SGN Scoops Digital

Gold City Announces Changes

When 2010 began, Gold City introduced a new line-up of familiar faces with the addition of tenor Josh Cobb and pianist Roy Webb. As mentioned in the earliest days of this re-organization of the quartet, Roy was  on board in a temporary role to help develop Gold City’s future plans. During this time, Roy maintained a schedule of selected solo dates, with the intentions of one day returning to a full-time solo career.

That day has arrived, and Gold City is searching a for a new pianist. Anyone interested in being a part of a 30-year ministry is encouraged to send a resume and demo to Gold City, Attn: Jason R. Maise, P.O. Box 2100, Gadsden, AL 35903 or via email at jasonrmaise@yahoo.com.

“It has been a pleasure to be involved with Gold City,” says Roy. “I wish them much success and I believe they are truly one of Southern Gospel music’s all-time great quartets.
However my heart is in my solo efforts and that’s where I feel I need to be. So it is time to make the move.” Roy’s scheduling will be handled through The Beckie Simmons Agency.

“We wish for nothing but the best for Roy,” adds Gold City’s Daniel Riley. “Roy’s contributions to this group have been numerous and they are greatly appreciated. In the meantime,
we look forward to the next person God will put in our path. We’re excited about what may lie ahead for us.”

Personal appearances for Gold City are also scheduled through The Beckie Simmons Agency (www.bsaworld.com).

2nd Generation Announces Addition of Jonathan Edwards to Group

OAK GROVE, Ark. – Diamond Award winning trio 2nd Generation is excited to announce the addition of Jonathan Edwards as the group’s new vocalist.

“We are so excited about bringing Jonathan on as our new singer,” mentioned Brenda Denney of 2nd Generation. “Jonathan has been a long time supporter of the group and is very familiar with our ministry and musical style. We know that he is going to do a great job, and we can’t wait to hit the road with him!”

Jonathan is known well in Southern Gospel circles. In addition to making a name for himself for several years as a part of the Ascension Quartet, Jonathan is one of Southern Gospel’s most beloved DJs. He works as the drive-time DJ for KWFC-FM in Springfield, Missouri every week.

Jonathan Edwards said, “I have become such great friends with Brenda and Elaine over the last few years. When this position came open, I was excited about possibly working with these ladies on a full-time basis. We’ve got some exciting things planned for the near future, and I can’t wait to be a part of it!”

Jonathan is filling the position that was recently vacated by Jimmy Hoskins. Jimmy left the group to pursue a new ministry with his family.

Jonathan will join 2nd Generation on the road starting this weekend.

Fans are encouraged to be listening for 2nd Generation’s new single, “I’ll Not Fear the Crossing,” at Southern Gospel radio.

For more information on 2nd Generation – visit http://www.2ndgenerationministries.com.

You can also find out more information about the group on their MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/2generation.  The group’s ShoutLife can be found at http://www.shoutlife.com/2ndgeneration.

Joe Loaring Joins Faithful Crossings

CLERMONT, Fla. – Florida-based family group Faithful Crossings is pleased to announce the addition of Joe Loaring to the group. Joe will be singing the baritone part for the group.

Joe has been very active in ministry since rededicating his life to the Lord seven years ago. In addition to his work with Faithful Crossings, Joe works full-time at Lighthouse Ministries – a local homeless shelter.

“Joe has a great heart for ministry – and that is just the kind of person we were looking for,” mentioned Tammy Sumner of Faithful Crossings. “He’s a talented singer, and we can’t wait for our friends to hear him with us!”

Joe will be joining the group immediately. You can find out more information on him at the group’s website – http://www.faithfulcrossings.com .

Faithful Crossings will be featured on the television show Atlanta Live on Atlanta’s WATC this weekend. More information on that will be released later.

More information on Faithful Crossings can be found at their webpage – http://www.faithfulcrossings.com.  You can also visit their MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/faithfulcrossings.

For booking information – call Arnie Shipp and AWS Management at (864) 981-5811.

About Faithful Crossings
Faithful Crossings is a Southern Gospel ministry based in central Florida. At the heart of the ministry is Tammy Sumner, former member of the acclaimed all-women’s Southern Gospel quartet, Sweetwater Revival.  Tammy is joined by her husband Curtis Sumner and children Taylor and Lauren as well as new group members Al Mercer and Lisa Nielsen.

2nd Generation Announces Departure of Jimmy Hoskins

OAK GROVE, Ark. – (June 8, 2010) – Diamond Award nominated trio 2nd Generation regretfully announces the departure of group member Jimmy Hoskins from the group. Jimmy has been an integral part of the ministry of 2nd Generation for over three years.

“After much prayer and consideration, it is my belief that God is calling my wife and I in a different direction in pursuit of a family music ministry,” said Jimmy.  “We have been so very blessed to be able to have been a part of this incredible group for the last three years, and we have been a witness to a mighty move of God in our personal lives as well as in the altars.  I have nothing but the best wishes for 2nd Generation and am praying that God continue to pour out His blessings in their ministry as well as guide and lead our family in the direction He has purposed for us.”

Brenda Denney of 2nd Generation said, “We know that our ministry has been extremely blessed to be able to utilize a talent like Jimmy for the last three years. Elaine and I wish Jimmy and his wife Sharon the absolute best in this new family music ministry! We know that God will continue to use them in a mighty way for His kingdom! We will miss our ‘Jimmy Jam’!”

“We are excited for what God has done and what He is doing in 2nd Generation Ministries,” continued 2nd Generation’s Elaine Parks.  “We are about ministry! We know that we have been called for ‘such a time as this,’ and we know that He has someone already picked out to join 2nd Generation.”

Jimmy will stay with 2nd Generation through the months of June and July or until a replacement is found in those months. The group is still planning to record their follow-up to the breakthrough recording I See a City later this year.

2nd Generation is currently reviewing resumes and CDs for the position. Those interested in auditioning for the position can email Brenda Denney at secondg@yahoo.com or call (913) 710-5227.

Fans are encouraged to be listening for 2nd Generation’s new single, “I’ll Not Fear the Crossing,” at Southern Gospel radio.

For more information on 2nd Generation – visit http://www.2ndgenerationministries.com.

You can also find out more information about the group on their MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/2generation.  The group’s ShoutLife can be found at http://www.shoutlife.com/2ndgeneration.

Dale Forbes Returns To The Anchormen

Nashville, TN (June 4, 2010) – The Anchormen are thrilled to announce the return of Dale Forbes to the group.  Forbes sang with the quartet for three years in the 90’s. He stepped away to answer a call to preach.  While he and his family are grateful for that season, they have tremendous peace about his return to the road.

Forbes will be singing lead for the quartet.  He joins them on the heels of their 30^th Anniversary in Gospel music.  He will be replacing Michael Bartlett, who will be transitioning from music ministry to church ministry.

“We are extremely happy and supportive of Michael as he accepts this calling to serve in church ministry,” expressed group’s owner, Tim Bullins. “Dale and I have remained such good friends over the years. When he told me he felt God was leading him to return to the Anchormen, I couldn’t have been happier. I know fans will appreciate his solid talent and his heart for God. His charisma both on and off stage will definitely be something audiences will enjoy. Dale was a big hit at the 30-year reunion last year and people will be quick to see his talent is stronger than ever.”

In addition to being a pastor for the last 14 years, Forbes has been teaching at the renowned Steve Hurst School Of Music for the past 5 years.  He shared, “God has been so good to me and my family. We have appreciated every ministry opportunity we have experienced, but for me to have the blessing of returning to the road after 15 years away, to live out my heart for music ministry and for people, is a dream.  I am so thankful to have pastored the church God brought to our lives for 14 years, but I am also grateful for the times He speaks to redirect us to a new season.  I look forward to seeing all my friends on the road and to making many new ones too.”

Forbes will make his first appearance back with the group on July 9, 2010 in Asheboro, NC.

To learn more about the Anchomen or to schedule them for your church or concert event, visit theanchormen.com.

Three Bridges Debuts New Line-Up at Flood Relief Benefit Concert

Buzz Continues to Build for Group with Industry and Fans Alike!

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Exciting trio and Homeland Entertainment recording artist Three Bridges took part in a special Nashville Flood Relief benefit concert this past weekend. The group debuted its new line-up at the special event.

Elliott McCoy of Three Bridges said, “Three Bridges was honored to be a part of such a special program. Not only was this a great event for the group to get behind, but we were thrilled to debut our new line-up at the concert as well!”

It was announced earlier this month that celebrated vocalists Shannon Smith and Jeremie Hudson would be joining the popular trio. A large portion of those in attendance came to hear the group, and the audience response was tremendous after the group performed.

“I have received dozens of emails from people in attendance at the concert,” Elliott continued. “We received so many positive comments from friends, fans, industry workers, and more! We really feel like this is an exciting new season for the group, and we are expecting great things in our future.”

Deon Unthank of AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) was in attendance during the concert and said, “This new group is really exceptional. Their chemistry both on and off stage makes them an artist to continue to watch in this industry. Three Bridges seems to be on the right path. They are destined to touch a lot of lives through their ministry and music!”

In addition to Three Bridges, several of Southern Gospel’s brightest names appeared at the special Flood Relief benefit concert this past Friday evening, May 14, 2010. The event was designed to help raise funds to aid in relief from the devastating floods that hit Nashville and other Middle Tennessee communities earlier this month.

Other artists that participated in the event included Palmetto State Quartet, Sunday Edition, Men of Music, Freedom, Dianne Sherrill, The Sargents, Firm Foundation Quartet, Allen Frizzell, Angelina McKeithen, The Songfellows, Mystery Men Quartet, Jeremy Calloway, and Southern Salvation. Award-winning Country singer Naomi Judd served as the special guest emcee for the program as well.

Three Bridges recently scored their latest Top 10 hit according to the April 2010 issue of the Singing News Top 80 chart. “It Took His Breath Away,” from the Homeland Records release Another Blessing peaked #10 last month.  The song has also been a regular fixture on the AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) Top 40 Weekly Chart, Christian Voice Magazine Top 100, SouthernGospelTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart, and other charts.

For more information on Three Bridges, visit them on the web at http://www.threebridges.net or http://www.homelandentertainmentgroup.com . Three Bridges will also be a regular featured artist on the upcoming national television program “Brush Arbor Jubilee” as will be shown on numerous networks and local cable markets nationwide.

Derrick Selph To Return As Brian Free & Assurance’s Baritone

Hendersonville, TN (May 12, 2010) –  Brian Free & Assurance is pleased to announce the return of Derrick Selph to the group’s baritone position.  Derrick is thrilled to get back serving God singing Gospel music with BFA.

Derrick will be making his first return appearance on May 20th. Brian Free expressed, “Derrick has been off the road since July of last year.  He says he’s ready to come back for good and we’re excited to have him back.”

Randy Crawford will be leaving the group on May 16^th.

To learn more about Brian Free & Assurance, visit, www.brianfreeandassurance.com. For further information regarding the Daywind family of artists, visit www.daywindrecords.com.

Editor’s Note: You can also read about Brian Free & Assurance in the March 2010 issue of SGN Scoops

Gospel River Boys Annouce Name Change, New Lead Singer`

The Hallmark Quartet

“Hallmark”- a mark or symbol of genuineness or high quality!

The Gospel River Boys are excited about the things that are happening with the group!  We are starting a clean slate with the group such as our new lead singer, Mark Flaker, he has been blessed to have been with several great groups such as the Singing Americans, The Florida Boys, The Bibletones and The Mysterymen.  Also we are changing our name, and we have had a lot of prayers in this, to The Hallmark Quartet a non profit corporation.  Also we are selling our bus and buying  a lot newer entertainers bus and hiring on a experienced bus driver, Harold “Slim” Pickens.  We are excited about this and we are stepping up how we sing and what we are doing for the Lord.  So we would appreciate any positive Comments from you about this changes and always your prayers.  We are looking forward to singing at your concert or at your church.

From you Brothers in Christ,

Gary,Jerry,Jim, Mark

Calvary’s Hill Quartet Names New Lead Singer

(Fayetteville, NC) – Southern gospel quartet, Calvary’s Hill Quartet, has named Robert “Rocky” Smith as the new lead singer for the quartet. Smith, better known as Rocky to his friends, hails from Greensboro, NC. He has a long history in gospel music having started playing with The Easter Brothers years ago as a child. For years, known more for his musicianship than for his singing, Smith sang both lead and baritone with other groups. Calvary’s Hill will capitalize on Smith’s ability as a musician, and utilize him with the group as both a pianist and lead singer. A father of three, Smith is married to Gail who encourages him to sing, even though it does mean he’s gone from home at inconvenient times. Smith’s first appearance with the quartet was April 18, 2010, in Winston-Salem, NC..

Group owner, Roger Wendell, said, “… we are really excited about the new direction and opportunities that this multi-talented individual will allow us to take. Rocky has been involved with gospel music virtually his entire life. An awesome musician, Rocky not only sings but plays piano, harmonica, drums, banjo, bass guitar, and just about anything else with strings on it.”

“I am very thankful to have an opportunity to play, sing, and minister with Calvary’s Hill Quartet,” said Smith. “I pray I continue to feel God leading me and hear His voice.”

Calvary’s Hill Quartet, formed in 2006, by Wendell, and based in Fayetteville, NC, travels well beyond the borders of North Carolina sharing their traditional, 4-part, male harmony where invited. Group members are Wendell, bass, Jerry Downey, baritone, Smith, lead, and Eric Nance, tenor.

Wendell handles the booking for the group, and is assisted by baritone, Jerry Downey. The group may be contacted by phone at 910-924-0705. For more information on, and photos of, Calvary’s Hill Quartet, or to hear clips by the group, visit http://www.calvaryshillquartet.com

Three Bridges Names Shannon Smith New Lead Singer

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Celebrated trio and Homeland Entertainment recording artist Three Bridges is proud to announce the addition of Shannon Smith to the group. Smith, who joins the group immediately, will assume the position of lead singer for the exciting trio.

Shannon Smith is no stranger to the Gospel music stage. Smith was the lead vocalist for Grammy Award-winning and GMA Hall of Fame Inductees The Imperials for many years. During his tenure with The Imperials, Smith was nominated for Male Vocalist of the Year in the 2008 SGN Music Awards and was a part of the Album of the Year winning Back to the Roots project. Shannon also had a successful solo ministry for many years and has served as a Pastor. He most recently was a worship leader at a church in North Miami, Florida.

“When I left the road 2 years ago, I really needed some time to get away and just focus on the Lord, His Word and my family,” mentioned Shannon.  “Our time in the Miami area accomplished just that – it was almost like a sabbatical. We have prayed over this decision for several months, and I am filled with excitement and expectation as I join Elliott McCoy and Three Bridges. I look forward to helping Three Bridges continue to share the goodness and love of Jesus in every way possible.”

Smith is replacing Scott Johnson as the lead singer for the popular trio. Johnson is leaving the road due to health reasons.

Elliott McCoy of Three Bridges said, “Scott was a fantastic addition to our group, and we were saddened when he had to leave the group. However, we knew that God sent us Scott, and God would send us a replacement for him as well. Shannon is one of the most talented vocalists I have ever heard. He adds his own unique flair to these songs, and we can not wait for our friends to get to know him and his family.”

Three Bridges recently scored their latest Top 10 hit according to the April 2010 issue of the Singing News Top 80 chart. “It Took His Breath Away,” from the Homeland Records release Another Blessing, currently sits at #10 this month.  The song has also been a regular fixture on the AbsolutelyGospel.com (formerly SoGospelNews.com) Top 40 Weekly Chart, Christian Voice Magazine Top 100, SouthernGospelTimes.com Top 40 Fan Chart, and other charts.

For more information on Three Bridges, visit them on the web at http://www.threebridges.net or http://www.homelandentertainmentgroup.com . Three Bridges will also be a regular featured artist on the upcoming national television program “Brush Arbor Jubilee” as will be shown on numerous networks and local cable markets nationwide.