Tribute to Lari Goss in latest SGN Scoops Digital Magazine for February 2015

It’s February and time to grab your coffee, snuggle up by the fire and read all the great stories in this edition of SGNScoops Magazine. We know we have enough captivating features to keep you reading until you are warm and toasty!

Our cover feature celebrates the life of Lari Goss. If you didn’t know the extent of Goss’ accomplishments, I know that this feature by Jennifer Campbell will enlighten you. If you knew and loved this gentleman, we hope that we have done his life justice.

Some of the other artists and Gospel music notables highlighted this month include Matt Felts and the Lesters, Austin Whisnant, the Revelation Trio, the Hall Sisters, Higher Hope and Les Butler. Our feature writers have done a wonderful job! I hope you will find these great folks on Facebook and show them some love (but not in a creepy way!)

Read all about Jonathan and Jordan Wilburn as well. I had a good interview with Wilburn and Wilburn and talked with them about their music and their family lives. We talked about love and relationships, in honor of Valentine’s Day.

You will also find interesting features from the Brooklyn Tabernacle Church and from Lynn Mills our Event Planner. Dean Adkins highlights Church Quartets. Visiting with us in our Pastors Corner is Ed Smith, with a great article on the purpose of music in the life of a Christian.

The Southern Gospel DJ’s play such a large part in our music, that we are happy to salute a new one every month. Vonda Easley shines the spotlight on ReJeana Leeth, who has a great story that you need to read.

Thanks to all of you who read SGN Scoops and pass it along to others. The best way to let us know you like us is to share this issue with five of your social media friends. You can download the February SGN Scoops Here

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The Lesters Honored By City Of St. Louis

St.Louis’ First Family of Gospel Music, The Lesters, were recently honored by the city of St. Louis, Missouri. The legendary group entered into their 90th continuous year as a group on January 1st and the city of St. Louis has taken notice. Mayor Francis Slay honored the group by declaring January 1, 2015 as “The Lesters Day” in the city of St. Louis and presented Brian Lester, Jon Lester and Matt Felts each with a proclamation. “The Lesters have played a huge role in the cultural history of St. Louis and we congratulate them on this historic occasion.” said Mayor Slay. The Lesters kicked off their 90th Anniversary tour at Arnold First Baptist Church, a St. Louis area mega church where the proclamations were presented. Joining them that night on stage were numerous former members and family members including Ginger Pinchers, Donna Lester Tramel, Dan Pinchers, Jenny Pinchers-Revelle, Shannon Shipley Tramel and many more. For more information, you can go to the official website of the Lesters at The official website of The Lesters

THE LESTER’S ANNOUNCE MATT FELTS AS NEW TENOR

Through their group newsletter, Facebook and through a video shot at Silver Dollar City, the announcement was made today that the Lester’s have hired Matt Felts as their new tenor. ” We are grateful to The Lord for sending Matt our way and we’re looking forward to what God has in store for this ministry as we continue our journey for Him. Matt will be joining the week of September 8th so be watching our tour schedule and come out to a concert to welcome Matt to the Lesters.”

Matt Felts has been a mainstay in Gospel music for a number of years having been a member of the Dixie Melody Boys and other groups. He had this to say about joining the Lesters. ” Growing up in St. Louis, our home was filled with great Gospel music from groups like the Cathedrals and the Happy Goodmans. One group stood out to us above the rest, The Lesters. I’m thrilled to be apart of such a rich legacy of ministry and music. Joining the Lesters is truly like coming home.”
The Lesters will be in the studio soon and will make an appearance on the main stage at the National Quartet Convention next month. You can find out more and see their tour schedule by going to their website at www.thelesters.com

Matt Felts To Leave Dixie Melody Boys

From Matt Felts

For the last four years I’ve had the honor of sharing the stage with Ed O’Neal and the Dixie Melody Boys. I’ve been so blessed to be embraced by their wonderful friends and fans all across the country. This season has seen some great times for the group including the 50th Anniversary Reunion, numerous awards and many great concerts. When I joined I didn’t fully understand what it meant to be a member of the “Ed O’Neal University”. It’s more than just a group. It’s being part of a fraternity that you’re always a part of. As many of you know, I fly from Nashville to North Carolina every week to meet the guys. Like many things the cost of flights have gone up drastically over the last couple years. This coupled with God’s leading in a new path have brought me to announce my departure from the Dixie Melody Boys. I want to thank Ed for an incredible four years. I will never forget the songs, the miles and the many laughs. Some may say I’m graduating but you never truly leave the Dixie Melody Boys. It a family you’re always a part of. There will be an announcement soon about the new doors God has opened but for now I just wanted to thank all of you and Ed.

Matt Felts

Dixie Melody Boys Announce Lead Singer

The Dixie Melody Boys are excited to announce one of Gospel music’s best lead singers, Josh Garner, as their new member. The group began their search over two months ago when Mike Rogers resigned and had them listening to over 400 demos and auditioning numerous men. “This has been different than most of the times I have hired someone to fill a position. We heard so many great singers and we even thought we had found the right man a few times but it just wasn‘t the right fit.” said Ed O’Neal. “I have always loved Josh’s voice. I have even tried to hire him a few times in the past but the timing was never right. I am thrilled to have him join us.” added Ed.
The fans of Gospel music will remember Josh as the last lead singer for the Florida Boys as well as from the Gaither Homecoming Series. For the last five years he has been with Freedom, a trio that he founded with John Rulapaugh. Josh has been nominated numerous times as Favorite Lead Singer and is widely acknowledged as one of Gospel music’s all-time great lead singers. “Josh called me and offered to help us by filling in until we could find someone. It made looking for someone easy knowing he was on stage with us until we found the right person. His first night with us felt as if we had been singing together for years. Over the next few weeks both he and the group knew the right guy for the job was already there. Josh is a great addition to our team. I know the fans will be excited about seeing him with us.” stated Matt Felts.
The Dixie Melody Boys have already been in the studio with Josh and will release the new album soon. The project comes off the success of their fiftieth anniversary album, The Call Is Still The Same, and promises to be a hit. Josh will join the group mid August and will appear with them for the first time at NQC on Tuesday and Wednesday night. To check the Dixie Melody Boys schedule go towww.dixiemelodyboys.com

Dixie Melody Boys Announce Aaron Dishman As New Baritone And Piano Player

The Dixie Melody Boys have announced the addition of Aaron Dishman to the legendary group as their new baritone and piano player. The group announced last month that Steven Cooper would be stepping down due to vocal issues but will stay on as their bass guitar player.

“Aaron had filled with us in a few years ago at piano. We fell in love with his spirit. When this came open, we knew he would be a great fit.” Said Ed O’Neal.

Aaron Dishman is 26 and lives in Mississippi with his wife Erica.

“We are excited to have Aaron join us. When he came to audition and sat down at the piano to sing us a song, you could feel God’s spirit. He will add so much to our concerts and I know the fans will love him. ” stated Matt Felts. Aaron will join the group in time to appear at the Memphis Quartet Show in June.

The Dixie Melody Boys were voted favorite Male Quartet for the second year in a row at last month's Southern Gospel Music Fan Awards. They are currently accepting applications for the lead singer position. They will be back in the studio with Aaron and the soon coming lead singer to finish their sophomore album with Song Garden Music Group.

Dixie Melody Boys Lead Singer Resigns

The Dixie Melody Boys have announced that their lead singer Mike Rogers has resigned. Mike has been with the group for the last ten months. “We wish Mike and his family the best.” said Ed O’Neal. The group will begin looking for a replacement shortly.

“Change can be hard but also exciting. History has proven that every time a singer has left, God has brought us another great addition to the Dixie Melody Boys. We know God has someone coming that will be the right fit for years to come.” added Matt Felts.

The Dixie Melody Boys are taking demos at dixiemelodyboys@yahoo.com.

Dixie Melody Boys Claim Numerous Top Honors At SGM Fan Awards

(Friday May 3, 2013)- SongGarden Music artists, The Dixie Melody Boys solidified their rise back to the top of Southern Gospel at last night's Southern Gospel Fan Awards held in Pigeon Forge, TN. The SGM Fan Awards are presented by the Christian Voice Magazine and honor the best in Southern Gospel music as chosen by the fans. The night was filled with great performances by the Dixie Melody Boys, Palmetto State Quartet, the Hemphills, Phil Cross, the Diplomats and many more.

The Dixie Melody Boys received the most Top 5 Nominations of any group with eleven nominations including Favorite Album, Song and Video. Hall of fame member Ed O'Neal took home the Favorite Bass Singer award for the second year in a row. Steven Cooper won the Favorite Baritone award. "We are so happy for Steven. As many know, he will be stepping down soon so to have the fans honor him and his five years with us this way is wonderful." said Ed O'Neal.

Mike Rogers, who has been with the group just under a year was also honored by being nominated in the Top 5 for Favorite Lead Singer and Young Excelling Artist. Matt Felts won the Favorite Tenor Award having made the Top 5 two years in a row. "Just to be on the list with men like Michael Booth, David Phelps, Brian Free and Jeff Hawes is a huge honor. These men are my heroes. I am so grateful that God has allowed me to sing for him." said Matt Felts. Ending the night on a high note, the Dixie Melody Boys won Favorite Male Quartet for the second year in a row.

The last two years have shown the Dixie Melody Boys are riding high again with no signs of slowing down. To learn more check them out at http://www.dixiemelodyboys.com/

Dixie Melody Boys Announce Coming Changes

"We are sad to announce that Steven Cooper will be stepping down from the baritone position with the Dixie Melody Boys. As some know, he has been experiencing vocal issues for the last several years. He has been to numerous vocal specialists and they have advised him to go on an extended vocal rest. Steven recently celebrated his fifth anniversary with the group. He has been a valuable asset to us and will continue to be so," said Ed O'Neal. Steven will remain a member of the Dixie Melody Boys. He will help the group off stage and will also begin playing bass guitar for the group in the near future.

"I want to thank everyone for their concern and understanding over the last year. It has been difficult time having to go through this as a singer. I hope that someday my voice will return and I will be able to sing again. I ask that you will keep me in your prayers as I trust God for a healing. I also want to thank Ed, Matt and Mike for their support in this change and for allowing me to remain a member of the group." said Steven Cooper.

The opening has brought an exciting change for the group. "We are currently looking for a new baritone that can also play piano. The Dixie Melody Boys have a rich legacy that included a live band for years. Our lead singer Mike Rogers is one of the best guitar players in Gospel music. With Mike, Steven on bass and the new member on piano, we are excited to add the live band back to our performances. Sometimes through tough situations God can bring new seasons of blessings." said Matt Felts.

The Dixie Melody Boys will be excepting demos for the baritone/ piano position. Interested people can send them to dixiemelodyboys@yahoo.com.

The Dixie Melody Boys Receive 11 Top Ten Nominations In Fan Awards

With the announcement of the 2013 Southern Gospel Music Fan Awards Top Ten nominations yesterday by the Christian Voice Magazine, the Dixie Melody Boys showed that the groups recent rise back to the top of Southern Gospel continues to find new heights. The legendary group received eleven Top Ten nominations, the most the group has ever received in one year.

In 2012, the Dixie Melody Boys received seven nominations and went on to win Favorite Male Quartet and Favorite Bass Singer. The group is again nominated for Favorite Male Quartet.

Hall Of Fame member Ed O'Neal continues to be favorite to fans after fifty years with the group and was nominated again as favorite Bass Singer as well as the Living Legend Award. Tenor Matt Felts appears for the second year in a row in the Favorite Tenor category, solidifying his place as one of Gospel's brightest young talents. The groups baritone, Steven Cooper makes his debut appearance, nominated for Favorite Baritone. Mike Rogers joined the group as their new lead singer earlier in 2012. He has made an instant impact and the fans have embraced him. Mike has been nominated for Favorite Lead Singer and Excelling Young Individual.

The group was also honored by having their recent album receive two nominations, Album Of The Year and Song Of The Year for "The Call Is Still The Same". That is the second song from the historic 50th Anniversary project to receive Song Of The Year honors, Jesus In My Boat was nominated last year. The Dixie Melody released another historic project this year, Dixie Melody Boys Reunion: 50 Years Of Influence. The DVD recorded live at the National Quartet Convention has been nominated as Video Of The Year. Last but not least, the television show "Great American Gospel" hosted by Ed O'Neal and the Dixie Melody Boys was nominated for Favorite Television Show.

"We are honored to be selected by the fans. The lists include so many incredible people that we love and admire so to be included on this list and this is a blessing. We have several big things to announce in the coming weeks and this is a great start to our new year." said Matt Felts.

The voting has started for the next phase in the voting process, fans can go to http://christianvoicemagazine.com/sgmtop10vote.html

The Dixie Melody Boys Announce New Lead Singer

The Dixie Melody Boys announced a few weeks ago that they would be accepting demo’s for the lead singer position. They also stated that the new member of this legendary group would be introduced on the main stage at this year’s convention. Over the course of three weeks the group received over 300 applications.

“It was an overwhelming response. We didn’t expect so many men to apply. It proved to me that there is a lot of talent in Southern Gospel music. As we stated, our plan was to audition several men, take them on the road with us and then announce them in September. Sometimes plans change.“Stated Matt Felts.

“As I was going through demo’s a voice begin to sing and I knew we had found our next lead singer. Ed listened to his demo and agreed. The moment we met Mike Rogers and heard him sing with us we knew God had brought us the right fit.” added Matt.

“Mike started with us the next weekend. The fans have already shown us that we made the right choice. We debuted him at the Absolutely Gospel Fan Fest and Frank Arnolds Songfest in Jackson, TN. After the response he received we knew it wouldn’t take long for word to get out online so we altered our plans and decided to move up our announcement. When God moves, you go with it. Mike is a great talent and we are proud to have him.” said Ed O’Neal.

Mike Rogers comes to the Dixie Melody Boys from Sandersville, GA. He was a member of Kindred Spirit. Mike has a wife named Bekki and they have a beautiful three year old daughter named Coraline. He will be moving to Kinston, NC this week. “It still feels like a dream. I am so excited to be a part of this group. I’m looking forward to all that is in store.” said Mike Rogers.

The fans of Southern Gospel music will have several great chances to hear the Mike as the group will be featured at many of the summer’s largest events including Silver Dollar City, the James D Vaughn Quartet Festival, the Albert E Brumley Sing and the National Quartet Convention.

The Dixie Melody Boys will be in the studio shortly to begin wotk on their Sophomore project with Song Garden Music Group. “We are excited to get back in the studio, this project is shaping up to be special. Jason Crabb and David Staton will be producing it so it’s starting off on the right track.” Said Steven Cooper.

“We want to thank each person that applied. We are honored that so many men wanted to be a part of our ministry. “ said Matt Felts.

To see when the Dixie Melody Boys will be near you or to learn more about them, go to http://www.dixiemelodyboys.com/

Matt Felts Releases Civil War Project, Angels On The Battlefield

Nashville: Popular Southern Gospel artist Matt Felts has released a new project, Angels On The Battlefield, featuring original Civil War hymns. The historic album features songs familiar to the soldiers of both the North and South, each played on period instruments by Nashville best musicians. The album also includes gripping narrations that honor the role faith played during America's greatest conflict. Felts was joined in the studio on select songs by an all-star cast including Johnny Minick, Mike Allen and Aaron Minick. "This project has been years in the making. I wanted this to be as accurate to what you would have heard if you joined soldiers around a campfire." Felts stated.

     Angels On The Battlefield comes out as the Civil War community celebrates the 150th anniversary of the conflict. The project is scheduled to be carried by all National Parks across America as well as museums and historical gift shops. It will also be sold by major retailers both in the Christian market as well as secular business's such as Best Buy and Borders. "From the beginning, my goal has been to present God's love to people that may never come to a Gospel concert or church service. I am overwhelmed the response that we have already received. God is opening huge doors." added Felts. The project was debuted in Gettysburg in March of this year. "I have heard many Civil War projects and this album is by far the best I have ever heard. It is a must have for any Civil War enthusiast or fan of great music." Said George Lomas, Civil War expert.

     Due to the overwhelming repsonse of this album throughout the Civil War community, Felts will be making select appearances at battlefields such as Gettysburg, Fredricksburg and also in Washington, DC.

     To purchase a copy of this highly anticipated album or to learn more, go to www.AngelsOnTheBattlefield.com

Matt Felts Of The Dixie Melody Boys Honored In St. Louis

Matt Felts, tenor for the Dixie Melody Boys was recently honored by his hometown of St. Louis, Missouri. Mayor Francis Slay declared December 27th as "Matt Felts Day" in the city of St. Louis and presented Felts with a proclamation. Matt Felts grew up in St. Louis and began his career in Gospel music there. "We are honored to have Matt Felts as an ambassador for the city of St. Louis. We wanted to honor him and the Dixie Melody Boys for their contributions to the music world." stated Mayor Slay. Felts now lives in Nashville, TN but still considers St. Louis home. "No matter where I have lived, my heart is always in Missouri. I go back several times a year to see friends, catch a Cardinals game or just take in the great city of St. Louis. I am deeply honored and humbled." said Felts. The Dixie Melody Boys are currently celebrating their 50th Anniversary year and are on tour with their hit album, The Call Is Still The Same. For more information, go to www.dixiemelodyboys.com