Jim Sheldon Homecoming Is Huge Success

Danville, KY (November 17, 2014) Jim Sheldon Homecomings are becoming a big deal in Danville, KY, as Jim brings in some of the very best talent Gospel Music has to offer. Last year he featured the Isaacs, this year Brian Free and Assurance. It doesn't get any better than this.

Held on a Thursday evening to a large crowd considering the intense weather covering the area. No matter, the crowd braved the weather to enjoy the electrifying music and message provided on this enjoyable evening.

Known as the Positive Cowboy from his regular role on the Music City Show, seen on RFD-TV, Jim warmed those in attendance with many of his chart busting songs, including "I Saw A Man”, "Mansion In the Sky” and of course the emotional song he wrote in honor of his sister "Even After”. 

Joining Jim onstage was the Positive Cowboy Band which included great Nashville musicians Jeff Parker – Mandolin, Molly Cherry Holmes – Fiddle, Mark Fain - Leader/Upright Bass, Lynn Williams – Drums, and Seth Taylor – Guitar. Jim commented, "I love singing with the live music and it doesn't get any better than the Positive Cowboy Band.”

Brian Free and Assurance totally blew away the audience with their lively repertoire of hit's both present and past. The crowd was on its feet several times as they performed their Dove winning song "Say Amen” as well as their signature song "Long As I've Got King Jesus”.

Emcee for the evening as well as performing was Comedian extraordinaire Tim Lovelace. 

A special thanks goes to Bev McCann (Manager) for presenting Jim with Plaques of Two #1 Songs, "I Saw A Man" & "Mansion In The Sky".
Speaking of the success of his Homecoming, Jim said, "This was an event I look forward to every year and I Am One Blessed Man. Praise God!”

To learn more about Jim Sheldon, The Positive Cowboy go to http://www.jimsheldonmusic.com or https://www.facebook.com/jim.sheldon . You can Twitter Jim at https://twitter.com/JimSheldonmusic .
To book Jim Sheldon for your church service or concert contact bev.a.mccann@gmail.com .

Legendary 84th Annual MO/Mid-South Gospel Singing Convention Held in Malden, MO at Community Center

Hello Folks,

Heart To Heart hosts the 84th Annual MO/Mid-South Gospel Singing Convention held at the Malden, MO Community Center on Fri. and Sat. Sept. 19-20; and we would appreciate your helping us to get the word out with a news release or addition to your community calendar in your area.  We have groups from all over the country and several from the Springfield/Branson area as well as NE Arkansas, SE Missouri, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Tennessee and Texas.

The venue holds about 800 and we hope to pack the place!  Admission is FREE to the public.  A love offering will be accepted to offset convention expenses.  We will have over 32 premiere groups and artists and some of the best Gospel music you would hear anywhere.  There will be concessions, door prizes, silent auction, fun AND blessings for all.

If you could help us get the word out, we'd very much appreciate it.  Have a blessed weekend! 

By the way, I am sending a poster and pic of Heart To Heart just so you know who you are talking to!  We'd also be happy to serve your area with either our Gospel Program or our "Heart & Soul of Branson Variety Show" and are booking 2015 now..

Thank you so much for your help.  Hope to see you at convention!

Jerry and Sharon Mays
HEART TO HEART

"The Heart & Soul of Branson"

 

Grammy & Dove Award Nominees

2014 CGC Int'l. Choice Awards Duo of the Year

2014 CGMA Silver Heart Duo of the Year
2013 & 2012 National AGAPE Fan Awards Duo of the Year (Fan Voted)

2013 Country Gospel Music Fanfest Duo of the Year (Fan Voted)

2012 Country Gospel Music Association Central Fan Awards Duo of the Year (Fan Voted)

2012 & 2011 Country Gospel Connection Choice Awards Int'l. Duo of the Year (Radio)

2010 National Duet & Vocal Group of the Year - GMA/IMMERSE - Nashville

Multi Award-Winning Songwriters

Hosts "The Branson Gospel Groove" Radio Show

Feature Writers, Country Gospel Connection Magazine

Regularly Featured Artists on The Branson Stage

417-576-5188hearttoheartmusicgroup@gmail.com
www.hearttoheartmusicgroup.com

 

"Powerful Gospel & Family Music, Always With

Heart & Soul!"

Sneed Family Part Of Kentucky's 100 Year Celebration

Frankfort, KY (August 12, 2014) The Kentucky Governor's office recently contacted the award winning Sneed Family with an invitation to be a part of the celebration taking place in Frankfort, Ky as they celebrate 100 years of life, service and history at the Kentucky Governor's Mansion.

Several celebrations have taken place since the first of the year to commemorate this milestone year of the Mansion's 100 years that included concerts, symposiums, art displays, receptions, garden parties, state dinners, lectures, and other historical/educational experiences. One of the things that Governor and Mrs. Beshear wanted to be sure to include on the list of events was a Gospel music concert.

The concert will take place on Sunday, September 21 in a large tent set up on the grounds of the Governor's Mansion.

In addition to the Sneed Family other artist scheduled to appear are the Isaacs, Beyond the Ashes, His Heart Quartet, Marlana Vanhoose and Roy Webb. Kenny Bishop will lead the event and serve as host. Roy will be leading a house band to keep the evening moving along. Since Governor Beshear and his family used to sing in their own church many years ago, it is a possibility that they will get together again for a few songs.

The Governor's Mansion will be open for walk-through 
tours before and after the concert for the public to enjoy along with getting to meet the Governor and First Lady. The Sneed Family being from the rolling hills of Kentucky are excited to be a part of their home-state celebration.

The Sneed Family will be taking a tour bus for those fans wanting to attend. The Bus Tour includes the concert, a tour of the Mansion and bus ride for $60.00 per person. There is limited seating and also limited time for those interested in the bus tour.

To be a part of this exciting event or book the Sneed Family for your event call the Sneed Family office at 270-678-3575 .

To learn more about the Sneed Family go to http://www.sneedfamily.com or https://www.facebook.com/sneedfamily .
****
About The Sneed Family
The Sneed Family began its gospel music journey in 1982 as “Sneed Family Music Show” with four young men just out of High School. The group was founded by 18-year-old pianist and baritone, Jeff Sneed. Jeff met and married Pam Saylors who not only became his wife, but his singing partner. Today they are living our dream by standing on stage with their entire family night after night. Since the groups beginning it has flourished into a current day family ministry team. Today’s group is made up of Jeff Sneed (vocals, piano), Pam Sneed (vocals), Amanda Cowan (vocals, mandolin), Caleb Cowan (vocals), Seth Sneed (vocals, rhythm & bass guitar), and Jacob Sneed (drums). In early 2008 The Sneed Family launched a brand new Christian Television Show called “Glory Bound Jubilee” on WPBM Proclaim Broadcasting.

McCray Dove and the Dove Brothers Band

Hello Everyone! Come out and see us in Kentucky this weekend! Saturday, August 2, 2014 @ 7:00pm Renfro Valley All Night Gospel Sing Renfro Valley Theatre Renfro Valley, KY Sunday, August 3, 2014 @ 6:00pm Newton Creek Baptist Church Kevil, KY

The Singing Byrds Release New Song

Written by SGN Scoops Staff on July 22, 2014

The Singing Byrds

The Singing Byrds from Danville, Kentucky have released a new song to radio. It was sent to radio on Patterson Promotions compilation ~ Volume 15 {in the independant Artist section} and can also be found at:  www.musictoradio.com.

The song “Gonna Run On Home Now” a Spencer Family classic, written by Barbara and Kevin Spencer from Mansfield, Ohio,  is the second release from their current project, “Homesick” which was recorded at Family Room Studios in Nashville with Pastor Robb Tripp.

To book this Ministry or to order product, you may contact: Jeanie Bailey at 859-236-7740, or e-mail,

 thesingingbyrds777@yahoo.com

McCray Dove and the Dove Brothers Band

The guys are busy on the road this week. Today they are in Texas at the Daystar studios filming an episode of Gospel Music Showcase with Guy Penrod. They will continue this week with concerts in Kentucky and Indiana. If you live in these areas or traveling through don't miss an opportunity to see them.   Thursday, July 24, 2014 @ 7:00pm High Point Pentecostal Church Paducah, KY Friday, July 25, 2014 @ 7:00pm Blue Gate Restaurant and Theatre Shipshewana, IN  Come early and enjoy an Amish style dinner before the concert! Saturday, July 26, 2014 @ 7:00pm North Charles Town Church of God Charles Town, IN

The East Ridge Boys Sign Exclusive Booking Agreement

From the beautiful and majestic hills of Eastern Kentucky, the East Ridge Boys from Pike County KY have entered into an exclusive booking agreement with 4 Hymn Promotions in Madison, Indiana.

The East Ridge Boys bring an exciting and vibrant ministry to tell others about Jesus Christ through their songs and testimonies. They are absolutely no strangers to the Southern Gospel realm for which their blend of harmony and ministry coincide to present a beautiful rendition of Southern Gospel at its best.

The East Ridge Boys are a part of a new-found family of artists that minister to the loss and 4 Hymn Promotions is honored to have them as a part of our growing family. Bill Evilsizer, CEO and founder of 4 Hymn Promotions considers this a wondrous time to work with devoted Christian men who strive to serve our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Wilds & Associates Announces Positive Changes for 2014 Gospel Music Event

(Kennedy, AL / October 2, 2013)

In 2005, Southern Gospel Music FanFair launched its inaugural event in Chattanooga, Tenneessee. The event moved to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee in 2009. The following year, Wilds & Associates launched the Country Gospel Music FanFest, adding even more variety for Gospel music fans.

With great anticipation of their 10th anniversary event, Wilds & Associates has announced exciting changes coming in 2014.

SGM FanFair and CGM FanFest are being combined into one event. Beginning with their 2014 season, Gospel music fans can now enjoy a variety of traditional and progressive Southern, Country, Bluegrass, Inspirational and Urban Gospel music all under one roof.

This will also mean a name change for the annual, six-day event. Encompassing the various sub-genres, the event name has been officially changed to Gospel Music FanFair.

As a result of the name change, a new website is currently under development at www.gospelmusicfanfair.com. The new site will offer all the information about the 2014 event, including an artist appearance itinerary for attendees, exhibit booth information for artists and vendors, daily scheduled activities, ticket information and much more.

The event will continue to feature morning worship services, afternoon matinees, daily showcases, evening concerts and a newly revamped fan awards show. (Details concerning the new Gospel Music Fan Awards are forthcoming.)

The biggest change, perhaps, is the location of the newly reorganized event. The new Gospel Music FanFair will premier at the state-of-the-art theatre of the Center for Rural Development in Somerset, Kentucky. The prestigious Center is located in the heart of the beautiful Lake Cumberland. The theatre is the “crown jewel and showpeice’ of The Center, where some of the top names in music have performed including the world-renowned National Symphony Orchestra.

On-site parking and plenty of nearby hotel accommodations will ensure convenience to artists, vendors, and fans. And in addition to all the outdoor fun of Lake Cumberland, Somerset offers a wide variety of shops, restaurants and attractions suitable for the entire family.

The Gospel Music FanFair is scheduled to take place May 12-17, 2014.

Randall Wilds, CEO of Wilds & Associates, states, “We believe these changes will result in a very positive experience for attendees. Everyone is cordially invited to join us for this special 10th anniversary event as we continue the tradition of Gospel music, fellowship and family fun - creating wonderful memories for years to come.”

For more information, visit the new website at www.gospelmusicfanfair.com or call Wilds & Associates at 205-662-4826.

BLUEGRASS CELEBRATION CREATED FROM EXISTING AND NEW EVENTS TO LAUNCH JUNE 2013

LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY – Inspired by the 40th anniversary of the “Festival of the Bluegrass”, a group of local music, civic and city leaders announced a week-long celebration called “Best Of Bluegrass” – also being referred to affectionately by its acronym - “BOB”.

The new event, to be held June 3-8, will take place at venues all over the Lexington area as well as the traditional location at the Kentucky Horse Park.
An eclectic mix of entities are involved, including the Lexington Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, Cornett-IMS, Downtown Lexington Corporation, LAMA, LFUCG, Lextran, Natasha’s, Smiley Pete Publishing, Red Barn Radio, Southland Jamboree, Willie’s and Woodsongs – with even more planned to be announced later this year.

Tom Martin of Lexington Area Musicians Association (LAMA), commented, “Our ultimate aim is to make this an annual celebration uniting existing performance assets within our city --- some that are relatively new and some that have thrived since the 70’s.”

One of those is the Festival of the Bluegrass, created by the Cornett family and carried on today by Roy Cornett and his wife AnnaMarie. “The mission of our festival has been to celebrate Appalachian culture through traditional bluegrass music. But we couldn’t be more excited to be a part of “BOB” and help it grow as well as getting people to our event.”

For the first time ever, through a partnership with Lextran, trolley service will be available from the center of downtown Lexington to the Kentucky Horse Park during the Festival of the Bluegrass.

Jim Browder, President of Lexington’s Convention & Tourism Bureau, feels that BOB could be an exciting lure for regional tourists. “This will bring a wealth of new visitors here, given the popularity of the bluegrass music genre and our region’s already world class allure,” said Browder.

Starting on Monday, June 3 and continuing through June 8, various national and regional bluegrass artists will perform in prominent locales – many in the downtown Lexington area. In addition, BOB will also feature numerous “hands on” workshops with some of the top names in bluegrass music.

“This is a very exciting development for our city from a tourism and economic development perspective,” declared Lexington Mayor Jim Gray. “Our goal is to eventually make our storied bluegrass region the home of the bluegrass industry’s big events – including their two-day convention and awards show.”

National Quartet Convention Announces Plans for 2013 and Move in 2014

National Quartet Convention Announces Plans for 2013

The National Quartet Convention has announced the dates for the 2013 NQC. September 9 - 14 will be the dates for the 2013 NQC in Louisville, Kentucky. The event will be very special, as it will be the last year for the event to be held in Louisville. Many special and unique events are being planned for 2013, to celebrate the end of a wonderful era for the NQC in Louisville.

Thousands of attendees from across the United States and Canada, as well as several countries around the world, will gather one last time in Louisville to relive great memories from two decades of gatherings at the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center. Plans are already underway to make the 2013 NQC one of the biggest and best weeks of the event's 55-year history. Many first-time attendees are also expected, as it will be their last chance to experience the NQC in this historic location.

In September of 2014, the National Quartet Convention will begin a new and exciting era as Gospel Music's Largest Annual Event moves to one of America's most popular, family-friendly vacation destinations... Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

Reserved seating can be purchased for the 2013 NQC during this week's event, in the North Wing Lobby of the Kentucky Fair & Exposition Center, and will then be available at www.nqconline.com throughout the year. Attendees are urged to reserve seating and lodging early for the final year in Louisville.

National Quartet Convention Announces the NQC Music Awards Nominees

Louisville, KY – The National Quartet Convention has announced the 2012 nominees for the NQC Music Awards. In partnership with the Southern Gospel Music Guild, the NQC will present these awards on Friday afternoon during the Friday afternoon Showcase Spectacular in Freedom Hall in Louisville, KY, on September 14.

According to the NQC Executive Vice President, Clarke Beasley, the awards will be presented based on both fan popularity and professional excellence, with two divisions of awards that will be presented. The first division is the Fan Awarded categories where awards will be determined by fan voting.

The second division will be the Industry Awarded Categories, which will be determined by the music professionals that participate as exhibitors during the National Quartet Convention. No purchase was required for those that are participating in the voting. All that was required is that they were registered on the NQC e-mail list prior to July 1st.

Beasley also states that the Southern Gospel Music Guild is an important partner in this process, as the SGMG is responsible for determining the category criteria, as well as screen entries for eligibility. The SGMG professional membership also determines the recipient of the annual Les Beasley Award, given to a person or company that has made a significant impact in the field of Gospel Music.

Below is a complete list of the nominees for the 2012 NQC Music Awards.

FAN CATEGORIES
Bass Singer of the Year Nominees:
Bennett, Eric – Triumphant Qt
Chapman, Jeff – Kingdom Heirs
Duncan, Tim – Canton Junction
Dustin, Glenn – Legacy Five
Riley, Tim – Gold City

Baritone Singer of the Year Nominees:
Brady, Jim – Booth Brothers
Griffin, Rodney – Greater Vision
Inman, Scott – Triumphant Qt
Lowry, Mark – Gaither Vocal Band
Trammell, Mark – Mark Trammell Qt

Lead Singer of the Year Nominees:
Booth, Ronnie – Booth Brothers
English, Michael – Gaither Vocal Band
Habedank, Joseph – Perrys
Rice, Arthur – Kingdom Heirs
Wolfe, Gerald – Greater Vision

Tenor Singer of the Year Nominees:
Allman, Chris – Greater Vision
Booth, Michael – Booth Brothers
Free, Brian – Brian Free & Assurance
Haase, Ernie – Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
Phelps, David – Gaither Vocal Band

Soprano Singer of the Year Nominees:
Alvey, Lauren Talley – Talleys
Collingsworth, Brooklyn – Collingsworth Family
Hopper, Kim – Hoppers
Isaacs Yeary, Sonya – Isaacs
Peck Gooch, Karen – Karen Peck & New River

Alto Singer of the Year Nominees:
Easter, Sheri – Jeff & Sheri Easter
Hopper, Connie – Hoppers
Stuffle, Libbi – Perrys
Talley, Debra – Talleys
Whisnant, Susan – Whisnants

Soloist of the Year Award Nominees:
Bishop, Mark
Crabb, Jason
Greene, TaRanda
Parker, Ivan
Penrod, Guy

Male Group of the Year Nominees:
Booth Brothers
Gaither Vocal Band
Greater Vision
Kingdom Heirs
Triumphant Qt

Mixed Group of the Year Nominees:
Collingsworth Family
Hoppers
Isaacs
Karen Peck & New River
Perrys

Musician of the Year Nominees:
Collingsworth, Kim – Collingsworth Family
Mote, Gordon
Stice, Jeff – Triumphant Qt
Williams, Kevin – Gaither Vocal Band
Wolfe, Gerald – Greater Vision

Album of the Year Nominees:
Celebrate Me Home (Oak Tree) – Perrys
Let It Be Known – Booth Brothers
Part of the Family – Collingsworth Family
Songs From the Heart – Triumphant Quartet
The Only Way – Greater Vision

Song of the Year Nominees:
Almost Home – Triumphant Quartet
Ask Me Why – Legacy Five
Blue Skies Coming – Perrys
I Believe – Brian Free & Assurance
I Know a Man Who Can – Greater Vision
I Want to Know – Mark Trammell Quartet
Please Forgive Me – Gaither Vocal Band
Saved By Grace – Triumphant Quartet
She Still Remembers Jesus Name – Booth Brothers
Tell Me Why – Kingdom Heirs
Who Am I – Jason Crabb

INDUSTRY CATEGORIES

Arranger/Producer of the Year Nominees:
Lari Goss
Wayne Haun
Ben Isaacs
Donna King
Steve Mauldin
Rick Sandidge
David Staton
Roger Talley

Concert Promoter of the Year Nominees:
Bill Bailey
Landon Beene
Ray Flynn
Bill Gaither
Brian Lester
Mike Wheeler

Radio Station of the Year Nominees:
WBOZ – Nashville
WCGW – Lexington
WJBZ – Knoxville
WTRM – Winchester, VA
WXRI – Winston Salem

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR AWARD: The SGMG Awards and Criteria Committee will pull the Singing News radio charts for the eligibility time period and will assign each songwriter fifteen points for a number one song, ten points for a song in the top ten and five points for a song in the top 20. The total points for the eligibility period will be tabulated for each writer and the writer with the most points will be awarded Songwriter of the Year.

To obtain a complete schedule of events scheduled during the 2012 National Quartet Convention, visit www.nqconline.com.

SOUTHERN GOSPEL MUSIC GUILD ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH NATIONAL QUARTET CONVENTION TO PRODUCE THE NQC MUSIC AWARDS

NASHVILLE, TN (February 16, 2012) – The Southern Gospel Music Guild has announced that they will be partnering with the National Quartet Convention to create a brand new awards presentation called the NQC Music Awards. These awards will be presented at the National Quartet Convention on Friday afternoon, September 14th during the Friday afternoon NQC Showcase Spectaculars in Freedom Hall.

“This awards presentation will be unique in several ways,” states Clarke Beasley, SGMG President and NQC Executive Vice President. “I believe we can expect a very large voting base to participate and much interest will be generated by the fact that awards will be given in both fan popularity and professional excellence divisions.”

There will be two divisions of awards that will be presented. The first division will be the Fan Awarded categories where awards will be determined by fan voting. To participate in the voting, all that is required is to sign up on the NQC e-mail list at www.nqconline.com. There is no purchase of anything required. The second division will be the Industry Awarded Categories, which will be determined by the music professionals that participate as exhibitors during the National Quartet Convention.

The Southern Gospel Music Guild will determine the category criteria as well as screen entries for eligibility. The SGMG professional membership will also determine the voting base for the industry categories and the recipient of the annual Les Beasley Award, given to a person or company that has made a significant impact in the field of Gospel Music.

To participate in the voting of the NQC Music Awards by signing up on the NQC e-mail list, just go to www.nqconline.com. A complete schedule of events set to take place during the 2012 National Quartet Convention may also be obtained there.

ABOUT SGMG
About the Southern Gospel Music Guild: In 1986, several Southern Gospel music leaders decided the industry needed an organization to foster the growth of the Southern Gospel music genre. Through the years, the Guild has grown to include every facet of the Southern Gospel music industry, encompassing artists (full-time and part-time), record companies, radio, promoters, publishers, distributors, talent management, media representatives, and booking agents. These professionals work together collectively to expand the economic base of the Southern Gospel Music industry.

ABOUT THE 2012 NATIONAL QUARTET CONVENTION
This year marks the 55th Annual National Quartet Convention. The Convention has made its home in the city of Louisville since 1994. Approximately 40,000 people will attend the 2012 event, which takes place September 9-15, with at least 40 states and a half dozen foreign countries represented. The Convention is Christian music's largest marketplace and largest annual event with more than 500 exhibitors and nearly 300 Southern Gospel recording artists in attendance. Seats for daily and evening performances may be purchased at the NQC office, online at www.nqconline.com or on site during the week of the Convention in the North Wing lobby at the Kentucky Expo Center.

Retro SGM Radio: Clarke Beasley and the NQC, June 2006

Clarke Beasley: At the Helm of the National Quartet Convention

The National Quartet Convention has long been one of the biggest and most prestigious Southern Gospel institutions. From its humble beginnings in 1957 in Memphis, Tennessee, this weeklong event sees fans and performers from all over the world descending on Louisville Kentucky for six days and nights of Southern Gospel Music. Sgmradio recently caught up with NQC Executive Director, Clarke Beasley, to find out about the man behind the helm of what JD Sumner called, “The Grand Daddy of them all”.

Clarke Beasley, son of a man who is also a Southern Gospel institution, Les Beasley, took on the role of Executive Director of the National Quartet Convention in 1993.“It was a big challenge, but it was also very exciting”, Clarke says. “ I had been working at the GMA for two years and had received quite a bit of event planning experience there helping to produce GMA Week. That really prepared me for the job at NQC… I was hired [initially] to bring all of the convention services in house, i.e. ticketing, advertising promotion, event management, etc., and move our headquarters to Louisville in preparation for the event’s move to Louisville in 1994.”

When JD Sumner first conceived the idea of a three-day event, he wanted to bring together artists and industry personnel, which was a unique idea at the time. However, Clarke also pays tribute to another Southern Gospel legend for making the NQC come to life. “[JD] was singing for the Blackwood Brothers at the time and convinced James Blackwood that it was something the Blackwood Brothers should sponsor. Much credit should be given to James Blackwood for being willing to take the initial risk.”

The National Quartet Convention is now a major production; a yearlong project directed by a board that oversees all of the activities, exhibits, concerts and showcases. What might appear enormously daunting to outside observers, Clarke as Executive Director finds exciting. “It is a multi-faceted event with many moving parts. The challenge is to keep all of the balls in the air without dropping any of them. That aspect of the job makes it a continuous challenge.”

“I love the event itself, and I always have. Even though I have enormous responsibilities now, I still love the event as much as I did when I attended the event as a kid. The actual event itself always charges my batteries for the planning process that takes place throughout the year.”

There are always special occurrences at NQC that are not experienced anywhere else, and as both industry insider and Southern Gospel fan, Clarke has his favourite memories. “The moments that stand out were the Speer Family retirement celebration, the Singing Senators performance (Trent Lott, Larry Craig, John Ashcroft and Jim Jeffords) and of course the Cathedrals Retirement and Glen Payne’s [call-in] performance of “I Won’t Have to Cross Jordan Alone.” That was probably the most special moment of them all.”



The 49th year of the National Quartet Convention promises to provide many memorable moments of its own. The Celebrity Baseball game is returning, as well as the Pianorama with famed pianist Dino. Friday afternoon will provide concertgoers the special treat of a presentation of the Brooklyn Tabernacle Singers along with Jim and Carol Cymbala. This will be of special interest to those who sing in their own church choir, and many who enjoy the ministry of the Cymbalas and Brooklyn Tabernacle. Clarke talks about this event directed to Church.

“I firmly believe that much of the future of our music will be determined by to what extent we can become a regular component of Sunday morning music in America’s mainstream churches. Bringing in the Cymbalas helps us appeal to a range of church leadership that might not otherwise be interested in what we are doing. Brian Hudson, who is handling many of the Brooklyn Tabernacle Singers dates, mentioned the idea to me, and I thought it was a great idea. With Dr. Jeremiah leading the morning Bible study, the Cymbalas and Brooklyn Tab performing that afternoon along with Mike Speck’s choral extravaganza, the Friday package has a stronger church appeal than we have ever offered. You can expect more of this in the future.”

This choir presentation, along with the webcast of NQC Radio, and the soon to be released NQC TV, are just some of the new initiatives being developed to keep NQC relevant to its audience, and to help it to retain it’s notoriety as the premiere SGM event of the year. Clarke explains that it’s these one-of-a-kind events that will help the NQC retain its competitive edge. To those who think that this event has had it’s day, he responds, “Some say that about our music in general. I believe that as the music goes, so goes the NQC. That is why I work really hard to expand the economic base of the entire industry through my work with the Southern Gospel Music Guild. I currently serve as President of the Guild, and I really enjoy working on behalf of the industry at large.”

“SGM is musically charming and unique…however, the most important component of our music is the overt, straight-forward presentation of Biblical truth within its lyric. We must guard with all vigilance that component of our music to insure that never changes.”

Clarke has seen the industry from both a performer and a promoter outlook. He traveled for several years with the Florida Boys, and knows what it’s like to get on the road, week after week. “What many do not realize is how truly arduous the lifestyle is. Traveling over 200 days a year is enormously taxing both physically and psychologically. Those who do it are truly called and gifted.”

Having this insight into the life of a Southern Gospel Artist has given Clarke great regard for many of the industry’s performers who have been traveling for decades. This includes his father, Les Beasley. He is grateful to have grown up as the son of one of SGM’s legends. “It was quite a privilege, not just because of his status in Gospel Music, but because of who he is. I cannot imagine a greater example to emulate.” Clarke continues, “My favorite quote of his is, ‘There is no limit to what someone can do as long as he does not care who receives the credit.’ That is a belief he has lived by.”

Meanwhile, Clarke’s own children are not quite ready for the SGM mantel to be passed down to them. They do enjoy Southern Gospel, but haven’t yet shown interest in becoming involved in the family business. “My children are 10 and 7, so their primary interests right now are in baseball, their friends, and how they can blame each other for their bathrooms being messy.”

The next generation will tell the tale of the future of Southern Gospel. What does Clarke see as the future of SGM? “I see a future where we are a regular component of Sunday morning worship in most churches. I also see a future where high standards will be set and artists will be required to meet them. These high standards will be set not only in musical excellence but in ministry readiness and in personal conduct.”

“I believe that the next five years will be of critical importance to the next 20 years of the future of our music, and as I said before, as the music goes, so goes the NQC.” Clarke continues, “I am very optimistic on what we can achieve within the next five years and in the future beyond that. I am convinced our music will be used as a powerful tool of evangelism to reach the lost and encourage the believers.”

Clarke Beasley and his team are working hard to pull together an event that will, as always, surpass the year before it. That requires a day-to-day determination to keep to the vision and mission of the event, as they work toward September and the beginning of the 49th NQC. Even Clarke however, is aware that SGM and the NQC are rooted in an experience in the daily lives of the singers, songwriters, and all who are involved in this type of musical evangelism. He was reminded of this lesson again recently.

“With one of my close friends and neighbors losing his wife this week, I am reminded that life is precious and short, and I should strive every day to enjoy the God-given blessing of life and make each day contribute something to the Kingdom of God.”

For more information on the National Quartet Convention, click on www.natqc.com

First published June 2006 on www.sgmradio.com
Written by Lorraine Walker

For current features and columns, click on http://www.sgmradio.com

Retro SGM Radio: Kenny Bishop - Grace Works For Everyone

Front Porch singing, concerts in every major venue and city, award-winning recordings, family camaraderie, and a very special combination of talent, voice, personality, and music style. The Bishops were well known and much loved when they retired in 2001. Kenny Bishop went on to delve into politics and began to see the Lord work and change him as he found himself on a new path. This path has led him to start 2006 with a schedule filling with engagements, a solo recording about to be released, and a desire in his heart to reach those who stand on the fringe of the church, looking for acceptance and grace.


Kenny recently took a few moments to share with Sgmradio his thoughts and plans for this new season in his life, in his first extensive interview since returning to the music scene. We present this interview almost in its entirety, to share with you the heart of this unusual artist and man of God.



Sgmradio: Kenny, your mission for your life…more than just your music…is outlined on your website. Can you explain to us your vision for your music as you head into this New Year? What do you want to say to your audience?


Kenny: For over fifteen years I enjoyed standing in front of audiences, blending voices with my dad and my brother, encouraging Christians and trying to convince non-believers to trust Christ as their redeemer and Lord. I was thrilled, especially, when I felt we had connected the audience with the One we were singing about. And honestly, that didn’t happen every night. But the sense of completeness I felt when it did was my assurance that we were doing the thing God wanted us to do at the time.


My approach today is a bit different. More than I’d like to be viewed as a singer, I want more to be understood as a communicator who tries to build bridges and understanding among those who profess Faith, and those who feel they’ve been alienated by those same people. The music is a vehicle that allows me an audience that is made up mostly of people who are pretty sure of what they believe. My years with the Bishops are making that possible.


But I’m convinced that we, as “religious” people need to be challenged. So, when I have the opportunity now to stand and sing to a group of solid Believers who are settled into their Christian routine, I challenge them to do something dangerous. I ask them to do the thing that Jesus did when he stepped outside of the accepted religious norm, objected to the exclusivity of the church of the day and reached into the world of the hurting, wounded and unwanted. I ask them to stop living up to the stereotype of being satisfied with their own spiritual condition while shunning and locking out anyone who would not fit comfortably into their group. I challenge them to truly study the life and deeds of Christ and make him their example for ministry. Most basically, my message is, if grace works for anyone it works for everyone. It’s for everyone or for no one.


Sgmradio: You have a new project hitting the streets soon. Can you tell us about this recording and its producer?


Kenny: I’m honestly a little nervous about this recording. It’s been over four years since I’ve been in a studio as an artist. It’s been ten years since I’ve recorded a solo piece. But as apprehensive as I am, I’m equally as thrilled with the opportunity to do it again…Right now the projected street date is sometime around mid-spring.


When I sat down with the record company to discuss my goals and hopes for the project we batted around several names to consider as the producer. When Norman Holland suggested Woody Wright I jumped on it...I’ve known Woody for a long time; he and I had an instant connection with the message of grace, which is what this recording is all about.



Sgmradio: Tell us about some of the writers for this new release. Are any of the songs “Kenny originals”?


Kenny: Even before I was aware that I would ever do this project, I decided, if I ever made another record, that I wanted the message to be singularly focused. I wanted to bare my heart in every song. And right now the thing that is on my heart more than anything else is grace.


So Daywind assembled several of their great writers in a room, and dialed in several more on a conference call and allowed me to address them personally. I shared my heart and my passion for reaching once-upon-a-time Believers who’ve felt abandoned by the Christian community. I also told them of my desire to try and awaken the church community to the enormous mission field that is within close reach of their own doors, and my desire to try and challenge them to take the risk of going after them. Several great songs came from that session. Woody Wright is not only a great producer; he is also an unbelievable writer. He contributed to this project, as did Gerald Crabb, Sonya Isaacs and Becky Isaacs Bowman, Jeff Steele, and Dawn Doss. I co-wrote a couple of songs with Caleb Collins and Adam Kohout and wrote another piece as well.


Sgmradio: What is the most special song to you on this new project?


Kenny: …The song that probably says what I hope to convey more than any of the others is “Don’t Let Who You Are Keep You Away.” In Scripture, Christ was the perfect example of acceptance and reception. The same God who desires a relationship with an outcast, unreligious Samaritan woman also receives an honest hyper-religious rule-keeper like Nicodemus. He tells both of them, in a sense, “Don’t let who you are keep you away.” If those two polar opposites are welcomed into God’s realm, all of us can be.


Sgmradio: Can you describe your ‘solo’ sound for us?


Kenny: One of the things I hope to accomplish on this record is to identify a sound that I can enjoy singing, an audience can relate to and enjoy, and one that will avoid sounding like my brother. Mark is such a phenomenal talent. His writing is clever and unmatched, and his sound is unmistakable and so enjoyable. But we are brothers, and it would be easy to drift into his sound if I’m not careful. I’m not sure how to tag it, but the base for my sound will definitely be Southern Gospel.


Sgmradio: Do you have a close-future goal of what you would like to see happen with your music/ministry, in perhaps the next 6 months to a year?


Kenny: I don’t think I’m capable of looking that far ahead. I’m really surprised at this point that we’re even discussing records, appearances and music. I wasn’t sure that I would ever have another opportunity to share in a public way again. Not too long ago I was convinced that I had squandered all of my chances to make any kind of declarations about God’s love, whether through songs or sharing the Scriptures. God continues to surprise me with opportunities, so I find it difficult to make any plans on my own. My goal though is simply to go in the direction that God makes available and tell about grace when I get there.


Sgmradio: Your calendar is filling with engagements. Tell us about the kinds of venues and places you will be visiting in the coming months. (Editor’s note: Kenny Bishop is being represented by the Tana Lonon Agency, based in Florida).


Kenny: I have a wonderful support team that understands my approach to ministry. Daywind Records and the folks there are simply marvelous. Tana Lonon is a crucial part of the team as well. She and I have spent lots of time talking about our shared vision of doing what it takes and going wherever we can to share the message of unconditional love. In so many ways, I couldn’t begin to compare myself to Jesus, but I’ve asked her to imagine if He had a booking agent, how would a request for Him to come and minister be handled. We can’t think of a place He wouldn’t go, or a group of people who couldn’t benefit from His message and ministry. As it is right now, I’m pretty much singing and sharing exclusively in churches. I wouldn’t be disappointed if that never changed.


Sgmradio: Your website indicates more of an emphasis on reaching people where they really are. How has this affected the way you interact with your audience?


Kenny: The departure of the Bishops was abrupt and final. A lot of people were confused, angry and worried. The situation was not good; however, the rumors that made their way back to me were even more sordid. I did not want to just reappear as quickly and without explanation as I disappeared. I could not pretend that my departure four years ago was noble or righteous. At the same time, I did not want to embarrass anyone or say more than was necessary.


But I was determined to be honest and let people know that Prodigals do come home. In my rebellion I learned a lot – probably more than I ever did in all of my years in the pews. I learned mostly that there is a huge world full of used-to-be Believers who desperately want to know God again, but they’ve been turned off by the pride and self-preservation of a church system that places more importance on its image than it does its true mission to be lovers of the unloved. I talk about this in my appearances.


I do look for and reach out to those who are there with needs, but I have other opportunities to minister to them. I focus much of my time in front of church congregations on exposing Christ as the real lover and forgiver that he is, and challenging them to follow his example wherever it may lead them.



Sgmradio: Does your involvement in (state) politics help or hinder your music ministry? What affect does it have?


Kenny: I work for the Governor in Kentucky. I’ve been a part of his staff since he was a U.S. Congressman. I simply love my work and the people I am able to be around everyday. Governor Fletcher and the First Lady are very supportive of my ministry work. He was pastor of a church in Lexington, Kentucky for a number of years, so he has a heart for helping others. I’m often called on to sing at official events. We host a performance series at the Governor’s Mansion as well, and the most well received and acclaimed event we’ve hosted was a Sunday night Gospel singing that featured Jeff and Sheri Easter, Triumphant Quartet, my brother Mark and the Bishops. We’re planning to do another soon.


Sgmradio: What other types of activities are you currently involved in, apart from your political interests and involvement?


Kenny: I love my church. I am not involved in leadership there, but I do offer input, worship and simply take in the Word. I also do as much volunteer work as I can. There are a lot of hungry people who need to be fed and children who simply need a heart to love them. The most abundant joys of my life are my children Casie and Christian.



Sgmradio: What do you see as your involvement in Southern Gospel Music? Are you interested in again being one of the ‘movers and shakers’ in SGM?


Kenny: To be a part of some of the major decisions and planning that took place during my involvement in the industry was a treat for me. However, now I simply want to share the things I’ve come to know and feel so deeply. My name doesn’t do much in the industry today. My record company and the others who’ve invested in me deserve a good return on their commitment. I want them to be profitable and feel the risk they took in me was worth it. They are a great tool that the Lord has brought into my life to give me opportunities to share Grace. That’s my motivation to be a part of Gospel Music.



Sgmradio: What is the one thing that excites you the most about being back in front of a crowd, singing about Jesus?


Kenny: Singing about Jesus.



Written by Lorraine Walker. First published February 2006 on http://www.sgmradio.com
Read current artist features on http://www.sgmradio.com
For up to date information on artist Kenny Bishop click on http://www.kennybishop.com/index.htm

The Cupps Announce New Arrival

(Williamsburg KY) Troy and Barbara Cupp of the Southern Gospel group "The Cupps," is proud to announce the arrival of their new granddaughter Baylee Faith Watson, born on June 21, 2011 at the Magnolia Hospital in Corinth MS. She weighs 6.1 lbs and measured 19 inches long. Baylee is the daughter of Mathew and Charity Cupp Watson. The Cupps are very excited about the new addition to their family, and will be posting pictures of their new granddaughter on Barbara's facebook.

You can visit The Cupps on-line at www.thecupps.org or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thecuppsmusic