Mickey Bell Returns To Radio

Bellingham, WA – Rob Patz of Coastal Media Group and SGNScoops Magazine, is happy to announce the return of Mickey Bell to the airwaves. SGN Scoops Presents This Week in Gospel Music with Mickey Bell will bring Gospel and Christian Country music across the nation with the unique, charismatic flavor that Mickey Bell is known for.

“I can’t wait for you to hear the new show. I have a different take on the industry that makes for great radio and will brighten up your day. I promise you will laugh while listening to this show and enjoying the greatest music on this side of heaven (and helll!),” says Mickey. “I am so excited to be back on Southern Gospel radio and to be a part of the exciting things happening with SGN Scoops. Before leaving the airwaves due to a tornado hitting our city, I had established some great friendships with radio all across the U.S and Canada.”

Rob Patz echoes Bell’s statement.”It’s great to be working with Mickey. He’s a pastor, Radio personality and a good friend. I’m looking forward to our professional partnership and continuing to expand the reach of Coastal Media and Southern Gospel.”

Fans are urged to listen for SGN Scoops Presents Mickey Bell on a radio or online station near you. Any stations interested in carrying SGNScoops Presents This Week In Gospel Music With Mickey Bell please contact Mickey at office@thisweekingospelmusic.com.

Find This Week In Gospel Music On Facebook Here

Christian Country Expo coming to Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, TN (April 24, 2015) - Christian Country fans from across the nation will be converging on Pigeon Forge for a brand new summer event in 2015. From August 24 through the 27th, the Smoky Mountain Convention Center will host Christian Country artists, including Marty Raybon, T. Graham Brown, Jan Harbuck, Ava Kasich, Tina Wakefield, Jerry Branscom, and many more.
"Smoky Mountain Resorts is thrilled to host the Christian Country Expo this year," says Pete Smith". Rob and Vonda and the folks at Coastal Media have put together such a great group of talent that all of our employees are volunteering to work the event. The celebrity concerts, the artists' interaction with the fans, the Dixie Stampede and the Great Smoky Mountains are going to make this a special week. I can’t wait to see it!"

"I am very excited to be working with Christian Country Expo," says Vonda Easley. "This is my first Christian Country event to be involved in, and I am so excited to meet and hear all the new artists and also get to hear Marty Raybon and T Graham Brown!"

This event is the first in a planned series called Christian Country Expo. With daily showcases at 10am and evening concerts at 6pm, music fans are sure to enjoy their fill of Gospel music, Country style.
Ava Kasich says, "It is such an honor to be asked to be involved with Christian Country Expo this year! I am humbled to be associated with such inspiring artists! Thank you Rob Patz for including me. Looking forward to what God has in store for everyone involved!"
For more information on lodging or artists who wish to be a part of the Christian Country Expo, please email Rob Patz at rob@sgnscoops.com or call 360 933 0741.

Freemans Take New Direction In Booking

Nashville, Tenn (February 3, 2015)The Freemans now welcome April Potter Holleman, a 19 year veteran in the world of artist booking. She is being brought on board to handle the Freemans performance scheduling, marketing, and branding. Holleman has worked in mainstream Christian and Country Music (Creative Vision), spending eight years with the Harper Agency.

Along with the success of the popular show Nashville Country Revival hosted by Darrell Freeman, the group is starting the year with renewed energy and direction.

Darrell Freeman said, "2015 is shaping up to be a year of revision and firsts in our group's tenure of over 30 years in Gospel music. Along with finishing up Chris's solo record, and starting one of my own, The Freemans are working on expanding into new domains."

To learn more about the Freemans go to http://www.the-freemans.com or https://www.facebook.com/thefreemans . You can catch them on Twitter at https://twitter.com/thefreemansfans

To Book The Freemans contact April Holleman at 615-479-0954 or email msbookingagent@aol.com.


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About The Freemans

History, experience and spiritual wisdom are three attributes that can be used to describe the foundation of the Freeman ministry. Deeply rooted with family, the Freemans experience spans 30+ years. From Darrell’s entrance at age 16 with his family’s group, the Pathways, to Chris’s award-winning teenage years with the Hinsons, the Freemans know the ins and outs of Southern Gospel music.

No doubt, Chris’s unique sound is the reason she was the youngest female artist ever to receive the coveted "Queen of Gospel Music” award two years in a row (’76, ’77) as voted by the readers of Singing News Magazine. In 1980, the lives of Darrel and Chris Freeman became one when they married on August 2nd. After singing with the Pathways for three years Darrell and Chris headed for Nashville and began the Freemans. Joe Freeman, Darrell’s cousin, soon joined them as the third part harmony, as well as their keyboard player. With this sound they have garnered tremendous growth and success.

In 1997, Darrell and Chris’s daughter, Misty, began playing acoustic guitar with the group on stage. Then in 1998, she began singing with them when they recorded Standing Out. Also on stage is Caylon Freeman, Darrell and Chris’s youngest child. He decided to join his family on the road full-time in 2002. He is now playing the drums and singing some with the group.

Now in their 20th year, the Freemans, still do approximately 250 dates a year, and continue to experience tremendous success.

Bev McCann Wins Coveted USAGEM Crown Jewel Award

Nashville, TN (December 1, 2014) Among the many talents of Christian Country singer, Bev McCann, is the ability to pour her heart into a song and capture the attention of the audience. This ability took Bev a long way in claiming the USAGEM's Crown Jewel Award for Christian Country.

Bev McCann stated, "I'm so excited to win this prestigious award. Since it is given by my peers it is extra special to me. I just want to do my best to ministering for the Lord.”

Bev also owns Bev McCann and Friends, a multidimensional service company leading artists to another level of their ministry. She is not only a singer herself, but she works tirelessly helping her clients with booking, recording, and promotions.

The Crown Jewel Award is given to an individual or group excels in their ministry. Bev McCann not only excels in church ministry, but also in reaching out to women who have special issues.

USAGEM was formed in the Summer of 2003 as a ministry-oriented cooperative association of Gospel/Christian artists. The organization has about 300 members from throughout the United States and Canada. Its mission is to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ through music and entertainment and to perform and encourage acts of charity for those who are in need.

To learn more about Bev McCann you can go to http://bevmccannandfriends.com or https://www.facebook.com/BevMcCannMinistries .

To book Bev McCann contact bev.a.mccann@gmail.com .

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About Bev McCann and Friends
Bev McCann loves to sing and travel sharing God's Love with everyone she comes in contact with. She is a Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Artist and Songwriter and Minister. She has been singing and traveling for several years now and loving every minute of it. She works with Godsey and Associates as the Director of Artist Relations. Bev's Friends include the likes of Jim Sheldon, Campbell and Crowley along with Rachel Taylor. All are artists that she manages, books and assists them in many areas of their Ministry.

CLASSIC ARTISTS RECORDS, LLC RELEASES NEW CHARLIE GRIFFIN CD PROJECT NEW RADIO SING IS HAPPY TRACKS!

Classic Artists Records, LLC of Charlotte, NC is starting 2014 with some great music by Charlie Griffin. The new release is PROMISES, featuring a mix of new and favorite songs that are on the 20 song CD.

The first radio single is LEAVE A LOT OF HAPPY TRACKS! Happy Tracks is 50 years old and was a cross over song for Country Artists Kenny Price, The Browns, The Wilburn Brothers and others. In Southern gospel The LeFevres and Florida Boys are noted for their renditions.

Charlie shares, “ I remember this song being sung in revivals and Camp meetings as a child. Winston Miller was the first I heard sing it live. Don Warren was on the Hammond B-3. Then I heard it on the gospel tv show, JUBILEE. “

Project producer Chris Sutton says, “We took what Charlie heard and made it have that Cajun feel. Art Bain on the piano, Jeff Perdue on accordion and David Johnson really made HAPPY TRACKS rock. It definitely makes you move and is a feel good song.”

When asked about this project, Griffin said, “ Each CD project I record has a theme. This project is PROMISES! As I studied my theology course, I began to see so many promises written in the Bible. Many of those promises are explicit while others are implied. As I thought on this, I began to see how many of those promises I missed or that were compromised for me, for everyone. I worked to find songs that were about the promises given to us. The mix of songs is positive and makes for a great listening experience.”

PROMISES! features songs from the pens of Charlie Griffin, Dianne Wilkinson with Chris Binion, Linda Allred, John Stallings, Mike Payne, Glen Campbell, David Ingles and a host of other accomplished lyricists.

Charlie states, “Each promise is a gift. Yes, how sweet are the promises found in God’s word! We are to believe in the promises and take them one by one. Standing on the promises, we can Celebrate Jesus Name. He is my everything; how about you?

“First John 4:4 (NIV)- You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.
Romans 8;20 (NIV)- We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose.”

As I read these promises and countless other promises, I find determination to stand and fight the good fight. I find encouragement to live in the now. I find the strength in the “PROMISES” to “Take Back What The Devil Stole From Me!”

The radio single and complete cd is available now. For more information on the Charlie Griffin’s music or motivational seminars access www.CharlieGriffin.Net, email Charlie@CharlieGriffin.Net or call 704-374-5910. For easy DJ radio or internet access downloads, http://musictoradio.com/Charlie_Griffin/audio.php.

SUNDAY DRIVE RECEIVES ICM VOCAL GROUP OF THE YEAR AWARD IN NASHVILLE

Thursday evening (Oct. 24), the 19th Annual ICM Faith, Family & Country Awards took place at The Fellowship at Two Rivers, honoring artists, songwriters, radio personalities and others associated with the Christian and inspirational country music scene.

Sunday Drive, a multi-award winning family group from Knoxville, TN, received the 2013 ICM Vocal Group of the Year Award.

The award was presented by Stella Parton, long time friend of the group. Sunday Drive performed on the show along with other entertainers and presenters including Guy Penrod, Canton Junction, Jim Ed Brown, Doyle Lawson and Melinda Dolittle from American Idol.

Rascal Flatts, Martina McBride and Scotty McCreery were winners in the mainstream categories.


For more information on Sunday Drive, visit www.sundaydriveband.com or call 615-598-7098.

HEARTLAND’S OWN HEART TO HEART SWEEPS 2013 COUNTRY GOSPEL MUSIC INDUSTRY AWARDS

Heart To Heart is the dynamic duo, based in Branson with deep roots in the Heartland, that is taking the Gospel Music Industry by storm. Sharon and Jerry Mays who make up Heart To Heart have been voted Seven Times National and International Duo of the Year by fans, industry professionals and radio. In 2013 alone, they were honored to receive AGAPE Duo of the Year, International Country Gospel Music Duo of the Year, Country Gospel Music Fanfest Duo of the Year and are current reigning International Country Gospel Choice Awards Duo of the Year. Yes, the industry is definitely taking notice of this duo born and raised in the Bootheel of Missouri.

What is it about Heart To Heart that makes folks pack their concerts, request songs on the radio and buy their CD’s? Well, their performance is powerful and energetic, their harmonies are like a single heartbeat, and people say they literally light up the stage when they sing, whether it be their all-Gospel ministry or their “Heart & Soul of Branson Variety Show” which features gospel, country, oldies Top 40, doo-wop, comedy and their very own, “nearly famous” Elvis Messley himself!

Sharon and Jerry Mays love what they do and it shows! Their concerts are always crowd-pleasers. When not performing on several stages in Branson, MO to include the Doug Gabriel Theater, Treasure Lake Resort and Branson Radio Live, they serve churches and communities nationwide, are Winter Texan Artists throughout the Rio Grande Valley, TX in January, February and March – and still find time to take their Christmas Celebration Tour on the road between Thanksgiving and Christmas each year with their good friend and fellow artist, Doug Thornton. Jerry says “There’s not much time to play but we love what we do. We were born and raised in Malden and Parma, MO with church, family and hard work being part of our upbringing. We are thankful for every opportunity to sing and serve.”

Sharon grew up in a musical family. Her dad, Leon Barnett, was the lead guitar player and singer with the edgy 50’s and 60’s group, Narvel Felts & the Rockets. Young guys who ran through her house when she was about 4 or 5 to practice for gigs, turned out to be the likes of Carl Perkins, Chet Atkins, Harold Jenkins (before he was Conway Twitty), Roy Orbison, Johnny Cash and Elvis was never far away. Jerry grew up on a farm and only learned he could sing when he met Sharon. They appreciate Sharon’s heritage in music that has helped bring them where they are today, as a full-time nationally touring duo that has had four No. 1 songs on the charts: Pieces To Peace, I Will Stand By You, Brand New Man and You Are My Rock. They are working hard in Country Gospel Music to make their homeland, The Heartland, proud. Catch a Heart To Heart concert in your area!

For more information about Heart To Heart, call 417-576-5188 or go to www.hearttoheartmusicgroup.com. Email hearttoheartmusicgroup@gmail.com.

Bev McCann And Friends Appearing At Mufreesboro TN July 21st

Don't miss Bev McCann And Friends in concert on July 21, 2013 at the Family Worship Center in Mufreesboro, TN. Appearing with Bev McCann will be Jim Sheldon, The Golden State Quartet, Wesley Gray, LJT, New Covenant, Rachel Taylor and The Band.

Call Bev McCann for more information at 615-229-5569.

An offering will be taken to defray expenses.

Tune-in Alert May 12th 7:30am, Busy Weekend For Back Home

South Pittsburg, TN (May 8, 2013) It's going to be a busy weekend for Back Home fans.
“Whiskey Stained Glass" the heart-wrenching video performed by outstanding vocal duo, Back Home, will be aired Sunday, May 12th at 7:30AM CST on TNN which broadcasts The NASHVILLE COUNTRY REVIVAL program hosted by Bill Traylor of Mansion Entertainment.
Diana Thomas of Fresh Well Media stated “This is the most emotional and transparent concept video Fresh Well Media has done to date. This video will change your life”.
The video is from the song “Whiskey Stained Glass” on the 'God Doesn't Listen To The Odds' album, which also features the chart busting song "Tell The Mountain (About Your God)”.
In addition to the video broadcast, starting the day before on Saturday May 11th Back Home will be performing at Jeff and Sheri Easter's Homecoming in the Lewis Family Homeplace, Lincolnton, GA.
Jimmy Layne said smiling “Jeff told us he really loved the song, 'Tell The Mountain (About Your God)' and that was going to be one of his request for us to sing Saturday. I think that song , which happens to be doing very well on the charts, is the reason Jeff and Sheri invited us to sing at their Homecoming”.
Information about Jeff and Sheri's Homecoming can be found at http://www.jeffandsherieaster.com .
Also performing will be Jason Crabb and Jeff & Sheri Easter. An offering will be taken for The Home Place, a non-profit organization supported by Jeff and Sheri.

You can reach Back Home at http://www.backhomesings.com, www.facebook.com/back.home, or
E-mail them at backhome@backhomesings.com .

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About Back Home
Back Home is a husband and wife team who not only are great singers, but also inspiring songwriters. Jimmy and Jennifer are no strangers to the music industry. Twenty-six year veterans of vocal session work, they are two of the most sought after background singers in the country and gospel music industries. On any given night you can find Back Home sharing their love for good music, the gospel and their love for the One who has allowed them to live their dreams and sing for Him with audiences and churches all across America.

Jim Sheldon Reaches Top Ten In Country Gospel Chart

Danville, KY (April 19, 2013) Award nominated Jim Sheldon was excited when he got the news of his new song doing well on radio. Jim was elated as he said “I just got word from Christian Voice Magazine with news that I have my first Top Ten Charting song on their charts.”
Sheldon's song “I Would Crawl All The Way” went to number 9 on the Christian Voice Christian Country Chart and went to number 43 on the CVM Southern Gospel Chart. Both charts are for the month of June.
“I Would Crawl All The Way” can be heard on ReverbNation, and it can be seen at www.youtube.com/watch?v=4NdS-xuZ2l8 .
You can reach Jim Sheldon at http://jimsheldonmusic.com, https://www.facebook.com/jim.sheldon, or E-mail him at Contact@JimSheldon.com .

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About Jim Sheldon
After serving many years as music minster, there was a void yet filled. In 1994, joined my first gospel quartet. Immediately, I knew singing gospel music was God's true calling for my life. He confirmed this with a paraphrase of Proverbs 3:6 - "In everything you do put God first, He will direct and crown your efforts with success."

My greatest inspiration came from Glenn Payne. The Cathedrals sang at my church in Virginia. He told me:"Vocalize daily and never sing out of your range. Remember, God gave you the ability and desire. Honor Him with a servant's heart."
Now God says it's time to tell my story of how God has brought me out from a long 'wilderness time' of sin, shame and disgrace to where I am today.

Bluegrass, Bows & Bold Guitars - The Roys + Andy Ross Giveaway Krossroad Guitar on Facebook

Award-Winning Bluegrass Duo THE ROYS Join Andy Ross of Krossroad Guitars For A Special Facebook Giveaway

Nashville, TN (March11, 2013) -- Award-winning Bluegrass duo THE ROYS join Krossroad Guitars in offering fans a chance to win an autographed camouflaged guitar via a special Facebook contest sponsored by Andy Ross. The guitar's designer, fellow musician, famed hunter, hunting bow designer and star of the Sportsman Channel's TV show Maximum Archery, Ross is thrilled to offer the custom Krossroad guitar emblazoned with the ever-popular Realtree™ camouflage and signed by Lee and Elaine. "It's always exciting to work with super-talented people like THE ROYS," notes Ross. "Best of luck to all who enter the giveaway!"

In honor of St. Patrick's Day, all "lucky leprechauns" can enter for a chance to win from now until April 17. To enter the contest, Bluegrass and hunting fans simply LIKE the following three Facebook pages and SHARE THE PIC using the hyperlinks provided below:
Andy Ross Official
Krossroad Guitars
The Roys
SHARE THE PIC

The winner will be selected at random and notified by a Facebook message at the close of the contest.

THE ROYS aligned with Team RealTree™ Outdoor Energy last year for a strategic partnership that included tour sponsorship. Lee and Elaine travel to their shows in a strikingly-wrapped Team RealTree™ Outdoor Energy camouflage bus.

Known for their outstanding vocals, memorable songs and top-notch musicianship, THE ROYS are regarded as one of the fastest-rising successes in the music industry today. They have blazed a trail across the country spreading their distinctive brand of Bluegrass to longtime fans of the genre and "newbies" alike. Their sophomore disc for Rural Rhythm Records, NEW DAY DAWNING (2012), debuted at Number 2 on the BILLBOARD Bluegrass Albums Chart in early September and two weeks later climbed to Number 1 on Amazon's Bluegrass Best Sellers list.

The EP is currently on the BLUEGRASS UNLIMITED MAGAZINE Top 15 Chart and is one of SiriusXM BLUEGRASS JUNCTION's most played albums. Last October, Lee and Elaine were named Inspirational Country Music's Bluegrass Artist of the Year (2012). They were previously honored with that award in 2011 and dubbed the organization's Duo of the Year in 2010 and 2009.

Fans can keep up with the red-hot duo online at THE ROYS and can look for Lee and Elaine's next CD this summer.

Ross, famous for producing some of the world's best hunting bows and for his television show, is also a skilled pro in the creation of quality musical equipment. In the 1960s, his father Bud Ross founded Kustom Electronics, at one time the world's largest music equipment manufacturer. Kustom Amplifiers, easily identified by their tuck-and-roll cabinet, made the company famous. Because of his father's success, Andy grew up surrounded not only by the manufacturing process but also by legendary artists of the day. He developed a personal love for music that is matched only by his passion for hunting.

About Krossroad Guitars™
A Krossroad guitar is a quality "full-size" guitar that performs perfectly with a solo acoustic artist in a small town band or on the big stage. Made of only the finest materials including a solid spruce top, rosewood fretboard, mahogany sides and back and Fishman ® Electronics pickup, Krossroad delivers quality, sound and performance with an outdoor edge. Krossroad Guitars™ are only available factory direct from Krossroad and offer a 30-day, money-back guarantee. For more information on Krossroad Guitars™, please visit Krossroad Guitars.

Rene' Jones Performs At MCCF Benefit Concert

Nashville, TN (February 26, 2013) Rene' Jones was among the Featured Performers at a fundraiser for the Music City Christian Fellowship. For the past 33 years, MCCF has sponsored a gospel program called Sunday Mornin’ Country which is held on the last day of the CMA Music Festival (formerly known as Fan Fair). It is the longest running named Gospel event connected with the CMA Music Festival. This year will be the 34th Anniversary of Sunday Mornin’ Country. It is going to be held on Sunday, June 12 at 2:30 p.m. at the newly renovated Grand Ole Opry House and will be hosted by Linda Davis and George Hamilton IV.

In June 1980, a group of Country Music artists and musicians wanted to honor God with the talents He had given them by sharing their songs and personal stories of faith. They came together in prayer and fellowship. They decided to have "A singin', prayin' get-together" for the Country Music fans during the annual Country Music Fan Fair celebration (currently known as CMA Music Festival). Some 40-50 singers, musicians, writers, producers, promoters, etc. were involved in the first "Sunday Mornin' Country.”® The event was so well received that the group organized to do similar ministries all year long.

Rene' stated “It is such a privilege to be associated with such a prestigious group of Country singers who are Christian. It is important to let our light shine no matter where we are singing. The Country Music fans love Christian Music and love to hear their favorite Country singers singing songs with a Christian message.”

Performing along with Rene' were Grand Ole Opry star Linda Davis, The Babcocks, Mark Thomas, and Judy Gilbert.


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About Rene Jones
"The Christian Cowboy"
Born in "L.A." (in this case, "Lower Ashton"), a small community on the outskirts of Walterboro, South Carolina, Rene' was raised singing in the church. His family was involved in farming, and he spent many hours singing while riding the tractors and working the land. In his teens, Rene' joined the gospel group The Beacons, and it was this background that gave Rene' his vibrant and smooth voice of today. He sings with passion, putting his heart, body and soul into his music.


After The Beacons, Rene' decided to try his hand at country music. He performed in country clubs, variety shows, festivals, parades, and was a featured entertainer at the 1987 March of Dimes Telerama broadcast from Charleston, South Carolina. In 1992, after having the pleasure of performing in sold-out concerts with Linda Davis and Lang Scott, Rene'and his wife moved to Nashville and embarked on a series of tours across Eastern United States. Rene's third album brought him within inches of a record deal. However, at the last minute, the record executives decided Rene' was too country and signed their second choice artist for the deal. Imagine being too country for country music.

In 2003, Rene' felt the Lord calling him back to his roots of gospel music. Rene's first Christian Country single was released to radio in March, 2005 by GodsChild Records. Since then, Rene' has had several songs to chart in the Top 10 of the Christian Country and Country Gospel charts. His single Rockin' On The Front Porch went to #1 in January, 2009. He has appeared in Music City News, Power Source and Christian Voice magazines. He and his wife have made several television appearances including TCT Network and Touching the World Ministries.

Rene' was bestowed the honor of receiving the 2007, 2009, & 2011 Male Vocalist of the Year Awards, the 2008 Soloist of the Year Award, and the prestigious 2009 & 2010 Christian Country Crown Jewel Awards from the United States Association of Gospel Entertainers and Musicians. He won the 2012 Video of the Year Award from the International Country Gospel Music Association for the song Bible By Her Bed.

Rene' has been called by God to share the gospel through music. His mission is to be a disciple, go wherever God opens the doors, and share Christ's message of love and redemption.

Red Roots To Appear On The American Bible Challenge On GSN

Hendersonville, TN (February 25, 2013) – Red Hen recording artist, RED ROOTS will appear on Season 2 of the hugely successful GSN television series THE AMERICAN BIBLE CHALLENGE. Jeff Foxworthy hosts this one-hour game show in which contestants compete based on their knowledge of the Bible. THE AMERICAN BIBLE CHALLENGE, will premiere Thursday, March 21 at 9 pm ET/PT on GSN, and the Red Roots will appear in one of the first six episodes.TEAM RED ROOTS will be competing for Home of Grace, an addiction recovery program founded by their pastor—and the first place the Red Roots performed.

These 21-year-old triplets formed the Christian-pop-country band “Red Roots,” named in honor of their red hair and their renewal in the blood of Christ. These sweet Southern girls are also passionate, tough competitors!

Along with showcasing their knowledge of the Bible, this season’s new crop of 18 teams of contenders will vie for the title of THE AMERICAN BIBLE CHALLENGE champions by competing in brand new games that put their spiritual AND physical talents to the test. Each team will be competing for their favorite charity. The second season of THE AMERICAN BIBLE CHALLENGE will feature GRAMMY® winner and multi-platinum-selling musician and producer Kirk Franklin joining as musical co-host.

Red Hen just released the second single from the group’s Middle of Nowhere CD called “Christian Country Girl.” The video from the single can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mToUDBEsYs. For more information on Red Roots, please visit theredroots.com.

Red Hen Records is a division of Daywind Records. Based in Hendersonville, TN, the label is also home to Christian artists Zach and Rodney and Michael Lee. Red Hen is exclusively distributed by New Day Christian Distributors (www.newdaychristian.com).

For more information regarding this press release, please contact:
publicity@daywind.com.

SGNScoops February Issues Hosts The Nelons On Cover

We are excited to present February’s edition of SGNScoops Magazine.

On the cover this month is a name we’ve all grown to love over the years, “The Nelons!” We’re sure you’ll be blessed as the Nelons share about their legacy, family and ministry.

Also this month, we’re highlighting the ministries of The Browders, Midnight Cry and Lindsay Huggins as well as Tommy Brandt, Jimmy Davis and Gerald Crabb. Enjoy concert stories on Palmetto State Quartet and a get replay of recent concert with Wes Hampton and Marshall Hall. S

andi Duncan Clark reviews February’s music, John Mathis has a spiritual challenge and Lou Hildreth shares more great memories.

We are officially announcing the opening date for round one nominations for Diamond Awards is February 18th! The Diamond Awards will be held at the Creekside Gospel Music Convention in Pigeon Forge, TN.

Get the latest news on Creekside in this issue as well.

We are welcoming a few new writers this month! Make sure you let Dixie Phillips, Eva Wilson and Susan Werchonowicz know you appreciate them as well as the rest of our dedicated and talented staff.

Special thanks to Sherri Whitt for sharing a concert experience.

Remember, SGNScoops All Digital Magazine is free! Please share with your friends, family and fans!
Download SGNScoops Magazine Here

ANNIE MOSES BAND RECEIVES STANDING OVATION AT GRAND OLE OPRY DEBUT

Los Angeles, Calif. (November 28, 2012)- The critically acclaimed Annie Moses Band made its Grand Ole Opry debut this past Fri., Nov. 23 at the historic Ryman Auditorium in downtown Nashville. The performance was in support of its latest fall release, Pilgrims & Prodigals, and the compilation project, Annie Moses Band Ultimate Christmas Collection, which is currently available in stores.

Friday’s performance aired on 650 AM WSM Radio and Sirius XM Channel 56. During the show, the band performed its show-stopping rendition of the holiday classic “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” one of the many timeless carols featured on Annie Moses Bands’ Christmas project. The band’s first radio single, “Blush,” was also performed to coincide with Pilgrims & Prodigals, which features an eclectic fusion of music including classical, jazz, folk, and Celtic. After receiving a standing ovation, the group returned to the stage for an encore performance of its high energy version of “Jingle Bells.”

Famous for its holiday renditions, the group’s Ultimate Christmas Collection is a five-disc package comprised of an instrumental project, the band’s chart topping studio album and the record breaking PBS CD/DVD special. The album highlights three classic projects from the Annie Moses band that include Christmas Bright & Beautiful, This Glorious Christmas, and Christmas with the Annie Moses Band live CD/DVD. New to fans is a digital release, Christmas Comes Softly, which features instrumental arrangements of holiday favorites.

To coincide with Ultimate Christmas Collection, the band will embark on a seasonal tour beginning in Bellville, Ill. on November 29. Sponsored by Holt International, the tour will feature 17 performances from the compilation. Holt International is a non-profit organization that supports special needs children in countries overseas who are awaiting adoption.

For more information on Annie Moses Band and the holiday tour, please visit www.anniemosesband.com.

About Annie Moses Band
The Annie Moses Band is made up of six siblings with their parents Bill and Robin spearheading the lyrics and arrangements. As a whole, the family has earned numerous awards and achievements that testify to the depth of each member’s artistic ability, while collectively creating a blend of captivating styles of classical, jazz, folk and even frisson of Celtic. The group consists of highly trained experts with most of them having graduated from the prestigious Juilliard. In addition to its PBS specials and tour dates, the band hosts a Fine Arts Summer Academy, which is an intensive program in the summer for young musical artists that allow them to put their technique to work with on-stage performing experience.

Sharron Kay King In Studio Recording First New Album in Five Years

BYRON, Ga. – (August 10, 2012) – 2012 Absolutely Gospel Music Award nominee Sharron Kay King is in the studio this week recording vocals for her first studio-recording in over five years. The new recording, titled This Story of My Life, is the follow-up to her latest project Don’t Stop Believing.

This Story of My Life is being produced by Mike Pillow (Ricky Atkinson & Compassion, Naomi Sego, Ann Downing) and has a tentative release date of this fall.

“This record has definitely been a labor of love for me,” mentioned Sharron Kay. “God has brought me through so much over the last few years, and this recording is a testimony to the things that He has done in my life. I am so excited for everyone to hear the songs that were birthed from this time of my life.”

Sharron wrote or co-wrote 10 of the 12 tracks including the title cut. Other writers and co-writers included award-winning writers Steve & Annie Chapman, John Robinson, Becky Wright, Chris Binion, and Sharron’s son-in-law Sean Anderson.

“So many of these songs mean so much to me,” replied Sharron. “I got to collaborate on ‘Alabaster Box’ with my daughter Liz who used to travel and sing with me many years ago. Also, ‘She’d Rather Be Here With Me’ was given to me by Steve & Annie Chapman and reflects the story of my mother and her recent passing.”

More information on the new recording including a definitive release date, the first single, and some other surprise appearances will be announced at a later date.

Sharron has been singing and speaking at ladies retreats and recovery groups more frequently this year due to her amazing testimony of God’s redeeming power and grace. For information on how you can book Sharron at your church or event, visit http://www.sharronkayking.com.

Sharron recently released her latest single to radio. The new song, titled “Look Up,” is the fifth single released from King’s Don’t Stop Believing. “Look Up” was written by Eric Horner and was just released to Southern Gospel radio through Eddie King & Crown Communications.

All four of Sharron’s previous singles from Don’t Stop Believing landed in the Top 20 on the AbsolutelyGospel.com Top 40 Weeky Chart – the industry’s most watched weekly radio report in Southern Gospel music.

Sharron was honored earlier this year to see their name among the 10 nominees for Fan Favorite Artist of the Year in the highly-respected Absolutely Gospel (SGN) Music Awards. This is the second time in her career that Sharron has been nominated for an Absolutely Gospel Music Award. She was previously nominated in 2007 in the Country Album of the Year category for her The Road I Know project.

More information as well as booking information on Sharron Kay King can be found at http://sharronkayking.com. Fans can visit Sharron on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sharron-Kay-King-Official-Fan-Page/102290253148210 .

About Sharron Kay King
Sharron Kay King is a talented singer/songwriter based out of Byron, Georgia. Sharron’s last release, Don’t Stop Believing, spawned off the #1 fan favorite “God’s Been Good.” King was a 2008 Top 5 finalist in the Singing News Fan Awards for Favorite Horizon Individual and a 2009 Top 10 finalist for Favorite Soloist.

New Music From Mark Bishop August 21

For the past decade, Mark Bishop has traveled as a soloist and we’ve benefited from the time he’s spent getting to his engagements. If you were to ask Mark where he does a lot of his songwriting, the answer might come back “Interstate 40” or some other highway or backroad.

Matter-of-fact, we did ask Mark about it. He said, “Yes, I have two writing places. Foremost, eighty percent of my songs come to me while driving, since I do so much of it. The other twenty percent is on my front porch swing here at home. I’m not much for writing in a cubicle or an office!”

As an artist, Mark is a unique Gospel music treasure, but even more so because of the many wonderful songs he’s written. We’re all beneficiaries of the blessings they bring.

A Mark Bishop song will always include spiritual depth and biblical accuracy, but occasionally he alludes to the yet-to-be-revealed joys of the sweet by and by, like he does on this album with “An Old Stone The Lord Rolled Away” and “They Can’t Receive Their Reward.” Mark also tackled the topic in previous outings in the songs “I Got Here As Fast As I Could” and “Blue Skies.”

It’s very likely Mark Bishop pulled over to write many of these outstanding new songs, and we believe you’ll be compelled to “pull over” and listen. Mark Bishop writes songs filled with heart. God’s heart.

I Can Rejoice will be available at Crossroads, iTunes, Amazon and in stores everywhere August 14, 2012.

Patterson Promotions Makes Top 5 in “Promoter of Year” CGM Fan Awards

EHA-Nashville, TN} National radio promoter, Pauline Patterson, founder of Patterson Promotions, was recently placed in the Top 5 finalists list for “Promoter of the Year” in the 2012 Country Gospel Music Fan Awards.

The CGM, presented by Christian Voice Magazine, announced the top nominees this week in 22 categories. Pauline notes, “I am humbled and honored to have this kind of support. Country Gospel Music reaches so many hearts, and I’m so glad to be a part of promoting the music ministries of so many wonderful artists. It’s a blessing to be involved, and a huge blessing to be nominated!”
Voting is currently underway to determine final winners, who will be announced at the 2012 CGM Fan Awards program, April 28, 2012, during the 3rd annual CGM FanFest, in Pigeon Forge, TN. A
ll ballots must be submitted by March 31, 2012.
For a full list of awards criteria, other categories, and to vote, visit the website: http://www.christianvoicemagazine.com/cgmvote.html

Allen Smith: The Man Behind the Diamond Awards - Retro SGM Radio 2007

(Editor's note: The following feature was first published in March 2007 on http://www.sgmradio.com/)

Every year during the National Quartet Convention in Louisville, Kentucky, a special event occurs. In the midst of showcases, media interviews and listening parties, attendees and fans alike pause for a moment to give honour to the main influence behind Southern Gospel Music. At the Diamond Award ceremonies the Lord is honoured first, and in the middle of this afternoon of praise, those who are involved in His music are thanked for their dedication to His purpose. For the last few years, the man behind these awards has been Allen Smith.

A Pastor with over 40 years in the ministry, Rev. Allen Smith became involved in Southern Gospel music through concert promotion in the churches where he was ministering. In the mid-90’s he began to DJ in a radio station in DeSoto, Missouri. He and his church started a southern gospel magazine, which grew quickly and became the Southern Gospel News Magazine. A weekly email newsletter followed, SGN Scoops Ezine. Today the publication is known as SGN Scoops Magazine, and the daily email newsletter is SGN Scoops Today. Allen is seen as an industry innovator, a man who is finding ways to continuously promote Southern Gospel music.

Allen Smith recently talked with SGM Radio about his involvement with the prestigious Diamond Awards. “They were started about 16 years ago by the Gospel Voice Magazine”, Allen explains. “As you know, they went out of business a few years ago, and the Diamond Awards lay dormant for about two years. One day about four years ago I realized that I knew the owners of the Gospel Voice… I had been praying for some time about the possibility of our magazine having an awards program. But, I did not want to just start a new awards show that very few people knew about, and that no one would attend. Feeling the direction of the Lord in the matter, I spoke with the owner of Voice Magazine that I knew, and asked if it would be possible for us to take over the Diamond Awards. He told me he would have to talk it over with his partner, and get back to me the next month. He did get back to me, and the rest is history. They just handed the Diamond Awards over to us.”

In an industry that currently has many award ceremonies occurring throughout the year, Allen explains why the Diamonds are special. “The Diamond Awards are unique in many ways. First of all, they were resurrected from the grave, so to speak. Secondly, they are truly fan-based. The fans even select the nominees. Third, we knew that once again that we would be innovative when it came to balloting. You see we do not have a really large subscription base. So, in order to make the balloting realistic and legitimate, we made the decision to let every Southern Gospel fan vote if they wanted to. So, in addition to a printed ballot, we also made an electronic ballot available on the internet. We were the first to do this, and it has worked quite well for us.”

Allen explains that safeguards are put in place to prevent people from voting more than once, to retain the integrity of the awards. The Diamond Award ballots can be accessed online and submitted in two different ways. Artists can print off the hardcopy ballots found at www.sgnscoops.com and have them available for fans at their product tables. Fans can also vote online at www.diamondawardsonline.com.

Electronic access to voting is not the latest innovation to the Diamond Awards. Allen explains, “We introduced a category a few years ago called the Favorite Artist/Industry Website Award. This past year, we split it into two different awards. We now have the Favorite Artist Website Award and the Favorite Industry Website Award. It is interesting to note that this past year, the Singing News Fan Awards has also introduced a website award. That is not all, for we introduced a duet award four years ago. The 2007 Singing News Fan Awards will has a duet award for the first time in their history.”

There is always a lot of discussion and rumour among fans and artists about alterations in the long-running Singing News Fan Awards. Allen comments, “Many people in the industry are now talking about the changes that are being made in the Singing News Fan Awards this year. It is being said that they are dropping several of their categories. I want to make this clear, that as far as I know, they have not yet officially announced these changes. But if this information is correct, then The SGN SCOOPS DIAMOND AWARDS will still have the categories, and will still be recognizing those artists that the Fan Awards will no longer be recognizing.”

Through their commitment to recognizing the work accomplished by Southern Gospel artists and industry personnel, the Diamond Awards encompass regional groups as well as those that are nationally known. Regional groups do appear on the nominating ballets, and occasionally receive enough votes to win the award.

“We also have regional groups performing during the Diamond Awards”, says Allen. “This gives them a platform to be seen and heard by not only fans, but also top industry personnel. We receive reports from these regional groups that we spotlight each year. Some have had promoters see them who then have provided many new dates for them. Some have been seen by major record companies and received contracts. Some have been nominated for Singing News Fan Awards, and they have told us that it is because of the exposure they received at The Diamond Awards.”

The Diamond Awards are seen as a true reflection of the fan’s favourites in Southern Gospel. Allen commented on the ratio of fan vs. industry respondents. “ It is very hard to determine. Of course, there are many more fans that vote than those in the industry. However, you would probably be surprised by the industry names that appear on our ballot registrations. There are a lot of industry people who do vote. The Diamond Awards have become very prestigious, and almost everyone wants to be involved in some way or another.”

“As far as how this compares with other awards in Southern Gospel, I am not sure”, Allen continues. “What is being said is that The Diamond Awards are at the very least the second largest and second best award program in the industry. I am very humbled by this, and I want to state for the record that I want to make sure that God gets all the glory for this, if it is correct.”

The ultimate mission of the Diamonds is to lift up the Lord, the Source of the Gospel the music promotes. Allen comments, “We never want to have just an awards program. We want God to feel welcome.In other words, in addition to handing out awards, we also have church. This is our mission, to allow the Holy Ghost to change lives during The Diamond Awards.”

“The vision of The Diamond Awards, is to continue to grow”, states Allen. “This year the room we will be in will be twice the size of former years. That is just part of the vision. We desire to continue to recognize people for the work they do. We desire to provide a platform for regional groups. But most of all, we desire to reach hearts with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. That is first and foremost. I am a pastor, and I have a pastor’s heart. We want to do all we can to help the industry, but the greatest way we can help the industry is to allow God to be real in all that we do.”

This Pastor with a heart for the lost recognizes the need reach out to others both in the pew and outside of church. Beginning to preach at age 15, with experience on the mission field and in prisons, he has been pastoring his current church for 25 years. Southern Gospel has always been a major part of his life.

“I can remember the first Southern Gospel group I ever heard. It was a regional group, not a national group. I do not remember the name of the group, but I was blessed by the tenor they had. His name was Junior South. I was probably about 13 or 14 years old”, Allen recalls.

“Down through the years, I have been blessed by many groups. Groups like The McKameys, The Bishops, The Kingsmen, Tony Gore & Majesty, The Perrys, and the list actually goes on and on”, Allen explains. “Just a few years ago, I was especially blessed by a song The McKameys sang. It was written by a friend of mine, Barbara Huffman. Barbara is a writer for the Singing News, as well as a songwriter. At this point in time, I cannot even remember the name of the song, but it really blessed me and I knew I had to learn it.”

Allen continues, “I learned it and sang it at our church about three times. The burden I had for that song then lifted. A few days later, I found out that one of the young ladies in our church was going through something in her life that was really hard. When she heard me sing that song, the Spirit of God lifted her up and set her free from what she was going through. I believe that is what Southern Gospel music is all about.”

“Southern Gospel has changed a lot in the last few years,” says Allen. “I believe it has become more industry, and less ministry. I believe this is very sad. Do not get me wrong; I am not opposed to business. In fact, a ministry that is not run as a business will die. But, on the other hand a ministry whose focus becomes business and not ministry, is dead to begin with.”

Allen believes that the industry does not have to keep going in that direction. “As far as a positive change, I believe we need to get back to the roots of Southern Gospel. What are those roots? True Southern Gospel music and words, and allowing the Spirit of God to have His way in the hearts and lives of everyone, fans and industry personnel.”

This gentleman who loves Southern Gospel music and whose innovative direction has lead the Diamond Awards to their current prestigious status, is still a Pastor whose main goal is to reach the lost. This is emphasized when he shares what the Lord has been speaking to him about lately: “Being all I can be for Him. Doing all I can to reach souls for Him.”

“If you look in Southern Gospel News Magazine on page 4 every month, you will find the Plan of Salvation. We call it The Priceless Corner. If you go to our website (www.sgnscoops.com), you will also find The Priceless Corner.” And that gift of salvation, truly priceless, is worth more than any award.

By Lorraine Walker
First Published March 2007 in http://www.sgmradio.com

The Diamond Awards are now hosted by SGN Scoops. For more information: http://www.sgnscoops.com/2012/02/06/diamond-awards-voting/

For current Christian music/artist features be sure to visit http://www.sgmradio.com/

Diamond Awards 2012 - Vote Today!

News from SGN Scoops:

We’re excited to say we’ve had a great participation with voting during the first round of nominations. The first round of voting started in January and will end on March 28th.

If you have not voted, please do so and encourage your friends, family and fans to do so as well by adding this link to all of your social media outlets.

Remember- The Diamond Awards is FAN based, FAN driven, so speak out- your voice REALLY counts.


VOTE HERE! http://www.sgnscoops.com/2012-diamond-awards
Or VOTE HERE! https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/VRDF68N

OFFICIAL RULES:
One vote per email address. Email address will be required to place a vote.
Printable ballots are available for mail-in votes, but photocopies of completed ballots will not be accepted.
SGN Scoops Digital and Coastal Media Group reserves the right to discard any vote believed tobe fraudulent (ie, using a fake email address for mass voting) and reserves the right to determine eligibility in all categories.
Votes should be based on an artist’s work within the calendar year of 2011.
Ballots must be filled out for at least 18 of the 21 categories to be counted.
All fans are eligible to nominate.
For questions or additional information, email rhonda@sgnscoops.com.