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Feb 01, 2012
Russ Taff talks with staff writer Jeff Lowe about his new release - Faroe Islands Russ Taff talks with staff writer Jeff Lowe about his new release - Faroe Islands
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Staff Writer Chris Becker talks with Morgan Easter about her new solo album. Staff Writer Chris Becker talks with Morgan Easter about her new solo album.
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Love stories from 3 couples from all walks of this so-called Southern Gospel life Love stories from 3 couples from all walks of this so-called Southern Gospel life
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Voting is now open in 12 of the 24 categories in the Absolutely Gospel Music Awards Voting is now open in 12 of the 24 categories in the Absolutely Gospel Music Awards Click on an image to change Feature Article
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 Bubba Smith is a Grammy and Dove Award winning producer who has worked on critically acclaimed projects for such notable artists as Shirley Caesar, the Crabb Family, Karen Peck & New River, Austins Bridge, Sandi Patty, and many more. He was awarded Producer of the Year (Professional) in the 2006 SGN Music Awards
I thought I would drift form the normal article and share a few thoughts that I gained from my Cock-A-Poo pup.
If you are ever in need of encouragement, don’t sit down somewhere and wait for people to show up with comforting words.
“I’m intimidated by the fear of being average.” The young woman who made that statement is an example of someone who is definitely NOT infected with Copycat Syndrome.
There’s something special about the start of a new year. Something exciting! Like there are fresh possibilities on the horizon!
Many steps are involved in making a great recording. Let’s go over the items needed in a successful recording project.
Since before the days of the snake-oil salesman, magic elixirs, and alleged wonder cures, Americans have invested multiplied billions of dollars hoping to find the panacea for their aches and pains
As we say goodbye to 2011, I started to think about all of the wonderful and not so wonderful things that have happened this year. It has seemed to be the year of never ending change and challenge.
The Expanded Bible, Signature Series is one of the newest releases from the Bible Division at Thomas Nelson Publishers. Although, this has released before, I am totally new to this particular work and am excited about sharing it with you today.
 Ah yes, September in the US – before you know it we’ll be rounding the corner of 2003 and racing toward 2004. But WOW! What a year we have had in the Spring Hill camp! Many Spring Hill artists have spent a portion of their year in the studio garnering new projects for their fans and giving audiences nationwide something special from the stage
 In Southern Gospel Music, the most glaring illustrations of houses built on sand are the myriad SG artists who are trying to build a career using inferior songs. I’m talking about groups going into the studio to create a CD with little or no regard to song selection
Since Thanksgiving is just around the corner, I thought I’d just share a few of the reasons I’m thankful for Jim and the blessings he is in my life.
If any of us treated our children the way our industry treats young artists, we would be in prison for child abuse. I believe one of the main reasons our industry is in such dire straits is that we have failed miserably as role models
An interview with Scott C. Todd, Ph.D., author of Fast Living: How the Church Will End Extreme Poverty
 Phil Cross began his songwriting ventures at age twenty-three and to this date has written between 350 and 400 songs, most of which have been recorded or published
This year, I once again, watched my parents face major health issues. At the beginning of the year, both of them were diagnosed with cancer. Yes, both of them. Hard to believe, isn’t it?
A young businessman stood one evening in 1945 in a revival meeting in Dallas, Texas, to give his testimony concerning God’s blessings in his life. The evangelist was Gene Martin, and in the audience was a famous songwriter, Ira Stanphill
 Radio airplay is the primary marketing outlet for gospel music. Stations pay for licenses from ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC and the proceeds are distributed to the songwriters and publishers. However, artists and labels have never been paid a performance royalty for over-the-air broadcasts
If you are already a musician, then meter may come naturally to you. But if you are a lyricist who does not play and instrument or read music, then you absolutely must become a scholar of Meter, if you ever want to create words that can be set to music.
Back in June of 1976, I felt led of God to leave "J. D. Sumner and The Stamps Quartet" and go into full time ministry. So I resigned the Tenor position with that quartet and followed what the Lord had told me to do
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Everyday there are enemies that want to destroy everything we received when we accepted Christ as Savior and Lord of our lives. These enemies come in many shapes, forms and sizes. I would like to address just a few of the most common ones.
When I joined the Speer Family as their tenor singer in January of 1991, they had just released the song HE’S STILL IN THE FIRE. Although I did not sing the radio version that went to #1 on the charts, I did get to record a live version of the song on the Speers 70th Anniversary album.
After we moved to Nashville, I began not only listening to Southern Gospel, but living it. When my husband started singing full-time, I spent A LOT of time listening to him practice the group’s songs and on the weekends we would go to any “singin’” (another word I was unaware of) that was going on close by.
Rarely in the history of hymnology has a composer been led to Christ by his own song, but such was the case with Ray Overholt. God literally picked him up out of the darkness and confusion of the nightclubs and brought him under his loving care
We’ve always had a fascination with the idea of a fairy tale romance. We’re drawn to it as little girls when we hear the stories of Cinderella and Snow White. We’ve been moved by movies such as The King & I, Ever After, Beauty And The Beast, The Prin-cess Diaries and The Princess Bride, just to name a few.
I am a “Yankee”……or a quasi one, at least. I was born and raised in the State of New Jersey, traditionally known as the “Garden State”. These days the State is better known as a State with the highest property taxes in the country.
Recently I was sitting in my Dentist’ office waiting to have my regular cleaning. Across from me was a young mother with a beautiful little daughter. The little girl was on the floor in front of her mom playing with a set of Legos.
When we think of love, we think of romance, quickened heart beats, moonlight and hap-pily ever after. It’s what fairy tales are made of and we grow up dreaming of the day when it will find us.
 On Easter Sunday, do not just celebrate the resurrection of our Lord. Rejoice because we are resurrected with Him. The Epistles tell us that He brought us out of death and the tomb when He came out
Technology is a wonderful thing. It has given us Color TV (my daughter can’t believe I grew up with a “Black and White” television) Microwave Ovens, Laptop computers, (which I’m using right now) Smartphones, and many more conveniences.
Over a span of two decades the songs of Gordon Jensen have been recorded more than 2,000 times, and have been translated into fifteen languages. In an interview in July, 2001, I asked Gordon to tell me how he came to write "I Should Have Been Crucified."
According to the CIA World Factbook (2009 edition), the life expectancy overall in the USA is 78.2 years (males 75.6; females 80.8). For some readers who have surpassed that age, congratulations are in order
 fasten your seat belt, because, like it or lump it, here is my opinion of the best Southern Gospel Songwriters of all time
As it approached its final destination, the plane began to veer far off its normal course. In just a short time, the plane flew into Russian airspace and crossed over the Kamchatka Peninsula, where some top-secret Soviet military installations were known to be located.
 I had the pleasure of meeting Lanny Wolfe a few weeks ago. Although I had grown up in California, and even taken piano lessons from one of Lanny's former students, I had never met the man who has written so many wonderful songs that have stood the test of time
I know we have all discussed this before in some form or fashion, but it seems to be a growing issue among people today. We have all heard the expression, “times, they are a changing”, well they certainly are
About five years ago I went to the Daywind publishing office to meet with Amy Shellem. My publisher had set up a writing appointment for us for that afternoon. This is something that is not out of the ordinary for me
George Younce might not illustrate it as twittering, Vestal Goodman might not call it a blog, and James D. Vaughan probably would not label it as a podcast.
So, this month, there are no words of wisdom. No suggestions on how you can better show love and appreciation to the special people in your life.
You know the older lady who never seems to be happy? You’ve met her. She’s the one who makes you get up and out of HER seat at church. She complains all the time, seems to have a permanent scowl on her face and when she walks by, little children run and hide in fear.
In my opinion, if Dianne Wilkinson accidently cut her finger she would bleed Southern Gospel music. “It is very dear to my heart”, she told me. She also loves her church, Springhill Baptist Church, in Dyersburg, Tennessee, pastored by her brother, James Branscum
It is easy to listen to a Gospel song and be moved by it. It is easy to enjoy the comforting words. But what it took for the writer to come up with those words of comfort may be a side of songwriting that very few listeners will ever understand
Too many times, We Christians are poor-minded. We concentrate on what's missing instead of what we have. The problem with this line of thinking is that it is unhealthy and wrong… VERY WRONG!
There is a Chinese proverb that says, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” This concept is easy to understand and really doesn’t need to be explained. It is a classic definition of “mentoring.”
Basic things that are important to singing well for a long time. The things I will be addressing in this article are Proper Rest, Proper Diet, Proper exercise, and Determination. .
My father was recently in the hospital to have a stint put in a blocked artery. I waited quietly in the waiting room. I prayed for my dad and the doctors. I read a magazine article
We all make mistakes. It’s part of the growth process. However, in my view, there is a difference between making a mistake and living in error.
I met Dr. Novell back many years ago when I was working with “The Stamps Quartet” back in the 1970's . He was involved with the music school that J.D. Sumner ran each year called at that time “The Stamps Music School” because it was owned and operated by “J.D. Sumner and The Stamps Quartet”
Though the Jonas Brothers no longer live there, there exists evidence of their one time residence in the house, things such as marks on the closet wall that noted the growth spurts of the various brothers.
Gordon Jensen stands out as a writer and singer that God has anointed to minister to the hearts of people everywhere. His songs address themselves to the deepest part of the spiritual man
When the Spirit of God is in full force, then style and personal taste have to take a back seat to what the Lord has in mind. And anything the Lord does is beautiful.
So if our commission is to GO OUT and bring them in, how will we be effective in our mission if we have concerts that are only attended by churchgoers and are presented in an auditorium instead of a church?
This month I want to say a few words of tribute about a couple of people who have been very important to my journey. They are J.D. Sumner and his nephew Donnie Sumner.
The purpose of this story is twofold, (1) to let you see the heartbeat of the songwriters as they struggle to make Jesus Christ Lord of their lives, and (2) to let Gloria Gaither tell you about the writing of this wonderful worship song
President Abraham Lincoln once stated that people are about as happy as they choose to be. Those are profoundly insightful words coming from someone who seemed to live a life embattled on every fron
When Bob Dylan wrote that lyric in 1963, it became the title to his third record album. Take note that I said, “record album”. Mr. Dylan had social change in mind when he wrote that song.
Have you ever tried so hard to make something work, and no matter how much time, effort, and love you put into it, it still didn't work?
I have decided to pay tribute, or give thanks where thanks is due, to the many people who have helped me through the years. I want to start as near the beginning of my journey as I can.
Have you ever received a phone call that left you with the feeling that you’d been kicked in the gut and you couldn’t breathe? I have.
When you are a kid, It's natural to find a "coach". It's common to sign up for karate, join the golf team, play football, baseball, basketball or even piano or guitar lessons
 I have decided to pay tribute, or give thanks where thanks is due, to the many people who have helped me through the years. I want to start as near the beginning of my journey as I can.
We can discuss all the things that are wrong with SGM. Everybody in America can write articles ranting and raving about this, that or the other. But nothing will ever change until the artists take control of their own destiny
 As we all know the music industry has changed drastically over the last several years. Music sales are down and the way we sell our product is rapid ally changing as well. Cd’s are quickly becoming a thing of the past in most genre’s of music
Is there anyone reading this who can relate to me? My wife, Abbie, passed away on January 30, and I’m working through emotions, the depths of which I have never experienced before. At times my sorrow feels like a saddle
The older more mature that always willingly carries the younger, needier brother without thought to the heaviness of the load. This is true everywhere except in Southern Gospel Music.
 If you are writing songs that you want other people to record then you need to become familiar with a few basic terms
 As I pondered what to do for Jim this year, I thought of the usual, Starbuck’s gift card, or something musical, such as a CD, DVD or Blu-ray disc. He would appreciate any one of those things, but I realize there are better gifts I can give, the ones that money can’t buy
I have heard a lot of debate over the last few years about whether Southern Gospel should use that name or something else such as American Christian music. The argument goes that the term Southern Gospel has a poor reputation and carries with it baggage
 I don’t want you folks to think that Nick and I are ganging up on you, but some of us older folks are concerned about the direction we as a genre are headed. When I listen to Southern Gospel radio, I quickly become disenchanted with the talent level and presentation of today
There is another side to the holiday season that is not so pleasant. It is the awareness that many people suffer some of their most depressing and distressing days during this otherwise festive occasion
There has been a tremendous amount of talk on the various message boards about dress codes and other such things as they pertain to Southern Gospel. I will not for a minute pretend I have all the answers to those issues
Every business opportunity sells one thing – the dream – the rewards and fruits of the effort. We’ve all likely received the same kinds of emails, about how Johnny or Matilda earned $10,000 in one month, the idea being that if they could do it…you can also.
This month’s article will be on speaker placement, as in what to do and what not to do. Recently, we have been working with several groups, who I have noticed, don’t set their sound system speakers in a venue for the best optimum results
There were also a few days when I didn’t see Jim until about 7 in the evening. In spite of the fun, there were a few days when Jim’s schedule got so busy, I just wanted to say “Give him back, I’m tired of sharing!”
Why are we so broke and how can we start making money instead of losing money? Why aren’t we seeing any results from radio promotion? Why is it so hard to find good places to sing?
I’ve heard it said that the goal of a successful group is to make fans. Wrong. The goal is to make die hard, sold out, life long fans. Here’s a great analogy that makes it clearer.
I have a friend who is not much of a sports fan "WHAT CHILDREN BELIEVE" is a great new song by Gold City. I fell in love with it the first time I heard it. Not long ago I sat down with the writer, Jerry Salley, for a co-writing session. We talked about a lot of things but soon our conversation turned toward things that children say
Please remember the Baizes in your prayers. Bill's 100 year old mother-in-law is gravely ill and they are on their way to be with her.
This year at NQC I saw dozens of groups trying as hard as they can to be like the big boys. They have a bus, a booth, a huge backdrop photo, a new CD, and of course, a new radio single. What they don’t have is…A CLUE…about anything
Each month I discuss marketing and how it benefits your ministry. This month I want to set that aside and talk about the real reason we need to market our ministry. Southern Gospel music is incredible
I have always been partial to one very good monitor on the floor in front of the vocal group rather than then multiple monitor arrangements I see so many times with other groups, both Christian and secular alike
 Clearly, one of the most dramatic developments in the modern (and postmodern) Christian church has been the emergence of the contemporary Praise & Worship movement and its renewed emphasis on personal and corporate worship
I will never forget the story about one of his students who came to him and asked him how long it would take the instructor to teach the man to sing properly. The instructor said “ it will take about 30 minutes for me to tell you all you need to know, and it will take the rest of your life for you to learn it.”
in the dressing room, trying on clothes, while he was right outside the door, ready with style advice and more options for her to try. He had just handed her something new to try on when the lady, who worked in the dressing room area, started crying
In the past few months our group has been on stage with several other Southern Gospel Groups who have, shall we say, ran their sound system a tad loud. In a couple of those situations the audience has shown their distinct disapproval by getting up and walking out
My voice has had to have upkeep over the 55 years I have been singing. I want to share some things that you need to do for your voice to keep it in workable condition for a long period of years
For years, I’ve heard people quote the old saying “opposites attract.” I’ve also heard that a couple in love is drawn together like the opposite sides of two magnets and in many respects, that philosophy is true
Many years ago I heard that no Dove Awards were given in 1971, but I never really knew why. So a few months ago I began to do some research. Here is what I have found.
September is one of my favorite times of the year. Football season is starting up, the air is crisp and it’s time for the National Quartet Convention. With the upcoming installment of this time honored event
I have covered most all of the basics and fundamentals of correct singing which will help you to preserve your voice. This month I want to talk about why God gave us the voices and talent to sing
Being a bit drained from way too little sleep has left me a bit crazy and giddy, but has got me to thinking of some crazy and oddly funny things that have been said or happened to us through the years. So in no particular order, here are few of those gems
One of the saddest stories in the Bible is recorded in the first few pages of history. It is the account of two brothers engaged in the initial case of sibling rivalry. It wasn’t to be the last.
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OK, it’s time for a moment of truth. Hold onto your hats folks ‘cause I have some big news for you.....Jim and I don’t agree on everything. I know, some of you have just fallen off your chairs because you thought we were the perfect couple
You should also know about a book that Priscilla McGruder recently wrote about her health crisis
Many have tried unsuccessfully to predict the identity of this enemy of all that is good and holy. Some have even contrived alphanumeric formulas to help solve the mystery and identify Satan’s super-salesman of sin
It has never been a secret to anyone who knows me that I am a big fan of the Original Hinsons. I've been reminiscing about them lately because I just found an old cassette tape in my garage while I was moving from the Nashville area over to East Tennessee
The underlying common sense in that statement is obvious; people won’t buy tickets to something they don’t want and they don’t like. It’s obvious to everyone except some people in places of influence in SGM
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard this uttered by a client or another artist in the business. They go on to tell me how they spent thousands of dollars and never saw any return on their investment. They ran print ads, radio ads and placed banners on websites and still no results
How many times have you looked back on a conversation and realized, in hindsight, that you could have handled it better, been kinder and been wiser in your choice of words?
I, for one, have had my fill of the blue jeans, long hair and country music “wannabees,” singing music that is not SGM pretending to be a rose, and I don’t believe I’m alone on this.
I say, “Bring back the red suits, short haircuts, shined shoes, and tried and true Southern Gospel Music.” I think one major reason that Southern Gospel songwriters and artists still make so little money is that they still are following the same business plan that Dolly had when she went to the street with her guitar
 Sadly in our industry, there are those who feel the need to attack groups that have kept up with the times in their musical style. If a group strays from the 1950’s model, then they are labeled as sell outs or not “real” Southern Gospel. That’s a very narrow minded approach
No matter what the cost, we must publicly and persuasively declare the unfiltered, undiluted Word of God to our generation. You see, friends, the Church is at war. We are being attacked by evil forces unlike any we have ever seen in our lifetimes
 I’ve always thought Charlotte Ritchie has a voice like an angel. I’ve had the honor and pleasure of working with her over the past few years and now that I know her, not only do I think she has the voice of an angel she has the heart of an angel
Growing up, I never found myself in fear that my parents would split up but they’ve told me stories of how their marriage was on the verge of divorce many times in the early years.
This month I would like to write about OBJECTS OF SINGING IN THE BIBLE. I am convinced that if we keep our focus on the object of our affection (God), and sing about His different attributes we will be ministering to every one that we sing to
If Southern Gospel Music changes into something else – I suppose there’s nothing wrong with that either, but just don’t keep calling it Southern Gospel Music. The Southern Gospel Music that started this industry was classic, classy and timeless.
We all have our accounts of when we reached out to someone who summarily ignored us. How many of us have left messages, emails, letters, faxes, smoke-signals, and any other viable communication medium only to be left dangling like a “Persona non-grata.”
“A picture is worth a thousand words” must have first been spoken by someone in marketing. Truer words could have never been spoken when it comes to marketing your ministry. Of course this “picture” comes in a variety of forms
 Last year I met someone and shortly thereafter felt a strong sense that I was on an assignment from God. It was as if God kept pointing out this person and telling me, "I've got one for you. Do your encouragement thing."
Just recently, I was sitting in church on a Sunday morning and noticed that the lady sitting in front of me had the tag on her shirt sticking out of her collar. I sat there in a dilemma. Do I tell her? Do I keep quiet? The service has already started...
I have found over the years, as a writer, that there is a huge need for up and coming groups to find GREAT songs for their new recordings. This is not an easy task. Most professional writers and publishers will pitch songs to new groups that are not signed to a major label
We are continuing onward this month discussing monitors, subs and how to deal with each. A lot has been discussed on Southern Gospel forums about how this one does this and how that group prefers this other method
Of all the qualities that are inherent in the life of the Christian, why did Jesus single out faith as the barometer He would use to evaluate us upon His return? The answer is simple: the longer we live, the harder it is see genuine faith in operation.
“Nick, the things you teach us are exactly in line with what I learned from my years at the corporate level of several major manufacturing companies, which is probably the reason we’re growing during a bad economy...but this group can’t make a recording because they’re chasing elephants.”
I’m amazed at the swift passing of time and although I’ve lived it, still find it hard to believe that Jim and I just celebrated our 16th anniversary. It seems like just a short while ago that he, a nervous, wide-eyed boy with a ring in his pocket, was taking me to dinner and singing to me as he proposed
I have found over the past more than 50 years that I have been singing, that there is a four letter word that needs to be discussed a lot with singers. It is one that they don't think about a lot, especially when they are on tour and doing a lot of programs, or services
Television, music, movies, magazines and the Internet are continually bombarding us with glamorized immorality. Where there used to be boundaries, there are none and what was once uncommon, is now “the norm” on the social scene
Because of what God told the Children of Israel, through the Prophet Jeremiah about Jacob and how they should" sing with gladness for Jacob"(IIsrael), I believe that God would also admonish us as Christians to SING WITH GLADNESS about our Lord Jesus Christ.
This month we will talk about what to do after the mixer on through to your power amplifiers. This will include graphic equalizers, crossover levels, power amplifiers and digital versus analog levels, as they are dramatically different.
I have described Dottie Rambo’s song writing as “seeing what was always there, but in a way that no one had ever expressed it before.” A perfect example of her ability to paint a word-picture is the phenomenal line, “This house of clay is but a prison, Bars of bone hold my soul.”
The definition of marketing is simply the promotion, advertising, pricing, distribution and branding of a product or service. If your goal is like mine and most singers of the Gospel, you want to reach the largest number of people possible
 Where would we be without God's grace and mercy!? I simply cannot imagine my life without His mercy! I have failed God miserably and somehow He picks me up and makes something beautiful out the messes I make! His faithfulness is steadfast
Retail music sales have declined steadily during the last nine years. Now the economy is in a major downturn and CD sales are slumping even more as consumers tighten their purse strings. Downloads are increasingly popular, but have yet to achieve revenue numbers
I also enjoy listening to some country music, some opera, a lot of bluegrass, and some pop music. However, when I want my soul fed, and when I need a blessing or a lift in life, I'll pick Gospel Music every time. The main reason being that the MESSAGE is what counts.
If our lives ran as perfectly as we wanted them to, some of us might start to feel after a while we'd have no need for God...or for a savior. I believe that each of us has at least one or two issues going on that can keep us before the cross.
The SGMAA is about artists. It’s about helping artists. For too long our industry has been run by self-serving individuals and companies who will smile and pat artists on the back with one hand while reaching into the artist’ back pocket with the other hand
Dokie is a very discriminating cat that is only moved by Southern Gospel Music. He is my kind of cat because I, too, am an avid fan of Southern Gospel. I am moved by both the message and the style of the greatest music this side of Heaven
I remember going to a concert here in Nashville in the early 1980’s to hear The Master’s Five Quartet. They were using a Bose sound system, and the first half of their concert was badly distorted. During the intermission, I eased over to Jake Hess and told him about the problem
There is so much for us to be distracted by and so many things that we can focus our attention on, worry about and become anxious about. There are many circumstances that are out of our control and the more information we receive, the more intense our fear may become
Most people are aware of the growth of digital music downloads. At this point in time, downloads are not a major source of revenue in gospel music. If trends continue as they have, this may likely change over the next 10 years
Much has been said and written about vocal blend, but very little has been said about how to obtain it. We have all known groups through the years, who have a wonderful harmony and blend, and there are others we can recall, who have little blend at all
In my opinion, if Dianne Wilkinson accidently cut her finger she would bleed Southern Gospel music. “It is very dear to my heart”, she told me. She also loves her church, Springhill Baptist Church, in Dyersburg, Tennessee, pastored by her brother
 So, last month, I started this dreaded internship with what is perhaps the best record label of any genre. There I was, in heaven, stuffing envelopes ...
 Entertainment or Ministry? Mankind has wrestled with this age-old question only to find themselves at odds over business and the call to minister. Let me just say, as always, this is just my OPINION. Anything more would put me in the self-proclaimed EXPERT category
How many times have we heard some athlete or celebrity herald this caveat in an attempt to explain why they were injured in a game, cut from the team, not re-signed to a contract, dumped from their TV role or some other equally unpleasant situation?
J.D. Sumner may have been one of the smartest men who ever lived. In one of J.D.’s cherished moments of pontification, he boldly asserted that, if you were an idiot before you got saved, you are now just a “saved idiot.” What unparalleled wisdom!
I just love cooking. I love watching Martha Stewart. I dream of being so organized “when I grow up” and think it must be true when she says something is “a good thing”. I also love to watch shows on the Food Network and fell in love with Paula Dean the first time I heard her southern voice
The phrase “passing the buck” means transferring responsibility or blame to another person. The phrase got started back in the second half of the 19th century when people played a lot of poker. There was lots of cheating going on, and so they would change the dealer with each turn
We are human and sometimes we "just wanna be mad for awhile." That includes us Christians as well. Take a look at a few comments on blogs or message boards and you'll see what I mean. We get a little too critical too quickly before we know all of the facts. Sometimes we direct that negative energy at people without thinking
Here's an old love story, Of a woman and a man, And a child sent down from heaven, All the way to Bethlehem, There's nothing new about it, It's all been said befor, But every time I hear it, I want to hear a little more
I am a “race horse” who lives in a world full of turtles. I love to gallop, except for when I can run at full speed. Deadlines and schedules are motivators for me. I don’t like “late-nicks.” My mantra is, “It is better to be fifteen minutes early than to be fifteen seconds late”.
When I was teaching in the Music School, I often taught a workshop on just what Gospel Music really is. I would like to address that very subject this month, because I believe in order to sing the music right, you must have the right music, and you must know what Gospel music really is
Most of the articles I have read have been more like advertisements from politicians running for office. The people in this industry who hold the reigns simply don’t care! The Government that is SGM has become a Communist Regime.
There is a logical and orderly method to succeeding in SGM and it works just like God’s law says it should…you start at the beginning and you grow from there. How does this compare to the current system in SGM? You know – Send a song to radio – Wait a few months – blah, blah, blah, blah
We need to look into our relationships and remind ourselves that this is important and definitely worth fighting for! We aren’t to be fighting one another, but rather fighting FOR one another.
Many think that getting your part is all there is to singing in a quartet. But, when you sing in a group for any length of time, you begin realize that if a quartet does not BLEND vocally, it will never really sound good, or minister to the crowd
The gift of encouragement doesn't require a paid position or an office. As this boat we are all in gets bigger, it's more important than ever for us to cover each other in support. We need to encourage one another to press on, continue to walk forward, hold fast to our gifts and never, ever give up
 I let you in on a private worship moment to let those of you who are perhaps living at mach 9 like I am currently that the Lord has you (us) in mind. He can be found in all of life if we just pay attention
As we here in the Houston area recently braced ourselves for the aftermath of Hurricane Ike, many residents were wondering aloud the age-old question, “Why do bad things happen to good people?”
Something truly amazing happened to me at this year’s National Quartet Convention. It was so truly amazing that it changed the way I look at everything
As Christian songwriters, we face a greater challenge today than we ever have. Time is running out. Jesus is coming again, SOON. We need to write NEW songs that proclaim that OLD message. But we can't just write the same old stuff the way we always have
This is definitely the most hurtful experience but it is from that experience that I changed my idea and perspective on the work of the ministry to what it is today. I no longer settle for what seems good but push to find out what is good and right and fitting.
This month I feel that I am writing about one of the most important elements of quality performance of songs before an audience. That is the element of INTERPRETATION such as how we express ourselves in front of the audience
The most important thing they learned was that cookies have to taste good for people to buy them. No matter how much you promote them…no matter how many ads you take out…the very first order of business is to make absolutely, positively, certain…
Remember what happened in the Garden of Eden when God exposed the sin of Adam & Eve? They quickly learned to play the blame game as Adam blamed his wife and Eve blamed the serpent
There are two great temptations that confront every Christian. Now, while you quickly try to pare down your list of allurements from the “Seven Deadly Sins” catalog to just two, remember, I did not say there were ONLY two temptations. I said there were two that every one of us faces
This transition was hard for me because it was a surprise and I wanted a chance to try to make the transition with the team that I had built. But, in retrospect I suppose that wasn’t in God’s plan and with the direction this church eventually took I know it wasn’t for me
 As fans and supporters, we need to do two things. One is to encourage the artists' work and talents. Let them know that what they do is valued and being used in the way in which it's intended. The other is to let God do the rest
The Bible, states and restates that Christ’s suffering as God’s sacrificial Lamb at Pilate’s Judgment Hall, followed by His death, burial, resurrection and ascension provided the “Double Cure” for humanity’s sin and sickness problems
I've been noticing that one of the hot topics these days is where Southern Gospel is going, and how to best describe it. There seems to be some disagreement as to what is "traditional", what is "contemporary" or "progressive", or even if those latter two categories should even be considered
 I know what it is to try to sing through allergies. These problems and the problem of the huge flu outbreak across the country have many singers reaching for the flu medicines and allergy pills to keep from sounding like frogs
I recently attended a high level committee meeting, with many of our SG leaders and it reminded me of the sad state of affairs in our nation’s Congress…leaders living in a bubble world, completely out of touch with the rest of the nation
We are smack dab in the middle of the infamous “rat race” and some days, it’s getting the best of us! On more than one occasion, we’ve felt worn out and a little overwhelmed at our schedules and all the while, we were promising ourselves we’d slow down, soon
REAL Southern Gospel is the greatest music this side of heaven…yet we keep trying to change it. We are allowing the Bizarro World infiltrators to make it progressive, or country, or contemporary, or heaven knows what next
Why do we feel that we have to throw the baby out with the bathwater? Why is it that something old seems to only have value when it has the word “antique” preceding it? Why do many of our worship leaders believe you must choose between either/or in song selection?
Since common sense is a vital ingredient to success, I’d like to offer my readers a Southern Gospel Music Common Sense Quiz to evaluate our industry. There are 10 questions with a simple “yes” or “no” answer. Take the test
A writer/artist told me, that if diesel hit $3.00 a gallon, they would have to park the bus and go into another area of ministry. Well, needless to say, that is exactly what happened. They could no longer break even, much less make a profit and a living
I cannot let this opportunity go by to write some of my remembrances of one of the all time greats of Gospel Music that went home to be with the Lord this month, Dottie Rambo. I want to dedicate the column this month to some of the memories that I have of this great lady of Gospel Music
 If you attend a lot of southern gospel concerts, this article is for you. Have you ever gone to a southern gospel concert and been disappointed with what you heard?
For the next few months I will be writing about transition. Seems vague, I know but specifically I will share stories of the various and sometimes hurtful transitions I have experienced while serving in church ministry
 I know everyone has felt the pinch with sky rocketing gas and diesel fuel. We are headed for some hard, hard times in the days to come. And, as promoters, we must be very diligent to continue to do things the right way in promoting Southern gospel music
For most of us, forensics and faith are never used in the same building, much less the same conversation. Society tends to see them as mutually exclusive. When it comes to our Christianity, it has seemed that the scientists scoffed at our faith and the people of faith were intimidated by science
When I can’t get to a show, I rely regularly on fan reports to learn how things went. Sometimes it’s a bit disappointing when the concert report I’ve been looking for consisted of only three words
It has now been one year since I moved to Nashville. I am indeed having a wonderful life out here. There are enough musical activities going on around town every night to make a person’s head spin
e are constantly trying to improve our craft and make the next song we write be the best song we have ever written. A lot of times, we can tell pretty quick if our new song is our best work or not. But sometimes it is not so easy to tell.
I got a call last week from a very discouraged and unhappy group. The recording they had saved up for turned out mediocre at best. Their company paid little attention to them and their career was going nowhere
"A box of chocolates and fuzzy slippers!" There are no greater creature comforts on the planet than these simple pleasures! There is a way to accentuate these pleasures, and that is to share those chocolates in your fuzzy slippers with your best friends!
My love , of and for this music, started back around 1953-54 when The Weatherfords came to my home church in San Fernando Calif. There was something about the melodies and the spirit that drew me into this wonderful sound
Mosie Lister once said, "I sweat blood over most of the songs I write. I work hard at making them what I think they ought to be.” Yet, Mosie admits that there are rare exceptions when the songs almost seem to write themselves
Why do I write the things I do? Why am I continually discussing things that, in my view, are wrong about Southern Gospel Music onsidering the fact that I am inherently a positive person? The answer is simple. I honestly believe, with all my heart, that I can make a difference
It’s no secret that relationships between pastors and worship leaders are unique. I think pastors and worship leaders alike would agree that this relationship dynamic takes a huge amount of effort and communication
All of us who travel while ministering in our services and concerts understand that we are in a time of unparalleled prices at the pump. It is a situation that demands our attention, concern and appropriate actions
 When I stop, and look at how the world is revolving and evolving, it makes me wonder how long before God says those words, "It's enough." The culture we live in has evolved way beyond anyone's imagination.
Most all beginning singers are lax in their pronunciation of words when singing. Sometimes it is caused by just plain laziness, and other times it is the outgrowth of colloquialism . That means that we sometimes pronounce words like they are pronounced where we live
Mosie Lister had the good fortune of growing up in a musical home. Very early in life it was evident that he was going to be a man of music. Yet, there was little indication in those early years that he was grow up to be one of the most influential men of Southern Gospel Music
I was listening to a new Southern Gospel song on the radio the other day, and I had to shake my head in disbelief. Another well known major label artist has released a brand new song with the same old cliches we've been hearing for years
Many of my close friends know one of my closest mentors was Tiny "Tip Toe Thru the Tulips" Tim. In 1985 he walked into a radio station I worked in at WHKY in Hickory,NC and offered me a job. I turned him down and continued my spiral into drug addiction and depression
The next generation is a viable and important thing but it is not independent of the current generation. In fact, the next generation is a functional and important part of this generation. No generation is exclusive to itself
The truth is that you can’t make a career out of headlines. At some point in time I will have to step up to the plate and actually hit the ball…and keep hitting the ball… in order to keep my job in the Big Leagues
According to God’s Word, we are presently no longer slaves to sin and Satan. We are now “more than conquerors through Jesus Christ.” The only way you can be under the devil’s control is if you allow yourself to be under his control
I’m seeing a different kind of “Yours, Mine & Ours”. Couples are drawing very distinct boundary lines within the life that they share. They say they love one another, and yet husbands and wives have begun living completely separate lives
Albert Brumley was truly one of the great Southern Gospel songwriters of all time, and his songs began reverberating across America in the early1930s. He was a great encouragement to millions of people who were enduring extremely difficult times
Instead of a shiny bus, you are traveling around in a beat up old motor home, or maybe a van or a pickup with a trailer. You are nowhere near the main stage at NQC, and you hear about all the fans that love SGM, but none of them ever seem to attend your concerts.
Kirk Talley has been singing for audiences for more than twenty-five years. Although known primarily as a Southern Gospel musician, Talley has been able to cross into traditional and contemporary Christian music
 As a very important election year comes upon us, I have been traveling all over the country listening to discussions in airports, boardrooms, studios, shopping malls and everywhere in between
The biggest problems that I see in today’s contemporary music interpretations are the problems of POOR PRONUNCIATION and POOR ENUNCIATION of lyrics. This causes me, many times, to not be blessed
We wonder why CD sales have slumped 15 to 20 percent every year for the past five years. The reason is that we simply are not competing with other forms of entertainment anymore.
As many of you know, we have learned over the last couple of weeks that Priscilla McGruder is facing another battle with cancer! We are so saddened to hear this and are praying diligently for her strength
Worshipers look for opportunities to honor God but sometimes the opportunities sneak up on them. Those are the authentic God moments in life that sustain and feed our faith.
 Lou and I discussed the passing of those "greats" and discussed who is filling their shoes. It's hard for me to imagine others being called "legends"
Decisions indicate choices are available. You find in life there are many “either/or” options you face. These contrasts are seen in the Bible as “eat/don’t eat, good/evil, God/ Satan, light/ darkness, right/ wrong, heaven/ hell, sin/ salvation, sand/rock”
One last concert memory. There's a very special framed picture in my home which was taken backstage at a Dallas, TX Gaither Homecoming concert of me with Taylor Mason, Mark Lowry and Anthony Burger
Songwriting is hard. If it was easy everyone would be doing it. Sometimes it seems like everyone is trying to do it. It's hard to believe how some songs ever make it to radio
Some fans manage to distort reality into their own fantasies, doing a very good job of convincing themselves, at least. I've been surprised to note that even gospel music also has its share of fan storytellers and potential fiction novelists
It is this author’s studied opinion that much of today’s sermonizing seems to be more like Simonizing; we simply gloss over the rust, the dings, the dents and the scratches in an attempt to “spit-shine” our imperfections and lack of holy living that is required by our Holy God.
We all begin the New Year with our list of resolutions taped to the refrigerator. Some of us succeed in meeting all of them, but most of us succeed with just a few. But a little success is better than no success when it comes to resolutions
For worship leaders Christmas can be excruciating. Productions, rehearsals, hours and hours of prep work, promotion in the community and…leading worship on Sundays of course. Christmas can be a very frustrating time to lead worship
I would like to encourage all of you who are singing for the Lord, to set your goals in 2008 to minister for the Lord in every way that you possibly can. I can tell you that if you truly want to do that, that He will provide for you in miraculous ways
For all of you “List Makers” and “New Year’s Resolutionists” I have an idea for you: Let’s make a resolution to love better. You may think I mean you should love more, and that would be good as well, but I do mean better.
Whenever people know they are wrong and can’t provide factual evidence to support their viewpoint, they revert to attacking the messenger. This works in politics, sometimes, but not with me. I really don’t care what you call me or what you say about me
It seems that we spend a lot of time discussing what is wrong with our industry. A lot is said about what needs be done to improve it. And I have joined in the discussions at times about what I felt was wrong with this industry
Over the years I have found myself the target of rumor, gossip and flat out lies. I even earned myself a National Enquirer story, a flash on Inside Edition and all the tabloid drama that comes with bad press. Today I look at bad press differently.
Having just celebrated Thanksgiving, my thoughts have turned to giving thanks. We’ve often heard that we need to live with a thankful heart, and that is true. But I realized that not only should we LIVE with a thankful heart, we also need to LOVE with a thankful heart
This is the time of year that we all look forward to the arrival of Christmas…The Advent season. In my home growing up, with few exceptions, the day after Thanksgiving the tree went up, the lights went on and Bing, Perry, Frank and Dean were crooning.
I would like to encourage each and every Gospel singer to sing about Jesus in order to grow the Kingdom. Never lose sight of this goal. No matter where you sing, whether it is in a Church or a Concert Hall, always let people know your reason for being there
One would be hard pressed to write a book of stories behind worship songs -- mostly contemporary songs -- and leave out the story behind Rise Again, written by one of the pioneers of the contemporary genre of Christian music
I glanced at my pocket calendar map of the U.S. the other day, the one in which I shaded in every state I've traveled to, lived in or just passed through. My current count of visited states is 21 (yes, I've gained another since last I spoke about this!).
Christmas is such a wonderful time to study the difference between the “divinity” and “deity” of Jesus. There is a vast difference, which seems to have escaped the awareness of many people. When the Christ-child was born in Bethlehem, He looked like us but He would live like God
Let me tell you what drives me crazy… networking or “working the room” at the most inappropriate time and place. I mention this first because this is so prevalent in gospel music. Here’s my primary example: A FUNERAL IS NOT AN INDUSTRY EVENT!
Many of you don’t have a clue. You don’t understand the recording process, radio promotion, marketing, booking or business and finance. You know very little music. This ignorance makes you an easy mark for those in SGM who will take advantage of you
Today I would like to talk about the way to attack tones, when you are singing. There are some tones that need to be attacked gently in songs. We have all sung songs where we need to attack tones in a lighter manner than usual.
 What are some stereotypical adjectives you would use to describe those employed in the Creative or Performing Arts? Eccentric…Emotional… Unpredictable…Moody…Temperamental…Reclusive…Ethereal…Weird…?
If you want your marriage to last a lifetime, you have to continue showing love to your spouse. Continue to make them feel attractive and special. Show respect and admiration. Let them know you still think they are strong and capable. Make them feel loved on a daily basis
I am not ashamed to say that for several years my goal was to open my refrigerator and be able to eat. I know a huge battle for me later in my career was food addiction. I starved for so long that when I could eat I ate all the time because I could
I know many of you are preparing for NQC and the fall to usher in another changing season. I have been busy this month finishing some of the American Idol audition cities and fighting a lot of setbacks in our Nashville office. We recently were attacked by a hacker
 I want to say, the thing that really has my attention today, is what I consider the worst thing in our business
An intelligent and marginally creative person can possibly establish, explain and theorize the complexities of a thing or topic. But, a truly creative and studied person can take the intricacies of the complicated thing and make them plain and knowable
The ALMIGHTY GOD is not a “half-mighty” God. He did not just go halfway at Creation. Birds do not just have one wing, lions do not hobble on three legs, the earth doesn’t wiggle on its axis and man did not get just one arm, one ear or one eye.
So you’re a fan of an artist or a group, you’re enjoying the music, you’re in touch with other fans sharing your joys and experiences. Maybe you’ve made contact with artists and they know you by your face or name. Then one day, it all changes or goes sour
I left this year’s NQC with mixed emotions. On the one hand, I thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship of lifelong friends, but I also left with sadness in my heart and a great many unanswered questions. I know the Lord will help me deal with the sadness, and maybe some of you can provide the answers to my questions
Proper breathing is the main foundation for all quality sound production from the human voice. Inhalation is important as I have explained before, however, exhalation is what makes the actual sound ,as the exhaled air passes over the vocal cords
It's not the glamour job it may appear to be on the surface. But, it can be very rewarding to know that by simply being behind the table and helping to sell product, you might play a small role in leading people to an artist who may impact their lives.
 I get a kick out of reading what people put on their car, especially the ones with bumper stickers all over the backside.
How do I get my song heard? That question has been asked by every songwriter who ever picked up a pen. I've never met a writer yet that wanted to stock pile his or her tunes in a closet, piano bench or dresser drawer, and never let anyone hear them
Since his professional career began, Otis has played on over 3,000 albums. Including, but certainly not limited to, groups such as The Trav’Lers, Blue Ridge, Cathedrals, Kingsmen and over 20 albums for the Inspirations
 Watch a video log of a recent trip with Johnny Minick and Friends, Allison Durham Speer, Mike Allen, Aaron Minick and Sherry Minick.
Many friends and family gathered at the podium to share something about Allan & Alma, and I found myself more drawn into their lives as I heard how they have spent the last fifty years not only loving one another, but also loving those around them and making a difference in their lives
The McGruder’s new project By the Book was released at the UPCI General Conference in Tampa, FL. It has already been a product in demand! Their single “Heaven Too” has also shipped to radio on the Zion Compilation #41
There are many versions of “the going home song” that have found their way into our hearts and hymnbooks. Most of them invoke the use of symbolism to convey their message. We have songs about the crossing, the river, crossing the river
There seems to be so much offence among Christians over lyrics that do not blatantly and elementally spell out the gospel. Must our lives be lived wearing Christian t-shirts, our vehicles bearing Christian bumper stickers and constantly carrying a pocket full of tracts
How many times in your life can you think of that a small, everyday action you took ended up having a life changing effect on you? For me, it was simply changing the channel on my TV set. One Saturday evening I came across a gospel music group singing in front of a live audience.
I’m watching lots of “Newbie” artists doing lots of stupid things and these stupid things are destroying their career before it even gets started. I’m not talking about a mistake. Everyone makes mistakes. “Many a group has bit the dust, simply because they bought a bus”.
What are you passionate about? Your sweetheart? Your children? Your job? Your church? Those are all good things and we should be passionate about them, but some of us are passionate about things that aren’t so important
I have found in my experience that those who proclaim themselves as leaders seldom are. Self proclamation or position does not a leader make. A leader is made by those who follow. A leader does not lead until his followers are willing and able to follow.
Marriage is all about finding that someone who makes your heart skip a beat, who brings out the best in you and who makes you feel safe in this crazy mixed up world. When you find “the one” for you, you're home.
The days are over where radio promoters can legitimately be trashed and degraded by self proclaimed industry healers
We are so excited about the newest release from The McGruders! Its release is scheduled for the first week of September! It is entitled "By the Book"! You will want to reserve your copy immediately! It is such an incredible project and is worthy of your attention
I want to encourage each of you to keep a right spirit. If the song is presented louder than you like, or in a style that may not be your cup of tea, just hold on. Someone else may be getting blessed by it. Don't ever stand in the way of anyone else's blessing
The truth is that many SG artists are ill prepared to be SG artists and are not doing anything to get better. We have lots of artists, but only a few that can “Deliver the Promise.” And that is the reason consumers and the music community perceive us as an inferior genre
I have found myself less patient with back bitters and two faced people. I know as a Christian we need to embrace others, no matter their downfalls or shortcomings. But, all my life I have found myself raised around two faced people
There are many facets to what we call worship but the method most people refer to when they say “worship” is music and that within the corporate gathering. It is in this environment that Sunday after Sunday the purpose and practice of “worship” are in conflict
Mosie Lister thought it good to write a cheery song about heaven -- the part about departing this world. A great portion of the Southern Gospel Classics are songs about heaven or the cross of Christ
 That’s exactly how I feel about what I do for a living….I don’t even really consider it a job because Southern Gospel Radio is the coolest job in the world. We’re where the listeners meet the artists…where the advertisers meet the listeners…but most importantly….where everybody can meet Jesus Christ
I must give kudos to Southern Gospel music for holding to the truth that we have a Burden Bearer. Tried and true songs with lyrics like, "Leave them there, leave them there, take your burdens to the Lord and leave them there…"
Being part of fan communities can be rewarding… and life changing. You meet lots of people, find long-lasting friendships, important networking contacts, and even discover talents and interests you never knew you had
In your daily life, live in the shadows more. Take a break. Enjoy your success. If it be raising a good child, cleaning your entire house, or taking over your musical dreams, stop and be thankful. Slow down and heal.
Poor Jim has either been on the road and worried about me, or at home trying to be both nursemaid and housekeeper when resting up from the road life was what he needed and deserved. It has caused me to think a lot about the vows we gave to one another on our wedding day, "in sickness and in health"
artists need to be careful to not elevate certain fans over others. In many cases, fans know each other and can be very perceptive. They can pick up on it when it looks like an artist is playing to an audience of one or two where it's actually a full house
All breathing is natural, but when you sing you need to take advantage of the most natural, although somewhat less obvious, parts of breathing that enhance your ease of singing, tone quality, and duration of time that you can sing without wearing out
People who are talented at several things usually have quite a problem deciding what they should do for God's kingdom. If they attempt to do things for God in an area that the Holy Spirit has not called them to do, then it will be of little effect
Mike and Kelly Bowling have recently recorded "We Have a Savior" written by Carroll McGruder. The McGruders and the Bowlings recently spent time together at Oak Valley Studios preparing introductions for the new radio single
I could accept the fact that when someone else sings my song, they are going to make it their own. If I had given up writing because what I wanted didn't come wrapped up in the kind of package I preferred, then I would never have had a career in Gospel Music
One of the most important aspects of being a "fan" for me is the ability to give the artists encouragement. Having dealt with artists at all levels, both in Nashville and elsewhere, I've learned that no matter who you are and where you're at in your career, encouragement is necessary
In a society where everything is disposable, and where we are constantly made to feel as if we can only be satisfied with something new, divorce has become way too common. Couples aren’t getting divorced just for the big things, they are getting divorced simply because they feel they need a change
The McGruders just started their brand new project. I heard the tracks being recorded this week and I can tell you that this is a project that will NOT disappoint you! They just continue to record music that ministers, comforts and gives hope!
Recently I finished two DVDs for the late Roger Bennett and with that came much reflecting over the times I have shared with him through the past nine years. Roger was sick for 11-1/2 years. I simply cannot put myself in his position and understand what he and his family had to deal with
(Termites) not the little bugs that eat away secretly and privately behind your back at the very important beams that hold your entire house up. But, the termites within the industry that have nothing better to do than circle the famous and pick apart
I do not intend to be completely presumptuous here but I think I can say with some confidence that most of us have probably known someone either directly or distantly that we have made the following comment about, “What a waste of good talent…”
John Stallings, a Georgia native from the small town of Griffin, near Atlanta, was only sixteen years of age when he began his songwriting career. He has had fifty of his more than 180 songs published. He is a self-taught musician who travels as a singing evangelist.
Every time I get a letter, I get inspired to keep going. Every time I can help a group see the truth about where they are, and where they could be, I get blessed. Every time a group gets delivered from the greedy clutches of some company it is a victory
I vividly remember a night back in the late 60’s when The Trav’Lers and the Blue Ridge Quartet were in concert together. I was fresh out of college and was living the dream. I had been chosen to play piano for a great, professional group
I recommend to practice singing a song and your warmups at least once or twice a week in front of a mirror and watch your posture closely to analyze how you feel when you are doing it correctly and to duplicate that feeling in your body when you are singing on stage
 We, promoters try to find somewhere to place the blame for unsuccessful events when the blame falls squarely on us. But in the four years that I have served as SGPA President, I can truly say that I believe our industry is truly headed in the right direction.
Music is a tool that empowers us with to spread the Gospel. Music should never be who we are. Who we are should resemble God a little bit more everyday. Let us use the gift of music to let the world know they have a life, a hope, and a future
Our lives sometimes feel just like that pressure cooker. And if we are not secured just right, we can let the whole world know all about the pressure that is building up inside us. We can complain, wiggle and squirm, gripe and fuss about anything and everything
Did you ever turn on your radio and hear a Southern Gospel song that was just awful?
When it's done right, being a fan can be an incredibly fulfilling experience. It can even become life-changing, as it was for me when I relocated to Nashville from the Midwest, thanks to some friends I made via Mark Lowry's Senior Trips
By now, you all know that Jim and the guys were stranded for three days in a snow-storm in Wyoming. I found out about it because our manager, Bob, received a call from a man at the Wyoming Department of Transportation saying he had a message from Jim
Serving the Church in the position of Musical Director or Worship Leader goes way beyond being a “fan” of a particular type of music. If that is the basis of your church music ministry you have failed before you have even begun
Are any of you out there like me? Do you have a love-hate relationship with cell phones? Are you thankful for this modern convenience but at the same time, often wish it didn’t exist?
The things that I will be writing in this column will be all information that I have studied over the years as well as during my college work prior to my joining the Stamps in 1971. These are things that I have found, through study and trial on the stage
 I looked around at our society today and I truly believe we need some heroes, some people who are willing to step up and say “I am willing to take personal responsibility and let my life shine as an example”.
It’s easy for us to sit back and place the responsibility for changing our industry on the shoulders of industry leaders and publications, but the changes that will save our industry must start with you – the SGM artist
Even though you may be writing your songs in English, always remember that certain words can mean different things to different people. Even though we all speak the same language, we are separated by regional, cultural, and even denominational differences
Do not book an artist just because you like them. Be sure that you book a group that is popular in your area. Check with your local gospel radio stations and ask what they are playing and which groups are requested most.
A writer has to constantly be soaking in new information and revelation if he or she wants their songs to remain fresh
I looked out the front door of the auditorium and saw three funnel clouds in the sky. A tornado was headed directly toward our church. I could see roofs of homes being ripped off and spun around in the sky
When the move toward contemporary praise and worship music began over 25 years ago, I was not very impressed with the songs, especially as they pertained to a worship service. But my opinion at that time was based solely on my distaste for the style
I just returned from the Jubilee At Sea Cruise – and it was an awesome time! A few weeks before going, in an effort to see if folks from some of the talk lists and forums were going, my question started a huge debate over whether folks going on a Christian cruise were being ripped off
When calling the roll of those who have been in the forefront of the world of Southern Gospel Music, Harold Lane, a veteran singer and songwriter, is not the first name mentioned, but his popular songs have been recorded and sung by thousands and heard by millions
We are all vulnerable, we are all human. Even though I tell my clients to be skinless it is sometimes hard to hear and live within your calling as you are plummeted with anger, rage, lies and jealousy. I sometimes feel like we as an industry are at war with each other.
This article came to be after Jim and I recorded a love song Cd filled with songs that we’ve written for each other, and also for friends and family when they were married. As we’ve sung these songs all over the country, we’ve been able to share with folks
The Holy Spirit declared through Paul that each child of God is “highly favored”. God conferred this favor upon His Church through Jesus Christ. The same degree of God’s favor has been conferred TO ALL who are in the Body of Christ.
Our industry's direction is influenced by a handful of people who refuse to let go of the past. They make silly rules about who can sing and who can't
Our industry has lots of problems, and I’m not sure if they’ll all ever be corrected, but the one thing that is still beautiful is our music. People love our music….they’re just tired of having to dig through the brambles and thorns and thickets to find it.
You may find it strange to know that His Will isn't always done on the earth and He certainly is not in control of everything on the earth. If He were, the jails and hospitals would not be full while many churches are empty.
There is a growing theological concern that has arisen since the idea of “Generational Curses” has been renewed. Numerous books have been written about this subject with the intent of helping Christians understand why we act the way we do.
In Soldier Field, before Gypsy Smith was to speak, a five-year-old lad was helped to the platform to sing God Bless America. His name was John Stallings and he would later become a talented singer, songwriter, pastor and evangelist. His songs would one day be sung by George Beverly Shea, the Billy Graham Crusade Choir, Kenneth Copeland, Jeannie C. Riley, and Bill Gaither,
When a writer has poured their heart and soul into something new, sometimes we expect everyone to feel the same way about it that we do. The truth is, that seldom happens. Even when you write a great song, and people react favorably to it, they seldom feel exactly what you felt
In recent weeks I’ve had several occasions to see and hear the Kingsmen, during that time I took the opportunity to talk with three of the younger members of the group, Nick Succi, Grant Barker and Jeremy Peace.
 February, in the “marketing and retail” industry, is a month that is focused on expressing your affection toward those close to you. Valentine’s Day, Sweetheart Banquets, Love Notes, and assorted “Love-grams” will be the attraction of the masses
I asked 500 industry people (artist, labels, radio stations, managers, agents, magazine employees, Internet hosts, and bookstores) this same question. Who is smoking HOT at their talent? Some I was surprised were totally overlooked. But, here is how the questions and answers came in-
Have you noticed how we Christians seem to treat the Principles of God like a treadmill? We get very excited at first and cannot wait to get on our sweats and crank up the exercise machine. We tell everybody about our “State of the Art” treadmill
In Southern Gospel Music, many of our artists have learned little tricks to help them get by instead of learning the basic elements of their music.I don’t fault the artists, they are the life-blood of our industry, but I do hold our leadership accountable for their failure
Life doesn't stop for any of us. And on our search to become more independent, wealthier, more plentiful, something is happening. Life! Life is passing us by and we are allowing ourselves to be filled with broken pieces, lost dreams, hopes, and worlds of negative programming
When I was a child I heard of a man who put out a list every year of the worst dressed entertainers of that particular year. It was kind of fun to see who made the list. It was all done in good humor, and it was funny to think that someone would spend time to award the sloppiest of the sloppy
After leaving the meeting I noticed this little family of three. As we drove by I asked the driver to turn around so I could watch these folks. We pulled over and watched as this mother, who was probably 16 years old, changed her baby's diaper
 I have heard some people say at various concerts and industry events they are concerned for the future of Southern Gospel Music. Some seem to feel the fan base of our music is “dying off
I’ve noticed in recent years that there are things that can quickly escalate into disharmony when they begin to be discussed; hair/appearance/dress. If you want to draw a line in the sand quickly start a discussion on this with a group of SGM artists and/or fans
There is an old cliché in advertising and marketing that simply states "sex sells". The idea is, whatever product you are marketing, if you can link it to a sexual thought, it is more likely to sell
Southern Gospel Music is suffering from M I S…Missing Ingredient Syndrome. Something is not quite right…we look good and smell good, but we’re not passing the “taste test”…somethin’s missing.
 I think that in the field of Gospel Music, we sometimes tend to zero in on one particular attribute about God, and stay there. For instance, there are some writers that write only Praise and Worship Music.
In fairness to the consumers and in the interest of abiding by the Federal Full Disclosure Act, we should call ourselves “The Southern Gospel Screaming Industry.”
I personally believe that promoters are responsible for keeping the buses rolling and the artists’ payrolls coming. Would an airline have a convention and ignore the pilots? So, why do we have a Gospel Convention and ignore the promoter?
The crime scene is set, the guns and knives are the invisible word of mouth
Every Christian songwriter eventually deals with this question, what am I going to write about?
It’s been said that “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” but my whole philosophy is that “The old dogs should be teaching the new dogs the old tricks and be willing to learn some new tricks themselves"
Life seems to be filled with “either/or” situations. In the realm of politics, sports, entertainment and even religion, choices must be made that are non-negotiable. You either “love it or “hate it”
When tasked with the issues concerning copyright, it can be downright confusing to try to understand which royalty is paid to whom, which form is used to register a recording, or what measures can be taken if someone infringes a copyright
I try to be the person I would like to meet today. The person that makes me feel better about myself. Someone I can go to and they will shoot straight and be honest. No matter the season, it's still our job to be real, to be honest and faithful to our calling.
I’ve been writing my articles and telling the truth, intentionally trying to stir up dialogue. I’ve been especially hard on the new guys...trying to whip them into shape, and steer them away from the pitfalls
I always enjoy hearing new groups and new songs for the first time at NQC. And this year I got to hear some great songs by some new writers that you may not yet be familiar with, but I'd like to introduce you to them
The conversations during NQC, they run from the serious to the unbelievable! I heard artists giving encouragement to fans and other artists. I heard the complaints and the praises. Isn’t it amazing what people will say in a crowded place and actually think no one hears them?
There is a song entitled “There’s A New Name Written Down In Glory”. That title can now include Paul Boden. Paul moved into his Heavenly mansion on Sunday, September 17th around 8:00 p.m. Heaven’s gain was Southern Gospel Music’s loss.
Everyone, at some time, becomes acquainted with delays, put offs, postponements and deferrals in their life. It seems the more we want something, the more frequently we experience a roadblock in our path. In the spiritual realm, Satan is a master of delays
Mylon LeFevre has had a most unusual life, as a soldier, a songwriter, a singer and a gospel preacher. He was born in Gulfport, Mississippi, in 1944, and was one of five children born to Gospel Music Hall of Fame members, Urias and Eva Mae LeFevre
Kevin and I are extremely excited to announce a new addition to our family! Kyle Edward is 8 months old! We are adopting Kyle and he is such a joy to our lives! He has his dad’s beautiful red hair and my eyes
Everything from group changes to new projects to NQC on the net has been featured on the various websites. And opinions there is no shortage of those, from the ridiculous to the cruel
Have you ever wondered how far it is to Heaven? It is a real place, you know. People actually go there every day. But how can we get some sense of perspective on just how far in outer space Heaven is located?
What's It All About, Alfie? That has to be one of the most memorable hook lines from any song that was written in the 20th century. Even if you don't know any other line of the song, most of you could sing that one line.
I have started this column several times, and each time I hit the delete button. I figured what a perfect time to identify the fakes amongst us
We are so blessed to have the NQC each year. Let’s all go to Louisville with the right spirit and attitude. And, show a little patience if we have to wait a few minutes for our food, or if our room is not ready the minute we arrive
 The NQC came and went as it does each September and in talking with people you always get a mixed bag of reactions most of which end up centered around the Singing News Fan Awards
Questions about the Crabb Family, older Southern Gospel Music, Blackwood Brothers Plane Crash, and Gerald Wolfe
The scientists of the world are worried about Global Warming. I am concerned about Christianity cooling. We're more concerned about letting society evolve than we are letting Jesus be involved. I am just ready for us to see what is real
I'd have to say that when it comes to Southern Gospel Radio, it appears that we might have a whole new saying we've invented all by ourselves – “If It Is Broke, Just Ignore It And Hope That It Will Fix Itself
I do not use any local talent on any of my concerts as my crowd will not accept that. You ask how does a group go from a local group to a concert group? Well, some do not. But to earn a spot on concerts a group must be able to draw ticket buyers
I know I won’t get a lot of Amens or agreement on this but when are we going to realize that another genre of music isn’t the enemy – satan is!!!!! Now he can use CCM, SGM or any other genre where there are people willing to be used
I had several beginners who had not yet written their first song. And I had a few more that had only tried writing two or three songs so far. I really do enjoy working with beginners, because they have not written enough yet to develop any bad habits
I have been looking over the new Southern Gospel Songs that charted in 2005 and to be quite honest, I am disappointed. I think 2005 will stand as a banner year for some of the most forgettable songs ever published and recorded.
Zion is pleased to release the newest Dunaway project and their first release on the Zion Music Group label! The project is entitled Revival and the pre-release copies are already getting an overwhelming reaction
If your planning a career in music or a high stress position. Deal with your past, your egos, your losses, your insecurities. Don't take your insecurities and pain out on your career. It's OK to channel that energy and work towards repair
I have discovered that the more new ideas that I incorporate, the larger my attendance becomes at my concerts. I urge everyone not to be afraid to try something new. You never know, it might just work. I am doing less and less grumbling and complaining
I’m glad my daughter loves gospel music and she wants to hear the music. I often ask my self, ‘why do some young people love it and others don’t, even kids who are raised in church, who have Christian parents?’ I think I know part of the answer
As you begin writing in 2004, keep this thought in mind. Make sure your lyrics are Biblically based
Not paying our songwriters is the same as stealing from them. Using a writer's song without paying is essentially the same as not paying for your gas, your groceries, etc. etc…..get the idea?
Christian music does not mean that you are always dealing with Christian people. Sometimes we have to deal with Christian people who have very un-Christian business practices.
Every time I help an artist chart their first record, or get to hear their song on the radio, it gives me a flash back of my first days in the music industry when I was excited
I seek to debunk the myth that records are not being made today. I will discuss the inner workings of a great record. I will ask the questions, "Who should make records?
In 1993 I had the privilege of attending the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, with the Speer Family. It was an experience and an event that I will never forget. Everything that happened there was new to me. The Speers had been to the ceremonies before, but this was my first trip with them as a nominee
Contrary to what many are saying, SGM is not on its death bed. Do we still face issues? Of course we do. But we face issues in our everyday life as well. Our physical bodies, for example, become weak and sluggish. What do we do?
Whether you're called to do Southern Gospel, or just have a desire to sing, be a good steward with your talent. Don't carry an ego, don't stay angry at the fellow artists and companies for their successes, lift up as many as you can on your way up
 It’s been years since Living Sacrifice has had a full band accompaniment, but August 7 they had a band like never before
The battle for Truth has been raging since the Garden of Eden. The serpent challenged God's warning to Adam about the forbidden fruit. Since Eve was not yet created and did not hear this warning from God about the tree, it was Adam's responsibility to insure she understood the Truth of God's Word
One of the mistakes I see some promoters do is to emcee their own show (if I may call it a show) even tho they cannot use the voice as a command to get folks attention and create the enthustic applause necessary to properly introduce a group to the audience
As life gets busier and busier for us I wonder if we all need a Simon Cowell to tell us the things most wouldn't dream of saying. Should I begin to take control of the negative things in my life? Sure why not. But, where do you start?
We as Christians, whether in SGM or not, must care for the wounded. We must learn to show love and compassion to those that have fallen. We need to help them be restored and work together to carry the gospel- the good news of forgiveness
In a recent correspondence with someone very dear to me, the controversy over the book about the DaVinci Code came up. A simple and sincere question was asked of me. I have tried to respond to this question and the collateral ones that followed with a brief overview of biblical perspectives
We need songs! This is a statement that is music to a songwriters ears. We love to hear an artist tell us that. But really what the artist should be saying is "we need GREAT songs that fit us".
As a child Squire Parsons would sit with a reel-to-reel tape recorder and practice singing into it. He would sing the lyrics of a song as well as the syllables of the shaped notes in the music, a method of singing developed by Ephraim Ruebush and Aldine Kieffer in the mid-1800s
How do I find a Publisher? This is a very common question. It has a few close cousins which include, "How do I get started in the Music business", and "How do I get someone to listen to my songs". These seem to be eternal questions.
I'm the worlds worst when it comes to taking surveys and self-help quizzes; it's too easy to fudge on the answers. I know as well as you do that the value comes in responding truthfully, or else the test is worthless, and there is nothing gained.
No one should doubt for a moment the degree of excruciation that Jesus suffered for our salvation. Poems, pictures and movies have graphically depicted the horrific scourging and crucifixion that He endured for the sins of humanity.
Twas the night before Easter and all through the land, The demons were celebrating their bold crucifixion plan. The Disciples were hiding, all huddled in fear, Nervously won'dring if their end was near.
 I believe we're now up to five confirmed readers (besides my mother). That makes me feel like I'm not really making a difference
 Christians especially can be overwhelmed with temptations and daily struggles. This is where the music comes in. It gives hope to the hopeless
After writing over 500 hit songs, singing with Elvis, recording country, rap and gospel, JD Sumner will forever be a part of history. I will forever cherish his friendship and trust in me.
As a DJ, one who promotes gospel music, has certain advantages. One of the advantages is contact with the people who attend the concerts. You learn to appreciate each comment whether it is positive or negative.
People love to cheer for the little guy. People like to see someone with talent make it to the top. I’m people and I love to see people with talent make it to the top
I shall never forget my interviews with Dottie Rambo, a gracious soul who gladly shared the stories behind her wonderful songs. To date she has penned approximately 2,500, many of which are standards, and classics
I said good-bye to a friend yesterday. I met Anthony Burger in 1975. We were both fourteen years old. It was intimidating to say the least. He was already quite an accomplished musician.
It seems that a lot of people dream of being successful in the music industry, but don't have a clue as to what is required for that to happen.
Just mentioning the word "Antichrist" starts the wheels of conjecture spinning. Nothing seems to spark a lively debate any faster than broaching this subject
We are excited about two new additions to our Zion family of artists!
Mosie Lister has had a varied musical career, as a singer, songwriter and vocal arranger. All three of those gifts from the Lord were evident very early in his life.
I have a dream that someday the various segments of our industry, Radio, Retail, Record Companies, Record Promoters, Booking Agents, Talent Promoters, Magazines, NQC, will actually communicate with one another and be united in forming a plan to move SGM forward
Troy and Katy Peach are expecting twin baby boys in a few weeks. They are having a hard time selecting names so we thought we would run a contest
When one of our top groups walked out on stage the little girl whispered to her mother, "I can feel my heart fluttering while they sing". The mother replied to her, "That's God trying to speak to you"
One of the saddest stories in the Bible is recorded in the first few pages of history. It is the account of two brothers engaged in the initial case of sibling rivalry. It wasn't to be the last.
Snakes! Just the word can strike fear in the heart of even the bravest. Nearly everyone has heard a snake story at some time. Snake stories always seem to have a bad ending
When we think of Southern Gospel Music, immediately names such as Mosie Lister, George Younce, Bill and Gloria Gaither...
Dianne Wilkinson loves her Southern heritage, her Southern Baptist church and her Southern Gospel music, but not necessarily in that order. She was born in Blytheville, Arkansas, in 1944, a hop, skip and a jump from Memphis
In Southern Gospel, music is being stolen every hour of every day
I was thinking how much things would change if the people who were telling lies in Southern Gospel Music were the ones who had to suffer the consequences for their lies, rather than those of us who are trying to tell the "truth
It's funny to me though, we anticipate the arrival of the holidays, seeing family and friends, planing charity events and celebrations, and taking time off from work but after we do all of that we get "down" or "the blahs".
There has been a lot of discussion in our industry about our "traditional" dress. Here we are facing some of the most troubling times our nation has ever faced, and we are discussing, not Bible, but religious Tradition
Having grown up in a "Mom and Pop" grocery business in the ‘50's and ‘60's, and seeing that era pass from the scene, I wonder will the "Mom and Pop" promoters face the same demise?
I keep hearing, "Would you prefer talent or screaming singers?" Well, I would prefer REAL singers over the over-produced
Along our journey, we received a wonderful surprise. Troy and Katy found out they were expecting a baby and then we found out she was carrying twins!
I am convinced that songwriters are the most defensive people on the planet. When I was working for a full time publisher, I had to deal with a lot of unknown writers
We have lots of young groups (kids) who are so enamored with the candy known as “The Top 80 Charts”, and getting their name on the chart, that they are suffering from sugar overdose
I think it will be curious to see over the next year which direction things turn for the SG industry. I think we're at a definite turning point right now
 Here is the final "Sound of Southern Gospel" It's more of a going away thing....
Inspiration is a necessity for a Songwriter. There has to be and inspired idea before there can ever be a melody or a lyric. How does a songwriter stay inspired?
I wonder why it is the average age of people who attend Southern Gospel concerts is around 57½? What’s going to happen when all of these faithful supporters of the Southern Gospel industry pass off the scene?
I'm getting really tired of the attitude that so many in SGM have that the commercial aspect of our BUSINESS is “SINFUL”. We have allowed the line between BUSINESS and MINISTRY to become so blurred that we don't know what we are
 The voice is a powerful tool that God chooses to use and what a blessing it is when it is our voice that has been chosen. Along with the calling comes a great responsibility
There is a striking resemblance between illegal immigration in america and the world of Southern Gospel Music
I want to encourage you to write songs that will have a lasting impact, long after the disaster is over. Write an anthem of encouragement that will make people rejoice when they hear it 50 years from now
Andrae Crouch wears many hats -- singer, musician, composer, and pastor, just to name a few. He presently leads the ministry of the New Christ Memorial Church in Los Angeles, California
 Join us for the FMG/BMG/Heritage Communications Showcase at the Executive Inn in Louisville, Ky., on Sept. 16
Do clothes affect the ministry of gospel singers?
I’m constantly amazed by people that “need” to know all the sordid details of a celebrity’s life
 I discovered that one of the things that kept some of the students from singing well was their insecurity
After the success of “Midnight Cry,” the Lord let Greg remember the prophecy the preacher made over him as a lad of seven
If you are one of those song writers that write in fear and trembling, let me ease your mind
 Why can't this spirit of cooperation, and desire to see the other guy be more successful than me, be prevalent today?
I wonder why a lot of groups continue to make the same mistakes when it comes to releasing a new project
 Strange enough that a thumb comes to life. Even stranger that another comes out to meet him
Those of you who are sincere about doing this business the right way can look into these articles and see the truth staring right back at you
Have you ever noticed that as you get older, time seems to go by at a much faster pace than it did when you were young
Groups and soloists alike will pack up and head to the destination(s) of their choiceand compete in a Talent Contest
This month I feel impressed to talk about what makes a good vocal coach or instructor
Among the ranks of this small army of Christian soldiers are three men I've come to love and appreciate in a very special way
I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that “love at first sight” exists. It hits you when you least expect it
With all the Urban Legends surrounding the mysterious drop in royalties, I decided educate myself
Walter couldn't cope with the deep sorrow of losing his beloved daughter. The pain was just too much for him to bear, so he numbed it with alcohol
Three things cause stage fright, not being musically secure, not being vocally secure, and egotism
New artists are expected to sit back and allow people to say "Its not your turn."
Dottie Rambo excells as a woman who has greatly influenced the world of Christian music
has become a very negative word in Christianity over the last few decades
We realized that was our purpose, to encourage believers to return to their first love
Sometimes you will hear a soft breathy sound when a singer sings
Very little of the music we now present is acceptable in musical terms and therefore people don't like it and don't buy it
We’ve come a long way baby, but I’m not sure it’s where we really want to be
Good structure is vital part of any song. If your songs have poor structure, then you will probably find it very frustrating when trying to pitch your tunes to artists for their consideration
Priscilla McGruder was offered another opportunity to proclaim God as her Healer
From the time I can first remember my father would trick us on April Fools Day
I often think, "How can songwriters top the songs of the past?"
My goal and heart's desire is to honestly educate those up and coming artists in an attempt to salvage this wonderful industry
 You want to be able to control the amount of vibrato in your singing. When singing in a group where the vibrato of each singer is very different it makes the vocals sound messyI want to go into a deeper study of the "open throat" while singing
Gospel Music Veterans form new group…
unless we make some changes RIGHT NOW , we'll soon be talking about Southern Gospel Music in the past tense
when an artist receives an Email or a letter telling about the impact a song has had on someone's life, the difficulties suddenly become joy
Posture is not talked about very much but plays a big part in quality singing
Could the Christian walk more accurately be called a crawl, at least in certain sections along this narrow path we travel?
"Speak the Word Lord," Jonathan Martin, Spring Hill Music Group, and the SOGO Stumper of the Month
As you write songs, search your heart more than the headlines of that morning's newspaper. Let God inspire you to write a song that needs to be heard
I am determined to find gifts that people will use and enjoy this year. I started thinking about presents that I would like to receive and I thought, "Why not give Gospel Music?" This would be the perfect gift.
the problem we have in our many discussions is that we are trying to solve business problems with Ministry answers
get something that will help make a difference in your writing. I am sure there is a book out there that can help you write better
The external part of the nose is very important to the singing voice
there have been some great debates on if it’s right to pre program a concert or worship service ahead of time
Recently, Kevin and I had the opportunity to go to a McGruder concert in Raleigh, NC. Joining them on stage this particular day was Stan Cook
Back in the 70s and 80s there was great discussion about the ?country? influence that was coming into Southern Gospel Music. It seems that the ?purists? of Southern Gospel Music didn?t want the ?country? sound that was clearly making an impact on the genre...
 many of you loyal readers have privately emailed me with a barrage of questions so I chose to focus this month's article as a Q & A.
The truth is, if your songs are good, people will hunt you down to try and record them
Effects processors can be confusing and difficult to operate. I'm going to attempt to help you understand effects processors and what to look for when choosing one
Are Southern Gospel Music fans "Gluttons For Punishment"?
There is no room for control freaks in Songwriting. If you are wanting anyone to record your songs, then you better be willing to give up control of how it will be performed
How do we get contacts to call? The answer to that question is anywhere you can
I snuck into the room one time when she had that particular song on. She was standing on my bed with her arm raised in the air and she was crying
“Words and Music” - Have you ever imagined how dreary the world would be without music? When you wake up in the morning, listen to that beautiful melody playing outside your window. The sparrow, the robin, the meadowlark—they all have their own composition. What a song it is!
It is very difficult to talk about finances, but this is very important to the livelihood of the ministry. While it is a ministry it is also a business
If God's attitude toward creativity were like the attitude of some Southern Gospel producers, He would have said after creating Adam and Eve, “Yeah, that's good enough..."
Keeping your attitude balanced and your ministry healthy takes a lot of effort
 Does it make sense to cut corners in the creation process when it directly affects the quality of the music? Can we do something different?
Many of today's Christians have adopted the philosophy that poverty is Christ like
My gift to you this Christmas season is to give you permission to write whatever you want to. You can even end your lines in a preposition like I did in that last sentence
 If you've ever been through a trial that God walked with you, side by side, and carried you through it, you'll relate to this song
"Run home to mama and listen to your silly music," taunted Butch Miller as a frightened Jimmy Rose dusted off his tattered jeans, the same pair he wore almost everyday
I am often asked, “How can I learn to sing harmony or parts?” Well, I want to give you some information about how to go about it
I suppose it's safe to say, for the most part, deejays are overworked and underpaid
Occasionally my mental excursions make their way to Thanksgiving 1969
As we near Thanksgiving, I would have to say that we at Zion Music Group have so much to give thanks for!
One highlight that puts a smile on my face every time I think about it is that we invited our friends Bunch and Breeze to join us at NQC. These guys are a riot! They were kind enough to parade around the exhibit hall advertising our Showcase!
Recording a project is a very exciting and expensive venture. But it is a very important part of your ministry
Writing for different artist's style has been what has helped me get songs cut by Larnelle Harris and The Inspirations
One thing that bothers me about a lot of new writers is the fact that many of them are not fans of the music they are trying to write
 The Crabb Family has to hold the record for the most people on the road in one bus on a regular basis in Southern Gospel music today!
Let’s face it; image is as important as talent to any Gospel Music Artist
I'd hate to see Major League Baseball stadiums begin to look like hockey rinks
 Have you ever walked into a nice restaurant and had the waiter tell you "I think that today you will have beans and cornbread?"
Buses, food, sleeping and backstage secrets all happen on the road.
 This month we would like to dedicate this entire article to Southern Gospel’s DJs. They truly are the unsung heroes of the music industry
Our lives changed dramatically in the Holland home. Barney has been a member of my husband's family for nearly 12 years and our nucleus for seven. We experienced a collective heartache on multiple and very different levels
We want to talk about ways that you can build your fan base. It is very important to be able to keep in touch with them
 How exciting it would have been to be an eye-witness of the miracles that Jesus did – to watch Him calm the storm, and heal the sick, and raise the dead. How exciting!
If your lyric cannot be summed up in one simple sentence, then you probably need to take out the pruning shears and cut some of the excess words away...
This month I would like to share the answer to some questions I was recently asked by a song writer who is just beginning to get involved in the music industry. I think his questions may be some of the same ones that some of you would like to have answered.
Here are some things to consider when casting your votes in the Songwriting categories
Well, the first and most important step in your recording project is your choice of producer. The producer is like the "family doctor" of your group
When I began pursuing a career in songwriting back in the '80s, I found very few resources to help me. Today there are many resources available that you should take advantage of.
My first seven and a half years of mixing, I mixed on nothing but analog and didn't know any different. Well, for the last year and a half I have been mixing on a digital console. I'm about to give you my take on analog consoles versus digital ones
Last month we established the right to expect compensation for being asked to come and do a concert. So now let’s cover how to go about talking about the expenses
Crossroads Music has been blessed to assemble one of the largest rosters of premier musical talent in the field of Southern Gospel. For well over a decade our company has been on the leading edge in this exciting, ministry minded industry that reaches people in places as faraway and diverse as Nairobi, Africa and Belfast, Northern Ireland
I know that some groups and singers will read these articles on recording and will choose to ignore my advice and keep on recording the way they've been recording in the past. That's their choice
I'm not kidding, folks. It's here. Just type in "space elevator" on Google and you'll find something like this: A space elevator is a revolutionary way of getting from Earth into space
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At the risk of becoming crude, I would like to delve into the arena of public restrooms this month and my observations concerning them. Fortunately, there are plenty of them and they serve us well
 Looking back at our great forefathers of Southern Gospel music and looking at how they did it, we will learn that the only way to truly keep tradition is to break away from it
 I'm not against "wannabees". As a matter of fact, I'm not against anyone. I'm FOR telling the truth as I see it, and if my truth exposes someone else's lies, so be it
You are almost through the storm!" Those words spoke such peace to our hearts as we flew back to Nashville from Destin, FL. We had been in Destin over the Memorial Day weekend enjoying some fun in the sun
I am not against anyone becoming successful, but I am against taking advantage of "wannabees." This is not honest, nor is it right before the God we all sing about
 This month we are going to talk about what you should have in a packet of information when a church or promoter ask for information about your ministry
It was while I was cleaning out the garage that I noticed one of God's slimy little creatures that likes wet, dingy garages - the snail
For some strange reason, everyone has decided that if you don't have a wireless microphone, something is wrong with you. So for all of you who insist on having a wireless microphone, let's look at the differences in them
Are we putting undo pressure on young groups that want to expand and broaden the genre by trying to keep them locked down behind our "Legends", our "Icons", and our "History"?
I have had several beginning writers ask me how to sell a song. As soon as I hear this question, I realize that this person does not understand copyright law or the music business
Let’s take a quick look at In Ear Monitors or IEM’s. I’ll briefly touch on the different types
Last month we talked about producing quality tones and we wanted to continue sharing some more information. It is very important that you can consistently sing on pitch, so let's look at some of the problems and how to solve them
If baseball were run like Southern Gospel Music, we would have 12 year olds playing in the majors
 How much bearing does the quality of the audio at southern gospel concerts have on people's decision on how "good" the group is? It's something that should be overlooked by the average concert goerThere are some things that should NEVER change in Southern Gospel Music
I know that some of us would just like to get bookings at any cost but there are some things we need to keep in mind when booking
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Have you ever had a conversation with someone so desperate that they confess to you, "I don't know what I'm gonna do"
Is there a place for good wholesome Christian entertainment or should we be totally ministry driven?
 We had to start off our trip properly by stopping to eat!
I want to dive in a little deeper and look at the pros and cons of powered speakers vs. non powered speakers
I've run across something lately that has me really disturbed. It's the misuse of a common phrase that we all know
 Your approach to the stage says a lot about you or your group and we want to make sure that we are starting our program off with a good first impression...Awesome film-making aside, it means so much because Jesus means so much. I left loving Jesus more than I ever had before
I don’t know if they intended this book to be "prophetic", but in many ways it could be. Actually the authors said that if certain things didn’t happen that we would find Southern Gospel Music in the exact shape that we find it today.
Maybe your strength is in music, but you have a hard time with lyrics. A co-writer could help you bring your songs to a brand new level. Or maybe you get great ideas for lyrics, but all your melodies sound like other songs that are already on the radio. You could benefit greatly by letting a musician with better skills than yours, work on your song with you
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I was a little late catching on to this one, but I finally tuned in to "American Idol" back when Ruben and Clay were duking it out
When is the last time that this nation has seen the power of God actually moving in our churches?
We may be in the throws of winter, but the new releases from Spring Hill Music Group are HOT, HOT, HOT
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I know this may seem very trivial, trying to figure out when to buy new or upgrade your audio gear
All I have to do is find something that needs to be said or repeated, and say it in a way that will catch the attention of a listener.
It is time to begin to live the message of our songs. No more tearing down or ridicule
Some people get the erroneous idea that once one becomes a Christian, that it's all smooth sailing from there on in. Well, unfortunately, that's just not true. I wish it was!! But we still have to face obstacles and tests and trials. They challenge our faith, and try our patience, but we know that with God on our side, and the Lord and His Spirit at our side, we can make it
With an accuracy of 10%, let's see what the Predictions are for the new year
We are going to start off the new year talking about management of a ministry
In this industry, to me, the quality of the digital piano is extremely critical
 New Year's Resolutions. I think they are quite ridiculous
My family, on my husband's side, experienced an unexpected loss in the days prior to Thanksgiving. A young man of 37 years, a beloved son and brother, a cherished uncle and friend passed on to Heaven
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It was the spirit in the song. It was the message, not the messenger that kept calling back
Have you ever thought what makes a cake a cake and a pie a pie? Me either. Not until I was confronted with a dilemma that my wife ran into this Christmas
If we REALLY are the church then we should lament when our brother or sister is suffering pain.
There are some writers that write only when they feel inspired to do so. That sounds very spiritual, but I think it portrays a lazy work ethic. If God has given you a talent to write songs, then write songs
As audio engineers in the Southern Gospel industry or any Christian music industry for that matter, we have a common goal and an eternal responsibility. Though the focus for our listeners is often on the vocalists and instrumentalists on stage, the way we mix or prepare for the evening can determine if that's where it stops
Every Christmas, we struggle to find that perfect gift for that special someone. Well, look no further. I, being the local Christian retail expert (logging in just over 5 years at LifeWay Christian Store), can help you find that idyllic gift for this holiday season. Let's take a look at what's hot, and what's not for this Christmas season
Don't let the business of the world at CHRISTMAS or any other time allow that task to be INCOVENIENT. Because you know Christ, you be the bearer of Glad Tidings of hope and eternity
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Becoming a legendary group doesn't happen overnight. It doesn't happen by accident. It doesn't happen without stability, conviction, consistency and dedication
I want to spend some time talking about song interpretation. You don't hear much about interpretation in Southern Gospel music but it is what sells the song to your audience and makes a song come alive
...it all started with one tiny baby…one born in a manger…spotlighted for all the world to see by a bright and shining star
Don't think for a minute that I take that lightly. But don't think for a minute that I take my time off seriously. Thus, observations like the following arise. Here is my top ten list of jobs I don't think that I would enjoy
This school setting made me so happy that I had and my children have these opportunities for education and freedom . But I also felt tears burn my eyes as I got to the line, "One nation, under God..."
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When we are on stage things can go wrong and sometimes we become embarrassed and just want the floor to open so we can disappear. But we are going to talk about how to handle those times
After the service was over, the Pastor called me aside and reprimanded me for saying, "I wrote a song" He told me that I should NEVER say that. But instead I should always say "God gave me a song". I disagreed with him completely
I think that we've made ourselves so pressed for time that we forget to tell the person who helped us find that perfect gift, "thank you". We forget to say "thank you" to the person who held the door open for us while we struggled with groceries
There has been a trend in recent years to incorporate lyrics and melodies from older songs into new songs. This can be very effective
After recent comments on the article, I’ve decided to respond to a couple of those and to discuss subwoofers
Working with Kevin McManus is truly an honor! I am thankful for his God-given talent and for his humble spirit
Imagine for a split second getting a "sneak peek" into Heaven… And for that split second, you can see through the eyes of a loved one standing on the threshold of Glory before crossing into the arms of the Savior. Imagine...
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Now, I have no problem with groups singing in churches, as I believe that the church needs to be edified as much as anyone else. However, what bothers me the most is that groups will stand up proudly and proclaim that they are reaching the lost, yet singing to other believers the whole time
It's one of the first things you look at when you step into a venue. It's also a large part of feedback problems in the front of house speakers. It's amazing what a difference proper speaker placement can make in the sound of your system
The producer may be the most misunderstood position in the entire Gospel Project family. In fact, many artists fail to see the need for a producer at all. That's a bit like failing to see the need for an experienced guide on a jungle expedition.
Have you ever seen someone in concert and you were not listening to what they were singing because you were to busy watching something they were doing with their hands, feet, mic cord, or even their facial expression?
The mainstream industry is often looked upon as satan-worshipping, idolization, half naked individuals dancing across the screen, etc. However, what I see is ample opportunity to take what the world has and put it to use in the Gospel music industry.
Rumor has it from someone at Daywind that I'm now 40 years old. I know, I know, I hold my age well!
We want to talk about stage presence again this month and we want to start with things not to do on stage. The first thing we want to bring to your attention is drinking while on stage. Next, we want to try to avoid turning our backs on the audience. Place your equipment so that you do not have to turn your back to adjust it.
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How do you get your bass singer to sound that way? Of course then the questions like, what kind of microphone do you use or recommend is quick to follow. Well, I'm going to briefly talk about microphones for bass singers.
A session musician (player) is one who spends a large portion of his working time, if not all of it, playing in the studio. MYTH - Session players are super-human creatures from the planet Groovus and can play for 15 hours at a time without rest.
People have written letters to editors and even discussed it on a recent message board on this very website. Yes, I'm talking about southern gospel concert audio levels. Too loud? Not loud enough?
This month we are going to talk about a common problem that you hear in singing. Singing with a nasal sound, I know that you have heard some singers sing with a nasal sound as though they were singing from the front of their nose. The tone that is based in the nose is one that may sound biting and shrill or it can cause a stuffy or muffled sound
Last month we discussed our stage presence and we want to continue with that same topic but we want to cover microphone techniques. It is amazing how many people do not know how to use a microphone properly. So we hope we can share some information that will help
 We want to continue with more about stage performance. There are many things that we go will over in these articles but I think that one of the most important is eye contact with your audience{image-sm}
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Recording a Gospel Music Project, whether Southern Gospel, Country Gospel or Bluegrass Gospel, in the 21st Century is a complex process involving a number of people, several places and a series of necessary events
Many long nights go into singing this wonderful music we call Southern Gospel. Many working men and women give of their spare time, time they could be spending with their families and friends. Thank you to all of you, full or part time
Parents understand that pride in their children runs deep. Speaking as one, we encourage and praise them for every attempt, no matter what the outcome..
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David has recently written a booklet called "Recording A Gospel Music Project." After reading it myself, I believe it should be required reading for any artist planning to record a project
 When nature renews itself I feel that it is a great time for us to do the same with our Christian lives. It is also a great time to take a look at our stage presence and performance. So, with that said let's get to workI like to look at life and laugh. Ok, so I like to look at people and laugh. I know this sounds mean, but truly that is not my intention. In my job, I see so many different kinds of people
 I'm going to continue on and try to put together a budget minded system for "the average" quartet. This will include just the bare necessities and ideas that I think will get the job done for the least amount of moneyEvery genre of music has what I like to call their “best kept secrets”.
These are artists who have just as much talent and potential as the big dogs, if not more, yet they are some of the most underappreciated in their industry You may ask how in the world taking time out to recognize Father's could in any way make one laugh. Ahhh, my only answer would be that you do not know my father.
Very few groups can be counted on to draw enough people to pay their flats, let alone pay for any of the other expenses involved in promoting a concert
As I examine the gifts that each of my parents have instilled in me, I have
to say that overall I am my father's child
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 If I had to pick two parts of a sound system, that I had to deem as the "most important," I would say that it involves where the sound begins and where it endsWe all face mountains we have to climb. Everybody does. Becoming a Christian doesn't make you exempt
The package must be put together in a professional manner. I cannot tell you how many song demos I've listen to in my lifetime. And more often than not, I can tell if I'm going to like a song just by the way it is presented
I am not asking anyone to be "pro" war. I am encouraging all to be "pro" United States. Support our country and our President even if you are against his decision. Let us present ourselves as a "United" country
I think the important thing about Mother's Day is looking on your life and viewing the impact this special lady has made. She's a cook, a housekeeper, a mechanic, a seamstress, an inventor, a doctor, a teacher, and the list could go on and on
Since we can?t really see what?s happening when we are listening to our CDs, we are left to our imagination, which may be good or may not be so good. I remember the first time I saw a video of a SG group singing on stage. I thought that it was so neat
There is no need to get upset, worry, or complain about this "younger" generation. All is not lost?history is just repeating itself.
Every songwriter has to climb their own ladder to success. The problem is, most of us try to start at the top. That's a mistake I made.
As Christians we have a responsibility in many areas that non-Christian performers do not have and we want to start with spiritual preparationIn the beginning of southern gospel music there was at the most two microphones and a piano. So what happened? The fans came along and filled up bigger places and technology advanced for better sound. However, when running sound, remember it all starts with your purchasing of the equipment.
So you want to write a song! Or maybe you've just completed one. Great! You are now one of fourteen million songwriters in America alone. That's right, FOURTEEN MILLION Americans claim to be songwriters. But out of those fourteen million, only FOURTEEN HUNDRED have ever made even one penny from a song they have written
Recently my pastor gave a sermon about being the "best YOU you can be", which I was really looking forward to hearing. I love a challenge and I am constantly looking for ways to make a difference in every aspect of my life. One of the points of his delivery addressed attitude
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To modify your vowels and consonants it takes some work but the results are well worth the effort. This one act will change your singing for the better in more ways than one. It will give your singing that professional sound like nothing else can.Southern Gospel Radio is in my opinion playing the very best music in the world. It is the very best for several reasons. First is the message. Of all the important things in life to say or sing about, the Gospel is certainly the most important one I can think of. For the most part, Southern Gospel Radio is playing very solid songs with the Gospel message that is inspiring and uplifting to their audience
In the last two articles we have talked about most of the vowels but there are four more we want to add to those. The first one is the "Short O" sound.As I sat here pondering what I could possibly write that would be new for the New Year, I couldn?t help but think about all the conversations on the various message boards and E-mail lists concerning the future of Southern Gospel Music. It seems that there are two camps of discussion
Improperly set EQ settings, wrong microphone selection and poor gain structure are some of the real causes of people complaining and walking out. They will tell you it was too loud which may have not been the case at all, but was an effect of one of the above mentioned problems
CrossWay, The Oak Ridge Boys, Karen Peck and New River, The Ruppes, The Hoppers, Janet Paschal, Jeff and Sheri Easter, and The Martins Updates
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This month we want to start talking about vowel modifications. This is very important and we will probably take two or three months to cover this information completely. Be sure to read the next few months.How thankful we should be that we have a merciful Heavenly Father Who blesses us each and every day, in so many ways, with bountiful blessings. I know we all have problems, but in the midst of them all, we can still raise our hands and cry, "Still Blessed!" We're blessed with knowing the One Who can lift us up out of all of those problems, or Who will walk with us through every valley
The events of September 11, 2001 were merely an amplification of events that happen in daily lives of people all over this country. So, the question that haunted me is this. Do our children know how to pray for their children? In other words, ?Did we teach our kids to pray?? I don?t mean to pray over their meals or before they go to bed, I mean did we teach them how to reach the portals of heaven with their petitions. Did we teach them how to get hold of God and not let go?
I normally do not “push” my services in this monthly article. I tend to discuss matters relating to Music, Ministry, etc.
February is the month that emphasizes love. We love all year round but this month sticks out because of Valentine’s day which is on the horizon.
The Life Essentials Study Bible is the first of its kind but I believe that because of its Biblical principles, strong foundation, and the technology to access sound Biblical teachings, this idea will be widely adapted in the years to come.
In previous articles, I referred to The Beatitudes of Christ as “The Spiritual and Psycho-Social Profile of God’s Ultimate Overcomers.”
I was perfectly content with my life -- that is, until the pages of my story were ripped out before I had a chance to live happily ever after.
I read today that Adele will be making her comeback performance at this year's Grammy Awards after requiring throat surgery last year.
This month we are hearing about a song written several years ago & later recorded by The Hoppers. The message in this song continues to inspire & find a new meaning for different folks as some of the testimonies in this article will reveal.
One of the most exciting things that I get to do as I write for http://absolutelygospel.com is the opportunity to take readers behind the scenes of different projects. Today, I’m going to take you behind the scenes of a movie that was released this fall that stars Robert Duvall and Lucas Black called 7 Days in Utopia.
When her beloved grandfather Isaac dies, Dinah must follow his final command: travel to Job's household to marry his son. After Job's world comes crashing down, Dinah finds herself drawn to this great man brought low. What will she risk to fight for his survival?
Well known pastor and author Max Lucado had a vision along with co-pastor Randy Frazee to bring the Bible to life. Both men had written books along the lines of the same theme. Randy wrote, The Heart Of The Story and Max wrote, Gods Story, Your Story.
In previous articles, I referred to The Beatitudes of Christ as “The Spiritual and Psycho-Social Profile of God’s Ultimate Overcomers.” As we focus our attention on these Beatitudes given in Matthew 5:1-12, we will gain an enormous appreciation for the comfort and hope they can instill. They not only cite the problems and perplexities that are common to most of us, but they offer a hope and promise that we will eventually get through what we are presently going through.
In previous articles, I referred to The Beatitudes of Christ as “The Spiritual and Psycho-Social Profile of God’s Ultimate Overcomers.”
Art, be it in words, photos, song, is meant to be lovely and special. And those creating art practice their crafts with a mind for their audience. When I put photos online, I am certain that they are flattering. It doesn't make me a fraud.
Ruth takes a look at one of her favorite novels - Robin McKinley's Beauty.
An Interview with new bible study Stuck's Jennie Allen
Our third installment is, “Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth (v.5).” I have paraphrased it, “Blessed Are The Relaxed For The World Will Come To You.” Here Christ is showing us there is more than one way to approach life.
Filled with nail-biting suspense and heart-melting romance, Deadly Pursuit is Irene Hannon's storytelling at its very best.
I have started writing a lot of variations on a new theme. I call it, "the inevitability of change."
In a recent seminar, I referred to The Beatitudes of Christ as “The Spiritual and Psycho-Social Profile of God’s Ultimate Overcomers.” That is quite a challenge to live up to but, a cursory study of these eight insights given in Matthew 5:1-12, will certainly reveal that they easily pass the test.
I readily admit that I love using Facebook. It is a fun tool for me to explore my use of words and to gauge the responses they bring from people.
3 Quick Questions of the new inspirational film Courageous' director Michael Catt
In a recent seminar, I referred to The Beatitudes of Christ as “The Spiritual and Psycho-Social Profile of God’s Ultimate Overcomers.” That is quite a challenge to live up to but, a cursory study of these eight insights given in Matthew 5:1-12, will certainly reveal that they easily pass the test.
When it comes to love, sometimes you have to be a little foolish.
Reality television has been a staple in the entertainment industry for over a decade. The “switch” from primarily sitcoms and movies caused several changes in the industry world. With that being said, two women who worked in the entertainment industry separately came together for a common purpose several years ago to bring faith based films to the forefront of entertainment.
I love words. I gobble them up as though they are daily bread, and I use them like seasoning. I believe they are their own art form, and for me, especially when they are written and can be doled out carefully, packed with meaning, full of wonder, and blessedly able to be enjoyed over and over again.
In ancient times it was not enough to just ACKNOWLEDGE a curse; someone had to BREAK the curse.
Higley’s first “lost cities” novel is a fast-paced tale, liberally laced with adventure and spiritual truths
A message and challenge given by Sue Duffield on Wednesday morning at the Branson Gospel Music Revival, Tri-Lakes Center, June 29, 2011
Truth! That is what we all strive to find whether in secular culture or in religious circles. Debates tend to never cease on the real meaning of truth. I believe that Jesus summed it up best in John 14 when he declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life, no one comes to the father but by me.
Positive attitudes will help you cope more easily with the daily aspects of your life. They bring optimism into your life, and make it easier to avoid worry and negative thinking.
Rosalie’s childhood dream was falling in love and having the kind of marriage and family her father, a reporter whose work consumed his life, could never seem to give his own family. When war comes and Rosalie’s brother dies at Pearl Harbor, she decides that her best friend, Vic, would make a good husband. But she puts off marrying him until his return, hoping to convince herself that she loves him enough.
Jamie takes a look at the new book by Francis Chan - Ronnie Wilson's Book
Max Lucado is no doubt, one of the most gifted Christian communicators of our current day. God has blessed his efforts in many ways and we see the fruit of his labor through books that encourage Christians and make non-Christians wonder what the Christian life is all about.
Ruth's first book review focuses on Laura Frantz's Courting Morrow Little: A Novel!
One of the greatest assets endowed by your Creator is the power of imagination. Your mind can create images or pictures. You may hear this concept referred to as your “mind’s eye.”
 This new article will take a look at things don't fit in other categories - such as recipes, concert reviews, software reviews, and much more!
When you’re young, the hardships you face are relatively small. You fell while riding your bike, your brother won’t share his candy, the person you like doesn’t like you in return or someone was mean to you at school.
In keeping with the analogy of air-travel, I want to talk about the most important aspect of the journey
As any pilot will tell you, the angle of the nose of your plane to the ground determines whether your airplane is climbing or descending. This angle of the nose is referred to as the attitude of the plane.
Having just spent time with family, I was able to observe my nephew with his girlfriend and what a sweet revelation that was! (He would probably be terribly embarrassed if he knew I was writing about him, so let’s keep this between us, OK?)
I am a “race horse” who lives in a world full of turtles. I love to gallop, except for when I can run at full speed. Deadlines and schedules are motivators for me. I don’t like “late-nicks.”
I later thought about the technology behind sending an instantaneous message from the Nashville area to a small plastic device on a highway in Kentucky. Small wonders of a modern world that today we take for granted.
It is often the simple experiences that become life lessons and that is exactly what happened to us while on a recent trip to the grocery store.
Getting from the Island of fear, sorrow, melancholia, unhappiness, and depression back onto the Mainland of joy and contentment requires you to cross the chasm that separates the two.
I used to love watching the old-timer’s games from Yankee Stadium. When they introduced men like Whitey Ford, Yogi Berra, Phil Rizutto, or the other participants in this annual affair, I would remember how great they were in their prime.
There is an old Chinese proverb that says, ““Sow a thought, reap an action; sow an action, reap a habit; sow a habit, reap a character; sow a character, reap a destiny.”
There’s a song written by Sara Groves that really speaks to my heart. It’s entitled “Just One More Thing.” As you listen, the lyrics remind us that life is hectic and we all have important things pulling at us on a daily basis
In a traditional wedding ceremony, the minister will ask the question “Do you promise to love, honor and cherish?” and I’ve come to the conclusion that we tend to focus more on the love part than the promise to honor and cherish
This month I would like to write about some friends who were instrumental in my getting the opportunity to sing with “The Stamps Quartet”. They are “The Singing Rambos”.
Today, rather than wonder if “THE ONE” has entered the horizon of your life, or worrying that you might never find Mr./Mrs. Right, I want to encourage all our single friends to look at your singleness in a different light.
It has been suggested that we should also use this time to examine the corridors of our mind and emotions. Sensory sediment can linger in the cracks and crevices of our minds and cause significant levels of discomfort or distress
Do you get overwhelmed with some huge looming task that you KNOW you need to do? If you are like me, it's easy to get bogged down with something that just seems too big to get done.
First, we had the eraser. Then following in succession came correction tape, “Wite Out,” “Liquid Paper” and finally the indispensable “delete” key on the computer. All these have one thing in common: they allow you to fix your mistakes
I recently heard a woman say she gives her boyfriend praise because she feels obligated to do so. She said the only way to keep him happy is to compliment him. She also said she didn’t understand why he’s so needy
As we assess our progress toward wholeness, or wellness, we often find our emotional dipstick measuring less than full. Wholeness is our goal, and that balance between the spiritual, the emotional, and the physical
This month I would like to write a little about what the theme of our songs should be , according to the word of God. What kinds of things are said about singing in the book of songs , “Psalms”.
But for a few exceptions, the couples who predominately got their answers correct were the ones who’ve been married for the shortest amount of time. I found that to be very interesting.
Personalized lyrics can be very powerful to the person it is written about. These kind of songs don't usually have much of a life beyond the first performance. But that one performance can become a memory that someone will carry the rest of their life
As you have probably noticed, they are at it again. What exactly am I referring to, you ask? It is the systematic secularization of Christmas by the pagan propagandists of America. That may seem rather strong language to use but, believe me, I could get even stronger
Today, I’m forced to realize that life is unpredictable. You can be celebrating the holidays with family one day and the next, the unexpected could happen.
Do not even think you are going to get in the front door for an interview without an attractive, high-tech résumé for the “head-hunters” to dissect while you attempt to dazzle them with your sparkling display of charm under pressure. To the best résumé writer goes the spoils! Or, so it seems
 I've read many stories about the Cathedral Quartet, all of which are glowing. All of the things I had read were from outsiders, talking about things they seen and heard, but there is something special about reading the story from someone who lived it.
While technology and science have immensely improved our ability to see into the physical and material realms, there remains only one device capable of peering into the dimension of the spirit of man. That tool is the Word of God!
Since the word “blessing” is a somewhat nebulous term, each reader tends to define it from his or her own perspective. The common assumption is that blessings are a God-thing that are ethereal and indistinguishable.
He loves you so much that He is willing to forgive you and restore your right standing. THAT IS THEREFORE A SPECIAL TIME TO SING ALOUD ABOUT HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS
This month we will talk about preparing for your vocal sessions. We will discuss both the preparation for your vocal sessions and the sessions themselves
Phillip Emery of DJ Man Promotions is promoting Zion Music Group to Southern Gospel Radio! We are confident that you will enjoy talking to him and his capable staff regarding your radio needs
Friendships are something that I treasure very much! I am quick to let my friends and family know how meaningful they are in my life! We were reminded this month of how fleeting life is when we learned about John Campbell’s death
When I was a just a boy, 12 years of age, I fell in love.(Another 4 letter word).You might think that is a very young age for a boy to fall in love.But, I was smitten.It wasn’t by the little girl next door, but it was by the old guitar that my Dad had played when he and mom sang in our little church
I spend a great deal of time recording other gospel groups and artists, and I am always amazed how unprepared many groups are when they show up for a recording session. Whether it be for the tracking date, or later on vocal sessions
Have you ever wondered why people will pay four dollars for a cup of coffee or why kids just have to have the new shoes that cost $130? I have. Especially when it comes to the coffee, a conversation we have at my house quite often
How often do you personally stop and think, “God loves me…He is rejoicing over me right now”? Our lives are filled with God’s love and mercy! One of my favorite songs is “I am a Friend of God” by Israel Houghton. I love that song because it reminds me of something
Submitting to God's plan in business, personal life, family decisions, politics is where we find peace and fulfillment. When you find your place in ministry, be confident in God's work through you
Why does God give some of His most precious gifts to the most cracked of His pots? Then, I happened to watch the Gaither Vocal Band reunion videos, where I heard Mark Lowry, as he has a tendency to do, nail the answer in one sentence. "Because cracked pots spill more water."
How do I get my songs published? What should I expect from a publisher? And, how much will it cost? These are common questions raised by new writers. And quite frankly, there is no one answer that is correct for every writer.
It’s February and love is in the air! I’ve received a dozen offers for discounts on roses and every time one arrives in the mail, I wonder why it’s being sent to me rather than to Jim. I know he has NO desire to receive roses as a gift!
I want to have an obedient heart…but not to just obey but as the scripture said….to do so with my whole heart. That enthusiasm must get God’s attention! Serving God is easy when your priorities are right and your heart is thankful!
After those things that sing in nature, I listed some beings that sing before God, and for God, to bless Him and all who hear them. I want to talk a little bit about two scriptures where beings sing for God, and what these scriptures mean to you and I
During this very festive time of the year, we are thankful for our Zion Artists who are some of the most incredible Christians on the planet! We appreciate the opportunity to represent them and are thankful for the lives impacted by their ministries!
Now, you know it really isn’t all about the food, however, making traditions with your family is what it’s all about. I don’t know what I would do if, one Christmas, my mom just decided she wasn’t making her fantastic banana pudding or home-made chocolate pie!
1. Is the health of gospel music deteriorating or is it stronger than ever?
2. Does a new independent artist have a better chance at succeeding today than 20 years ago? ... In October, we were thrilled to attend a concert where Carroll McGruder and Priscilla McGruder received Lifetime Achievement Awards individually at the UPCI General Conference in Greensboro, NC
Our opportunities to obey God’s call on our lives is fleeting. “You do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away
Fall can bring allergies and breathing difficulties for many people, some of which are singers. Sometimes it seems very difficult to sing through the allergies in the fall and the springtime
I received an email a while back that quoted children’s ideas about relationships and thought I might share a few of those with you this month. You’ll have a chuckle as you read the humorous answers to the questions asked
In case you have not noticed, we have gradually moved into the “Hybrid Age.” We have witnessed this phenomenon where two animals or plants from two different species are mixed in order to produce an offspring of a hybrid
How many times do we say things and behave in ways that are selfish and short-sighted? The Lord has a plan for your life. He knows your strengths and your weaknesses and has planned your perfect path.
There are a lot of times that people in the audience, even though they are untrained as singers, can tell that a singer sounds “off” in his or her singing. Not singing on key, or on pitch, is usually the reason singers sound “off” even to untrained listeners.
The family was always doing whatever they could to stretch a dollar and that meant that there wasn’t much money to spend on gifts or things that might be called frivolous. In the midst of this money crunch, Jim’s dad still wanted to do nice things for his wif
Thank you so much for your continued prayer for Priscilla McGruder! She is continuing her chemotherapy treatments! She appreciates all of your prayers and concern! We are trusting God for another miracle!
I would like to address the issue of how to sing high tones in the most effective manner to keep your voice working well even when you get to your late 60's and beyond. Tenors and Sopranos can really use this information, also others can use it to sing in the high part of their registers
One of the Gaithers’ most meaningful and widely used songs was written in 1970. It was born out of hardship and trial, as are many of the most lasting of our beloved hymns and gospel songs.
Do you remember when you were a kid and you hung a sign on your bedroom door that said “No Boys (or girls) Allowed”? Well today, we’re putting a sign on the “doors” of our marriages that says “No Egos Allowed”
Do not despair! God truly does know exactly where you are at! There is such comfort in that! You can trust Him to carry you when you are at your weakest! You can trust Him to strengthen you when in crisis!
I had a beautiful example for being faithful to God and living a Godly life in my dad. Having been raised in a pastor's home, I saw the benefits of my dad's faithfulness to God
It seems like a time of new and beautiful beginnings. With this in mind I believe that it is a good time for each of us who minister in music to others to take a fresh look at our mission and abilities to carry out that mission
Snakes! Just the word can strike fear in the heart of even the bravest. Nearly everyone has heard a snake story at some time. Snake stories always seem to have a bad ending
There have been more than one case when a song was deemed worthy of very little consideration, by the author, and yet the Lord in His infinite wisdom overruled human rationale and exalted songs of His own choosing. Such was the subject of this story
Seems like this year is really flying by, but I am happy to report that most promoters seem to be having a good year. I am getting more and more positive reports even though the economy is low, concert attendance is up, which means financial losses are down
The older I am, the more I realize my profound reliance on God and His mercy! It is amazing how the younger version of Beverly often felt self reliant and maybe even aspired to be more self sufficient
How many of you have a time set aside each week to spend with your spouse? A time that is just for the two of you. I know of one couple who have been married for over 25 years and have never failed to have their “date night
Overall, I believe the SGPA has had a remarkable year which included giving back to our members free motel accommodations and dinner in May, and the cruise and breakfast at Convention
 I have a lot of friends that have been a tremendous help to me in my short time as a promoter. I firmly believe that we will all be much better promoters if we cooperate with each other. Concerts feed off of each other
The New Year brings hope, renewed strength, new goals and the drive to achieve those goals! We hope your new year is blessed! Certainly, if God is the center of your life, your goals and your career, you will reap the rewards of putting Him first
When circumstances beyond our control take our life by storm, we are instructed to look up for our redemption is very near! God knows exactly where you are today and will be your strength and your comfort if you will allow Him to be that in your life!
Like so many young, aspiring songwriters before her, Marcia Henry found inspiration for her composing in the music of Southern Gospel songwriters Dottie Rambo, Ronnie Hinson, Rusty Goodman, Joel Hemphill, and Bill and Gloria Gaither
New figures showed that promoters are now losing less money on their concerts. It looks like, after several years of severe losses in which many promoters were forced to totally stop promoting, we are turning the corner.
As one of my favorite comedian's of all time, Jerry Clower, would say, "I backed into the Christian Radio Business." I actually have my degree in Marketing from Austin Peay State University and that was part of my job at F&M Bank in Clarksville before I got into radio
One of the things I enjoy most about the convention is hearing new songs debuted on stage. Some of the great moments I remember from the past were hearing the Hoppers sing HERE I AM for the first time. What a song! I went home and spent the next year trying to write one just like it
Bill and Gloria Gaither have written approximately 700 songs that have been translated into most of the languages on the face of the earth. Wherever they have traveled their songs have preceded them. Gloria told me of an experience in South Africa
The more we prepare ourselves to do the very best possible, that we can, for Him the better we will be able to do just that. An athlete exercises in every way he knows how to improve his abilities to bring honor to the team that he is a part of, to make it a winning team
We send our heartfelt congratulations to the entire Dunaway family! Emmy Kate Lovern was born August 2, 2007! She weighed 7 lb 7 oz and the entire Zion Family celebrates her arrival! Kana and Josh Lovern are the ecstatic parents
I happen to be one who believes that what I do for the Lord should be better than what I do anywhere else, and I should prepare myself to make the utmost of the talent that the Lord has endowed me with, in order that I can minister for Him
Now that we are all sharing ideas and information, we are seeing more and more winners after many years of many in our industry suffering and many artists and promoters biting the dust. I am now seeing a spirit of togetherness that I have not seen before
When you see what God sees and say what God says in the Bible, you will slam the door on doubt, fear and unbelief. Your confessions will close the entrances that Satan uses to debilitate, discourage and defeat the child of God
Kevin McManus has been busy producing Mike Purkey’s latest recording! They selected incredible material and it will be a first class recording, including orchestrations by Steve Mauldin! We look forward to the release of this awesome recording
We all enjoy the stories of those who seem to “Hit the jackpot,” those who “Get the brass ring,” win the lottery or apparently have the “Luck of the Irish.” Perhaps these accounts reaffirm our hopes, dreams and ambitions that someday “Our ship will come in”
In May I had the opportunity to be reminded of the roots that brought many of us to where we are today in our love of Gospel Music. I saw three of the Legends who walked the steps to make the way for the people in SGM today
What is CORRECT POSTURE for singing WHEN YOU ARE SEATED? I know that this will not affect a lot of you during performances. However, it could when you are rehearsing for a choir number, depending on your director’s methods during rehearsal
Being born in Wilmington, Delaware doesn’t seem a likely start for an up and coming SGM artist but Bryan’s family only lived there a short time. Then they moved to the mountains of North Carolina, not that far from where the Dixie Melody Boys are based
Many in this field of ministry will have a rollercoaster-type perspective of their calling into the Christian music industry. Is it a business (which it must always have a certain level of business emphasis to be sustaining), or a Ministry?
Promoters provide the greatest music and the best family entertainment available anywhere, but charge less. As you can see promoters are not trying to get rich. More often than not, they would be happy to just break even
There is a critical need in Gospel Music, however, for all singers to give due diligence to the ACTUAL WORDS being sung. The lyrics must be scriptural. "soulish” types of songs may move your audience but they will not move God!
From the age of twelve Dianne Wilkinson has had an unbelievable rise in influence in the world of Southern Gospel Music. That genre of music has held her rapt attention since those early years. Through her life span as a wife, a church pianist, a faithful church member
For the SGPA, I think it has been one of our better years in that our membership has grown, our revenue has been good due to the projects we have shared, and all of the Officers are doing a great job
Since my earliest memories of Church we have been told that before Jesus can return, there must be a great, worldwide backsliding that takes place. It seems that multitudes of Christians will have to deny their faith in Christ
You need to find your purpose? If you don’t know your purpose, then what reference point do you have to determine success? How will you know when you are making progress? Everyone needs a “target”
As I grow older I often become somewhat nostalgic. This time of year that is especially so. It’s not just the Thanksgiving and Christmas season and all the wonderful memories they bring
Stephen Adams, a native of Woonsocket, Rhode Island, was born into a Nazarene pastor’s home in 1943, and has possibly made the most extreme transition into Southern Gospel music of any songwriter I have ever interviewed
“It’s beginning to look a lot like…” Yes it is that time of the year again. Retailers have been “facing” their shelves with merchandise for the season since the day after Labor Day (or so it seems).
This time of year we hear a lot about being thankful, Thanksgiving, that national holiday where we eat too much and enjoy football. But do we really know how to be thankful?
Music played a major role in Charles Tindley’s life. It is said that during his preaching he would often break into singing, allowing the congregation to join him on the chorus of the song
When we come face-to-face with the loss of a “real” friend, it makes us take note of the truly overwhelming void that it leaves in our hearts. Such is the feeling at Zion Music upon the receipt of the news of the Homegoing of our beloved friend, Paul Boden
I dare say that there is not a Southern Gospel Music fan on the face of the earth who has not heard a song written by Bill and Gloria Gaither. More and more millions of Americans and people of other countries are now coming to love Southern Gospel, and most of them can name more than one Gaither song
We are also happy to announce a new addition to the Zion Music staff. Eric McGruder, son of Carroll and Priscilla McGruder, has recently joined our staff as Office Manager. Eric has been involved with his parent’s ministry for many years
We sadly extend our deepest sympathies to the families of Mr. and Mrs. Billy Walker. Their deaths were a shock to our community and a tragedy that was reported world wide. They were dear friends and true Christians
Jesus reached out to everyone and many rejected Him. He said we are to be followers of Him. That means we don't reach out to only those that are lovable or who do what we want them to do.
God took a young woman whose life, hope and future was shattered many years ago by loss and found a way to use that pain to bring healing to others. I didn’t see a future but God had a plan!
he Dunaways are putting the finishing touches on their brand new Zion project . We are very excited about the material, production and message presented on this recording
Safe Harbor was founded 13 years ago and Johnny Beachum, lead singer is a founding member. We asked Johnny about some of the changes in the group since winning the Horizon Award.
Kevin and I had the opportunity to attend the McGruder’s anniversary services in Kennett, MO. It was a beautiful weekend of services celebrating their 25th anniversary as pastor of the church in Kennett that also celebrated their new position as Bishop over the church
We asked some of our artists to share their thoughts regarding Valentines Day with you!
It feels great to start a new year with new dreams and goals to accomplish in the next 365 days. About 4 years ago, my husband gave me a Palm Pilot for Christmas. Honestly, my first thoughts were, “I will never use that!”
It seems we all complain and gripe about things more than we are grateful for the good things. Some days I find myself mulling over a negative story or comment instead of reading the pages of positive ink
When you are at a concert look around and see the majority of attendees are senior citizens. Granted, there are some young folks but are we doing everything we can to encourage the next generation?
One thing I have noticed is some people in church complaining about Christmas. They say “Christmas isn’t what it used to be.” Or “There is no Christmas Spirit anymore.”
My friends, there is hope for the Southern Gospel Music Industry. I sense a new feeling of optimism within the ranks, especially among some of our younger and newer leaders.
NQC has come and gone, and with it has come afresh the realization that we are so blessed. After spending four days and three nights there, I came home physically exhausted but spiritually renewed
As promised, I am sharing pictures of the NQC highlights for Zion Music Group with you this month
It's almost time for Southern Gospel Music's premier event! The National Quartet Convention
He taught himself to play the piano as a very young child. He would listen to recordings of his favorite singers
The weather isn't the only thing heating up. Studio activity for Family Music and Butler Music artists has been heating up as well
One day, we were throwing around ideas to help promote SGl music as a whole. You might enjoy our list
In a time when many spend their days thinking up ways to discourage their fellow man, it is refreshing to see those who are encouraged
Congrats to Christlike for sharing the Breakthrough Artist of the Year honors with Mercy's Mark
God did not call me to a career as a singer. He used my love of music as an entrance into this industry
why after the finished video (DVD) does there seem to be color changes in clothing in each scene?
it’s not who knows your hits that makes your career, it’s the ones who know your “album cuts” that make you successful
We have some classic names cropping up - Hinson and Minick
I wanted my closing comments of the old year and first column of the new to be dedicated to the men and women who send Gospel music over the airways 365 days a year
Are you on target with your goals or are you still wondering aimlessly in the sea of Southern Gospel dreams
Trying to sing with a tight jaw makes your vocals sound strained, and they are. Let’s see how we can change that
During my days working at The Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame and Museum, I was a young and broke hopeful waiting to “make it” into the business
This Christmas, I pray you'll find peace in Him
And light up the skies - lost sinners to win! Line arrays are becoming extremely common in the audio industry and until recently have not been priced low enough or have been small enough to even consider
a swing-to-growth in U.S. album sales and surging consumption of music on DVD has helped to slow the decline in recorded music sales
Do you get tired of all the statistics that are totally unnecessary like I do?
You can't be creative unless you're at ease with the folks who are handling one of the most important decisions you might ever make
Can a quartet really be a family group? I didn't think this was possible until I traveled with these four guys...
When you build a building, you start with a blueprint. A good production “blueprint” is in the form of scripts, schedules and budgets
We interview guests to learn behind the scenes life stories and take an in depth look at artists from the gospel music community
NQC 2004 was SO much fun! What a delight it was to see our so many friends in one place and to make so many new friends!
In spite of the havoc and uncertainty caused by hurricanes, it was one of the best times I ever experienced at the National Quartet Convention
"Stage Appearance" - What kind of impact does the stage appearance have on the audience?
Physicists have recalculated the mass of the Earth and determined the planet is a bit lighter than previously thought
As we make our plans for the National Quartet Convention, I want to welcome you to visit us!
In this era of political correctness in which we live, I am often amazed at the phrases coined by figures who are quoted in the media
Traveling to different churches and concert settings you will encounter many different situations. This month we want to think about some of those circumstances and how to handle them
Have you noticed that today there is not only news of the Middle East nightly, but hourly on the TV and radio? If we look hard enough we can see the strife of Ishmael and Isaac
Oh my! The confusion! There are too many options! Picking out a console that's right for you can pick at your brain, keep you up at night, and empty your supply of Oreo cookies
What never changes, the rock that stands solid that we can always depend on is Jesus: the same yesterday, today forever
What an incredible celebration Easter is and what a beautiful love story!
What a dynamic picture I have in my mind that the Son of God crawled over on that cross Himself
I must admit that booking is the hardest part of a singing ministry
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This month is extremely important in the Southern Gospel Music genre, particularly the second week of September. For one week fans and artists get together for what seems like a never ending cycle of singing and fellowship (not to mention good food)!
I know how easy it is to get lost in the day-to-day shuffle of life. But we need to periodically step back, and look back at the cross, look back at the day Jesus reached out His nail-scared hand to us, look back at where we were then, and look back at every blessing, every change, every thing He has done in us to make us who we are today
So many times people want to believe God; they want to trust Him that everything is going to work out, but they don't want to submit to His Word. They want to just pray and have God miraculously come to their aid, but never check to see if what they're praying lines up with the Word
He said, duh Mom, it's Gospel Music and it carries the Gospel. I, for once in my life, was without words...
For a month I thought about this article. In honor of Mother's Day, I wanted to highlight the favorite songs of some of the "moms" on our label and tell you some of their favorite memories.
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How many who are reading this right now are facing a mountain they don't want to climb? How many feel like God has asked too much this time? How many feel overwhelmed, overloaded, and overrun?
For the past four months we have been covering modifications of our sounds in order to keep our pitches more consistent. It is sometimes confusing to understand the use of these modifications without an example to help us understand how we apply them. We want to give you a song that has been modified so that you can see how to use these in other songs that you singThe next time you hear the question, "What's in it for me?" or the phrase, "It's all about you," you can be equipped to witness to a hurting soul with answers like, "Let me share what really IS in it for you."
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Our world is saturated with fear right now, so much so that it's hard for even Christians to keep the fear at bay. Our world is on the brink of some major events. We're all praying for our nation's leaders. One mistake by any of the "players" right now, and this world would be in chaos.
We somehow seem to forget sometimes that the very same God that was there for Moses, Daniel, David and so many others, is the very same God we serve today. And even more important, He hasn't changed. If you can read in the Bible where He did something for someone else, you can trust Him to do the same for you
It doesn't matter whether Jesus was actually born on December 25th or not. It's important that we take the time to celebrate that He was born. It's important that we take the time to tell the Christmas Story again to all the children
I can't believe that Christmas time is here again. It is time for all the Christmas Music and a great time to start using those vowel modifications that we have been talking about in last months article. We want to continue with more of the vowels this month,too. I hope you have been practicing the ones that we covered last monthIt?s not the gifts that we give at this time of the year that really make a difference. It?s that little effort we make to say something to someone, or that smile we give. As all the kids were hugging Grandpa goodbye, they were really saying hello to a world of help to an old man
I find my joy in songs- specifically lyrics of songs. For me, joy comes from a different focus. I'm a "make lemonade out of lemons" kind of girl. As a believer, I have found my personal joy in the knowledge that I am saved by the grace of God
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In this age of Wall Street flux, coupled with multitudes of investment brokers vying to manage our "earthly" financial interests, who wouldn't feel overwhelmed and confused when trying to make the right choice? The good news is that God promises to take care of Christians' "spiritual interests."
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Summer is here hot and muggy, but that is the way it should be in the month of July. It's time for the outside concerts and that can be hard on the singing voice. Remember to drink plenty of water, not soft drinks, to keep the body hydrated
Weekly Chart
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Deon Unthank
John Scheideman
Chris Unthank
Susan Unthank
The Hoppers 
The Calvarymen 
Charlotte Ritchie 
Down East Boys 
James Crowley 
Common Bond Quartet 
Keith Barkley & Family Tradition 
Libbi Perry Stuffle 
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound 
Various Artists 
Legacy Five 
Gene McDonald 
Crabb Family
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Jeff Duffield |
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