2006

Anthony Burger Service To Be Aired Live On Christ Church Website

Nashville, TN - On Wednesday, March 1, a service, honoring the life of multi-award winning pianist Anthony Burger, will be held at Christ Church in Nashville, TN. According to Christ Church representatives, the service, which begins at 1:00pm, will be aired live via streaming video on the Christ Church website, http://www.christchurchnashville.com . The legendary pianist died suddenly on Wednesday, February 22, while performing onboard the Bill Gaither Homecoming Carribean cruise.

The Cerces Receive Christian Music Presenters Endorsement

SPRINGFIELD, Missouri – The Cerces, one of the Midwest’s most popular family groups, just recently received endorsement for the group’s ministry from Christian Music Presenters (CMP) of Nashville, TN. CMP evaluates and endorses Christian artists, as they link groups and artists with pastors and presenters throughout the United States.

CMP was founded last year by Dr. Randall Bayne and Rev. Roy Hayes – both ordained ministers – each with more than 20 years of professional music experience. The organization endorses groups and artists in over 20 recognized Christian musical styles.

Groups and artists begin the process by presenting CMP with churches, pastors and concert promoters they have recently performed for, so that extensive questionnaires can be filled out by them, serving as references for the artists. Information is supplied by the artists so they can be evaluated as to the denominations and church groups that the artists are equipped and prepared to effectively minister to, as well as involved information as to the artists' travel patterns, repertoire, financial requirements and other matters.

Based on the evaluation of this preliminary information, some of the artists are invited to a private meeting with CMP evaluators, who travel to major U.S. cities to get to know them, and to interview them in depth. Then, the groups and artists perform a private 30 minute concert for the evaluators as part of the evaluation process.

Performers are ultimately evaluated in regard to CMP's three ministry values and criteria - Musical Excellence, Ministry Readiness, and Spiritual Integrity. To date, about 160 Christian artists/groups have been endorsed by CMP, including Harlan Burton, The Pfeifers, and Young Harmony.

Cliff Cerce, group manager, said, "We are thrilled to be associated with this wonderful organization. We all connected with Dr. Bayne and Rev. Hayes immediately and were impressed with their desire to help artists and presenters alike through their organization. We look forward to a long and profitable association with CMP in the days ahead."

Information on The Cerces' ministry will be added to the CMP website in the coming days. CMP offers free access to pastors and presenters with information regarding their endorsed artists at http://www.christianmusicpresenters.com.

The Cerces just put the finishing touches on their new project, Treasures - Old and New, last month. The new recording contains 14 songs – seven classic Southern Gospel songs, as well as seven original songs.

The Cerces were recently the recipients of the 2005 Horizon Group of the Year award, presented by the Branson Gospel Singers Songwriters Association (BGSSA). The awards, which are determined by voting among Association members, were presented by the BGSSA at their annual awards ceremony on Sunday night, September 25, 2005 at the beautiful Chateau on the Lake resort in Branson, Missouri.

Be listening for the group’s current single, “O Happy Day,” on Southern Gospel radio across the country.

For more information on The Cerces, please visit http://thecerces.com.

About The Cerces
The Cerces are based out of Springfield, Missouri. The group is composed of Cliff Cerce, his wife Anita, and newest member Andy Fauth. They will travel 50,000 to 60,000 miles a year all over the United States. Their first single, “Oh Happy Day” is currently going for adds all across the country.

Dottie Rambo Inducted into Kentucky Music Hall Of Fame

Lexington, KY-Legendary singer/songwriter Dottie Rambo was inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall Of Fame on February 23 in Lexington, KY. Lily Tomlin presented Rambo with her Hall Of Fame induction calling her the "alto to the altar". Les Butler of Solid Gospel was also on hand to speak of Southern Gospel music's Kentucky heritage and other Southern Gospel notables in attendance included Kenny Bishop and Gerald Crabb.

For more news and information concerning Dottie Rambo please visit http://www.dottierambo.net
For more news and information concerning the Kentucky Music Hall Of Fame please visit http://www.kentuckymusicmuseuem.com

Palmetto State Quartet Release New Recording Gospel Quartet Favorites

The latest recording efforts of Palmetto State Quartet have fashioned a long awaited recording featuring some of the groups all time favorite Gospel Quartet songs. Thus, the title of the recording is Gospel Quartet Favorites, and it was recorded in the manner of those quartet's that we all grew up listening to, utilizing a select few instruments, and focusing on vocal arrangements which showcase the talents of each individual singer. This recording is all about the songs, and you can tell by the enthusiasm with which they are performed that they are indeed some of the groups favorite's of all time.

From the soul stirring renditions of "Unworthy," "Who Am I?" and "How Great Thou Art" to the joyous up-tempo renderings of "I Know My Lord's Gonna Lead Me Out" and "Just A Little While" this recording is packed with four part quartet singing like has not been heard in quite some time. Eleven songs in all are featured on Gospel Quartet Favorites including a recitation (A Good Day's Fishin') written and performed by the groups twenty four year old bass singer, Aaron "Tex" McCune.

If you love good, solid, Gospel Quartet singing then you're gonna love this recording! For more information about Palmetto State Quartet, a complete list of their recordings, appearances, and information on how to order "Gospel Quartet Favorites" visit http://www.palmettostatequartet.com

"Gospel Quartet Favorites" is not available in stores, order your copy online today, or call 615-469-0462 to order by phone.

For booking information contact the Beckie Simmons Agency at http://www.bsworld.com or 615-595-7500.

Anthony Burger Remembered

Nashville, TN - Multi-award winning pianist Anthony Burger died suddenly on Wednesday evening, February 22 aboard a Caribbean cruise, as it sailed in the Atlantic Ocean. According to the official medical examiner’s report, Burger’s heart simply burst. Burger was on board the ms Zuiderdam with Bill & Gloria Gaither, many of his Homecoming friends and more1500 passengers, doing exactly what he loved best, playing the piano. Burger was 44 years old.

Gallant Funeral Home in Fayetteville, TN, is coordinating funeral arrangements. The family will receive friends at Christ Church in Nashville, TN, on Tuesday, February 28 from 6:00pm until 9:00pm, as well as on Wednesday, March 1 from 10:00am until 12:00 noon. A special celebration of the life Burger lived will be held at 1:00pm, also on Wednesday at Christ Church. The family will also receive friends in Cleveland, TN, at the Clingan Ridge Baptist Church on Thursday, March 2 from 5:00pm until 9:00pm, as well as on Friday, March 3 from 12:00 noon until 2:00pm. Funeral services will immediatly follow the visitation. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Gospel Music Trust Fund/Anthony Burger, PO Box 144, Goodlettsville, TN 37070 or visit http://www.gospelmusictrustfund.org.

Survivors include his wife, LuAnn; sons, AJ and Austin; daughter, Lori; parents, Richard and Jean; two brothers, Randy and Clinton. There are family members who were directly related to Burger; however, he also leaves behind many “family” members who have grown to love him, in and through Gospel music. These are his musical family, whom will greatly miss his quiet demeanor, his patient personality and his genuine love for them and the music he was blessed to play for practically his entire life.

Burger was born June 5, 1961, in Cleveland, TN, to Richard and Jean Burger. Burger was just five years old when he became the first student ever to be accepted by the Chattanooga Cadek Conservatory. Playing the piano was more than just a job for Anthony Burger. It was a way of life, as well as a blessing, privilege and a direct gift from God.

When Burger was just eight months old, as he was learning to walk in a walker, one of the wheels of the walker got caught on the furnace grate and the walker turned over, throwing him down on the heater. He sustained third degree burns throughout his legs, face and hands. He had to be carried on a pillow for an entire year, during which time he received three medicated baths a day for the burns. Doctors who treated Burger said he would never be able to move his hands; however, as he stated night after night, “Doctors were wrong!” Not only did God heal his burns, He gave Burger a tremendous gift that was used night after night to glorify the Healer he loved so dearly.

Burger possessed natural God-given talent; however, he also possessed tremendous drive. He practiced day after day, and throughout the years continued to perfect his God-given ability. At the Cadek Conservatory, Burger was exposed to many musical forms, yet Gospel music was his favorite. He dedicated his life to Christ at the age of nine, and served Him each day, bringing glory to his Savior with each song he performed.

As a young teenager, barely 16, he joined one of Gospel music’s most popular quartets, The Kingsmen, and by the age of 17 was nominated as one of the Top Five pianists in Gospel music. In fact, he earned that Award by subscribers of The Singing News Magazine for 10 consecutive years, from 1980 through 1989, before the Award became known as the Anthony Burger Award.

Countless awards, accolades and honors have flowed his way in bunches throughout the past 25 years, in which he devoted his life to Gospel Music. He has traveled nationally and internationally, sharing his unique musical gift in small country churches, sold-out arenas and concert halls night after night. He was thrilled to perform at the White House , as well as several Billy Graham Crusades. Shortly after leaving The Kingsmen and embarking on his own solo career, he began traveling with Gospel music’s legendary Bill Gaither, serving as pianist for the Gaither Vocal Band, the Gaither Trio and the Gaither Homecoming Friends. Most recently, this year Burger was endorsed by Steinway Pianos.

Gospel music was, indeed, a way of life for Burger, but perhaps it could be said that it was more than a way of life - it truly WAS his life. He traveled quite possibly as much or more than any other Gospel musician. His performances exceeded 250 each year, and he loved every moment on the road, on stage, sitting at the piano.

His life could easily be summed up with a quote that Burger himself once stated, “I am a simple man, with a majestic instrument and the power of God behind me.” That’s the life he lived. That’s the life he loved, and that’s the legacy he leaves.

Funeral Arrangements for Anthony Burger (UPDATED)

Viewings:
Tuesday, February 28, 2006 - 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Wednesday, March 1, 2006 - 10:00 am - 12 Noon
Christ Church, Nashville, TN

Funeral:
Wednesday, March 1, 2006 - 1:00 pm
Christ Church, Nashville, TN

Gallant Funeral Home in Fayetteville, TN, is coordinating funeral arrangements.

The family will also receive friends in Cleveland, TN, at the Clingan Ridge Baptist Church on Thursday, March 2 from 5:00pm until 9:00pm, as well as on Friday, March 3 from 12:00 noon until 2:00pm. Funeral services will immediately follow the visitation.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Gospel Music Trust Fund/Anthony Burger, PO Box 144, Goodlettsville, TN 37070 or visit http://www.gospelmusictrustfund.org

Salem’s Southern Gospel Programming Now Available Online

NASHVILLE, Tenn., February 23, 2006 -- Salem Music Network?s Solid Gospel 105FM Nashville, flagship station for the Solid Gospel Network, is pleased to announce live, 24-hour streaming of its music programming. Music programming is available online at http://www.solidgospel105.com .

This makes listening to the flagship station programming of Solid Gospel Network possible from virtually any computer. Those tuning in will enjoy the inspirational sounds of Bill Gaither, the bluegrass harmonies of the Isaacs, the hand-clapping quartet music of Gold City, the country sounds of the Crabb Family and more. It?s an uplifting blend of favorite classic and modern southern gospel music. Listeners may also tune in for the popular Gaither Homecoming Magazine radio show each Saturday and Sunday at 1pm eastern. It?s all available online at http://www.solidgospel105.com. Commenting on this new feature, Michael Miller, General Manager of Salem Music Network, said, ?This is our response to the frequent requests from our listeners. We are pleased to be able to offer this free streaming service to our ever-growing audience. With more and more listening entertainment options charging for the privilege to listen, we are happy to make southern gospel music free and accessible to everyone?.

Solid Gospel 105FM and the Solid Gospel Network are operated by the Nashville-based Salem Music Network whose programming reaches more than 2 million weekly listeners nationwide. Along with these entities, Salem Music Network also operates two other nationally-syndicated music networks including Today's Christian Music(TM) and The Word in Praise(TM), plus Nashville radio station 94FM the Fish ?.

Salem Music Network is a unit of Salem Communications Corporation (Nasdaq:salm), headquartered in Camarillo, Ca, the leading U.S. radio broadcaster, internet content provider and magazine publisher focused on Christian and family themes. In addition to its radio properties, Salem owns Salem Radio Network(R), which syndicates talk, news and music programming to approximately 1,900 affiliates; Salem RadioRrepresentatives(TM), a national radio advertising sales force; Salem Web Network(TM), a leading internet provider of Christian content and online streaming; and Salem Publishing(TM), a leading publisher of Christian-themed magazines. Upon the close of all announced transactions, the company will own 104 radio stations, including 66 stations in 24 of the top 25 markets. Additional information about Salem may be accessed at the company's website, http://www.salem.cc.

Daywind Music Group Nominated For Thirty-One SGN Music Awards

HENDERSONVILLE, Tenn.— Several members from the Daywind Music Group family have been honored with nominations for the Southern Gospel News (SGN) Music Awards.

Nominations include Song of the Year (“Long As I Got King Jesus,” Brian Free & Assurance; “There Is A Remedy,” McRaes); Album of the Year (It’s Over…. Let Eternity Begin, The Hoskins Family; Perfect Love, McRaes; Triumphant Quartet, Triumphant Quartet); Pacesetter (Crabb Jam Tour 2005); Female Vocalist of the Year (Annie McRae); Male Vocalist of the Year (Anthony Facello); Male Group of the Year (Triumphant Quartet); Female Group of the Year (McRaes); Mixed Group of the Year (The Perrys, The Hoskins Family and The Crabb Family); Producer of the Year (Mike Bowling); Songwriter of the Year (Annie McRae and Rodney Griffin); Traditional Southern Gospel Song (“Paid In Full (Through Jesus, Amen)”); Traditional Southern Gospel Album (Triumphant Quartet, Triumphant Quartet); Progressive Southern Gospel Song (“There Is A Remedy,” McRaes); Progressive Southern Gospel Album (It’s Over….Let Eternity Begin, The Hoskins Family); Country/Bluegrass Song of the Year (“Good Day,” The Crabb Family; “Low and Down,” McRaes; “Solid Rock and Shifting Sand,” Mike Bowling); Country/Bluegrass Album of the Year (Perfect Love, McRaes); Best Live Performer (The Crabb Family); Special Event Project (Remembering The Happy Goodmans, The Perrys; Live At Brooklyn Tabernacle, The Crabb Family); Musician of the Year (Justin Ellis, The Crabb Family); Radio Promoter of the Year (Rhonda Thompson) and Fan Favorite (Brian Free & Assurance and The Crabb Family).

Winners will be announced at the 2006 SGN Music Awards Celebration on Tuesday, April 25, 2006 at River of Life Assembly of God in Smyrna, Tennessee. To vote for your favorite artists, log on to http://www.sogospelnews.com

For further information regarding Daywind Music Group, visit http://www.daywindrecords.com

Anthony Burger Tragically Dies of Heart Attack (UPDATED)

SGN just learned that Anthony Burger has tragically died from a heart attack.

Anthony Burger died suddenly on Wednesday evening, February 22. He was 44 years old.

Burger suffered an apparent massive heart attack while in the Caribbean on the Bill Gaither Homecoming Cruise. A family spokesman said Burger was doing what he loved best, playing the piano, just before collapsing.

He is survived by his wife, LuAnn; two sons, AJ and Austin; a daughter, Lori; his mother and father, Richard and Jean Burger; two brothers, Randy and Clinton Burger, and countless friends and loved ones.

The Burger family is in the process of making arrangements at this time and appreciate the prayers of everyone. Additional information will be released when it becomes available.

Please remember the Burger family at this tragic time.

Johnny Minick’s Sweetest Song I Know Nominated for Two SGN Music Awards

SMYRNA, Tenn. – Johnny Minick, one of Southern Gospel’s most beloved voices, has recently been nominated for two SGN Music Awards.

The popular soloist has been nominated in the categories of Special Event Project of the Year and Best Album Cover for his solo project – Sweetest Song I Know: A Tribute to the Happy Goodmans.

“This project really showed off Johnny’s love for a group that he traveled with for so many years,” mentioned Deon Unthank of SouthernGospelNews.com. “This was easily one of the strongest projects of last year.”

The nominees for the SGN Music Awards were chosen by the staff of SouthernGospelNews.com, with the exception of Fan Favorite Artist of the Year in which the fans chose the 10 nominees in that category. Voting for the award winners began on February 8, 2006 and will continue through February 28, 2006.

Winners of the awards will be announced at the 2006 SGN Music Awards Celebration on April 25, 2006 in Smyrna, Tennessee. Performers, hosts, sponsors, and the venue for the awards celebration will be announced at a later date.

More information on Johnny Minick can be found at http://johnnyminick.com.

About Johnny Minick
Johnny Minick has had a bright career in Gospel music. He’s traveled for over thirty years singing, preaching, and playing the piano, but was most notably known for singing with The Happy Goodmans for many years. He is currently the pastor of River of Life Assembly of God in Smyrna, Tennessee.

Rick Alan King Signs with Page2 Management

Page2 Management proudly announces representation of Gospel Artist, Rick Alan King. With his unique and beautiful voice, Rick pursues a calling few have been fortunate enough to receive.

Beginning his musical journey in his early childhood in Indiana, Rick started singing professionally at the age of twelve, and has shared the stage with many leading artists. In 1998, Rick embarked on a solo career after years of singing with various trios and other vocal groups. Prepared to share as a psalmist, offering a variety of songs, moods, and worship, his purpose is to extend the feeling that he carries in his calling.

Now, releasing “Foundations”, a collection that will pierce and penetrate your soul with the power of the Word we sing, Rick Alan King extends his hand to you.

Open your doors and your heart to the ministry of Rick Alan King as he follows his calling and destiny with “A Song from the Heart.” To learn more about Rick and his ministry go to http://www.rickalanking.com .

Lauren Talley To Appear on TBN (RESCHEDULED)

THIS APPEARANCE HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED - TO BE ANNOUNCED LATER

MORRISTOWN, TN (Press Release) - Lauren Talley will be appearing on TBN's "Praise The Lord" Friday, February 17 at 9:00 PM EST.

Talley showcased material from her latest solo project, "I Live," and sophomore release, "Surrender" on the February 14 taping in Hendersonville, Tennessee. Her current southern gospel single, "More," and contemporary single "I Live" can be heard on Christian radio stations around the country. For more information about Lauren, visit http://www.talleytrio.com.

Toney Brothers Welcome New Tenor

David Robinson from Morris, AL joins the Toney Brothers as their new Tenor. He began traveling with with the group January 10th and previously sang with the Dixie Echoes.

"Traveling in close quarters often for weeks at a time a person has to be the right fit. We have found this in David’s attitudes and abilities. Although David is only 20 years old, his maturity and Christian walk is that of a man far beyond his years. We will be recording as soon as possible to capture what we feel will be some of our best work to date."

Jubilee! Talent Agency Announces Formation

Tupelo, MS - Micah Lambert is pleased to announce the formation of Jubilee! Talent Agency. With a slogan of “Representing The Future Of Southern Gospel”, the agency is geared toward artists with “a little something different”.

“We see the direction that southern gospel is headed and we want to be a part of that. A lot of the churches that I have been in touch with are evolving. They are either going toward blended services or a more modern feel. There are also artists that are adjusting to that trend as well. You have to ask yourself ‘Who is going to be supporting us in twenty years, thirty years from now’,” states Lambert.

Currently on the roster is NewDay Quartet from West Point, MS with others to be added soon. Their website is now up and running at http://www.jubileetalent.com .

Crabb Family Completes New Project

Blur The Lines To Release March 28th

Hendersonville, Tenn.-The unstoppable Crabb Family recently completed their brand new project, Blur The Lines. The release features the powerhouse vocals, which have drawn fans from around the world, on 13 mega hits. Jason, Adam, Aaron, Kelly and Terah selected songs for the project based on their favorite all time hits from southern, praise & worship, gospel, contemporary and classic hymns. The first single, "Nothing But The Blood," can be found playing on radio stations nationwide. GRAMMY winning producer, Bubba Smith alongside of the Crabb siblings produced the project, which will be available on March 28th.

Blur The Lines marks the debut project for the Crabb Family and Daywind Music Group's new imprint, Clear Cool Music. The release will be distributed by New Day Christian Distributors, Word Entertainment and WEA. Big Ten Entertainment of Hendersonville, TN manages the Crabb Family. For more information on the Crabb Family, visit http://www.thecrabbfamily.com or http://www.clearcoolmusic.com.

The Crabb Family was formed in humble surroundings, singing in a small, storefront church in rural Kentucky, and they have seen their ministry grow to take them to the largest and most prestigious stages in the United States. The Crabb Family has become one of Gospel music's greatest success stories and one of the freshest and hottest acts to hit the music industry in recent memory. Siblings Jason, Kelly, Aaron, Terah and Adam Crabb, ranging in age from 23 to 28, have been honored with numerous awards, including eight Dove Awards and three GRAMMY nominations, as well as unprecedented radio success with 16 number one songs.

Dove Brothers Quartet Receive 5 SGN Music Award Nominations

BLADENBORO, North Carolina – Dove Brothers Quartet, one of Southern Gospel’s most awarded artists, has recently been nominated for five SGN Music Awards.

The popular quartet was nominated in the categories of Album of the Year (for Anything But Ordinary…Everything But Typical), Male Group of the Year, Traditional Southern Song of the Year (for “Anything But Ordinary, Everything But Typical”), Traditional Southern Album of the Year (for Anything But Ordinary…Everything But Typical), and Fan Favorite Artist of the Year.

“The Dove Brothers Quartet had a really great year in 2005,” mentioned Deon Unthank of SouthernGospelNews.com. “They are very deserving of their nominations.”

Dove Brothers Quartet has received a total of 7 career nominations in the SGN Music Awards. The group has also received previous nominations in the categories of Pacesetter and Traditional Southern Album of the Year.

The nominees for the SGN Music Awards were chosen by the staff of SouthernGospelNews.com, with the exception of Fan Favorite Artist of the Year in which the fans chose the 10 nominees in that category. Voting for the award winners began on February 8, 2006 and will continue through February 28, 2006.

Winners of the awards will be announced at the 2006 SGN Music Awards Celebration on April 25, 2006 in Smyrna, Tennessee. Performers, hosts, sponsors, and the venue for the awards celebration will be announced at a later date.

More information on the Dove Brothers Quartet can be found at http://dovebrothersquartet.com

About Dove Brothers Quartet
Voted Favorite Male Quartet of The Year by the Southern Gospel Music Association and the Singing News Fan Awards, the Dove Brothers Quartet’s high energy presentation and progressive arrangements reflect a tangible link to the good old days of gospel music. Their peers regard them as a class act representing the industry with dignity and respect. Their latest recording for Sonlite records is entitled Anything But Ordinary…Everything But Typical.

Hope’s Call Joins Compassion International

Nashville, TN – Zane King, of Compassion International, announced today that Hope’s Call of Murfreesboro, TN has entered into an agreement with Compassion International. Compassion International is a Christian relief organization that focuses on lifting children out of poverty in Jesus’ name. Hope’s Call is a family music ministry that has been traveling full time for several years throughout the United States and Canada. They are best known for their song, “You Are Loved” that reached the Top 10 in several Christian music charts. Their most recent single, “Singing Heaven’s Song” is topping industry charts nationwide as well.

Donna Beauvais with Hope’s Call shares, "At the beginning of the year we began praying that God would stretch our boundaries of outreach and allow us to see beyond our borders. He answered by introducing us to Compassion. The first and foremost focus of Compassion is The Great Commission. They want to win souls to Jesus!! This is our heart and we are thrilled to partner with them in the effort!"

Zane King states, “Hope’s Call has captured the hearts of their audiences with authentic ministry and solid musical performances for many years. I am thrilled they have joined our Compassion team at the very beginning of our efforts within the industry of Southern Gospel.” “Hope’s Call will no doubt become a welcomed addition to the outstanding roster of artists that currently represent Compassion”, adds King.

To learn more about Compassion International please use http://www.compassion.com .

Rick Hendrix Nominated for SGN Music Award

Nashville, TN- Rick Hendrix of the Rick Hendrix Company was honored recently with a Southern Gospel News Award nomination for radio promoter of the year.

"I was really honored to be recognized by my peers for something I love to do," stated Hendrix.

Rick Hendrix has promoted over 2000 Southern Gospel songs over the past decade. Hendrix promoted the first hit singles for artist like The Martins and Crabb Family. Rick Hendrix Company has helped over 300 artist break their first Top 80 records and scored 64 # 1 songs, with the latest being Ernie Haase and Signature Sound's "Do You Wanna Be Forgiven"

"I have always loved promoting. It's a calling God gave me," said Hendrix.

The Rick Hendrix Company currently handles radio promotions for The Hoppers, Crabb Family, Hoskins Family, Florida Boys, Ernie Haase and Signature Sound and many others.

The nominees for the SGN Music Awards were chosen by the DJs votes in the SouthernGospelNews.com 2006 Music Awards. Beginning on February 8, 2006, the DJs will again get a chance to vote for their favorites in this category while fans get a chance to vote on their favorites in the other categories. Voting ends on February 28, 2006. Winners of the awards will be announced at the 2006 SGN Music Awards Celebration on April 25, 2006 in Smyrna, Tennessee. For more information on Rick Hendrix visit http://www.rickhendrix.com

Paul Stearman Joins The Patriot Quartet

(Goodlettsville, TN) – The Patriot Quartet from Salvisa, Kentucky is proud to announce that Paul Stearman has joined their group as the new tenor singer.

Paul fills the slot left vacant by Jerry Shepherd who recently left the group due to health issues.

The Patriot Quartet is enjoying great success with their latest radio release entitled “There’ll Be No Disappointments” off of their “Great Day” project. The Patriot Quartet record under the MorningStar label, a division of the Eddie Crook Company.

Visit the Patriot Quartet website, or one of their upcoming concerts, and welcome Jerry to the group.

http://www.patriotquartet.com
http://www.eddiecrook.com

The Royals Welcome David Davis

Gainesville, FL (Press Release)

The Royals, of Florida are pleased to announce the addition of MSgt. David (Dave) Davis of Fort Walton Beach, FL as their new Bass vocalist. Davis is a Master Sergeant with the United States Air Force. Davis has 32 years singing experience and has shared the stage with Tops in Blue, Clint Black and many other USO artists. Davis is married to Gena and they have 3 sons. David Dingus of The Royals states, "Dave is a talent that has been hidden from the Southern Gospel stage. We are really lucky to have found him and know that he will be a blessing to all Southern Gospel fans. We look forward to a great working relationship, and welcome Dave to The Royals' family." More information on The Royals may be found at http://www.theroyals.org

EMI CMG Distribution And Gaither Music Group Extend Relationship With Long-Term Agreement

Exclusive Billy Graham Biography and Live Homecoming Projects Coming Up

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. – February 14, 2006 – EMI CMG Distribution and Gaither Music Group have agreed to extend a decade-plus relationship that has generated sales of more than 20 million albums, with a new, long-term agreement. The extension was announced today by Greg Bays, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for EMI CMG Distribution, and Barry Jennings, President of Gaither Music Group.

Under the new agreement, EMI CMG Distribution continues to hold exclusive rights for worldwide Christian and general market retail distribution of all Gaither Music Group audio and video products, including the popular Homecoming series and music from artists such as The Gaither Vocal Band, Bill & Gloria Gaither, Ernie Haas and Signature Sound, Lynda Randle, The Isaacs, Guy Penrod and more.

“EMI CMG Distribution has been honored to partner with Gaither Music Group for more than 12 years and is grateful for the confidence Bill Gaither and his team have expressed with this distribution agreement extension,” said Bill Hearn, President and CEO of EMI Christian Music Group (EMI CMG). “We look forward to the next chapter of our partnership and predict many rewarding years ahead.”

“EMI CMG has been a tremendous force behind Gaither Music, helping us propel our music into exciting new places where we may never have taken it on our own,” added Jennings. “Their commitment to our vision as a company and their long history of excellence are two great reasons we are thankful to continue this working relationship into the future.”

Together, Gaither Music Group and EMI CMG have sold more than 20 million albums and 14 million videos since the two companies aligned in 1994. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) has awarded more than 75 gold and more than 40 platinum certifications for Homecoming videos, including multi-platinum certifications for “Old Friends,” “Ryman Gospel Reunion” and “Turn Your Radio On.”

“The EMI CMG Distribution team continues to be dedicated to providing Gaither Music Group with outstanding sales and service. Looking at the new products coming out in the next few months, we have a lot to be excited about, and look forward to a long and productive relationship,” said Bays.

With the extended contract in affect immediately, EMI CMG Distribution has already begun selling several key releases, starting with the Bill and Gloria Gaither & Their Homecoming Friends - Homecoming Live in Toronto DVD and Bill and Gloria Gaither & Their Homecoming Friends - Canadian Homecoming DVD, which both released on February 7. These new DVDs mark the 10th anniversary of the Homecoming Tour and the first time the Homecoming Tour concerts have been recorded live. More than 15,000 fans, the Homecoming Tour’s largest North American crowd of 2005, were on hand for the concerts which were staged in Toronto’s Air Canada Centre. Homecoming regulars such as the Gaither Vocal Band, The Hoppers, Jeff & Sheri Easter, The Isaacs, Ernie Haase and Signature Sound, Lynda Randle, Mark Lowry and dozens more perform on the DVDs.

Then, on April 4th, Gaither Music Group and EMI CMG Distribution will release Billy Graham: God’s Ambassador, a video biography hosted by award-winning journalist Sir David Frost. The story of Billy Graham’s extraordinary life and ministry, God’s Ambassador is the only BGEA- authorized video biography of Billy Graham ever made. It features two hours of rare archival footage of Dr. Graham’s early life, ministry and worldwide evangelical efforts, as well as interview footage with President George W. Bush, former President George H.W. Bush, and NBC news anchor Brian Williams and others. The documentary also features more than one hour of bonus material, including Dr. Graham’s Portland, Oregon Crusade sermon, a message from Franklin Graham and a musical segment hosted by Bill Gaither. EMI CMG Distribution will offer extensive Christian retail support for God’s Ambassador (Twentieth Century Fox will distribute to U.S. and Canadian general market). EMI CMG’s marketing efforts will include placement on EMI CMG’s Quarterly Video Loop in 770 stores; positioning in the Gaither Permanent Display in more than 400 stores with video/audio clips as well as retailer-specific marketing efforts and catalog placements.

Gospel Music Association Announces Winners Of Regional Talent Competition Held In Nashville

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – February 14, 2005 – Aspiring songwriters and performers from across the country competed in Nashville last week for the Gospel Music Association’s GMA Academy Regional Talent Competition and Seminar with multiple artist and songwriter winners to move on to the National Finals later this year.

The “Song of 2006” for songwriters and “Artist 2006” talent competitions were held in downtown Nashville at the First Baptist Church last Friday and Saturday, along with intensive educational seminars led by music industry professionals that are/which are designed to help aspiring artists and songwriters. Each competition was broken down by genre and judged by various executives from the contemporary Christian and gospel Music industry. This same competition has produced such best-selling artists as Jars of Clay, Matthew West, BarlowGirl, Stacie Orrico and Nicole Nordeman.

GMA Academy Song of 2006 Overall Song Winner

“Wrap Me in Mercy,” by Jamie Boemer (Calera, Ala.).

GMA Academy Artist 2006 Overall Artist Winner

Isaac Simpson & DP (Cols, Ohio).

GMA Academy Song of 2006 Regional Winners

Pop-Rock/Alternative Song: “Melody Sings,” by Cody Diffee, Justin Joslin of freshsunday (Yukon, Okla.).

Gospel/Urban Song: “I Just Wanna Say,” by Justin Davis (Huntsville, Ala.).

Praise & Worship/Choral Song: “I Want to Sing,” by Carmen Stanczykiewicz (Zionsville, Ind.).

Southern Gospel Song: “I Swung the Hammer,” by Bill DiLuigi (Nashville, Tenn.),

Pop-AC/Inspirational Song: “Wrap Me in Mercy,” by Jamie Boemer (Calera, Ala.),


GMA Academy Artist of 2006 Regional Winners

Vocal: Hank Murphy (Louisville, Ga.)

Band: freshsunday (Yukon, Okla.)

Regional winners will now travel to Estes Park, Colo., to compete at the National Artist & Song Competition, held at the GMA Music in the Rockies July 30 through August 5, 2005. Visit http://www.gospelmusic.org for more details and registration information.

The GMA Academy was launched in 1995 for the purpose of educating, encouraging and supporting the growth and development of the next generation of Christian artists. At GMA Academy and GMA Music in the Rockies, aspiring songwriters and performers receive in-depth instruction from gospel music industry professionals – from practical business concerns to improving artistic skills. The regional GMA Academy hosts a talent competition for artists and songwriters. Regional winners automatically advance to the national competition at GMA Music in the Rockies in Estes Park, Colo.

Founded in 1964, the 4,000-member GMA (http://www.gospelmusic.org) is dedicated to exposing, promoting and celebrating the gospel through music. The GMA represents all styles of gospel music including contemporary pop, rock, urban gospel, praise & worship, Southern gospel, country and children’s gospel music. The GMA produces the GMA Music Awards, which recognizes achievement in all genres of gospel music and are voted on by members of the GMA. The 37th Annual GMA Music Awards will be held April 5, 2006 at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tenn.

INSP Announces Launch of 5th Season of Christian Artists Talent Search

Now Accepting Entries In All Genres and Categories of Christian Music

The grand prize winner will receive a recording contract with a national recording label.

Finalists from across the country have performed on the show – from California to New York, from Wisconsin to Florida.

CHARLOTTE – INSP – The Inspiration Network is announcing the fifth season of its popular Christian Artists Talent Search (C.A.T.S.). Now an established platform for discovering new talent, C.A.T.S. brings together 64 finalists from around the country to perform on national television with the winner receiving a national recording contract from Point of Grace Entertainment record label.

“During the first four years of C.A.T.S., we have witnessed extraordinary talent with entries from every part of the country,” said Fred Shaheen, Senior Producer. “We believe that in the fifth season, we will continue to see the best Christian talent the country has to offer, and C.A.T.S. provides them the platform to showcase their talent.”

Shaheen said that entries will be accepted from soloists and groups until April 21, 2006. Submissions from all forms of Christian music are acceptable, including: Gospel, Contemporary, Southern Gospel, Rock, and Rap/Hip Hop. To qualify, contestants must enter a CD or audiocassette with two Christian songs, two copies of a recent photo, and two copies of their biography. All entrants must be 15 years of age or older by April 21, 2006.

Finalists will compete in televised competitions that will be produced at INSP’s studios in Charlotte, NC. The fifth season of C.A.T.S. will begin airing in January 2007. Music industry professionals and celebrity judges from the Christian entertainment genre will judge the performances and select a winner from the 64 finalists.

Contestants can visit http://www.insp.com to sign up and view rules and regulations for the competition. Additional information is also available by calling 704.561.7955.

The Inspiration Networks originated, sponsored, and produced C.A.T.S., which debuted in 2003 before Fox’s “American Idol.” Season four of C.A.T.S. is currently airing during the networks’ “INSP Saturday Night!” lineup. Viewers can check their local cable television listings for more information.

David Cerullo is Executive Producer of the C.A.T.S. series. Ron Shuping is Co-Executive Producer.

The LeFevre Quartet In the Studio

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The LeFevre Quartet has recently been in the studio recording two new projects. The two projects are the first of a series of recordings known as "Requests." Volume 1 will be entitled Quartet Favorites, and Volume 2 will be Hymns.

According to lead singer David Staton, "We get a lot of requests every night from people who want to hear their favorite songs. This series of recordings will feature those requests."

The new recordings will be released under Song Garden Music Group and distributed nationally through the company. The new recordings will soon be available on the LeFevre Quartet’s webpage and at concert dates across the country.

The LeFevre Quartet already has one Song Garden release under the group’s belt – Legacy. The album was produced by Song Garden Music Group’s Nick Bruno and Robbie Hiner. Legacy was released at the National Quartet Convention in Louisville, Kentucky this past September.

The group’s current single, “Days of Elijah,” was released on the brand new Song Garden Music Group radio compilation. “I Love Him So,” the group’s first single, is still heating up the airwaves across the country.

The group is currently being booked by the Parker Agency. More information on how to book the LeFevre Quartet can be found at http://www.parkermusicgroup.net/artists/mikelefevre.htm.

More information on the LeFevre Quartet can be found at http://mikelefevrequartet.

Listeners can feel free to listen to audio clips of Legacy at http://songgardenmusicgroup.com.

About the LeFevre Quartet
The LeFevre Quartet is an exciting group with a unique but traditional southern gospel sound. Each member is a born again Christian with one purpose, to glorify the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The group’s debut recording, Legacy, is being released nationally through Song Garden Music Group.

About Song Garden Music Group
Nick Bruno and Robbie Hiner have pooled their considerable talents and decades of experience in gospel music to form a new and major recording company - Song Garden Music Group. The partnership also includes Dale Keffer, a Mennonite pastor and evangelist, and his brother Lynn and sister Marilyn. Artists currently under the Song Garden Music Group banner include the Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet, the Lesters, the LeFevre Quartet, the Rick Webb Trio, Jimmy Fortune, and Paid In Full. The label also has the development arm of Grapevine Records which is already home to half a dozen emerging artists.

Jimmy Fortune Nominated for Two SGN Music Awards

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Popular soloist and former Statler Brother tenor Jimmy Fortune was recently nominated for two SGN Music Awards. These are Jimmy’s first two nominations in the SGN Music Awards.

Fortune has been nominated in the categories of Country/Bluegrass Album of the Year for his Song Garden Music Group debut recording I Believe, and he was nominated for the Fan Favorite Artist of the Year.

"I am so honored and I thank God that he has allowed me this opportunity,” mentioned Jimmy Fortune. “If this CD has touched one life then it has done what I wanted it to do. I grew up surrounded by gospel music, and it has been a dream of mine to record a CD like this. I want to thank my fans for standing behind me, without them this would not be possible."

The nominees for the SGN Music Awards were chosen by the staff of SouthernGospelNews.com. Starting on February 8, 2006, the fans will get a chance to vote for their favorites in each category. Voting ends on February 28, 2006.

Winners of the awards will be announced at the 2006 SGN Music Awards Celebration on April 25, 2006 in Smyrna, Tennessee. Performers, hosts, sponsors and the venue for the awards celebration will be announced at a later date.

“Jimmy is a spectacular musician and singer,” mentioned Deon Unthank of SouthernGospelNews.com. “He is very deserving of his nominations!”

Jimmy Fortune just released his second single from the album I Believe. “Take Me There” can be found on the new Song Garden Music Group compilation. His first single, “I Wrote It In Red” charted on the SouthernGospelNews.com Top 40 Weekly Chart for several weeks, as well as being voted the Fan Favorite on the chart for seven weeks.

More information on Jimmy Fortune can be found at his website at http://jimmyfortune.com.

About Jimmy Fortune
The name Jimmy Fortune may be new to the Gospel music community, but it is well known in the Country market for his time spent as the tenor of the Statler Brothers. Fortune performed with the famous group for 21 years before pursuing a solo career. His latest album, I Believe, was released through Song Garden Music Group and features the hit singles “I Wrote It In Red” and “Take Me There.”

About Song Garden Music Group
Nick Bruno and Robbie Hiner have pooled their considerable talents and decades of experience in gospel music to form a new and major recording company - Song Garden Music Group. The partnership also includes Dale Keffer, a Mennonite pastor and evangelist, and his brother Lynn and sister Marilyn. Artists currently under the Song Garden Music Group banner include the Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet, the Lesters, the LeFevre Quartet, the Rick Webb Trio, Jimmy Fortune, and Paid In Full. The label also has the development arm of Grapevine Records which is already home to half a dozen emerging artists.

Mark Bishop Cancels Homecoming

To our friends,

The Homecoming concerts in Berea, Kentucky have been a part of my life for over twenty years now, twenty-two to be exact. Good folks from all across the country have gathered in Berea and Irvine, Ky. on the third weekend in July for all of my adult life. It has been an annual tradition for many friends and family. Perhaps that is why this announcement is so hard to make.

It is with sadness that I must announce that there will not be a Homecoming concert in Berea, Ky. for the year 2006.

This announcement will no doubt come as a shock to all the folks who annually plan their summer vacations around this event. For that, I apologize.

The decision was a hard one to arrive at. Many, many prayers went up regarding the event. I have sought the wisdom and counsel of people I trust. It has not been a hasty decision but, rather, one that all the circumstances and facts always led back to. There is not one, but several contributing factors that led to this decision. I would like to alleviate anyone’s fears that it might be a health issue for someone in the Bishop family. Everyone is healthy.

Down through the years we have made so many friends and have had so many wonderful memories during these July weekends. I would like to thank some of the folks who have worked so hard down through the years to make this weekend special. First off, thanks to all the former members of The Bishops for all the spirit-filled music, testimony and laughter. Thanks to dad and mom for helping me to continue the event even after the groups retirement. I absolutely have been blessed by the hard work of Lynden Stockard, Steve and Theresa Chrisler, Henry Riddle and Jack Oldham. Since the very beginning, many aunts, uncles and cousins have volunteered their time and energy to help make this event happen. Doug and Norma Martin, Glen, Mike and Teresa Bishop, Loren and Jennifer Bishop, Jr. and Janice Williams are always there.

Down through the years, many of my good friends have also helped me. Steve and Carolyn Perkins, Obie, Cynda and Brandon Jones, Jerry Huntley and many others have worked hard so that others could be blessed.

I absolutely could not have continued this Homecoming weekend were it not for the efforts of ALL these people. The Lord blesses our lives with the kind works of other people and these people have all been a blessing to me.

I sincerely feel sadness for all the folks who look so forward to this weekend every year. It was because of the “Homecoming people” that I continued the concerts even after The Bishops retirement. It’s to you that I want to extend the biggest thanks. There would have been no Homecoming -ever - without you.

Even though the year 2006 will not have a Homecoming, I am continuing to sing and travel more than ever. With the help of Sonlite Records, The Harper Agency and Crown Communications, I am as busy as I have ever been. I have just recently recorded my first live concert video (to be released this spring) and I have also written ten brand new songs for a new album to be released this April. The concert schedule for this year is filling up, so I expect to do quite a bit of traveling again this year. The Lord is truly blessing this music ministry and I hope that you will continue to play a part in all of the wonderful things that God is doing through this music. I hope to see you at a concert real soon.

We appreciate your love and support, your prayers and well-wishes. Perhaps in the future, God will make a way for us to gather together again like we did for the past twenty-two years. Until then, like the old song says… “Thanks for the memories…”

May God continue to bless,

Mark Bishop
http://www.markbishopmusic.com

Big Mo Wins Four Beacon Awards

(Goodlettsville, TN) - The annual Emerald Coast SGMA awards were presented January 4th, 2006 at the Marina Civic Center in Panama City, Florida.

Big Mo Ostrander was nominated in six categories and was the winner in four the night the awards were announced.

Big Mo was awarded Soloist of the Year, Musician of the Year, Songwriter of the Year as well as receiving the award for Song of the Year for the song entitled “The Darkest Day”.

“The Darkest Day”, also happens to be the latest radio release for Big Mo on the Renaissance label, a division of the Eddie Crook Company. The response to this powerful ballad from Big Mo is destined to be a great song and is already receiving lots of airplay nationwide.

As usual, Big Mo was quick to give the praise to God. "I'm so humbled whenever someone believes in me enough to cast a vote for me for anything. I just hope that more than anything they see Jesus in me".

You can contact Big Mo via his website at http://www.bigmoministries.com or by calling the ministry office at 334-693-3091 or the Eddie Crook Company at 615-851-1360.

http://www.bigmoministries.com
http://www.eddiecrook.com

Crossway Signs Booking Agreement With BSA

Nashville,Tenn. – Crossway has signed an exclusive booking agreement with The Beckie Simmons Agency of Nashville, TN.

Beckie Simmons stated, "We are extremely excited to have Crossway join our talent roster. They absolutely electrify audiences everywhere they go. They appeal to Gospel Music fans of all ages, including the youth, and have strong radio appeal coupled with a strong fan base."

The agreement was signed on the heels of Crossway completing their popular CrabbJam tour alongside of the Crabb Family and the McRae's. Their radio success is also impressive. "It Looks Like Love To Me" was named Song Of The Year on the Gospel USA chart, "Unscarred" was a Top 25 hit on Inspirational Radio and “Long Arm Of Love” stayed at #2 for two months straight. Their new single, "Oh My, My" is currently at #10 on the Singing News chart.

With recent success, some may perceive that the group is new, but Crossway has been established for quite some time. Group member Paul Smith states, "Because we are young, people think that we are new, but we have actually been touring for over eight years."

Crossway performs over 130 dates annually to an overwhelming response from fans and industry insiders. They recently performed at the Mobile Civic Center with well known promoter, Frank Arnold who stated, “Crossway has a fresh sound that appeals to a broad audience. Their genuine sincerity is extremely evident in their delivery, and I highly recommend them.”

"We are so excited about being with BSA. Having someone like Beckie who believes in what you do, and shares that with others is absolutely priceless. The day after signing us, she scheduled a concert at the Renaissance Theatre in Dickson, TN specifically to see us live. It is hard work like that which leads us to believe that this transition will benefit us both," stated member Matt McFarland.

“This I Know” is available in retail stores nationwide and is distributed by Word Entertainment and New Day Christian Distributors. For more information regarding Crossway, visit http://www.crosswaynet.com or http://www.bsaworld.com . Click her for a picture BSA and Crossway.

Garry Sheppard Signs With Eddie Crook Talent

(Goodlettsville, TN) – Longtime member of the Kingsmen and Perfect Heart, Garry Sheppard of Goodlettsville, Tennessee, has recently signed with Eddie Crook Talent.

This inspiring soloist was nominated ten times as Gospel Music’s Favorite Tenor and is a member of the GMA Hall of Fame with the Kingsmen Quartet. Sheppard records on the 4 Square label.

To schedule Garry for your upcoming concerts call Rhonda Hinson of ECT at (615)851-1360.

http://www.eddiecrook.com

Rick MaHarrey Announces New Trio

Rick MaHarrey Formerly of The MaHarrey’s and Most recently The Southern Gospel Group Judah, Is announcing the formation of a new group, “The MaHarrey Trio.” Rick has written and Co- written many great songs such as: Jesus Can Heal Your Achy Breaky Heart, A Moment at his Feet, Leaving This World Behind, and many more.

The MaHarrey Trio is in the studio right now working on their debut project titled “The Next Generation.” It will have much of the same sound that you came to love from Judah, and also the same flavor that you still love to hear form his Father Paul and older Brother Daniel’s group “The MaHarreys.”

It is a different group carrying the same family name and the same excellence in music. There new single is on the way to radio stations worldwide as we speak, on Seraphim Music Group radio disc volume 6, cut 9. The title of the single is Souls at His Feet. This song is sure to quickly become a favorite of Southern Gospel radio. Find out more by visiting http://www.maharreytrio.org

Zane King Joins Compassion International

Nashville, TN – Zane King, President of Journey Records, announced today that he has entered into an agreement with Compassion International with home offices based from Colorado Springs, Colorado. Compassion is a Christian relief organization that focuses on lifting children out of poverty in Jesus’ name. Zane King and Journey Records will be developing a roster of predominantly Southern Gospel artists that will participate with Compassion’s marketing program.

Zane King states, “I am so encouraged about Compassion’s commitment to our industry. We have had so many artists over the past year that has struggled and some have even stopped performing. An artist that partners with Compassion is going to benefit in a variety of ways, but most of all I think the strengths and blessings of this organization is going to help anyone who is connected within this ministry. “Compassion is simply the most well designed ministry focused on the Great Commission that I have witnessed”, King adds.

Legacy Five, a gospel quartet based from Nashville, TN has been doing Compassion presentations for that past year in various concerts. More artists will be announced in the near future that will be joining the Compassion team.

To learn more about Compassion please use http://www.compassion.com .

http://www.journeyrecords.com

Crossroads Opens New Path For SG Fans

Crossroads Entertainment & Marketing now offers Gospel Music fans a new way to preview and buy projects from their roster of artists using a video presentation system called an Omnicast.

Fans who wish to participate in this groundbreaking technology can have the Omnicast delivered to them via e-mail. A link included in the e-mail will take them to a video presentation hosted by the artist, in which the artist takes the time to familiarize fans with their new project. When the video is complete fans can sample the entire project by listening to song clips, view the artist’s discography and even purchase the project online from the SG music superstore SouthernDirect.com.

Users of the Omnicast system will have an instant way to preview their favorite artists’ projects and also to cash in on the exclusive product offers issued by Crossroads through the Omnicast System.

Crossroads executive Chris White states, “We are very excited about this new media to deliver our products. As we continue to move into the instant information age, this technology allows us to reach thousands of end users instantaneously via e-mail delivery to their personal computer”.

Crossroads is the first company to have such technology with all the elements that are incorporated into the itStudio and Omnicast Manager system. Crossroads invites you to view a sampling of the Omnincasts.

To see The Kingdom Heirs click the appropriate link:
If you have a broadband internet connection click,
http://omnicast.iqueip.com/p/a37e7cb52a7845345fc6e6c73858f7f1/start/

If you have a dial-up connection click,
http://omnicast.iqueip.com/p/8bc0567614aba041873b60da26c9edea/start/

To see JBIF click the appropriate link:
If you have a broadband internet connection click,
http://omnicast.iqueip.com/p/36f8d8e21f0b90d73fcef04b492fea53/start/

If you have a dial-up connection click,
http://omnicast.iqueip.com/p/4ab2ee2ce21095517ee326b4f63df177/start/

Anyone who would like to receive free, all future Omnicast videos may enroll by simply clicking on the words “click here to subscribe” during any of the above Omnicast presentations.

http://www.crossroadsmusic.com/

The LeBeaus Hit Singing News Top 40 Chart

Nashville, TN- Father and son duet The LeBeaus of Lexington, NC have much to be thankful for these days. The groups current single, "Lord Paint My Mind," has landed the duet their first Top 40 song.

"It is such an honor to see a father and son work together, and connect as well as these guys do," stated record promoter, Rick Hendrix.

The LeBeaus have been traveling and singing for several years and feel their ministry has been guided by their strong faith in God.

Claude Hopper of the Hoppers stated, "We are so excited for our friends The LeBeaus. We are so glad their wonderful talent and spirit is being recognized."

The guys will be heading into the studio in the next several weeks to begin recording their new project. For more information on The LeBeaus visit http://www.thelebeaus.com or http://www.rickhendrix.com

Monty Milikin Joins Gospel Heritage Label

Whitesburg, GA: Lamp Music Group of Whitesburg, GA is pleased to announce the recent addition of #1 song-writer Monty Milikin to the artist roster of
their acclaimed Gospel Heritage Label.

Monty well known for his work through several Gospel Music ministries based in Georgia, has recently began working on a unique solo ministry featuring
dynamic vocals, live piano playing and exceptional songwriting.

Author of the #1 single, "I Am Home" by the McKameys, Monty's ministry is already touching many the world over.

"When God gave me these songs I knew He wanted me to share them with the world!" says Monty who will begin work on his debut Gospel Heritage
recording in early spring and anticipated street date of spring 2006.

Lamp President, Mike Pillow also shared," I've had the privilege of working with Monty several times in the past. Not only are his songs awesome, but so
is his humble spirit that comes through in each performance. We are looking forward to great things in the Lord from this recording."

For more information about Monty or Lamp Music Group: http://www.lampmusic.com and http://www.montymilikin.com

Changes in the Chuck Wagon Gang

Angelic Talent Agency Signs The Chuck Wagon Gang

Mark Crary of the Angelic Talent Agency is pleased to announce the signing of The Chuck Wagon Gang to a booking agreement.

he History of Gospel Music clearly comes down to the uplifting melodies of the Chuck Wagon Gang. The end of February marks a special time for the Chuck Wagon Gang, They will release their 70th Anniversary Album.

The spirit filled harmonies are shared with some of their greatest friends in country music. Like The Oak Ridge Boys, George Jones, Ricky Skaggs, John Connolly and many more will join the Chuck Wagon Gang . This new recording will hit the airwaves nationwide with their first single "I Saw The Light". The Chuck Wagons Gangs blend and harmony is unmatched . But the hard work and blessings that The Chuck Wagon Gang has encountered over 70 years has made memorable impressions in our lives today. With their rich heritage we consider it a great honor to welcome the Chuck Wagon Gang to Angelic Talent Agency.

Ronnie Page retires from the Chuck Wagon Gang, celebrating 50 years singing Southern Gospel Music. We wish him well as he continues to sing and travel as a soloist and humorist. Be sure and contact him and give him your best wishes.

Stan Hill joins The Chuck Wagon Gang

Stan Hill was born and raised in Knoxville, TN. He has been married to his wife, Kathy, for 25 years. Together, they have three children: Chris, 22; Brad,16; Rebekah,15. "Music has always been an important part of my life. Some of my earliest and best memories are of my family gathered around the piano singing a hymn while Mom played. I also remember lying in bed at night listening to the CWG records, and others, when I was supposed to be sleeping. Through the years, I have sung with my wife, local groups and theaters in Pigeon Forge, TN." "By singing with the Chuck Wagon Gang, I not only get to enjoy these great songs of faith, I also get to share in preserving the history and tradition of this style of music along with that of the Gang's history and tradition. God has truly given me the desires of my heart." Stan makes a great addition to the long standing list of excellent tenor singers who have been a part of the Gang's distinctive sound. His quality of voice and blend will continue the high standard established by Dad Carter, who made it clear to his kids ...'to sing the old songs and sing them the way I taught you.'

Update on Imperials’ Jeremie Hudson

We have an update from The Imperials. Last week they sent out a special prayer request for Jeremie Hudson who was going in to have emergency surgery. Jeremie is doing well, and he is at home recuperating. The Imperials appreciate everyone's prayers and ask that they continue to remember Jeremie throughout his recovery. Jeremie will be taking a few dates off as he is recuperating.

Mark Crary named Executive Director of Angelic Talent Agency

Robbin Poole of Seraphime Music Group is pleased to announce the addition of Mark Crary to Angelic Talent Agency.

Mark has been affiliated with Angelic Talent Agency in the capacity of booking dates for the past five years. This has gained him knowledge and experience with artists, churches, and promoters. Mark has also operated Daystar Promotions for fifteen years which produces forty plus concerts a year with a four state region. These experience’s have given Mark the opportunity to not only work as a promoter of Southern Gospel Music, but work as an agent as well. The business aspect of it, compliments his ability to run and operate a good solid agency.

Mark Crary stated… " This is a great opportunity. I have seen Angelic grow to become one of the top talent agencies in Southern Gospel Music. They have some of the very best artists on the road today. They have worked with hundred’s, and maybe even thousands of churches all across America plus Gospel Music’s top promoters. I look forward to being a part of the future of Angelic Talent Agency and it’s continuous growth in the Southern Gospel Music market."

The Artist that Angelic Talent Agency represent are
The Chuck Wagon Gang, The Nelons, Kevin Spencer & Friends,
The Haire Family, The Spencers, Ronnie Page and
Carrol Rawlings & The Harvesters

Gospel Music Expo Coming To Barnes Crossing Mall

On Friday and Saturday, February 17th & 18th the Food Court at the Barnes Crossing Mall will ring with great Gospel Music. Friday night’s concert will begin at 6:00pm and continue through 9:00pm. Saturday concerts will begin at 10:00am and continue until 9:00pm.

The concerts will feature gospel artists from all across the nation. Tupelo’s own Southern Image and New Ground from Scottsboro, Alabama along with the Eddie Crook Company are sponsors of this exciting event.

This is a free admission concert. For additional information call (662) 841-9662 or (256)574-0138.

Heirline Receives World Vision Award

(Goodlettsville, TN) – Cross and Crown Recording Artist Heirline recently received the New Artist Award at the World Vision Conference held in Houston, Texas.

World Vision is a Christian relief and development organization dedicated to helping children and their communities worldwide reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty.

Pictured along with Heirline is Marty Lonsdale, Vice President of World Vision International.

http://www.heirline.com
http://www.eddiecrook.com

The Ball Brothers Sign with Permanent Records

Permanent Records announce the signing of The Ball Brothers, a brand new Gospel group from Chickamauga GA. Andrew, Daniel and Stephen Ball combine the tight family harmonies of Southern Gospel music with the crooner styling of the 1940’s. Well-known producer, Wayne Haun, helmed the self-titled debut project. It features songs by some of today’s best-known songwriters dealing with various topics such as trusting in God’s peace, perseverance and forgiveness. The Ball Brothers are co-managed by Magnifying Glass, Inc. and Showcase Management, Inc. For a preview of The Ball Brothers new CD visit http://www.theballbrothers.com.

Dates and Talent Line-Up Announced for 7th Annual Gospel Music Fan Festival and Talent Contest

Festival Expands to Five Days

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - Deon and Susan Unthank, owners and editors of SouthernGospelNews.com, are proud to announce the dates and artists for the 7th Annual Gospel Music Fan Festival. The annual festival is set for July 25-July 29, 2005.

This year, the Festival will be expanding to five nights due to the demand of artists and fans. A Tuesday evening concert has been added.

“Each year the number of artists that want to be a part of Festival just grows and grows,” said Deon Unthank of SouthernGospelNews.com. “We had to expand the Festival to five nights in order to fit everyone in this year.”

This year’s Fan Festival will include performances from the Crabb Family, Karen Peck & New River, the Kingsmen, Dove Brothers Quartet, Joyce Martin, the Ruppes, LordSong, CrossWay, the Anchormen, Mike Bowling Group, Three Bridges, the Imperials, the Lesters, Hope’s Call, Johnny Minick and friends, First Love, HisSong, Daryl Williams Trio, Rejoice!, the Dills, Mercy’s Well, Jonathan White, the Browns, Young Harmony, John Lanier, and host group Sunday Edition.

As in years past, this year's convention will remain free to the public. A love offering will be taken each night.

The inclusion of the Saturday morning talent contest will remain a part of the Festival. The talent contest will take part during the morning hours and features judges whom are prominent in the Southern Gospel industry. More information on the talent contest will be forthcoming.

Additional artists will be added at a later date as some confirmations have yet to be received.

"Like year’s past, we have sought out not only top tier groups, but also those that are extremely talented and on their way up to perform on our convention,” said Deon Unthank. "This year, more than any other, we feel like we have met that objective.”

The 7th Annual Gospel Music Fan Festival and Talent Contest will be held at River of Life Assembly of God, Smyrna, Tennessee.

Artist listing is subject to change.

A complete artist listing and talent lineup for each night of the Festival will be posted soon at the Gospel Music Fan Festival’s official home on the web at http://gospelmusicfanfestival.com. Check back often to see major updates to the schedule.

For more information, feel free to email the site at .

About SouthernGospelNews.com
SouthernGospelNews.com has grown from relative obscurity to the industry's leading internet publication for Southern Gospel news and information in only a few short years. The site includes a wide variety of features, consisting of artist interviews, a weekly chart, late-breaking news, and much more.

2006 SGN Music Awards Announce Nominees for Fan Favorite Artist of the Year

Voting for Winners Begins Tomorrow, February 8, 2006

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Deon and Susan Unthank, owners of SouthernGospelNews.com, are proud to announce the nominees for the first ever Fan Favorite Artist of the Year. The top 10 finalists for this new award were submitted by the fans from February 1st through noon February 7th, 2006.

The first ever nominees for Fan Favorite Artist of the Year are as follows:

Booth Brothers
Brian Free & Assurance
Crabb Family
Dove Brothers Quartet
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
Gaither Vocal Band
Gold City
Hope’s Call
Jimmy Fortune
Karen Peck & New River

Voting in all of the categories for the SGN Music Awards will begin at midnight on February 8, 2006 and will last through February 28, 2006. As in year’s past, the nominees in the additional categories were chosen by the staff of SouthernGospelNews.com.

As far as nominations go, the Booth Brothers led all artist nominees this year with a record setting 11 nominations, including Song of the Year (“He Saw It All”), Album of the Year (The Blind Man Saw It All), Male Group of the Year, a Male Vocalist of the Year nomination for Ronnie Booth, and a Songwriter of the Year (Artist) nomination for Jim Brady, in addition to several other nods and the Fan Favorite Artist of the Year nomination.

Following right behind the Booth Brothers was Ernie Haase & Signature Sound with ten nominations. The McRaes and Karen Peck & New River received nine nominations apiece. Receiving eight nominations was Gold City. Hope’s Call and the Crabb Family both earned seven nominations apiece. The Ruppes and the Dove Brothers Quartet earned five nods. Receiving four nominations were the Kingdom Heirs and the Talley Trio. Mark Bishop, Triumphant Quartet, Hoskins Family, CrossWay, and Gordon Mote each earned three nominations, while the Isaacs, Collingsworth Family, Chuck Peters (of SGLive365.com and SGShowPrep), Three Bridges, Peasall Sisters, the Perrys, Greater Vision, Mike Bowling, Jody Brown Indian Family, Jimmy Fortune, Brian Free & Assurance, and Johnny Minick all received double nominations.

Producer Jeff Collins earned the most individual nominations for his work during 2006. In addition to landing in the Producer of the Year (Professional) category, Jeff earned an additional five nominations for his production work this year – bringing his total to six. Earning five individual nominations were Annie McRae and Michael Sykes. Rebecca Isaacs Bowman, Sonya Isaacs, and Wayne Haun all received four individual nominations for songwriting and producing. Landing three individual nominations were Mark Bishop, Donna Beauvais, Phil Johnson, Daniel Riley, Mike Bowling, Bubba Smith, Heather Day, and Barry Weeks.

The Pacesetter Award is awarded to any artist, individual, or organization which has shown great strides in the industry and has raised the bar for others. This year’s nominees for the 2006 Pacesetter are the Booth Brothers, CrabbJam Tour 2005 (featuring the Crabb Family, CrossWay, and the McRaes), Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Chuck Peters (SGShowPrep & SGLive365.com), and the Talley Trio.

More information on the 2006 SGN Music Awards Celebration will be forthcoming, including hosts, performers, venue, sponsors, etc. The date for this year’s SGN Music Awards Celebration is Tuesday, April 25, 2006.

A partial list of nominees for the 2006 SGN Music Awards are listed below:

SONG OF THE YEAR: "Do You Want to Be Forgiven?" (Ernie Haase & Signature Sound), "Friend Til the End" (Isaacs), "He Saw It All" (Booth Brothers), "I Got Here As Fast As I Could" (Mark Bishop), "It's Just Another Red Sea" (Gold City), "Just One Touch" (Karen Peck & New River), "Long Arm of Love" (CrossWay), "Long As I Got King Jesus" (Brian Free & Assurance), "There Is a Remedy" (McRaes), "You Are Loved" (Hope's Call)

ALBUM OF THE YEAR: Anything But Ordinary...Everything But Typical (Dove Brothers Quartet), Beyond the Music ~ An Acappella Collection (Hope's Call), Ernie Haase & Signature Sound (Ernie Haase & Signature Sound), Good To Be Free (Karen Peck & New River), Heaven (Gold City), It's Over...Let Eternity Begin (Hoskins Family), Perfect Love (McRaes), Sweet Forever (Ruppes), The Blind Man Saw It All (Booth Brothers), Triumphant Quartet (Triumphant Quartet)

PACESETTER: Booth Brothers, CrabbJam Tour 2005 (Crabb Family, CrossWay, McRaes), Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Chuck Peters (SGShowPrep & SGLive365.com), Talley Trio

BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST OF THE YEAR: Collingsworth Family, Crystal River, Monument Quartet, Gordon Mote, Young Harmony

MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR: Ronnie Booth (Booth Brothers), Anthony Facello (Mercy's Mark), Mitchell Kenitzer (Three Bridges), Arthur Rice (Kingdom Heirs), Daniel Riley (Gold City)

FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR: TaRanda Greene (Greenes), Annie McRae (McRaes), Karen Peck Gooch (Karen Peck & New River), Charlotte Ritchie (Jeff & Sheri Easter), Lauren Talley (Talley Trio)

MALE GROUP OF THE YEAR: Booth Brothers, Dove Brothers Quartet, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Gold City, Triumphant Quartet

FEMALE GROUP OF THE YEAR: Beloved, Everlasting Hope, McRaes, Peasall Sisters, Ruppes

MIXED GROUP OF THE YEAR (a tie necessitated six finalists): Crabb Family, Hope's Call, Hoskins Family, Karen Peck & New River, Perrys, Talley Trio

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR (ARTIST): Mark Bishop, Jim Brady (Booth Brothers), Rodney Griffin (Greater Vision), Annie McRae (McRaes), Daryl Williams (Daryl Williams Trio)

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR (PROFESSIONAL): Steven Cheney, Joel Lindsey, Rebecca J. Peck, John Darin Rowsey, Dianne Wilkinson

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR (ARTIST): Donna Beauvais (Hope's Call), Mike Bowling, Heather Day (Ruppes), Daniel & Doug Riley (Gold City), Roger Talley (Talley Trio)

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR (PROFESSIONAL): Jeff Collins, Wayne Haun, Bubba Smith, Michael Sykes, Barry Weeks

MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR: Jeremy Brown (Jody Brown Indian Family), Kim Collingsworth (Collingsworth Family), Justin Ellis (Crabb Family), Gordon Mote, Roy Webb (Ernie Haase & Signature Sound)

FAN FAVORITE ARTIST OF THE YEAR: Booth Brothers, Brian Free & Assurance, Crabb Family, Dove Brothers Quartet, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Gaither Vocal Band, Gold City, Hope’s Call, Jimmy Fortune, Karen Peck & New River

More information, including songwriter and producer listings and additional nominations, is available at SouthernGospelNews.com.

About SouthernGospelNews.com
SouthernGospelNews.com has grown from relative obscurity to the industry's leading internet publication for Southern Gospel news and information in only a few short years. The site includes a wide variety of features, consisting of artist interviews, a weekly chart, late-breaking news, and much more.

Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet to Award Thousands of Dollars in Scholarship Money This Year

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Recently, the Old Time Gospel Quartet joined the efforts of Liberty University, Jerry Falwell, Chancellor and Rod Godwin, President of Jerry Falwell Ministries, to promote Christian Education by providing thousands of dollars in scholarships to qualified recipients.

The quartet is pleased to be the only group in the Southern Gospel music industry to be representing the world's largest and fastest growing evangelical university. Liberty University has doubled enrollment and tripled square footage in the last three years.

Last week alone, Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet awarded $120,000.00 in scholarships.

If you have high school students, or you would like to attend Liberty University, find a concert in your area or contact the Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet by emailing them at .

The Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet recently released their debut studio Song Garden Music Group release – Restoration. Restoration was produced by industry veterans Robbie Hiner and Nick Bruno and produced executively by Marilyn Keffer, Lynn Keffer, and Dale Keffer. It also features studio work by some of the industry’s top session musicians including Tommy Wells, Dirk Johnson, Bobby All, Kelly Back, and orchestration by the Nashville String Machine.

The group’s current single from Restoration is “Morning Glory Jubilee.” Restoration is being distributed nationally through Song Garden Music Group and New Day Distribution.

More information on the Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet can be found at http://otghquartet.com.

Listeners can feel free to listen to audio clips of Restoration at http://songgardenmusicgroup.com.

For more information on booking the Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet in your area, contact the Beckie Simmons Agency at http://bsaworld.com.

About the Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet
Members Jeff Stanley, Wyatt Wilson, Tony Jarman, and Jerry Pilgrim have collectively over 100 years of experience traveling and singing Gospel Music. These men have dedicated their lives to minister through music. Their goal is to promote good Christian entertainment while giving God the glory and giving people the opportunity to accept Christ. The group was awarded Horizon Group of the Year in 2001 at the Singing News Fan Awards.

About Song Garden Music Group
Nick Bruno and Robbie Hiner have pooled their considerable talents and decades of experience in gospel music to form a new and major recording company - Song Garden Music Group. The partnership also includes Dale Keffer, a Mennonite pastor and evangelist, and his brother Lynn and sister Marilyn. Artists currently under the Song Garden Music Group banner include the Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet, the Lesters, the LeFevre Quartet, the Rick Webb Trio, Jimmy Fortune, and Paid In Full. The label also has the development arm of Grapevine Records which is already home to half a dozen emerging artists.

Paid In Full Makes First Tour Stop to Canada

Group Also Featured on New Torch DVD

NEW ALBANY, Miss. – Paid In Full, one of Southern Gospel’s most respected trios, will be making its first ever appearance in Canada this March. The exciting tour will making its way to Manitoba, Canada on the weekend of March 25 and 26, 2006.

This trip marks Paid In Full’s first opportunity to sing outside of the United States.

"This is very exciting for Paid In Full,” said Bradley Littlejohn of Paid In Full. “We've prayed that God would expand our range of singing, and this is definitely an answer to those prayers! We're excited about meeting new people and sharing God's love on our first (hopefully not last) trip to Canada. We encourage anyone who is close to come and see us for these special events."

In addition, Paid In Full was recently featured on the new Torch DVD. The live video was recorded at the National Quartet Convention last September in Louisville, Tennessee. The video featured prominent artists under the age of 30 in the Southern Gospel music industry.

Lance Moore of the group was featured in a quartet along with John Rulapaugh (Palmetto State Quartet), Josh Singletary (Monument Quartet), Aaron McCune (Palmetto State Quartet), and Andrew Ishee (Palmetto State Quartet) on “I’m Getting Ready to Leave This World.”

Group members Bradley Littlejohn and Jeff Crews performed in the choir on the DVD. The new DVD is being released by Daywind Records. The Torch DVD also features performances by members of the Crabb Family, Talley Trio, CrossWay, the Perrys, Hope’s Call, Jody Brown Indian Family, Florida Boys, Dixie Echoes, the McRaes, and many more.

Lance Moore said, "What an honor to be included in such a diverse and talented group of young people. This presentation of the Gospel will be one to remember. It will be fun 10 years from now to see these artists' progression in Gospel music - very exciting!"

Paid In Full recently released their debut album for Song Garden Music Group. Lovin’ Out Loud’s debut single, the title cut, was just sent out to Southern Gospel radio.

More information on Paid In Full can be found at http://paidinfull.net.

About Paid In Full
Based out of New Albany, Mississippi, Paid In Full is a trio of talented young men who not only sing together, they are friends who have experienced life together. The group has a slew of radio hits which include “My Father’s House,” “Sailing Towards Home,” and “Work of Grace.” The group’s current release, Lovin’ Out Loud was released by Song Garden Music .

About Song Garden Music Group
Nick Bruno and Robbie Hiner have pooled their considerable talents and decades of experience in gospel music to form a new and major recording company - Song Garden Music Group. The partnership also includes Dale Keffer, a Mennonite pastor and evangelist, and his brother Lynn and sister Marilyn. Artists currently under the Song Garden Music Group banner include the Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet, the Lesters, the LeFevre Quartet, the Rick Webb Trio, Jimmy Fortune, and Paid In Full. The label also has the development arm of Grapevine Records which is already home to half a dozen emerging artists.

Sondra Burnett to Celebrate Family Reunion On New Album

CABOT, Arkansas – Sondra Burnett, one of Southern Gospel’s most beloved female soloists, will be releasing her much anticipated new album, Family Reunion, soon.

Family Reunion was produced by popular industry veteran Les Butler at Upfront Studios in Nashville, Tennessee. The project was engineered by Terry Thompson.

“I’m very excited about this new album,” remarked Sondra Burnett. “I think Family Reunion really reflects who I am as a singer, a wife, a mother, a Christian – all that. I’m just a country gal from Arkansas who loves the Lord. I believe this new recording says just that.”

Burnett, a critically acclaimed vocalist and comedienne, wrote two of the 12 tracks on Family Reunion – “He’s Alive” and “He Came to Me.” The album also features many other prominent songwriters in the Southern Gospel industry.

Family Reunion is the follow up to her critically acclaimed previous recording, simply titled Sondra. Sondra featured the hit songs “I Can Tell You the Time,” “It’s Me Again, Lord,” and “It’s Alright.” The album also earned Sondra three SGN Music Award nominations, including Breakthrough Artist of the Year.

“I’ve got a lot of exciting things planned for my ministry this year,” mentioned Sondra. “Releasing Family Reunion is just the beginning!”

Sondra was nominated for an American Christian Music Award in 2005 for Favorite Female Southern Gospel Artist. Her current single is currently eating up the airwaves across the country and has already found a place at home in the Top 10 on both the SouthernGospelNews.com Top 40 Weekly Chart and American Christian Music Journal’s Top 50 Southern Gospel chart. Be listening for “It’s Alright” on Southern Gospel radio now!

You can check out Sondra’s new webpage at http://sondraburnett.com

About Sondra Burnett
Sondra Burnett is one of the fastest rising artists in Southern Gospel. Her ministry is based out of Cabot, Arkansas. Sondra ministers all over the nation and has a real heart for women’s ministries. She was most recently nominated for Favorite Female Artist in the American Christian Music Awards this year, as well as receiving three nominations in the 2004 SGN Music Awards, including Breakthrough Artist of the Year. Her current single is “It’s Alright”, from her latest album, Sondra.

Young Harmony Nominated for Song of the Year by GMA

Nashville, TN- The 37th Annual Dove Awards were announced earlier this week. Young Harmony and "Good Morning Lord" have landed a nomination for Southern Gospel Song of the Year.

"We just done know what to say. We had no idea we would even be in the running. It was a total surprise. We came home that afternoon with like 80 messages on our machines and the email box was full. We were so humbled," stated Johnathan Bond of Young Harmony.

"Johnathan and Ginger have quickly become one of the most recognized duets in Christian music. The duet was nominated last year for Southern Gospel Album of the Year at the Dove Awards. All nominations are awesome. But, being selected as one of the Top 5 songs in our genre for the year is amazing," said Rick Hendrix. Hendrix handles management for Young Harmony.

"It has been an amazing journey watching this ministry grow. Your looking at a couple that knows about pain and salvation. Johnathan was killed by an 18 wheeler and brought back to life and Ginger survived cancer. They are such an inspiration to my office and this industry. They're the real deal. And God's placing his favor over his people," stated Hendrix.

To learn more about Young Harmony visit- http://www.youngharmony.com or http://www.rickhendrix.com

Daywind Music Group Nominated For Fourteen Dove Awards

NASHVILLE, Tenn.— During a press conference held in downtown Nashville on Wednesday, February 1, 2006, the Gospel Music Association announced the nominees for the 37th Annual Dove Awards.

Several artists from the Daywind Music Group family were honored with Dove Award nominations during the press conference.

Nominations included Southern Gospel Recorded Song (“Greater Is He” and “Through The Fire,” The Crabb Family; “Long As I Got King Jesus,” Brian Free & Assurance; “Not That You Died,” Legacy Five); Male Vocalist of the Year (Jason Crabb); Inspirational Recorded Song (“Holy Ground,” The Crabb Family); Bluegrass Recorded Song (“Low and Down,” McRaes); Contemporary Gospel Recorded Song (“Presence Of The Lord,” Christ Tabernacle Choir); Southern Gospel Album (Live at Brooklyn Tabernacle, The Crabb Family; Live In New York City, Brian Free & Assurance); Bluegrass Album (One Rose, The Lewis Family); Country Album (Perfect Love, McRaes); Instrumental Album (Songs of Remembrance, Wayne Haun) and Long Form Music Video (Live At Brooklyn Tabernacle, The Crabb Family).

Winners will be announced on Wednesday, April 5, 2006 at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee.

For a complete listing of nominees regarding the Dove awards, visit http://www.gospelmusic.org . For further information regarding Daywind Music Group, visit http://www.daywindrecords.com

Spring Hill Worship Launches New Worship Series

Recordings Offer Worship Experiences Across Multiple Denominations from Various Churches Currently Impacting Their Communities

BRENTWOOD, Tenn.—February 3rd, 2006—Spring Hill Worship, the worship recording and publishing imprint of Spring Hill Music Group, has just released a new line of worship products this week to stores everywhere. The line, called Echoes Around the World, captures thriving worship experiences taking place regularly at various churches throughout the country.

The Echoes Around the World series launches with six releases from the following congregations: Champions Centre (Tacoma, Wash.); Brownsville Church (Pensacola, Fla.); Second Baptist Church--featuring the eleven eleven band (Houston, Texas); Hope Presbyterian-with Bruce Carroll (Memphis, Tenn.); Eagle Heights Baptist with Timothy Haynes (Oklahoma City, Okla.) and the Fourth Avenue Church of Christ—featuring the Hallal Singers (Franklin, Tenn).

“This is a true sound of worship music with no gimmicks--the sound of what churches actually sound like,” stated Joe Beck, visionary for the Echoes Around the World line. “You can hear the diversity…the true passion of what’s taking place out there.

“I was amazed when I began working with these congregations. Many times, we as an industry can come across as telling the church ‘here’s how to do worship music.’ And while that can have merit, some of these churches are doing a great job already; and they are finding ways to make moving music.

“You look at some of the ‘indie’ artists in the mainstream of music,” continues Beck. “Some of the success stories are artists who were doing what they do, and someone realized, ‘hey, this is good the way it is.’ That’s how this is…this is what these congregations are doing...it’s working in their respective areas, and we believe others in various parts of the world will enjoy it as well!”

A synopsis of what is taking place in these congregations follows:

The Champions Centre is a 5,000-member church based in Tacoma, WA, led by Pastors Kevin and Sheila Gerald, who have led the church by following its mission: "Equipping people to live successful Christian lives." They teach that success doesn't begin with work, family or wealth; but true, lasting and genuine success begins by putting God first in life, starting with Sunday morning. This fresh example of leadership has been transferred to worship pastor Jeri Nicholson. Jeri has developed a vibrant, exciting worship ministry that serves all age levels, from children and youth to corporate worship. This team has birthed a sound of worship that is unique and inspiring to worshipers around the world.

Brownsville Assembly of God is a church living out its destiny by seeking to build a house of possibilities. Having been a leader in the praise and worship movement for years, Brownsville continues to be an inspiring voice among churches in North America and around the world.

Second Baptist Church of Houston is home to the eleven eleven band, who got their name because they provide the worship music for the Sunday service that begins at 11:11 a.m. One of the more unique churches in the country, Second Baptist has a membership of over 40,000 that meet on three different campuses. Pastored by Dr. Ed Young, the church previously birthed the group Caedmon’s Call.

Hope Presbyterian, located just outside Memphis, TN, in the city of Cordova, has grown from 25 people meeting in a restaurant in 1988 to more than 6,000 worshiping in their facility built in 1996. With a worship ministry led by Bruce Carroll, Hope Presbyterian purposefully seeks to create a worship atmosphere so that “…every person, no matter what their church background may be, can connect with the God that loves them and calls them to a deeper relationship with Him.”

Founded in Oklahoma City, OK, in 1994, Eagle Heights Church believes that the church is “a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints or a nursing home for the complacent.” Eagle Heights Church teaches that there are no spectators on God’s team; every member is to be serving on the field. Timothy Haynes, who has appeared on several of the Spring Hill Worship releases, leads the music team.

Fourth Avenue Church of Christ, of Franklin, TN, a congregation that dates back to 1883, has a long and rich history of a cappella music, a tradition in the Church of Christ denomination. The Hallal Singers are a strong representation of the a cappella worship expressed at this church. Music minister Ken Young, through Hallal Music, is at the forefront of the Church of Christ worship movement, working to both preserve the a cappella heri