Since the beginning of Southern Gospel, groups have consisted of every age, from the old to the young. Second and third generation singers have been brought up through the ranks of family groups like the Happy Goodmans, the Rambos, the Hoppers and the McKameys. Today more than ever, we are seeing a burst of youth on the Southern Gospel scene and these young people are making their mark for their generation. With a desire to reach the lost, hone their talents, and present a fresh new sound, the new wave of Southern Gospel is taking the best of the past and forming it into a style that is finding an increasingly larger audience.SGM Radio recently talked to some of these Young Gospel artists, and asked them to share their hearts with us. Each one we talked to has their own story to share, just as each has their own style of music and how they see Southern Gospel. We hope you enjoy an insight into the music and souls of Young Gospel.
The questions we asked the Young Gospel artists were: What is the biggest challenge facing your generation in Southern Gospel? And, what is the biggest challenge of having a career in music? Here are their answers.
Stewart Varnado, The Dixie Echoes (pictured above): “I don't really know of any challenge facing my generation in SG. I think it was probably hard for those in the early days of SG, but we've got it made compared to them [eg] Buses instead of cars. Other than being away from home sometimes too much. I can't think of any reason to complain.” www.stewartvarnado.com
"The biggest challenge in having a career in music is that people or fans in general only get to see about 20% of what it takes to travel and be a singer, musician. They see us grace a platform, sing and then talk to people, but the hard part really takes place the week before and after in preparation for a concert, not including before and after a concert.
“If not for the fans and Southern Gospel supporters we would have a more difficult time trying to present our ministries to a group of folks that have never experienced a true anointed filled evening of music and worship". www.drivenqt.com
“The biggest challenge in having a career in music, I think, is, well, money - to put it bluntly. It can be pretty tough at times. I've always said, "You have to be called to do this. AND you have to love doing this because, if you're not and you don't, you're nuts!" It really is a matter of trusting the Lord...And he has NEVER let me down. The payoff is out of this world!” www.tributequartet.comMike Kofahl, Austin’s Bridge: “I think the biggest challenge facing our generation and Southern Gospel is that there are not nearly enough who know about it. What we
have found is that our generation is constantly bombarded by media encouraging them to listen to anything and every thing but SG music. This is why I feel it our responsibility to reach out to them and show them that there is great music being made in southern gospel,
that caries a message of hope.” www.austinsbridge.com
We hope you’ve enjoyed this insight into the world of Young Gospel. Be sure to hear these artists the next time they are in your area and support the next generation of Southern Gospel Music.
By Lorraine Walker
First published July 2007 on http://www.sgmradio.com
For current artist features, please go to http://www.sgmradio.com
