Latest News
KAREN PECK AND NEW RIVER INVOLVED IN BUS / CAR CRASH
Karen Peck and New River was involved in a bus/car accident earlier today.
The group was almost home when an elderly gentleman driving a car crossed in
front of the New River bus. Ricky Gooch was driving at the time. In an effort to minimize the impact, he swerved into a nearby ditch. The driver of the car was airlifted to a hospital in Atlanta. Many witnesses have
confirmed that Ricky did all he could do to avoid the accident. The front
of the bus has significant damage. Everyone was thrown out of their bunks and seats, but only received minor bumps and bruises. The lone exception was New River product manager Dawn Hughes who sustained a broken finger.
Police on the scene said it was a miracle that the bus didn't flip when
Ricky tried to avoid the wreck by swerving into the ditch.
Karen asked that we pray for the gentleman who was driving the car.
A SPECIAL WORD FROM LIBBI
Dear Friends,
Words cannot begin to express our gratitude and appreciation for all of the kindness, well wishes, and prayers for my husband, Tracy Stuffle, and our family. As most of you know, Tracy suffered a heart attack last week while at home. It was then determined that he would need open heart surgery and five bypasses. The doctors were able to perform the surgery on Friday, August 13, without any issues, and Tracy is currently resting comfortably. We are expecting him to be released from the hospital on Tuesday, August 17, to begin his recovery at home.
Our family has been overwhelmed at the love and support from thousands across this land. "Thank you" seems so inadequate, but please know that it is from the heart. God has truly given my husband a second chance, for which we are so grateful. We know that we have a long road ahead of us for Tracy's recovery, but God is faithful.
Many people have asked, "What can we do?" Tracy and I ask two things of our many friends across the country. First and foremost, we humbly ask for your prayers as we begin the next phase of Tracy's rehabilitation and full recovery. Secondly, it would mean so much to Tracy and I that you support the group as they continue to travel in our absence. Tracy will not be on stage for several weeks, and I believe my place should be by his side as his wife, confidante, and primary caregiver. I do plan to go with the group when possible, but my priority will be Tracy's care. Katy Peach, Troy's wife, will be filling my position when I am not able to go with the group. (If you have ever heard her, you know she is an incredible singer!) Please know that the Perrys will be fulfilling all of our dates in the coming weeks. Your support will give us this much-needed time for Tracy to fully recover, and make the necessary adjustments in our lifestyle following this surgery.
Thank you again for your love and support. With Tracy's full health, we believe the future is brighter than ever for the Perrys.
Love,
Libbi Perry Stuffle
TRIBUTE QUARTET'S NEWEST ADDITION – RILEY CLARK
Crossroads recording artist, Tribute Quartet, is pleased to announce
the addition of eighteen-year-old Riley Harrison Clark as their new
tenor. Riley is originally from Fairland, OK, and is a graduate of the
Steve Hurst School of Music. Riley replaces Brian Alvey, who left the
group to accept a position in marketing and promotions.
Group manager Gary Casto says, “We are absolutely thrilled to have
found a wonderful Christian young man to join Tribute Quartet. He
brings to the group a strong and natural tenor voice that we know our
fans are going to love. In the short time I’ve known him, Riley has
shown maturity and Spiritual character, as well as a love for people.
We believe his passion fits perfectly with the mission and message of
our group, as well as all of southern gospel music. Josh Singletary,
Dennis Dugger, and I cannot wait to introduce Riley to our fans across
the country.”
Brian Alvey leaves Tribute Quartet with the blessing of Gary as well
as the other group members. “For the past two years our tenor
vocalist has done an outstanding job not only as a singer but also a
musician and song writer,” Gary says. “He leaves us with a spotless
record of service and our best wishes for much success in his future
career. The Bible says to everything there is a season, and during
Brian’s season with Tribute, he managed to make many fans and friends
who I know join us in our support of Brian and his future endeavors.”
Riley joins Tribute Quartet just as they are gearing up for their busy
summer and fall tour. Make your plans to find Tribute in concert soon
and welcome Riley to the wonderful world of Southern Gospel Music.
For more information on Tribute Quartet, visit their website at
www.tributequartet.com. Tribute is booked exclusively by The Harper
Agency, www.harperagency.com.
SG SONG PROFITS TO BENEFIT ALZHEIMER'S FOUNDATION
Singer/songwriter Mark Bishop tells reporters that he will be donating every cent of songwriter royalties derived from one of his new song's airplay to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America. Bishop's tune.."Just Pay Attention" is a tribute to people who care for a loved one suffering from Alzheimer's and other kinds of late-life memory loss or dementia. Mark says: "After personally witnessing the great love and patience extended by the families' husbands with wives, children with their moms and dads, I knew that I was witnessing God's love being displayed in a very real and tangible way." Mark goes on to say, "This song has been receiving very specific feedback when I perform it in concert. It seems that there are more people than I realized that are dealing with the effects of it. It is the most selfless love I have ever witnessed and it has to come from God."
Every penny from every radio play.. of "Just Pay Attention" will make a tangible difference in research and treatment toward someone who is dealing with this debilitating illness.
2010 SINGING NEWS FAN AWARDS - TOP FIVE NOMINEES
The second round of the 2010 Singing News Fan Awards ballots have been tabulated, and the top five nominees in each category are now listed on the magazine's website at: www.singingnews.com. The Harper Agency congratulates all of its nominees.
CRAWFORD BACK WITH THE KINGSMEN
Owner/manager Ray Dean Reese announced today that Randy Crawford is re-joining the ministry of the Kingsmen Quartet... effective immediately. According to PR information Randy will be filling the baritone/lead position for the group. Reese says: "Many will remember Randy from his past tenure with the Kingsmen Quartet. His unique vocal stylings can be heard on the 2002 top ten song, 'Justified'." Randy says he looks forward to seeing his many friends and fans across America as he embarks on this new chapter in his life.
Most recently Crawford sang with Brian Free & Assurance. Visit www.kingsmenquartet.com for more information.
Glenn Dustin featured on SIRIUS | XM SATELLiTE RADIO
Coming up on Daniel Britt & Friends, the week of 06/28/10: Every quartet has one: the foundation of the four-part harmony; the basement notes of the bass singer. In our one-on-one series, we pull Glenn Dustin aside from Legacy Five to hear his personal story of music, faith, and family. It's a spotlight on just one of the many team members who make up the great groups of Gospel: Glenn Dustin of Legacy Five, on the next Daniel Britt & Friends!
About Daniel Britt & Friends
Daniel Britt & Friends is available each week to nearly 50 million satellite subscribers* throughout the U.S. and Canada on SIRIUS XM SATELLiTE RADiO's enLighten (XM34; Sirius67) - Mondays at 7PM ET, Thursdays at 10PM ET, and Saturdays at 12 Noon ET. You can also catch the show online at xmradio.com, sirius.com, or with Dish Network on channel 6067. After the broadcast, you can download the extended interview from www.danielbritt.com
About SIRIUS XM Radio
SIRIUS XM Radio is America's satellite radio company delivering The Best Radio on Radio™ to more than 18 million subscribers, including commercial free music, and premier sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic and weather.
SIRIUS XM Radio has arrangements with every major automaker. SIRIUS XM Radio products are available at shop.sirius.com and shop.xmradio.com, and at retail locations nationwide, including Best Buy, Circuit City, RadioShack, Target, Sam's Club, and Wal-Mart.
*Through its partnerships with DirecTV and Dish Network, SIRIUS XM Radio programming is available to over 30 million satellite subscribers.
GO WEST, BOOTH BROTHERS... GO WEST!
The Booth Brothers are headed back to the left coast. This special series of
appearances will offer fans an opportunity to purchase VIP tickets to each
concert. VIPs get to attend a private reception before the concert. During
the reception.. the Booth Brothers will be telling stories from the road,
stories behind the songs they sing and will conduct a special question and
answer session with fans.
Tthe BBs west coast tour appearances:
June 11 Spring Arbor,MI
June 12 Mound City, MO
June 13 Akron, CO
June 14 Cody, WY
June 15 Boise, ID
June 16 Kalispell, MT
June 17 Richland, WA
June 18 Seattle, WA
June 19 Portland, OR
June 21 Wenatchee, WA
June 24 Stockton, CA
June 25 Tulare, CA
June 26 Highland, CA
For more information on tour venues, visit www.boothbrothers.com.
Memorial Day Celebration Cancellation
Dear friends,
As you all know, Middle Tennessee has experienced a historic series of storms that resulted in record rainfall and now widespread flooding. Gaylord Opryland Resort, which sits adjacent to the Cumberland River, suffered flood damage in the early hours of Monday, May 3, 2010 as the river rose to levels that have not been seen in the last 50 years and breached the levees.
As a result of these floods, Opryland Hotel is currently closed and will not be able to accommodate the annual Memorial Day Celebration. We thought that we had an alternate venue secured but then that venue informed us that they had made a mistake and they were not able to help us after all. We have exhausted all options and have unfortunately been unable to make acceptable arrangements for Memorial Day. Therefore, regrettably we will have to re-schedule the Memorial Day Celebration for a later time. Currently, we are trying to secure dates for later this year at the Gaylord Opryland hotel and we will let you know as soon as those arrangements are finalized. Perhaps a Christmas or a New Year's Eve Celebration will be possible. The Hotel is absolutely magnificent during the Christmas season.
Opryland Hotel will be refunding deposits and payments for all reservations scheduled for arrival over the next 90 days. We greatly appreciate your patience and Opryland requests that you allow several weeks for processing.
Please know that we tried everything in our power to find a suitable substitute for Opryland Hotel, but nothing was available in the greater Nashville area. We are so very disappointed and we know that our 1000 friends will be as well. We will continue to work very diligently to make a very special alternative available quickly. Please continue to watch www.legacyfive.com for updates. God Bless you, our friends for your gracious understanding. We love you and look forward to seeing you at another Celebration soon.
If you have any questions, please email them to scottfowler@legacyfive.com.
Scott Fowler
Legacy Five
Derrick Selph To Return As
Brian Free & Assurance's Baritone
Hendersonville, TN (May 12, 2010) - Brian Free & Assurance is pleased to announce the return of Derrick Selph to the group's baritone position. Derrick is thrilled to get back serving God singing Gospel music with BFA.
Derrick will be making his first return appearance on May 20th. Brian Free expressed, “Derrick has been off the road since July of last year. He says he's ready to come back for good and we're excited to have him back.”
Randy Crawford will be leaving the group on May 16th.
To learn more about Brian Free & Assurance, visit, www.brianfreeandassurance.com. For further information regarding the Daywind family of artists, visit www.daywindrecords.com.
Karen Peck & New River Participate In A Very Special National Day Of Prayer
In Nashville, TN - (Prayer Event Brings Hope and Comfort
To Flood Ravaged Middle Tennessee)
Nashville, TN (May 7, 2010) -Daywind recording artist, Karen Peck & New River came to the flood ravaged area of Nashville, TN yesterday to share their vocal talents for the city's National Day Of Prayer event. The event was held on the plaza by Bridgestone Arena on Broadway. It was organized and presented by YMCA of Middle TN and The Operation Andrew Group.
Karen Peck & New River sang, along with other musical guests, Jaci
Velasquez, Paris Delane, and Tina Hutchison. The event was planned before
the devastating floodwaters roared over Nashville and its surrounding
communities last weekend, but the timing brought even deeper meaning to the
gathering. Karen Peck & New River shared two of their top songs, both of
which were incredibly fitting for that moment. One of those expressed a
message of Christian love, caring, and community called "Why Can't All God's
Children Get Along." The other offered the assurance that God never leaves
us and His timing and grace are always sufficient when life happens, as it
has in Nashville over this past week. The title of that song is "Four Days
Late."
The Mayor of Nashville, Karl Dean, attended and spoke briefly at the
beginning of the gathering. Several other pastors were also in attendance
to lead in prayer. One of those was Rev. German Castro. Castro, pastor of El
Shaddai Christian Church in Brentwood, a predominately Hispanic
congregation, had to be rescued from his church on Sunday after 5 feet water
surrounded it. He expressed that prayer will help his congregation and
Nashville to recover. He shared with those in attendance the importance of
prayer in times like these. "No matter what happens, there's still hope," he
said. "God is still in control."
The Executive Director of Operation Andrew, Michael Arrington, was a main
organizer of the gathering. He shared, "It was several months ago that we
chose the theme, "For Such A Time As This," for our National Day Of Prayer
gathering. We never dreamed that time would be during such a difficult time
for our city and the Middle TN community. The heartfelt prayer and
incredible music, that led us to worship together, could not have been more
fitting for this occasion as we prayed for our nation, our state and our
city."
To learn more about Karen Peck and New River, visit www.karenpeckandnewriver.com. To learn more about YMCA of Middle TN visit, www.ymcamidtn.org. For more on The Operation Andrew Group, visit www.operationandrew.org. For further information regarding the Daywind family of artists, visit www.daywindrecords.com.
ISAACS win Dove Award
The Isaacs were awarded the Dove award Wednesday evening, April 21st for the Bluegrass Album of the Year at the annual 41st Dove Awards which will air on the GMC network Sunday evening, April 25th. For a complete listing of all Dove Award winners visit www.gospelmusic.org
NEW HIGH-PROFILE ARTIST PERFORMANCES ADDED TO 41st ANNUAL GMA DOVE AWARDS, APRIL 21, AT THE GRAND OLE OPRY HOUSE
Powerhouse Lineup to include Performances by tobyMac, Casting Crowns, Bebe & Cece Winans, Natalie Grant with Jordin Sparks, MercyMe, Ricky Skaggs and a Special Tribute for 100 Years of Southern Gospel
(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) March 30, 2010: Many of the most popular acts in gospel/Christian music continue to be added to the performance lineup for the anticipated 41st Annual GMA Dove Awards, gospel music's biggest night of the year, held on Wednesday, April 21, 2010, at Nashville's historic Grand Ole Opry House. The buzz-worthy show will feature artists from every style coming together for a night of music, celebration and never-before-seen collaborations coming to life only once on this stage.
The newest performers announced include Dove-winning Artist of the Year, tobyMac with Diverse City, famed GRAMMY-winners Bebe & Cece Winans, and GMA's reigning Female Vocalist of the Year for four consecutive years, Natalie Grant with special guest American Idol Season 6 winner, Jordin Sparks. The genre's five-time Dove Award-winning Group of the Year, Casting Crowns plans for a mass children's choir to join the live performance of its No. 1 song "Until the Whole World Hears."
Also confirmed is platinum-selling band MercyMe, GRAMMY-winning bluegrass icon Ricky Skaggs, Stellar Award-winning Artist and Producer of Year Donald Lawrence teaming up with Southern Gospel power vocalist Jason Crabb, plus Artist of the Year nominee Francesca Battistelli, New Artist nominee Kari Jobe with hitmakers Phillips, Craig & Dean, legendary singer/songwriter Gordon Kennedy, and a special musical tribute honoring 100 years of Southern Gospel featuring the Blackwood Brothers, Booth Brothers, Legacy 5, Crabb Family, The Perrys and Mosie Lister.
The 41st Annual GMA Dove Awards will be televised nationwide on gmc (http://www.gmclife.com), Sunday, April 25, 2010 from 8 p.m. - 10 p.m. EST. While the awards are the purpose of the show, music performances will definitely share center stage at the GMA Dove Awards, showcasing some of gospel music's hottest and most diverse artists. Dove Awards will be handed out in 43 categories. Dove Awards nominations go to recordings released during the eligibility year November 1, 2008 through October 31, 2009 and voted on by the members of the GMA. The complete nominations list is available at both http://www.gospelmusic.org and http://www.doveawards.com.
Tickets to the 41st Annual GMA Dove Awards are currently on sale through the Grand Ole Opry Call Center, 1-800-SEE-OPRY/1-800-733-6779, via the web at www.opry.com or may be purchased in-person at The Opry Box Office located at the Opry House at 2804 Opryland Drive and the Ryman Auditorium Box Office at 116 5th Ave North, in downtown Nashville. Ticket prices range from $25 - $200.
About GMA: Founded in 1964, the Gospel Music Association serves as the face and voice for the Christian/Gospel music community and is dedicated to exposing, promoting and celebrating the Gospel through music of all styles including Pop, Rock, Praise & Worship, Urban Gospel, R&B, Hip Hop, Southern Gospel, Bluegrass, Country and more. The GMA community consists of more than 2,200 members including agents, artists, church leaders, managers, promoters, radio personnel, record company executives, retailers, songwriters and other industry visionaries. The GMA produces the GMA Dove Awards, GMA Dove Week and IMMERSE. For more on supporting the GMA or becoming a member, please visit www.gospelmusic.org or contact the GMA directly at 615.277.1376.
About GMC: gmc is the fastest-growing network in television and can be seen in 46 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224. www.gmclife.com
Dove Award Nominees Announced
Nashville, TN – The Gospel Music Association announced the final nominees for the 41st GMA Dove Awards this week. The 2010 Dove Awards will be held on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at Nashville's famed Grand Ole Opry House and televised nationwide on Gospel Music Channel (GMC) television network (www.gospelmusicchannel.com), Sunday, April 25th. The awards show will be hosted by Natalie Grant and Bart Millard. Artists scheduled to perform include Casting Crowns, TobyMac, Natalie Grant, Donald Lawrence, Jason Crabb and MercyMe.
This year's nominees, represented by The Harper Agency include:
Karen Peck & New River
Song of the Year – "Why Can't All God's Children Get Along"
Written by Stephen Hill; Christian Taylor Music (BMI), Dingo Bat Music (BMI)
Female Vocalist of the Year – Karen Peck Gooch
Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year – "If You Knew Him"
The Perrys, Almost Morning
Written by Joseph Habedank, Rodney Griffin; Daywind
The Perrys
Southern Gospel Album of the Year Album – Almost Morning
Produced by Wayne Haun; Daywind
Brian Free & Assurance
Southern Gospel Album of the Year Album – Worth It
Produced by Barry Weeks; Daywind
The Isaacs
Bluegrass Album of the Year – The Isaacs....Naturally
Produced by Bill Gaither, Ben Isaacs; Gaither Music Group
Jeff Hawes Joins Karen Peck & New River
Dahlonega, GA - Karen Peck Gooch, of Karen Peck & New River, has announced
the addition of Jeff Hawes to the group's vocal line-up. "Susan and I are very excited to have Jeff as part of our group," says
Karen. "Jeff is an anointed singer and we feel that God has great plans for
this young man. We hope everyone who attends our concerts will take the time
to meet Jeff."
Jeff Hawes is a native of Flat Rock, Alabama. He has previously been teaching English for the Jackson County School District, most recently teaching 12th grade English at Pisgah High School. Jeff began singing on stage around the age of five years old and has always wanted to touch people's lives through song, but it was after his tenure at Troy University that Jeff's "gospel dream" became a reality.
In 2008, Jeff auditioned with hundreds of hopeful gospel singers for a
chance to be on the Gospel Music Channel's hit reality show Gospel Dream.
Jeff was one of three chosen to represent Atlanta when the show was taped in
Nashville. The show aired in June 2008, and after making it through two
extremely tough rounds of competition, Jeff made the top 12 in the nation.
After his time on Gospel Dream, Jeff went on to compete in Orlando, Fla.,
for the AMTC (Actors, Models, and Talent) Competition in which Jeff was
chosen for their highly esteemed Talent Show. Jeff performed in front of top
producers and agents from across the world. While at the competition, Jeff
was asked to travel with Stained Glass Marriage Ministries from Birmingham,
Ala., in which he played keyboard and led worship for their Praise and
Worship Team. Jeff also was hand chosen by Jeremi Richardson of the contemporary group
Avalon to sing with the Cleveland Carolers during the 2008 Christmas season.
In March of 2009, Jeff competed in the annual Aaron Wilburn Talent Search at Hoofers Gospel Barn in LaGrange, Ga., where Jeff won 1st place in the Contemporary Christian Division. Wilburn was a huge supporter of Hawes and allowed him to open for one of his shows in Alabama. As a result of winning in LaGrange, Jeff advanced to the National Quartet Convention Talent Search in Louisville, Kentucky where he placed in the Top 10.
Jeff has a true desire to minister to the lost. "My goal is to magnify the name of Jesus and give all honor, praise and glory to His name," says Jeff. "I'm thrilled to even be singing on the same stage with Karen Peck & New River, and I'm greatly humbled and excited to be their newest addition. I cannot thank Karen and Susan enough for having the confidence in me and the faith in God to give me this chance of a lifetime."Throughout the audition process, I've stuck by my favorite scripture of Proverbs 3:6: 'In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.'"
Tribute Quartet Signs Agreement with Crossroads
Arden, NC – Crossroads Entertainment & Marketing has recently signed the Singing News Fan Awards 2008 Horizon Group of the Year winner, Tribute Quartet, to its roster. In their appearance, warmth and style, this gifted group, based in Nashville Tennessee, has done exactly what it set out to do. That vision is to "preserve the heritage and promote the future", of southern gospel music." Lead singer and group manager Gary Casto states, "We consider it a blessing and a privilege to be involved with a company such as Crossroads. Being an industry leader as they are, we believe it gives us the best opportunity to undergird our efforts with some of the best professionals in the business. We look forward to a long lasting relationship with the company and are excited to share the talents that God has given us with everyone we can."
Crossroads executive Chris White added, "There are few groups that I know of in our industry that will outwork Tribute Quartet. At the end of the day, that's what it takes to be successful. Their talent speaks for itself. Their tireless energy to succeed is unbelievable and their commitment to their ministry is matched by few. When you put all those factors together, you have a winning combination and we're excited to add whatever help we can to their success."
The group's newest record, For This Time, was released in November. The first single, "That's Why I Love Him So", has just been shipped to world wide radio. Be looking for the project in stores everywhere and through the company's web site at www.crossroadsmusic.com.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Please Welcome
The Mark Trammell Quartet!
Hendersonville, TN (January 12, 2010) – George Younce said it best, “Mark Trammell is a ‘quartet man,’ period.” After two years of soul searching as the craft of the traditional gospel quartet became scarce, Mark Trammell is pursuing his life-long dream of having his own traditional male gospel quartet.
“All I'm really doing is returning to my roots,” stated Mark. “I was trained by some of the greatest men to ever take a quartet to the stage and I'm very excited about MTQ endeavoring to raise the bar when it comes our music and being able to minister to, as well as entertain our friends and fans."
Mark has always been about singing and not gimmicks. He reminds us that Glen Payne and George Younce taught him that at the end of the day if you want to be successful in stirring the hearts of the people, you MUST sing TO their hearts, and not just their heads.
Mark admits that there was a motive behind his decision to announce the change before knowing who the bass singer was going to be. While he openly states that this was not necessarily a “religious” awakening, he did want the right man for the position. In making the announcement the way he did, the prospects came to him, instead of him going on a search to find the right man.
The right man is Pat Barker. Pat has developed a reputation as one of today’s smoothest bass singers. Pat will be joining Mark Trammell, Dustin Sweatman and Joel Wood at the beginning of February 2010.
The quartet will be in the studio soon working on a summer release from Daywind Records.
Daywind Records is based in Hendersonville, TN, and is distributed worldwide through New Day Christian Distributors. In addition to the Mark Trammell Quartet, Daywind is home to such great artists as Greater Vision, the Perrys, and Legacy Five, among others. For more on the Mark Trammell Quartet, visit marktrammellministries.com. The Mark Trammell Quartet is booked by the Harper Agency. Contact them at harperagency.com to schedule this quartet for your church service or event.
For further information regarding the Daywind family of artists, visit daywindrecords.com.
Changes On The Horizon For The Mark Trammell Trio
Gadsden, AL - One of Southern Gospel's Top Five trios will be making some major changes in early 2010. Mark Trammell announced today that after two years of encouragement from both fans and industry friends, the Mark Trammell Trio will change its name to the Mark Trammell Quartet in the very near future.
"For over seven years our trio has enjoyed great success as a new group that God has allowed to start from literally nothing to what it is today," says Mark. "I guess George Younce was right: I am, and always have been, a quartet man at heart. We are excited about the days ahead and being able to deliver our brand of traditional four part harmony to those who have been such a great encouragement."
Who will be the bass singer for the Mark Trammell Quartet? The announcement is just a few weeks away!
The Tribute Quartet Signs With The Harper Agency
Goodlettsville, TN - One of Christian music’s leading booking agencies, The Harper Agency has announced the addition of talented Christian recording artist, The Tribute Quartet, to an exclusive scheduling agreement. This popular quartet has enjoyed much success in recent years since their formation in 2006, including the 2008 Fan Award for Horizon Group of the Year by subscribers of The Singing News Magazine, as well as the 2008 SoGospel News.com Breakthrough Artist of the Year honor.
According to Ed Harper of the Harper Agency, The Tribute Quartet is dedicated to preserving the heritage of Southern Gospel Music, as well as promoting its future. “We are very excited about Gary Casto and The Tribute Quartet becoming a part of our agency,” Harper states. “They are a first-class quartet, dedicated to preserving the musical stylings Southern Gospel Music was founded on, with a fresh approach. We are excited about their future and are thrilled to be a part of that future."
Likewise, Gary Casto, lead vocalist and group manager, says The Tribute Quartet is thrilled to be a part of the Harper Agency. “We are very excited about this new beginning with the Harper Agency,” Casto shares. “They are one of the premier agencies in the business, and we are excited about our future with Ed Harper and his team.”
The Tribute Quartet may be scheduled by contacting the Harper Agency at 615-851-4500 or via e-mail at info@harperagency.com. A complete list of artists scheduled by the Harper Agency is available at www.harperagency.com.
Photo L to R: Jeff Harper, Gary Casto, Ed Harper
Karen Peck &New River’s No Worries Named Among
Gospel Music Channel’s Top 10 Best Albums Of The Year
Hendersonville, TN (December 2, 2009) - Daywind Records is honored to announce that Karen Peck & New River’s new album, No Worries, was named among Gospel Music Channel’s (GMC) Top 10 Best Albums of 2009.
The album, produced by Mark Fain, has been receiving tremendous accolades. GMC’s panel of experts named it the top Southern Gospel/Country release of the year. The radio single from the album, “Why Can’t All God’s Children Get Along,” which landed at stations across the country recently, has already made it to the top 20 in the Singing News chart.
Karen Peck & New River will be appearing on virtually all of the Gaither Homecoming events, in 2010, showcasing this new album.
To see the full story and complete list of GMC’s Top 10 Best, visit gospelmusicchannel.com.
Daywind Records is based in Hendersonville, TN, and is distributed worldwide through New Day Christian Distributors. In addition to Karen Peck & New River, Daywind is home to such great artists as the Perrys and the Booth Brothers, among others.
For more information on Karen Peck & New River, visit karenpeckandnewriver.com. For more information on Daywind Records, visit daywindrecords.com.
McKameys Celebrate the #1 Success of Between Twelve and Thirty Three
Arden, NC–The McKameys were recently honored for their latest #1 single “Between Twelve and Thirty Three.” The song topped the Singing News Top 80 Chart for the month of November. The group came by the Crossroads office and studios in Arden, NC for a luncheon hosted by the label on Monday October 26th, during which radio promoter Jim Stover and Horizon Records owner Mickey Gamble joined other company leaders and staff to present the group with a plaque commemorating the success of the group’s 21st #1 radio single. Coinciding with this milestone event, the renowned singing family has a new album debuting November 17th entitled The Message. You can pre-order a physical copy or download at www.crossroadsmusic.com.
Congratulations to the McKameys, we look forward to more moments like this!
Crossroads Entertainment & Marketing, Inc is based in Arden, NC and is distributed worldwide through Crossroads Distribution, Select-O-Hits, and Ministry Partners International. Crossroads subsidiaries also include Crossroads Distribution, Horizon Records, Sonlite Records, Mountain Home Music, Pinnacle Records and Crossroads Records.
Legacy Five Announce New Tenor
According to Legacy Five's internet blog.. the group has announced their
selection for a tenor to replace Frank Seamans. The new L5 tenor will be
Gus Gaches. The blog says: "He's the man that Frank recommended fill in for
him if he should have to be out during Frank, Jr.s illness. Fortunately,
Frank never had to be absent; however, when Frank decided to go back home to
be with his family, Frank reminded us to call Gus. We did and the rest is
soon to be history."
Gus Gaches previously sang tenor for the LeFevre Quartet.
Whisnants featured on SIRIUS | XM SATELLiTE RADIO
Coming up on Daniel Britt & Friends, the week of 10/26/09: The Whisnants
have been a staple of Gospel Music's Mixed Group category for years. Now,
you'll have the opportunity to hear the Whisnants' story first-hand, as
Daniel sits down with Jeff & Susan, and teammate, Aaron Hise. Great music,
dynamic harmony, and a sweet family -- don't miss this hour of fun with The
Whisnants, on the next Daniel Britt & Friends.
About Daniel Britt & Friends
Daniel Britt & Friends is available each week to nearly 50 million satellite subscribers* throughout the U.S. and Canada on SIRIUS XM SATELLiTE RADiO's enLighten (XM34; Sirius67) - Mondays at 7PM ET, Thursdays at 10PM ET, and Saturdays at 12 Noon ET. You can also catch the show online at xmradio.com, sirius.com, or with DirecTV on channel 828 and Dish Network on channel 6067. After the broadcast, you can download the extended interview from www.danielbritt.com
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CONCERT OF THE DECADE FEATURING AMY GRANT, MICHAEL W. SMITH, CASTING CROWNS, MERCYME, NATALIE GRANT, KIRK FRANKLIN, & OTHERS, TO BE BROADCAST WORLDWIDE ON
OCTOBER 12
Historical Event To Be Largest Christian Concert Ever Streamed Online
Nashville, TN -- Godbeat.com, HearItFirst.com and 316Networks.com, in support of the Gospel Music Association (GMA), have agreed to offer a live web broadcast of the October 12 concert event featuring some of Christian and Gospel music's most renowned artists. The concert will be aired at www.ConcertoftheDecade.com and feature notable performers Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Casting Crowns, MercyMe, Natalie Grant, Kirk Franklin, Point of Grace, Fisk Jubilee Singers and The Booth Brothers. The collaboration between these two websites and 316Networks.com, a video platform provider, will create the largest Christian concert ever streamed exclusively online, according to the website executives.
"We are thrilled to be able to offer our services and website to the Gospel Music Association to allow fans a chance to attend this once-in-a-lifetime concert event," says Jeff Myers, president and founder of Godbeat.com and Godbeat Media. "To have these artists on one stage together is utterly amazing. This may never happen again. The GMA has been the backbone of the Christian Music Industry for years and we are glad to partner with HearItFirst.com and 316Networks.com to help make this concert a great success."
"The tremendous artist lineup coupled with a great cause is right in line with what HearItFirst.com is all about," says Mark Adkison, president and founder, HearitFirst.com. "We're all about connecting fans to some of the best artists the gospel music industry has to offer, and this event is the epitome of that goal. Our hope is that fans around the world will take advantage of being part of this historical event."
The concert is a fundraiser for the Gospel Music Association and will be $1000 per ticket for those attending the event at the Loveless Café & Barn in Nashville. However, there will be no fee for the world-wide live stream, although fans will need to reserve a ticket at www.ConcertoftheDecade.com. Although attending the concert online is free, tax-deductible donations to the GMA Foundation, a 501 (c)3 corporation (Fed ID 62-0783972) will be encouraged during the broadcast. The artists involved as well as the websites have all donated their time and expenses to support the GMA Foundation.
"This will be a concert that will appeal to Christian music fans across the globe," says Eddie DeGarmo, President, EMI CMG Publishing and member of the GMA Executive Committee. "I can't remember another occasion when so many marquee artists appeared on the same stage together."
Highland Software (www.highlandsoftware.com) is designing and hosting the donation page and elements for this event, and The A Group (www.agroup.com) is serving as builder and host for the www.ConcertoftheDecade.com website.
Godbeat.com is a digital media website that has seen massive growth, with an increase of over 420% in unique visitors the past few months. Godbeat.com features exclusive videos, live streaming concert events, along with up-to-date Christian music industry news, artist releases, reviews and much more. Godbeat.com connects fans with their favorite artist in a personal way using multiple media platforms. Godbeat.com has a full spectrum of tools including a soon-to-be-released social networking element akin to YouTube.com that allows users to upload and share videos, create profiles and to share their personal video stories, concert footage or other home-made videos in a family-friendly environment. Godbeat.com also broadcasts an exclusive monthly concert series-Godbeat Live --streamed live from various Nashville venues featuring nationally-renowned artists as well as independent Christian artists and bands.
HearItFirst.com is a definitive online destination for the Christian music fan. Filled with rich content covering the entire Christian music industry, HIF boasts a membership of over 225,000 registered users, and hosts an array of features on the site, including Exclusive Content Rich Media - videos, photos & audio streams, Genre Sections, Artist Pages, News, New Releases, Store, Tour Information, Community and Blogs. HearItFirst.com is the premier destination for Christian music enthusiasts to connect within a fan community to enjoy the newest and most exclusive content and information from their favorite artists.
316 Networks exists to equip churches and ministries with comprehensive technology-driven resources to effectively implement new media communication strategies. Their technology includes an Internet video platform that offers clients the ability to manage live and on-demand digital media assets, distribute published content, integrate social media strategies, and measure audience interaction, behavior and viewership. Additionally, the online portal, www.316networks.com, creates a consumer destination for social networking, industry insights, and exposure to sponsor-based products and services.
For more information, visit www.ConcertoftheDecade.com, www.Godbeat.com, or www.HearItFirst.com.
Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver Joins The Harper Agency
Goodlettsville, TN - One of Christian music’s leading booking agencies, The Harper Agency has announced the addition of multi-award winning bluegrass Gospel group, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver to the agency’s list of artists. Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver was awarded Vocal Group of the Year by the International Bluegrass Music Association seven consecutive years. The group also received the honor of IBMA’s Gospel Performance of the Year three years in a row, with recording projects released by Crossroads Entertainment. Lawson’s latest Gospel recording, Help Is On The Way, which released in the Spring of 2008, has afforded the popular group yet more success, as the title cut became the recording’s first Number One song on Southern Gospel Music’s Singing News Magazine National Top 80 Radio Airplay Chart, a first for the Bluegrass legend, and his second release, “Eternity Has Two” became a Top 5 release.
According to Jeff Harper, The Harper Agency will be scheduling Lawson and his popular group at Christian music events and concert events in churches nationwide. “We are very excited about the opportunity to work with this legendary group,” Harper states. “Over the years they have enjoyed tremendous success in the bluegrass music genre and with the success they have enjoyed in recent years in the Gospel music field, there is a great demand for them at Christian music events and churches, as well."
Daywind Artist Karen Peck Gooch Named First Female SGMA President
Hendersonville, TN (Sept. 25, 2009) – Daywind Artist, Karen Peck Gooch (Karen Peck and New River), became the very first female president of the Southern Gospel Music Association (SGMA) last week during an annual meeting held at the National Quartet Convention.
The SGMA is a non-profit corporation formed as an association of Southern Gospel singers, songwriters, fans, and industry workers. Membership is acquired and maintained through payment of annual dues. The SGMA was formed in 1994, and states that its primary goal is “to preserve, protect and promote Southern Gospel music, its history and heritage.”
Karen Peck Gooch expressed, “I am very honored to be the first woman president for the SGMA. I've been traveling professionally for 29 years. I have had the privilege and honor to travel with two of the greatest men in Southern Gospel Music, Rex Nelon and Alphus LeFevre (SGMA) Hall of Fame Inductees). My heart’s desire is to see this industry grow and to see the heritage of Southern Gospel music preserved.”
To learn more about the SGMA, visit www.sgma.org. To learn more about Karen Peck and New River, visit www.karenpeckandnewriver.com.
Daywind Records is based in Hendersonville, TN, and is distributed worldwide through New Day Christian Distributors. For more information on Daywind Records and their award-winning family of artists, visit www.daywindrecords.com.
Several Harper Agency Artists Winners at SINGING NEWS FAN AWARDS
The Harper Agency was well represented at the SINGING NEWS FAN AWARDS held
at NQC Saturday evening, September 19th. We congratulate the following
recipients:
Baritone -
Brady, Jim Booth Brothers
Young Artist -
Habedank, Joseph The Perrys
Lead - Booth, Ronnie Booth Brothers
Tenor - Booth, Michael Booth Brothers
Alto -
Stuffle, Libbi The Perrys
Male Singer - Booth, Ronnie Booth Brothers
Horizon Group - Crist Family
Album -
Room For More Booth Brothers
Trio - Booth Brothers
Song - What Salvation's Done For Me Booth Brothers
Favorite Artist of the Year - Booth Brothers
For more info visit www.singingnews.com
Legacy Five, Greater Vision, and the Booth Brothers To Film Jubilee,
A Live Concert Event At Gaylord Opryland Resort®
Hendersonville, TN (August 27, 2009) – Every Labor Day weekend Daywind Records’ artist, Legacy Five, puts together an incredible concert celebration at the Gaylord Opryland Resort®. This year they are including a very special event, along with Greater Vision and the Booth Brothers, as these three dynamic groups come together to film a live concert DVD entitled Jubilee.
The event will take place on Sunday, September 6th. The evening will begin with a concert from Legacy Five, Greater Vision, and the Booth Brothers, along with Mark Lowry and Stan Whitmire. The concert will begin at 6:00pm, and then following intermission the three groups will take the stage to film Jubilee. The recording will feature songs from the individual groups as well as groups created from within the three groups. It will finish with a grand finale of all three combined. The concert will last a total of 4 hours.
Scott Fowler of Legacy Five shared, “I am especially excited about the live video because we actually make up groups from within our three groups and it is just going to be SO MUCH FUN! This is one of those moments of a lifetime. It’s history in the making.”
Typical of his humor and wit, Michael Booth, tenor for the Booth Brothers, had this to share about the concert. “This particular live concert event is the most exciting thing since the invention of attention deficit disorder medication!”
Join Legacy Five, Greater Vision, and the Booth Brothers for this memorable event. Tickets for the concert and live filming on Sunday evening are $20 in advance. For more information on this event and the entire weekend celebration, visit legacyfive.com and click on Special Events. You can order tickets today by calling the Legacy Five office at 615-794-9125.
Daywind Records is based in Hendersonville, TN, and is distributed worldwide through New Day Christian Distributors. In addition to Legacy Five, Greater Vision, and the Booth Brothers, Daywind is home to such great artists as Austins Bridge and the Perrys, among others. For more information on all the talented artists at Daywind, visit daywindrecords.com.
McKameys Back In The Studio
Arden, NC - The McKameys were recently at Crossroads Studios recording the music tracks for their upcoming fall release. “The McKameys continue to select incredible songs that work so well for them and their audience,” states co-producer Jeff Collins. “We knew when we were cutting the songs and listening to the lyrics that the McKameys very likely have more hits on the way!” Peg commented that “Sheryl was a little apprehensive about being in the studio for the first time in a good while, but soon was at ease and enjoyed a wonderful day of creativity and fun. Everyone had a great time in the studio, and we look forward to finishing up our vocal tracks soon.”
Look for the new McKameys release in November of this year.
Photo L to R: Co-producer Roger Fortner, musicians David Johnson and Tony Creasman, Sheryl Farris, engineer Scott Barnett, Eli Fortner, Peg Bean, Connie Fortner, Ruben Bean, co-producer Jeff Collins
The Perrys Plan For The Future With Daywind Records
Hendersonville, TN (August 17, 2009) – Daywind Records is honored to announce that the Perrys have renewed their recording agreement with Daywind, continuing a relationship that began in 1997, as a joint effort to strive to make great music that reaches hearts and changes lives. Both the Perrys and Daywind have enjoyed tremendous success though this relationship and they look forward to the years ahead.
Ed Leonard, President of Daywind Records shares "We are thrilled that the Perrys have extended their relationship with the Daywind family of artists. After so many lives blessed and great music created together, we are honored to go into the future with one of Gospel music's greatest treasures."
The Perrys are currently celebrating one of the fastest rising songs at Southern Gospel radio with “If You Knew Him.” Group member, Joseph Habedank, and Rodney Griffin wrote this incredible song together. The response has been overwhelming. The entire album, entitled, Almost Morning, is being reviewed as one the best Perrys releases to date.
Tracy Stuffle, along with all of the Perrys, is equally pleased to continue at Daywind Records. Tracy expressed, “We are excited that, after 12 years, Daywind is still our family. We look forward to continuing our relationship of recording quality projects. We are very excited about our future to come.”
For more information on the Perrys, visit perrysministries.com. For more information on all the talented artists at Daywind, visit daywindrecords.com.
Daywind Records is based in Hendersonville, TN, and is distributed worldwide through New Day Christian Distributors. In addition to the Perrys, Daywind is home to such great artists as the Crabb Revival, and Greater Vision, and Mark Trammell Trio, among others.
Ed Leonard (President of Daywind Records), Tracy Stuffle (Perrys), and Norman Holland (Vice President of Daywind Records and Director of A & R)
Family and Friends Tour at NQC 2009
Ten years ago, the McKameys and Inspirations appeared on select dates together, known as the Family and Friends Tour. Singing some of their most known songs, as well as some new songs, and even some songs together, the demand for the Family and Friends concerts far exceeded the intended one year time period. The tour has been going strong for the past ten years. The Family and Friends Tour will celebrate their 10th Anniversary with a special appearance in an afternoon showcase at the National Quartet Convention, September 16, in Louisville, Kentucky.
visit: www.natqc.com and www.mckameysonline.com
Daywind Records Announces Nationwide Release of The Perrys’
New Album, Almost Morning, Coming this Tuesday
Hendersonville, TN (June 5, 2009) - Daywind Records’ artist, the Perrys, have a brand new album coming out next week. The album, entitled Almost Morning, hits retail stores nationwide Tuesday, June 9. It will also be available on iTunes and at other various Internet outlets.
The album includes 10 great songs. The debut single, “If You Knew Him,” arrived at radio last month. This powerful ballad, co-written by Rodney Griffin (Greater Vision) and Joseph Habedank (Perrys), is already receiving a great response from listeners.
The album is receiving accolades as well. Reviews are beginning to come in and they are strong. Wes Burke, who hosts an Internet blog called Burke’s Brainwork, praised the album in a recent review. Here is a portion of his response; “Wayne Haun produced this album, and really stretched the Perrys musically. The work that went into the album is very obvious. Personally, this is quite possibly my favorite project that I’ve heard from the group. Haun and the Perrys can feel very proud of this effort; it’s another must-have for the year. The title track alone is worth the price of the CD.”
Daywind Records is based in Hendersonville, TN, and is distributed worldwide through New Day Christian Distributors. In addition to the Perrys, Daywind is home to many great artists such as Triumphant Quartet, Greater Vision, Crabb Revival and others.
For more information on the Perrys, visit www.perrysministries.com. To learn more about or www.daywindrecords.com