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Eddie Crook Company to celebrate 25th anniversary at NQC August 29, 2002
(Press Release) - Saturday September 14th is the date for the long awaited, much anticipated once in a lifetime event at The National Quartet Convention! The reunion of The Eddie Crook Company will take place at noon on the main stage of Freedom Hall and the list of performers is a literal whos who in Southern Gospel Music!
The legendary Jerry Goff will welcome to the stage such super stars as The McKameys, Perrys, Crabb Family, Greenes, Wilburns, Palmetto State Quartet, Spencers, Michael Combs, Dixie Melody Boys and Perry Sisters! Joining this incredible line up will be the original Mid South Boys, Tony Gore, Mike Bowling, Kenny Bishop, Naomi and The Segos and The Dixie Echoes! There may even be some special surprise appearances.youll just have to be there to see it all take place!!
Several industry dignitaries will join Danny Jones of the Singing News Magazine and Dave Wilcox of the Eddie Crook Company on stage as the Southern Gospel music industry and The National Quartet Convention honor the company and the man that launched and enhanced so many successful careers.
Tickets are required and are available from the Conventions web site www.natqc.com or by calling 800-846-8499. Artists are subject to change without notice. Additional information may be garnered by calling Dave Wilcox at the ECC at 615-851-1360.
What a glorious afternoon of great singing, fellowship, fun and memories! Do not miss this great afternoon.
Doug Young joins New Speer Revival August 29, 2002
NASHVILLE, TN(Press Release) - New Speer Revival has announcedthe addition of anew member,Doug Young.Young,former bass singer for Hovie Lister and The Statesmen Quartet, will be replacing Rick Moore.
NSR's manager, Marc Speer, had this to say, "We will miss Rick's contribution to the group, but respect and approve of his decision to stay in the ministry on a full time basis with First Nazarene Church in Nashville, TN. We truly feel blessed to have someone as talented and experienced as Doug singing with us. His sound, and presence on stage will add greatly to the tradition in which we represent."
For moreinformationregarding New Speer Revival you can visit their web site at www.newspeerrevival.com.
Diana Perry Gillette home from hospital August 29, 2002
(Press Release) - Diana Perry Gillette of the Perry Sisters has spent some time in a WV-area hospital lately. Last week, it was discovered that the singer/songwriter had two blocked arteries and as a result, underwent a procedure to install three stints.
She is now home from the hospital and hopes to be back on the road within the next few days.
Roger Bennett health update August 26, 2002
Recently Legacy Five's Roger Bennett returned from the MD Anderson Clinic in Houston, TX. Debbie Bennett, Roger's wife, wrote to his email list as follows:
"It appears that Roger's CLL (leukemia) has recurred. He wanted me to tell you right off the bat that he is in good spirits, and feeling relatively well, although he does have shingles again. His doctors haven given us a preliminary outline for the course of treatments, and the doctors' plan may enable Roger to delay the chemo for 3-4 months. Please continue to pray for Roger and our entire family. We love you!"
Please remember Roger and the entire Bennett family in prayer.
Crabb Family to record with Daywind Music Group August 21, 2002
HENDERSONVILLE, TN(Press Release) - The largest and one of the most popular family groups in Southern Gospel music today, the Crabb Family recently signed an exclusive recording agreement with Daywind Music Group of Hendersonville, TN.Noted for eleven #1 songs, numerous awards and a loyal fan base, the Crabb Family stands to be a popular mainstay in the Southern Gospel market for years to come.
"The decision came after many months of prayer and conviction about our calling. We are proud of the things that God has allowed us to be a part of with our own record company. However, we were not expecting the abundance of blessings that brings about a tiring and heavy workload. God has dealt with us for months to partner with people who share our vision and allow them to help us to grow our ministry. We are very excited to focus on the music and touring and hand the record company responsibilities to our friends at Daywind. We have entrusted Daywind Publishing and New Day with several aspects of our ministry for the past three years. The addition of the Daywind Records family to our family is the completion of the "team" that we know is necessary for what lies ahead. Our entire family is thrilled to call Daywind our new recording home," stated the Crabb Family.
The family features six tremendous vocalists, backed by an exceptional six-piece live band to create an unmistakable blend of family and traditional harmonies that continue to capture audiences around the world.A Crabb Family production also includes a special multi-media presentation, which highlights pictures, videos and moments in the Crabb Family's ministry and history.
President of Daywind Music Group, Ed Leonard added, "Daywind Records ishonored to continue our close relationship with the Crabb Family. We will support their wonderful ministry with our marketing and distribution resources to reach more people with Christ's message."
The Crabb Family has teamed with Premier/Showcase Productions, the Singing News Magazine and World Vision to present a 10+ city Christmas Tour entitled, "A Crabb Family Christmas featuring the Crabb Family."They are currently booked by the Beckie Simmons Agency and touring nationwide.
Plans are underway for a brand new project, which will be distributed through Word Entertainment and New Day Christian Distributors.For more information on the Crabb Family, visit www.thecrabbfamily.com.
Mike Bowling signs with Daywind Music Group August 21, 2002
HENDERSONVILLE, TN(Press Release) - Daywind Music Group is pleased to announce that Mike Bowling has signed an exclusive recording agreement with the Hendersonville, TN based company.
Ed Leonard, President of Daywind Records stated, "Mike Bowling has been a member of the Daywind Family for many years through his prior ministerial endeavors. He has established himself as a prominent soloist in Southern Gospel music. We areexcited to be working with him again as he builds his ministry."
"I have known the people at Daywind for years, so this feels like a homecoming. Only God knows the future of my ministry, but I am confident I am where He wants me to be," added Mike.
Having traveled with the Perrys and the New Hinsons, Mike now performs as a soloist and has already garnered several charting radio singles including "Another Valley Left Behind," "Somebody Did Some Praying For Me," "Goodbye To Mercy" and the number one hits, "Thank God For The Preacher" and "The Call."With a sound that has won fans across the country, Mike is currently nominated for Soloist of the Year at the 2002 Singing News Fan Awards to be held in Louisville, KY at the National Quartet Convention in September.
Plans are underway for a new album, which is expected to be released next year and distributed by Word Entertainment and New Day Christian Distributors.
For more information on Mike Bowling, visit www.thecrabbfamily.com.
Nicole-Watts Jenkins signs with Potter Agency August 21, 2002
GOODLETTSVILLE, TN(Press Release) - April Potter-Holleman announces the recent signing of Nicole Watts-Jenkins to the April Potter Agency.
Nicole, known for her 6 plus years with the Perrys as soprano, comes from a rich heritage in Southern Gospel Music. She traveled with her dad and sang with the Seeker's of Columbus, GA before joining The Perrys in December of 1993. Nicole is a five time Singing News Fan Award Soprano Nominee. She is also known for singing The Perrys number one songs, "Praise God It's Settled I'm Saved" and "Not Even a Stone." She has appeared on INSP Network, Odyssey Network and numerous camp meetings, as well as women's conferences all across the US.
April Potter-Holleman states, "I am thrilled to have Nicole join our team. She has a tremendous voice and a heart for reaching the lost and uplifting believers. I am excited about the future and what God has in store for this ministry."
Nicole's current single "Run and Tell" is rapidly climbing the Southern Gospel charts. Be looking for her new radio release in September.
Nicole joins such artists as The Mark Trammell Trio, Won By One and Denise Davis at the April Potter Agency.
For scheduling Nicole, contact April Potter Agency, 615-851-9072 or visit our website at www.aprilpotteragency.com.
Ernie Haase to form new quartet August 16, 2002
In his newsletter sent out this week, Ernie Haase announced he has decided to team up with former Gold City piano player Garry Jones to from a new traditional quartet. Ernie says he will be doing an interview with Paul Heil on the 'Gospel Greats' the end of Augutst and will be telling more of their intentions. Right now group members a name are being picked. Ernie stated he would like to see the group picked by the first of October and on the road by next March.
Chuck Wagon Gang signs with Harper Agency August 16, 2002
 (Press Release) - A 70-year tradition continues as renowned recording artist, The Chuck Wagon Gang, recently reached a new scheduling agreement with one of Gospel Music's leading booking agencies, The Harper Agency. "Over the years, we have enjoyed a wonderful relationship with The Chuck Wagon Gang," Ed Harper, President of The Harper Agency, explains. "We are very excited to be representing this new generation of The Chuck Wagon Gang."
Following the death of long time member Roy Carter in the late summer of 1997, the The Chuck Wagon Gang retired from the road in the fall 1997. But in early 1999, Darrell Morris, who had played guitar with the group for three years prior to their retirement, reorganized the group with the assistance Shaye Truax, granddaughter of the Gang's original alto singer Anna Davis. Like Darrell, Shaye too had served as a member of the group prior to their retirement. Darrell and Shaye enlisted the assistance of Rick Karnes, son of Rose Karnes, who was the original soprano for the group, as well as Groveton, TX, native Melissa Cavness to complete the group, and the end result is a sound that bears an uncanny resemblance to the sound of the original group. "Personally, I think this present-day Gang is closer to the sound of the original group than perhaps any other combination of past members," Shaye states. Obviously, others feel the same, as well. "The Chuck Wagon Gang was recently at my event, the 34th Annual Brumley Gospel Sing in Fayetteville, AR," long-time concert promoter Bob Brumley commented recently. "I was thrilled to hear the same original Chuck Wagon Gang sound from the years past that we've all known and loved. If one was to close their eyes, you wouldn't be able to tell the difference. It was great! Judging by the crowd's reaction and the record table sales, I would say the people felt the same way too. We'll be hearing a lot more from this new Chuck Wagon Gang."
In March of this year, the Gang released their very first recording in six years, entitled "Gathered Together." This fall they will also be going into the studio to work on another new recording project.
Since their reorganization in 1999, the group has been traveling on a part-time basis; however, recently they have made the transition into a full-time traveling schedule. Still based in Ft Worth, TX, the group plans to travel between 120 and 150 dates during 2003. "Obviously, there are many promoters who scheduled The Chuck Wagon Gang on a regular basis prior to their retirement, and no doubt, we'll continue to work with a lot of those promoters," Harper relates. "But additionally, there are quite a number of other promoters who sponsor bluegrass Gospel events and festivals each year, and we know those promoters will want to schedule them, as well. We're very excited to be associated with the rich tradition of The Chuck Wagon Gang. Their musical heritage is unprecedented, yet Darrell, Shaye, Melissa and Rick have a deep desire to share the message of the Gospel, and we believe they are going to have a very effective ministry, while continuing the tradition that was established by the Carter family over seven decades ago."
To obtain scheduling information about The Chuck Wagon Gang contact The Harper Agency at 615-851-4500 or online at www.harperagency.com. You may also check out The Chuck Wagon Gang website as well at www.thechuckwagongang.com .
Naomi & The Segos request prayer August 16, 2002
(Press Release) - Naomi and the Segos are requesting that you remember their families in prayer over the next few days. Naomi's grandson, Jonathan Sego is in a Longview, TX hospital after having to have emergency appendectomy surgery. Jonathan is the youngest child of the late Ronnie Sego. He came through the surgery fine and is doing well, according to group baritone singer and spokesperson, Scott Spangler.
The group is also requesting prayer for Mattie Russell, grandmother of scott's daughter, Stephanie Spangler. It has been learned that she has a large hole in her aorta, the major artery carrying blood to the heart. The hole is of such size that half of her blood supply is flowing into her heart, and half is going into her lungs. Open heart surgery is being planned for this coming Tuesday, August 20th in Kingsport, TN. According to Spangler, due to other health issues she has, it is making the open heart surgery more serious than normal.
Naomi, Scott and new tenor singer, Kasey Kemp, are requesting people remember both Jonathan and Mattie in your prayers. Get well wishes to Jonathan can be e-mailed to: naomi@naomiandthesegos.com or mailed to PO Box 269, Centerville, GA 31028
Melody Masters Quartet retires August 16, 2002
(Press Release) - Scott Whitener and Cyle Cornish have announced that the Melody Masters Quartet has retired from gospel music for personal reasons. The groups final performance took place in Gaffney, SC on May 26. The Melody Masters began in Tampa, FL in 1946 and has included such notable members as Jake Hess, Big Chief Wetherington, Wally Varner, Mosie Lister, and Cat Freeman. Whitener and Cornish will pursue other interests while outstanding young tenor Eric Phillips has joined the newly formed Mark Trammell trio. Correspondence may be sent to P.O. Box 25, Bessemer City, NC 28016
Saturday to be Hovie Lister Day in Greenville August 12, 2002
 (GREENVILLE, SC(Press Release) - Greenville Mayor Knox White in a special ceremony today issued a proclamation proclaiming Saturday August 17, 2002 Hovie Lister Day in Greenville. The Greenville native was born September 17th, 1926 and spent his youthful years here. He moved to Atlanta, Ga., and in 1948 formed the popular Statesmen Quartet.
Lister died December 28th at this home in Atlanta, Ga. after a long battle with lymphoma. A special tribute will be presented on Saturday night for the late gospel music legend.
This announcement comes in the midst of the 15th Annual Grand Ole Gospel Reunion being held in Greenville this week. Events get underway on Thursday 6:00 PM August 15th with a dinner, concert and a movie in the Hyatt Ballroom. Friday and Saturday will feature concerts at 7:00 PM & 6:00 PM respectively at the Peace Center for the Performing Arts.
For additional information call 864-288-5251 or to order tickets 1-800-888-7768.
Phill Cross announces retirement of Poet Voices August 9, 2002
According to Singing News Magazine Phil Cross announced this week that the quartet known as Poet Voices will be retiring from the road following a Sunday, November 24, concert in Pensacola, FL (Marcus Point Baptist Church).
Phil states, "As some people may already know, Dale Brock has long been a key element in the success of this quartet. Not only has he served us as a tenor vocalist, but he has been my right-hand man in the management of this quartet. Recently, Dale tenured his resignation for very legitimate personal reasons, all of which I fully support.
"In light of this resignation, I have prayerfully considered all that is involved in continuing the mission that Poet Voices started over 11 years ago. I simply do not feel comfortable in assuming all the responsibilities involved in keeping a quartet on the road so, at this time, I want to announce that Poet Voices is retiring effective November 24th."
For the remainder of their touring, Phil will be spending his time assisting fellow members of Poet Voices in securing other positions within Southern Gospel Music, as well as preparing for what doors God may open for him in the future. Phil, himself, plans to continue in Southern Gospel Music as a songwriter, publisher, producer and artist.
Crabb Family performs at Dottie Rambo Tribute August 9, 2002
(Press Release) - The Crabb Family recently performed at the taping of the "Total Living Network's" Tribute to Dottie Rambo held at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee.
The family shared the Opry stage with legends like Crystal Gayle, Larry Gatlin and Barbara Mandrell. Mandrell referred to The Crabb Family as the new breed of family Christian music today.
The Crabb Family showcased Rambo's classics "New Shoes" and "Tears Will Never Stain the Streets of That City". The night ended with a finale with all artists on stage singing "I Go To The Rock".
The Total Living Network is part of the GE Americom Cable 2 satellite neighborhood with expanded distribution via three channels on GE1-Transponder 15. TLN has the ability to distribute innovative Christian programming on this satellite system designed to reach up to ninety percent of America's household cable subscribers.
Crabb Family announces Christmas Tour August 7, 2002
BEAVER DAM, Ky. - August, 2002 - The Crabb Family joins Premier/ Showcase Productions, The Singing News Magazine and World Vision to announce a 10-plus city Christmas Tour called, "A Crabb Family Christmas featuring The Crabb Family". The Family Music Group recording artists are riding a wave of popularity into the Holiday Season and will kick off the tour in Jackson, TN, on the Friday after Thanksgiving.
Premier/Showcase Productions, the promotions team behind the Cathedrals Farewell Tour and the Happy Goodmans Final Stand Tour, is working with Beckie Simmons and the Beckie Simmons Agency to finalize the markets and venues. "Christmas is a special but busy season for all of us," Andy Jackson, of Premier/Showcase states. "The Crabb Family is really forging into exciting new territory as a single Southern Gospel artist on a Christmas tour, but they have so much to offer an audience. We encourage the fans anywhere near these cities to carve some time in their hectic holiday schedules for their families and friends to attend."
On the Christmas tour, The Crabb Family and Mike Bowling will be featuring songs from their Christmas project entitled, The Locket. Additionally, they are currently recording some Christmas standards with that special "Crabb" touch for the tour. Fans can also expect special lighting, video, and stage sets to help celebrate the spirit of Christmas. A triumphant punctuation to the Christmas tour will be an evangelistic New Year's Eve celebration concert at the Louisville Memorial Auditorium in Louisville, KY.
The Crabb Family is currently touring in support of their latest release, A Crabb Collection, from their own Family Music Group record label. This project has produced yet another number one radio hit on the Singing News charts with "Don't You Wanna Go".
For artist and tour information, visit www.thecrabbfamily.com .
A note from Kenny Bishop August 7, 2002
(Press Release)
Dear Friends,
To be able to repay the kindness and encouragement that my family and I have received these last several months would drain any average person dry of their resources. Debra, our children and I have been loved, supported and comforted by the notes, email and calls we have received from so many friends. Let us simply say thank you with the deepest gratitude.
Even though I have been off the road and out of most of the public's view, I have not been quiet or still these last several months. I have been very busy working on several projects. Most folks know of my involvement with governmental work and elective campaigning. Even when I was traveling full-time, I was very involved with the election processes and the campaigns of several local and regional candidates for public office. I enjoyed the work as a hobby and a contribution to our community. I have used that experience and many of the contacts I have made in the political arena to form a public relations firm that works mostly in the local and regional campaigning/candidate/party field. I am currently working as publicist with three candidates who are running for office. All three are expected to win their races and serve. I am also working with a local party to create an aggressive get-out-the-vote advertising and publicity campaign. So far, the results are very encouraging. Part of my services are to offer consulting to candidates as well. I will be making an announcement soon on the expansion of these services.
Maranatha!
Kenny
Mid-South Quartet singing again August 7, 2002
(Press Release) - In 1971, the Mid-South Quartet hired 17 year old Roger Siratt to sing lead vocal for them. At that time the group consisted of tenor, Monty Frye (deceased); baritone and pianist, Larry Rudkin (deceased); and bass, Morris Nichols. Roger became part owner two years later and remained with the group for approximately ten years.
In November 1998 Robbie McGee sold the Mid-South name and all the subsidiary names back to Roger Siratt for an undisclosed amount. Dr Roger Siratt, now senior pastor of Texarkana Christian Center Family Church in Texarkana, Texas, has brought together another great group of singers that maintain the Mid-South Boys sound.
The new Mid-South Boys members are owner/lead vocalist, Dr Roger Siratt; tenor, Bill Stone; baritone/pianist, Richard Potts; and bass, Dennis Bolden.
Roger sang a short time with the Sound, the original Mid-South Boys, Blackwood Quartet, and Reunion. Bill sang with Ambassadors and Reunion. Richard sang with Kings Connection and Reunion. Dennis sang with Majestic, Sound, the original Mid-South Boys, and Reunion. With many years of experience you are in for a treat.
A new music CD is now in the works so be watching for the dynamic original Mid-South Boys.
To Book Mid-South Boys, contact:
MSB
200 Redwater Road
Texarkana, TX 75501
Office: 903-832-5304
E-mail: Rogmmi@aol.com
A webpage will soon be up at: www.midsouthboys.org
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