Mark209


Members: Sign In/Sign Up Members: Sign In Not a Member?  Sign up!
Community Newsletter 

Monthly Articles

Leave No Stone Unturned

image

Southern Gospel Egos

I would like to thank all of those that have written and called during the past 2 months. My health is doing better. Doctors have given me a tune up, and I am on my way to much healthier days.

I have started this column several times, and each time I hit the delete button. Since NQC is around the corner, I figured what a perfect time to identify the fakes amongst us.

I remember as a boy sitting in my daddy's church, listening to the Oak Ridge Boys sing live for our modest congregation. They seemed to just shine like the singers I watched on television. I remember waiting to visit with them back at their table. My knees were shaky and my palms sweaty, I moved in for the kill. I felt I was closing in on royalty. As I started to speak, Bill Golden grabbed my hand and said, "Hey little guy did you enjoy the singing? Pick anything you need off the table." Then Joe Bonsall came over and gave me a few pieces of the tambourine he broke that night when he was playing it. They laughed, showed us the bus, prayed with us and hit the road. Many of you are probably thinking, I have done that plenty of times with artists.

But, wait. Several days later the phone rang and they called to thank my father and mother for having them. They frequently sent letters and money to me and my family during hard times. The next year they planned a move to Country radio, with "Yall Come Back Saloon." They called and talked with many of their pastor friends, fans, and industry partners.

What did Southern Gospel music do? They put out their "Holier than Thou" stick and beat them to a pulp. The Oaks were accused of every bad thing all the other groups were doing at that time. Many groups came through my parents church, singers, drunks, addicts, thieves, and liars. One night we had geared up for a big Saturday night sing in Hickory, NC with another artist. Dad had announced it on his television show for several weeks, posters were out, and radio was playing their number one song. We arrived at the church early, we were making sure they had room to park, plugs, lighting, access, food, water or anything to make their journey pleasurable for our church.

I remember this being a pivotal point in the attitude that helps me manage and promote artists today. We pulled up and as we got out of the car, they pulled the curtain on the bus. We knocked and knocked. Finally a member of this family group came to the door and said, "We only come off the bus an hour before the show and would prefer you let us rest."

I had never seen a beer bottle before in my life. I immediately ran to the car. My dad wasn't aware until later on what had actually happened. I was afraid of beer and didn't want to believe or tell him that I had seen one on my favorite gospel artist's bus.

My father is one of the greatest men that ever lived. When this man dies, our town will not be able to hold the people. We were poor and my parents worked really hard to keep us feed. I remember someone laughing at my dad one day. He said, "If they are laughing at me, they are leaving someone else alone." I found that hard to swallow when they were laughing at me as a poor little boy, I would rather give them a black eye or throw them over a dam. I learned later in life that you can learn a lot from your enemies. You can gain plenty of dignity in silence, you can take the high road and be closer to God during trials.

Ok, I know you all are thinking stick with the subject, take your medicine and stop rambling on. So, here we go. The group stayed on the bus until show time, sent their crew to set up. They sang a few songs, cried in the same spots as they did on the radio, refused to talk to the people, had a family member stand at the table, and then ran back to their coach. My family cooked for a bake sale and stood in the hot sun for 4 weekends, collected bottles, used some of our building fund. Families that couldn't pay their bills put money in the pot to bring them to our church. We were supporting this image we saw on television and radio of this artist. What did we get? A big fake, drinking, lying, egotistical, over rated group of big time gospel stars, that couldn't even step inside the door of a major label without being kicked to the road.

When dad later explained to the group manager he had smelled gin on their breath, they tried to close the bus door on him and told him to run his church and stay out of their business. My dad, an old mountain Pentecostal preacher with a temper a mile wide, ran them off the church lot with an axe handle. I know groups think I am crazy, but I laugh as I look at every old Buffalo tour bus to see if its the coach my daddy chopped the sides off. I watched these attitudes happen year after year. Groups would come to our small church, get their money, put on a show and hit the road.

As I grew up and ran away from home in the mid 80's, I found myself working gigs on the road. Touring with rock bands, bouncing at bars, even a stint managing Tiny Tim ("Tip Toe Through the Tulips") during his days with the Alan C. Hill Circus. Now here's a man that was never fake or unpleasant, Tiny Tim (Herbert Khaury). I wasn't born during Tiny Tim's explosive career, I was just there to watch him struggle to out live "Tip Toe Through The Tulips." He had the most beautiful baritone voice, but couldn't escape the parody voice he used to break "Tip Toe Through the Tulips" on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. "Tip Toe Through the Tulips" was Tiny Tim's only Billboard Top 20 hit. Tiny lived at the Olcott Hotel in New York City for a few hundred bucks a month.

At that point he might have only have 3 dates a month. We spent lots of time talking, and I spent lots of time learning. Tiny taught me to never be fake, always be grateful, love everyone and praise the Lord with every breath. I wrote most of his fan mail back to others, Tiny's writing was not legible and his education was limited. But, his knowledge was amazing. It was awesome to watch him. We couldn't go 2 feet down a street without someone wanting his autograph or a picture, and we couldn't even afford a bagel for breakfast. But, it was something bigger than money to him. It was honesty, charisma and integrity. He never meet a stranger, and he always made sure everyone felt special.

I wasn't born to see him marry Miss Vickie on the Tonight Show, but I was when he married Miss Sue on Leno's Tonight Show, right before he died. I cry when I think of Tiny Tim, I feel great sadness that so many artist today are conceited,stuck up, fake, phony and egotistical. Yet they still manage to keep that fame and fortune rolling in that Tiny Tim deserved. Don't let artists treat you with disrespect. If you go to a concert, and the artist stays on the bus till they sing, as if they are royalty, don't buy their music. If they give you a fake smile and shake your hand and give you that "We appreciate you so much" and move to the next victim to their ego, move away. If they act like they don't have time for you say "I really liked you till I met you, your a disappointment," and walk away.

I hear every year at NQC the horror stories of artists, and their treatment of fans. I have had to literally go to my artist booths with fans on my arm and ask them to apologize. I have seen artists toss pictures at fans, make them stand for an hour while they talk to another group about fuel prices, or their bad spot on main stage. WHO CARES? At least you are singing. Get over it and yourself. Treat the people that buy the music as royalty. They pay your bills. They drive to see you. They pull the 8 records you might sell at retail off the shelves. Be nice and kind. Be Christ like.

And for the fans, stand up for yourself. If artists cut you out of a circle, treat you unkind, refuse a picture or autograph, ask you to come back, you just walk away. Find an artist that hasn't lost it, that can be real and honest, and say "I am tired will you forgive me."

In all seriousness, I have witnessed fan abuse and over inflated egos for too long. I have toured with musical icons that don't act like some of these Southern Gospel artist. Just watch them, and hold them accountable. Be a friend and fan. If they are jerks, they need to know it. There is only one King, the Messiah, our Lord and Jesus Christ. The artist are there to serve him, not be him.

Rick Hendrix
http://www.rickhendrix.com

About This Article - Southern Gospel Egos

Author: RickBHendrix | Author's Website: http://www.rickhendrix.com
Written: 08/31/2005 | Category: Monthly ArticlesLeave No Stone Unturned Comments: 67
| RSS Feed | (What's an RSS feed?) |


Ads Sponsored by Southern Spin

Reader Comments

  1.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/04/2005

    The artist have TONS of stress. I have been treated rude on several occasions. One artist looked me in the eyes at NQC, walked away and ignored me. Later, I found out she was going through a divorce. We really do not know their cicumstances.

    Sue

  2.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/04/2005

    Welcome back!!!! Rick We missed you
    grin

    Sue

  3.    Keith Prater ~ 09/05/2005

    This is a very important point. Unlike other genre, we are not really selling the music, we are selling Christ. And we can't really sell Christ if we are aloof from the people. If people love what I am doing enough to ask for my autograph or for me to sign a picture, I have a duty before God and man to give that person all the undivided attention I can. It's a shame that often those artists who do not present themselves as Christians are better people than those who do.

    If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit

    - Galatians 5:25

    Visit My Website

  4.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/05/2005

    Kudos Rick!!! I am 100% in agreement. Thanks for bringing this up!

  5.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/05/2005

    It's about time someone besides myself is saying this. As artist, we must treat people the way we want to be treated. You know how rumors start in this business and most of the time they may be true, but once a rumor starts it doesn't take long for it to spread like wild fire, and can and will hurt a group in the long run. EVERY artist must treat the fans wilh the utmost respect, regardless of what they wear, how bad their breath smells, or if they have B.O.
    The richest man in our town, looks like a homeless person, but when he goes to a concert, he buys most everything on the table and always puts $100 in the plate. So you CAN'T judge a book by it's cover.
    Artist, "PLEASE DO NOT" high hat your fans. It just may come back to bite you in the back side.

  6.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/05/2005

    THANK you. The artist can be rude. I could understand the worlds entertainers, these are Christ warriors.

    Blessings;
    Karen

  7.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/05/2005

    Rick
    Thank you so much for this article. This is so true and sad. I have to say that I disagree with artist that charge a flat fee or they will not come. I also have a problem with artist that snub their noses in the air at you just because you are different than them. I have saw many artist be rude and that is sad. As true Christians we need to pray for those with pride issues.

    Holly

    P.S. Welcome Back Rick. See you at NQC

  8.    David Bruce Murray ~ 09/05/2005

    There's some balance to this...some fans are hyper sensitive and take the slightest thing an artist does as an offense. Some feel they've been rudely treated when perhaps they were asking personal questions they had no business asking.

    The bottom line is artists are just human beings. Rick is right on target for saying fans shouldn't allow an artist to be a jerk without calling them on it. At the same time, some fans ought to chill out with the ridiculous levels of hero worship (at one extreme) and the demands they place on artists they have no right to place on them (at the other extreme). Both are demeaning.

  9.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    As a teenager, back in the 70s, I had opportunities to work with many SG legends. I always HEARD about the drunks, and the adulterers, and the addicts, but I only really ran into decent folks like Jake Hess, Chris Hess, Bill Baize, Ed Enoch, James Blackwood, Cecil Blackwood, Ken Turner, Hovie Lister. Each one of them gave me their time and were quite gracious. Cecil Blackwood even put me to work on a merch table run when they were out of the Bibles they sold.I got to pile into a car with Pat Hoffmaster, Tommy Fairchild, and Jimmy Blackwood, like I was part of the team.
    Of course, SG has had it's share of "carnality." We've had divorce, wife-swapping (and husband-swapping,) and I've seen plenty of old warriors lighting up a cigarette after the show. I remember when Lavern Tripp had to quit the Blue Ridge Quartet because he got saved. But, since SG is no longer as lucrative as it once was, I believe we'll begin to see less "entertainers" and more ministers. They can't say they're in it for the money. There IS no money.

  10.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    Oh, and welcome back again, Rick. I love you, bud.

  11.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    Oops. I accidentally posted that last one as "c"

  12.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    Maybe their attitudes are due to comments like the one above/ not supporting artist that charge to sing/ Thats crazy/ artist cannot sing for free.

    Candi

  13.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    Oh PLEASE- All the excuses in the world arent good enough. A lot of people in this industry have an ego the size of the ocean. I think if artist are jerks, share it with the promoter, agents, label, etc. Some folks are only good to the things they need. And for some reason they disreguard the fans.

    Dale

  14.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    Chris, What do you do now? Your life sounds exciting grin



    Dale

  15.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    True Dale-
    And welcome back Rick. We love you. Call the station soon.
    Candi

  16.    Keith Prater ~ 09/06/2005

    The things described here by Rick are things that are not even acceptable in the business world. You can't come to work drunk and you can't treat your clients and customers rudely. These things that are described by Rick are also things that are not acceptable for any Christian to do. We are told in scripture and led by the Spirit to treat everyone as we would like to be treated. So why would coming to work drunk or treating clients rudely be acceptable for a Christian singer or group? It does not matter about your personal life. It does not matter what fan may have treated the artist rudely. It does not matter if the promoter or church is not paying enough money. The artist still has a reponsibility to treat everyone with whom they come in contact with the utmost respect, and they have the responsibility to come to work in a professional manner. Doing as Rick described above is just not acceptable for any reason. It's time that we weed out those who do not behave properly.

    If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit

    - Galatians 5:25

    Visit My Website

  17.    David Bruce Murray ~ 09/06/2005

    Keith, Rick did speak of artists being drunk and blatantly rude initially, but he concluded by talking about things much more minor...like being cut out of a circle or ignoring a fan who's wanting to talk to you. That's what I was talking about with regard to balance. Fans expecting to be treated royally is a bit much, so I disagree with Rick on that one. Artists and fans should treat each other with respect. The whole hero worship/fan worship thing is out of hand.

    (If artists treat anyone like royalty, it should be concert promoters, because to do anything less is stupid for business.)

    I stood at an artist's table at NQC one year for nearly ten minutes while the artist chatted with another artist and ignored me. At one point, he even glanced my way and pulled the other artist over so he could be sure I wasn't eavesdropping...I wasn't. I just wanted to ask him about a CD I was considering buying. Rude behavior, right?

    The next time I saw the artist at a local concert, he spoke to me when I came up to his table and was very nice. We talked for several minutes...two totally different experiences. Now, I could have never given him that second chance to be polite, but I'm not one who gets offended that easily. I will get offended if an artist is verbally or deliberately rude, but not if they simply ignore me when they think they have something more important going on.

    I just think both sides need to cut the other side some slack on this issue.

  18.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    Rick,

    Glad you are back and in rare form. Thanks for addressing this troubling area in SG music. I agree with David Bruce Murray about the balance. It is dangerous for artists to think of themselves as "STARS" and it is a mistake for fans to TREAT them as stars. Nothing wrong with acting "professional," but I have seen those who are stuck on themselves and it turns my stomach. I have also seen fans get too easily offended over nothing. I guess it DOES all come down to treating people like we would want to be treated, no matter WHO we are -- the artist or the fan.

  19.    Psalm 101 ~ 09/06/2005

    Psalm 101's avatar Great topic! I have also witnessed some of the "top artists" be very erogant to other groups.
    Like a new or not so popular group opened for the major artist and the opening group recieved as much crowd response and folks at their product table buying CD's. I have seen the top artist not speak, shake a hand or even look their way. When the opening group was honored to be on the same stage with the major artist. Then when the opening group takes the first step to reach out & shake hands with the top group....they still get the cold shoulder! That is rediculous! Or they even make some sort of "sarcastic" remark about the opening group from the stage. That is so sickening in the eyes of God.

    Then you have folks like the Crabb family that go out of their way to supoort other artists!

    Psalm 101 - I will sing of mercy and judgement; unto thee O Lord, will I sing.
    Bill & Angela Fulkerson
    http://www.myspace.com/psalm101
    http://www.shoutlife.com/psalm101
    http://www.psalm101ministries.org

  20.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    Rick,

    Thanks for having the nerve to explore this area. I knew your article was going to be interesting when I read, "Since NQC is around the corner, I figured what a perfect time to identify the fakes amongst us." grin

    Your points are well taken. I echo Emily and DBM's comments. It also bothers me to hear of over-sensitive fans or artists jealous of their peers getting rubbed the wrong way about something they heard or saw about an artist and take it upon themselves to go on a mission to "ruin" that artist with gossip circles. The biblical approach is to go straight to that artist or person and get it worked out. Not telling 50 of your close friends and slandering someone.

  21.    Jamie Rebekkah Carter ~ 09/06/2005

    Great article! As a Fan I have seen this very thing from artist that I love. It is very hurtful. But I have resorted into looking at them as an equal not as a "hero" or "celebrity". Don't get me worng...there are a few out there that I haven't gotten the privilage of meeting and I know I will get sweat palms and shaky knees when I finally get to meet them. But if we feed their ego, it will get much bigger. They are just "people". Not only does this thought keep me from developing "hero worship" as David Burce Murray stated it also keeps me from feeling "rejected" from my best loved artists!

    I pray I never treat anyone with disrespect on the road or off. And If I ever do...I would pray someone would tell me about it. That way I can change it and change it fast!

  22.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    If your a gospel artist, you should depend on the Lord to supply and not charge money. I agree with Holly. I immediately turn away from artist that charge to give the word of Christ.If your meant to sing-GOD will provide the money, not the churches and followers. What a world when the word of God cost.Thats something to think about

    Joy

  23.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    Rick, thank you for this article. I totally agree with you. I also agree with a couple of other people that some of the fans can be too sensitive and too demanding. I think we all need to realize that these artists are people just like all of us with everyday pressures and problems just like us. Someone mentioned that someone had been going through a divorce. Someone may have a sick child or spouse, etc. at home, or have a teenager with issues that has them worried. Maybe they have a headache. Whatever?? There is no excuse for being rude, or arrogant, but keep in mind these people are the same as us - just people. And by all means, let the artist/group know how you feel, either in person at the time or if not possible, by e-mail or phone later. I do not like to see anyone bashed in a public forum.

  24.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    OH COME ON-so now all groups are going to HELL for charging for their dates.

  25.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    Oh so now the groups are unChristian for charging for their show?? Please
    Dale

  26.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    Joy wrote:
    "If your a gospel artist, you should depend on the Lord to supply and not charge money. I agree with Holly. I immediately turn away from artist that charge to give the word of Christ.If your meant to sing-GOD will provide the money, not the churches and followers. What a world when the word of God cost.Thats something to think about "

    Excuse me.

    The word of God is free. You can get it by walking into any church, for free. You can get it free by asking any Christian. You can get free Bibles with the Word in it for free. The Word of God does not cost, anything.

    You are very confused. Any gospel singer would be glad to sit down with you and study the Word, for free. You are confusing the teaching of the Gospel with a performance, a presentation, a way of making a living. NO. The Gospel is free. All things that may touch on the Gospel are not free.

    Why does this disturb you?

  27.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    Someone once said, "The gospel is free. But you gotta pay the band." Get a Bible and read 1st Timothy 5:18. Would any preacher stay at a church who just gave him love offerings? I believe it is honorable for anyone who presents the gospel, whether in spoken word, or in song, and does it to the glory of God and not themselves is worthy of pay (a fee, expenses, a flat, honorarium--whatever you want to call it.) Are there any full-time groups who sing strictly on love offerings? Show me ONE.

  28.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/06/2005

    Jesus said that we should pray that God give us our daily bread. This is all and good but I have not found many places that are passing out free loaves.

    I believe that God will supply. He will supply for me a way to support myself and my family. If that talent is computers, I will find, be lead to, be provided with a job that uses that talent. Why should it be any different if my talent is in music?

  29.    John Lanier ~ 09/07/2005

    Yes, indeed, the gospel is free to "whosoever will". But it takes money to get that word out. It takes money for materials to print a bible. It takes money for a church to operate. It takes money to send missionaries around the globe. It takes money to feed the hungry. It takes money to pay for supplies to send to hurricane victims to aid them in recovery.

    It takes money to buy gas for my vehicle to get me to the next service or concert...to FREELY give "whosoever will" the word and the word in song. It takes money to service and repair my vehicle used for FREE ministry. It takes money to pay for the sound system and various materials necessary to do my job...FREELY.

    It's nice to buy a hamburger on the way, and buy a cheap suit at least once a year so I don't have to preach or sing naked.

    What planet do some of these people live on??

  30.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/07/2005

    I love Christian music, although I am not personally a fan of SGM. I have family members who have been actively involved in SGM since I was a child, and so I know that much of what you say is true. I don't really know who you are and what your history is in SGM, but you seem to have a heart that is soft toward God and heart that is soft toward God is a heart that embraces Truth. My question is this and I have not been able to find one person in any form of Christian entertainment who can answer it: Where in the Bible do we see an example of a person, or a group of people PERFORMING songs before an audience? The only Scriptural refernce I see is people who lead a congregation in WORSHIP TO THE LORD. Yes, they are standing in front, but they are doing so in an attempt to LEAD people in to the PRESENCE of God. I cannot find anything in the Bible that even closely resembles what we do in SGM or Contemporary Christian or anything. It's entertainment. And the people are Christian perhaps. And they sing songs about Christ. But to call it a MINISTRY??? How do we support that with Scripture? I'm not trying to split hairs or begin a controversey. I'm seriously baffled by the whole Christian music INDUSTRY. Jesus came to save the World. Isn't this whole INDUSTRY just an American distortion of what MUSIC is supposed to be?
    Just asking.

  31.    Keith Prater ~ 09/07/2005

    Candy raises an interesting question. The industry is just someone's idea of how to make money from music. If we take the Industry out of the music, would we have the ego problems this article is trying to address? And, by the way, the scriptures never say that the Gospel is free (see Luke 14:26-33, Matthew 7:6,13-14).

    If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit

    - Galatians 5:25

    Visit My Website

  32.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/07/2005

    Interesting points, Candy. I strongly believe that since artists represent a message that promotes a specific lifestyle, they should live it, not just sing about it. I believe that's what separates a "minister of music" and just an entertainer. Today's artists ARE entertainers. If they aren't, no one will come and listen. That's the packaging and vehicle to get the message out. If the message is just lyrics to us, then we are only entertainers. If we indeed believe what we sing, live what we sing, and treat people like Jesus wants us to, then I feel that it IS a ministry, because that's what we are doing -- ministering to people's needs.

  33.    John Snodgrass ~ 09/07/2005

    Where in the Bible do we see an example of a person, or a group of people PERFORMING songs before an audience? The only Scriptural refernce I see is people who lead a congregation in WORSHIP TO THE LORD. Yes, they are standing in front, but they are doing so in an attempt to LEAD people in to the PRESENCE of God. I cannot find anything in the Bible that even closely resembles what we do in SGM or Contemporary Christian or anything. It's entertainment.

    Candy, I understand your question, but..... in the eyes and attitudes of many in SG (as well as CC) music, we are more than entertainers. Do you consider a good campmeeting message, or a soul-stirring message by Billy Graham to be entertainment? Probably not, but..... you do stay with the subject, and are drawn to the conclusion, and, maybe you even respond to it! That is what a Christian Singer wants to have for the crowd. A message, conveyed the way that will make a lasting impression, not necessarily that the impression should be how well they could hold a note or not. Jesus should be shown.

    That being said, there are a lot of songs that are fun, or made to be a tear-jerker, that are not "ministering", but just another song in the program. Sometimes though, a song that is "funny" like "Excuses" by the Kingsman, really drive a point home, and STILL the message is heard.

    I just read Lauren Talley's article and at the end she tells it better than I could, because the songs and testimonies from the Talley Trio that night literally saved a girl's life. THAT is what will get you back on the bus next weekend.

    We have to all watch our motives, don't we?

  34.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/07/2005

    IN MY YEARS IN RADIO, I'VE MET AND INTERVIEWED PEOPLE FROM THE PRESIDENT ON DOWN AND FIND SOMETIMES THE BIGGEST EGO'S ARE ON THE ONES THAT DON'T HAVE THAT MUCH TO BE PUFFED UP ABOUT. MY FAMILY TRIO HAS SUNG AT MANY CHURCHES AND ARE ALWAYS GRACIOUS WHEN WE'RE SINGING SOMEWHERE. BUT ONCE IN A WHILE I MIGHT GET UPSET ABOUT SERVICE IN A STORE OR RESTAURANT AND PRESENT AN ATTITUDE I WOULD NOT WANT TO BE JUDGED BY. I SUPPOSE THOSE ON THE ROAD CAN HAVE A BAD DAY TOO.

  35.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/07/2005

    John,

    The difference between a Billy Graham crusade and being a performer of songs that mention the Gospel is that the Bible CLEARLY COMMANDS us to PREACH the Gospel.
    So Billy Graham is doing something that we see modeled all through the New Testament - standing up and preaching and proclaiming the Gospel.

    To compare preaching the Word and proclaiming what Billy Graham and other evangelists, pastors and teachers of the Word do to what goes on at.... say... the National Quartet Convention is like comparing apples to lugnuts on the tires a race car. They're not even in the same Universe.

    Because God's Word will never return void- because the songs some singers sing carry the actual Gospel and the actual Word of God - these words and the Message Itself, will have an effect on the souls of people. But just because what these singers are singing about is carrying the POWER OF THE GOSPEL... let's not forget it is HIS power.. it is HIS victory... it is HIS Spirit that is doing it... HE LOVES THE WORLD ENOUGH TO DIE FOR IT... so desperate is He that no one should perish. So if a Gospel song is the closest someone will ever get to the Gospel... He'll use it.

    My point is just that I don't see anything in the Bible even closely resembling a class of Christian "ministers" who travel around and performs, get paid to do so, have "fans", agents, and publicity persons and then call it a ministry.

    Are we afraid to call it just a career? I see the purpose of music to be used in the local church... talented singers and musicians who play skillfully, practice to hone their craft and then use their talent to focus themselves and the congregation completely on the face of the Adored One - Jesus Christ.

    Also, I'm not judging or saying there is anything intrinsically wrong with someone choosing to devote his/her life to doing that. It's a respectable way to make a living. But let's be honest... mostly it's a way they are making a living. In much the same way any music artist is doing so.

    I'm just saying that I am unable to find anything in the Bible that even closely resembles what goes on in the Christian Music INDUSTRY (isn't that an oxymoron?)
    Is there no one out there who is willing the say about the Emperor....."but he has no clothes on!".

    It gets confusing when we expect these people to be ministers. They're performers. They perform. There's not a thing wrong with that. Some of them may have a call to ministry on their lives, many of them actually have a deep and abiding love for their Savior, some of them want to believe that they are in "ministry".

    I'm sure many, many, many singers start each concert with prayer and a deep abiding hope that souls will be reached for the Lord in their concert.

    But is it wrong to stop and ask ourselves.. "Hey.. we're doing something but is it Biblical?"...

  36.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/07/2005

    I can tell you first hand how being insenstive some can be. The group that I was singing with at the talent contest at the Seminole Singing had just won first place and was fixing to take the stage to open the nights program. What should have been an awesome experince turn bad for me when **** walked over to me and said as I was going on stage that " You are to fat to make it in southern gospel music." What encouragement that was from a ledgend that I admired. Unfortunately here I set writing this istead of doing what I would love to do. Words can do a lot of harm and artist should, no matter what, show the love of Christ in every situation and treat everyone as he would because without the love of Christ why get up and singing about HIM anyway.

    ** edited by Administration

  37.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/07/2005

    Please tell me where the big expense is in getting in a car and singing to a church. I read a few comments. I see no excuse for groups to charge 500 dollars to sing.

    Joy

  38.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/07/2005

    Please tell me how a group can charge 500 dollars to get in a car and sing to a church. Its beyond me. It doesnt cost that much.

    Joy

  39.    Keith Prater ~ 09/08/2005

    Perhaps Joy I can help you understand it.

    There are four priniciples that come from the Holy Spirit and from scripture that will guide us in this area.

    #1 - No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. (Matthew 6:24) - If God has called me to write and sing His songs, I have a duty to God to devote my full attention to it. If I am working another full-time job, I can't.

    #2 - Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you. (Matthew 7:6) - If someone is not willing to pay for what I do, then they will not value it or receive the intended blessing. In this case, they are the swine that do not appreciate my pearls. My time, effort and money used to sing to them would be wasted.

    #3 - For the scripture saith, thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward. (1 Timothy 5:18) - We have a duty as Christians to reward those who do valuable things for us -- including singers.

    #4 - Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. (Luke 6:38) - In other words, to the extent you are willing to pay for good music is how good the music will be. If you want Southern Gospel music to be good, you'd better be willing to pay for it. If the artists can't devote the proper amount of time and money to it, they can't improve their craft and make it the best music in the world.

    None of these have anything to do with how much it costs to get there. What it does have to do with is obeying God and being blessed for it.

    If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit

    - Galatians 5:25

    Visit My Website

  40.    John Snodgrass ~ 09/08/2005

    Candy, I am not saying that it isn't a career. It is for many people. Any career will create an INDUSTRY. It is just that simple. The other responders said it better than I can. It takes Money to run any organization. How much money? That is really the question, isn't it? Most people, as Danny Jones' blog stated a while back, think NOTHING of paying over $40 to see a country performer, plus buy product and shirts, and be proud that they spent that much, and then go to a Gospel concert the next weekent and grouse about paying $10 to get in!

    Any minister, whether they are a preacher, singer, teacher, author, or whatever, that is worth their salt has "fans". I am a HUGE fan of many of these folks. Max Lucado, Billy Graham, Joe Arthur, Craig Edwards, Billy Graham, plus a bunch of singers. Does that mean that they are not ministering? Of course not. Does that mean that there are not any people out there that are doing it for the money and "fame"? Sorry.

    Seriously, if it were just about the money and fame, don't you think that almost every group and singer that crosses the big gospel stage could make it in the INDUSTRY of secular music?

    Again, I still am with your original question. Where in the Bible does it say to get up and perform? What did the priests do? They didn't "minister", in the way we consider the term. They simply "performed" the funcions of the sacrifices, and made sure that their job was done correctly.

    And lastly, MOST singers do not "make their living" by singing. They work all week, and sing on the weekends, hoping to be a blessing and encouragement to the saints, and lead the lost to Christ.

    I know, because, "I'm one of them".

  41.    John Snodgrass ~ 09/08/2005

    Ed, I am sure that the statement you heard hurt your feelings. I am reasonably sure that the fellow that said that was joking. Think of who he has been around all these years! Your height/weight ratio does not determine your success; your willingness and ability and yes, leading of the Lord will determine if you would be in this business.

    It is so like Satan to get into our head and tell us that we are not worthy, good enough, living close enough, pretty, tall, short,...... whatever he can find to discourage us. He is the Master of that. (he's the father of lies)

    Do NOT let him get by with that! get your mind determined that you are gonna work for the Lord, doing what his will is for you. If it is singing, fine. If it is staying at your home church and helping there, fine. Just be willing, and don't pass opportunities to serve and bless others!

    God Bless you, and I pray that God will help you get past this so you can be more for him. If you never sing another note, who's fault is it really?

    ** Edited by Administration to remove personal names.

  42.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/08/2005

    I would like to respond to Joy's comments.

    If you travel anywhere today and sing, let's say right now with the current fuel prices, 300 miles. With a vehicle that has a 3.0 v6 engine, (that to travel that distance will cost you about 60-70 dollars to fill up with a 20 gallon tank)loaded down with clothes to change in, pa equipment that costs about 2-3,000 dollars (not real quality equipment at that) cd's (that also cost 2-5,000 dollars to record if it is a custom recording, more if it is with a national label,
    8.5 cents per song, per copy, several hundred dollars for graphic art design for the covers, and duplication) and whatever else that you have on your product table, cost for meals and motel rooms, there is another 70-80 dollars per day and we haven't even got there to sing yet. Now count in expenses of running your office to get this date that shouldn't cost youthe devoted SGM fan 500.00. Long distance expenses, postage of sending a promo pack filled with information about the artist that costs about 7.00 per packet to put together and a copy of their latest cd (which someone will get a hold of and make several free copies to distribute to church members hence cutting out several opportunities for cd sales) office overhead for utilities and supplies, then maybe a small modest salary for yourself after paying all the self employment stuff, because guess what, your're self employed which means if you want luxuries like health insurance and stuff you gotta pay that too. Now let's say that I was coming to your church for no guarantee, a love offering and it came time to take a break and time for the pastor to receive the offering and I detailed all the expenses it takes to be there prior to the offering being received. What's gonna happen. Folks like youself will sit there and say "Well, it's not my responsibility to pay your way." "He's just in it for the money." "You don't have to do all that to be in SGM." "God will take care of him." (Luke 6:38 says men will give to your bosom, not God look it up!!!) It costs me 2-300 dollars to be there and I receive a love offering for 100.00, no cd sales because everyone already has a pirated copy of it and they call next week wanting me back next year? The Gospel of Christ is free, but the pipeline to bring it to you costs money. You say, they deserve to hear the gospel too. Absolutely. They do. But let them instead call an artist that works a full time job and sings on the weekends to come and sing for them that not only they can afford but he can afford them. And honor the fine men and women of SGM and CCM that devote their full time, their time away from their family, their weekends and holidays, to sing good quailty christian music and pay them what they are worth. As is has already been stated, the laborer is worthy of his hire. Keith Prater and Rick Hendrix, I agree with you guys totally. Keep on keepin on.

  43.    Susan Jones ~ 09/08/2005

    It doesn't cost $500 to get in a car and go sing. I assume from your comment you would be happy to have only local artists do all of your concerts.

    If you live in California and you want to hear the Inspirations sing (from NC)then they can't just get in the car and sing at your church. They have to travel across the country, stay somewhere along the way or get a bus and pay a driver so they can sleep on the road. Most likely, if someone in CA is requesting THEM to come, there's probably someone in FL and TX that would like them at their church as well. If they are going to criss-cross they country sharing their talent with the folks who want to hear their singing, it's going to require an awful lot of time off work...or maybe it will have to become their job to meet the demand for their testimonies, songs and talent. If they quit their other jobs in order to meet the demand for their talent, now they have to find some other way to pay for their mortgage, electricity, heating, etc. If there are 5 of them, multiply that times 5. That will cost more than $500... It's not just about how much it costs to get in a car and go sing. If there is a legitimate demand for YOUR talent and meeting the demand means quitting your livelihood to share the talent and testimony God has given, $500 to sing is not asking too much!

  44.    Susan Jones ~ 09/08/2005

    It doesn't cost $500 to get in a car and go sing. I assume from your comment you would be happy to have only local artists do all of your concerts.

    If you live in California and you want to hear the Inspirations sing (from NC)then they can't just get in the car and sing at your church. They have to travel across the country, stay somewhere along the way or get a bus and pay a driver so they can sleep on the road. Most likely, if someone in CA is requesting THEM to come (as opposed to someone local), there's probably someone in FL and TX that would like to have them at their church as well. If they are going to criss-cross the country sharing their talent with the folks who want to hear their singing, it's going to require an awful lot of time off work...or maybe it will have to become their job to meet the demand for their testimonies, songs and talent. If they quit their other jobs in order to meet the demand for their talent, now they have to find some other way to pay for their mortgage, electricity, heating, etc. If there are 5 of them, multiply that times 5. That will cost more than $500... It's not just about how much it costs to get in a car and go sing. If there is a legitimate demand for YOUR talent and meeting the demand means quitting your livelihood to share the talent and testimony God has given, $500 to sing is not asking too much!

  45.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/08/2005

    I first want to say to john, that I since a lot of compassion in you. that you do have a heart for God. The only reason that I would say anything was not to attack but to say that we need to have the heart of copassion to everyone that we meet. I never pursuded my dream of fulltime because what was said was in the back of my mind. But I have gotten to sing and travel some regionally and sang on stage with some of the best in gospel music. I was always careful to respect everyone and to show Gods love no matter what. That will win more people than we can imagine. And one last thing for Candy, 90 percent of the people out singing for the Lord dont make a red cent from it. They do it because they love the Lord and are sharing the Gospel to the lost and spreading Gods words in song because some people might never listen to a preacher preach but they'll listen to a song. And I can garentee you that many have been saved, set free, healed amd delivered during a singing. God Bless everyone that has chosen to give in service no matter what it is they do.

  46.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/08/2005

    We must never ever forget this is not show biz, it is ministry. Artist are human but if you are in the lime light you are expected to be better. To whom much is given much is required. We as artist (ministers) do live in glass houses. If you can't take the heat stay out of the kitchen. We must follow the example of Christ, When His cousin had been beheaded he wanted to be alone but the crowd followed so he got His self off His hands and ministered to them. When singing Gospel music stops being ministry it stops being Gospel, even if it does have the name of Jesus in it. It is just another song. Great article, we must be held accountable

  47.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/08/2005

    No. No. No. Sometimes I believe that many people who claim to be Christians and write on these boards do not believe in the power of God.

    We provide Christian entertainment. Yes, that is entertainment. But the key word here is "Christian". As Christian entertainers, we sing songs with a message, otherwise it would not be Christian.

    I have no problems with those who claim to be ministering when giving a concert. If that is what they do, that is fine. On the other hand, when we give a concert to entertain, I believe that God is powerful enough to take the lyrics of my songs and use them for His purpose.

    I don't have to do God's work for him. All I have to do is to deliver the message. If I deliver that message as Christian entertainment, He will still use it.

    Quote: "When singing Gospel music stops being ministry it stops being Gospel, even if it does have the name of Jesus in it. It is just another song."

    How in the world can it stop being gospel if the lyrics proclaim the gospel message? To me, this makes abslutely no sense at all.

  48.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/09/2005

    I have been a fan of southern gospel music now for about 8 years. My "addiction" to going to concerts all started with a family group, who took me under their wings, the Perrys. In my opinion I had to be their number one fan. At the time Nicole Watts Jenkins was singing the soprano part and doing a fabulous job. However, it wasn't their 'awesomeness" on stage that pulled me in as a fan. It was the way I was treated after the concert. They talked to me as if they had known me for years. Nicole especially. Now that she has a solo ministry we to this day are great friends. Tracy and Libby Stuffle were also very sweet and they too are still dear friens to me. There are many groups who not only sing what they do but they live what they are singing. They truly are "Christlike". Then there are the groups that aren't, and boy I have met a few of them in my time. All I have to say is if they dont want to take the time to talk to us, which we aren't just fans, we are also people! Just as important as they are. Maybe God didnt give us the talent to do what they are doing but if it wasnt for us they wouldnt be able to do what they do and live because they would have noone to buy records or come see them. There are still artists who genuinely do care and I think I will go ahead and mention a few names: Nicole of course, the Perrys, the Greenes, the Hoskins, the Steeles, the Whisnants, and I know I have forgotten someone but these are just a few!!!!
    I do agree with Rick it is high time that the groups who aren't in this for people other than themselves or their families to move out! Let thos who truly love the Lord and love His people get some recognition. Let us buy their recors and pay the big bucks to come and see them in concert, we may at least geta genuine smile and handshake then!!!!

  49.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/12/2005

    Welcome back Rick. The artists are under a lot of pressure. They are criticized by people who claim to be their fans for silly things like how they dress. I don't recall ever experiencing rudeness from any members of the groups I like. I'm sure that is a fortunate thing since I know others haven't been so lucky.

  50.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/12/2005

    Quote: (Bethany) "I do agree with Rick it is high time that the groups who aren't in this for people other than themselves or their families to move out! Let thos who truly love the Lord and love His people get some recognition. Let us buy their recors and pay the big bucks to come and see them in concert, we may at least geta genuine smile and handshake then!!!!"

    What do you call "big bucks"? I have never heard of anyone in Southern Gospel charging big bucks for a concert ticket. If I am wrong, correct me. I have been to Gaither concerts and have not seen ticket prices there that were not low or moderate.

    When you go see a top country name, you will pay$40.00 up. That's getting there. When you go a top Pop concert, you can pay as much as $200.00 to $300.00 for a close ticket.

    If SG people could charge anywhere near what other genres of music charge, then there would be fewer problems in the industry. The other side of this is that the singers could actually do more ministry for they would not have to be on the road all year trying to make a living.

  51.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/13/2005

    joy i can tell by the way you talk you do not travel $$$$$$$well the woed of god is free but rent -gas- light- ins-water.etc are not there are full time groups out there were $500 whould not even get them to a singing we needed to support the people on the front lines or do it for them (you sound like you really have all the numbers worked out i need to book you and you need to travel 1000 miles to a church and sing and lets see how good your faith is talk the talk walk the walk.......

  52.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/14/2005

    I really can't relate to the column. Everybody that I've ever approached in SG has been really nice to me. The big names like the Cathedrals, Imperials, Gold City, on down to the local groups.

    I'm sure that bad experiences happen, but I've never had one.

    One thought,respect is a two way street. Last year at NQC, I was collecting autographs for a friend who couldn't make it. I saw Mark Trammell talking to Norman Holland at the Trio's booth. I had no idea what they were talking about, but it might have been important, so I didn't interupt. I shook hands with Eric Phillips and got his signature and waited. When Mark was through talking, he was very gracious and even apologized for the wait and thanked me for my patience. Treating other people the way you'd like to be treated goes a long way.

  53.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/16/2005

    Rick,
    i was glad and sad to see your post about fakes in SG. I was raised in church and have been around SG all of my life. I have played piano for goups, even one that had a few #1 songs. I had left the church and left music. In 2000 after two years of talking my wife into going to SG concerts she finally agreed, she had never been a christian or attended that many churches, but she was listening to my SG Cd's really loved Guy Penrod of the Gaither Vocal band, that's what finally got her ro go. We attende the 2000 NCQ for the full week and was having a good time. At one booth, we were the only ones at the booth and the artist was working the table of a nationally know group, I introdced myself and my wife the gentleman (using the term loosely) was extremly rude and very standoffish. I did not ask any personal questions and was gettting ready to complement this artist and his group. but with taht attitude and the response we got I laid down the three cd's I was going to purchase and walked away. My wife does not say bad things about anyone and said nothing that night because she didn't want to ruin the rest of the convention for me, but on our way beck to West Virginia, she said she would never go to another SWG event and felt she got treated btter in a grocery store. Not all the artist were that way but more than one were. It is ashame. You never Know who is in the crowd and what it took to get them there. If these groups (which had just been on stage, singing, testifying) are about winning souls, then it takes more than talent, it take living it. I am sad for the industry, I love SG and always will. I just hope that more artist will understand that people are watching more that the stage, it may be a soul lost adn the blood required at their hands.

    thank you
    Lost Lamb

  54.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/16/2005

    Hi Rick
    I have to agree with you. I have heard stories too but i have also seen a Quartet show up for a fair and concert in Maine and noticed them smoking while walking around the fair grounds. Another time I traveled all the way to Harrisburg PA for a concert, I was looking for my friend who sang tennor for the group, and noticed the bass singer across the street with a coffee and a cigarette! I was disappointed that he didnt have the maturity and trust in God to stop that habbit and yet had the nerve to go on stage and try to present himself as a mature christian.
    Now, as someone already mentioned, someone could be going through something that we dont know about so we must be careful.
    Not all groups can be as friendly as the McKameys but we dont have to be treated as second class citizens. If this happens again, I will say something thanks to you but I will try to be careful how I say it.
    Mark

  55.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/17/2005

    thanks Rick for the great post. It gives me a chance to say that I am a great fan Of the collingworth's, Jonathan white and the LeBeaus. They are the most wonderful, kind and considerate people I know. They always take time to talk with their fans and they are real Royalty, not fakes.

  56.    Jennifer McCallister ~ 09/19/2005

    Hi Rick,
    Very glad to hear you are feeling better!
    Your article really made me think. Someday the Lord will separate the sheep from the goats, but until then I'm thankful for people like your dad who can tell the difference!
    A Christ-like spirit treats every person with love and respect, whether it be an artist, a promoter, a fan, or a little child! The
    reason we do is not so they will buy a CD, or book us back next year, but because we know they are precious to Jesus. He gave His life's blood for them!
    I'm glad to know some artists who have remained unchanged. Through their trials and successes, they’ve kept the same Christ-like spirit. I'm sad to say, I've also seen artists who started out with generous, loving spirits, then as their success grew, so did their egos. Gone is their friendship! I’m not trying to pass judgements, but I can't help wondering, did they really have the right spirit to begin with, or were they "faking" all along? Were they just using the fans, promoters, and other artists as stepping stones. I’d rather believe they’ve only been temporarily distracted by the fame, success, and the business of this tiny, tiny world we call Southern Gospel. Either way, "there is a
    remedy!!" Let's get our eyes on Jesus, and pray for the gospel music industry to be filled
    with His Spirit!!
    Jen

  57.    Keith Prater ~ 09/19/2005

    I agree that there are those with egos who are mean and we need to deal with those. But some singers just have shy personalities. Many singers become singers for this very reason -- it is easier to sing what you want to say than speak it. Personally, I'm just not going to try to figure out the correct etiquette for every situation since every person has their own set of rules for every situation. I would do the best I could to be as friendly as possible, but it is too much for every fan to expect that every singer will give them their full and undivided attention. It reminds me of the song "Excuses". One of the excuses some have for not going to church is that the "preacher didn't even shake my hand!"

    If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit

    - Galatians 5:25

    Visit My Website

  58.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/19/2005

    A great Operatic Conductor "Arturo Toscanini"
    said,"The only stars are all in heaven."
    There are no gospel music super stars.I think all
    the hype and spin is clap trap.God is not pleased
    with gospel singers thinking they are great.

    Thank you and have a great day.........

    Bobby Clark

  59.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/23/2005

    <<On 09/16/2005 Mark Kozlowski wrote:

    ...i have also seen a Quartet show up for a fair and concert in Maine and noticed them smoking while walking around the fair grounds...noticed the bass singer across the street with a coffee and a cigarette! I was disappointed that he didnt have the maturity and trust in God to stop that habbit and yet had the nerve to go on stage and try to present himself as a mature christian.>>

    First, I am quite surprised by all the negative experiences listed in this thread regarding SG artists. I have followed this music for over 35 years, attended innumerable concerts, and even hosted professional groups at concerts and meals. Not once have I witnessed inappropriate behavior on their part or seen them be rude to anyone. I am sure that it happens, but I would guess that it is very rare relative to all the contacts made between artists and fans.

    Second, I continue to be amazed by people who impose their own convictions on everyone else such as the case I have quoted above.

    I do not use or condone the use of tobacco products. In fact, I vigorously discourage it. However, I can find no direct admonishment of its use in the Bible. I do find, on the other hand, specific directives to not speak badly of one's fellow man. So I ask you -- Who has committed the greater sin?

    Mike Wiggington
    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

  60.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/25/2005

    I've been a SGM fan since the early 70s, and heard rumors of unchristian behavior but never knew of any. I do know that I was very disappointed to the point of feeling betrayed when the Oak Ridge Boys went country. I could not understand how someone who I thought was dedicated to Christ would turn to serve the world. It seemed like the title and picture on "Y'all Come Back Saloon" were selected to distance themselves from Christ, similar to Peter's cursing when he did it. They were one of the top gospel groups so I imagine they already had a great income and plenty of popularity. I've heard Duane Allen say they couldn't sing a certain song because they were believers but I also know they sang "Hey my old lover and friend, how long has it been since we lay together..." To this day whether they appear on Gaither or a Christmas special I am troubled. Certaily I don't know their spiritual condition, but this is clear: "If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him." I'd appreciate comments or insights.

  61.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/26/2005

    Quote: "I could not understand how someone who I thought was dedicated to Christ would turn to serve the world."

    Interesting. Are you dedicated to Christ? Do you make your income to support your family from the ministry? Does everyone who is dedicated to Christ have to make their living in the ministry? What about the yourth minister who cannot make ends meet and quits to sell insurance or take another "secular" job? Does this mean anyone who is dedicated to Christ cannot make their living in a secular job?

    Quote: "They were one of the top gospel groups so I imagine they already had a great income and plenty of popularity."

    True, they had popularity. They were not making enough to stay on the road and support their families. That is why they agreed to a decular gig in the southwest. After they did this, they were virtually kicked out of Southern Gospel. I have never been able to understand why secular artists can do Christian songs but Christian atrist are not allowed to do secular songs. It has not always been that way. When the Chuck Wagon Gang began singing, they did secular and religious songs. The religious songs proved to be so popular at that time and place that they switched to all Christian.

  62.    Keith Prater ~ 09/26/2005

    I make my living at a secular job, but I would not drive a beer delivery truck or work at a Hustler store. And, personally, I have no use for secular artists who do Christian music.

    If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit

    - Galatians 5:25

    Visit My Website

  63.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/26/2005

    I believe that the discussion can be kept focused on professions and jobs where there is no question about whether what is being done is right or wrong.

    In other words Kieth, if a Christian makes his living as a barber, it would be all right for him to sing Christian music. If a Christian makes his living in secular music, it is not all right for him to sing Christian music.

    I respect your right to believe anything you want to believe. I just find it hard to understand why you believe that.

  64.    .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ~ 09/26/2005

    I have no problem with Christian artists leaving to take another job, just as I have no problem with a pastor leaving for a factory job, let's say. But for any Christian to take a job which opposes the faith or encourages immorality -- yes, that bothers me. Before someone objects, I grant that not every song must be overtly Christian, but it must pass the Phil 4:8 test. And to be a drawing card to attract people to attend places like night clubs is also clearly wrong. Many people say that Jesus associated with sinners which makes it OK, but there is a huge difference. He did it on his terms in neutral locations. Had he been invitied to a brothel to preach I can even imagine that he might have done so. But I am certain that he would have not turned any water into wine or put on a show to make the evening more 'pleasant' for the customers, even if it might have made his message more acceptable.

    Thanks for your comments.

  65.    Ben Scroggs ~ 09/26/2005

    Wow! I couldn't have said it any better. Rick Rocks! Rick Hendrix For President! Hendrix in 2008 smile

  66.    Cheryl ~ 09/12/2006

    Hi,

    I enjoyed reading your article. More so, I enjoy what you said about Tiny Tim. It's always refreshing to hear/read someone's opinion of him that ISN'T negative. The above URL is my own special tribute site to him, that's how much Tiny means to me. There is a reason why Tiny said, "always be appreciative." Others who ridicule him are missing out - BIG time - while we, the appreciative ones, are left with gems from a music legend. And of course, giving thanks and praise to our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ, has it rewards. God bless you. You're in my prayers.

    Sincerely,
    Cheryl Smith
    South Florida

  67.    Cheryl ~ 09/12/2006

    Hi,

    Me again. I also wanted to add that I have read a lot of judgmental comments on here about what other Christians were doing, (ie: smoking before a show). I don't think it's our place to judge other Christians on what we see them doing. Sure, we should encourage them to change that behavior and give Biblical backup to that, but to sit there and say that you doubt someone's profession of faith or doubt that someone's a "true Christian" because you saw them smoking or heard them say a cuss word, etc. is just wrong. Look at Moses! We all have strongholds. You don't know that the person has been praying for deliverance and asking God's forgiveness and help during their struggle. Everything (esp. deliverance) happens in GOD'S TIME, not our own. All we can do is pray for them. Prayer is helpful and God is powerful. Passing judgement on someone IS NOT helpful.



  68. Page 1 of 1 Comment Pages

Write your comment...

By posting you agree to our Comments Policy

You have not synced your Facebook account with your account on our site to use this feature.
You can still sync your accounts if you want to post this to your Facebook wall:







Remember my personal information


Please enter the word you see in the image below:

   Direct Out Audio




Visit Gospel Music Zone



Recent Features

  • A Blessed People
  • Shameless Self Promotion
  • Poet Voices To Be Heard Again! And online no less!
  • An Amazing Winter
  • Hard to Believe!
  • Fried Dill Pickles & Love Songs
  • Over 80,000 Views!
  • Lessons From Four Footed Creatures - Part 2
  • Russ Taff - Never Forget Where We Came From
  • Morgan Easter - Not Without Love
  • Southern Gospel Love Stories
  • And Now For Something Different: Never Stop Holding Hands
  • Expecting Great Things
  • Life In the Word: Life Essentials Study Bible
  • Blessed Are the Ready For They Shall Be Raptured
  • Christian Fiction Queen: Wonderland Creek
  • 2012 Absolutely Gospel Music Awards - VOTE NOW!
  • The Glorious Gift of Harmony
  • Thou Shalt Learn To Encourage Thyself
  • Connections: A Quiet Ministry
  • McCray Dove - In Conversation…
  • 10 Things to Know About Jim Sheldon
  • Susan Unthank Memorial - One Year Later

  • Recent Comments

  • spirit7productions on: Thou Shalt Learn To Encourage Thyself
  • Lena Aldridge on: Pathway Records/AbsolutelyGospel.com Talent Contest Begins May 15th
  • Greg Brewer on: 2nd Generation Announces Addition of Josh Adams to Group
  • .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) on: SG History 101 - Blue Ridge Quartet
  • christopher reed on: Jaidyn's Call - Blessing In Disguise

  • » moreCommunity Talk

  • Looking for Lead or Tenor
  • Southland Harmony Boys at Heavenly Ribs, Sumiton, al. Feb 14th
  • DIXIE ECHOES/BRIDGEMANS - CUMMING, GA - FEB. 19
  • Daybreak Quartet Feb.12 Mount Vernon Baptist Murrayville, GA/Gainesville/GA
  • NQC Talk 2012
  • The Jonathans and Soul'd Out - Ranburne, AL - March 25, 2012
  • Soul'd Out Quartet in Concert on Saturday, March 31, 2012 Matthews, IN

  • Archives

  • Archives