SGN Scoops Digital

SGNScoops Magazine Unveils New Reader-Friendly Format

Since 1996, SGNScoops has been a trusted source for Southern Gospel news and information. Founded by Dr. Allen Smith, the publication has seen a few changes over the years. SGNScoops Magazine was the first Southern Gospel print magazine to go to online-only publishing. Purchased by Coastal Media, owners of SGMRadio.com, SGNScoops Magazine was re-launched in 2009 with the goal of gaining more reader interaction and also with the intention of expanding readership.

Since 2009, SGNScoops has grown drastically in popularity and is now proud to unveil its newest design. Pete and Staci Schwager, graphic and layout designers of SGNScoops Magazine have collaborated with owner and publisher, Rob Patz in order to offer a “flip-page” reading method. The flip- page format is in addition to the regular PDF format the magazine is now known for.

“Carrying on the vision that Dr. Allen Smith created, I’m excited to release this new magazine format,” Rob Patz explains. “The flip-page is a quicker download and allows us to maintain our professional appearance that many have come to expect from SGNScoops Magazine. We are doing our best to keep up with the latest trends in emerging technology while maintaining a high level of professionalism.”

Editor in Chief, Rhonda Frye adds, “It is a pleasure to receive positive comments from artists, industry professionals and the general public. Over and over, we hear compliments about our beautiful design and our heart-felt stories. I’m thrilled that we are now offering SGNScoops Magazine in this new layout so that our readers can enjoy our monthly presentation in a much more reader -friendly format.”

Keeping up with the demands of society, SGNScoops Magazine is now a perfect fit for mobile devices and tablets such as iPhones, Kindles and iPads. The PDF file will still be available on sgnscoops.com for readers who prefer the scroll down method. The flip-page format is just another optional reading method that is now available from SGNScoops Magazine. Both formats are free.

Pilgrims & Prodigals: Annie Moses Band

Perspectives on Roaming, Redemption, and the Next Generation from the Annie Moses Band

By Scott Rhoades

Published December 2012

SGNScoops Magazine

 As the blazing sun cast its blistering glow across the dry and dusty plantation fields of Texas, a young woman arched upwards to a kneeling position, rested on her knees, and lifted an arm to wipe away the beading drops of sweat streaming down her bronzed and tarnished face. The Great Depression was a difficult time for most and survival was the priority of the day. Work, when found, was cruel and ruthless. Life, if survived, was a tale of hardship and adversity. For Annie Moses, there was no exception. A hired field hand, she shaded her eyes with her arm and squinted as she stared across the vast cotton fields and watched as other workers moved wearily under the weight of the exhausting, afternoon heat. She bent her head down and coughed to clear her throat of the heavy, granular air, struggling to catch her next breath. Then she closed her eyes to rest. How could she go on like this? There was no progress. Life as a sharecropper was difficult and burdensome and the work nearly unbearable. But then her thoughts turned towards her children back in the old clapboard shack, especially her daughter Jane’s musical gift, in which she would sacrificially invest. Perhaps there was reason to go on. A flicker of hope kindled deep within her spirit and she opened her eyes, knelt over the next plant, and began to quietly hum the tune of a poor wayfaring pilgrim.

Decades later, on a black, rainy night in New York City, Annie Wolaver found herself sitting in a cab for the trip home. She wasn’t paying attention to the bustling busyness along the avenues or the stream of traffic that could make the journey longer than it should. Her mind was in a million places and she had a real dilemma on her hands. The proposition was risky at best. Should she continue pursuing a solo career in classical music or would she squander the years of dedication, hard work, and the musical legacy left to her through her parents, her grandmother Jane, and her great-grandmother and namesake, Annie Moses for a chance at something she had viewed as a “sideline gig” or something she and her family did “just for fun”? Annie reminisced about her past; the long hours she and her brothers and sisters had spent practicing and honing their skills and talents with their parents, at the Blair School of Music at Vanderbilt University, the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, and Julliard. She thought about the times she and her family would perform together for family reunions or small events. Could they do something more? Could they successfully travel outside the boundaries of traditional classical music? Would it work? Could it work? Would they remain pilgrims or become prodigals? Read more »

Gordon Mote: “Music, Family, Life!”

“Music, Family, Life”

Gordon Mote

By Jennifer Campbell

(published December 2012 SGNScoops Magazine)

Sitting on a piano bench at the young age of three years old, Gordon Mote began a journey that has literally taken him across the country and around the world.  For even as a young boy, God began preparing Gordon for a journey far greater than he ever imagined possible.  Now, he travels more than 150 dates per year and works on recording sessions for a wide array of Gospel and Country artists each week.  He has become one of the most sought-after recording studio session players in Nashville, receiving the Academy of Country Music Award for Piano/Keyboard Player of the Year in 2009 and 2011.  But through it all, Gordon keeps his eyes on the One who made it all possible: God.  He gives God the glory for his music, his family, and his life.

“I’m sure it was a big influence in me even knowing [Gospel] music because I’m sure Mama and Daddy didn’t listen to a whole lot of other at that time,” Gordon said.  “But I remember playing [piano] in church.  My first memories of playing piano were mostly gospel songs.  As I grew up, as a kid, I’d listen to all kinds of radio and I’d play anything I heard, if it was a television commercial, or a country song, or a pop song, or a gospel song.  But we grew up listening to Southern Gospel and as I got older, contemporary music.”

While Gordon has ventured into several genres of music throughout his career, there is still a special place in his heart for the music that started it all.  The timeless melodies and old familiar lyrics of the Gospel classics hold fond memories for Gordon.

“We had a radio station in our hometown, WGAD, in Gadsden,” Gordon stated, “and they had a Sunday morning program called Songs of Inspiration. That’s where we heard so many of the songs that my brother and I learned to sing.  That’s why the “Songs I Grew Up Singing” record I have out now is so important to me because it brings back a lot of great memories and it just proves that great lyrics and great songs can stand the test of time.  You put a new face on it and it’s like it’s brand new again.”

Gordon credits Bill Gaither for giving him the platform on which to begin his ministry.  He said his six years traveling with the Gaither Homecoming tour was a memorable journey, one that he cherishes to this day.  He still joins the tour on select dates whenever his schedule allows.

Speaking of the Gaither Homecoming Friends, Gordon said the best part of being at a taping for the Homecoming Video series is what people do not see on the videos.  He says that the Homecoming Friends are like a big family.  They share stories, tell jokes, and even argue a little bit.  But at the end of the day, they care for each other and love each other like one big happy family.

Gordon is part of the younger generation of Gospel Music artists, so I asked him what it was like to follow in the footsteps of so many of the Gospel Music legends.  His response was that it is “weird.”  He said people always come up to him at concerts, complimenting him and his ministry.  And he said they say things about him like he would say of many of the legends.  He humbly said that it seems odd at times that people will pay for a ticket just to come see him.  But he said he enjoys talking to people and meeting new people, which is why he said his autograph line usually moves a bit slower than others nearby.  Surely, this is a trait of someone who truly loves what they do and appreciates the people who come to hear him perform. Read more »

Canton Junction: A Faithful Journey!

“A Faithful Journey”

Canton Junction

By Jennifer Campbell, 

(SGNScoops Magazine, November 2012)

Have you ever encountered a crossroads in life?  Sometimes in life, we may not plan out the course our lives will take.  But God knows the path that we will travel down along life’s journey, and He knows where these roads will intersect.  One Sunday morning, four individuals joined their voices in song, unaware of the harmony that would bring them together as a group.  Matthew Hagee, Aaron Crabb, Michael Sykes, and Tim Duncan came to a crossroads.  Instead of going four separate directions, they faithfully followed God’s footsteps.  And His footsteps traveled down the road to Canton Junction.

Canton Junction was born from a special musical performance at Cornerstone Church in San Antonio, Texas.  As the group began to sing, it became clear that the harmony within the group, both literally and figuratively, was a rare find.  The group’s name, Canton Junction, means “the crossroads of different subjects or regions into one gathering point.”  On the day they came together to sing in one accord, that was their gathering point.  The different regions where they live and diverse musical backgrounds they come from represent the crossroads of different subjects.  Yet, no matter how different they may be, they sing for one reason and one reason alone: to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

While they are a quartet, Canton Junction represents so much more than four-part harmony.  They have dozens of GMA Dove Awards, Grammy nominations, and other accolades between them.  In addition, they have over 85 years of experience between them.  Their styles of music range from traditional hymns to the Eagles and Southern Gospel to big band.  Needless to say, there is something for everyone.  And the best part of all is that every song is sung for the sole purpose of sharing God’s grace with everyone who hears them.

For over a decade, the lead singer of Canton Junction, Aaron Crabb, traveled with the renowned group The Crabb Family.  During this chapter in his musical journey, he sang and produced 19 number one gospel songs.  This Kentucky-born individual has performed at Carnegie Hall, the Grand Ole Opry, and many other prestigious locations.  Yet all the while, he simply loves the Lord, his family, and singing.  Aaron holds a firm belief that God can use music to heal hearts and that the Truth gets us through the many obstacles that we may encounter.

Canton Junction is proud to have award-winning bass singer, Tim Duncan, on board with them.  An original member of Ernie Haase and Signature Sound, Tim describes himself as a “quartet man.”  He received the Singing News Fan Award for Best Bass in 2006.  Tim said his earliest memories of music were of his dad buying quartet records.  It was in these moments that he fell in love with the thrill of hearing long endings, the tenor soaring, and the bass booming.  Bringing to the table 16 years of full-time singing experience, along with his involvement with Billboard-topping albums and DVDs, he still remains down to earth.  For Tim, it’s not about the awards and honors, but instead, it’s about the reason he sings: he loves to make people happy by singing the best music in the world – music that communicates the Best News ever.

Continuing a six-generation legacy of ministry, Matthew Hagee sings tenor for Canton Junction.  Matthew grew up singing around the piano with his family.  He serves as Executive Pastor of Cornerstone Church, alongside his father, John Hagee, Founding Pastor.  Having graduated from Oral Roberts University School of Business, Matthew is also a gifted speaker and author, in addition to being an accomplished vocalist.  He has authored two books, “Shaken, Not Shattered” and “Response-Able.”  When he is not on stage, he lives a truly Texan lifestyle, trading horses and cattle in his spare time.

The group’s baritone is no stranger to gospel music, having enjoyed a long and successful run in Nashville as a producer, songwriter, and business owner.  Michael Sykes has produced award-winning albums for artists such as the Gaither Vocal Band, Russ Taff, The Martins, Jeff and Sheri Easter, and The Oak Ridge Boys.  His love for harmony, along with his tenure with Ponder, Sykes, & Wright, makes him a natural group vocalist.  Although Michael has received multiple GMA Dove Awards for producing and songwriting, he is a country boy at heart who has a gift for making music.

I had the opportunity to interview Matthew recently and found that he not only preaches what he sings, but also lives what he preaches.  I pray you enjoy reading his responses to the questions I presented to him.

Matthew said that it’s hard to remember when he first heard Southern Gospel Music.  He said, “It’s difficult to say when church music, family music, fun music was and is Southern Gospel Music.  It wasn’t until someone told us what we were listening to that we knew what to call the music that was such a big part of our everyday lives.  I have always loved Gospel Music of every kind and type.  From an early age my family memories are around the piano singing the songs of the church.  My father has always made it a point to pursue excellent, God-honoring music in our church, and as long as those two elements were first and foremost, then the style really didn’t matter.   From big band to bluegrass it all has a place.”

Now that he is a part of a Gospel singing group, Mathew says that following in the steps of some of the greatest Gospel Music Legends is nearly incomprehensible.  “To even be mentioned in phrases with people that you admire so dearly seems to be beyond anything we could have imagined for Canton Junction,” said Matthew.

Mathew said his greatest influence has been his father, John Hagee.  He added, “Outside of my father in music, there have been many – George Younce, Glen Payne, Lari Goss, Ben Speer, and Bill Gaither – not to mention the gentlemen I’m privileged to work with now.”

As a singer, the lyrics of songs become a very important part of your life.  Matthew said if he could write a song to describe his life so far, he would title the song, “Blessed.”  Concerning a song that has blessed him personally, he responded, “That is something that changes from day to day and season to season.   Whether it is a season of joy or hardship, the greatest endorsement I can give to Gospel Music is that it always meets the needs of the moment.”

Matthew is definitely a family man.  Matthew said, “Anywhere my wife and kids are happy is paradise to me.”  He and his wife Kendal are blessed with three children, Hannah Rose, John William and Joel Charles, and are looking forward to the birth of their fourth child in April 2013.  He says he balances his time between family and ministry by purposely devoting his time to whatever it is he is doing.  “When I’m with my family, I’m with my family,” Matthew said.  “When I am working, I am working.  Whatever I am doing at the moment is what I am 100% invested in.”

Matthew shared some wisdom to young artists who are just starting out.  He said, “Always honor God; make worship a priority and endure.”  Matthew said, “God is alive and well and watching.”  Canton Junction follows this advice, understanding the fact that we should live our lives in honor of our Heavenly Father, making Him proud when He watches us along the road of life.

More About Matt

Most Encouraging Scripture: Jeremiah 1:5

Favorite Restaurant: “What are you hungry for?”

Favorite Book: Whichever one is in my hand at the moment.  I love to read!

The group is excited to see what great things God has in store for them as they seek His direction on their musical journey.  Their journey has literally taken them around the world with their tour of Israel where they performed for Prime Minister Netanyahu.  Additionally, they recently recorded a live concert in San Antonio.  “It was one of the most exciting musical events that I have ever been a part of,” stated Matthew.  “We are looking forward to sharing the evening in a video release very soon.”

Canton Junction has experienced great success throughout the time they have been sharing the Good News through song.  And it is certain that they will continue to have tremendous success for years to come.  For Matthew, and quite assuredly the other members of the group, the best part of traveling and singing as Canton Junction is the “opportunity to see people blessed by the message of the music that we sing and to enjoy singing with friends that mean so much.”  That is what it is truly all about: the message in the music, the music along the journey, and the faithful journey traveled by Canton Junction.

Canton Junction recently celebrated their chart-topping radio success at a special luncheon. The quartet’s debut single, “Hold On,” written by Gerald Crabb, reached #1 on The Christian Voice singles chart, while currently holding the #2 position on The Singing News.  To order Canton Junction’s debut album, visit: http://www.differencemedia.org.

For More information, visit Canton Junction on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CantonJunctionMusic

If you enjoyed this article, please download the latest issue of SGNScoops Magazine.  February’s issue highlights the ministries of The Nelons, The Browders, Lindsay Huggins, Gerald Crabb and more.   Here:

“Simply Charlotte” (Feature Story on Charlotte Ritchie)

“Simply Charlotte”

Published in 2012 August Edition’

by Jennifer Campbell

Some people are born with an innate love of music.  Others are blessed with the talent to be able to share their musical talent with thousands of people.  A select few have the gift of being able to also balance the responsibilities of being a wife and mother, all the while maintaining a busy schedule of traveling across the country.  This artist is no stranger to Southern Gospel Music, having traveled with the Nelons for five years and then Jeff and Sheri Easter for 12 years.  Now, she enjoys her third year traveling as a soloist.  This special individual is none other than Charlotte Ritchie.

Charlotte says of her solo career, “I’m really enjoying the solo thing.  It is different, but I am enjoying it!”  She said you don’t really realize how much planning goes into everything, since you are the only one planning your set, talking on stage, and seeming as if you have done all of this for years.  She said, “It’s a LOT!  You can’t turn to anyone else for help; you just have to do it.”

Even so, she has definitely risen to the challenge.  People are embracing her with open arms and she is grateful for their support.  “It’s really been amazing because even though I’ve been in the industry for a long time, when you start something new, you’re starting over,” said Charlotte.  “People have been so kind.   We have just been busy since day one and that’s a huge blessing!  We’ve been very thankful for that.”

If you ever have the opportunity to sit down and chat with Charlotte, you’ll find out that her heart is as a big as the state of Texas.  Not only that, but her love for God is greater still.  She gives God all of the credit concerning her solo ministry.  “God has opened a lot of doors for us,” Charlotte stated.  “That has been our prayer from the beginning.  God, You open the doors for us and we will go!  And He has, so that’s what we’re doing.”  Read more »

December 2012 Edition Of SGNScoops Magazine

From the staff of SGNScoops Magazine, Merry Christmas! We pray the December edition warms your heart this holiday season. On the cover this month is the sensational Annie Moses Band. Also we highlight the latest happenings in the ministries of Gordon Mote, Cross Music Group, Soul’d Out Quartet, Randy and Sherri Miller, Kevin Mills, C S & K, and Micah Watkins. Rhonda Frye share the highlights of the recent Write About Jesus songwriter’s conference, Jennifer Campbell shares a recent Women of Faith experience and Rob Patz shares a media minute with Patricia Mathis. We urge you to give the gift of Gospel Music! Sandi Duncan Clark reviews the latest albums from the Littles, the Hoppers, The Easters, the Blackwood Brothers, and the Hinshaw Trio. Also included in this edition, Laurrette Willis encourages Christian Fitness during the holidays, John Mathis gives a word of encouragement and Lou Hildreth shares wonderful memories. For this special holiday issue, we’ve gathered many tasty recipes from our staff, readers and many artists. We urge you to put these recipes to the test! We’ve had a great 2012 at SGNScoops and are looking forward to great things in 2013. Remember, SGNScoops All Digital Magazine is absolutely free, so please share with your family, fans and friends! Merry Christmas!!

Download This Months Magazine Here

We’re Growing!

We’re excited about the rise in popularity we’ve experienced this year!  We’re now at a place of adding additional gifted writers to our team.  Do you enjoy writing?  Do you love Gospel Music?  We are considering adding feature writers and event writers to our staff at Coastal Media Group. Coastal Media is the parent company of SGNScoops.com, SGNScoops All Digital Magazine, Creekside Gospel Music Convention, The Southern Styles Show, and SGMRadio.com.  We’ve grown during 2012 and anticipate substantial growth to continue in 2013.  If you are interested in using your writing skills to promote the gospel and gospel music, please email rhonda@sgnscoops.com  for more information.

SGNScoops Great Gospel Giveaway!

SGN Scoops is thrilled to announce their Great Gospel Giveaway! The winner will receive the children’s book, “Where Does God Live” by Phillip W. Rodgers. Endorsed by Jason Crabb, this book about the promise of Heaven is part of Rodgers’ Discovering God Series. The Discovering God Series is a beautiful collection of story books that teach young children about God. The winning copy of “Where Does God Live” is autographed by the author and illustrator, Phillip W. Rodgers.

The Great Gospel Giveaway Question is:  How many years of combined experience in Gospel Music does Canton Junction have?

Canton Junction is the cover feature for the November issue of SGN Scoops Magazine.  Download your copy today and find the answer to the contest question.  Email your answer to the Contest Question  to connect@sgnscoops.com by Midnight EST, December 4, 2012.

Send in your correct answer today for a chance to receive this beautiful book just in time for Christmas gift giving. One response per email address only.

For more information about Phillip W. Rodgers, The Discovering God Series, visit: http://www.discoveringgodseries.com/

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.