August 2015 SGNScoops Magazine

sgn

SCOOPS ...........

Magazine

Also Featuring: Whisnants, Gerald Crabb Gospel Fest, Mercy's Bridge & Kingdom Heirs

table of contents 3

Publisher’s Point

6

Letter From The Editor

10

Life, Love, and Legends by Lou Wills Hildreath

13

Canton Junction by Craig Harris

19

Can You Handle It by David Staton

21

The Whisnants By Lynn Mills

24

Creekside Update by Lorraine Walker

28

DJ Spotlight on Tim Livingston by Vonda Easley

31

Mark Bishop by Marcie Gray

37

Wisdom From Wells by Dusty Wells

40

Anchormen by Justin Gilmore

44

Mark Mathes by Paige Givens

48

Puppy Love by Sheri LaFontaine

50

The Williamsons by Vivian Belknap

56

Randall Reviews It by Randall Hamm

60

Gerald Crabb Gospel Fest

64

Reflections with Sherry Anne

67

Kingdom Heirs by Robert York

71

SGN Scoops Top 100

75

We’re All Human by Dr. Jeff Steele

77 Mercy’s Bridge by Jaquita Lindsey

80 Christian Fitness with Laurette Willis 83 Younger Perspective on Kaila Wisecarver by Erin Stevens 87

High Notes with Kelly Nelon Clark

89 Contributors

Our Mission SGNScoops exists to promote the gospel by unveiling what is intriguing and real about Southern Gospel and Christian Country music. With integrity, we aspire to strengthen Christians, highlight people who are fulfilling a call to minister and emphasize the music that inspires audiences and glorifies God. Publisher- Rob Patz Editor- Lorraine Walker Feature Editor- Craig Harris Layout/Design- Pete Schwager, Staci Schwager Cover Design- Stephanie Kelley Founder- Dr. Allen Smith

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Publisher’s Point

by Rob Patz Welcome to the August edition of the Publisher’s Point! I want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of you who have been praying for me. At the end of the month of July, I went in for my fourth surgery in four months. I’m happy to report that God answers prayer! They removed the stints and took three biopsies. The doctor said that I was healing wonderfully and that the three biopsies showed no cancer! God is awesome and I appreciate each and every one of you who prayed.

August is also a special month for our editor as she celebrates her birthday. Please take the time to wish her a happy birthday.

Lorraine has been doing a fantastic job as our editor; she has really helped the magazine to move forward in her time as editor. We want to extend our best wishes on an awesome year.

August will find me in Pigeon Forge again for our Christian Country Expo, which is August 24th through the 27th. We are excited about this inaugural event and look forward to having Marty Raybon and T. Graham Brown there. Please get in contact with me if you are making plans to be there!

I am also excited to be a part of Hope’s Journey’s Homecoming in September. I will be Emcee at the event. Josh and Ashley Franks, and the Browders will be there also. It’s going to be a great evening in Alabama, so please make plans to come and be a part of Hope’s Journey’s Homecoming.

September will mark our sixth year of publishing SGNscoops magazine. I want to thank you for becoming part of my family and reading each month’s magazine!

I am really getting excited about Creekside 2015! This is going to be an amazing year and we want you to be a part of it! November 2nd through the 5th are the dates for this year’s event. There is nothing better than spending the early part of November in the beautiful Smoky Mountains in Pigeon Forge. It is amazing to see the beautiful fall foliage and feel the crispness in the air.

Last but not least I want to thank our new social media team for all their work over the last few months. I appreciate each and every one of you so very much, helping to share the good news of the Gospel through Southern Gospel music and SGN Scoops magazine. Over the next few months, we will be introducing each of them to you in the magazine and I hope you get an opportunity at events to meet them in person. We are blessed with an awesome team.

Looking forward to seeing you all on the road and next month here in the magazine! Be blessed. Contact me at rob@sgnscoops.com.

Midnight Prayer

A Letter From the Editor

By Lorraine Walker

August! This is the time of year when a drive out in the country provides a feast for the senses: farmer’s markets with produce of every color, blue skies filled with birds calling out to each other and the summer sun piercing everything with blades of heat. The scent of freshly mown hay is in the air and the workers are straining to put yet another load in the loft.

Have you noticed how you don’t smell the hay until it is cut? That reminds me of how the scent of a Christian really isn’t noticeable until they go through adversity.

Watch and see how someone handles a really tough time, and only then will you really know where their strength comes from.

Speaking of adversity, there is never a shortage of prayer needed for our large community of artists and others in the Gospel music industry who are going through difficulties. Just recently, prayer was sought for Gerald Crabb who is having health issues. SGN Scoops were guests of Gerald at his Gospel Fest in early July and had a lovely time! You will see the story and pictures within this issue.

Our cover story is Canton Junction, a group that has gone through major changes but is even now sounding better than ever. Read about the new members in this article by Craig Harris and then make sure you get to hear them, either in person or through their latest CD.

Some of the artists you may not know but will meet in this issue include Kaila Wisecarver, Mercy’s Bridge and Mark Mathes. We also feature some of your favorites and ours! The Anchormen, Mark Bishop, the Williamsons and the Whisnants are all gracing our pages this month and we are so happy to welcome them.

We don’t often talk about our monthly columnists but we do hope that when you read them, their words touch your heart. Jeff Steele, Kelly Nelon Clark, Dusty Wells, David Staton, Laurette Willis, Sherry Anne and the legendary Lou Wills Hildreth have all experienced enough good and bad times in life that their thoughts come from a deep well of faith and trust in God. These people know what they are talking about. You can tell they have had their fields mown from time to time, because the scent of their love for Jesus is strong.

SGN Scoops magazine is much more than the names you read on the front, or on the contributor’s page. We are a family of Christians who are trying to share our faith with our world, by supporting those whose music uplifts Jesus. From our websites to our Facebook pages, from the writers to the artists to the social media specialists, our talents are varied but our goal is the same.

We want you to know that when you see our product, you see what the Lord has developed in our hearts. And when adversity strikes us, we hope you will always notice the scent of our love for Jesus.

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Life Love & LEGENDS Blessed by young & Old Friends by lou wills hildreth Bill Gaither sings a song that resonates with so many of us: “Old friends, after all of these years, just old friends; through the laughter and tears, old friends…” and I thank God for blessing my LIFE with both old and young friends.

Recently, Howard and I were guests of Russell Allen and the Dignity Gospel Quartet at the Houston Gospel Song-fest and we LOVED hearing Gospel music sung by dynamic young artists, plus some of our LEGENDARY longtime friends. Emotions were at a high level as Roger, Debra, and Lauren Talley met us backstage. My mind went back to those early years in Nashville when I was hosting a daily TV show and was thrilled to have the Talleys as guests on the program.

They were already well known and loved in Gospel music. The interview with Roger and Debra was easy

and smooth as we talked about our passion for singing about Jesus. Lauren was just a kid, and she was adorable with her comments. She captivated our TV audience! I reminded Lauren of that long-ago event as she, Debra, and Roger left to go onstage for the concert.

Joining the Talleys for the Songfest was the fabulous male group Tribute Quartet. Gary Casto, manager and lead vocalist, is also a dear longtime friend. Josh Singletary, baritone and keyboardist, laughed as we remembered teasing each other about our red hair many years ago. Riley Harrison Clark, tenor, and Anthony Davis, bass vocalist, are two of the finest young artists gracing gospel platforms today. The concert was a lively blend of talents featuring the Talleys and Tribute.

We loved every minute of it, including hearing our host Dignity Gospel Quartet with their new lead vocalist Josh Flynn. Josh is excellent and works well with Russell Allen, Clint Hebert, and Wally Shuttlesworth.

Howard and I thank Russell and the group for treating us to this wonderful concert. A couple from our church, West University Baptist, Paul and Willene Gutenberger, drove us and joined us on the front row. They said it was the best Gospel concert they had attended.

I thank God for my LIFE in gospel music, and the LOVE of our precious LEGENDS of gospel music.

My heart overflows with gratitude for the multitude of young friends who are dedicated to the spreading of the gospel and the privilege of “shining a light for Jesus,” Matthew 5:16. Lou Wills Hildreth gosplvideo@aol.com Photo A. The Talleys--Debra, Roger, Lauren, with Lou Hildreth Photo B. Tribute Quartet–Riley Harrison Clark, Gary Casto, Josh Singletary, Anthony Davis Photo C. Dignity Gospel Quartet- Wally Shuttlesworth, Clint Hebert, Josh Flynn, Russell Allen

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Canton Junction

Changing Faces, Moving Forward

By Craig Harris

New faces put their stamp on a new project as Canton Junction rolls out Every Hallelujah Canton Junction is no longer in the infancy stages of its ministry. However, as the group releases its third project, excitement abounds.

“It’s always kind of been – not overwhelming – but you stand in awe of the way that God makes His plans,” Matt Hagee, the group’s tenor singer, says. “Aaron (Crabb), Michael (Sykes) and I needed to get something done for

Sunday (morning service at San Antonio’s Cornerstone Church in 2011). We went about that. We were able to start working with Tim Duncan, and he’s an incredible talent.

“The group now has a brand-new lineup. It’s a group of diverse singers. I’m very excited for folks to hear Canton Junction on our new project. I feel that this is going to be an opportunity to hear a real Canton Junction brand.”

Duncan and Hagee are the only current group members who were a part of Canton Junction’s earlier projects, a self-titled debut project (which won a Gospel Music Association Dove Award for Southern Gospel Album of the

I’ve ever sung on.”

Hagee admits that the project – which is slated for an August 7th release – has a different sound than the group’s earlier work.

“It’s very different,” Hagee explains. “The first project was really a great deal of stuff. The content we

Year) and Live at Cornerstone.

“We’re a Gospel quartet, but this project is a little different,” Duncan says. “We have a great variety. Garry (Jones, the producer) did a good job of getting material, some great material. He has a list of go-to songwriters, and most of the songs on this project are deep subjects. They get to me. I say, ‘geez, I’ve been there.’ Sometimes, you think, ‘does God ever hear my prayer?’ The lyrics run deep.

“We have a great project. We have a good variety.

We have a Southern Gospel project, quartet songs, fun songs and the deep songs that create a moment. I’m so excited about the type songs we’re doing. I say this about every project I’ve sang on, but I think it’s the best project

picked were songs we had enjoyed all of our lives. It’s stuff we said, ‘oh, it’d be fun to sing this.’ You do indeed have a lot of fun. You sing in a fashion that reflects your memories.

“In this new project, we captured a lot of new content. It’s from current writers who have written new material. You have to figure out, ‘how do I want to communicate this?’ Ryan (Seaton) has a huge voice, and yet, it’s so capable of singing so many different styles. Casey (Rivers) brings a modern Country and Contemporary sound to it. In

one turn, we can be in a Praise-and-Worship vein. Then, the next can be in a Black Gospel style. All of it feels good.”

Jones had a heavy hand in the project’s variety.

Duncan and Jones were part of the Signature Sound Quartet when it formed back in 2002. “It’s great,” Duncan says of working with Jones. “He’s a good arranger and a good producer. That goes without saying. He was with Gold City for 12 or 13 years, and look at all of the great songs they

had.

“He’s just a good guy. He has a good heart. He’s easy to work with in the studio. He gets stuff out of you that you don’t think you can do, and he’s patient with you.”

Rivers and Seaton – who are in their first project as members of Canton Junction – echo Duncan’s feelings.

They officially joined in the group in late January.

“This record, I really think there’s something on here for everyone,” Seaton explains. “There are Worship tunes. There’s your straightforward Southern Gospel.

There’s a little bit of Country. There’s a little bit of Pop. There’s a wide variety of music on this album. For me, that’s what makes it fun. That’s something I’ve never been a part of. The album is going to be killer. It has some great tunes.

“Working with Garry, I’ve never been as comfortable in the studio as I’ve been with this project and working with him. He is able to create and pull some things from people who probably didn’t believe they could do certain things. When his name is on the album, it’s going to be good. It was nice to finally get to work with him in the studio.”

Rivers adds, “Every Hallelujah has a good mix of songs from different backgrounds. Everybody compliments each other in this group. It’s been really cool to see it all unfold. We all have common ground. It’s been a God thing for sure. God has opened a really a great door for all of us.”

Jones actually had a direct hand in Rivers’ door swinging open.

“I received a message via Facebook from Garry Jones,” Rivers remembers. “He said he liked what I was doing, and he liked my voice. We had a good phone conversation a week before Christmas. Then, I went to San Antonio. I talked to Garry, and we played in the studio a little bit.”

Seaton and Duncan were also a part of Ernie Haase and Signature Sound at the same time, and that connection led to Seaton’s arrival.

“Me and Tim have always stayed in contact through the years,” Seaton points out. “I always told him since he started with Canton Junction, ‘man, if there’s ever a position open, let me know.’ He saw the opportunity.

He knew the group was going to be going through some changes, and he kind of helped me get in to get an audition.

“I filled in for Aaron (Crabb, the group’s original lead singer) in November and December. That kind of started the whole process.”

The compilation of vocalists brings diverse sounds.

“Casey, first off, is just a great human being,” Hagee explains. “He’s a husband and a father and very much about his family. He is a humble talent. It’s always a delight to find somebody who is talented and not know how talented they are. Casey is that. Casey has achieved success in Country music as a vocalist. Because of his diverse career, he brings all of those elements to add a lot to a quartet that you might not consider.

“We’re given the opportunity to see what the song requires to be performed at the best level. Because of the diverse range that Ryan has and the style that Casey has, we can sing several different lineups. Ryan can take a lead, and Casey and I can move around on harmonies. Any time you have that kind of diversity, it’s nice, and I’ve always

said that bass singers make anything better, especially good bass singers. In my opinion, there’s not a platform that has a bass singer on it any better than Tim. He has all the depth, but his tone is really quality. I’m really thrilled with how things have come together. Any time you go through change and a transition, you wonder, ‘are we ever going to be able to capture what we had?’ It’s kind of one of those moments where you look back and say, ‘right place, right time … God has His hand in it all.’”

Rivers is the lead singer, and Seaton serves as the baritone. However, that versatility that Hagee refers to essentially nullifies those labels in Rivers’ mind.

“I tell people, ‘Ryan Seaton is a lead singer,’” Rivers – who is the youngest member of the group at age 35 – says. “It’s kind of a cool thing to have in your arsenal.

I’m labeled as a lead singer. He’s labeled as a baritone, but we’re both able to handle the baritone part.”

Duncan adds, “We have a good variety with what we’ve got. (Casey) has a little country flair. He’s a just a great vocalist and a great guy all the way around. He has a good heart. A good heart is just as important as who you are vocally.”

Early reactions have been favorable. In fact, the first single – “Weep No More” – has already been released to radio.

“The response has been overwhelming,” the 35-year-old Seaton points out. “Everybody seems excited.

Everybody likes the sound. Casey can take the lead. I can take a lead. It’s a good place to be when you have a group that can do that.

“The people seem to open up. It’s been neat to see all of the comments. It’s been great.”

Hagee adds, “I don’t know anybody who likes Southern Gospel who didn’t hope that one day they could sing with a great quartet. I jokingly say that Canton Junction is where good things come together. We’ve found something that fits.”

Rivers was previously a part of the trio Beyond the Ashes, from 2009-12. However, prior to that time, he was immersed in Country Music, finishing as the runner-up during season four of Nashville Star.

“I like all kinds of music,” Rivers explains. “I grew

up cutting my teeth on the old country, your Hank (Williams), Sr. Some of that stuff can mesh with Southern Gospel. It was that and Elvis Presley. I was a young guy with an old spirit and a feel for older stuff, but I always knew that I had a heart for ministry. I never wanted to do the beer-drinking songs. I never wanted to sing in the taverns. I stuck to doing a lot of festivals and fairs, a lot of the oprys around Oklahoma and Texas. I always felt that in my set that I could break it down and speak to some people who might not ever step foot in church and minister to them right there. It’s just a matter of being available and listening to God’s voice.

“That voice hit me hard back in 2009. I told my wife one day, ‘if I had a choice to lay Country music down and go full time in Christian music, I’d lay it down right now.’ Then, I had a woman in my church who said, ‘I don’t know if your ears have been burning, but I have a friend who is looking for a lead singer in his group, Beyond the Ashes.’ I had just done my first Country project, but I felt that’s where I needed to be full time. I got into a conversation with a friend at church, and I had an opportunity to meet Anthony Facello (the founder of Beyond the Ashes).

I went through an interview process and a trial period. The rest of history.” Rivers has performed as a soloist since departing Beyond the Ashes.

Despite his country roots, Rivers also possesses a level of soul in his vocalization, which may have been cultivated during his three-year stint with Facello’s dynamic vocal trio. “The soulful part is something that has developed through the years,” Rivers says. “There was never that opportunity to really use that part of my voice. Maybe I didn’t know I had that when I was pursuing Country Music. Even at a young age, it was from Hank Sr. to Elvis Presley. I was shaking my leg as a kid and doing some blue suede shoes.

“A lot of the soulfulness came since 2009 when I joined Beyond the Ashes. I was introduced to some material and some ways of singing to where I really had to push myself. I had to really listen to blend. Being with Beyond the Ashes and through the years getting to hear the Crabb Family … Jason, Aaron and Adam … once I started listening to those songs and listening to some of their tracks, I was like, ‘I like singing these songs.’ They’re in their own league though.”

While the group has quickly cultivated its blend on stage, Rivers points out that it has been a great blend off stage as well. “These guys are awesome,” Rivers emphasizes. “I’m very comfortable around them. We all share common things. Ryan is the only one who will not wear cowboy boots. He’ll tell you that in a heartbeat.

“We’re all family men. When you can be around people where you have things in common with … I could not ask for a better bunch of guys to minister with and share God’s love with.”

The limited tour schedule is another drastic difference for the quartet. “It’s definitely different than anything I’ve ever been involved in,” Seaton points out. “From the musical aspect to the travel aspect … doing this for almost 14 years now and traveling the roads 200 times a year … my girls are nine and eight (years old) now. I’ve been looking for something like this that wasn’t as demanding but still allowed me to do what God has called me to do … but not taking me away from the family every weekend. It’s the biggest blessing to date.

“Everything has been a blessing, from the Melody Boys working with Gerald Williams and Mike Franklin, who ran the Melody Boys. Getting to go with Signature Sound was a huge platform. To get on the Gaither stage and have his (Bill Gaither’s) blessing and stamp of approval, that was a huge blessing. For someone who didn’t go to school for music and never had music lessons, it’s been great. We’re all likeminded and family men. I couldn’t ask for anything better.”

Duncan adds, “I love it. I did have my share of leaving every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. I don’t miss traveling so much. I have a lot of down time.

I have a lot of quality time that I can spend at home. Yet, I get to go out and sing once in a while. I love the down time. I love to be able to fish more and hang out with my son and be with my wife. It’s great.”

The minimal appearances are beneficial as the group members are spread out, with Hagee living in San Antonio. Rivers is a resident of Flint, Texas. Duncan resides in Gallatin, Tenn., and Seaton is the furthest distance away from the group’s home base as he’s planted in Evansville, Ind. The group performs at many of the traveling appearances of pastor John Hagee, who is the father of Matt Hagee and the senior pastor of Cornerstone Church. The quartet also performs there at Cornerstone on a semi-regular basis. Matt Hagee previously sang with his father and sisters as part of the Hagee Family.

Canton Junction performed at Bill Gaither’s Family Fest in the Smokies, which was held in late May. “It is a different dynamic,” Rivers says. “A lot of guys gel because they’re all out on the road. With these guys, it takes a different type of preparation. We might be away from each other for a month or a month and a half. It takes us all going home and doing our homework. When it’s time to show up and do what we have to do, we just have to be ready, so it’s a different dynamic.”

The group members feel that one of the major benefits of the limited touring involves keeping the energy level high and the material fresh.

“I know what it is to be burnt out,” Duncan explains. “You’ve been gone so long, and so many times, you’d rather be home.

“This is great. When we do walk on stage, we’re

fresh, because we’ve been off several days or a couple of weeks.”

Seaton adds, “One of the toughest things about traveling in a full-time scale is keeping it fresh. You live with your guys you travel with. That can get challenging at times. With this, it’s an exciting feeling every time we get together. It may have been two weeks since we’ve seen each other or sang together. There’s not that meeting the bus, putting your stuff on the bus, going to sleep and waking up in a different city. It’s very easy-going. The majority of our dates are done at Cornerstone Church there in San Antonio. The church members all love it. You get to sing to a built-in crowd. It tickles everybody. It’s a fun situation.”

The group has two mini-tours coming up this fall, stints in which the quartet will travel for three consecutive dates on two different weekends (a total of 11 appearances from August into October). Ivan Parker, Jason Crabb and the Isaacs will also be among the performers during some of those dates.

“I’m looking forward to those dates,” Duncan says.

“We’re fresh. I don’t think we will ever reach that point where we will be burnt out. The zeal, desire and morale will always be up, because we don’t travel so much.”

Hagee isn’t ruling out an increased tour schedule in the future. “We have the opportunity to be involved in other areas of media, like television and internet television,” Hagee says. “We want to get our music out.

“We’re going to work those dates (this fall) and see how they go. If opportunities to grow in that area come, we’ll certainly look into it.”

While Matt Hagee serves as the executive pastor at Cornerstone Church, the rest of the group has a varied list of extra-curricular activities.

Duncan – who was formerly a bricklayer before delving full time into Southern Gospel Music – still occasionally does some bricklaying.

Rivers still makes some solo appearances and also occasionally fills in for other groups, but Seaton arguably has the most unique – and most fun – hobby.

“My number one priority is Canton Junction,” Seaton points out. “We provide for our families from Canton Junction, but I actually own HighSide Hobbies and Raceway. It’s an RC (radio-controlled) hobby shop with an indoor, dirt oval track. We race RC cars. We hold weekly races. We’ve had a number of weekly races. We’ve had people from North Dakota, Ohio and Tennessee. Other than going to cheer practice and dance practice (with my daughters), that’s what I do.

“It started out as a hobby, and the opportunity presented for me to take over. I raced as a customer. I became friends with the owner. He was looking to get out of owning the business, so I took that over.”

Look for the new Canton Junction faces and project online.

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“C an Yo u Handle It” What Is God’s Plan For My Life?

By David Staton

This is probably the most-asked question I have heard from people, particularly Christians. We search for it, knowing that once we have found the answer, we have found our purpose for being born. For most of us, the question of finding God’s plan for our life can be rephrased to sound something like, “Okay God, I have my plans for my education, my occupation, the kind of person I want for a spouse and how many kids I am going to have. How do You fit into all of this to give my plans deeper meaning?”

I have to admit that not long ago, the life and career that I had planned came to a screeching halt.

I have been down many streets on this detour. Just when I thought I knew where God was leading, I found myself on a dead end road. Recently, I literally cried

out to God. Frustrated and exhausted, I was asking Him if He would please show me His will for my life. I got the answer quickly. It was not at all what I wanted to hear, but His answers are always what I need to hear.

The first scripture that filled my mind was this: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Galations 2:20 (ESV)) As part of my salvation and commitment to Him, I had to die. Many other scriptures began coming to mind about how I had been bought with a price, and how I am to willingly die daily in order to follow Christ.

As those passages came to me, I realized that God was reminding me that my life was the part of the question

that I was misinterpreting.

I could just imagine Him saying, “Wait just a minute David, you gave Me your life when I found you.

Your life is no longer yours to plan.” That was not what the guy that has always had a plan wanted to hear, so I took my life out of the question. I simply asked God to show me His will and I would follow anywhere He leads.

After what seemed like a long time of getting no answers concerning my life, I have started hearing answers concerning His will. I’ll be honest, there are places where His will takes me that I would have never gone by my own choosing, but I also realize that if I’m not willing to go there, I’m not really following Him.

Whisnant’s Walk of Faith

By Lynn Mills

The walk of faith is a long, winding, consistent road for the Christian. Sometimes we worry, sometimes we struggle to gather courage to tell a friend or co-worker about Jesus and sometimes…we even doubt our own salvation. It takes faith to overcome each concern, and that’s something the Whisnants know all about, so they titled their 2015 release: Walk of Faith.

“It kind of summarizes our whole ministry really,” says Jeff Whisnant. “You don’t stay in ministry as long as we do without having a whole lot of faith.”

Walk of Faith released July 21st and I had an opportunity to sit down with Jeff, Susan and Aaron to talk about the project. They shared their favorite songs, why they picked them and how they spent extra time on the production to make it their best yet. If one thing is certain, The Whisnants believe that these new songs are going to make a great impact on believers and they are excited to get it in the hands of the general public.

When I asked the group how they selected the title Walk of Faith, Susan answered, “Marsha Henry wrote a song called, “It’s a Walk of Faith.” When we were deciding about a title to this project we took a

week of thinking and making notes. We decided on Walk of Faith because it summarizes the whole project. The songs are about not worrying, telling someone about Christ and holding on to grace. The whole CD is about the Christian’s walk of faith.”

“It’s a Walk of Faith,” isn’t the only tune about faith on the project. The Whisnants’ current single, “Worry Ends Where Faith Begins,” follows along the same theme. “It is a simple song,” Susan goes on. “We talk faith, we talk big, but we all tend to worry. We all tend to sit up at night trying to figure out how we are going to fix things. That’s what this song is about.”

Aaron Hise adds, “At some point in your life you’ve worried about something; whether it’s finances, family, health issues. I know I have. It’s definitely a song that will speak to anybody.”

In addition to those faith songs, Susan explains how they believe the whole project will make an impact on the children of God. “This project is very much our heart,” she begins. “It’s going to help people. If you’re worried – we have a song for that. If you doubt your salvation – we have a song for it. I don’t like to sing fluff songs, but songs that are going to help people; this

project has nailed it in every facet.”

One such song Susan sings is called, “Saved Is All You Have To Be.” Susan explains, “You know how

Producing a CD with thought out arrangements and a deep theme takes time. “We spent four months on this project,” Susan shares, “I feel like we worked hard on this project, more than any other one.”

Jeff adds, “It’s a good mix; we have medium, slow, fast songs and ballads. Trey Ivey (of Legacy Five) produced this project and it’s the first main line project he’s worked on. We also worked with Cliff Duren from Brentwood Baptist, who wrote orchestration for eight of our songs.

We have a choir on two songs as well.” Concerning the style, Aaron says, “As a listener, it’s Whisnants. We’ve not changed. It’s not anything new or different; it’s truly Whisnant songs, same message and material.”

somebody knows they need to tell their friend about the Lord but they say, ‘I need my pastor to go talk to them and tell them about Jesus,’ or, ‘I wish somebody would tell my friend about Jesus…’ This song says: saved is all you have to be to go and tell the news. It doesn’t take degrees or grand philosophies to give a testimony.

You may think you’re not the one to share salvation’s plan, but certain words are not the key. God will give you what you need.”

Another song from this project with a strong lyric is “Holding On To Grace.” Susan tells us about the message. “A lot of people believe that they can be good enough: not drink, not cuss, not hang out with folks who do, but keep their marriage intact instead. They think that if they’re good people, that will get them to heaven and it has nothing to do with it. It’s a deep song that may hit a nerve.” Aaron interjects, “I don’t know if it’s a song we’ll sing every night, but if we need it, it’s there.”

Jeff tells us about his favorite song. “It’s a catchy song that has a play on words, it’s called ‘A Grave Mistake.’ The song talks about how those who nailed Jesus to the cross thought they won. Satan thought he won the victory, but when Jesus came out of the grave they realized they made a grave mistake.”

“To me, the combination of good songs and the production we spent on it, I think it’s made for a great record,” says Jeff. “We’re excited about it and we hope the people like it as much as we do.” Susan interjects, “Every song will touch you. It’s very similar to More Than Enough, which has the “Potter’s Hand” and “All Is Well.” If they love that, they’re gonna love this.

It’s straight up and down Whisnants; but to me, it’s a step above anything we’ve ever done.”

Faith encompasses so many different areas of our Christian lives. When it comes to summing it up; the Whisnants took 12 songs and did it in 43 minutes on this new project. After listening to Jeff, Susan and Aaron talk about these songs and how much the lyrics mean to them, I believe this project will have a powerful effect on every life that pauses and listens to the messages therein. Twelve songs, eight orchestrations, and four months of hard work…it’s a walk of faith.

For more information about Walk of Faith, visit the Whisnants website: www.whisnants.com.

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ftw Also visit him online at www.TimLovelace.com

By Lorraine Walker Creekside GMC is getting ever closer and we have a lot of exciting news to share this month, so I will get right to it! First of all, just a reminder that Creekside tickets are free but must be reserved today. Please make your plans to join us in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee on November 2nd through 5th at the Smoky Mountain Convention Center. Check out the Creekside website and Facebook page for more information (links below).

We have already announced that many of our Gospel music friends are returning, as well as some new artists. You know you will enjoy the music of The Freemans, the award-winning family group who are much loved by our Creekside audience. Other wonderful artists on the schedule include Mark209, the Pine Ridge Boys, Jordan’s Bridge, the Hoskins Family, 11th Hour, the Williamsons, the Guardians, Pine Ridge Boys, and many more.

introduced our readers to Weston, Christy and Jordan Hinson back in March of 2014, and their sound is being embraced across the country. With more than a hint of father Kenny Hinson’s unmistakable flavor, plus added touches of Bluegrass and Soul music, the Hinson Family’s music will touch your heart.

One of the newest artists to be added to the Creekside program are the Hinson Family! SGN Scoops

Creekside Gospel Music Convention begins on Monday night with the Lou Hildreth Honors. Each year, Lou salutes a member of the Southern Gospel Music

industry for their contributions to our music and our world. Stay tuned to this column to find out whom Lou will honor for 2015. Don’t miss it!

Also on Monday night, Creekside Gospel Music Convention welcomes the return of one of last year’s

favorite events, Midnight Prayer. Fans and artists will gather together after the concerts before heading to sleep. The services feature prayer, music and fellowship. Everyone so enjoyed these services last year that Creekside is bringing them back in 2015!

Tuesday we begin daily showcases that will fill the halls of the Smoky Mountain Convention Center with music around the clock. We are thrilled to announce that Tuesday and Thursday, Creekside presents concerts with your hosts Vonda Easley and Ava Kasich.

These ladies will be bringing in special guest artists like

Ascension Quartet, Alliance Quartet, Exodus, John Lanier, Malachi, Billy Hodges, and others. Wednesday’s showcase will feature the artists from Chapel Valley with your hosts, the Hyssongs. There are many more surprises to come. Check the website for more information.

We are excited to welcome back WATC Channel 57, Atlanta, Georgia on Monday and Tuesday nights. They will join us to do a live taping of the evening concerts. Be sure you are present to participate in all of the events and then invite your friends to view WATC Channel 57 on the web at watc.tv/onlinestreaming/ at a date and time to be announced.

Tuesday night we will present the 2015 Diamond Awards, hosted by Dr. Jerry Goff and Jan Buckner-Goff, with special appearances by Award nominees.

You won’t want to miss this evening where we honor the best in Gospel music. The Diamond Award nominations are still continuing on the SGN Scoops website, so drop by to click on the link and vote for your favorites in The Diamond Awards Top Five - the final round of nominations. Make sure your voice is heard and vote today!

$176 Per Person (Based On Double Occupancy.) Call Rob at 360-933-0741 to reserve your room today. Don’t miss this time of great Gospel music, fellowship and fun. Artists and attendees, please call Rob Patz for more information at 360-920-4057 or email him at rob@ sgnscoops.com.

Wednesday and Thursday nights we continue with great music and special guests, as well as the Red Back Hymnal Choir. If you like to hang out with your favorite artists, the Exhibit Hall will be filled with artist booths and group members waiting to chat with you.

Keep watching our website and Facebook page for more exciting announcements. Don’t miss four days of great Gospel music, fellowship and fun. Tickets are free and accommodations need to be reserved today.

Please call Rob Patz to talk about reserving your room today.

This year we have VIP Packages, which include lodging, tickets and special events. VIP guests will be invited to a special backstage party as well. Creekside Gospel Music Convention 2015 rates start as low as

Final Notes Creekside Gospel Music Convention would like to hear from you! Tell us what you want to see and hear in November. Creekside also needs your help. If you would like to volunteer through various promotional activities throughout the year, or with onsite tasks during the convention, please email Rob at rob@sgnscoops. com.

Creekside Gospel Music Convention is held at the Smoky Mountain Convention Center www.smokymountainconventioncenter.com.

For more information, latest news and artists scheduled to appear, visit the Creekside website here creeksidegospelmusicconvention.com or our page on Facebook here: www.facebook.com/Creeksidegospelmusicconvention.

Fall Tree Photo Courtesy of Wolfgang Staudt

K O , a s l Tu

Join Ken and Jean Grady and their guests for southern gospel news, concert updates and much more on the internet at www.gospelmusictoday.com

Southern Gospel Television on your computer!

T H G I L T DJ SPO

Tim Livingston

By Vonda Easley

AM Station WGNZ, Good News 1110, is home to Tim Livingston and shares Christian programming over the air to Dayton, Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio, as well as around the world online and through mobile applications. Tim is President and General Manager of Radio Broadcasting and Digital Media Corp, has a solo and pastoral ministry, writes songs and also promotes Gospel music concerts. He has seen his songs chart nationally and has been nominated for – and the winner of - several awards within the Southern Gospel music industry.

Tim took a moment out of his busy day to talk with us about his work in Southern Gospel radio.

Vonda: Tell us about your first radio job. Where was it and what did you do?

Tim: I was raised around radio broadcasting from a child by way of my Dad. However in 1979, I got my first on air DJ position at a local Southern Gospel radio station, WGIC. In 1981, I moved to WGNZ, where my Dad, Mom and I would become owners in 1982.

Vonda: How long have you been singing Gospel music?

Tim: I started singing around six years old. My first song on stage was “Go Tell It On The Mountain.” The only way I would agree to sing the first time in front of the audience where my Dad was the Pastor, was for the lights to be turned off.

Vonda: What is your current radio job? Tell us about

something special that has happened there?

Tim: Today I remain active on air as well as serving as President of the Corporation and Parent of WGNZ Radio in Dayton. Very blessed to part of the same station for around 35 years, with all the stations that have come and gone and changed formats around us. God has blessed us to be a thriving Southern Gospel radio station. A special blessing has been the way God has led us over the decades to be very active in taking the WGNZ programming beyond the footprint of the over the air coverage in the Dayton, Columbus, Cincinnati Ohio area, to the digital space. WGNZ was one of the first Christian radio stations to stream live online in 1996.

And today, WGNZ has launched the latest platform for listeners by creating mobile applications. In all smartphone markets around the world, WGNZ can be heard.

Vonda: Where is your favorite vacation spot?

Tim: Israel has to be number one for me. I’ve been there 16 times and it does something new and special every time I re-visit. And then there’s Hawaii, it’s simply gorgeous.

Vonda: Would you share your testimony with us?

Tim: I’m so very thankful that I know Jesus Christ as my Savior. My heart’s desire is to live for Jesus and lift up His name to everyone I can, however I can; whether preaching, singing, broadcasting or songwriting. If I had only a moment to give a snapshot of my testimony, it would to read Titus 3:5-7: “Not by works

of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.�

You can hear Tim Livingston on air every day, Monday through Friday afternoon, on his Glimpse of Calvary program. Saturday mornings Tim takes to the airwaves again, as well as on Sunday, when the station airs the morning and evening services live from Pastor Livingston’s church, Greenview Calvary Tabernacle. For more station information as well as the mobile app for your smartphone, go to www.wgnz.com. For more information visit his website at timlivingstonmusic.com.

N C Gospel Music’s Newest & Favorite Duet

Campbell & Rowley

New Covenant

(304) 228-3363 117 Ludlow Lane Daniels, WV 25832

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This space could be yours! contact Rob Patz via email at rob@sgnscoops.com

Mark Bishop Let God Be God

By Marcie Gray There are some people who are just so genuine you feel like you could sit and visit with them for hours and never run out of things to talk about. I had the opportunity to visit with Mark before one of his concerts in Tennessee, and the entire evening was a wonderful series of stories from the Bible, packaged in beautiful music delivered through Mark’s powerful testimony. Mark Bishop is an accomplished songwriter, and it’s not difficult to understand why his songs are requested frequently and move up the charts quickly. Simply put, they tell a story that has a message we can all relate to. If you aren’t familiar with Mark’s music, I highly recommend his latest album, That’s What It’s All About. I have the songs “Tonight, I’ll Mention You in my Prayers,” and “Pray on the Little Days,” on repeat in my playlist. The lyrics to the chorus of “Pray on the Little Days,” speak volumes: “Let God be God on the little days. And He’ll be God on the bigger days. Why do we wait until things go wrong, When we could have Him by our side all along? Let God be God in the best of times, and He’ll be God Through the worst of times. When you need God to move in mighty ways. When you need God to be there on the bigger days, pray on the little days.”

When I asked how old Mark was when he realized he was called to full-time music ministry, he explained that he always liked to listen to music, but his friends thought he would be an artist. “I was always the guy the teacher called on to paint or draw on the blackboard, or do artwork for the yearbook.” Little did he know God had big plans for his many talents to be used in mighty ways!

The Bishop Family always enjoyed music, but didn’t set out to pursue a career in the industry. “I was 16 when we started attending church regularly,” Mark shared.

“We would sing congregational hymns in church and my folks and Kenny and I would pick out parts and sing harmony. The worship songs were accompanied by about six guitars, a piano and a drummer. Not many were singing harmony in church, so we sang it.” Mark’s family attended a Pentecostal Holiness Church 30 minutes from where they lived. “We would sing songs all the way to church and back, harmonizing with each other,” said Mark. Growing up in a small town in Kentucky, Mark fondly recalls memories of those pleasant evenings on the front porch with the family, pickin’ and singin’ as the crickets chirped nearby. “Back then, we had just a few television channels and no video games, so we would sit on the porch together and sing for the fun of it.

“In 1987, we had a big song that made it to the top five, ‘Lazarus, Come Forth.’ One of the funniest memories I have from all of our concerts was when we were in concert with The Perrys and The Chuck Wagon Gang and our family took the stage and started singing, “Lazarus, Come Forth.’ Much to all of our surprise, he did! This scraggly, long-haired man marched proudly up to the stage and exclaimed, ‘I am he!’ It took everything we had to hold it together and finish the song!”

Back then, much more than it is now, National Quartet Convention was where promoters would come and book a group based on that performance. US Gospel News’ The Gospel Voice had an awards show with all of the major groups in the Southern Gospel industry in attendance. “We sang ‘Lazarus, Come Forth,’ and had a great performance,” Mark said. “Glen Payne recommended that the Harper Agency sign us. We were singing because we loved it and were passionate about the ministry of it, so being approached by an agent brought on a big change for our ministry.”

“Soon, other churches asked us to come and sing and it slowly grew from there. Within two years, we were on the stage singing with some of the big groups. Our first album was recorded in a local studio. We made the album for Granny Bishop because she liked to hear us sing. She had arthritis and when her limbs were too drawn up to attend church, she gave my dad $500 to go to a local studio and record an album so she could still hear her family sing.

That $500 purchased 8 hours of studio time and 200 vinyl albums and cassettes.”

Mark shared, “We would sing at some local churches and a local radio station asked if we had an album. Dave Wilcox at the Eddie Crook Company was the A&R guy at a new record company in Goodlettesville, TN close to Nashville. Prior to the 1980’s, the top charting songs were comprised of just a few groups who were known nationally. The Perrys, The Martins, The Greenes, The Isaacs, along with the Bishops were some of the new and upcoming groups that benefited from the access to Nashville talent and access to the larger fan base. For a flat fee, Eddie would record an album and send the 45’s nationally to radio stations. Eddie’s idea gave artists a national audience, so from that compilation, one or two of each artist’s songs might break away from the pack and go national. The Bishops came up through that system and our first single ‘Oh, God, I Love You,’ charted and peaked in the top 40 at number 40. We went back and recorded another album with the Eddie Crook Company and we kept having success on the radio charts.

The early to mid-1980’s were a sort of renaissance period for Southern Gospel music. All of the groups up to that point were very professional and exuded a certain stage quality that didn’t seem quite as churchy as groups might be today. They were equivalent with the popular country music artists of that era. Suddenly, there were church groups performing on the same stages as the pro-

fessional artists. Mark commented, “We sang the way you sing in church; not polished and not professional, compared to some others who had come up in it. The studio can make anybody sound like a million dollars, but live performances are a reality for any recording artists, and to meet the expectation of the audience after paying a ticket price, we felt we should just be who we were and not put on airs.”

grass Gospel Album of the Year for Kentucky Bluegrass.

In August of 2001, after more than 17 years of success, 27 national top-40 songs, including 12 top-five songs, three that hit number-one on the charts, The Bishop Family retired their singing ministry. Their career had included appearances on national television programs such as The Grand Ole Opry, Crooke and Chase, The World Today (John Hagee), Nashville Now, Gaither Homecoming television and videos and many more.

Mark said, “I was still writing music, but I was going to retire from traveling and singing, as I was ready to go find something else to do. After a couple of months, my wife said, ‘Don’t you think God intends for you to be doing something with the songs He’s giving you?’ I did not feel led to form another group and did not want to be compared to the sound my family was known for, so when the record company we were with suggested I begin a solo ministry and Ed Harper said, ‘We will continue to book you,’ the decision was made.

“My solo ministry began in 2002, and I had already decided that if none of the songs charted and the radio stations had not decided to play the music I released as a solo artist, I would get out of the business within a year. Shortly before The Bishop Family stopped touring, I had started to do more of the talking and sharing onstage.

I was unaware at the time that God was preparing me for being a solo artist and having the stage to myself for an entire hour at a time. After my first several concerts, I was still learning the difference between group dynamics and solo, and as time went along, I was trying to find a rhythm that felt natural, as I had found out that every venue has a different heartbeat.” By 2005, Mark found himself being voted Soloist of the Year in the Singing News Fan Awards.

Mark considers himself a songwriter who travels and sings. “The songs I wrote back then were so simple.

I can remember us sitting on the front porch when we decided we would go out and start singing. Dad said, ‘Somebody’s going to have to emcee these concerts.’”

Mark chuckled as he continued, “Well, Kenny worked at the radio station, so he could do the talking. For the next 17 years, Kenny was the emcee. We didn’t have a designated songwriter. When we recorded the first album, Dad said, ‘Kenny and Mark, you both write one and I’ll write one.’ We combined that with other material we liked and our first album was a success. Kenny and Dad became less interested in songwriting as the years went along, and I became more interested, so each time we recorded a new album, I did more of the songwriting.”

In 2000, The Bishops won a Gospel Music Association Dove Award with Mark as the producer for Blue-

a son-in-law who plays the drums. I really enjoy traveling with a band. It brings the music to life, and it’s just a welome change to enjoy singing on stage with family again.

In a lot of ways, this feels like I am coming full circle. I’m singing with my two daughters just like my dad started singing with his wo sons many years ago.”

Mark records under the Sonlight Records label at Crossroads Music in Asheville, North Carolina, and is booked exclusively by The Harper Agency (615) 8514500. You can visit Mark’s website at: www.markbishopmusic.com to learn more about his music and his ministry.

Thank you, Mark, for taking the time to talk with me and share a little about your musical journey with the readers of SGN Scoops Magazine, and thank you for the reminder to “Pray on the little days… and let God be God!”

Mark enjoys mixing things up and singing at different venues. He shared that he wouldn’t want to sing in just churches, because he loves to go where there’s a chance to share his testimony with someone who may never visit a church. Some of his favorite venues outside of churches are the Singing at Sea cruise and Dollywood, and anywhere else he can share the good news of the Gospel with folks who might not know about it.

Any couple whose marriage has stood the test of time, especially in the midst of a career that requires extensive travel, deserves a big Congratulations! Mark and Carolyn have been married for over 30 years and have two daughters who have joined Mark to sing on his latest album, to be released in January 2016. They are finishing up this brand new album that has a more acoustic feel to it. Mark said, “God blessed me with a wife who supports my ministry, two daughters who are gifted vocalists, and

Greg Bentley of Crossroads Talks About Forget The Sea Mark Bishop came to us at Crossroads (Sonlite Records) with his vision of what he wanted to do with his new album. When he proposed bringing in his daughters and some guys from their church and forming the group “Forget The Sea”, we were really intrigued with the idea. Next step would be getting an idea of where the style was going to go. Would it change what people have come to love about Mark Bishop? Or would the group take on his personality and style? Well, the answer to both questions is YES! But not in a negative way at all.

Mark is still the front man for this group, and the main drive behind the songwriting. But now, there is a fresh new twist to both the writing and the style, and we think Mark’s fans are going to love it, as well as a lot of new fans that will be introduced to Mark’s amazing songwriting.

If I try to explain the sound, I will not do it justice. So let’s say it is down to earth, good acoustic driven music, with powerful relevant lyrics. One of the conversations I had with Mark was about how his ministry has come full circle. He started singing with his dad and brother as The Bishops, and now he is the dad with his two daughters.

It’s still got that Americana, front porch feel to it, like has always been a trait of the Bishop’s music. It’s just now a new generation on stage.

For any Mark Bishop fan, you are going to love this. Mark Bishop and Forget The Sea are just a lot more of a great thing! So plan on going and seeing them in person, and purchasing their new Mark Bishop and Forget The Sea CD when it comes out in early 2016!

a i d Me three bridges

higher hope

The Steeles

Eagles wings

Ashley and Josh Franks

Linda foster

carter robertson band

meadow lane

the griffiths

page trio

glorybound qt

the grissops

Wisdom from Wells

by Dusty Wells “My, you look so pretty today!” I am fairly certain that opening line may have gotten your attention, and hopefully you are reading this and you will continue to read my rambling thoughts to the very end. If not, oh well, you will miss the last great line that has your “name” written throughout it.

That opening line, with six simple words stating, “my, you look so pretty today” can bring about so much joy, sunshine and security to a person.

It can make one hold their head high and walk in such strength. Of course we have all heard for years, that words and actions can either speak life or death to you. I truly do believe this. I strive to practice it and I will preach it until the day I am called home to be with Jesus. We, my friends – yes, you and me - we do have the power of life and death in our tongue.

As a child who was raised in a home with several abusive stepfathers, my day-to-day life was often filled with all kinds of verbal and mental abuse.

I was told many times horrible and hateful things about my appearance, my clumsiness, my nose, my sensitivity, my lack of knowledge in sports, my creativity, and as much as I hate to admit it, the list goes on and on. Those words, actions and such pushed me into some dark lonely places and caused me to question so much about me and who I was. For years, even after I became a Christian at 14, the lack of affirmation and encouragement plagued me and I made many wrong choices and decisions that did nothing but take me down some dark lonely paths. Even though I began to know and understand how much God loved me, created me and was there for me, there would still be those haunting doubts and insecurities trying to rule and reign over my world.

Thank God, He always has a plan and His ways are far greater than ours. He began to place many people in my life who began to speak words of life over me. I would walk into church after having experienced

some verbal abuse or being made fun of, and there would be someone so special, like sweet and tender 85-year-old Sister Foos, and she would come out of her way to give me a hug, tell me how nice I looked, compliment me on my wild looking hippy tie (it was the 70’s of course), and then she would tuck a dollar in my hand to make sure I had money for a coke. She was planting good in my life.

So many other faithful friends through the past 40 years have spoken life over me with their words and actions, and yes, of course I have had others who have tried to speak death and junk. However, I decided I would choose to believe the good and not focus on the bad, unless it was something that I could learn and grow from, constructive criticism or just words of advice. All it takes is us speaking to someone and telling them how loved, how valuable they are, how hard they work, how much God loves and adores them, how their sensitivity is a gift, how strong they are in their faith, how talented they are with the gifts God has given them. Just words that will build them up and help them in what they have

been entrusted with.

Yes, it all sounds so simple and maybe this little note is just a reminder to all of us once again that we can help others with our words and actions. I love the scripture, Psalms 139, where it says that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. What amazing words of affirmation and encouragement those are, and what a gift that we can share those words with others.

So take a look around you, a really long eye-toeye look around you, and see who you can speak life to. You never know the impact you have on someone’s life by sharing heart and words that will help bring life and energy.

Call me Mr. Positive, that’s always words of life to me. And I want to tell you today that: “You, my friend, are so loved, so valuable, and you are the apple of His eye and His plans are for you to prosper in all ways.”

Now that is truth, and that brings life even to me, as I tell it once again. Because His truth lives on and on and on.

Check out our new CD titled "SAVED!" Call our offices today to order your copy!

www.williamsonsmusic.com

Christ Is Your Anchor A Look at The Anchormen Quartet

By Justin Gilmore

One of the definitions of the word anchor is a person or thing that gives strength or support. Many people place their trust and faith in things that cannot provide the strength or support they need. Those who place their faith in Jesus Christ receive His almighty strength. When Christ is your anchor, you can make it through the hardships that life brings your way. The Anchormen, one of Southern Gospel’s premiere groups, is a fitting name for this quartet co-founded by Terry Carter in 1979.

Carter reflects on the early days of the group. “The group started in the spring of 1979. We are now celebrating 36 years in ministry. We began singing in three or four states for the first five years of our ministry. In 1985, we were able to travel on a full-time scale. Even through personal changes and trials along the way God has kept his hand on the ministry of The Anchormen.”

The members of this stellar group hold to Christ as their anchor as their music reflects. For more than three de-

cades, the Anchormen have been traveling the country and the world spreading the good news of the Gospel to thousands of people. They perform around 200 concert dates per year and dedicate their lives to praising Jesus Christ.

Not only do they hope to bring joy to their listeners, the quartet’s goal is to effectively lead audiences to a sincere knowledge of Christ through His music. The men of this quartet have made it their mission to stay faithful to the call placed on their lives.

The award-winning quartet has maintained a unique and solid sound no matter the lineup. Manager Tim Bullins states that groups such as the Happy Goodman Family, Hinsons, and The Blackwood Brothers have inspired them musically. Carter adds, “Other influences on the group include: the Cathedral Quartet, the Kingsmen of the 70’s and 80’s, the Stamps, the Statesmen, and the Downings.”

Many great vocalists have taken the stage as mem-

bers of this fine group including: tenors Benny Blackburn, Steve Ladd, Tony Jarman, David Sutton, and Karl Rice; lead singers Biney English, Dale Forbes, David Hill, Jason Funderburk, Chip Pullen, and Phillip Hughes; baritones Chad Smith and Michael Bartlett; and bass singers Jody Medford, Jeff Chapman, Aaron McCune, David Hester, and Paul Harkey.

Many former Anchormen now serve in other major groups such as: tenor David Sutton (Triumphant), tenor Karl Rice (The Williamsons), lead Chip Pullen (Gold City), bass Jeff Chapman (Kingdom Heirs), and bass Paul Harkey (Ernie Haase and Signature Sound). Each member brought a different dynamic to the group and helped to make this group what it is today.

The current lineup is marked by the return of several former members. Terry Carter, who was a founding member of the group, sang baritone for about 18 years before taking a nine-year break. Carter rejoined the group in 2010 and picked up right where he left off. His infectious energy makes him a great emcee, and his smooth baritone voice delights crowds all over the world. Carter has been nominated in the Top 10 Singing News fan awards and is

considered by peers and fans to be one of Southern Gospel’s most beloved baritones.

Will Lane originally joined the Anchormen in 2003 at 23 years old as their bass singer. Lane remained with the quartet until 2006 when he left to co-found Driven Quartet.

Last year, he returned to the Anchormen after the departure of Randy Byrd. Lane’s dynamic and rich bass voice has made him a fan favorite over the years.

Lead singer Phillip Hughes, whose previous tenure with the group lasted four years, rejoined this year after singing tenor for the Harvesters Quartet. Hughes is well known for his powerful voice and ability to communicate a lyric with great emotion.

Tenor Derrick Boyd is no stranger to Southern Gospel music having performed with the Dixie Melody Boys, Heaven Bound, The Carolina Boys (Kingsmen Quartet) and the Blackwoods. His incredible tenor voice, powerful testimony and great personality make him a vital part of this group.

The Anchormen are also known for excellent, well-written songs, many of which have made the Top 40 on the Singing News Charts. Terry Carter prides himself on producing top quality recordings as evidenced by the vast catalog of Anchormen records. Their latest CD only continues this tradition of quality songs and production.

Tapestry--Woven Treasures, which was released in March of this year, features a variety of old and new songs including a couple of Anchormen classics that have been re-recorded. Carter states, “We feel we have a great cut with our new single release called ‘You Ain’t Seen The Last of Jesus.’ We are excited to see how it will do on radio.” This mid-tempo song on the resurrection features the deep bass tones of Will Lane and the powerful lead vocals of Phillip Hughes.

The project also includes classics such as “Come To The Fountain,” and “I’ve Been Touched,” which are both Anchormen classics recorded in the early 90’s. The

group recorded several other classics including “He Is Worthy,” which according to Carter is Derrick Boyd’s signature song, which he sang with The Dixie Melody Boys.

Now in their 36th year of full time Southern Gospel music, Terry Carter and the Anchormen have been blessed with longevity in the ministry and with this long history come many great stories. Carter says, “Some highlights for me would be singing at the NQC for the first time in 1982 in Nashville, and singing for the first time on national TV on Camp Meeting USA in 1987. But still today the greatest highlight is a soul coming to accept Christ as their Savior.”

The year 2015 brings even more good things for this stellar quartet. Terry Carter exclaims, “The group will be at Memphis Quartet Show in 2016 for the first time.

We are also currently looking at material for an upcoming recording.” In terms of concerts, group manager Tim Bullins states, “Fans can expect high-energy singing and transparent testimonies along with songs ranging from old classics to today’s favorites when attending an Anchormen concert.”

Carter adds, “Our ultimate goal is to do our best for Christ our Savior and that through our efforts many will come to know Christ as their personal Savior.” The Anchormen have held steadfast to this goal and have been truly blessed in their career. Through all the changes, Christ remains their anchor.

Exodus Facebook: exodus-southerngospel Www.exodus-southerngospel.com Exodus.southerngospel@gmail.com Contact info :256 438 9944

Mark Mathes : Write Your Heart

By Paige Givens

What makes a song stand out to listeners? What makes it more than just good? Of course, there are many ways to blend harmonies and progress chords that are pleasing to the ear. There are rhyme schemes and song structures and syllable counts that make for a great flow with the music; but to really make a song touch the souls and change the lives of those who hear it takes more than just skill. It takes a writer who is writing from deep down in the heart, a writer who is in tune with the Creator of all songs. Mark Mathes is one such songwriter who is truly writing songs from his heart—and the music world is taking notice!

Like many songwriters, Mark’s musical roots started at an early age and have grown very deeply.

“Our family was and still is a singing family. As long as I can remember there was music in our home and in our car as we traveled down the road. As a young child I would set my alarm for 6:30 AM on Sunday mornings so I could watch The Gospel Singing Jubilee and The Lester Family. These programs allowed me to see The Happy Goodmans, the Florida Boys, the Hinsons, The Rex Nelon Singers, The Rambos, and many more fine gospel groups. My mom’s side of the family enjoyed getting together and playing music. Most

of the time while my cousins were out playing in the yard, I was inside with the adults, playing the piano. I always dreamed of traveling and singing in a group. In my early teens my brother, sister and I began singing around the area. By the time I was 15, I was singing with a local group, the Gospelaires. We traveled almost every weekend singing gospel music. Since that time I have always been involved in some way with Gospel music.”

Mark is currently sharing music with his home church. “I am blessed to serve as Minister of Music at Crossway Baptist Church in Springfield, MO. I have been here for nine years. We have a choir, band, orchestra and Praise Team and we love to sing and worship the Lord. Our church sings a wide variety of music; Hymns, Praise and Worship, Camp Meeting Songs, and we have several quartets and soloists. It’s a joy to lead such a great group of people and an honor to serve beside our Pastor, Dr. Eddie Bumpers. He is so supportive of our music ministry and a great encourager to me.

“Music has always been a strong expression of worship for me personally. I don’t know why, but I can memorize a song in minutes and can’t remember where I left my cell phone! I love ‘heart’ music--songs

that are from the heart. I believe they touch the heart of God. Don’t get me wrong, though; I love great harmony, chords, styles, rhythms, beautiful voices and songs sung in pitch. God is the Creator of music. He put it in us. And to hear God’s people singing is one of my favorite things to listen to. How it must touch the heart of God.” Mark began writing songs in his early twenties.

“My wife, Leisa, and I moved back home to Salem, Missouri and the first piece of furniture we purchased was a piano. I began writing songs and singing them in our home. Leisa encouraged me to sing them out, and to start sending them to Gospel groups. I first began singing them with my cousins around churches in our area.

To my surprise, people liked them. Local groups began asking if they could sing my songs. And finally, I sent a song called ‘Prayed Up, Packed Up’ to the Lester Family. They liked it and recorded it. I remember we heard that they were singing at a theater about an hour from us, so we drove up to hear them sing my song. I was so blessed. It was unexplainable to hear a professional group sing my song and to experience the response from the audience.”

Mark has gone on to write many more wonderful titles that have been sung by groups that include The Nelons, Gold City Quartet, The Kingdom Heirs, The Blackwood Brothers, The Mark Trammell Trio, The McKameys, and more. Mark has had writing contracts with The Nelons and with Christian Taylor Publishing.

He is currently not associated with a publisher or music company.

me. The red buds were blooming, the fields were green, and little yellow flowers were sprinkled all along the roadside. As I topped the hill it seemed as if I could see forever. The blue grey Ozark Mountains lined the horizon and all I could think about was the majesty of God. I thought, ‘How can anyone drive down this highway and not think about God, the Creator? He formed this beautiful scenery, painted a beautiful picture of colors, textures and degrees, and all of this for us.’ Then it hit me and I began to sing to Him, from my heart.

I thought, ‘God, these mountains have caused my heart to turn to You this morning, just like the personal mountains of life that I have experienced these past few months. I have found You closer than ever, softly speaking to me in the darkest times of life, walking with me in dry places and even riding with me in this rocking boat on a stormy sea. You’ve got my attention, Lord! Your love for me is stronger than this struggle. You say that You will never leave me, and today I trust You and believe. Forgive me for trying to take control. I give it all to You. Please, direct my paths.” With that prayer, Mark wrote the heart-stirring song “Sometimes It Takes A Mountain.”

Sometimes it takes a mountain Sometimes a troubled sea Sometimes it takes a desert

Last year, after some months of personal valleys, Mark wrote a song that would touch the souls of many, many listeners. “As I was heading south down I-65, I couldn’t help but notice the scenery in front of

To get ahold of me Your love is so much stronger

Than whatever troubles me Sometimes it takes a mountain To trust You and believe -Sometimes It Takes A Mountain, Mark Mathes, 2nd verse by Gloria Gaither “I attended Gloria Gaither’s Songwriting Intensive last year and while I was there Bill contacted me and asked if I could meet with him. We went to his office and there he played ‘Sometimes It Takes A Mountain.’ They had just recorded the tracks and their scratch vocals were the only vocals on that CD. I think I cried, and I smiled.

“I could tell Bill really liked the song. He even suggested that he might even title the project after it.

To write a song that touched the heart of Bill Gaither is still unbelievable to me. I know it was God who gave me the song that morning as I was driving down the road, and after hearing many testimonies of how the lyrics have helped so many people, I also know the song was not just for me. When I hear that Rhodes piano introduction come on the radio I crank up the volume and sing along and thank Jesus!

home from vacation. We had a message from my mom.

‘Mark, I just sat down to rest and turned on the TV and saw the Gaither Vocal Band singing your song.’ Well, we couldn’t wait to watch it! We recorded the episode and just sat there and cried as we watched and listened to the Gaither Vocal Band sing my song. Unbelievable!

This was a dream come true. We showed it to all of our family and guests and still choke up as we watch it.”

Mark will continue to write from his heart as the words and music are given to him. The world of Gospel music is blessed to have a writer as sincere and humble as Mark Mathes. For songwriters who are beginning to work on the craft, Mark leaves us with this: “Write your heart. If you’re writing Gospel music, read God’s Word, listen to sermons online and TV. Listen to Gospel music and to other different styles of music. Read books, attend conferences and learn all you can about the craft of writing songs. Write as often as you can.

Review your work. Critique it. Write your heart.”

You can contact Mark through his church’s website at www.crosswaybc.org, or write to: Mark Mathes, Minister of Music, Crossway Baptist Church, Springfield, MO 65803 Photo courtesy of Jeff Longman.

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1

Puppy Love

By Sheri LaFontaine

Photo Courtesy of ~SMugridge~ The song, “How Much is That Doggie in the Window?” was not written by Rusty Goodman and I’m pretty sure that Gerald Crabb didn’t pen, “Who Let the Dogs Out?” So what is this connection that Southern Gospel artists have with our four-legged friends?

Many of them have become regular band members, touring on the bus with their favorite group or family. From the Nelons’ famous Dachshunds, to Jeff and Sheri Easter’s little Malti-poo, there is no doubt that we’ve all happily gone to the dogs.

Meet T-Bear Whisnant, a T-cup Pomeranian that has simply stolen the heart of powerhouse alto, Susan Whisnant.

SL: Where did you find T-Bear?

Susan: We got him from a breeder in our hometown.

SL: And who does he sleep with on the bus?

Susan: He sleeps with me. If he’s mad at me, he sleeps with Aaron.

At NQC 2014, Randall Crawford of the Kingsmen and his sweet wife, Caroline were smitten when they met my Abbey girl. I could see that they were dog parents right away.

SL: Tell us about your pooches.

Randall: Sure! We have four, but I will focus on the two inside.

SL: Sounds good. Tell us who this is in the picture.

Randall: The white dog is Bella and she is a seven-yearold Maltese. She sleeps with my wife and I.

SL: Tell me something unique about Bella.

Randall: Well, she is NOT a lap dog. She likes to greet you when you first get home, but then she is done with you!

SL: And who is this other baby?

Randall: The little sleepy dog is Chloe. Chloe is a one year old and loves to play fetch! She will retrieve a ball and bring it back as many times as you will throw it.

SHE NEVER GETS TIRED! Going from one quartet man to another. Smooth baritone, Mike LeFevre, has a soft heart toward his canine pal.

SL: Go ahead and introduce us.

Mike: This is Icee.

He is a full-blooded Chihuahua. He

lives to be loved and held.

SL: Ok, you have to explain this picture.

Mike: Funny thing about Icee is when the dryer is finished, before the clothes are taken out; he has been known to jump in the dryer to lie in the warm clothes.

We LOVE Icee!

True class and solid harmonies, The Williamsons have certainly won the hearts of many. All the while, a four-month-old Pug named Maggie Mae has won their hearts.

SL: She is still a baby. How is she adapting to life on the bus?

Lisa: So far, she loves to travel! She seems to be pretty content whether her house is rolling or sitting still. When we are on the bus she thinks she has to sleep in the bunk with the girls. She’s just a little

bit rotten!

SL: What’s her favorite thing to do?

Lisa: I think her favorite things right now are playing fetch with her red squeaky ball, playing outside with our other dog named Rosabelle and tormenting our cat, Isabelle!

SL: And I have to ask. Does she have a favorite person?

Lisa: Of course, I’m her favorite person (because I feed her!) but she loves our girls, Sadie and Olivia too! She was actually my Mother’s Day gift this year, so she’s pretty special to me. She was only six weeks old when we got her. She weighed 1 lb and 6 oz. now she’s a whopping 10 lbs! I’ve had several other pugs in my life but I have to say, she is my absolute favorite!

The bond between wet noses and those in the spotlight is a strong one.

The truth is, they don’t care how high your song charted last month or whether you hit a bad note on main stage.

Much like our Heavenly Father, they seem to have something that we all crave...unconditional love.

P.S. I think it only fair since I wrote this article, that I should get to show off my babies. Meet George Bailey (Shih-tzu) and Miss Abbey (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel).

The

Williamsons

The Music Continues

By Vivian Belknap

In 1969, The Williamsons Gospel music group had its beginning when Woody Williamson, a Baptist pastor, brought his wife Eula Mae - nicknamed Pinky because her hair was red, his son Donnie and his daughter, Tennie to the platform to sing. They sang for their church and began singing at other churches in the area and this was the root that helped to grow into the current group.

The Williamsons continued with the occasional singing dates until about 1979 at which time Donnie joined the Antone Indian Family, a Native American group from Canada singing Southern Gospel music.

He traveled with them for a couple of years and came back home to go to college. After returning to college however, he was always singing or playing with various groups. Donnie states, “You kinda get the gospel music

bug and you can’t get rid of it.”

In 1998, Donnie organized The Homesteaders Quartet, not intending to do much traveling; but Donnie was surprised at how popular they became and before long they were doing over 100 dates a year.

In late 1999, Donnie’s sister felt she needed to stay home because her husband had recently been saved and she was also having some health issues. Although Lisa was singing with another group, Donnie asked her to fill in for his sister and she accepted the position. On New Year’s Eve 1999 Donnie asked Lisa to join the group permanently. Lisa says, “We decided we liked each other so much we would stay together forever,” and they were married in 2003. They traveled as The Homesteaders Quartet until 2010 at which time Donnie

returned to his roots by renaming the group The Williamsons. Now the music of The Williamsons continues.

Lisa Chesser Williamson grew up in a ministry family with pastors, musicians and singers on both sides of her family. She decided at the age of four she wanted to sing in church with her mom and dad, Larry and Debbie Chesser, to no one’s surprise. Lisa fell in love with Southern Gospel music at an early age and cannot remember when she was not singing. Lisa says along with her family there was another special family who helped to spark her interest in singing and that was the Doziers from Paul’s Valley, OK. The Dozier family came to her father’s church to sing and listening to them at six years old, she knew that was what she wanted to do as an adult. In the seventh or eighth grade she had to write an essay on what she wanted to do when she grew up. Lisa says, “I wish I had a copy of it to this day because I wrote in detail everything we do each weekend. We would leave out on Thursday night to sing Friday, Saturday and Sunday and come dragging in to our regular work week to take care of business and then leave again the following Thursday; and this is exactly what we do today.”

Lisa’s mom and dad taught her everything she knows, but she loved the other family groups too, like the Hinsons, the Hemphills, the Goodmans and the Paynes. She wrote her first song when she was 12 and has currently written 80 to 85 songs. She writes the

words and although she does not read music she has the tune in her head. Lisa then teams up with Donnie and sitting down at the piano Donnie translates the melody into written notes. They have become so much a part of each other; Lisa says Donnie can almost read her mind.

This partnership is obvious during their time on stage.

The Williamsons are a part of the Butler Music Group, and Donnie credits Les Butler with being a great asset in the area of management. The Dominion Agency books for the Williamsons and handles their promotion.

Donnie and Lisa’s daughters Sadie, 10 and Olivia, eight, are enrolled in public school and are part of the gifted and talented program, and also in the home bound program which allows them to travel and

stay current with schooling. Both are at the top of their respective classes.

Donnie says they usually bring the girls on stage to sing at least one song with them. They can already sing harmony and Donnie says he wishes he could say they have worked with and trained the girls but actually they have picked most of this up on their own. Sadie has an alto voice and Oliva has a soprano voice, and at the age of six could come in and find the high tenor part herself. Given their family heritage, they are blessed with natural talent.

Their mission statement says a lot about the Williamsons. “We will share the Gospel through music in order that the lost may come to Christ, the Christian be uplifted and provide quality Christian entertainment in a way that will honor God.” Donnie emphasized that it is always in that order. He believes that there

is a small group of people who can be reached only through Gospel music. Donnie shares that the second part of the mission statement is to be an encourager for

the Christian in a hurting world. Entertainment is not their ultimate goal but they use entertainment to share the Gospel. Donnie states, “I am willing to use anything that is moral and Godly to help share the Gospel message.”

Donnie and Lisa operate Homestead Studio near their hometown of Weleetka, OK. Lisa is the studio en-

gineer and they both produce. The reason for the studio is to help artists who live in the Midwest to have closer access to a recording studio. They do more vocal recording and editing than music tracks. They use a lot of Nashville musicians to make their music tracks. They work with studios like Crossroads and the Butler Music Group to lay down the instrumentals and then bring the tracks back to their studios to record the vocals.

Donnie says they have artists drive up from the Dallas/ Ft. Worth area and also fly in from Canada to record at their studio mainly because of Lisa’s engineering talent. The artists appreciate the comfortable atmosphere and the kindness and expertise of Lisa during the recording session. For more information about Homestead Studio you can contact Donnie through their website listed below.

Darin Hebert is the bass singer for The Williamsons and as Donnie likes to say that they grew their own bass singer. A little group in Oklahoma called Inheritance Trio came to Darin’s church in Goodwill, LA to sing. He was about 16 or 17 and he got to sing one song with them and nothing more was said. About six months later, one of the members of the Inheritance Trio knew that Donnie was looking for a bass singer and recommended Darin. Darin said, “That just shows you how small the world is and how important it is to sing every chance you get.”

He started with The Williamsons in 2005 and was still in high school, driving almost every weekend between Louisiana and Oklahoma to minister with the Williamsons. He would leave Louisiana on Thursday or Friday and sing with the Williamsons through the Sunday AM service and then drive back to Louisiana in order to go to school the next day. He graduated from high school on a Thursday and moved to Oklahoma the next day.

Darin married his high school sweetheart, Kallie Berndt, in 2008, and in 2009, God blessed them with a son, Patrick Brian Hebert. They now live just outside of Weleetka, OK and he enjoys coaching his son’s T-Ball team when he is in town.

We got to hear The Williamsons recently in concert in Roanoke TX and enjoyed his rich bass voice.

Les Butler of Butler Music Group, says, “Darin has a cut, tone and range that rivals any bass singer in southern gospel music”.

Karl Rice is the tenor singer and when asked what he wants the world to know about him, he just says: “Karl Rice loves Jesus.” He has been writing songs for four or five years, and was with the Anchormen Quartet for over four years before joining The

Williamsons as their tenor. The first recorded song Karl wrote was “Heaven’s Hope,” recorded by the Anchormen on one of their Christmas projects.

On the Williamsons’ latest album, Tell Someone, the song “Healing For The Hurting” is co-written

by Karl Rice and Donna King. He said that one of the things on his bucket list was to write with Donna King. “I had this song on the back burner and I knew it needed some work. She helped me get the message across and worded the right way.”

Karl loves to hunt and fish and to smoke meat and his favorite food is his own cooking. Karl, his wife, Daniela, and daughter Grace now make their home in Wetumka, OK. Karl is not only a great singer and songwriter, but is proficient on the guitar, piano, Dobro, mandolin, and harmonica along with other stringed instruments. His wife, Daniela, was born and raised in Wiesbaden, Germany and they met at a gospel singing. Daniela and her sister went to an Anchormen Quartet concert and 12 days later her sister married the bass singer. As Karl and the bass singer were sharing a house at the time, Karl would go with the bass singer to the girls’ home where a relationship grew with Daniela and about six months later they were married.

Bo Chesser is the adopted son of Larry and Debbie Chesser and when his school schedule allows, travels with The Williamsons singing and playing his trumpet. “My life kind of got off to a rough start. My biological mother was addicted to drugs and alcohol and I was the typical ‘crack’ baby.” Because of that he

was placed in a foster home at six days old but even then God had a plan for his life. The foster home in which he was placed became his adoptive home.

Because of his birth mother’s addition it was assumed that Bo would be mentally challenged. He was

extremely underweight the first few months of his life and had severe tremors as his body withdrew from the drugs, but after a few months he gained weight and was a normal baby with no mental challenges. His adoption was finalized when he was two years old.

Bo’s dad, Larry Chesser, is a preacher and when he was eight years old, Bo was alone in his room, thinking about what his dad had preached, and he accepted Jesus into his heart. He feels so blessed to be raised in a Christian home. He started traveling with the Williamsons when they were known as the Homesteaders Quartet. He started playing the mandolin when he was nine. When he entered the fifth grade he began playing the trumpet, never expecting it to take him where he is now. Because of his trumpet playing ability he has a full ride band scholarship and academic scholarship to East Central University.

Bo Chesser, is now 19 and enjoys exercising and runs as many Five Kilometre runs as possible. On the bus headed to the next concert Bo tries to do some kind of work out. His favorite food is the lettuce wraps from P. F. Chang’s.

Be watching for The Williamsons latest project, a hymns CD, later this year with Les Butler producing.

The Williamsons in concert are a delight and a blessing as you watch and listen to their performance. Their love for the Lord and their ministry is shown both on the stage and off. When they are in your area please make it a point to attend their concert. For more information about The Williamsons and their schedule visit their website at williamsonsmusic.com.

Randall Reviews It -August

by Randall Hamm

Well, it’s another column of Randall Reviews It! I do

hope you enjoyed July’s Reviews. I trust that you had

a great July 4th and now as the month of August rolls in and parents are getting their children ready to go back to school, I hope that you are looking forward to what will Randall Review this month. Let’s not keep you waiting. Here we find three CD releases that have just, and I do mean just, hit the markets in the last two months. The McKameys, What If released in June, the Churchmen, Crown of Thorns and the Browns, Aim Higher, released in July.

Let the Reviews begin….

The McKameys What If 2015 Horizon Records Studios: Crossroads Studios – Asheville North Carolina Producer: Jeff Collins and Roger Fortner Group Members: Peg McKamey Bean, Ruben Bean, Roger, Connie and Eli Fortner, Sheryl Faris Song Titles: I’m Gonna Give It Away - Sheryl Farris

Your Prayers Have Been Heard - Sandy Blythe There Is A Peace - Adina Bowman Where He Is - Steve Hamby While I Wait - Sheryl Farris I’ll Give You Grace - Richard Blythe Lift My Voice - Robert Deel I Have A Home - Sheryl Farris What If - Sheryl Farris Work In The Field - Linda Nixon

Much fanfare was made of the McKameys last project 50, being the 50th recorded studio by the group from Clinton, Tennessee. Their last single from that project, “Pure Satisfaction,” featuring Roger, went to Number One, bringing Roger’s track record to two for two for his singles. The other single was, “Unspoken Request,” a few years back. This CD is a fine follow up and if you love the McKameys style, you’ll love this one.

As on most McKameys releases, daughter Sheryl has written some fine tunes, four in all on this one. “I’m Gonna Give It Away,” “While I Wait,” “I Have A Home,” and “What If.” The first single release is “I Have A Home,” featuring Peg. By the time this article appears in print, it should be a Top 40 song on the charts.

Roger’s feature is, “Work In The Field,” written

by Linda Nixon and this could make the McKameys track record three for three for Roger’s feature songs, if released as a single. Eli’s feature on the CD is “Where He Is,” written by Steve E. Hamby. Eli does a good job, but the song does not seem to fit him or maybe he is not comfortable with it yet.

Ruben’s featured song is “Lift My Voice,” written by Robert Deel. Sheryl is featured on one of the strongest songs on the project, “What If,” and it should be a single release, as it is another strong song from her writer’s pen. Connie’s features are, “Your Prayers Have Been Heard,” written by Sandy Blythe and “There Is A Peace,” written Adina Bowman.

Visit the McKameys at www.mckameysonline. com Strongest songs on the CD: “I Have A Home,” “What If” and “Work In The Field.”

The Browns Aim Higher 2015 StowTown Records Producer: Wayne Haun Group Members: Shelly Brown, Michaela, Adam and Andrew Brown Song Titles: On The Winning Side - Wayne Haun, Michaela Brown and Shelly Brown Aim Higher - Joel Lindsey, Michaela Brown and Shelly Brown Didn’t Rain - American Spiritual - Additional words by Ben Speer Soul On Fire - Brenton Brown, Mac Powell, Tai Anderson, Mark Lee, David Carr and Matt Maher Love That Won’t Let Go - Rachel McCutcheon Sinners Come To The River - Jeff Bumgardner Fur Elise - Instrumental - Ludwig Van Beethoven P.D. Arr. by Jason Webb Know You Now - Wayne Haun, Randall Garland and Val Dacus Touch Of The Master’s Hand - P.D. Arr. by John Kramp You Speak To Me - Joel Lindsey, Michaela Brown and Shelly Brown

This is the Brown’s second effort from their label home Stow Town Records and is now in stores. What more can be said of this family group? They Aimed Higher and boy did they hit the mark, from the opening track, “On The Winning Side,” written by Wayne Haun, Michaela Brown and Shelly Brown and featuring the group, Country Flavored Gospel at it’s best; to the last track, “You Speak To Me” written by Joel Lindsey, Michaela Brown and Shelly Brown, is a ballad featuring the group and Shelly with the verses.

One of the tracks is a different take on, “Touch Of The Master’s Hand.” Uptempo and unlike any version you’ve heard of this chestnut, with a rousing fiddle solo and Country overtones, this song something you might expect to hear on Country Radio and is also a nod in some ways to a Charlie Daniels tune from the late ‘70’s.

The strongest song on the CD and worthy of a single release is, “Know You Now.” I found myself gravitating back to this song, time and time again. Written by Wayne Haun, Randall Garland and Val Dacus musically, the tune expresses the joys of Heaven that await, but wanting to know Jesus and enjoy His friendship now and His comforting presence.

There is something for everybody: Bluegrass, Gospel, Classical, and Celtic styles. All this, from a group who has been a Singing News Top 10 Favorite Mixed Group for four years in a row, and a Horizon Group for three years. It’s been a long 13-year climb from Iowa to national prominence but this album will further propel the Browns to another level.

Kudos to StowTown, Wayne Haun and the Browns. This just may be the album to get them that Mixed Group Honor. This is the must have CD of the summer. Take it from this reviewer; once you put this in your CD player or Ipod, you may not stop listening for a while.

Visit the Browns at thebrownsmusic.com.

Strongest songs on the CD: “On The Winning Side,” “Know You Now,” and “Aim Higher.”

The strongest song on this project may well be, “You Can Run But You Can’t Hide.” We have many things that distract our attention from the Lord: stereos, TV’s, video games, etc.; many things that keep us from Him. We can hide ourselves behind all these distractions, distance ourselves from our Savior, but when the time comes, you can run, but you can’t hide. All of these distractions keep us from our Lord. What a great song from the pen of Billy C. Jones!

The Churchmen Crown of Thorns 2015 Mountain Fever Records Producer: Self Produced/Aaron Ramsey Engineer Studio: Mountain Fever Studios, Willis Virginia Group Members: Keith Clark, Gerald Harbour, Carroll Arnn, David Guthrie Songs: A Crown Of Thorns – Mary Beth Cordle You Can Run But You Can’t Hide – Billy C. Jones Fire And Flood - Carroll Arnn I Will Rise – Jason Overstreet What A Wonderful Time – Keith Clark Do You Know That You’ve Been Born Again? – Billy C. Jones He Doesn’t Care Where You’ve Been – Carroll Arnn Harbor In The Sky - Becky Buller For Thine – Becky Buller, The King Is On His Throne - Carroll Arnn I Pray a Double Portion - Fawn Jacobs / Mark Hawkins / Jason Ellsworth The Words I Can’t Say – Carroll Arnn, I’d Rather Have Jesus - Rhea F. Miller

For 26-plus years The Churchmen have brought heartfelt, good-feeling, Bluegrass Gospel music. They live what they preach. Dove-nominated and blessed in song, these guys do it all for the right reason and the result is nothing short of fabulous. This is their second release on Mountain Fever Records, Crown Of Thorns.

The Churchmen, in 26 years, have released seven albums and this eighth one is just chock full of songs that will become your favorites, beginning with the first cut, “A Crown Of Thorns” from the pen of Mary Beth Cordle: “For me He bled, a Crown of Thorns upon His head. He gladly took the punishment and wore it like a Crown of Glory.” The great songs continue right to the last cut, a Bluegrass version of the George Beverly Shea classic, “I’d Rather Have Jesus.”

Thirteen great cuts are contained on this CD and what a wonderful job the Churchmen have done to bring us church on this project. Also some fine pickin’ contained on this release, including session player Ron Stewart on fiddle, who is from my hometown of Paoli, Indiana!

The CD was just released last month, so look for it wherever you may buy your music. Visit the Churchmen at www.thechurchmen.com.

Strongest songs on the CD: “I Will Rise,” “You Can Run but You Can’t Hide,” and “Crown of Thorns.”

GospelGigs.com

Featured Groups for August

Support Southern Gospel music and support these groups the next time they’re in your area.

Alex Inman

http://www.alexinmanmusic.com

Ascension Quartet

http://www.theascensionqt.com

Appointed Quartet

http://www.appointedqt.com

Bev McCann and Friends http://www.bevmccann.com

Blackwood Brothers Quartet http://www.blackwoodbrothers.com

Bradford Ministries

http://www.facebook.com/bradfordministries1

The Bridgemans

http://www.thebridgemans.com

Bros4

http://www.bros4.net

Cheyenne McIlvain

http://www.gospelgigs.com/cmministries

Chris Himmel Ministries

http://www.chrishimmelministries.com

Christy Sutherland

http://www.christysutherland.net

Collisons

http://www.collisontrio.com

Cross Pointe Trio

http://www.crosspointemusic.com

Jeff Steinberg Ministry Team http://www.tinygiant.com

Jimmy Howson

http://www.jimmyhowsonmusic.com

Jim Sheldon

John & Dody Martin

Siouxland Gospel Promotions

http://www.martinminitries.org

Ken Hornsby

http://www.gospelgigs.com/ kenhornsbymusicministry

Living Fountains

Southern Plainsmen Quartet

Mark Dubbeld Family

http://www.mjdubbeld.com

The Masters Men + 1

http://www.mastersmenquartet.com

Masters Promise

http://www.masterspromise.com

4 His Praise Trio

www.southernplainsmen.com

Southern Tradition

http://www.americanheritagemusic.com

Steve Jones

http://www.stevejonesgospelmusicministry. com

Stephen Wood

Matt Tollison Music

http://www.gospelgigs.com/ stephenwoodministries

Mercy River Quartet

http://www.gospelgigs.com/threepartsgrace

Midwest Gospel Music Association

http://www.theunityfour.com

http://www.matttollison.com http://www.mercyriverqt.com

http://www.youtube.com/user/ PersuadedVideo

http://www.4hispraisetrio.org

Soul Seeking Disciples

Lumber River Quartet

http://www.lumberriverministries.com

Divine Mercy Eventide

Soul Purpose Ministry

http://www.soulpurposeministry.com http://www.gospelgigs.com/thessds

http://www.onewayquartet.org

http://www.eventidemusic.com

http://www.facebook.com/ SiouxlandGospelPromotions

http://www.gospelgigs.com/livingfountains

Delivered

http://www.divinemercysingers.com

Servants Call

http://www.servantscall.net

http://www.midwestgospelmusic.com

http://www.we-are-delivered.com

Sacred Harmony

http://www.sacredharmony1.com

http://www.jimsheldonmsic.com

David Clydes Haynes

http://www.gospelgigs.com/davidclydehaynes

Robert Blankenship

www.www.gospelgigs.com/rblankenship

Three Parts Grace Unity 4 Quartet

One Way Quartet Persuaded

Pine Ridge Boys

http://www.pineridgeboys.com

The Representatives

www.therepresentativesquartet.net

Full Life Trio

http://www.fulllifetrio.com

Global Promo

http://www.globalpromo.org

The Goodin Family

http://www.gospelgigs.com/thegoodinfamily

The Helmsmen

http://www.thenewhelmsmen.com

The Heritage Quartet

http://www.theheritagequartet.com

The Inmans

http://www.theinmans.com

The Worlds Largest Southern Gospel Search Engine http://www.GospelGigs.com

Gerald Crabb

Gospel Music Fest

By Gerald Crabb, Alisa Asbury and Lorraine Walker

SGN Scoops was thrilled to be a part of the second annual Gerald Crabb Gospel Music Fest held in the North Georgia Trade and Convention Center this past July. From Wednesday, July 8, through Sunday, July 12, fans were treated to great music, amazing vocalists, uplifting worship and wonderful fellowship.

ance, The Freemans and The Hinson Family also thrilled the audience.

The Gospel Fest started with a bang as many of the artists gathered at Heritage Park in Dalton, Georgia, on Wednesday night for a Crabb cookout, prepared and served

by Alisa Asbury and her family. Some of the musicians got out their guitars and had a Gospel jam session. What a great time of singing!

The evening concerts of the Gospel Music Fest were a delight for audience and artist alike. Host of the weekend, Gerald Crabb, welcomed various family members to the stage. His daughter Terah Crabb Penhollow appeared, along with Adam, Jason, and Jason’s daughters Ashleigh and Emma Crabb. Wilburn and Wilburn, Brian Free and Assur-

Weston Hinson of the Hinson Family said later, “There’s something to be said about an event that especially in today’s heavily secular society, still unashamedly promotes the Kingdom of God. That’s why it’s an honor for The Hinson Family to be a part of Gerald Crabb’s Gospel Fest.

Gerald has a heart for the lost and you can tell that by the artists he brings in to share their ministry in this powerful event. I hope to be a part of Gerald Crabb’s Gospel Fest for as long as these events continue and I do believe they will be going for a good long while!”

Every morning began with a worship service and a message by Gerald Crabb. Daily regional showcases featured artists such as Three Strong, Rhonda Frye, the Cowboy Church Choir, Ava Kasich, The Singing Epp family and others.

Saturday also included songwriting and artist seminars led

by Gerald.

Evening concerts always included an altar call, and more than 17 souls were added to the kingdom of God! Attending the Friday concert were special guests Chaplain Wesley Noland and several men from Providence Ministries, a Rescue Mission in Dalton. Noland later said, “…All were extremely grateful that we were invited to this wonderful event. Many used words like awesome and inspiring to describe the artists and their ministry in song, several said it was life-changing what the Lord did in their hearts, which we have witnessed for ourselves. One gentleman in particular said things had become stagnant in his life but after the Friday night experience he had found new motivation and a new-found joy in his spirit.”

The Gospel Fest concluded with a prayer breakfast on Sunday morning featuring special guests, The Freemans.

Chris Freeman said, “It’s always noteworthy as an artist to

Alicia and Gerald for an awesome event. I was so impressed that they would be there to support every single artist who performed in the daytime showcases as well as in the eve-

not only perform with other fantastic talent [like] Brian Free and Assurance, and The Hinson Family, but also to be a part of an event conducted by Gerald Crabb, who remains as one of the premiere figures of humbleness and passion in the ministry. The Freemans are more than honoured to call him a friend.”

nings. Thanks you guys for allowing SGN Scoops to be at the Gospel Fest!”

The event concluded Sunday morning with a worship service with the Freemans and was thoroughly enjoyed by audience and artists alike. The Gerald Crabb Gospel Fest 2015 was an event that will be talked about and remembered for some time to come. New friends were made and lives were impacted. Everyone was sad it was over, but anticipating GCGF 2016! For more on the Gerald Crabb Gospel Fest, visit www.geraldcrabbgospelfest.com

Rob Patz, publisher of SGN Scoops thoroughly enjoyed the Gospel Music Fest. Patz says, “It was an amazing time of fellowship and worship with Gerald Crabb and all his friends. I want to personally thank Alisa Asbury and Gerald for their hospitality during the event. We’re looking forward to being back with them next year!” Vonda Easley, social media director of SGN Scoops, agreed. “Hats off to

Thanks to all photographers, including Gerald Crabb, Alisa Asbury, Vonda Easley.

NOW SCHEDULING FALL 2015!

CALL TODAY TO SECURE A DATE FOR YOUR CHURCH OR SPECIAL EVENT! CLICK ANY ARTIST TO VIEW LIVE VIDEOS & HEAR NEW MUSIC!

Reflections with

On the third year anniversary of the loss of another beloved Gospel singer, Stephen Hill, I wanted to share a tribute that I wrote at the time of his passing in 2012…

A Gentle Giant “The Good Doc,” that is what he always called me. I remember it like it was yesterday, but in actuality, it was nearly 11 years ago. In 2001, upon learning about a group of artists collectively known as The Gaithers, I attended Praise Gathering in Indianapolis, Indiana for the first time. I had never met a single artist but knew every one of them by name. I had done my homework, watched the videos, and memorized all their songs. They were my personal friends—they just didn’t know it yet.

With a 101 degree temperature and my first case of Strep throat ever, I left Upstate New York with a warm forehead and multiple body aches in search of meeting my new-found friends and telling them so! The first art-

ist I met was Mark Lowry; I could not believe I met Mr. “Mary–Did-You-Know” himself! I got an autographed book. Next, it was over to Guy Penrod. “This isn’t happening,” I thought! I was meeting the man whose voice, at the time, helped calm me to sleep every night. Shortly after that, I met Lynda Randle. Lynda never met a stranger. I shared with her my story and she immediately tugged my arm to pull me in closer, clasped her hands over mine and began to pray for me and my fever. I truly did feel better—not to mention, shed a few tears as well! I looked a few tables over and there I saw him. He was a large figure, tall, poised and seemingly mild in his mannerisms.

I immediately approached the table and said, “Hi! I am a chiropractor. I watch you on the Gaither videos and you have an awesome voice. My mother and I both like it.”

He responded, “Well thank you Doctor… what is your name?”

“Sherry Anne-- and it’s my first time hearing and seeing all of you.”

“You have an interesting accent,” he said.

“Yes, I am hearing/speech impaired. I wear two hearing aids.”

“Doctor, do you have one of my CD’s?”

“Not yet!”

“Well, here, let me get one for you. This is my newest album.” And with that, he proceeded to open up the CD case and inscribe the words, “God Bless You! Doctor, Stephen Hill.”

down on myself at the time because he sat back, looked up, calculated his words and gave me much needed fatherly advice. I don’t remember all of the conversation but I do know he was very gracious to me and I left shedding a few tears, deeply touched by his encouragement and compassion. A gentleman indeed.

A gentle giant has been slain… oh, how our Savior understands! “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5) Stephen has taken “Life’s Railway to Heaven” and joins his Savior now. A thinker, musician, teacher, husband, father and friend, I think Stephen sang it - actually wrote it - best when he penned: “He’s Such a Valuable Friend… Jesus Saves.”

Love, joy and sorrow, Sherry Anne / “The Good Doc”

Nice penmanship! I listened to the whole album and wrote him back and forth about it for a while. He appreciated my feedback. For the next 11 years, whenever I would see him, he would ever so slightly tilt his head (reminiscent of John Wayne keeping his post) and in his casual, yet, charming demeanor say, “Evening, Doctor,” to which I would (while trying my best to emulate his “coolness”) respond, “Evening, Sir,” and off I would go.

I also recall the time that I was recording a project with Woody Wright. Stephen called to talk to Woody and told his buddy to wish “the good doctor” well on her project. Thank you Stephen (and Woody)! Such true friends!

Perhaps my fondest memory, however, occurred late one night in March of 2009, on the Gaither Caribbean Cruise, after I had just finished giving a few artists some chiropractic recommendations. Stephen looked right at me with his soft, yet penetrating eyes, crooked his right index finger and signaled for me to take a seat nearby. I sat down and he proceeded to inquire about how this hearing-impaired-chiropractor-turned-Gospel-singer was doing in her musical career. I must have been a little

Read SGN Scoops On Your Kindle Check out SGNScoops.com today to see how!

Kingdom Heirs Celebrate Thirty Years

By Robert York

The Kingdom Heirs and Dollywood are celebrating 30 years together. In conjunction with this, the Kingdom Heirs have released a new CD, “Kingdom Heirs 30th Anniversary.” On this project, they have re-recorded several of their best songs over the years with the current members of the group.

The amusement park started in Pigeon Forge in 1961 as Rebel Railroad. It changed ownership in 1970 and became Gold Rush Junction. The Herschend Family purchased the park, naming it Gold Rush in 1976, but in 1977, they changed the name to Silver Dollar City. It would remain Silver Dollar City until 1986, when Dolly Parton purchased an interest in the park and it became known as Dollywood. In 2010, Dolly became more involved in the park where she makes several appearances a year.

The Kingdom Heirs began as a group in 1981 and performed as a part-time group when the park was Silver Dollar City. When Parton became involved, one of her desires was to have a full-time Southern Gospel group singing in the park, so the Kingdom Heirs then began their full-time tenure. They sing two or

three times a day, five days a week when the park is open. There have been estimations that they sing to over two million folks a year, but talking with Arthur this amount might be a little inflated, although the park welcomes over three million visitors a year.

The quartet does get time off for vacation during the year, and makes special appearances at other places, including the week of National Quartet Convention. The 30 years are now becoming history and during those years they have seen a few changes in the group.

Kreis French, owner of the group, began at the start of the group in 1981 and has continued playing bass throughout his career. Kreis also likes to tell stories during the introduction of the group and he pokes fun at himself and some of the other members of the Heirs.

Drummer Dennis Murphy was playing for The Greens and in 1990 he joined the Kingdom Heirs. Dennis is somewhat a comic himself. He opens the program telling stories and does a product pitch before the

performance begins.

The year 1995 brought lead singer Arthur Rice to the group from The Kingsmen Quartet. Arthur has been nominated numerous times for favorite male vocalist and favorite lead singer. He assumes the duties of emcee during the program.

Jeff Chapman, bass singer, had always wanted to be a part of the Kingdom Heirs and had told them when he was with the Anchormen that one day he would be singing bass for the Heirs. This came about in 2002 when the group was in search of a bass singer. Jeff, being a Georgia native has that true low bass tone that folks just love.

this down to three and each of them tried out for a weekend during the first three weeks Dollywood this season. Brian Alvey, who became popular with Tribute Quartet as well as others, was the chosen baritone singer. He has now been with them for a little over three months.

Jerry Martin became current tenor with the group in 2011. Jerry had previously sung with The Kingsmen and Dove Brothers. Jerry is known for his signature song, “I Can Pray,” and does it almost every day during one of the performances.

During the off-season at Dollywood, the Kingdom Heirs hit the road to bring their music to audiences across the nation. You can keep up with their touring as well as Dollywood schedule at their website: www. kingdomheirs.com.​ Great piano players are hard to find, but in 2007 the Heirs needed to find one that could handle the position. They found a young graduate from Tennessee who had played drums in the ‘Pride Of Tennessee Marching Band,’ and could also tear the keys off a piano. Andy Stringfield was hired as the new piano player. In the latter part of last year, they needed to replace a baritone and Andy who had sung occasionally in the programs with them, took on the duel role of piano and baritone for the group.

sarah.........piano anna grace........fiddle kiley........guitar

country gospel at its purest www.highroadmusic.com

Andy filled in this dual position during the audition process for a baritone where they had 60 applicants try out for the position. The group narrowed

For booking information 615.568.4866 highroad3@168management.com

Find us on

August 2015 This chart was compiled from a list of reporting stations. Each month we will be adding more stations.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

Karen Peck and New River Williamsons Tim Livingston Greater Vision Brian Free/Assurance Freemans Hyssongs New Vision Browders Kingsmen Barry Rowland/Deliverance Kingdom Heirs Big Mo Bowling Family Great Day Terry Collins Shellem Cline His Mercies Georgia Changed 4 11th Hour Legacy Five Jeff and Sheri Easter Tribute Eighth Day Meadow Lane Richie Rose Joseph Habedank Gold City

Pray Now Shout More Than Enough Put Out The Fire Where There's A Will He Has A Way Unwanted Crowns Lead Me To The Rock All Things Are Possible Time Machine Battle Cry Our Third Day Just Preach It One That's What I Miss The Most Great Day In The Morning I Need To Pray Halfway Down The Aisle Pray My Way Through That's Why I Love Him So I'm A Believer Jesus Is In The House Who Is This Man Jesus Loves You I Will Rise He Is Mine Praise The Lord Walk With My Jesus The Beauty Of The Blood Power Of The Cross

30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 66 66 69 70 71 72

Rachel Taylor Sunday Drive Mark Trammell Quartet Zane and Donna King Lore Family Sounds Of Victory Calebs Crossing Bev McCann Bowling Family Campbell and Rowley Ivan Parker Watts, Rowsey and Bean Chosen Vessels Higher Ground Debra Perry and Jaiden's Call Jay Parrack and Vocal Event Guardians Pruitt Family Abby Paskvan McKameys Mark Bishop LeFevre Quartet Gaither Vocal Band Lori Jonathan Trio Bledsoes Erwins Booth Brothers Akins Jim Sheldon Jones Collingsworth Family Bama Blue Grace Conners Wilburn and Wilburn Triumphant Talleys Porter Family Butler Hughes and Hayes Rita Broyles David Haynes Gordon Mote His Heart Quartet Doug Hudson

Live Loud American Heroes God's Been Faithful Anything The Only Way Out Is Through You're Always There Raised On Amazing Grace I've Seen What God Can Do One Glorious Moment Of Faith There's Still A Cross God's In The Middle Of It Faith He Outstretched His Arms For Me A Hill A Cross A Place Called Calvary He's All The World To Me Sometimes He Whispers Somebody Prays Bring It All To Jesus Only The Blood I Have A Home He Can See My Tomorrow He Left No Stone Unturned Jesus Gave Me Water No One Ever Loved Me Like Jesus Sin Met Grace I Choose To Be A Christian Touch Of The Master's Hand Arise My Love I'm Going Home You Made My Day It Matters To The Master He Arose He's Always There Nobody Like Jesus Living In Harmony Great Is Thy Faithfulness Christian Marriage Supper New Journey Home One More Mile The Other Side Sailing Safely In If They Could See Us Now

73 74 74 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 86 87 87 88 88 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 100

Carolina Boys Grace Will Be There Shane Ferrell There Is A Peace Purpose Quartet Under Grace Red Roots Beautiful Storm Three Bridges When God Does the Doin' Perrys When He Comes Walking On The Water Amber Nelon Thompson Another Time Another Place Jim Brady Trio Steppin' Out In Faith Conners The Field Of Blood Jordan Amburn and Adoration It's Been Heaven Ever Since Dunaways Mercy Built A Bridge Mylon Hayes Family The Sweetest Words He Ever Said McCray Dove Band They Wouldn't Forgive Me Jeff and Sheri Easter Anything But Happy Tim Menzies I Was There Lakeside Going Up Austin and Ethan Whisnant 1+2+3 Nelons Do Unto Others Lear Family I Didn't Come Here To Stay Whisnants Glorybound Soul Purpose Quartet Bought With A Price Faith Under Fire Jesus Christ, My Redeemer Shellem Cline That Saving Song Bledsoes I'm Glad I'm Saved Talleys What You Leave Behind Kali Rose God's Will Roger Barkley Jr I'm From The U.S. Of A. Josh And Ashley Franks You Got What I Deserved

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We’re All Human

By Dr. Jeff Steele

In John 8, we read the story of a woman caught in the act of adultery. The Scribes and Pharisees brought her to the temple/church and threw her down at the feet of Jesus. Verse 4 points out that she was caught in the ‘very act’. The only reason I mention this is because that phrase points out the absolute fact that she was guilty. I would never come here and try to argue her innocence. Her accusers were right and she was wrong! The law said she was to die by stoning. These guys were out to ‘get’ Jesus and they thought they had the plan that would doom His ministry as Messiah for good.

Since the lady was guilty and they had her, as Barney Fife would say, ‘dead to right,’ they thought Jesus had no choice! He would not only have to condone her stoning death but would probably have to participate in it as well. Here is this lady, probably dressed in nothing but the sheet she was laying on when she was nabbed. She is naked, exposed, embarrassed and most of all, as guilty as sin. The accusers are gathered thinking they have Jesus now, because the law is clear on this matter. Adultery equals death by stoning. To be in keeping with the law, He has to do it their way, which would repudiate his ‘teachings’ and make Him out to be a phony in front of the masses.

The only problem in their plan was that Jesus did have a choice and He brought it up. I can keep the law to the letter and stone her or I can love her and tell her how to fix this mess. You know what? We have the

same choice.

In my life there have been plenty of times when I messed up and deserved the condemnation that came with rightly prescribed judgment. I did the crime and it was my place to do the time. A lot of people gathered around and passed their judgment against me.

It was their right to do just that because I had messed up.

But you know what? As many as there were, I can’t and don’t remember a single one of their faces.

If they were to walk in the room right now and produce their driver’s license that told me their name, I wouldn’t know who they were. I’m serious.

You know who I remember and can never forget? The people who at the time when it was their right to judge and condemn me, instead put their arms around me and said, “I love you Jeff. I know you’ve done wrong but how do we fix this?”

I’m not talking about justifying mistakes or condoning bad behavior. I’m talking about a choice and we all have it to make. Condemn or love. Beat down or lift up. Death or life. When Jesus had that choice, He said to the woman ‘caught in the act:’ “Neither do I condemn you, go and sin no more.”

What’s your choice?

Mercy’s

Bridge One thing about traveling with 11th Hour that I enjoy is meeting and hearing new groups. That is definitely the case with hearing this trio! Mercy’s Bridge is sure to become a fan favorite for all who come in contact with them. The independent labeled trio is based out of London, KY. Its members consist of Josh Patton, Tish Crouch and Jackie Lamb. Together, these dynamic vocalists make an unforgettable sound.

In 2012, after the three friends had dinner one

By Jaquita Lindsey night, something began to stir among them. “We began sharing our ministry goals and what each of us wanted to accomplish for the Lord. We decided to get together and sing a few songs. Honestly, without too much else, it just seemed to fit,” says group manager Josh. “We all took time to really pray about the idea of starting a ministry. We then reconnected about the idea and realized the three of us shared the same vision.” So with that, Mercy’s Bridge was born.

Mercy’s Bridge had their first charted song in 2013 with the single “Knocking on Heavens Door” off of their project Hold On To You. Their newly recorded album entitled, Road Less Traveled, was released in June 2015. Produced by Ricky Free and Angie Hoskins, the project features 11 tracks from writers such as Gerald Crabb and Lee Black, as well as original music written by Josh and Jackie. The first release, “Good

Place To Turn Around,” has producer Angie Hoskins as a special guest. “The album has been more than a year in the making and is very personal to us,” Jackie tells us. “It has songs that deal with loss, overcoming depression, songs that speak of Heaven and that minister to everyday life that we all experience. We are very excited about it!”

The group’s lead singer, Josh, began singing at age five. He was the worship leader of his church for 11 years before Mercy’s Bridge was formed. When not on the road, he serves as a branch manager for a financial company. Josh is also a photographer on the side, although his first passion is definitely music. “We all get weary trying to fit everything in and make life balance. But I want to fulfill the calling on my life. I love seeing the power of God move in people’s lives. I am so humbled that God uses someone like me to accomplish His work,” says Josh. “I also want to leave a legacy for my kids. My son told me the other day he wants to sing for Jesus like me when he grows up. That meant the world to me! My daughter sings with me from time to time. Seeing my kids develop a desire for ministry is so rewarding!”

The soprano vocalist for the group, Tish, makes her home in Danville, KY. She began singing at age six and traveled with a family group, Determined. Tish has found women such as Karen Peck, Taranda Greene and Sonya Isaacs to be very influential. Tish notes, “Knowing that I have the opportunity to sow into the lives of others means everything to me. There are moments when I want to give up but I am very quickly reminded of the souls that have been reached through this ministry.” She stays busy while off the road by caring for special needs children, as well as her own kids.

Tish and I have something in common: odd names. “My real name is Laticia. It gets mispronounced all the time!” Tish laughs. She had this funny story to share: “Back last year, a friend of Josh’s asked how the group had been doing. She asked about Jackie, the new record, then asked how ‘Lafonda’ was doing. Mind you, my name gets all kinds of interpretations! This was no surprise. But Josh and Jackie decided to run with it.

Later on, at a church, the boys told the pastor that my name was Lafonda. When the pastor introduced us, he says, ‘Let’s welcome Josh, Jackie and Lafonda!’ To this day, everywhere we go, they tell people my name is Lafonda. I have given up on anyone ever knowing my correct name,” she laughs.

Jackie was a member of the George Amon Webster Trio and Heirline before becoming a founding member of Mercy’s Bridge. Outside of singing, he

who are struggling and say, ‘I’ve been where you are and this is how God brought me through.’”

“Just like everyone else, we have dreams of reaching certain milestones and accolades within the music world,” says Josh. “But none of that is a driving force for us. We are nothing if we are not real. Each one of us has overcome abuse, depression, loss, and various pains personally. We believe that God allowed the hardships to further prepare us for ministry. We are not interested in entertaining. Our future goals are simple and that is to reach as many people for Christ as possible.”

works in the insurance field, working with healthcare benefits. Some of his hobbies include songwriting, recording and producing music and movies. Jackie tells us, “Since I was kid, I have had a desire to use my abilities to reach people for the Lord. Seeing the power of God move while we sing is the most rewarding thing to me. I’ve overcome many things in my lifetime. I have the keen understanding that God allowed me to go through those trials to help others. I can look at those Josh hopes to see other forms of ministry branch off from the music. He desires to work with victims of abuse, who suffer from the strongholds that come with it. Tish has a vision for a women’s ministry facility. Jackie would also love to be multi-faceted with an outreach for missions. They believe we are seeing last day prophecy being fulfilled and want to be as effective as possible.

Sounds like this trio will go places, allowing God to lead their way! Keep an ear out this fall for “Good Place To Turn Around,” by Mercy’s Bridge. For more on this fantastic trio, visit their website at www. mercysbridgetrio.net.

“Choose Life” Spiritual Shorthand for the Busy Christian

By Laurette Willis, CHC

“I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live” Deuteronomy 30:19(KJV) What’s one of the quickest ways to experience positive change in our lives? Choose life. How about for weight management, fitness and vibrant health? Yes, the “choose life” decision can be made in a minute and lived moment-by-moment one day at a time. Choose life.

How can a scripture and spiritual directive to “choose life” assist us in our goals to be fit witnesses spiritually and physically? As busy people, we need some practical, proactive tools we can use at a moment’s notice to help us handle decisions, challenges and temptations.

I have found these two simple, yet startlingly powerful words have kept me from falling prey to sudden urges for “just one” (bite, cookie, candy bar, soda, binge or foray into Debtsville). You may be different, but for me “just one” rarely ends with just one.

Whenever I simply stop and say to myself, “I choose life,” my spirit (the real me) rises up with strength to overcome the flesh and I’m suddenly able to say “No” to the temptation.

These two potent little words from scripture can also help us get moving when our flesh wants to veg out in front of the television or skip the fitness break we’ve committed to taking that day.

“I choose life,” I’d say as I laced my running shoes and headed for the door or mini-trampoline.

“Choose life,” I’d say to myself when I wanted to pout and “punish” my husband for hurting my feel-

ings instead of forgiving him. Choosing to follow those two little words would often turn the whole situation around.

What IS “Life”?

Jesus said His words are life. “The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life,” He said in John 6:63.

Is “choose life” some sort of “magic incantation” or “lucky charm”? No, certainly not! Both magic and luck are part of the enemy’s bag of tricks. When you have the blessing and favor of God through your relationship with Jesus Christ, you want nothing to do with capricious fortune, magic or luck. God’s promises are based on truth, not happenstance.

When you meditate on and speak God’s words, you are being “transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). As your mind is renewed on the Word of God, you will be transformed, and part of that transformation process relates to the choices and decisions you make.

We are presented with hundreds, even thousands of choices every day, which affect the health, and fitness of our spirit, soul and body. How well I know the cry of the flesh, “I want it and I want it NOW!” I had to have my favorite snack, drink, a second helping--my “fix.” Like a child, I thought only of the desire of the present moment and wanted to have my way. Let the grown-ups deal with the consequences. It didn’t matter how strong my will power had been or how solid I thought my commitment was, my flesh would scream and I’d cave in like a startled soufflé.

“Choose life.” Again and again those words would come to me. I’d be faced with a temptation to forgo my food plan for the day, or neglect the exercise I’d purposed to do and the words would come to me: “Choose life.” I’d want to blow off a commitment I’d made, or stay in bed instead of getting up early to invest in my relationship with the Lord, and the words would come to me, “Choose life.”

A third-party report (i.e. gossip) would come to me and I’d want to share the “news” -- then I’d hear the words in my heart, “Choose life” calling me to make a godly choice.

To choose life is to choose God’s way of doing things. Can we override the gentle nudge of the Spirit of God bringing His Word to our remembrance? Yes. The Lord’s still, small voice doesn’t come with a twoby-four to enforce compliance. While we may try “reasoning” or bargaining with the Lord, the more time we invest in reading, meditating and speaking His Word, the more we will want to heed His gentle reminder to “Choose LIFE” -- it IS the secret weapon for the Busy Christian.

(Adapted from The Busy Woman’s Guide to Total Fitness by Laurette Willis, Harvest House Publishers) available at www.PraiseMoves.com .

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YOUNGErPERSPECTIVE Kaila Wisecarver

BY ERIN STEVENS It’s always fun meeting new people in our great and growing industry! Although I typically choose my Younger Perspective interviewees from among my roadie friends, this month I decided to broaden my horizons and bring a new friend into the spotlight. Whether you’ve heard her before or you’re just getting acquainted today, I’d like to introduce the sweet and talented Kaila, of The Wisecarvers to our SGN Scoops audience.

Welcome, Kaila…

Erin: For those who are meeting you for the first time, give the readers a glimpse into how you began singing, along with joining your husband’s family group.

Kaila: I have always loved to sing…just not in front of anyone! My mom’s family traveled and held revivals and concerts in the ‘70’s and ‘80’s, so music has always been a huge part of our lives. I sang for the first time at the church my dad pastored when I was about 11 years old. I cried my eyes out and my mom stood with her arms around me through the whole song! But, the more I sang, the Lord gave me grace and it became easier.

When I was 12, I started feeling the Lord was calling me to minister through music.

In 2004 my aunt, Sylvia Green with The Bradys, needed someone to fill in for her for a few weeks. I was 13 at the time and was ecstatic to have the opportunity.

So, I filled in for her, but when my aunt was able to come back, The Bradys graciously asked me to stay on to play bass and sing. I was with them for seven years until, in 2011, I married Dustin Wisecarver and moved to TN and began singing with his family. We saw each other for the first time in 2007 at an awards show while I was still with The Bradys. Little did I know that my future husband was right there in the same room with

me!

Erin: What was life like growing up as an only child in Dothan, AL? Kaila: It was a great place to grow up! A large enough city that you had plenty of choices for shopping and eating, but you could drive just a few minutes out of town and be in the middle of a peanut field. Where my grandparents lived was full of dirt roads, backyard

Iponds, and front porch swings. I still love going to visit them. Growing up without siblings was lonely at times, but I had cousins and friends that helped to fill those roles in my life. And hey, I never had to wonder who my parents’ favorite was!

Erin: When did you discover your gift and love of songwriting?

Kaila: I think I was 12 when I wrote my first serious song and sang it to my parents. After that, I would get ideas here and there and write them down. As I got older, the songs started coming together more and taking shape. It is such a privilege when God allows you to write a song. You can just sense His presence so closely! Songwriting is an opportunity that God gives us to pen down something He has to say.

Erin: Is there a defining moment in your life that you look back on as something that has shaped the very person you are today?

Kaila: So many moments! Over and over again God has answered prayers and reminded me of His faithfulness.

I guess the ones that stand out the most to me are the moments when you know God has spoken to someone else about a situation that you have spoken to Him ONLY about. When God sends encouragement through someone else, and He’s the only one that knew you were discouraged, that’s a big moment!

Erin: Ok, if it were your last day on earth, what meal would you HAVE to have?

Kaila: Chinese! I could eat it every day. Literally!

Erin: Favorite aspect vs. least favorite aspect of travel-

ing the road with family?

Kaila: Favorite aspect: Never having to leave someone behind! I get to travel with my husband everywhere we go and that makes being on the road so much easier.

Oh, and being able to have practice sessions or group meetings while wearing pajamas! Least favorite aspect: Waking up to your brother-in-law throwing crackers at you from across the bus. No, I’m totally not kidding!

That’s really something else that I love about traveling as a family; we get to pick on each other all weekend long.

Erin: Purple or blue? Summer or winter? Beach vacation or cabin in the woods? Coffee or tea?

Romance or comedy movies? Board games or books?

Kaila: Blue. Summer. That’s tough…can I get a cabin by a lake? Tea. Both please! Books.

Erin: Who have been your biggest musical inspirations?

Kaila: Kenny Hinson was probably my biggest musical inspiration. I adore his voice. I also love listening to Selah, Steven Curtis Chapman, The Singing Cookes, Ron David Moore, Michael English – and the list could go on.

Erin: Is there a foreign country where you’d like to someday share the Gospel?

Kaila: Anywhere I possibly can. I’d love to visit multiple countries and share music and ministry. If I had to pick just one, Ireland would probably be at the top of the list!

Erin: I noticed The Wisecarvers are heading back into the studio this month. What can we expect on this new CD? Kaila: We are excited about this new album. Recording is always a blast and we enjoy getting to hear the music come to life. God blessed me to marry into a family of great writers. Everyone brings something to the table and we work together and try to make each song the best it can be. We included 12 of those songs on this project. We are praying the anointing will be felt in each one.

It is always a joy to work with the folks at Crossroads.

They have been so supportive of our music and brought this project together even better than we had hoped.

We sang a couple of the songs while we were out on the weekends, and were overjoyed at the way the Lord allowed them to minister. That is truly what makes us excited about a new album, to see people respond

because their hearts and lives have been touched. There are songs of encouragement, songs about real life, and most importantly, songs about how to get to know this Jesus we sing about.

Erin: While being influenced by social media pressure everyday, how would you encourage the younger generation in their walk with the Lord?

Kaila: Don’t let it consume you. Lay down the phone, put the tablet on sleep mode, unplug the laptop. Spend time in the here and now. Don’t get me wrong; I enjoy Facebook and Instagram just as much as the next person, but it’s so easy to lose focus on what’s around you while being consumed by people and things we don’t really know anything about. If the Lord tarries, years from now, all of those things won’t matter. What will matter is the time put into your relationship with God and with those around you.

Another thing that I think is so important is to realize that no one is perfect. It’s easy to look at someone’s pictures or posts and think that they have it all figured out. We see who we think they are and automatically measure ourselves up to what we see. It’s easy to make everything seem perfect on a Facebook post. Everyone has things in their life they wish were different, things that aren’t going perfectly. Be the best person you can be, love God with all your heart, serve Him with every-

thing you have, and know that when He looks at you He sees the blood of the Lamb. He sees perfection. And that is real perfection.

I couldn’t have said it better myself! What we really need are more young women like Kaila, who are willing to take a bold stand on issues and speak from the heart. Will you be an example worth following to those watching your life? Let’s put the phones down and start looking up so we can live the life God created us for.

Because at the end of the day, we have one purpose to fulfill, and that is bringing all glory, honor and praise to our Heavenly Father. Thanks for sharing with us, Kaila!

Until next month, Scoops fans…

And that’s my take on it.

(Connect with Erin, your Younger Perspective writer, on Twitter: @photosforkeeps & Instagram: @photos_for_keeps. Who would you like to see her interview next??)

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High Notes

By Kelly Nelon Clark

I was checking out at Walmart today and noticed the cashier being a bit rude with the customer before me. When it was my turn the same thing happened and maybe a little worse. She was snapping at me to get my items off of the baggage area and into my cart.

My flesh started to take over and say something, but all of a sudden I had the thought to give her kindness instead.

I started getting my things off and I looked at her and said, “How are you doing today?” She looked at me and replied, “Not good.”

I said, “Can I help you in any way?

You seem to be a little preoccupied.” I saw her countenance change.

She said, “My mother is 81 and having surgery tomorrow. I am so worried about her. I can’t think clearly today and I’m short tempered.” She began to tell me of what her mom was going through.

I said, “It’s understandable that your mind and emotions are with your mom.” I told her that maybe God put me in her line to let her know that someone cares. That He especially cares. I told her I would be praying for her and her mom.

In just a minute I could have chosen to do the wrong thing. Lord knows I’m not perfect and don’t always make the right choices but I’m thankful for the Holy Spirit who guides when we choose to listen.

Contributors SGN SCOOPS

Rob Patz is the President and CEO of Coastal Media Group.

Rob has an 18 year history in radio hosting the nationally syndicated radio show, “The Southern Styles Show” since its beginning in 1993. Rob is also the owner of the internet’s #1 Southern Gospel station, SGMRadio.com. In 2009, Rob Patz acquired SGNScoops.com, including the all- digital Scoops Magazine and the Diamond Awards. Rob has taken part in several Christian television projects working in front of the camera and also has helped create several syndicated television programs as well. Rob does voice work for various outlets including fortune 500 companies as well as emceeing concerts and special events. Email Rob at rob@sgnscoops. com.

Lou Wills Hildreth appears on the Gaither Homecoming Videos, and is a founding member of Texas First Family Of Gospel Music, the “Singing Wills Family.”

She helped pioneer Christian television as host of “Wills Family Inspirational TV.” After moving to Nashville in the sixties, she was the first woman to own an artist management agency. Lou is an inductee of the Texas Gospel Music Hall Of Fame, GMA Gospel Music Hall Of Fame, SGMA Hall Of Fame at Dollywood, and the Christian Music Hall Of Fame. She is a recipient of an Honorary Doctorate Of Sacred Music from Louisiana Baptist University. Recently, Gaither Homecoming Magazine named Lou in the “Hall Of Honor” series, and the Southern Gospel Music Guild gave her a “Lifetime Achievement Award.” Lou is celebrating a 65th wedding anniversary in 2011 with Howard, and they live in Houston near son Dr. David Hildreth and daughter Kathryn Mumaw, and 4 grandchildren. Visit Lou at: http://louhildreth.com Christian Health & Fitness Expert Laurette Willis is an author with Harvest House Publishers, and the Director of PraiseMoves Fitness Ministry with DVDs, a training program and PraiseMoves

Instructors on four continents (http://PraiseMoves. com , on Facebook http://on.fb.me/PraiseMoves.

Laurette invites readers to get started on the road to better health and fitness for spirit, soul and body.

For a free, easy- to- follow 21 day program visit: http://ChristianFitnessKit.com Stephanie Kelley is a public speaker and owner of QueenO-Q, a blog featuring coupon match-ups, freebies, samples and information on frugal living. She is married, has three children and lives in Washington State. Queenoq.blogspot.com

Canadian-born Lorraine Walker has a love for Jesus Christ, music and writing. The combination of these passions has produced artist features and monthly columns for Southern Gospel publications including SGM Radio website and SGN Scoops Digital magazine. Lorraine desires that the power of the written word will glorify her Lord and bring readers closer to the love, peace and majesty of the Almighty.

Email Lorraine at lorraine@sgnscoops.com Jennifer Campbell is a singer, songwriter, musician, and middle school English teacher from McAlpin, Florida. Along with her passion for teaching, she has an even greater passion for ministering to others, sharing her testimony of how she was born lifeless and how Jesus raised her up to live for Him. Jennifer is a member of the Florida Worship Choir and Orchestra and has performed with them at Brooklyn Tabernacle, Carnegie Hall, Central Park, and Times Square. She serves as a group leader for Women of Faith, designs websites, and writes an inspirational blog at http://jennifercampbell.net/blog.htm and a food and travel blog at http://jennifersjourneys.net Learn more about Jennifer at http://jennifercampbell.net and www.christwillreturn.org.

Contributors SGN SCOOPS

Dusty Wells is a man of many talents and multiple skills, from his speaking engagements across the country, to traveling and encouraging various artists in the Christian music genres.

Dusty has a passion that is evident from the moment you meet him.

Dusty is a man who remains passionate and secure in the calling and destiny upon his life. He has come to realize the importance of finding purpose and clear direction for not only his life, but also the lives of those he comes in contact with, no matter what stage of life they may be in.

Growing up in a very dysfunctional home, surrounded by all types of abuse, Dusty had every excuse to be a failure in life. He grew up on welfare, having to steal his daily necessities of life at times, being surrounded by drugs, alcohol and pornography. He was raised by a mother who was married multiple times, living in a housing project on the wrong side of town. But in the midst of what seemed to be complete devastation, God had different plans of success for Dusty. At the age of 14, a precious couple took time out of their own lives to invest in Dusty…thus leading Him to the Lord. His life is a testimony of God’s relentless love and deliverance, and is one of the most triumphant stories told in modern Christianity. Dusty is confident in the fact that if God can do it for him, He can do it for anyone, no matter the situation.

Dusty and his wife of 33 years have four children, and two grandbabies with one more on the way. They make their home in Nashville, Tn. Joan Walker grew up with music in the house and first heard Southern Gospel in her early teens. With almost a quirky (some may say ‘weird’) need to make sure words are spelled correctly and the apostrophes are in the right place, she enjoys proofreading the articles for the SGN Scoops magazine each month...and looks beyond the letters and commas to the wonderful words each writer has written. Joan counts it as a blessing in her life to be part of SGN Scoops!

Pete Schwager is a web developer and graphic designer with a passion for Christ. He was born in Santa Rosa, California and moved to Oregon where he spent most of his life. He now lives in the quiet town of Ringgold, Georgia and enjoys living in the country with his family.

You can find him online at http://peteschwager.com

Staci Schwager helps with marketing and communication with her husband’s web design company, Cre8able Media. Together they make a great team! Staci being the “talkative” one, loves being able to communicate one on one with clients and organizing ideas. While Pete on the other hand is diving into the design and coding aspects to make the real masterpiece!

Most of Staci’s days are filled with preparing homeschool lessons for her kids, couponing, gardening, tending to her chicken flock and spending as much time on the beautiful, country land God has blessed them with.

My name is Tina Wakefield and I am currently Music Minister for Amazing Grace Worship Center in Alabaster, Al. I have led worship for over 18 years as well as teach adults how to live everyday life in Victory as a Christian. I enjoy playing and singing Gospel Music whenever and wherever I am invited. I currently have three Cd s available on my website at www.tinawakefield.com and just released my first music video with Godsey & Associates called,” The Choice” available on YouTube. I write a lot of the music we sing at church and also record my original songs. My family is very ministry oriented with Pastors, Teachers, Musicians, and Singers. My heart’s desire is to spread the gospel of Christ through any and all open doors that I receive.

Contributors SGN SCOOPS

Dr. Jeff R. Steele is a pastor, conference speaker, singer, songwriter, husband, father, grandfather and friend. He is currently the Senior Pastor at Faith Baptist Church in Cullman, Alabama. Their services are webcast worldwide; they have a weekly television program and host an annual Jubilee each August that attracts hundreds from around the southeast. Dr. Steele is beginning his eighth year there. As a songwriter Jeff has been credited with 17 Number One songs in Christian music as well as four BMI Gold Medals for Great National Popularity as measured by Broadcast Performances. He has also been recognized by BMI as Christian Songwriter of the Year on several occasions.

The group, The Steeles was featured across the nation and was seen on numerous magazine covers, feature articles, television and radio programs during their ministry on the road. Jeff is still writes songs and articles, sings on occasion and speaks in conferences and revivals. Jeff is married to Sherry, his wife of 31 years and they have three grown children. Visit Jeff on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and at www. jeffrsteele.com.

Erin Stevens is a uniquely talented shutterbug, singer, guitar player, writer, blogger, and social networker.

She is the owner/operator of Photos For Keeps By Erin. Along with running her own business, she is the official photographer for Abraham Productions (API). You will find her behind the lens at all API events, along with working behind the scenes on their social media. She also travels full-time on the road with her family’s gospel group, The Stevens Family. Photography is her passion and singing for Jesus is her calling. For several years, you have known her as our very own “Younger Perspective” writer. Check out her photography website www.photosforkeepsbyerin.com and her ministry website www.stevensfamilymusic.com.

Sherry Anne Lints, a Doctor of Chiropractic, singer, speaker, actress, writer and fitness trainer, was born with a bilateral hearing and speech impairment. She appeared in the films, Clancy and The Perfect Gift and was a special guest on 100 Huntley Street, in Ontario, Canada.

She is a contributing author for the book, Modern-Day Miracles and released her second CD, Keep on Prayin’, July 2012 and has

opened for many of the Gaither Homecoming Artists. Additionally, Sherry Anne helps lead worship and drama at her church. For more information, visit: www.SherryAnne.com.

Vonda Easley is the owner of Hope’s Journey Christian Ministries and the voice of “The Strictly Southern Show” at WPIL 91.7 in Heflin, Alabama on Fridays

Vivian is the marketing manager at KKGM in Dallas/Fort Worth Texas, as well as hosting a program on Sundays where she features national, regional as well as local artists. She also brings news of upcoming concert events in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex and surrounding area. Vivian has promoted various artists in this area for over 10 years beginning with Phil Cross and Poet Voices and later Sharron Kay King and Jerry Bennett to name a few. She has spent the past several years promoting Southern Gospel, Inspirational Country Gospel and Bluegrass in this area in order to preserve this part of our heritage.

Jonathan Edwards began his radio career on KWFC 89.1 FM in Springfield, Mo. At KWFC he worked in news, sales and was an on air personality, creating the very popular Ozark Gospel Showcase. He has been nominated for two Singing News Fan Awards and garnered the coveted Paul Heil Award from the 2012 Diamond Awards. He travels full time with Faith’s Journey and currently hosts the syndicated radio show SGN Scoops Radio.

Contributors SGN SCOOPS

After graduating from Middle Tennessee State University with a Mass Communication degree, Craig Harris has been in the journalism field for more than 15 years, working daily as both a photographer and writer at one of the largest non-daily publications in the state of Tennessee. He has experience in feature writing, news writing, action photography, portrait photography, web-site maintenance and layout. Craig has been a part of numerous awards, both collective and individual honors in the journalism field. He has had articles published in numerous newspapers and magazines on a variety of subjects, most notably in the world of sports.

Craig’s Southern Gospel interest dates back for approximately the same time span, having closely followed the industry since the later portion of the 1990s. He also performed for seven years with a local trio prior to joining the SGN Scoops staff.

David’s distinctive sound and his ability to blend perfectly with a variety of vocalists has made him a valuable commodity on live events as well as in the studio. His compassionate and gentle spirit makes him more than an artist, it makes him a great friend!

David began singing at age 6 with family. In 1990, he filled in for the Speer Family and later that year he became the lead vocalist for The Trailblazers. In 2002, Staton filled the lead position with Priority. While with Priority, the group was the resident gospel group at the Silver Dollar City theme park in Branson, MO and they performed for over one million people in one year. After the group disbanded in 1995, David continued to write for artists in many different genres of music while occasionally performing solo. It was during this time that his song, “Every Knee Shall Bow”, recorded by Dottie Peoples, was nominated for a Grammy Award. His song, “Together We Can” was adopted as the national theme song to bring awareness to violence in schools. The music video (Together We Can) that featured many Atlanta based artists was shown at the 1999 Grammy Awards show, which helped launch the careers of artists like R&B’s Jagged Edge, India Arie, and 4.0. In 2004, David partnered with Mike LeFevre to form The LeFevre Quartet. During the seven years that he was the lead vocalist, the group had many hit songs and won many awards. After leaving the LeFevre

Quartet in 2011, Staton began working on a solo project and also began singing with Palmetto State Quartet. The group appeared on television and toured with country music superstar, Wynonna Judd while Staton was there.

Through the years, artists like Gold City, Jeff & Sheri Easter, Kingsmen, Singing Americans, Dixie Melody Boys, Imperials, Dottie Peoples, Ball Brothers, LeFevre Quartet, Palmetto State Quartet, Priority, Trailblazers, The Greenes, Ivan Parker, Brian Free and many more have recorded David’s music.

From 2005 to 2013, Staton was the Executive Vice President for Song Garden Music Group in Nashville, TN. In recent years, the National Quartet Convention has asked David to be a part of an industry advisory panel to help artists who need assistance and training. Not only has David made a mark as an artist, he is passing on his talent and knowledge to new artists, influencing and shaping the future of Gospel music.

Kelly Nelon Clark is the daughter of Gospel Music icon, the late Rex Nelon.

As part of her father’s group, The Nelons, she blazed a musical trail bringing a fresh new sound to the traditional Gospel quartet style. That sound and style influenced a generation of Gospel music performers and can be heard today in the styling of groups like the Martins, Point of Grace, The Crabb Family and more.

As The Nelons broke new ground, the Gospel Music industry repeatedly recognized their excellence. The group won four GMA Dove awards as well as multiple awards from readers of Singing News Magazine. Kelly was named female vocalist of the year on four occasions and received favorite alto vocalist award 3 times. At one time, Kelly was the most awarded artists in the history of the Singing News Fan Awards. The music industry at large also recognized The Nelons with 3 Grammy nominations.

Today, Kelly currently performs throughout the United States, Canada and Europe with her husband and two daughters as The Nelons. The group is featured in hundreds of churches and concerts each year. The Nelons have been part of Gaither Homecoming concerts sharing their music with thousands of Gospel Music fans in sold-out arenas across the country. For more information, visit http:// www.kellynelon.com/.

Contributors SGN SCOOPS

Marcie Gray was born and raised in sunny California, yet always dreamed of moving to Tennessee.

She had planned to move to the south as a young adult and sing with a gospel group, after being inspired to do so by her Great Uncle, Alphus LeFevre. Though it took longer than she had expected, in 2011, her dream of moving east finally came true when her husband, Don, retired from the CHP. They packed up their two youngest daughters, three dogs and two horses and headed east. What a blessing to finally be where the tea is sweet, the Southern Gospel music is plentiful and there’s a Cracker Barrel on every corner!

Spend ten minutes with Marcie and you’ll learn that she is rarely lacking for something to say. Her passion for Southern Gospel music, combined with her instinct to be behind the camera, makes journalism a very enjoyable outlet for that “Type A” personality she has been affectionately labeled with by her family and friends.

Marcie is a worship leader, vocalist and songwriter. She has directed choirs of all ages and given voice lessons for many years. Her solo CD, “Carry Me Home” was released in September of 2014.

Having family in ministry has given Marcie a desire to support those who are on the road sharing the gospel through song. Visit her website at www.graydoveministries.com to learn more!

Lynn Mills is a talented writer who has a passion for music, specifically Gospel music. Lynn authors the site Lynn’s Chronicles where she shares her experiences attending various concert events and what people can expect should they want to attend. Also featured are CD & DVD Reviews, Devotionals, Photos, Video and News tidbits. Keep up with Lynn online at http://lynnschronicles.com or on facebook @ http://.facebook.com/lynns.chronicles

Hi, my name is Dean Adkins and I am honored to be a part of the SGN Scoops family. Perhaps some background information would be beneficial. I am sometimes called “Professor” because I was a Biology professor at Marshall University for 31 years and I retired in 2004. I grew up listening to gospel music (or as it is now termed Southern Gospel Music) and many of my relatives (Adkins, Toney, Booth families) are gospel singers/musicians. I collect records, primarily LPs, and SGM related items. Over the years I have studied the history of this genre. I would like to use these articles to describe events and the mind-set of the 1950s and 60s – sometimes called the Golden Age of Gospel Music.

Alpha Source Media Group is lead

by Candi Combs and was born out of a strong desire to support the ministers who share the gospel on the highways and byways of life.

Combs says, “These artists and their families spend their days selflessly bringing the life-changing message of Jesus to crowds large and small. We want to do all we can to support them!” In 2015, Candi will have a law degree from Liberty University and will provide a full range of legal counsel. This component will bring the highest level of support to those who also desire legal representation.

Bethany Cook is a 25-year-old medical student from the great state of North Carolina. In her early years, Bethany grew up on the road as the daughter of an evangelist. In her teen years, the family came off the road and made their home in Burlington, NC. where her father is now a pastor. Being an avid Southern Gospel fan from an early age has lead Bethany to meeting many different artists and making many friends along the way. With a history of devotional writing for family and friends, she looks forward to opening up her writing and allowing you to see a little more into the lives of Southern Gospel Music artists. Bethany is set to graduate from college in June 2015 with a degree in Medical Assisting.

Contributors SGN SCOOPS

Sheri began singing while traveling with her abundantly talented family, led by her father John LaFontaine, a minister for over 48 years. In 1994 with Grammy nominated singer Jeff Easter producing, she recorded her first solo project, Takin’ My Place.

Shortly thereafter, Sheri received a call from the top promoter in southern gospel, Frank Arnold and was asked to join his group, The Arnolds on the road. After several years of traveling Sheri felt the Lord leading her to focus on her solo career and songwriting. In 2004 she signed a songwriting contract with one of the industry’s top recording labels, Daywind Music. Her songs have been recorded by Kim Hopper, Karen Peck, Sue Dodge, Brian Free & Assurance, Misty Freeman, Three Bridges, The Whisnants, The Browns and many more.

Paige Givens is a Christ follower, wife, mother of two boys and kindergarten teacher to 18 five-yearolds. She is a writer, reader, singer, studier, and teacher of words. Paige lives in Hayden, Alabama with her husband of 10 years, Chris Givens, and their sons Parker and Peyton.

Paige loves to blog about faith, writing, music, and teaching. Her goal is to serve the Lord by inspiring others to be who He has called them to be. You can listen to her music and read her devotionals at www. paigegivens.com.

Jaquita Lindsey holds the alto position for the Southern Gospel group 11th Hour. The group was originally based out of Monroe, LA but recently relocated to Hendersonville, TN. She comes from the small town of Camden, AR. She is also a licensed cosmetologist. In her spare time, she enjoys being crafty and spending time with family and friends. She’s been singing since the age of eight, but realizes that it’s much more than just singing. “Anyone can show off their talent. I’d rather hear someone that shows that they are anointed!” For more information on Jaquita, visit 11thhourgospelgroup.com

Matt Baker resides in Lenoir, NC with his wife, Ashley, and children, Bella and Bennett. A gospel music lover, Matt spent time on the road full-time with Promise of Murfreesboro, TN, before moving into church ministry as the music minister at Ambassador Baptist Church in Hudson, NC.

Justin Gilmore, 22, a resident of San Diego, California, graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University with a B.A. in History in June of 2014. Passionate about Southern Gospel music and its history, he decided to venture into the blog world in January starting Southern Gospel Spotlight in order to share his love of this great style of music.

Hello, I’m Randall Hamm, Gospel Program Director of WFLQ French Lick Indiana, host of the Sunday Morning Gospel Show for the past 20 years on WFLQ French Lick Indiana and Singing News Top 10 Small Market DJ for the past three years. I now add something new to my resume! Record Reviewer, ok…

CD Reviewer. I’m Old School, having started in the days of LP’s, 45’s and Reel to Reel along with cassettes as the main form of music played. If you’d like to listen to my program, you can visit https://www.facebook. com/TheSundayMorningGospelShow and listen to archived programs, plus I post various Southern Gospel news updates, uplifting music and Gospel-related items. If you’re in the six-county area around French Lick Indiana, in the heart of Southern Indiana, tune in every Sunday 6:00am-12:00pm and listen to the Gospel Greats with Paul Heil, 6:00am to 8:00am and the Sunday Morning Gospel Show with Randall Hamm 8:00am to 12:00pm.

Contributors SGN SCOOPS

Brian Fuson is from the great state of Michigan, and although he is a Northerner, he certainly knows his Gospel music. He’s been promoting concerts since he was 15-years-old and has worked with a diverse group of artists. He has been blogging about Southern Gospel music for the last few years on his site called Fuson’s Findings. And most recently, Brian has started singing with his wife Crysta and her parents, The Sammons Family. All of this information and more can be found on his website, brianfusonmusic.com.