SGN Scoops Digital

David East Receives Two Golden Heart Awards

Gatlinburg, TN (December 8, 2012) – During the 2012 CGMA (Country Gospel Music Association) International Convention, held October 22, 2012 through October 27, 2012, David East received two Golden heart awards, namely: Favorite Artist of the Year, Promoter of the Year, and the Band of the Year award, given to the HeartsAFire! band, for which he played keyboard. Ballots were cast throughout the week-long event by the members in attendance.

“It’s such an honor to receive these awards, especially since the votes for each one came from my peers in the music industry”, said David. “It doesn’t happen very often, but I’m left speechless. These folks welcomed me into their organization with such hospitality.”

The CGMA awards process, which occurs each year at the Divisional level and at the International level, is not designed to create a competition between the artists; but rather as a means of encouraging and lifting up CGMA artists and members.

David says, “Each night before the ballots were cast, CGMA President Billy Hale led those in attendance in prayer, asking God to guide their hands as they voted for the ones who needed it most. I was most impressed by that, and to see the looks on the faces of those who were not expecting to receive an award was wonderful.”

You can learn more about the County Gospel Music Association at their website, http://www.countrygospelmusic.com. You can learn more about David East at his website, http://www.davideast.net, or at his Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/DavidWEast.

About David East: David East developed his love for music at the age of 8 years old, singing in his home church and at school functions. This love for music led him to first learn to play the guitar, taking weekly lessons for a year and eventually increasing his ability through self-instruction and study. Early in his life, David exhibited a strong ear for music, excelling in both instrumental and vocal performance. David has learned to play a total of 13 instruments, but he’s best known for is his piano and keyboard work. Always a fan favorite, once the big man gets behind the piano you know that you’re in for a wealth of good music and entertainment. His playing is a mixture of several different styles presented with his own flair.

About the CGMA: The Country Gospel Music Association (CGMA) began in 1996 and has been dedicated to ministry since its creation. While the CGMA appreciates the music business, and for the sake of its members, does whatever possible to advance the cause of the Country Gospel genre, CGMA believes every Christian artist should be totally committed to the Everlasting Kingdom of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ (II Peter 1:11) and have as their chief priority, blessing the heart of God. When the song is used as a vehicle for the Savior, it is honored of the Father and may also achieve success within the industry; but the glitter of the music business should never be our objective.

USAGEM 9th Annual Award Winners Announced

Rhonda Mitchell-Frye Receives Coveted Lou Hildreth Award

{EHA-Nashville} SGNScoops Editor in Chief, Rhonda Mitchell-Frye, of Ringgold, GA took home the coveted Lou Hildreth Award presented at the Diamond Awards Ceremony last week during the Creekside Gospel Music Convention. The multi-talented, minister, speaker, performer, and worship leader who is known for her servant’s heart, is no stranger to the Southern Gospel arena. She is multi-awarded for her songwriting talent and performances with NACMI in several catergories, including; “Most Promising Album of the Year,” “Most Promising Songwriter of the Year,”and  ”Horizon Female Vocalist of the Year.” Rhonda’s heart for the ministry is evident as Associate and Worship Pastor at Rock Pointe Church and as she teaches “Mini-Music”-a preschool music/movement program. Rhonda’s music ministry includes a diverse and progressive program that appeals to Southern Gospel, Praise and Worship, and Contemporary music fans. Lou Hildreth notes, “At the 2012 Diamond Awards, a very special young lady was presented the ‘Lou Hildreth Award’ in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the gospel music industry.  It is my privilege each year to designate the recipient of this award, and Rhonda Frye, the dynamic young  Editor-In-Chief of SGN Scoops, is without question the right choice.  Rhonda demonstrates her love for Gospel music in total dedication to the artists and the industry.   She has made excellent progress in broadening the interest in Gospel music, our shared passion, and keeps expanding the influence.  It was indeed a special thrill to present the “Lou Hildreth Award” to the fabulous Rhonda Frye.” Rhonda Frye notes, “I am so honored and humbled to have received the ‘Lou Hildreth Award.’ Lou has been a true example of what it means to dedicate one’s life to this amazing and blessed music. I am dedicated to carrying this torch forward and holding up the standard that Lou has set before us. Lou cannot be duplicated, but she can certainly be a role-model for all of us who aspire to carry out God’s plan in Gospel Music! Contact Rhonda: http://rhondafrye.com/    http://www.facebook.com/rhonda.m.frye?fref=ts For more info on Lou Wills-Hildreth   www.louhildreth.com

DIAMOND AWARDS HONORS VETERAN GOSPEL SOLOIST

Nashville, TN November 13, 2012-  October 29-31 marked the 1^st Annual Creekside Gospel Music Convention held in Pigeon Forge, TN.  The convention, in conjunction with SGN Scoops Digital magazine, served as host to the fan voted Diamond Awards.  Through various nomination and voting rounds, Ann Downing was among the top five finalists for the award going into the awards ceremony on October 30^th.

“You’re kidding.” were Ann’s first words upon hearing her name announced as the winner.  She went on to say, “I never thought I’d win!  I just came to support the cause.”

During her impromptu acceptance speech, Downing shared her desire to lend her talents to gospel music’s history, “I love this music.  Singing gospel music was my dream, and I have sung with some of the best.  I want make sure I do all I can to preserve the heritage for generations to come.  Thank you to everyone who voted.”  Downing’s career began with The Speer Family, continued with The Downing’s where she became only the second Female Vocalist of the Year in the history of the Dove Awards, and continues today in her solo ministry which encompasses both singing and speaking.

2012 DIAMOND AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT CREEKSIDE GOSPEL MUSIC CONVENTION

SEATTLE, Wa.(November 8, 2012) – SGN Scoops presented the 2012 Diamond Awards
at the inaugural Creekside Gospel Music Convention on October 30 at Pigeon Forge,
Tennessee. The awards ceremony was hosted by Daniel Ball of the Ball Brothers along
with singer/songwriter Christy Sutherland and graced with such talent as Gerald and
Jason Crabb, Jeff and Sheri Easter, Phil Stacey, Crosby Lane, David Bryan and Watts,
Rowsey and Bean and several others.

“The Diamond Awards was a wonderful time of uplifting and encouraging the talented
artists in Christian music,” said Rob Patz, CEO of Coastal Media Group and publisher
of SGN Scoops. “We were honored by incredible performances by all of our featured
artists, as well as great hosting by Christy and Daniel. It’s always an event geared to the
appreciation of our Gospel music friends, but more than that, it’s a time of worship to
God, the Giver of all of our talents. We can’t wait until next year!”

Winners of the 2012 Diamond Awards:
J.D. SUMNER LIVING LEGEND AWARD: Ann Downing
MIXED GROUP OF THE YEAR: The Isaacs
QUARTET OF THE YEAR: Gaither Vocal Band
TRIO OF THE YEAR: The Booth Brothers
DUET OF THE YEAR: Wilburn and Wilburn
FEMALE SOLOIST OF THE YEAR: Janet Paschal
MALE SOLOIST OF THE YEAR: Jason Crabb
SUNRISE AWARD: Beyond the Ashes
SONG OF THE YEAR: “Hear My Heart”, Artist: Jeff and Sheri Easter, Written By:
Sheri Easter, Wayne Haun and Joel Lindsey
ALBUM OF THE YEAR: The Song Lives On, Artist: Jason Crabb
CHRISTIAN COUNTRY GROUP OF THE YEAR: The Isaacs

CHRISTIAN COUNTRY FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR: Christy Sutherland
CHRISTIAN COUNTRY MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR: Guy Penrod
CHRISTIAN COUNTRY ALBUM OF THE YEAR: Breathe Deep, Artist: Guy Penrod
ANTHONY BURGER INSTRUMENTALIST OF THE YEAR: Gordon Mote
DOTTIE RAMBO SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR: Gerald Crabb
BLUEGRASS GOSPEL ARTIST OF THE YEAR: The Isaacs
VIDEO/DVD OF THE YEAR: Bill and Gloria Gaither Present: Tent Rival Homecoming,
Gaither Homecoming Series
FAVORITE ARTIST WEBSITE: Gaither.com
FAVORITE INDUSTRY WEBSITE: Gospel Music Today, Ken and Jean Grady
PAUL HEIL AWARD (Broadcasting): Jonathan Edwards
PUBLISHER’S CHOICE AWARD: Lou Hildreth
LOU HILDRETH AWARD: Rhonda Frye and Patricia Mathis

About Creekside Gospel Music Convention: Creekside Gospel Music Convention
held it’s inaugural event at the Smokey Mountain Convention Center, Pigeon Forge,
Tennessee from October 29 through 31, 2012. The CGMC is presented by SGN
Scoops and Coastal Media Group at Pigeon Forge and is the home of The Diamond
Awards and other special events. Next year’s dates are October 28, 29 and 30th,
2013. For more information on Creekside Gospel Music Convention visit http://
www.creeksidegospelmusicconvention.com/

About SGNScoops: SGNScoops Digital is a fully-downloadable monthly magazine that
exists to promote the gospel by unveiling what is intriguing and real about Southern
Gospel and Christian Country music. SGNScoops offers music news and views as
well as concert and book reviews, inspirational articles and features reaching beyond
our gospel music world. SGNScoops is the home of the Diamond Awards, a fan-based
annual awards program recognizing the best in Southern Gospel and Christian Country
music. SGN Scoops is always digital, always free. For more information: http://
www.sgnscoops.com/

Christy Sutherland And Daniel Ball To Host 2012 Diamond Awards

Seattle, WA (October 24, 2012) –SGN Scoops is excited to announce the hosts for the 2012 Diamond Awards at Creekside Gospel Music Convention, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Singer/songwriter Christy Sutherland and Daniel Ball of the Ball Brothers will be hosting the Awards gala on Tuesday, October 30^th. The Diamond Awards is a free event, featuring performances by Crosby Lane, The Ball Brothers, Phil Stacey and Gerald Crabb, along with other exiting artists. Sutherland and Ball will be joined by other special presenters to announce the winners of the prestigious Diamond Awards.

“Three of my favorite things are: singing, comedy and fishing,” says Daniel Ball. “I’ve never figured out how to combine all three until now. I am thrilled for the opportunity to help host the Diamond Awards at the Creekside Gospel Music Convention.  The Ball Brothers will be performing and I’m sure we’ll get some humor into the awards show, whether it’s planned or not. No one has said anything about fishing, but I figure where there is a creek, there are fish! This will be a lot of fun.”

Christy Sutherland, a Diamond Award nominee, is also looking forward to Creekside Gospel Music Convention. “I am honored to be hosting the Diamond Awards for the third year in a row! I am especially looking forward to celebrating the Diamond Awards in the beautiful Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.” Sutherland adds, “Pigeon Forge will always have a special place in my heart, as that is where my husband and I spent most of our courtship. It’s a beautiful town tucked away in the Smoky Mountains and has always been a hot bed for great Southern Gospel and Christian Country music. I can’t wait to see so many of my friends in the music business be recognized for their talents and ministries!”

“I’m excited to have such exceptional talent as hosts for the 2012 Diamond Awards,” says Rob Patz, CEO of Coastal Media Group and publisher of SGN Scoops. “Christy always does a phenomenal job and I’m sure our audience will enjoy the addition of Daniel to the program. I’m looking forward to this great evening of wonderful music and being able to recognize the amazing artists that are in our industry.”

Creekside Gospel Music Convention will be held at the Smokey Mountain Convention Center, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee from October 29 through 31, 2012. All events are free, including morning chapel, afternoon matinees and evening performances, as well as the exhibit hall. The 75^th Anniversary Celebration of Lou Hildreth will be the focus on Monday, October 29. The 2012 Diamond Awards will be held on October 30 and October 31 is Family Night. For more information on Creekside Gospel Music Convention visit http://www.creeksidegospelmusicconvention.com/

Rooms are available at the hotel on site for just $54 per night. Reservations can be made by phone or online. By phone, call toll-free at Toll Free: 1-800-223-6707 or local call 865-908-3015. Online Reservations- go to

http://www.smokymountainconventioncenter.com/.
Click “Book My Room” then Click “SGN Scoops.”

For more information, email rob@sgnscoops.com or rhonda@sgnscoops.com.

THE ROYS Take Home ICM Bluegrass Artist of the Year Award For Second Consecutive Year

Nashville, TN (October 19, 2012) — THE ROYS have been named Inspirational Country Music’s Bluegrass Artist of the Year for 2012, giving them back-to-back wins in this category.  “We sing what is in our hearts and true to our Faith,” comments Elaine Roy.  ”It was a very strong group of nominees – everyone deserved this award,” notes her brother Lee.  ”Elaine and I are so honored to win this for the second year in a row.”  THE ROYS were named the organization’s Bluegrass Artist of the Year in 2011 and Duo of the Year in 2010 and 2009.

The brother/sister duo kicked off the 20th Anniversary Faith, Family & Country™ Awards Show with a performance of the title track from their current EP, NEW DAY DAWNING (Rural Rhythm).  The disc debuted at Number 2 on the Billboard Bluegrass Albums Chart in early September and two weeks later had risen to Number 1 on Amazon’s Bluegrass Best Sellers list.

Last night’s Awards ceremony was hosted by Inside Edition’s Megan Alexander and GAC’s Storme Warren and held at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville.  THE ROYS shared the stage with luminaries Mac Powell (Third Day), Andy Griggs, John Berry, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver and more.  The nationally-televised program aired on TCT Television Network, Total Living Network, NRB Network and Golden Eagle Broadcasting.  Fans should check local listings for repeat air dates and times.  Nashvillians can view the show on WKRN-TV (Channel 2) on December 23.

Music lovers can follow Lee and Elaine online at THEROYSonline, FACEBOOK and on Twitter @theroysonline.

Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver Honored as ICM Vocal Group of the Year

NASHVILLE (October 20, 2012) — Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver were presented with the prestigious Vocal Group or Band of the Year Award at the 18th Annual Inspirational Country Music Awards on Thursday night at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in downtown Nashville.

Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver (DLQ) performed “God Can” on the ICM Awards Show, with their famed signature harmony ringing beautifully true in a facility known for its amazing acoustics. DLQ performed just after Chuck Hancock was presented with Male Vocalist of the Year honors and shortly before a powerful performance by John Berry of “Hard to Sing the Blues.” 

The Inspirational Country Music Association’s honor comes on the heels of Lawson’s induction into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium in late September. Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver have multiple Grammy, Dove, IBMA and SPBGMA nominations, have released nearly 40 albums, and are seven-time winners of IBMA’s Vocal Group of the Year.

“Doyle is legendary in both bluegrass and gospel genres,” said Bob Cherry of Cybergrass, “and he frequently mixes them to deliver something special.”

A special evening it was for Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver as they took home their first ICM trophy, an exquisite etched glass creation, in a ceremony whose other nominees included country artists such as Alan Jackson, Josh Turner and Vince Gill, and bluegrass artists such as Ricky Skaggs, Rhonda Vincent, The Roys and the Isaacs.

Of the evening, Doyle Lawson said:

“What an honor it was to receive the ICM Vocal Group/Band of the Year Award last night at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville.  We performed at the event last year, and I was most impressed with the focus on God, Family and Country.  Special thanks to Gene Higgins, his son Jason, and the entire ICMA staff for their hard work and dedication to the cause.  Also thanks to all the participating artists for making us feel welcome and at ease. And congratulations to all of the other winners last night! May God bless all of you in your efforts to spread the good news of the gospel in song and spoken word.”

Doyle Lawson’s award-winning band includes Mike Rogers (guitar/vocals), Corey Hensley (bass/vocals), Josh Swift (dobro/vocals), Joe Dean (banjo), Jason Barie (fiddle) and Kevin McKinnon (sound engineer).

Lawson and his band returned to the studio on Friday, continuing to lay down tracks for their upcoming eagerly-anticipated album release scheduled for early 2013.

For a complete list of 2012 ICM Awards winners, please go to:  http://www.faithfamilycountry.com/?page_id=677

For more information on Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, please go to:  www.doylelawson.com   and  https://www.facebook.com/doylelawsonofficial?ref=hl.

Photo and Story Credits:

Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver – ICM’s newly awarded Vocal Group/Band of the Year- Story by Sherri George

Photo: L to R:  Jason Barie (fiddle), Josh Swift (dobro/vocals), Corey Hensley (bass/vocals), Doyle Lawson (mandolin/vocals), Mike Rogers (guitar/vocals), and Joe Dean (banjo). Photo by Sherri George.

Daywind Artists Shine At The 2012 Singing News Fan Awards

Hendersonville, TN (Oct. 4, 2012) –The Singing News held its annual Fan Awards, along with inductions to the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame, on Wednesday at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, TN. Daywind artists took home ten of the awards presented, with the Booth Brothers garnering seven of the awards.

Recipients included the Booth Brothers’ Ronnie Booth for Male Vocalist and Favorite Lead, Michael Booth for Favorite Tenor, and Jim Brady for Favorite Baritone. The Booth Brothers were also awarded Favorite Trio, Favorite Artist and Favorite Song of the Year with She Still Remembers Jesus’ Name. Libbi Stuffle (Perrys) received recognition as Favorite Alto of the Year while Rodney Griffin (Greater Vision) was once again named Songwriter of the Year for the 14th consecutive year. Wilburn and Wilburn received the Horizon Group of the Year award as well as Jordan Wilburn taking home Horizon Individual of the Year.

We are thankful for the opportunity to partner with such a talented and committed group of artists,” shares Norman Holland, Vice President and Director of A&R at Daywind. “The artists that we at Daywind have the privalage of working with are some of your favorite artists and we count it a joy to be a part of their ministries.”

The Singing News Fan Awards are voted upon each year by subscribers of the Singing Newsmagazine. The awards celebrated their third year at Dollywood, in conjunction with the SGMA inductions, after previously being held at Freedom Hall during the National Quartet Convention. For more information on the Singing News, visit www.singingnews.com. For more information on the Southern Gospel Music Association, visit www.sgma.org.

Daywind Records is based in Hendersonville, TN, and is distributed worldwide through New Day Christian Distributors. For more information on Daywind Records and their award-winning family of artists, visit www.daywindrecords.com.

National Quartet Convention Presents the NQC Music Awards

Louisville, KY – The National Quartet Convention, in partnership with the Southern Gospel Music Guild, presented the first ever NQC Music Awards today (Friday, September 14) at the NQC during the Friday afternoon Showcase Spectacular in Freedom Hall in Louisville, KY.