It has been reported that David Phelps is leaving the Gaither Vocal Band to pursue a solo career. His new solo album, Life is a Church, is slated for a September 27 release date.
According to a recent statement by Phelps, "I called up Bill about a month ago and asked if he would meet me at Starbucks to talk. I started to tell him and he finished my sentence for me. I guess he knew it was coming, too. Truth be told, I have been praying for whomever will take my place. It is never a fun transition. Bill was very gracious, of course, and has wished me well. We are all too close for it to be over…it will just be different."
Also, this past weekend, Birmingham, Alabama resident Wes Hampton sang the tenor part for the Gaither Vocal Band. Gaither apparently introduced Hampton as someone being "carefully considered" for the vacant spot with GVB.
According to internet research, Hampton is presently a worship leader with The Church At Brook Hills in Birmingham.
(Thanks to SGLive Show Prep for the information)
Ads Sponsored by Southern Spin
Wow!!! I went to college with Wes at UAB (University of Alabama-Birmingham). He's a phenomenal singer and a great guy. Good luck, buddy!!!
I know Wes personally, and as AWESOME as the singer that he is, his heart is even GREATER. Mr Gaither, you need to choose him!!!
Who is Wes that you are talking about?
Uh Bonnie...did you read the article above the comments?
If you happen to travel through Effingham, IL check out New Hope Church. They have an amazing Tenor...Eric Hagen! Not too mention an OUTSTANDING worship team!!
Wes Hampton is a young man who went to UAB, then on to Trevecca Nazarene college. He traveled with their singing groups, and now does praise and worship (among other things) in Birmingham. I have known him for several years, and I guess a "God thing" occurred when David Phelps left the GVB, and Bill was looking for a tenor. I know Wes has auditioned for him, and I think there are a couple other fellows, but we are just so excited to think Wes may be chosen. I think I'm his biggest fan (beside his family of course)!!
I MISS DAVID!!!!!=) I don't know what Wes sounds like but he has some HUGE shoes to fill! I feel sorry for him!!
Don't get me wrong, David Phelps is awesome, but because he wanted to go out on his own, and I know Wes personally, I'm just excited for him. He fits in with this quartet very well.
Guys,
Yes Scott, I absolutly know that Wes only auditioned. I know there are a couple more guys Bill is looking at. We are just excited at the possiblity of it all!! I think David Phelps has a fantastic voice, and I'm sure the other gentlemen auditioning are great. But when you love the person that is involved, you just can't help but get excited!!
Wes and I have been best friends literally since we were born. We grew up singing together in a small town in West TN. Wes is one of the most talented people I know. I received a call from him yesterday that he is now the new tenor for the GVB!!! I am so excited for him. This is his dream and he will be wonderful. You guys do not know what you are in for!!
We are going to miss David Phelps very much. We loved his voice. We wish him the best for his future and God's choicest blessings.
I MISS DAVID!! haha WhenI saw the pictures of Wes singing wit the GVB I got sooo mad!! I HOPE he is good or I'm never buying another GVB cd again!!=) I am a TRUE, LOYAL David Phelps fan!!
I heard Wes tonight on the Gaither TV show. Wow!!!
I am a die hard D.Phelps fand or so I thought,Wes is right up there with David.God Bless you both
Page 1 of 1 Comment Pages