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Reunion Becomes The Todd Nelon Quartet November 26, 2001
(Press Release) - Todd Nelon announces a change of the name of his group from Reunion to The Todd Nelon Quartet. The change became necessary when Todd Nelon became aware that a group from Portage, IN had secured the exclusive rights of the name Reunion. "When I conceived the idea to start my own group and selected the guys I wanted to sing with, the name Reunion seemed like a natural choice. However, after I met the gentleman from Reunion from Indiana I knew the right thing to do to avoid confusion was to change the name of my group. One of the things I learned from my Dad was to do the right thing no matter the cost."
In selecting a new name for his group, Todd also took another cue from his father SGMA Hall of Fame member Rex Nelon. When Rex changed the name of The LeFevres following the retirement of the all the LeFevre family, he decided to go with the name The Rex Nelon Singers. The group became one of the most recognized mixed quartets in the history of Southern Gospel music.
"That name change did pretty well for Dad and I hope that history can repeat itself. At the very least we should be safe with this name change because I do not know of another Todd Nelon in Southern Gospel Music,"laughs Todd.
The Todd Nelon Quartet's current single, "When It's Up To God" has been released by Homeland Entertainment and is on Homeland Hits Vol. 35. The group is currently scheduling dates for 2002. For more information, call 770-222-4406, or visit the group online at www.toddnelon.com
Steeles Launch Recording Label November 26, 2001
(Press Release) - After many questions over the past few months The Steeles wish to announce that they have launched a new recording label, SteelesMusic and have signed The Steeles to the label.
Jeff Steele states, "When we came to this business we had our own label and the time just seemed right to go back in that direction."
The Steeles have enjoyed tremendous success during the last decade with four number one songs and numerous top five songs. The Steeles have been the recipients of many awards including a Singing News Fan Award for Album of the Year as well as several BMI awards for their songs.
Sherry Steele says, "The new label will allow us to offer a wider assortment in our product line to our friends across the country, especially as it pertains to our children as their ministry continues to grow and people express a greater interest in their music as well as the group's music." Jeff continues, "People have come to trust The Steeles to have honest, biblically based, family oriented songs that speak to the heart in a unique as well as an entertaining manner. Trust us, this will not change."
The first release on SteelesMusic is already being heard on selected radio stations across the country. It is a rewrite that Jeff did at the National Quartet Convention of the classic song which has become The Steeles signature, "We Want America Back". The rewrite (for the current situation America faces) is called, "We Want America Free". "The song is doing very, very well in it's first couple of weeks at radio," states Jeff. "It is a special thing that we did not think could or should wait on the January 1, 2002 official start date of the new company.
Distribution details for the new label as well as how radio can look for the new SteelesMusic releases will be announced soon. The Steeles request your prayers concerning this new venture which will operate under it's parent company, Steeles Evangelistic Ministries. All inquiries can be sent to SteelesMusic P.O. Box 95 Gallatin, TN 37066 or www.steelesministries.com or by calling toll free 1-877-598-6579.
Gold City Forms New Label November 15, 2001
Gold City announced today the formation of the new recording label, Gold City Music (GCM), as well as the subsequent signing of the group to the new label. The company will be part of a larger corporate parent, Gold City Music Group.
Based in Gadsden, AL, GCM will serve as the recording, production and
marketing arm for Gold City, who's latest album, "Pressed Down, Shaken
Together, Running Over," was released in September. Details concerning
distribution for the new label have yet to be announced. However, Gold
City's Tim Riley is confident in the quartet's new direction.
(courtesy of Singing News)
Alan Jackson Tribute Song To Ship To Southern Gospel Radio November 14, 2001
(Nashville) The Rick Hendrix Company and RCA Label Group will be shipping the Alan Jackson tribute song "Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)" to Southern gospel radio. "The song has literally been an overnight project," stated Hendrix. Jackson performed the song on CBS last Wednesday and stations from all genres of music immediately started programming the unmixed version. With so many patriotic songs in the market place it was really good to hear a song that talked about Jesus and love and not just standing up and saluting your country but knowing God is our only hope" said Hendrix. The single will be shipped to Southern gospel radio Tuesday Nov 13. Anyone that may have missed the performance can watch and listen at www.rickhendrix.com. (courtesy of sogospelnews.com)
The Laymen From Kathleen, Georgia- - End Of An Era November 14, 2001
In a email to subscribed members on their website at www.thelaymen.com, the Laymen from Kathleen, Georgia have disbanded; but the family ministry continues. Below is the email letter sent on November 13, 2001.
Dear Friends,
In 1967, Jim Burch and four other men from Second Baptist Church in
Warner Robins, Georgia, began a Southern Gospel quartet known as The
Laymen. Over the past 34 years, The Laymen has evolved into a family
group with Jim Burch remaining as the only original member. For the
past several years, he has been joined by his daughter Judy and her
sons Jeff and Jim. God has used the ministry of The Laymen in a
great and mighty way for the past 34 years. As we look back, we can
trace HIS hand through the facets of our ministry. I write to you--
our friends--today to let you know that this era of our lives has
come to an end. Due to circumstances within our family, The Laymen
has been officially disbanded as of November 10, 2001.
HOWEVER--the ministry continues!! Beginning Wednesday, November 14,
2001, a new group will take the stage for their first concert in
Alamo, Georgia. THE CLEGHORNS, consisting of Judy, Jeff, and Jim,
will begin a brand new Southern Gospel ministry. Our first concert
will be at the Wheeler County High School for the Little Ocmulgee EMC
annual meeting. We will be singing at 1:00 Wednesday afternoon.
We ask that you please pray for us as we begin this new venture. We
have many hills to climb as we start over in our music ministry. THE
CLEGHORNS will continue to fill all dates that were booked by The
Laymen, and will begin booking new dates immediately. You will
notice that this e-mail came from The Cleghorns. You have been
automatically subscribed to our e-mail list at Yahoo! Groups. If you
wish to unsubscribe, there are directions at the end of this e-mail.
We will be working on a new website very soon. For now, you can keep
up with our news at www.thelaymen.com. You will be notified as to
the new web address as soon as the details are worked out. We will
be planning a new recording very soon as well
Thank you so much for your support and your prayers. We are not sure
exactly where God will lead us in the days to come, but for now, we
know that we are in the center of HIS perfect will.
We love each of you and look forward to seeing you at a CLEGHORNS
concert very soon.
In HIS Grip,
Jeff Cleghorn
The Cleghorns
Warner Robins, GA
www.thelaymen.com
Jason Crabb Of Crabb Family Still Singing November 14, 2001
BEAVER DAM, KY(Press Release) - In the past few weeks many inquiries have come to our attention concerning Jason Crabb's singing career. Several weeks ago, Jason was unable join the Crabb Family for a weekend, due to a bout with bronchitis. Immediately, rumors began, stating that Jason Crabb had damaged his throat and would no longer be able to sing with his family.
In response to the questions that we have encountered, we are happy to cease the rumors and inform you that Jason Crabb is still singing stronger than ever. Jason has no permanent throat damage. He recovered from his minor illness as expected and has been back on the road ever since. He has also been in the studio with his family recording their soon-to-be released, "Greatest Hits" project and has even found time to take in a little hunting.
For those of you who feared you had seen the last of Jason Crabb, rest easy you have really only seen the beginning! Listen for more exciting music from Jason and his family in the very near future!
Hovie Lister Facing Major Health Battles November 14, 2001
(Singing News Release) Concert-goers in Georgia and Indiana recently learned, Hovie Lister of the legendary Statesmen Quartet, is once again facing major health battles. Hovie made an appearance at the Gaither Homecoming held in Atlanta on November 2nd and despite throat problems, played piano and sang a couple of songs to the delight of the audience. At this time, Hovie, the Lister family and the entire Southern Gospel Music community, are asking you to join in prayer for Hovie as he faces his biggest mountain yet.
More information will be released as it is received.
Pfeifers To Host Christmas Special On Sky Angel & Dish Network November 9, 2001
(Press Release) - Their musical styling is well defined, yet somewhat indescribable. They have shared concert stages with the most prominent names in Christian music - Their ability to combine brass instrumentation with rich vocal harmony has made them a mainstay and recognizable fixture among varying Christian music genres. While many Christian recording artists remain focused on one particular musical style, The Pfeifers have often stretched musical boundaries, providing listenerswith a broad array of listening pleasure.
Over the years The Pfeifers have remained committed to using various media forms to continually spread the message of the Gospel. Their weekly television program, The Pfeifers - Lifting Jesus, is delivered into homes across the country each week via 20 television stations, GMT (Gospel Music Television), as well as the DISH Networks' Angel One Channel and Sky Angel's Channel One.
In addition, the Sky Angel Network recently announced plans for a Christmas special featuring The Pfeifers. The Pfeifers Country Christmas will air on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and will feature this popular group performing classic, traditional Christmas favorites. Check local listings for times and availability.
Pfeifer fans are also excited about the release of the group's brand new recording, simply titled WHY NOT. WHY NOT is available at Christian bookstores or by calling 1-800-435-9641.
Mark Bishop Signs With The Harper Agency November 6, 2001
GOODLETTSVILLE, TN(Press Release) - The Harper Agency announces the signing of award-wining singer, songwriter, producer Mark Bishop to their roster. For seventeen years, Mark has been performing with his father Kenneth and his brother Kenny as The Bishops - one of Southern Gospel Music's all-time favorite trios. Upon the recent retirement of the group, Mark will continue to do what he loves best - writing and singing Gospel music.
"Mark Bishop's voice is distinct and instantly recognized by Southern Gospel music fans, " states Ed Harper, president of The Harper Agency. "Mark is also one of the most successful and prolific songwriters in our field today. We are pleased that Mark has chosen to continue performing and writing, and are honored to continue our relationship and to represent him. We are confident that this new chapter in Mark's life is going to be very successful. For several years, Mark has been fortunate to work for leading concert promoters and to sing in wonderful churches across the country. We believe that these folks will want to continue to bring the singing and songwriting ministry of Mark Bishop to Gospel music supporters and fans in their communities."
Mark Bishop states, "Even as the group disbanded, I knew that God had a plan in my life that included music. My love for writing and performing Gospel music is still very much alive. I love this music and the people that have supported me throughout the years. As long as God allows me to, I'm pressing on. As I begin this new journey, it is so reassuring to have familiar friends working with me. Ed and Jeff Harper have been such a blessing to my family over the years and I'm so grateful to be able to continue our professional relationship."
The Harper Agency is now scheduling Mark Bishop for concert dates for 2002. For more information, contact The Harper Agency at 615-851-4500, or online at www.theharperagency.com.
McKameys Celebrate Latest Number One Song November 6, 2001
SEVIERVILLE, TN(Press Release) - Southern Gospel family the McKameys recently joined the staff of Horizon Records in celebrating their latest number one song, "I've Won." Claiming the top Southern Gospel spot for the month of November according to the Singing News Magazine, "I've Won" is the title cut from the group's 2000 release earlier this Spring.
Also on hand for the celebration was the song's writer, Sheryl Farris, who is also the sister of group member Connie Fortner. "I've Won" is the 10th number one song for the family from Clinton, TN, and is (appropriately enough) from the 10th album with Horizon Records.
The chart success comes just on the heels of McKamey's bass Ruben Bean being honored by the same publication with the Marvin Norcross Award, Southern Gospel's coveted lifetime achievement award, in September of this year.
The McKamey's current single, "He Calms Me" is also from the I've Won recording. Fans should expect a new album from the group in July of 2002.
Undivided Changes Name To The Beene Family November 6, 2001
KINGSPORT, TN(Press Release) - As Undivided celebrates their first Singing News Top 80 charting song, some major changes are underway for the group. On the heels of "I'll Take The Old Highway," the first release from "A Tribute To The Songs Of Kyla Rowland," Undivided's name has officially changed to The Beene Family.
Brothers Shandon, Brandon, and Landon Beene are excited to be a family group once again with the return of their cousin, alto Chrysta Branson. The Beene Family actually began singing several years ago on the West Coast and recently made their way to East Tennessee. Chrysta was the original alto singer for the group. After a brief personal leave of absence, she has returned. Now that the brothers feel they can truthfully carry the name The Beene Family, they have done so.
"I am excited about our name change. I think that it lets people know what we are all about. We are all family and strongly uphold family values. We want our ministry to show our audiences that we have joined to present Christ as the center of our family and the reason that we stay together. I think the name and bringing Chrysta back definitely sums that up," says Brandon Beene.
The Beene Family are in the process of completing a brand new project, "Because I Believe" featuring songs from writers such as Tim Greene, Kyla Rowland, Shannon Childress and others. Chrysta's dynamic vocals combined with the brothers' tight harmonies are a strong indication that the Beene Family can look forward to a bright future in gospel music. (For more information on the Beene Family log onto www.thebeenefamily.com).
Naomi And The Segos Announce New Tenor November 6, 2001
(Press Release) - Naomi and The Segos are pleased to announce the permanent addition of "Little" Aaron Crisler as their new tenor singer. According to Scott Spangler, baritone singer and spokesperson for the group, "After the resignation of Darrell Monroe from the group at NQC this past September, I started talking to other groups seeing if anybody knew of a tenor singer we could use as a temporary fill-in, and Libby Stuffle of the Perrys told us about Aaron. We used him that weekend and he were very impressed with his vocal ability as well as his professionalism on stage, so we kept telling him to come back the next week, so Naomi and I decided that we should just keep the little guy. I can pick on him, cause I am 6'3" tall, and Little Aaron just a little over 5 feet tall, and the funniest part of watching him try with all his might to climb up on that top bunk of our bus! Plus, his heartfelt desire to sing Southern Gospel music and his enthusiasm for ministry makes his addition a perfect fit". Aaron is 23 years old and lives in Austell, Georgia. He is a member of the Milford Church of God and is also the webmaster for the Perrys, Randy Perry Ministries, Nicole Watts Jenkins, the Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet, and the Dominion Agency's websites. His prior performing experience not only includes singing southern gospel music, but also being one of the staff performers at Dollywood as well. Spangler adds, "People have fallen in love with Little Aaron at our concerts and church services, and Naomi and I look forward to riding many miles on the Sego bus with him". The current staff of Naomi and The Segos consists of Naomi, Scott Spangler, Little Aaron, and their bus driver, Stephen Pentz.
Dianne Wilkinson Honored By Centergy Music Group November 6, 2001
NASHVILLE, TN(Press Release) - Centergy Music Group recently joined songwriter Dianne Wilkinson in celebrating her recent recognition for winning Master Composer of the Year at the Phil Cross Songwriter Showcase held during the National Quartet Convention. Dianne is known for the chart topping song He Said, recorded by Gold City, and most rceently climbing the charts God Made It, recorded by the Kingdom Heirs.
Dianne has also been nominated by the Southern Gospel Music Association for Songwriter of the Year.
Marsha Henry Honored By Centergy Music Group November 6, 2001
NASHVILLE, TN(Press Release) - Centergy Music Group recently joined songwriter Marcia Henry in celebrating her Number #1 song, Is Anything Too Hard For God. She penned this 2001 Singing News Fan Award nominated #1 single, recorded by The Whisnants.
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