SGN Scoops Digital

2011 Songwriter of the Year, Gerald Crabb,To Release Solo Project With Daywind Records

Hendersonville, TN (August 29, 2011) – Daywind Records is pleased to announce the release of a new solo project from award winning songwriter, Gerald Crabb.  The project, entitled Sometimes I Cry, will be available at retail stores nationwide on September 27th and includes contributions from Marty Raybon, Weston Hinson, Terry Franklin, the Easter Brothers and Jimmy & Jennifer Layne.  Produced by Gerald himself, with assistance from Russell Jr. and Jared Easter of the legendary Easter Brothers, Sometimes I Cry features 10 songs that communicate the blessings and struggles of everyday life, drawing the listener in with its country feel, and speaking to the sinner and saint alike.
Best known as the writer of the Crabb Family’s biggest hits, such as “Through The Fire,” “The Reason That I’m Standing,” and “Please Forgive Me,” Gerald Crabb has penned over 350 songs, 22 of which have reached #1 on the charts.    Most recently, Gerald was named 2011 Songwriter of the Year at the 42nd Annual GMA Dove Awards, in addition to winning 2011 Song of the Year for “Sometimes I Cry,” recorded by his son, Jason Crabb.

“Before starting to work on my new album, Sometimes I Cry, I knew in my mind where I wanted to go with it,” shares Gerald Crabb. “I just needed to get with the right crew to pull it off.  I wanted the raw earthy sound somewhere between bluegrass and early country music, coupled with Christian lyrics.  It seems like God just brought the whole thing together.”

Gerald continues, “From the first song I did with the gang at Easter studio, I knew it was just what I had envisioned.  From start to finish, the photography, the artwork, the support from Daywind, and the guests on the album, everything has fallen into place.  I am very, very excited about this project.”

“When I first heard the CD, I immediately thought of Johnny Cash and Billy Joe Shaver,” comments Ed Leonard, President of Daywind Records.  “Gerald captured the gritty, real feel that so many artists are missing these days.  He sings from his soul instead of his diaphragm.  The lyrics and melodies take you into the life of a sinner, saved by grace, and trying to live his life for Jesus.  The listener feels pain, regret, melancholy, happiness and triumph throughout the entire record.”

The first single from the project, “Prince of Peace,” hits Southern Gospel radio this week.

In addition to a new solo project, Gerald plans to release his first book, Through The Fire, later this year.  According to Gerald, “The book is an in-depth history of the award winning song along with many heart wrenching stories that are sure to inspire your faith in God.  I am amazed at how God has used the song to touch lives around the world.”

Sometimes I Cry will be available at Christian retail stores across the country and digitally at iTunes and other outlets.  Bulk purchasing for gift and ministry purposes is available by calling 1-800-635-9581.
Daywind Records is based in Hendersonville, TN, and is distributed worldwide through New Day Christian Distributors.  In addition to Gerald Crabb, Daywind is home to many other great artists such as the Perrys and Wilburn & Wilburn, among others.  For more information on Gerald Crabb, visit geraldcrabb.net.  For more information on Daywind Records, visit daywindrecords.com.

MOTHER OF JEFF EASTER PASSES AWAY

NASHVILLE, TN  - Mary Louise Sechrist Easter, age 76, passed away peacefully on Sunday evening, August 7, 2011 at the Joan and Howard Woltz Hospice Home in Dobson, NC in the presence of family and friends.

JEFF & SHERI EASTER WELCOME FRIENDS TO THEIR ANNUAL HOMECOMING CONCERT

NASHVILLE, TENN.  – Jeff & Sheri Easter are gearing up for their annual Homecoming concert and event. This year, the festivities will take place over Mother’s Day weekend – May 6-7, 2011 – at the Lewis Family home in Lincolnton, Ga.

Those who attend the two-day concert event will have the rare opportunity to wander through and see many of the original furnishings, as well as the complete discography of all Lewis Family albums recorded throughout their 58-year career.

“Jeff and I both appreciate the heritage of gospel music we have in our respective families, and we choose to honor that legacy by hosting an annual homecoming at the home place of my family,” says Sheri. “Our commitment has been to honor our family by bringing in the best in southern gospel music. This year, we’re especially excited to feature all of the family members who are still traveling.”

In addition to the music of Jeff & Sheri Easter, those in attendance will also be treated to Jason Crabb, Little Roy Lewis & Lizzy Long, Karen Peck & New River, The Lewis Tradition and The Easter Brothers.

Tickets to the annual homecoming are $15, and can be purchased in advanced through their website (www.jeffandsherieaster.com) or day of the event at the gate.

ABOUT JEFF & SHERI EASTER
Two-time GRAMMY®-nominated Jeff & Sheri Easter are Gospel music treasures. They are featured regularly on the Gaither HOMECOMING videos and international HOMECOMING tours in addition to their own heavy schedule of appearances. Jeff & Sheri are the recipients of six GMA DOVE Awards, 15 Singing News Fan Awards, three Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music Association Awards, two International Country Gospel Music Association honors, 16 Voice Awards, four Southern Gospel Music Fan Fair Awards, five SGN Scoops Diamond Awards, four Hearts Aflame Awards and three Cash Box Awards.

Formed in 1988 following childhoods as part of their respective, nationally-known family groups—The Lewis Family and The Easter Brothers, the married couple is joined today on stage by their children—Madison and Morgan Easter—who round out the group. The group is known for such hits as “Roses Will Bloom Again,” “Praise His Name,” “Thread of Hope,” “Speak to the Mountain” and many others including “Born to Climb,” which garnered a 2010 DOVE Award.

Their latest release, Silver Anniversary (SpringHill Records), celebrates 25 years of marriage, music and love. The project is available on iTunes and retail stores nationwide.

For further information, visit www.jeffandsherieaster.com.