(Goodlettsville, TN) – Eddie Crook and Dave Wilcox of the Eddie Crook Company are pleased to announce that Tony Gore has signed an exclusive agreement with the company. Tony has agreed to write the liner notes on the upcoming Wilburns project.
http://www.eddiecrook.com
Author: SGN
| Author's Website: http://sogospelnews.com/
Written: 10/25/2004
| 
Category: News & Scoops
Comments: 36
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LAME. LAME. LAME. Proof positive that hype will always let you down. BAD FORM. BOOOOOO
This is suppose to be exciting news? Sounds more like a lame and cheesy way to get something noticed. I've seen some lame ways to get a press release, but this one takes the cake. Makes ya wonder now about the S.P.A.M. hype. My thought could be: If you buy "our products" we will give you a can of spam absolutely free, only one can per family or household please...lol. Another unsuccessful attempt to get noticed....way to go boys!
Lame?, I dont think so... PEOPLE THIS IS MARKETING. An attemp to "get noticed" is what publicity is all about. Now, whether you agree with the method or not... IT WORKED! Lets be honest, a great deal of southern gospel music is entertainment, and entertainment is almost 100% hype. Listen to the programing on your local SG gospel station, and we should all agree that this business is as much about hype as it is talent (in some cases more so). Consider this, why do some of your favorite groups shout on the same song, at the same time, night after night... its hype. Why does your favorite singer "feel lead" to tell the same stories in the same part of the service night after night... its hype. Why do our favorite groups wear the nicest clothes, have the most elaborate set-ups, ride the most expensive buses, and promote their material in the "newest and most state of the art" manners... HYPE, HYPE, HYPE (and we EAT IT UP). Lets face it, most everything we do is hype. Our jobs (proclaiming our company to be the best), our hobbies (who has the most chrome on their bike), our childrens activities (those magnetic stickers and bumper stickers with your childs sporting number on them). Hype creates excitement,excitement draws attention and attention produces those little green bills that we all need (and please dont give me that "the love of money is the root" speach). In closing lets remind ourselves that as much as we would like to deny it... THIS IS A BUSINESS and publicity (hype) is just one of the tools that must be untilized to promote the product of SG music.
Have a nice day
This is total bunk! You guys are like little kids, using any little bit of so-called "news" to get attention lately. This sort of stunt is about half of what's wrong with the SG music business today. I guess when you produce on the cheap, "cookie-cutter" projects until you drive away most of your name artists and lose credibility with radio and the industry you'll do anything to try and rebound. I guess if you can't get Tony Gore as an artist this is the next best thing.
Well I thought it was funny anyway. LOL
Come on folks......think about it. It's not hype, it's not marketing.....it's funny! Sometimes we we get so caught up in our own press releases we forget to have a little fun! Thanks Dave and Eddie, we get it (or some of us do)!
The Eddie Crook COmpany is quite possible the single largest contributor to SG music today. Lets all remember the 80s and early 90s when Dave Wilcox and Eddie Crook gave us... The McKameys, The Bishops, The Perrys, The Perrys Sisters, The Wilburns, The Isaacs, The Mid South Boys, The "reformed" Dixie Melody Boys, The Fox Brothers, Carrol Roberson, Cedar Ridge, and on and on and on. These guys are GREAT at spotting and developing talent (in their own way). I would not be the SG fan I am today with the Eddie Crook Company. Call them cookie cutter if you will, but to anyone who can remember GOD ON THE MOUNTAIN, LAZARUS COME FORTH, I REMEMBER THE DAY, GODS PROMISED LAND, CARRY ON, THATS MY CHILD, FAMILY CHAIN, RESSURECTION MORN... (wow what a resume).
They are the ones who introduced us to many of the artists we love today......
Lets just face it.. the "ECC" was on thier way Down. and this is just a way to try to make them look better.. but they will never get the recognition they need with the type of artist they have... "NOW dont get me wrong there are 4 artist on his roster that really dont need to be there b\c they are better than most PRO singers today." but if he really wants his name to get out there get rid of the "MOM AND POP GROUPS". and that is just my opinion.. b\c the ECC are defnantly behind the times.. they have alot of Catching up to do. with Daywind, Spring hill and Horizon records.
Who really Cares...??
Apparently everyone here cares or they wouldn't take the time or the effort to comment, including you, JTR.
Does commenting mean caring? hmmm?
Well, if you truly didn't care at all, you wouldn't bother to post, but you care enough that you think everyone else cares about your comments. HMMMMM.....
No, Just you.
Okay - the childish banter is worse than the press release. Need a time-out???
This has just proven that Southern Gospel has no idea of what marketing is. Eddie came up with novel idea. It got ECC noticed as well as Tony Gore. This is innovative thinking. This is what we need more of in Southern Gospel. Come on guys, it's time we came out of the backwoods and used interesting marketing.
JTR, you may not have cared, but it sure got your attention, which was the purpose of the whole thing.
Deon Unthank
SoGospelNews.com
My Blog
Some people are like Slinkys… Not really good for anything, but they
still bring a smile to your face when you push them down a flight of stairs - Author Unknown
What was so novel and innovative about it? I must be missing something.
Although it's known that ECC has been known for promoting less than desireable artists,I agree that had it not been for his company,we wouldn't know about all the great artists that he has brought to the forefront in this industry.And those artists are still doing quite well.Could it be that ECC is headed back to the quality that they built this company on?If so,congrats ECC for seeing the light!!!And I look foward to seeing what kind of "QUALITY"artist you will be bringing to the table in the up and coming year.I think that Tony Gore is a step in the right direction for getting back the reputation this company was respected for in thier earlier years,GOOD MOVE GUYS!!!Just a little food for thought.
All I have to say is this.. This Company.. has long way to go before they get back on top... they need to weed out their artist, they have way tooo many on their roster.. I mean 50 to 60 different artist. that is not good business thinging. and I say that b\c how can 6 different staff memebers take care of each artist and give them the attention that they need??? in marketing Radio booking and recording.. that is why this companys name has been tarnished. b\c they dont take pride in their recordings. I am not being mean , just honest. they have some bad Talent on their roster. I mean Really.. They would Sign My Cat "Bubbles" if she could sing "AMAZEING GRACE" in tune. If they really want to make the company stand out.. Get RID OF 50 of your SO CALLED Artist and Keep the ones who are REALLY GOOD and really want to WORK HARD and make a staement in the music industry. that is just my opinion. and you know you cant argue with it.. b\c its the truth.....................
WOW, you people just jumped on this like a dog on a bone. its a PRESS RELEASE. and if you've read the singing news lately there are alot more lame press releases than this one. Tony was a great contributer to the Wilburns for the time he was with them, and they remain great friends. So him writing the liner notes on the project is good for him and for them. By the way, its a harder task than you think deciding who writes them. So in all Christian love and respect..BACK OFF folks!!! its a Press release. nothing more, nothing less. and by the way, if you havn't noticed, we are going to hear ALOT more from the ECC in the next few months and upcoming year, and I'd have to say, someone who has the intergrity and respect that Eddie has in the buisness is probably the only person who can truly pull off what he is saying he will....so watch out folks, crow can be served in many different ways.
Congrats to Dave and Eddie for their "OUT OF THE BOX" thinking. As an artist with the ECC, I can honestly say we have developed more than a business relationship, we are friends. Eddie and Dave have spent hours, I mean hours, working with the group I sing with and manage on just about every facet of the group's ministry from singing to presentation, dress, personal conduct, business decisions, etc. I know from personal experience that they spend the amount of time that is needed and requested in working with any group to help make them better. If any group is willing to work hard and wants to be the best they can be they will work with them. That is their ministry. I find it distasteful that many would voice the opinion that they would take just about anyone into their "fold". The ECC has discovered many of the greats in the business and schooled them the same way they are schooling us. Don't let the fact that alot of the groups don't have charting songs. That doesn't mean they are sub-par or lacking in talent. It does mean that they are working hard to hone their craft and willing to be taught by one of the best who has years of road and studio experience to back up his instruction. I am proud to be associated with the Eddie Crook Co.
OUT OF THE BOX THINKING? Come on, guys. # 1 - liner notes are a thing of the past, and obviously not original. # 2 - a press release on who is writing the liner notes?? PAH-LEASE. In an industry that is PRESS RELEASED to death ????
Now, the S.P.A.M. promotion? Perhaps an out of the box thing. After all, everyone is curious.
BUT A PIECE OF ADVICE to anyone trying to come up with new hype to market their stuff -- make sure your actual announcement lives up to your hype. If it doesn't, you'll have a hard time getting people to take you seriously again.
Let me first say amen to Joe White's comments. From someone who knows first hand of The Eddie Crook Company's dedication to new artist, I must say I am surprised at what this little tongue & cheek press release has opened up. The Gabbards have been on the artist roster of The Eddie Crook Co. for over 13 years. We have shopped around with all of the so called Southern Gospel record companies most of which are no where to be seen now! We have received steady intelligent and caring advise for all these years. We are now ready from our perspective and theirs to launched forward in spreading the gospel message.
I also personally know many of the artist that some have said need to be replaced and let me tell you that there is more talent and commitment in this group right now than I have ever witnessed. This company specializes in bringing the artist to the business and letting the industry decide who rises to the top. If the attitude persisted that groups aren't worthy to be heard than we might not ever have a McKameys or Bishops and others. In my opinion what The Eddie Crook Co. has done and is doing for the industry is invaluable. So lighten up a little. Until you have been where they are you can't honestly appreciate what they are doing.
You know I think it is refreshing to see someone trying something different. A little fun and a little promotion at the same time. I commend Mr. Crook and Mr. Gore for having some fun with the fans. I for one will not be disappointed in seeing what happens next.
As to the post about an industry full of press releases...well this time it was something different and unique. Props Mr. Crook!
I must tell you it never fails to amaze me when people get so negative in their comments about things they really know nothing about.
I was there when the "Tony Gore signs" Photo was taken. In fact, it all resulted in a restaurant the night before. My family and I along with some other friends were eating after the NQC with Tony Gore. No-one from the ECC was even there. Since the entire convention was buzzing about what the EDDIE CROOK company was up to, we all thought it was so funny when jokingly Tony Gore told our friends that he had just signed with ECC as well. It was great. In fact I told the company the next night at NQC, and both the company and Tony thought it would be great to just take a photo and have some fun with it.
It wasn't funny because it was inconceivable, but funny because everybody was already talking about the excitement at the company, so this just made everybody talk all the more!
Way back in 1983, my group "CHOSEN" signed with Eddie Crook and enjoyed many years of success. Recently after much prayer I accepted their invitation to return to the company as a soloist. I am so proud to be a part of this legendary company. I really must warn the critics, keep a close eye on the EDDIE CROOK company. Remember, everyone said it would never happen the first time, just as they are now, but history speaks for itself. I've been doing this for a long time, and I must tell you, if you feel compelled to talk about the future of this great company, use very sweet words, for it just might be you will have to eat the words you speak when all is said and done. Have you seen all the publicity they have been getting lately? I really don't think they are hurting for attention. This photo was just done in fun. It should be obvious to everyone, that Tony posed for the photo, so he must have thought it was a fun thing to do as well. So my advice...why not lighten up a little.
As someone previously associated with the ECC, I can say that Eddie does have a lot of knowledge to share. However, there is also a huge price tag associated with receiving that knowledge and with producing a high quality recording. Everything you do with the company has to be paid for separately. In my opion, this company uses naive artists that will do anything if someone says they have the least bit of talent and take their money to promote the groups that they really like. Most people are right. There are more than half of the ECC's artists that will never "make it" simply because they aren't good enough. Now, don't get me wrong, they do have some of the most humble, God fearing artists around.
I would like for "surprised" or anyone else for that matter, to define what "make it" means. If it is fame and acknowledgement that's one thing, but if it is to learn how to minister in a more professional manner with the whole of who you are as an artist that is a whole different matter. There's more to singing than singing. Making it to me means being the best I can be with God's help and portraying the love of God through music.
It would be nice to be on the charts but that doesn't necessarily mean an artist has made it. So I would like to know what the definition of "making it" is.
Let me introduce you to the Gabbards. They are a family group from Northern Kentucky consisting of two brothers, a sister, and a daughter and son. They are on fire for the Lord. They sing with excitement and conviction and have excellent harmony. They come from a long line of preachers and singers and songwriters. They are gifted and are working extremely hard to win as many as they can through their singing ministry as well as Gabbard Tabernacle in Butler, Ky. My hope is that I would show half as much love and grace as they do as they sing and minister for the Lord. They are ALWAYS kind and considerate of the public wherever they sing. One does not know why some artists have not been able to garner more recognition. I know in their case it is not for lack of talent. Their work ethic is unsurpassed. All I know is this, there are many groups who have personnel who cannot be full time because they have to work during the week. This holds many groups back from the "circuit" and much needed exposure. In God's time it will all work out. That doesn't mean, however, that they are unsuccessful.
I would just like everyone here to know...I LOVE BIG MO!!!!...just had to add that. lol..there seems to be some resentment built up towards the ECC for some reason, and everyone is so quick to criticize...I mean come on, it was hilarious,and it did exactly what it was meant to do...draw attention to both parties....and obviously it did, because the people that have critizied it the most have answered this board way more than one time..hmmm, somethin to think about huh?
Surprised,
I might think more of your criticism should you have the courage to put yout name on your post. I take all of the nameless posts with a grain of salt.
Deon Unthank
SoGospelNews.com
My Blog
Some people are like Slinkys… Not really good for anything, but they
still bring a smile to your face when you push them down a flight of stairs - Author Unknown
Deon, and staff,
and all of the ECC supporters.
Thanks for taking a stand for ECC. It's because of EDDIE CROOK, JANICE CROOK, and DAVE WILCOX, that I even have a ministry today. It was their faith in me in the beginning that has kept me going all the years. I say GOD bless ECC. If the critics knew what I know, perhaps they wouldn't be so critical.
Keep your eyes open and just watch what God does with this company. I promise you, ECC is not going down. They have taken a short rest, regrouped, and now...well, just watch!
And while you're watching, you might think about praying about some of the bitterness and resentment.
Now I'm done.
But ECC is NOT!!!
I just signed a contract for my group with ECC. And I am looking forward to the future with them. Before signing I did my homework and spoke to Artist who had been with the company and artist who were with him now, and everyone I spoke with told me of how much respect they have for this company. I don't see how you can honestly say a company with groups like the Wilburns, Big Mo, Hissong, New Ground, Naomi and the Segos, and the New Speers is going down. I feel very honored and blessed to be with the same company as these wonderful talented people. Some of the negative posters on this thread I have noticed are always negative when they post so to them I would like to introduce a word ZOLOFT get to know it.
I am one of Eddie Crooks newest artist. I am not known to any of you, but that does not mean that I do not have a lot of talent. The problem today is that Southern Gospel Music Fans do not welcome new talent so easy. The radio industry does not as well. I visted many Gospel stations last week to promote my mew CD. One of the biggest stations in my area would not even think about playing my songs because I am not one of the big names. They only play about the same 10 or so groups all of the time. I even won first place in thier talent search and cannot get on their play list. As I stated before just because I am not a know artist on the Eddie Crook label does not mean that I have no talent. I have been compared to Janet Pascal and Sherry Easter and have been told that by many people in the record field that I was just as good as they were, some said better. I am not trying to toot my horn. It is just that there is a lot of very annointed and undiscovered talent that will never get a chance. One thing I do agree with you all on is, that He does have to many artist on his label. If you are not that established, I feel that he does not spend as much time with you and you may not get the best of quality out of a project. In other terms what I mean is, you may be exceptionally talented but may not get the material to show your best talent. It all boils down to money. On the other hand I had some other well establish record companies to seek my business without me contacting them and I still have some contacting me for business(imagine that a no name getting contacts from record companies) I chose Mr. Crook because Dave Wilcox is a very pleasant person to work with.
We should be doing it to honor and Glorify our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is a shame it has become a money hungry business. If I do not make it in this cruel world of Southern Gospel Music, my neighbors will still enjoy my free practice concerts. God Bless each of You and Please pray for the music ministry that The Lord has allowed me to use.
I just love the fact that when I post one comment, many pages follow. EDDIE - HIRE ME.
'hype'
I know there are some great artists on this label. It's mysterious to me why a company would engage in such 'corny' marketing concepts.
With the 'brain trust' that is currently at this company you would have thought that they would have been busy coming up with real effective marketing concepts that really show the strengths of their artists rather than 'hee-haw' type humor. I would hate to see this kind of thing becoming a trend in our industry - where everybody is trying to think "what would Jeff Foxworthy do to promote my group / single"!
I wish them the best, but I have to imagine that some of their sincere artists are not amused.
Mike Pillow
http://www.lampmusic.com
Let's see, Mr. Lamp Music, isn't this hype?
"Even though the site has only been up for about 1 week, the Lamp offices have been flooded with e-mails and compliments." (taken from a recent press release)
Flooded? really? It's a mystery to me. Did you see that log within your own eye?
It looks to me like an industry insider prank went awry. It also appears that it brought out the worst in some of the SG music listeners. My question is, why pull such a prank in the first place when it is going to confuse a number of newbies to SG Music?
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