NQC ATTRACTS GLOBAL AUDIENCE - 59th Annual Event Enjoys Expanded International Audience

October 9, 2015 – A global audience enjoyed the 2015 edition of the NQC (National Quartet Convention) held last week in Pigeon Forge, TN. The 59th annual event - held at the LeConte Center - attracted attendees and webcast viewers from over 30 countries. In addition to the United States, the NQC was enjoyed by gospel music lovers in Canada, United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Chile, Netherlands, Australia, Norway, Taiwan, Argentina, Mexico, Peru, Nicaragua, and many more!

The 59th annual NQC (National Quartet Convention) concluded on Saturday night, October 3, 2015. The 2015 edition of the popular event included over 100 hours of gospel music, speakers and more spread out over the course of seven days in beautiful Pigeon Forge, TN.

A veritable who's who in gospel music performed during this year's event as artists performed for approximately 40,000 throughout the week. Attendees enjoyed The Hoppers, Kingdom Heirs, Greater Vision, Mark Trammell Quartet, Jim Brady Trio, The Nelons, Jason Crabb, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, the Collingsworth Family, Jeff & Sheri Easter, and many, many more during the morning chapel services, afternoon showcase spectaculars and evening concerts.

Additionally, the convention featured comedy - Tim Lovelace, Aaron Wilburn and Dennis Swanberg, and speakers - Todd Starnes from Fox News and Dr. David Jeremiah.

The 60th Annual NQC will be held September 25, 2016 - October 1, 2016 at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge, TN.

ABOUT NQC
The NQC was founded in 1957 by gospel music legend and former backup vocalist for Elvis Presley, J.D. Sumner who co-produced the event with James Blackwood. The annual convention was moved in later years to Nashville, TN and then to Louisville, KY where it was held for 20 years.

The LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge, TN - a $45 million special events facility - serves as the host for gospel music's largest annual event.

Featured artists are a "Who’s Who” of gospel music, and nightly concerts feature up to 20 acts. Among them are the Booth Brothers, Greater Vision, the Hoppers, the Kingdom Heirs, Triumphant and the Collingsworth Family, as well as prominent soloists such as Grammy Award winner Jason Crabb.

47th Annual Brumley Gospel Sing August 5-6-7-8, 2015 Lebanon, Missouri

Grandaddy of Gospel Sings’ Celebrates 10 years in Missouri

Celebrating 10 years in Lebanon, MO. THE BRUMLEY GOSPEL SING,which honors famed songwriter the late Albert E. Brumley, will take place August 5-6-7-8, 2015 at the Cowan Civic Center in Lebanon,Missouri. Recognized as “The Largest Summer Sing in America” this event will draw people from more than 45 states, Canada and Europe, highlighting the top names in Southern Gospel Music.

This year’s Brumley Gospel Sing will feature over 30 professional artists including Brumley Sing favorites: The Booth Brothers, Jeff & Sheri Easter, The McKameys, The Chuck Wagon Gang, Karen Peck & New River, and Triumphant Quartet. New to the Brumley Sing are The Jim Brady Trio, Allison Speer, Gordon Mote, and The Nelons. And returning for the first time in over 20 years: The Hoppers. The Brumley Sing also welcomes Singing News Editor Danny Jones as Emcee.

Albert E. Brumley, a long time Missouri resident, wrote over 800 Gospel and Sentimental songs including favorites such as, “I’ll Fly Away”, “I’ll Meet You In The Morning”, “Turn Your Radio On”, and “If We Never Meet Again”. Brumley’s songs have been recorded and performed by artists in virtually every music genre’ including Elvis Presley, Carrie Underwood, The Boston Pops Orchestra, Keith Urban, Chet Atkins and Alison Krauss. Brumley’s songs have also been included in major motion pictures such as “O’ Brother Where Art Thou?”, “The Apostle”, and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button”, starring Springfield, Mo native Brad Pitt and been included on 10 Grammy winning albums.

Tickets go on sale 9:00 am CST on Friday Jan 2. 2015
Call 1-800-435-3725 to reserve your ticket.

Tribute Quartet Unveils Daywind Debut

HENDERSONVILLE, TN (Aug. 26, 2014) – The debut project by the Tribute Quartet as a Daywind recording artist is being released today, “Journey of Hope.”
 
Tribute is a male quartet comprised of group manager and lead singer Gary Casto, baritone singer and pianist Josh Singletary, tenor singer Riley Harrison Clark and bass singer Anthony Davis.
 
“Journey of Hope” was molded by the group’s long-time producer, Roger Talley.
           
“Journey of Hope" is a collection of songs that resound the constant truth of the hope we have when concluding our journey of life,” says Tribute manager and lead singer Gary Casto. “We are very thankful to Daywind Records and our producer, Roger Talley, for shaping this recording into the theme we so unashamedly sing about.”
 
 “Journey of Hope” is an 11-song project that includes an award-winning cast of songwriters such as Kenna West, Lee Black, Michael Farren, Marcia Henry, Sue C. Smith, Kyla Rowland, Mary Funderburk, Caleb Collins, Dianne Wilkinson, Rebecca J. Peck, Terry Franklin, Barbara Franklin, Ricky Free and Tony Wood.
 
The group – which joined the Daywind family earlier this year – has produced top-charting hits such as “Homecoming Day,” “Homesick Angel” and “Good News From Jerusalem,” a No. 1 song.
 
 “Tribute has been on a steady rise toward the top of the Southern Gospel Music industry since its inception, and this recording will propel the group’s climb,’” explains Daywind president Ed Leonard. “With hit after hit already under its belt, we believe that the group has more chart-toppers to come on ‘Journey of Hope.’ Tribute Quartet delivers these songs with a sincerity and an energy that allows the wonderful messages in these great songs to come alive. We can’t wait to hear the reactions from the fans to what we believe is the group’s best effort yet.”
 
Daywind Records is home to an award-winning roster of artists, including The Browders, The Nelons, Greater Vision, Legacy Five, The Bowling Family, Joseph Habedank, The Hoskins Family and Wilburn & Wilburn. Daywind is distributed to retail through New Day Christian Distributors, Select-O-Hits, and all major digital outlets, including iTunes. For more information, visit www.daywindrecords.com  or contact Amanda Martin at publicity@daywind.com.
 
For more information on the group, visit Tribute Quartet’s web site atwww.tributequartet.com.

Amber Nelon Thompson Receives Favorite Female Singer Award From AGM

Atlanta, GA (May 21,2014) Phenomenal young talent Amber Nelon Thompson of the Nelons has won her first award and it is a big one. On April 15th at the Absolutely Gospel Music Awards held in Smyrna, TN, Amber won the coveted Favorite Female Singer Award.

Born into a singing family, it seemed Amber's fate to join her family group, but her success was not guaranteed. Through hard work and a great dream she has lived up to the Nelon name of giving the genre great singers. At the Award Celebration Amber brought the crowd to their feet with her feature on the Nelons rendition of “More Than Wonderful”.

Deon Unthank, President of AGM said “I believe the screams when Amber won this award were the loudest of the evening. The crowd certainly approved of her choice as Favorite Female Singer. This was the first award that has ever acknowledged her talent and I believe there will be many more to follow.”

Amber was clearly moved by her accomplishment and dedicated the award to her late Grandfather, Rex Nelon, the gifted Bass singer for whom the group was named. At this point both Amber and her Mother, Kelly Nelon Clark who was co-hosting for the evening, were both shedding tears and the crowd bursting in thunderous applause.

Amy Unthank, VP of AGM stated “With so many people talking about the demographic of Southern Gospel Music it is wonderful to see young people like Amber being recognized for their talent and the fans accepting them as the great artist they are. Amber is truly one of those artists. Congratulations to Amber.”

Amber is in the process of recording a brand new solo project with Daywind Records, so be watching for it.

You can learn more about Amber and the Nelons at http://kellynelon.com or https://www.facebook.com/amber.n.thompson

The Nelons are book through the Beckie Simmons Agency at www.bsaworld.com .

Amber and the Nelons record with Daywind Records

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About The Nelons
For (original group member) Kelly Nelon Clark, singing alongside her husband (song-writer and group arranger) Jason Clark, and daughter (vocal power-house), Amber Nelon Thompson this is a full-circle moment as she reflects on the countless nights she shared the stage with her Hall of Fame Father, Rex Nelon. Today, the Nelons’ take all the elements you’ve come to expect from the group—unparalleled vocal excellence, a sound built on the interplay between a soaring soprano and Kelly’s emotional smooth alto with an intertwining tenor, and add impeccable tight family harmony with an uncanny gift of communicating God’s love and you have a worship experience that you’ll not soon
forget!

CNS Entertainment Announces Plans For Christmas In The Smokies Music Spectacular

Atlanta, GA - Christian music concert promoter, CNS Entertainment has announced plans to host the first ever Christmas In The Smokies Music Spectacular. This exciting holiday event will take place in the beautiful Smoky Mountains at the Music Road Hotel in Pigeon Forge, TN.

This Christmas Spectacular will take place on Tuesday, December 3 and will feature a 10am morning session, as well as a 7pm evening concert. Popular trio, The Nelons and the talented LeFevre Quartet will be featured during the morning session, along with some very special guest performers. Both groups will also appear at the evening session. Joining them for the evening session will be popular singer/comedian Mark Lowry and talented pianist, Stan Whitmire.

For three decades, The Nelons have been bridging the traditional sounds of Southern Gospel with contemporary influences that inspire listeners of all ages. The musical ministry of The Nelons was born in the late 1970s from a name that has been synonomous with Gospel Music for nearly a century. In the 1920s, the original LeFevre Trio began traveling and singing. In the late 1950s, Rex Nelon joined the group and for the next 40 years, the Nelon/LeFevre combination proved to be a winning one. At the Christmas In The Smokies, the rich Nelon/LeFevre combination will be recreated as second and third generation Nelon, unite with second and third generation LeFevre to create a Christmas music spectacular that is sure to warm hearts and bring Christmas cheer.

Mark Lowry is known and loved around the world as a trusted voice in the realm of Gospel music and beyond. His legacy is forever sealed as an innately entertaining communicator who can, at once, make audiences laugh, cry and think. Mark is a singer, storyteller, humorist, author and songwriter, whose lyric to “Mary Did You Know?” resulted in one of the most loved modern Christmas songs of this century. This captivating song, which he co-wrote with Buddy Greene, has been recorded more than 400 times by artists from every genre. Mark has spent more than 20 collective years with the Grammy-award-winning Gaither Vocal Band and serves as the sidesplitting comedic sidekick for Bill Gaither through live concert tours and the best-selling Gaither Homecoming video series and television airings (now more than 150 volumes strong). A deep thinker and student of theology with an outrageous sense of humor, Mark’s life work includes a long list of recordings and DVDs reflecting a wide range of influences. Mark’s on-stage antics and music will, no doubt, delight all those attending the Christmas In The Smokies.

“We are so excited about the Christmas In The Smokies,” states Kelly Nelon Clark of the Nelons, host of the event. “Christmas is my favorite time of the year, and I am really looking forward to kicking off the season in the beautiful Smoky Mountains at this wonderful event. We love Mike LeFevre and the LeFevre Quartet, as well as Mark Lowry and Stan Whitmire. They are all like family to us, and we can’t wait to have the opportunity to be on stage with them. We’ll do quite a bit of laughing, maybe a little crying and definitely a lot of singing. It is going to be so much fun and we hope all our friends will join us for this special time, as we will make lots of new Christmas memories at the Christmas In The Smokies.”

This event will be one the entire family will enjoy, and will provide a wonderful way to kick off the festive, Christmas holiday season. Make plans now to join The Nelons, The Lefevre Quartet, Mark Lowry and Stan Whitmire at the Music Road Hotel in Pigeon Forge, TN, on December 3 as the Christmas In The Smokies comes to the beautiful Smoky Mountains. A complete schedule, including ticket pricing is available online at www.cnsentertainmentgroup.com. Tickets may also be purchased by calling 888-887-2009.

3rd Annual "Good News Music Radio with Woody Wright" Concert at the Reardon Auditorium in Anderson, Indiana

Join us on Saturday, November 9, 2013 for an evening of great gospel music, ministry and fun!
Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 9, 2013 at 6:00 PM and join us for the 3rd Annual "Good News Music Radio with Woody Wright" Concert at the Reardon Auditorium in Anderson, Indiana!

Joining Woody on stage will be Grammy Award winning artist, Larry Gatlin, Grammy Award winning vocalist, Russ Taff, super group, The Nelons, multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, Buddy Greene, dynamic vocalists, Reggie & Ladye Love Smith, a reunion of super trio, Ponder, Sykes & Wright, longtime Goodman's member and Homecoming Artist, Tanya Goodman Sykes, founding Oak Ridge Boy member, Willie Wynn, Woody's wife and duet partner, Vonnie Wright, super soprano, Rachel West Kramer, Jairo Arvizu, Maria Kramer and a live Good News Music Radio Band!!!

Since September of 2010, "Good News Music Radio with Woody Wright" has been added by radio stations around the world! Each program features the very best in today's gospel music and interviews with some of today's top artists! In 2013, our first DVD was released of the 2nd Annual GNMR concert entitled, "Rise Up, Rejoice!" and is now being aired on television stations around the country! This upcoming concert will be videotaped as well and released as a DVD in 2014!

Admission is only $10 at the door - no tickets required and all seating is general admission!!!

Please consider joining us for this evening of music, inspiration and fun! We hope to see you on Saturday, November 9th!!! God Bless!





Concert Information:
http://goodnewsmusicradio.com/?page_id=285_id=167

Good News Music Radio Website
http://goodnewsmusicradio.com/

Good News Music Radio on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Good-News-Music-Radio-with-Woody-Wright/133859493325244

Dates and Featured Performers Announced For 14th Annual Absolutely Gospel Music Fest

Southern Gospel’s Biggest Names like Adam Crabb, Tribute Quartet, The Nelons, Lynda Randle, The LeFevre Quartet and More to Appear

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (June 23, 2011) The administrators of AbsolutelyGospel.com , are proud to announce the dates and talent line-up for the 14th Annual Absolutely Gospel Music Fest.

This year’s Music Fest is set to run from Monday, July 15, 2013 through Friday, July 19, 2013. The event will again be held at the River of Life Church in Smyrna, Tennessee and is absolutely free to the public. Concerts start nightly at 7PM CST and the doors open to the public one hour before.
Performers scheduled to appear at this year’s Music Fest include Lynda Randle, Gene McDonald ,Three Bridges, The Nelons, The Browders, Tim Lovelace, The Lefevre Quartet, Golden State Quartet, The Hemphills, Lori Jonathan Trio, Jim Sheldon, The Dubbelds, Beyond The Ashes, Adam Crabb, Dixie Melody Boys, Tribute Quartet, Johns Call, Southern Sound, Back Home, The Beelers, Jeff and Sue Duffield and Sunday Edition.

The artist listing is subject to change without notice.
As in years past, this year's convention will remain free to the public. A love offering will be taken each night.
For more information, feel free to email the site at deon@absolutelyGospel.com . More details can be found at http://www.absolutelygospel.com . 615-545-5315

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About AbsolutelyGospel.com
AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) has grown from relative obscurity to the industry's leading internet publication for Southern Gospel news and information in only a few short years. The site includes a wide variety of features, consisting of artist interviews, a weekly chart, late-breaking news, and much more.

THE NELONS HONORED WITH 2013 PEOPLE'S CHOICE SILVER TELLY AWARD

Video for "Excuse Me, Are You Jesus?" Written by Bill & Gloria Gaither and Larry Gatlin Honored for Excellence

The Nelons and Bill Gaither, co-writer of "Excuse Me, Are You Jesus," pose with their Silver Telly Awards, backstage during the Gaither Family Fest held in Gatlinburg, TN during Memorial Day weekend.


May 31, 2013 (Nashville, TN) - The Telly Awards has named The Nelons as a Silver Telly winner in the 34th Annual Telly Awards for the music video for "Excuse Me, Are You Jesus?" With nearly 12,000 entries from all 50 states and 5 continents, the project won the Silver Telly in the Internet/Online Video-Music Video category.

The true-to-life story, put to song by legendary Christian music icons Bill & Gloria Gaither and Country music superstar Larry Gatlin tells the story of a man who makes a startling revelation upon missing his home-bound flight. Point Light Pictures, LLC was brought to the task of making the story come to life.
"Point Light Pictures did an amazing job visually telling the story that Bill & Gloria Gaither and Larry Gatlin so eloquently put to music," stated Kelly Nelon Clark. "This award is an honor and we are grateful to those who voted for the video."

“It is always a joy to work with the Nelons and I’m grateful to be part of their journey, " said Bill Gaither "Co-writing the song ‘Excuse Me, Are You Jesus?’ with my wife, Gloria, and our dear friend Larry Gatlin, then co-producing the Nelons album on which the song was included, was an honor. I would still make music if there were no awards, but it is always a thrill to be a part of something that is recognized by the artistic community in this way.”

"The Nelons are just fantastic and the video is STELLAR," commented Larry Gatlin. "Add to that the honor of being asked to collaborate with two iconic writers like Bill & Gloria Gaither – especially Gloria – well, I am greatly blessed and highly favored! Congrats and thanks for allowing me to be a small part of this!"

The Telly Awards program was founded in 1979 and is the premier award honoring outstanding local, regional, and cable TV commercials and programs, the finest video and film productions, and online commercials, video and films. Winners represent the best work of the most respected advertising agencies, production companies, television stations, cable operators, and corporate video departments in the world.

For it's 34th season, The Telly Awards once again joined forces with YouTube to give the public the power to view and rate videos submitted as part of the People's Telly Awards. In addition to recognition from the Silver Telly Council, the judging panel that selects the Telly Awards winners, the Internet community helps decide the People's Telly Awards winners.

"The Telly Awards has a mission to honor the very best in film and video," said Linda Day, Executive Director of the Telly Awards. "The Nelons' accomplishment illustrates their creativity, skill, and dedication to their craft and serves as a testament to great film and video production."

A prestigious judging panel of over 500 accomplished industry professionals, each a past winner of a Silver Telly and a member of The Silver Telly Council, judged the competition, upholding the historical standard of excellence that Telly represents.

The Nelons have been recognized in the past for their innovative video accomplishments. In 1987, their concept video for "Famine In Their Land," was recognized with a New York Film Festival Bronze Award and won a DOVE award for Short Form Music Video of The Year.


CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE AWARD-WINNING VIDEO

ABOUT THE NELONS:
The Nelons are a second-generation, Gospel Music Group, founded by Hall of Fame vocalist Rex Nelon. Their iconic sound and style has garnered multiple Gospel Music Association DOVE Awards, GRAMMY Nominations, and many other honors. Their discography includes over seventy charting radio songs, many of those Top Ten hits. This family trio continues to be creative and innovative in their sound and production as their music reaches across spectrums and genres of styles, loved by generations of fans.

ABOUT POINT LIGHT PICTURES:
Point Light Pictures, LLC is an award-winning film production company located in Jacksonville, FL, specializing in powerful storytelling to connect audiences. More information on Point Light Pictures, LLC can be found online at www.pointlightpictures.com.

Connect with the Nelons and Point Light Pictures via Facebook: The Nelons (CLICK HERE) and Point Light Pictures (CLICK HERE).

Feed My Children Tour 2013 with Special Guests Back Home

Jasper, TN (February 25, 2013) Award Nominated group Back Home has been selected to be the host group for the "Feed My Children Tour 2013". They will be touring across the country bringing in new Artists along the way including, Back Home, The Nelons, 11th Hour, The Kevin Jones Family, and many more being added.
Back Home manager and singer Jimmy Layne said, “We are thrilled to announce that our artists for the Feed My Children Tour beginning in the month of March will be The Nelons and The Kevin Jones Family. The first concert is set for Friday, March 15th at the Immanuel Baptist Church, in North Augusta, SC, 7:00 pm est and, Saturday, March 16th at the Stevenson Auditorium in Orangeburg, SC at 6:00 pm est.
Our goal with the Feed My Children Tour is to:
Help feed the hungry.
Bring great music for everyone to enjoy.
Give the opportunity for everyone to help others less fortunate than themselves.
Bring communities together to help organizations that have food pantries and stock their shelves so they are able to help more people than ever.
The tour will go to different cities and towns across the country reaching wherever there is a need to call attention to hunger awareness.
Various food pantries and shelters are feeding more people than ever before. These organizations are trying to stretch every pound of food and donations they receive to help as many people as possible. Through this tour, the opportunity will be given to everyone to help restock food shelves and help those who are less fortunate.
Jennifer Layne, wife of Jimmy and singer for Back Home stated, “As we bring good music for you to enjoy, we ask that you bring canned and dry goods to fill the bins as you enter in. All that you are able to bring will be donated to organizations within your own community to help others.”
To host or be considered as an artist for the tour in your city please contact, Sophia Davis @ Adoration Agency, 615-590-7453 or Sophia@adorationagency.com

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

The Nelons "Excuse Me, Are You Jesus?" Concept Music Video Nominated for People's Choice Telly Award

Nashville, TN (February 11, 2013) – The Nelons' concept music video of the song "Excuse Me, Are You Jesus?" has been nominated for the 34th Annual People's Choice Telly Awards, it was announced last week in New York, NY. The true-to-life story, put to song by legendary Christian music icons Bill & Gloria Gaither and Country music superstar Larry Gatlin tells the story of a man who makes a startling connection upon missing his home-bound flight. Point Light Pictures, LLC was brought to the task of making the story come to life. While the music video has been displayed at numerous events - live concerts, Gaither Homecoming Tour before thousands in attendance, Pastor David Jeremiah's "Turning Point" rally at Phillips Arena, and many churches - it has not been viewable on-line, until now. Until March 1, 2013, "Excuse Me, Are You Jesus?" has been unlocked as a selection of the 34th Annual Telly Awards People's Choice Awards on YouTube.
 
To view the video and vote, follow this direct link to the video – http://www.youtube.com/tellyawards?x=HzUNKrpSeoo (computer only, no mobile device) – and click the "thumbs up" at the bottom of the video.

VOTE HERE »» http://www.youtube.com/tellyawards?x=HzUNKrpSeoo

"We're excited about this opportunity for the Nelons' work to be promoted and recognized," states Don Schaffer, owner of Point Light Pictures, LLC. Kelly Nelon comments: "This song means so much to our family and the reaction we've seen from friends around the country has been exciting. We invite our friends to share this video with everyone they know and, of course, vote!" Bill Gaither states, "As a co-producer of this album and co-writer of this song I am thrilled to see it nominated for such a prestigious award as the People's Choice Telly Award. It's been a wonderful journey partnering with the Nelons on this recording."

For its 34th season, The Telly Awards once again joined forces with YouTube to give the public the power to view and rate videos submitted as part of the People’s Telly Awards. In addition to recognition from the Silver Telly Council, the judging panel that selects the Telly Awards winners, the Internet community helps decide the People’s Telly Awards winners. Online voting for the Peoples Choice Telly Awards is open until March 1, 2013. Only one entry per computer / IP address is allowed per day.

“The Telly Awards has a mission to honor the very best in film and video,” said Linda Day, Executive Director of the Telly Awards. “The Nelons' accomplishment illustrates their creativity, skill, and dedication to their craft and serves as a testament to great film and video production.”
This is not the first time The Nelons have been recognized for an innovative video. In 1987, their concept video for "Famine In Their Land," was recognized with a New York Film Festival Bronze Award and won a DOVE award for Short Form Music Video of The Year.

ABOUT THE NELONS: The Nelons are a second-generation, Gospel Music Group, founded by Hall of Fame vocalist Rex Nelon. Their iconic sound and style has garnered multiple Gospel Music Association DOVE Awards, GRAMMY Nominations, and many other honors. Their discography includes over seventy charting radio songs, many of those Top Ten hits. This family trio continues to be creative and innovative in their sound and production as their music reaches across spectrums and genres of styles, loved by generations of fans.

ABOUT POINT LIGHT PICTURES: Point Light Pictures, LLC is an award-winning film production company located in Jacksonville, FL, specializing in powerful storytelling to connect audiences. More information on Point Light Pictures, LLC can be found online at www.pointlightpictures.com.

Connect with the Nelons and Point Light Pictures via Facebook: The Nelons and Point Light Pictures.

SGNScoops February Issues Hosts The Nelons On Cover

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Special thanks to Sherri Whitt for sharing a concert experience.

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

Trinity Broadcasting Network Hosts SGMG Harmony Honors January 29th at Trinity Music City in Nashville, TN.

All-Star Lineup Features Jason Crabb, Wynonna Judd, Greater Vision, Kingdom Heirs, Nelons, Booth Brothers and More!

NASHVILLE (January 25, 2013) — Some of the top names in Gospel Music will take the stage January 29 in Nashville at Trinity Broadcasting Network's Trinity Music City, as Grammy Award-winning Christian music artist Jason Crabb hosts a special live TBN taping of the 2013 SGMG Harmony Honors.

Sponsored by the Southern Gospel Music Guild (SGMG), the annual SGMG Harmony Honors celebrates the best and brightest singers, songwriters, quartets, and groups in this unique American musical genre that has comforted, inspired, and entertained generations of fans.

This year the Harmony Honors recognize gospel songwriters Mosie Lister, Squire Parsons, Ronny Hinson, Rodney Griffin, Phil Cross, and Dianne Wilkinson. SGMG president Judy Nelon noted that many of the songs penned by these writers are now considered classics, and have been recorded and performed by scores of artists in gospel, country, and other genres of music. “It is a privilege to be able to honor this elite group of gospel music's legacy songwriters,” she said. “Their work continues to inspire individuals of all ages and backgrounds.”

This special edition of TBN's signature “Praise the Lord” show will feature performances from a number of popular artists, including the Booth Brothers, the Bowling Family, Gold City, Greater Vision, Jeff & Sheri Easter, the Kingdom Heirs, LeFevre Quartet, the Nelons, Three Bridges, Tribute Quartet and Palmetto State Quartet featuring Grammy Award-winning country music great Wynonna Judd.

"I am honored to host the 2013 SGMG Harmony Honors and to be a part in recognizing these amazing songwriters,” said Jason Crabb, a regular TBN “Praise the Lord” host. “I cut my teeth on their songs, and their work has been a big part of my own musical heritage.”

TBN Vice President Matthew Crouch noted that Gospel Music has been a regular part of TBN's history over the past 40 years. “We've welcomed many Gospel greats over the years,” he said. “The rich harmonies and inspirational message of this sacred music have been a blessing to generations of TBN viewers. We're honored once again to host the SGMG Harmony Honors.”

Admission to the January 29th live TBN taping of the Harmony Honors at Nashville's Trinity Music City is free to the public, with 1,500 seats available. Doors open at 6 p.m. (Central Time) and the program begins at 7 p.m.

For more information and directions visit www.trinitymusiccity.com.

The Stephens Release New CD

The Stephens are a dynamic southern gospel trio from Alabama and are very excited about releasing a brand new, long awaited recording. The new cd entitled “Greater Is The Grace” was arranged and produced by Jason Clark of The Nelons. Jason wrote the title cut for the project as well. Most of the songs are hymns that everyone will recognize and can sing along with. There is also a bluegrass gospel song in the mix as well.

Many will remember Melody Stephens as a former soprano with the Nelons and from the ever popular Bill Gaither Homecoming video series. Melody is also a two time Dove Award nominee. Melody has always wanted to share the gospel through song since she was a young girl. Melody states, “I remember swinging on our porch swing as a child with earphones in and singing to the top of my lungs. It’s all I’ve ever wanted to do. Now the Lord has blessed me to be able to sing with my husband, Thom, and my sister Bethany Brewer.” Melody’s sister sings the alto while her husband sings the male part of the trio. The Stephens are assisted on stage during live performances by Larry Johnson on keyboard.

The cd can be ordered by visiting The Stephens’ website at www.thestephensmusic.com.

All will enjoy the tight, family harmony along with quality production and arranging on this new project from The Stephens. There is something on this project for everyone to enjoy.

Dates and Featured Performers Announced For 12th Annual Absolutely Gospel Music Fest

Southern Gospel’s Biggest Names like Jason Crabb, Dixie Melody Boys, Tribute Quartet, The Nelons, Marty Raybon, The LeFevre Quartet and More to Appear!
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – (June 23, 2011) – The administrators of AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com), are proud to announce the dates and talent line-up for the 12th Annual Absolutely Gospel Music Fest.
“This has been a tough year for our family after losing my wife Susan earlier this year,” mentioned Deon Unthank of AbsolutelyGospel.com. “However, she wouldn’t want us to stop doing the work she started, so we are happy to continue on the work that she started so many years ago!”
This year’s Music Fest is set to run from Tuesday, July 19, 2011 through Thursday, July 21, 2011. The event will again be held at the River of Life Church in Smyrna, Tennessee and is absolutely free to the public.
Performers scheduled to appear at this year’s Music Fest include Jason Crabb,Dixie Melody Boys, Tribute Quartet, The Nelons, Adam Crabb, Marty Raybon,Naomi & the Segos, HisSong, LeFevre Quartet, Crystal River, John’s Call, The Galloways, Eighth Day, Southern Sound, Brothers Forever, Rod Burton, Back Home, The Beelers, Lieper’s Fork, and Sunday Edition.
The artist listing is subject to change without notice.
As in years past, this year's convention will remain free to the public. A love offering will be taken each night.
For more information, feel free to email the site at chris@absolutelyGospel.com . More details can be found at http://www.absolutelygospel.com .

About AbsolutelyGospel.com
AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) has grown from relative obscurity to the industry's leading internet publication for Southern Gospel news and information in only a few short years. The site includes a wide variety of features, consisting of artist interviews, a weekly chart, late-breaking news, and much more.

THE NELONS AND BECKIE SIMMONS AGENCY ANNOUNCE BOOKING AGREEMENT

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – February 15, 2011 – The Beckie Simmons Agency announces the signing of The Nelons to an exclusive booking agreement.
Beckie Simmons says, "The rich gospel music heritage The Nelons represent is an excellent addition to our roster of quality artists. We are thrilled to be working with Jason, Kelly and Amber."
Kelly Nelon says "I've always admired Beckie's leadership in gospel music and we are excited to work with BSA. The musical heritage of my father, Rex Nelon, continues to impact the music industry today and we are so honored to add the third generation of Nelons with daughters Amber and Autumn."
Beckie Simmons Agency will assume the responsibility of managing an already heavy touring schedule for The Nelons consisting of more than 150 concerts each year.

About The Nelons
The Nelons carry on a family tradition of gospel music spanning over three decades began by Rex Nelon. The Nelons have garnered three GRAMMY® nominations, six GMA Dove Awards, numerous Singing News Fan Awards, Short Form Music Video of the Year Award and the New York Film Festival Award for their concept video Famine In The Land. They are featured regularly on the Gaither Homecoming Videos and tours in addition to their own heavy schedule of appearances.
For further information, visit www.theNelons.com and www.BSAWorld.com.

Pictured Above: The Nelons: Jason Clark, Kelly Nelon, Amber Thompson with Judy Nelon (The Judy Nelon Group),
Beckie Simmons (Beckie Simmons Agency), and Glen Bates

Beyond The Ashes Considered Heroes By The Nelons Following Life Saving Action During A Concert Fire

Nashville, TN (Nov. 5th, 2010) – Beyond The Ashes and the Nelons were participating in a Gospel concert at the historic Majestic Theatre in Chillicothe, Ohio last evening, November 4, when a fire broke out during the Nelons set. Kelly Nelon Clark, husband Jason Clark and daughter Amber Nelon Thompson credit the quick action of Beyond The Ashes members Anthony Facello, Casey Rivers, Kellan Monroe, Rick Martin, and Rob Estep for saving their lives. Martin and Estep are part of the group’s road crew. Estep was the first to notice the fire. Martin was the first to push the fire exit door and implement the rescue efforts of Beyond The Ashes. Others quickly followed them and the local fire department arrived soon after.

Facello shared, “Watching a 30 foot wall of fire engulf the stage area as our friends, the Nelons, sang was a scary experience to say the least. We didn’t really think about doing anything but getting them and others to safety. I know it was God’s hand that carried all of us out of that fire. We are so grateful.”

Audience members reported that they began noticing some things falling from the ceiling during Beyond The Ashes’ set. Apparently, the fire had begun earlier in the evening and was not discovered until the Nelons set began.

According to The Chillicothe Gazette, a curtain caught fire. The trigger for the blaze was not announced. The Chillicothe Fire Department’s team was able to put it out within an hour. The event received local and national news coverage.

The extent of damage to Beyond The Ashes’ $70,000 in equipment is yet to be determined. It was not insured for this type of incident.

Beyond The Ashes expresses gratitude for your prayers during this time. If you’d like to send a card or support to them, their mailing address is:

Beyond The Ashes
2817 West End Ave.
Ste. 126-153
Nashville, TN 37203

To learn more about their ministry or to schedule Beyond the Ashes for your music event, visit beyondtheashesonline.com. You can also find them at myspace.com/beyondtheashesonline.

The Nelons Honored with 2 SGM FanFair Awards

JACKSONVILLE, Fl. – (May 7, 2010) – Legendary Gospel music group The Nelons were honored with two wins in last night’s SGM FanFair Awards. The awards were handed out at a special awards program as a part of the SGM FanFair. The 6th Annual SGM FanFair is taking place this week at the Smoky Mountain Convention Center in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

The Nelons won their first SGM FanFair Award for Favorite Trio. In addition, beloved vocalist Kelly Nelon Clark was awarded Favorite Female Vocalist during the event.

Kelly said last night at the awards program, “I am absolutely speechless to have won this award. I love singing with my family, and I have to thank them first and foremost. Also, thank you to all the fans who voted for us! We are so honored.”

“Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to sing with The Nelons,” responded Amber Nelon Thompson after winning Favorite Trio. “I am honored to be a part of the group today!”

Kelly Nelon Clark also served as a co-host of the awards program with John Lanier and Margie Tanner. The Nelons were a featured performer at the 6th Annual SGM FanFair. They ministered at the weeklong celebration of Gospel music on Wednesday and Thursday evening.

The Nelons released their highly anticipated recording – Beside Still Waters – this past January. The new release is being touted by many industry insiders as a career highlight for the group. This is the group’s sophomore outing for Vine Records.

The first single from the album, “He Found Me,” made a big stir at Southern Gospel radio – including peaking at #2 on the SoGospelNews.com Top 40 Weekly Chart, as well as breaking the Top 10 on the Christian Voice Magazine Top 100 Southern Gospel Chart (#8) and SouthernGospelTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart.

The group just released their follow-up single, “Settled At the Cross,” which features 2010’s Favorite Female Vocalist Kelly Nelon Clark.

The Nelons are booked exclusively through the Dominion Agency. To find out how you can have The Nelons in your church or at your event – visit the Dominion Agency’s website at http://www.dominionagency.com or call (910) 484-6996.

For more information on The Nelons, visit their website at http://www.thenelons.com .

About The Nelons
The Nelons have had an accomplished musical career and ministry which includes six GMA Dove Awards, three Grammy Awards nominations, several #1 songs (including The Nelons’ trademark song “O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing”), a prestigious New York Film Festival Bronze Award, numerous Singing News Fan Awards, and appearances all around the world in various venues. As a family, Jason, Kelly, and Amber continue to sing with a full heart of praise to the only One worthy, Jesus Christ the Son of God. The group’s current release, Beside Still Waters, features the hit singles “He Found Me” and “Settled at the Cross.”