Award-winning Tenor DAVID PHELPS Tops Sales Charts

NASHVILLE, Tenn.–GRAMMY®-nominated, classically trained tenor David Phelps topped the sales charts this week with his all-new recording, Freedom (Gaither Music Group). Produced by Phelps and mentor/friend/gospel music legend Bill Gaither, the new release landed at #1 on the Southern Gospel Albums chart and at #10 on the CCM Albums chart, according to Nielsen SoundScan. In addition, Phelps’ previous release, Classic (Gaither Music Group), hit the #2 spot on the Southern Gospel Albums chart, while the Classic DVD topped the Christian Music Video chart and came in at #3 on the Billboard Top Music Video chart.
Phelps, who wrote or co-wrote nine songs on the new release, describes, “…This is a snapshot of where I am on my journey…it’s real life and faith — not the absence of trouble, just the ability to be led through it by our loving Savior. For me, these songs are like the rings of a tree telling its story: some years were plentiful; some were dry; in the end they speak of life.”
Those songs of life underscore Phelps’ ability to bring music to life and showcase his award-winning, three-octave range. The recording includes gospel standards such as “Ain’t No Grave,” “When the Saints Go Marching In” and a signature recording of “We Shall Behold Him”; yet one of the songs taking audiences by storm is the Phelps-penned “Ghost Town (Freedom).”
“The central theme of Freedom emanates from the title song, ‘Ghost Town (Freedom),’” explains Phelps. “I began writing the era-based lyric in the verses and was amazed how the metaphor of Christ painted itself…it’s about why He did what He did: freedom!’ So much of our spiritual lives (and the songs on this project) are spent searching for or trying to cling to freedom.”
The recording features Phelps’ anticipated powerhouse vocals along with musicianship from a who’s who of Nashville talents including Gordon Mote, Chris Rodriguez, Danny O’Lannerghty, Greg Ritchie, Sam Levine, David Davidson and Jack Jezzro among others. The orchestrations were penned by Phelps, Mote, Steve Mauldin and Kristin Wilkinson. The rest of the Gaither Vocal Band — Bill Gaither, Wes Hampton, Adam Crabb and Todd Suttles – were on hand to perform some of the project’s background vocals.
Freedom is distributed through Capitol Christian Distribution and is available throughout general market stores and the Christian marketplace in addition to online retailers including iTunes, Amazon and www.gaither.com.

Award-winning Tenor DAVID PHELPS Celebrates FREEDOM with All-NEW Recording

Acclaimed Vocalist Brings a “Ghost Town” to Life

Phelps Showcases His Vocal Prowess and Songwriting Talents with New Release

NASHVILLE, Tenn.--February 23rd, 2015--GRAMMY®-nominated, classically trained tenor David Phelps showcases his award-winning voice and three-octave range on his all-new recording, Freedom (Gaither Music Group). Produced by Phelps and mentor/friend/gospel music legend Bill Gaither, the new release, scheduled to hit the streets on April 14th, underscores Phelps’ ability to bring music to life.

“Freedom is a bit of a return home for me,” he describes. “I love that the first song starts with the lyric, ‘I'm back again....’ As the song ‘I'm Coming Home’ unfolded I knew that it had to be the first song on the project. I began my recording career with a project that included songs like ‘End of the Beginning,’ ‘Let the Glory Come Down’ and ‘No More Night’ – a gospel release with an eclectic mix of modern pop and soulful ballads. I will always be an eclectic artist, and…I've been honored to record rock ballads, traditional pop songs, classical arias and gospel standards.”

Fans will enjoy more of those gospel standards on the new recording, which includes Phelps’ haunting rendition of the classic hit “Ain’t No Grave,” an acoustic-driven version of “When the Saints Go Marching In” and a signature recording of “We Shall Behold Him.”

In addition to gospel favorites, Phelps contributed nine new songs that he wrote or co-wrote to the release. He addressed topics such as humility, brokenness, awe, faith, doubt, hope and freedom as featured in the title cut that required some soul-searching.

“The central theme of Freedom emanates from the title song, ‘Ghost Town (Freedom),’” explains Phelps. “I began writing the era-based lyric in the verses and was amazed how the metaphor of Christ painted itself. However, I got to the chorus and was stuck. After playing it for Bill (Gaither), he agreed that it needed something different than what I had. I went back to the drawing board.

“I asked myself, ‘What is all this about? It's not really about a ‘Ghost Town’ or a metaphor or even the specific deeds of Jesus. It's about why He did what He did: freedom!’ So much of our spiritual lives (and the songs on this project) are spent searching for or trying to cling to freedom.”

The recording features Phelps’ anticipated powerhouse vocals along with musicianship from a who’s who of Nashville talents including Gordon Mote, Chris Rodriguez, Danny O’Lannerghty, Greg Ritchie, Sam Levine, David Davidson and Jack Jezzro among others. The orchestrations were penned by Phelps, Mote, Steve Mauldin and Kristin Wilkinson. The rest of the Gaither Vocal Band -- Bill Gaither, Wes Hampton, Adam Crabb and Todd Suttles – were on hand to perform some of the project’s background vocals.

“I truly feel like these songs are a part of me,” Phelps explains. “They are snapshots of where I am on my journey, and my hope is that they are told in a way that others can relate to and be encouraged by. I am far from perfect and depend on grace every moment of every day. I hope that Freedom paints a real portrait of living faith as I learn and grow on my journey.”

Freedom will be distributed through Capitol Christian Distribution and will be available throughout general market stores and the Christian marketplace in addition to online retailers including iTunes, Amazon and www.gaither.com.

The release will be positioned heavily at retail, via catalog placements and through a direct TV campaign, beginning in April, on networks including DISH TV, DIRECTV, AT&T Uverse, PBS, GaitherTV, TBN, FamilyNet, CTN, GMTN, Guardian, Liberty, RFD, TCT and TLN. The campaign will also air in Canada on Vision TV, The Miracle Channel, Grace TV and CTS.
For further information regarding David Phelps, please visit www.davidphelps.com, www.facebook.com/davidphelps or @DPhelpsMusic. To schedule interviews or for media assistance, please contact Celeste Winstead at CWinstead@springhillmusic.com.

###

CD Song List:
I'm Coming Home
Who Do You Say That I Am
Rain
Ghost Town (Freedom)
Little White Church
Ain't No Grave
We Shall Behold Him
What I Need Is You
Holy (Sanctus)
Parable of the River
Your Time Will Come (with the Gaither Vocal Band)
The Lily
Heaven’s Shore
When the Saints Go Marching In

ABOUT DAVID PHELPS
David Phelps is blessed with a vocal instrument unlike any other. The multi-platinum artist first entered the national spotlight when he joined the Gaither Vocal Band and has since performed at Carnegie Hall, the White House and many other halls and churches around the world. Phelps has won two GRAMMY® Awards and four GMA DOVE Awards. His latest work, Freedom, showcases his talents as a singer, songwriter, arranger and producer. Phelps lives outside of Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife, Lori, and their four children: Callie, Maggie Beth, David Grant and Coby.

A New Era Begins For The Gaither Vocal Band

When two Gaither Vocal Band vacancies came open in late 2013, Bill began a meticulous search and considered every possibility. A few weeks ago, Gaither Music announced Adam Crabb as the new lead singer, joining Bill Gaither, David Phelps and Wes Hampton. Now, at last, the search is over for our fifth member and a new era begins in the Gaither Vocal Band’s legacy!
Gaither Music is pleased to welcome our new baritone, Todd Suttles, to the Gaither Vocal Band. Todd’s deep resonant baritone voice is matched only by his wonderful character, quick sense of humor and infectious energy. He comes to us from Vanderbilt University, where he has served for 20 years as a Sports Fitness Director as well as Vanderbilt’s CampVandy Youth Programs Director, where he will continue when he is not traveling with the Gaither Vocal Band. Todd has sung with the Settles Connection and can be heard in the background vocals on numerous recordings with artists whom you know and love. He comes highly recommended by fellow artists, university faculty, and many others who have had the privilege of working with him.
“First of all, I want to thank Mark Lowry and Michael English for giving us some really wonderful years and incredible recordings that will live on in gospel music history,” Bill states. “We knew when they left, we had big shoes to fill and, as I have said before, you never truly replace anyone. You have to create something new and unique. I have been putting voices together for a long, long time and never before have we considered more possibilities or auditioned so many incredible singers than we have during the past few months. This decision came down to finding a vocal range and texture that would offer just the right balance to the current mix of voices in the group. I could not be happier with this decision. Not only do we love the rich tones in Todd’s voice, he also happens to be a wonderful human being to be around. So not only have we gained a talented individual, we have gained a new friend. And very soon, I believe you will agree. Trust me. This is going to be good!”
This energetic new line-up will set sail on the Gaither Homecoming Caribbean Cruise this coming Saturday and will be headed off to a full schedule of concert weekends throughout the spring. And we will soon announce fall tour dates as well! So stay tuned!

SGN Scoops Digital Releases January 2014 Edition with David Phelps on Cover

Happy New Year! We’re kicking off 2014 right with the one and only David Phelps on the cover!

Also in this issue, enjoy articles on Donna King, the Old Paths Quartet, Chris Allman, Page Trio, Carolina Quartet, Suzanne Hise and Mike Manuel.

Don’t miss who topped the SGNScoops radio chart for January and don’t miss the latest update on our Creekside Gospel Music Convention.

We are thrilled to welcome David Staton to our writing staff! David unveils his new column, “Can You Handle The Truth?”

Catch the latest devotions from Sherry Anne and Jeff Steele as well as tips from Laurette Willis on Christian Fitness.

Legendary Lou Wills Hildreth’s articles are always great. You don’t want to miss “Life, Love and Legends.”

It’s a special treat to share an article on Edna Wright, the newly elected Southern Gospel Music Promoters President!

Check out January’s music reviews as well as Publisher, Rob Patz and editor, Rhonda’s Frye’s expectations for the New Year.

Remember, SGNScoops is absolutely free. Read. Enjoy. Share!

Three Bridges At Gospel Music Trust Fund Benefit Outing

Nashville, TN (October 22, 2013) Award winning Gospel group Three Bridges were privileged to attend the Gospel Music Trust Fund Outing held at Amy Grant's Farm just outside Nashville, TN on Sunday evening, October 13th.

Group owner and Baritone singer Elliott McCoy said “We were excited to be included in the attendees of this awesome event. Not only were finances raised to assist people in Gospel Music who have fallen upon hard times from sickness or disasters, but it was a fun filled day for every one attending.”

Three Bridges Baritone, Shannon Smith commented “The Gospel Music Trust Fund is a vital part of our industry that really helps our brothers and sisters in ministry in their time of need. Several people from the Southern Gospel genre were in attendance including people like Les Beasley, Bill Gaither, David Phelps, Wes Hampton, Ken Harding, Les Butler, Deon and Pam Unthank and of course Three Bridges.”

Hosted by Bill Gaither, Amy Grant, Toby Mac and Brandon Heath, other attendees included such artists as CeCe Winans, Angela Primm, Rambo McGuire, Jamie Grace, and Nicole C Mullins.

The event featured an afternoon filled with fun things to do including Elliot doing some skeet shooting. Things concluded with some good food and several artists who have received benefits from the Gospel Music Trust Fund giving testimonies to the help that they received.

To learn more about the Gospel Music Trust Fund and how to donate got to http://www.gospelmusictrustfund.org .
To learn more about Three Bridges go to http://threebridgesgospel.com .
You can reach Three Bridges by E-mail at threebridgesinfo@gmail.com .
Three Bridges is booked through the Beckie Simmons Agency at www.bsaworld.com .

****

About Three Bridges
Three Bridges music is rooted in traditional ”southern Gospel” and ”black Gospel” music. This blended style has made Three Bridges an internationally-acclaimed Gospel group — one that is known for tight harmonies, a unique vocal style, an exciting and energy packed stage presence and, most importantly, for spreading the joy of the Good News of Christ. They have entertained and ministered to millions through their recordings, TV appearances and live shows — which is why Three Bridges has quickly become one of the most prominent Gospel groups in Christian music today.

Following the release of the critically-acclaimed debut album, Soldiers (2002), Three Bridges has wowed packed-out venues across the nation…from Gospel singings, business conventions, churches, political meetings, TV shows, charitable relief events – all the way to Air Force One! They have also appeared on many of the Bill Gaither Homecoming video tapings and were special guests on a video for the United Nation.



About The Gospel Music Trust Fund
The Purpose of the Gospel Music Trust Fund is to give financial assistance in the nature of gifts in time of need, in the event of an emergency or major catastrophe, terminal or severe illness without efficient insurance, to individuals who derive or have derived a substantial portion of their income from the field of gospel music. An individual requesting assistance within the purpose of the Trust Fund, for themselves or their children must have five-years of full-time employment within the Gospel/Christian music field.

The World-Renowned GAITHER VOCAL BAND Nominated for Five 2013 Gospel Music Association DOVE Awards

NASHVILLE, Tenn.—August 27th, 2013—Multi-award-winning national recording artists the Gaither Vocal Band were honored to receive five Gospel Music Association (GMA) DOVE Award nominations for the 2013 awards as announced at the recent GMA press conference which was held at Allen Arena on the Lipscomb University campus in Nashville, Tennessee.
The legendary quintet received a nod for Song of the Year for their hit “Greatly Blessed, Highly Favored,” written by Bill Gaither and Larry Gatlin, as well as two nominations for their current, chart-climbing radio single, “Glorious Freedom,” written by Harold Lillenas and Alfred Judson and arranged by the Gaither Vocal Band. Found on their latest recording, Pure and Simple (Gaither Music Group), “Glorious Freedom” is nominated for both Southern Gospel Performance of the Year and Southern Gospel Song of the Year.
Pure and Simple, produced by Bill Gaither, Ben Isaacs, Michael English and David Phelps, is nominated for Southern Gospel Album of the Year; and the song “Come to Jesus,” also found on the release, has earned a nod for Bluegrass Song of the Year. Featuring iconic tenor David Phelps, “Come to Jesus” was written and previously recorded by Mindy Smith.
Phelps, nominated for 11 DOVES this year, is also nominated as a solo artist for “The Dream,” which is nominated for Contemporary Christian Performance of the Year, and Classic (Gaither Music Group) up for Inspirational Album of the Year. Other honors include his roles as co-producer for Classic and Pure and Simple as well as his co-production on “Glorious Freedom” and “The Dream.”
“I’m so honored as a solo artist and as a member of the Gaither Vocal Band to be nominated for these DOVES…how amazing!” commented David. “I think it’s so cool that both of these projects were kind of a ‘back to the basics’ effort for all of us. The Gaither Vocal Band album is about highlighting the harmonies that we love and have long been known for, and Classic is about celebrating my love for and roots in classical music. I’m so grateful to have been shown such overwhelming affirmation for these labors of love!”
Classic, produced by Phelps and Gaither, finds Phelps showcasing the seemingly endless breadth of his vocal range and a depth, vocally and lyrically, unprecedented by a man already considered a premier tenor. The songs, also released on DVD, include such standards and classics as “What a Wonderful World,” “O Mio Babbino Cara,” “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” “Panis Angelicus” and others.
Both Classic and Pure and Simple are distributed on CD and DVD through Capitol Christian Distribution and are available through digital stores and at retail stores everywhere. The releases are positioned heavily at retail, through catalog placement and through direct tv campaigns on networks including PBS, DISH TV, DIRECTV, AT&T U-verse, GAC, RFD, TBN, FamilyNet, CTS, CTN, TCT, TLN, FFE Airtime 1, Grace, Legacy, Miracle and Vision as well as on Gaither.com and Gaither TV (available onRoku, Google and the Internet).
Bill Gaither also received five nods for co-producing the Classic, Pure and Simple andSome People Change (Michael English) projects in addition to co-producing the songs “Glorious Freedom” and “The Dream.” Gaither is also honored for his songwriting with a nomination as co-writer of “Greatly Blessed, Highly Favored,” nominated for Song of the Year.
Group member and soloist Michael English received three additional nominations that include Southern Gospel Album of the Year (Some People Change), Southern Gospel Performance of the Year [“Stubborn (Psalm 15)”] and Southern Gospel Song of the Year [“Stubborn (Psalm 15)”]. He is also nominated as co-producer of Some People Change, Pure and Simple, “Glorious Freedom” and “Stubborn (Psalm 15).”
The 44th Annual GMA DOVE Awards presentation will be held on Tuesday, October 15, 2013, at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena in Nashville. It will be televised nationwide exclusively on UP TV.
About the Gaither Vocal Band
The Gaither Vocal Band has been making music since the early 80s when four men gathered around a piano before a Bill Gaither Trio concert and began harmonizing on the quartet classic “Your First Day in Heaven.” More than a quarter century later, the list of men who have comprised the Gaither Vocal Band over the years reads like a “Who’s Who” among gospel music’s best-loved male voices. The groundbreaking success of the Gaither Vocal Band continues to raise the standard in male harmony. The group is now comprised of Bill Gaither, Wes Hampton, David Phelps, Michael English and Mark Lowry.
About David Phelps
Contemporary and classical singer, songwriter, arranger and producer David Phelps is one of the most celebrated vocalists in the music business. Long renowned as a consummate vocalist—a lyric tenor with an astounding three-octave range—Phelps released his first classical crossover solo album entitled Classic in 2012, which hit the Billboard“Classical Crossover Albums” chart peaking at the number five spot and staying within the top 15 spots on the chart for weeks. Phelps, who tours internationally as a solo artist in addition to his performances with the Gaither Vocal Band, has performed at Carnegie Hall, the White House and many other venues and churches around the world. He has won two GRAMMY ® Awards and four GMA DOVE Awards, released more than 20 recordings and been a central part of the top-selling Gaither Homecoming video series and tv specials

DAVID PHELPS "CLASSIC” PREMIERES AS PART OF PBS ARTS

Grammy-Winning Tenor David Phelps Takes Viewers on an Eclectic Journey Through the Musical Influences That Have Shaped His Life and Award-Winning Career –

Taped in the historic Franklin Theatre in Franklin, Tennessee, DAVID PHELPS CLASSIC features the Grammy-winning tenor’s world-class vocals backed by a live orchestra. The program premieres Friday, July 26, 10:00-11:00 p.m. ET as part of the PBS ARTS Friday night lineup.

Phelps has won the hearts of audiences all over the world for more than a decade. He has performed in prestigious venues across the globe, from the White House to New York City’s Carnegie Hall to the Sydney Opera House in Australia. His electrifying voice has moved audiences with music of all kinds, including classical, Broadway, inspirational and patriotic favorites. A Baylor University graduate with a degree in vocal performance, he is also a gifted arranger who has a special touch for giving classic American favorites a fresh sound with hints of pop melodies and modern harmonies.
Phelps is a member of the renowned Gaither Vocal Band, has received two Grammy Awards and four Dove Awards, and is featured on numerous chart-topping recordings.

“David Phelps is one of the most phenomenal talents with whom I have ever worked,” said Barry Jennings, executive producer of DAVID PHELPS CLASSIC. “I believe you will be inspired by this wonderful evening of music.”

“This beautifully shot concert featuring the incredible talent and musical range of David Phelps is an excellent addition to the PBS ARTS productions,” said Michael J. LaBonia, WKNO president and CEO. “We are very proud to share this very special concert with PBS viewers nationwide.”

Phelps tours both as a solo artist and as a member of the Gaither Vocal Band. He resides on a farm outside Nashville, Tennessee, where he spends every moment of his spare time with his wife, Lori, and his children. He has used his carpentry skills to renovate an old barn into an elegant concert venue, where some of his earlier video releases were filmed.

Performances in DAVID PHELPS CLASSIC include:
“Panis Angelicus (Bread of Angels)”
“Joyful, Joyful”
“O Mio Babbino Caro (O My Beloved Father)”
“Never Walk Alone”
“Morning Has Broken”
“Lord’s Prayer”
“What a Wonderful World”
“Agnus Dei (Lamb of God)”
“Donna Non Vidi Mai (I Have Never Seen a Woman)”
“Nessun Dorma (None Shall Sleep)”
“Bring Him Home”
“America the Beautiful/God Bless America”
“Going Home”

More info is available at pbs.org

DAVID PHELPS CLASSIC is a production of Gaither Television Productions in association with WKNO National Productions. It was directed by Doug Stuckey; produced by Bill Gaither and David Phelps; with executive producers: Bill Carter, Bill Gaither and Barry Jennings.
About WKNO National Productions
WKNO presents programs for a national audience such as THE BLUES AWARDS, NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM’S FREEDOM AWARDS, SUN STUDIO SESSIONS, and BURT WOLF’S TRAVELS AND TRADITIONS. WKNO and Gaither Television productions distributed nationally via public television include HE TOUCHED ME: THE GOSPEL MUSIC OF ELVIS PRESLEY, LOVE ME TENDER: THE LOVE SONGS OF ELVIS and the series CLASSIC GOSPEL.
About PBS
PBS, with its over 350 member stations, offers all Americans the opportunity to explore new ideas and new worlds through television and online content. Each month, PBS reaches nearly 120 million people through television and over 29 million people online, inviting them to experience the worlds of science, history, nature and public affairs; to hear diverse viewpoints; and to take front row seats to world-class drama and performances. PBS’ broad array of programs has been consistently honored by the industry’s most coveted award competitions. Teachers of children from pre-K through 12th grade turn to PBS for digital content and services that help bring classroom lessons to life. PBS’ premier children’s TV programming and its website, pbskids.org, are parents’ and teachers’ most trusted partners in inspiring and nurturing curiosity and love of learning in children. More information about PBS is available at www.pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org websites on the Internet, or by following PBS on Twitter, Facebook or through our apps for mobile devices. Specific program information and updates for press are available at pbs.org/pressroom or by following PBS Pressroom on Twitter.

Premier Tenor DAVID PHELPS Records All-NEW Classic CD and LIVE Concert DVD

NASHVILLE, Tenn.——Gaither Music Group’s acclaimed vocalist David Phelps has just recorded an all-new studio CD as well as a concert DVD, scheduled to release on October 9th.

The new audio recording, Classic, produced by Phelps and Bill Gaither, finds him showcasing the seemingly endless breadth of his vocal range and a depth, vocally and lyrically, unprecedented by a man already considered a premier tenor.

“It’s been over four years since I recorded my last studio project,” stated Phelps, “…a lot of things have happened for me during that time — Gaither Vocal Band recordings and videos, a solo Christmas video and the “best of” project. One of the most positive areas of growth has been the energy that has grown behind my performance of ‘Nessun Dorma.’ I never expected it to get such a broad response, but that reaction has definitely played into the current direction for Classic.

“Bill [Gaither] came up to me about a year-and-a-half ago and asked to be involved in a new solo recording,” Phelps continues. “I had never had the opportunity to work with Bill on anything solo-related, so I was very interested. The song selection process took over a year, and the actual recording process lasted close to seven months. He and I work very well together, but his perspective is different from mine. It was a great experience to see how his mind works in this process, and it was a great confidence builder for me for him to put so much trust in me.”

The new release, arranged and orchestrated by David Phelps, David Davidson and Jason Webb, features full orchestra. Song selections include an invigorating and unpredictable arrangement of “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee,” penned lyrically by Henry J. van Dyke and set to Ludwig van Beethoven’s Hymn to Joy; an upbeat, trumpet-driven rendition of the popular hymn “Morning Has Broken,” first published in 1931; Phelps’ own arrangement of “The Lord’s Prayer” and a riveting performance of the Rodgers and Hammerstein show tune “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” introduced in the 1945 musical Carousel.

Classic showcases Phelps’ classical vocal training and performance history on selections including the poignant “Donna Non Vidi Mai (1893), a song from Act I of the Italian opera Manon Lescaut by Giacomo Puccini as well as “Bring Him Home,” from the popular stage musical Les Miserables. Phelps gives an emotional performance of “O Mio Babbino Caro” (Oh My Beloved Father), an aria from the Italian opera Gianni Schicci (1918) by Giacomo Puccini. In addition, the release features Cesar Franck’s hymn “Panis Angelicus,” with a lyric written by Saint Thomas Aquinas.

While many composers ranging from Franz Schubert and Mozart to Johann Sebastian Bach have created musical arrangements of “Agnus Dei,” the Latin “Lamb of God” doctrine, Phelps puts his own pen to paper with an original creation — a reverent and inspiring composition on which he is joined by his 14-year-old daughter, Maggie Beth. He gives a dramatic performance of a new epic ballad he penned called “The Dream,” complete with haunting melody and stirring lyrics, and combines “America the Beautiful” and “God Bless America” for a moving patriotic tribute.

A full house at Franklin, Tennessee’s newly renovated, state-of-the-art Franklin Theater was on its feet throughout the evening recently as Phelps performed the new release in addition to several of his most popular songs. Complete with orchestra, choir, a band and a guest appearance by The Gaither Vocal Band, Phelps’ powerhouse techniques varied from earnest interpretations and effortless strains to swelling arias, emitting the unfathomable control of a seasoned trained performer.

The intimate concert, to be released on DVD, included a lighthearted yet passionate rendering of the standard “What a Wonderful World” that found Phelps seated next to the grand piano played by Jack Daniels. Phelps took his own turn on the keys for “Moonlight,” a take on Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata” with lyrics that he penned as a prayer, and also performed “Ave Maria” a cappella. Also captured on the new DVD is his unique interpretation of “O Come Angel Band” and his noted performance of Giacomo Puccini’s “Nessun Dorma,” a song that brings audiences to their feet regularly during performances.

“This project has probably taken the most work of any recording I’ve done to date,” says Phelps with a relaxed smile of relief. “It’s been great to be involved in every step of it, from producing to arranging to orchestrating. I hope it moves listeners. I hope they love the music and hear the songs with fresh ears. I hope people really listen to the lyrics and find hope to get through the hard days that life can bring.”

“Gaither Music Group has had the privilege of working with some of the most talented artists in the world,” stated Barry Jennings, president of Gaither Music Group. “Among the most incredible voices we have ever heard is the classically trained tenor David Phelps. David has wowed audiences around the world with the Gaither Vocal Band and now has recorded a new album that celebrates the influences that have made him the esteemed artist that he has become. We are excited to partner with David in presenting this incredible project.”

The Gaither Vocal Band’s appearance on the new DVD included a contagious rendition of the traditional “Swing Down Chariot,” the epic “Glorious Impossible” and the reverent “All in All.”

Classic, a new release in the Gaither Gospel Series, will be distributed on CD and DVD through EMI CMG Distribution and will be available through digital stores and at retail stores everywhere. The release will be positioned heavily at retail, through catalog placement and through a direct tv campaign on networks including PBS, GAC, RFD, TBN, FamilyNet, CTS, CTN, TCT, TLN, FFE Airtime 1, Grace, Legacy, Miracle and Vision as well as on Gaither.com.

For further information regarding David Phelps, please visit www.davidphelps.com. To schedule interviews or for media assistance, please contact Celeste Winstead at CWinstead@springhillmusic.com.
Share this:

Retro SGM Radio: Favorite Seasonal Songs by SG Fans - December 2009

Christmas is a time of friends and family and sharing with those we love. For those separated by distance, sharing across the Internet is a great way of connecting during the season. From Facebook to Twitter to Southern Gospel Social Networking sites, several southern fans, industry workers and part-time artists shared some of their Christmas music with SGM Radio.

One name synonymous with Southern Gospel is Bill Gaither and the fans on the Gaither Community site certainly love Bill, Gloria and all of the Vocal Band. A quick trip to http://www.gaithercommunity.com/ brings you to a world of all things Gaither and a place full of people wanting to share about music.

A true Gaither fan, ‘Janet B’, says her favorites at Christmas are Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, Still The Greatest Story Ever Told, by the Vocal Band; One Wintry Night, by David Phelps; and the Our Daily Bread Christmas CDs. “I have several versions of ‘Mary, Did You Know’ and love them all,” says Janet. “Hard to beat Mark Lowry and the Gaither Vocal Band, but Michael English's version is sigh-worthy! Probably my favorite song right now is ‘One King’, from One Wintry Night. There's a song on Randy Travis' Christmas album called ‘Labor of Love’ that I heard several years ago and fell in love with. And it's not Christmas until I hear Perry Como singing ‘Ave Maria’!

‘O Holy Night’ by David Phelps is Sandi Miller’s top pick. This Canadian Gaither Community member says, “I saw him in concert when he was in Hamilton and it was breathtaking and uplifting. I really like his song called ‘One Wintry Night’.

‘Gospelady’, Elaine Harcourt, names her top Christmas CD’s: Talley, Ho, Ho, Ho - Kirk Talley; Merry Christmas with Ivan - Ivan Parker; and Christmas with Brian Free & Assurance. Chris Slaughter says, “The best Christmas album is A Christmas Song by Russ Taff”.

“I love Christmas music,” says Carolee Walker. “It sets the tone, and kind of gets you in the mood for the onslaught of demands that come with the holiday season. I love Sandi Patti and I think her voice is phenomenal. I love the song ‘Angels We Have Heard on High" and I believe she sings it. This Christmas, my holidays will not be as bright. I lost my precious husband on Sept. 29, 2009 to brain cancer, after a seven-year battle. He was a valiant soldier and fought long and hard. His faith in God never wavered and he witnessed for the Lord by word and an exemplary life. My one consolation is that I know without a shadow of a doubt that we will spend eternity together.”

Gaither fans are truly world-wide. Gaither member Auke Biljsma brings his thoughts from the Netherlands. “Gold City, Voices of Christmas is the best traditional quartet Christmas album ever produced. Number two on my list is Harry Connick, Jr., When My Heart Finds Christmas. Number three: Gaither Vocal Band, Still the Greatest Story. Number four: Elvis, If Every Day Was Like Christmas and Number five: The Blackwood Brothers and the Statesmen Wish You a Merry Christmas. I love the Imperials rendition of 'What Child is This'. I also have to add that David Phelps version of O Holy Night on that Gaither video is the best ever!”

‘Sallyh’ tells us that the Vocal Band’s Still the Greatest Story is her favorite as well. She also mentions Sandi Patti’s ‘Bethlehem Morning’ on it and Gold City’s ‘That Little Baby’.”

Jeanette Chernow says her favorites include, “The Christmas Memories Album by Evie Karlsson. I think it is the most meaningful and lovely Christmas album there is. Sandi Patty is also amazing; her new Christmas album is a great gift to us all. I also like ‘Bethlehem Morning’.”

‘Annie’ mentions, “The new Ernie Haase and Signature Sound Christmas recording is great. My kids love it. ‘Still the Greatest Story’ is a favorite too.” Annie also adds David Phelps’ songs ‘One Wintry Night’ and ‘One King’ to her list. Her favorite version of ‘Mary Did You Know?’ is by the Gaither Vocal Band.

There seems to be a pattern among Gaither members, but Jim Burrill doesn’t have the Vocal Band in his list. “I am very partial to the Evie Karlsson Christmas album, ‘Come on Ring those Bells’. My favorite among the Homecoming friend's Christmas is Larry Ford singing ‘Oh Holy Night’. The Imperials Christmas album was something really special. I want to mention also Steve Green's Joy to the World CD. Among my collectible recordings, I have the Gaither Trio with ‘He Started The Whole World Singing’, which was released about 1979. It features Gary McSpadden along with Bill and Gloria, and Sandi Patty did some of the backup vocals on this album.” Also mentioned is Dino's Christmas album, and Michael W. Smith's ‘It's a Wonderful Christmas’. Jim says, “There's something special when a strong believer sings about Christmas.”

JW from the Gaither Community also steps away from the norm by his comments. “I prefer instrumental Christmas CD's. Kenny G has a CD that he made several years ago that I play more than any other. My favorite song on it is "Silver Bells" and there’s nothing like Kenny G playing that saxophone to get you in the Christmas spirit. That CD is called ‘Miracles, the Holiday Album’. The whole album is amazing.”

Dean Adkins, a fixture on many southern gospel message boards and social networking sites, is known to many as a historian and connoisseur of Southern Gospel. His top pick for Christmas music is: Blackwood Brothers and Statesmen Wish You A Merry Christmas.

SoGoCity was one of the first Southern Gospel Social Networking sites on the Net, and posters there were eager to share their favorite Christmas music. Becky Goble works for the popular duet Crossway, and she shares, “I lost my mother 21 years ago to cancer. Her favorite song will forever be mine, ‘O Holy Night’. I don't really have a favorite version. I just adore the melody and lyrics beyond any others.”

Deborah Igo from SoGoCity, shared a memory from a Christmas past. “My all-time favorite song is, ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing’. It just blesses me to think of all those angels singing at the birth of our savior Jesus Christ. We sang ‘O Holy Night’ in our Christmas program at Belfast Area high school in Belfast Maine in 1968. It sounded so beautiful. We all had tears in our eyes when we finished the song. My, how times have changed.”

Stephen Widener is a music minister and soloist and can also be found on SoGoCity. Stephen shares, “My favorite Christmas CD’s are Still the Greatest Story Ever Told by the Gaither Vocal Band and A Greater Vision Christmas. I saw Mark Lowry, Buddy Greene and Anthony Burger do a live version of ‘Mary, Did You Know?’ in Charlotte North Carolina once and it was unreal. ‘O Holy Night’ is another of my favorites. If you haven't heard Donna Beauvais of Hope’s Call sing it live, you need to. Donna was one of my favorite voice teachers at Steve Hurst School of Music and she is amazing. My favorite secular song is Nat King Cole's ‘Christmas Song’. We did a cut on a Christmas CD a couple of years ago to help Tim Greene with his medical expenses. The Greenes and Hoppers were on the CD also. We did a take on Beethoven's ‘Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee’. It was special.”

Finally, we went to the fans and industry people on Facebook. Allen Cox who used to sing tenor with the Florida Boys, shares, “I actually really like the Christmas album I did with the Florida Boys. I am very proud of that recording. I also love Jewel’s Christmas album from a few years ago. I love the old Christmas ballads sung by Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, Doris Day, and Rosemary Clooney. I can’t pick just one favorite song!”

“My favorite album is actually not a southern gospel album,” says Mark Gibbs. “It's actually older than me. It's Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sister Christmas album. My sister and I used to put that album on at Christmas time and lip sync to it with combs as microphones! My favorite Christmas song is ‘Mary Did You Know’ by Mark Lowry and Buddy Green. Did the people who Jesus touched personally, in the flesh, know who and what they had right in front of them? It makes me wonder if I truly know who and what I have in my relationship with Jesus Christ. My favorite version of that song would have to be Michael English. He is such a huge natural talent voice wise and the feeling he puts into his music sets his above the rest.”

Sheri Thrower comments, “My favorite Christmas CD is by Mariah Carey. I love her song, ‘Jesus, What a Wonderful Child’." Steve Sam’s favorite is ‘That Little Baby’ by Mark Trammell and Gold City. Gary Allen says, “My yearly staple Christmas CDs are by Mannheim Steamroller; I love listening to all of them! ‘O Holy Night’ is my favorite song, either by Greater Vision or Donna Beauvais."

Rebekah Capps Downing, soprano with the New Day Spirituals, shares, “My favorite Christmas CD is an oldie. It is The Perry Sisters’ 'In The Still Of The Night'. I love their harmony; it is so smooth. My favorite song off the project is 'Light In The Window'. Larry Johnson says his two Christmas favorites are ‘Mary Did You Know” by the Gaither Vocal Band and ‘New Star Shining’ by Ricky Skaggs and James Taylor.

“I think my favorite CD overall is Celine Dion, These Are the Special Times,” says Kelly Burton, editor of SGN Scoops. “We always listen to it and Bing Crosby while putting up the tree. My favorite song on it is ‘O Holy Night’. Most amazing lyrics!

JT Raynor says, “Probably one of my favorite Christmas CDs is Jeff and Sheri Easter, ‘It feels like Christmas Again’. My favorite Christmas song is ‘I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day’, by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. I love it because it wraps up the whole theme of Christmas: Christ bringing peace and good will to all.” Singer David Waits loves the old-fashioned Christmas songs, traditional carols he grew up hearing and singing.

Ken Richwine shares, “I don't really have a favorite CD but I do like the Gaither Christmas Homecoming CD. There are several songs I like at Christmas time. Beyond the gospel songs, I like those that deal with family and home. Some of these are:
’I'll Be Home For Christmas’, ‘Walking In A Winter Wonderland’, ‘Over The River and Thru The Woods’, ‘I'm Dreaming Of A White Christmas’ and many Christmas love songs. I also like ‘Mary Did You Know’, ‘Oh Beautiful Star Of Bethlehem’, ‘Away In A Manger’, ‘The Hallelujah Chorus’, ‘I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day’, ‘Joy To The World’, ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’ and so many more. I love the warm feeling of Christmas and the time of renewed family bonding. I love the feeling of giving to others and most of all the joy and thanks for our Savior’s birth.”

Singer Karen Akemon shares, “I could mention so many Christmas songs, but there is one that really stands out to me because of the message. It's called ‘The Messiah's Coming’ and was one that was recorded when I was with The Perry Sisters, on the Christmas CD entitled The Still of The Night. Diana Gillette wrote the song, and I love it. It's the birth of Christ from Mary's perspective and how she must have felt, bearing the shame, for us to know His precious name. Beautiful song. It's so hard to narrow it down to one, but that song stops me in my tracks every Christmas, and gives me an even greater love and appreciation for the reason we celebrate the miracle of Christ's birth.”

We trust you’ve been reminded of some your favorite Christmas songs and perhaps suggested some new music for you to put on your wish list this Christmas. Fill your world with songs of Jesus this Christmas and remember to connect with loved ones near and far.

Written by Lorraine Walker. First published December 2009 on http://www.sgmradio.com
For more Christmas reading, log on to http://www.sgmradio.com