive director. “Cherished memories are kept alive through the work of the SGMA staff. While the Hall of Fame does bring back some great memories, the museum is also a vital part of building the future of our music as we honor the legacy of artists and promote today’s music through an expanding marketplace and a new generation of music lovers.”
Museum hours match those of Dollywood and admission is included with park ticket.
“We’re honored that Dollywood continues to recognize the significance and importance of Southern Gospel music, and as both the SGMA and Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame & Museum we are grateful for their support and willingness to showcase this great music,” Rice said.
Donations are tax-deductible and individuals or businesses may also donate to assist with honoring inductees with special bronze plaques that are displayed in the Hall of Fame. For more information about the museum or its inductees, visit www.sgma.org.

New Outlook Releases "In The Shadows"

New Outlook is proud to announce the release of their second album "In The Shadows". The long awaited , all gospel project will be available April 11, 2014 to the public in a variety of avenues, including www.newoutlookbluegrass.com, I Tunes, Amazon and many more online digital stores.

New Outlook is a bluegrass group that features veteran performers and songwriters Brad & Lori Lambert, Caleb Daughtery, and Dewayne Guffey. Their sound offers, soulful, tight harmonies reminiscent of the bluegrass tradition, and when blended with the hard-driving instrumentation, this album promises to be a favorite of any bluegrass fan. The title cut "In the Shadows" , as well as two ther selections was penned by Brad Lambert.

The recording features Brad on banjo, Lori on upright bass, Caleb on guitar and Dewayne on mandolin, with guest appearances of Dave Johnson on fiddlle and dobro and Dave Morrison on dobro as well. Their debut project an all bluegrass project titled "Prepare to Believe" in addition to receiving nation-wide airplay received praise from many top performers and critics in the bluegrass community, while their live performances have been pleasing audiences across the nation for the past several years.

Radio hosts can download the project at www.airplaydirect.com/music/newoutlookbluegrass
Hard copies for radio hosts will also be available upon request via lorilyn4292@gmail.com

New Outlook will enjoy a busy touring schedule in 2014 to support their new project "In The Shadows" and another new release of their all bluegrass project that will be released in the Summer 2014. More information about their touring schedule can be found at www.newoutlookbluegrass.com

LaBreeska Hemphill Undergoes Brain Surgery

Gospel Music Icon Recovering Well at Home

(Nashville, TN) March 27, 2014 – LaBreeska Hemphill, matriarch of the legendary gospel music family The Hemphills, is recovering well from a recent brain surgery. Several weeks ago, LaBreeska began suffering from frequent headaches. After finding no relief, she decided to see a doctor. Upon a seemingly routine checkup, the doctors discovered a large mass pushing against LaBreeska’s brain, and she was rushed immediately to Vanderbilt Hospital to see a specialist. The diagnosis of a brain mass was confirmed, and surgery was scheduled. On March 14, what was supposed to be a three to five hour intense surgery, successfully ended in just an hour and a half. The doctor stated, "We have a sea of good news, and a best-case scenario." The biopsy of the mass returned benign, and LaBreeska is now home and recovering very well.

LaBreeska Hemphill commented: "It was the prayers of my precious family and friends and my Father God that made all the difference."

LaBreeska and the entire Hemphill family are extremely thankful for the kind words, prayers, acts of kindness, cards, food, and donations she has received during this trying time. Candy Hemphill Christmas says, “On behalf of my brothers, Trent and Joey, and my father, Joel Hemphill, thank you so much for your continued prayers and support! My Mother is the glue that holds this family together and we thank God that she is making a full recovery!”

To send a get-well card or love gift, please direct all correspondence to:
LaBreeska Hemphill
c/o Candy Christmas / The Bridge Ministry
P.O. Box 463
Goodlettsville, TN 37070

Absolutely Gospel Music Awards Gets New Look

Nashville, TN (March 28, 2014) When the Absolutely Gospel Music Awards were started 13 years ago a plaque was handed out, a few years later a contest was held to name the official award and the name Ovation was adopted. With that decision we wanted to keep things fresh, so the star shaped award was chosen. It was well received by most, although in some circles it was called a “doorstop”, nevertheless, the Ovation Award can be found in some prestigious curios and bookshelves, and who knows, maybe even behind a few doors.

Deon Unthank, President of AbsolutelyGospel.com stated “I really loved the look of the star shaped Ovation, however it was time to upgrade the award, but I couldn't find anything of the quality I was looking for and keep the star shape. I decided that if I was going to change the award now was the time to make it a complete change. My late wife, Susan, was always about change, so I am confident that she is smiling down from Heaven liking the new awards.”

The new AGM Awards are made of hand-blown glass and each one is unique so no two awards are alike, just as no two singers, songwriters, producers, engineers or songs are alike. Each person puts their own signature on any project they are involved in just as each of these awards are uniquely different. This feature makes the new awards more distinct than any other award given in Southern Gospel Music. The new award was shown to a few select artists and the reaction was all the same. The common phrase was 'Oh, that is beautiful, I love it.”

Editor in Chief of Absolutely Gospel, Chris Unthank stated “Keeping our high standards as the 'state of the art' in Gospel Music E-zines, change is inevitable and I like what we have done. The name of the award is still the Ovation.”

The new awards will be handed out at the 13th Annual Absolutely Gospel Music Awards on April 15th in Smryna, TN, at the River of Life Church at 7PM. Known as the “classiest” awards program in the Southern Gospel Music genre, you can still get your reserved seating tickets at seats@absolutelygospel.com.

For more information about the AGM Awards go to www.absolutelygospel.com .



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About AbsolutelyGospel.com
AbsolutelyGospel.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. It's the place where the Fans Have A Voice.

2014 Absolutely Gospel Music Awards Celebration Rounds Out List of Performers By Featuring Prominent Songwriters

Nashville, TN (March 27, 2014) The administrators and staff of AbsolutelyGospel.com are proud to announce the final performers for the upcoming Absolutely Gospel Music Awards Celebration. In keeping with the tradition of thinking outside of the box, this year’s AGM Awards will play host to performances from celebrated songwriters.

The Awards Celebration will feature reigning Songwriter of the Year (Artist) Jim Brady along with his wife, AGM Award winning songwriter Melissa Brady. Also, 2013’s Songwriter of the Year (Professional) Sue C. Smith, AGM Award winner Kenna West, and multiple nominee Jason Cox will perform their Song of the Year nominated hit “Calvary’s Cry” (originally recorded by Brian Free & Assurance) during the program.

“We are so excited about recognizing some of the best songwriters in the business in this capacity,” mentioned Deon Unthank, President of AbsolutelyGospel.com. “We were the first awards program in all of Gospel music to split up our Songwriter and Producer of the Year categories to make sure that those songwriters and producers who don’t normally promote themselves to the industry get the recognition they deserve. This was just a natural step in the progression of our awards program.”

Chris Unthank, Editor in Chief of AbsolutelyGospel.com stated, “This has been an idea that has been ruminating in my mind for many years, and I’m so excited that we finally get to see it come to pass. We have always championed the behind the scenes people in this industry, and we can’t wait to showcase them to the general Southern Gospel audience in this manner.”

The performances of Jim & Melissa Brady, and Smith, West and Cox join the already impressive list of performers which include The Isaacs, Tribute Quartet, the Bowling Family, Beyond the Ashes, The Freemans, the Gaither Vocal Band’s Adam Crabb, the Sneed Family, Jeff & Sheri Easter, The Browders, Karen Peck & New River and The Nelons.

The hosts for this year’s Awards Celebration are two of the industry’s most respected and beloved women. Hosting the awards together this year are Karen Peck Gooch and Kelly Nelon Clark.

In addition, the program is returning the multi-artist tribute to a legend in the Gospel music community. This year, the AGM Awards will be honoring the Easter Brothers. The tribute will be hosted by Jeff Easter and feature a bevy of special guests including Bluegrass icons Dailey & Vincent, Jeff and Sheri Easter, The Isaacs, Kelly Nelon Clark, and The Freemans.

The Absolutely Gospel Music Awards will be held at River of Life Church in Smyrna, Tennessee on Tuesday evening, April 15, 2014. The event is free to the public, however the only way to guarantee seating is to reserve seats by making a $10 donation to AbsolutelyGospel.com. For more information on that, visit http://absolutelygospel.com/index.php/content/articles/2014-absolutely-gospel-music-awards-information

The Awards Celebration will stream live again this year. More information will be forthcoming.

For more information, visit www.absolutelygospel.com or email seats@absolutelygospel.com.

Jericho Junction Featured on SGN Scoops Radio This Week

On this week’s edition of the SGN Scoops Radio program we have great gospel music from Freedom, Donna and Zane King and The Cathedral Family, as well as classic music from Southern Heritage, The Diplomats and Gold City. Jean Grady of Gospel Music Today has a CD review of Joyce Johnson and we have a special interview with Mike Lefevre of The Lefevre Quartet. We introduce you to a new group from Tennessee, ‘Jericho Junction’ and play a prerelease sample of their upcoming CD. So make sure to join us for two hours of great fun on SGN Scoops Radio.

SGN Scoops Radio can be heard on the following stations:
WVSG Radio: wvsgradio.com, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 4:00pm EST.
Radiocia: www.radiocia.us on Tuesday at 10:00 am and 9:00 pm CST and Saturdays at 8:00 pm CST.
Gospel Hour Radio: www.gospelhourradio.com on Saturdays at 3:00 pm CST and re-airs on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3:00 pm CST.
WTGF 90.5 FM, in Pace, Florida, on Saturdays and Sundays at 9:00pm EST.
WPIL 91.7 FM in Heflin, Alabama every Friday from 10:00am -12:00pm CST.
Contact Jonathan to bring SGN Scoops Radio to your station: jonathan@sgnscoops.com.
About Jonathan Edwards: Jonathan Edwards began his radio career on KWFC 89.1 FM in Springfield, Mo. At KWFC he worked in news, sales and was an on air personality, creating the very popular Ozark Gospel Showcase. He has been nominated for 2 Singing News Fan Awards and garnered the coveted Paul Heil Award from the 2012 Diamond Awards. He travels full time with Faith’s Journey and currently hosts the syndicated radio show SGN Scoops Radio.
For more information and free music, click on to http://www.sgnscoops.net/