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I recently spoke with Mike and Tracie Brazell, of the Brazells, from Johnston, SC. This fine family group has been around for 17 years, and they are picking up steam to forge ahead in the ministry that God has given them. Seventeen years ago the group consisted of Thomas and Ramona Brazell, singing Bass and Alto, their son Mike, playing the drums Favion Proveaux singing lead, and Chris Proveaux singing the Baritone. The years have brought a few changes, and the group now consists of Thomas and Ramona still at their positions, but they have added their daughter-in-law Tracie as keyboard player and soprano singer, and Nancy Jo Center as the Lead singer. Tracie was quick to tell me that they are unique in that they have an "almost" all girl band. Stacy is on the keyboards, Kristy Rhoden is playing the lead guitar, ad of course Mike is the non-girl on the drums.
The Brazells would describe themselves as mostly a traditional Southern Gospel sound, with a touch of some country to them. Mike said that he sings one bluegrass song, but Tracie said that didn't count. I didn't want to cause any family problems, so I moved on with the interview.
Though they sing some older hymns and classics, Tracie has been blessed with songwriting, so most of their material comes from her pen.
While they are comfortable in either the church or concert setting, the church is most natural for them. Why? Mostly because their ministry can shine more in the church setting. They couldn't think of a denomination that they hadn't sung in, especially through the southeastern part of the country, though they also sing a lot in Florida, Illinois, and Ohio .
They usually record at Rushing Winds Studio, but are Independent as far as the Label goes. They are very proud of their latest single release to radio. It's a song penned by Kyla Rowland, a fair writer herself, who knows she may get a hit one of these days, "The Blood of an Old Rugged Cross." This song is touching lives everywhere they sing.
In terms of a short range goal, they want to stay focused on ministry and staying in the center of God's will. They have learned to be content in where they are, but not satisfied with what they are doing. They always strive to do better at the ministry God has given them.
I asked if there was any place that they haven't sang yet that they would like to. Mike said they'd love to sing at the Albert E. Brumley Sing, and at the Lesters Meramac Caverns Concert.
Tracie said she would love for them to sing at a Billy Graham Crusade. I have to admit that all of those places are great choices.
When asked about the worst thing that ever happened to them, Mike replied that on stage a Bill Bailey concert, Tracie bumped the keyboard setup by Perrys pianist Justin Ellis, and it fell off the stand during their first song. He said that Justin didn't care though because he still takes credit for setting Mike and Tracy up on their first date.
If they could say anything to the many fans reading this interview, they would like the fans to pray for them that they could always sing a song that will minister to the fans.
If you haven't yet met The Brazells, now is as good a time as any.
Reader Comments
If you haven't been to a Brazell's concert, I strongly recommend you go next time you have an opportunity. You will surely be blessed!!
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Written: 02/29/2004 
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