Southern Gospel News SGNScoops Digital

Pray for the families of Danny and Ivan Parker

Katie Parker, mother of Danny and Ivan Parker

Danny and Ivan Parker have lost their mother, Katie Parker, who passed away last evening. Known as “Mama” Parker to many, Ms. Katie Parker was in her 96th year.

Danny Parker posted on Facebook:

We are very sad to announce that Mama Parker has gained her angel wings as she made her transition to Heaven this afternoon 6/13/20. Many met mom at The Annual Parker Homecoming over the past 22 years and will agree that she really knew how to touch Heaven with her prayers. Mom would get on stage the last night of homecoming and testify of the many miracles she had experienced in her life. My favorite part was when she would sing “If I could hear my Mother pray again” and knew every verse by heart. She is now in Heaven with her mom…of course they are shouting and having a celebration. Her 95+ years here on earth was spent caring for her family, loving God and sharing the Gospel. You want a conversation…just mention God and the conversation would begin. She would walk the halls of her home and pray for those with special needs and many people she had never met. I was thinking today….who will take her place as a prayer warrior?

KJV 2 Timothy 4 (7) I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: (8) Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing.

Please remember the family in prayer. Funeral arrangements will be announced once finalized.

Danny Parker

Please join SGNScoops staff in prayer for the family of Ms. Katie Parker.

HOPE SINGS Introduced by Godsey Media Management

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Thursday, March 19, 2020) – Godsey Media Management is proud to present a chance for all of us – fans and artists alike – to come together and unite while practicing social distancing. Thousands of concerts have been postponed for Christian artists and we don’t want you to miss a moment of the music. Godsey Media Management is set to present a new online concert series, “HOPE SINGS,” featuring your favorite artists live in concert from our TV studio in Nashville, Tennessee, directly to you, wherever you are.

The process is easy: a “Family Pass” to each concert is one low price of $20.00 per concert. Click the concert link below, fill in your email address, create a password, choose your method of payment – that’s it! You can enjoy the concert at the scheduled time and it will be available for 24 hours after the live broadcast. You can watch easily on your Smart TV, computer, tablet or phone. (one pass per household)

We as artists, creators, listeners, and as a community can continue to share the light, love, and hope of Christ in this troubled time. For many artists this low ticket price to their online concert will be there main source of revenue while touring continues to be limited. We know many friends and fans need encouragement and want to support the artists they love.

Scott Godsey says, “You can buy multiple tickets and gift them to your friends and family. This is truly a time for us to come together and give the world access to personal, interactive concerts that will bring hope and encouragement in a time of crisis. The artists need your support more now than ever and they are putting together some unique ideas to make these online concerts even more special for those who are willing to purchase a pass! We will be producing a high quality production with staging, lighting and multiple cameras to give the consumer a real experience like never before.”

Greater Vision

The initial schedule of concerts will feature Greater Vision, Ivan Parker, Legacy Five, Perrys, Gold City, Brian Free and Assurance, 11^thHour, Aaron Wilburn and friends, Jim and Melissa Brady, Tribute, Freemans, Nelons, Jeff Stice, LeFevre Quartet, The Old Paths, and more to be announced.

Godsey Media Management is known for the nationally syndicated Music City Show as well as producing and broadcasting live events through TV networks and streaming platforms for many years.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR HOPE SINGS

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Ivan Parker Requests Prayer

Ivan Parker Requests Prayer

Do you ever question God’s timing even though we know He has the perfect plan?
I am so thankful that He knew I needed to be at home last night and not on the road!
My sweet Teresa had a heart attack late last night but we were able to get her to the hospital and in to surgery in record time. She is surrounded by family and doing very well. We are thanking God, and expecting a full recovery! God is so good!!
You can check here for any updates. We know we can count on your love and prayers. We love you all.

Ivan Parker is feeling at home

(Photo by Craig Harris)
Ivan Parker recently released his 17th solo project, “Feels Like Home”

By Craig Harris

Ivan Parker looks back on his recording career and finds himself surprised at the fact that he has recorded 17 solo projects.

“I can’t believe I did that much work,” Parker says. “I can’t believe I sang that many songs. Not only did I record, then I took them on the road and performed them every night … no wonder I’m tired.”

Parker exchanged that fatigue for excitement recently as an album release luncheon for the latest of those projects – “Feels Like Home” – was held at Sound Emporium Studios in Nashville, Tennessee.

“It’s that anticipation,” Parker points out. “It’s like you have that question in the back of your mind … did I do it right? Did I deliver it properly? Could we have done something a little bit differently on it? I’m sure we could have … but it’s a done deal, so live with it.”

Parker teamed with long-time friend and former Gold City member, Garry Jones, the producer of the project.

“It’s the friendship that dates back to the early 1980s,” Jones explains. “It goes beyond friendship. It’s about understanding and trust, because that was established years ago. When we go to work on a record, there’s a trust factor. It’s trust in each other. It’s trust that you have my back. It’s trust that you’re vested in this journey with me.

“It makes it a little more special than just being work-for-hire. We are creating something together for friends.”

Jones has been the producer on several of Parker’s recent projects.

Photo by Craig Harris
Ivan Parker (at right) talks with individuals at the album release luncheon for his latest solo project – “Feels Like Home” – as producer Garry Jones listens.

“It’s fun working with an old friend and knowing his abilities already,” Parker shares. “He knows my voice probably better than anybody does. I know his abilities better than anybody does. It’s really a pretty cool merger in the studio. It’s a really great experience collaborating and arranging.

“Whenever we finished that last song in the studio – “Through It All” – we capped it, and it was done. When we were getting ready to leave, Garry looked at me and said, ‘Thank you for letting me be a part of this. I needed to hear where I came from.’ I like that.”

According to Parker, the creative process remains unchanged.

“It’s always the same process,” Parker notes. “There may be some technicalities that may change. We always get together and go over the songs. We sort of get a general list of the songs we like and could possibly do, and then, we narrow it down. We have our procedure there. Then, Garry starts arranging and writing out the musical charts, and then we go in and start the recording process. It’s pretty much the same. We just do it in different locations.”

Photo by Craig Harris
Producer Garry Jones (at left) speaks at the album release luncheon for “Feels Like Home” as Ivan Parker listens.

In addition to “Through It All,” the project is filled with songs familiar to many Southern gospel music fans, including: “Feeling at Home in the Presence of Jesus,” “Why Me,” “I Just Came to Talk with You Lord,” “Dig a Little Deeper in God’s Love,” “The Holy Hills of Heaven Call Me,” and “I Can’t Even Walk.”

“There’s always a joy in presenting a song that the people know, because if they know it, you’re going to be able to look at their lips and see them singing it back to you,” Parker says. “That’s the effect we wanted. That’s one of the things we wanted to do. I’m looking forward to that in staging and hearing these people respond in a live atmosphere.”

It’s difficult for Parker to select a favorite among the cuts on the project, which was released on Aug. 2.

“I like them all equal,” Parker points out. “It’s like a sleeper … when you get on stage, you don’t know which one is going to bring the most smiles. It could be ‘Why Me Lord.’ That’s the interesting part in producing a new record. Hopefully, we have 11 great songs.”

Photo by Craig Harris
Ivan Parker’s former Gold City co-hort, Garry Jones (pictured), is the producer of Ivan Parker’s latest solo project, “Feels Like Home.”

Jones adds, “There’s always a song or two or three or four that have a unique ability that can speak to you in a unique and new and fresh way. What stands out to me is the overall continuity that creates from song to song. There is a common thread that is somewhat organic in nature that we were able to weave through the entire project that just came together. We did our part to the best of our ability. The rest is just something that happened that we couldn’t expect.”

By Craig Harris

First published in SGNScoops Magazine in September 2019

Dreams come true: a look at Ivan Parker

Dreams Come True: a look at the ministry of Ivan Parker

Ivan Parker has had a long, storied career in the Southern gospel music field having sung with several popular groups. He has also been a staple of the Gaither Homecoming videos. Parker currently travels and ministers as a soloist, and is experiencing great success. From an early age, Parker always knew he wanted to sing. He has been blessed to be able to do what he loves and spread the Word of God through song.

Gospel music has been a major part of Parker’s life since the beginning. Parker, while at his father’s church, gave his heart to the Lord at nine years old and from that point, knew he wanted to sing.

“I started singing weekends with my brothers when I was 13 years old,” says Parker.. “My dad was a pastor so I grew up in church. Being from a large family of seven kids, we all learned to sing early in life. My first full time position came in 1982 with the Singing Americans. Then I started with Gold City in 1983 and traveled with them for 10 years. I immediately started my solo career in January 1994, and also started with the Gaithers doing a few tour dates in February of that year, which continued for years on video and concert dates.”

Parker’s unique and powerful lead voice is easily recognizable. His great sound and style was influenced by several of the great pioneers of the Gospel music field.

Parker states, “Through the years of loving Southern gospel music, there are many influences. I have always loved the crooning vocals and personality of Jake Hess, the smooth lead singing of Duane Allen with the Oak Ridge Boys.” He is now a part of that long line of incredible vocalists.

Gold City recorded some of its most popular hits during Parker’s tenure, including: “In My Robe Of White,” “I Think I’ll Read It Again,” “John Saw,” and “Midnight Cry.” The latter song became Parker’s signature.

November 2018 SGNScoops Magazine

Following his departure from Gold City, Parker embarked on a solo career in 1994. He has been nominated for, and received, several national gospel music awards. Parker’s music has resonated with audiences all over the world and captures beautifully the message of Christ. His latest mainline release “Dancing In The Rain” features his latest radio single which conveys a timely message.

Parker explains, “The latest radio single is called ‘Take Me To The Cross,’ written by Rodney Griffin. I had been looking for a song that was a mix of patriotic with a Christian message. Without Rodney and I talking, he emailed me this song and I knew God intended this song for me. It was the perfect blend of the two messages that I was wanting. I absolutely love this song!”

Read more »

“25 Days of Sharing”- Josh Parker

December is a time for sharing. At Christmas, we (Christians) celebrate The Greatest Gift of All, Jesus Christ.

Over the next few weeks we will be talking with many industry leaders, artists, pastors, promoters, etc. and asking them questions.  They will “share” the answer to the question in 10 seconds or less. We are asking for their best advice on many different topics.

Question #12 goes to Josh Parker, Guitarist and Son of of Ivan Parker.

Josh, tell us how it feels to travel and play for your Dad. What is the greatest thing about it?

“25 Days of Sharing” – Ivan Parker

Ivan Parker

December is a time for sharing. At Christmas, we (Christians) celebrate The Greatest Gift of All, Jesus Christ.

Over the next few weeks we will be talking with many industry leaders, artists, pastors, promoters, etc. and asking them questions.  They will “share” the answer to the question in 10 seconds or less. We are asking for their best advice on many different topics.

Question #10 goes to Ivan Parker

Ivan , 

In 10 seconds or less can you tell me your first thought when you heard the song, “Midnight Cry” for the first time?

IVAN PARKER IS CHRISTMAS DREAMING OCTOBER 5

IVAN PARKER IS CHRISTMAS DREAMING OCTOBER 5

NASHVILLE, Tenn.—Difference Media recording artist and one of Southern Gospel’s most lauded soloists, Ivan Parker, is set to release Christmas Dreaming October 5. Produced by Garry Jones (Canton Junction, Brian Free), the collection offers a nostalgic take on six timeless holiday favorites and four beloved carols.  
 
Parker’s signature vocals are showcased atop big band horns, jazz piano riffs and lush orchestrations as he seamlessly delivers a range of Christmas classics, from “There’s No Place Like Home For The Holidays” and “It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas” to “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” and “What Child Is This,” among others. 

“It’s my hope that this collection presents the spirit of Christmas morning—the peace that brings us closer together at the holidays,” said Parker. “‘It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year’ and ‘There’s No Place Like Home For The Holidays’ take me right back to my childhood and Christmas with my family. And the newer classic, ‘My Grown Up Christmas List,’ is so fitting for the times we live in now. With much confusion and division in the world, it was important for me to have a song about love, peace and the restoration of joy. Forget the problems and the things that divide us and let’s go back to what the season is all about.” 
 
“Most of all, I want people to understand the real reason for Christmas,” Parker emphasizes. “Carols like ‘What Child Is This’ and ‘It Came Upon A Midnight Clear’ point us back to the manger—these are the songs that present Jesus, the true Hope of Christmas.” 
 

IVAN PARKER

Serving as lead vocalist for the iconic quartet Gold City from 1983-1993—where he recorded his signature #1 hit, “Midnight Cry”— Ivan Parker’s acclaimed solo career now spans more than 20 years. He has garnered 31 Singing News Fan Awards, highlighted by 12 Favorite Male Vocalist honors, while his #1 Southern Gospel radio singles include “Hit The Ground Running” and “I Choose.” As a solo artist, Parker has released 16 recordings, five DVDs and has been featured in 32 best-selling Gaither Homecoming videos. His critically-acclaimed Difference Media debut, Dancing in the Rain, released in 2016.  
 
Difference Media is a division of John Hagee Ministries, founded by John Hagee. Along with Ivan Parker, the San Antonio-based label features some of the leading names in Gospel music, including Canton Junction, Ricardo Sanchez, Matt Hagee, The Hagees, Tim Duncan, Aaron & Amanda Crabb, The Cornerstone Sanctuary Choir and John Hagee.
 
Christmas Dreaming, a Difference Media release, will be distributed by Capitol Christian Music Group. 
 
For further information, visit ivanparker.com,turningpointpr.com or differencemedia.org. Follow Parker on Facebook,Instagram and Twitter.

Ivan Parker In Concert

Ivan Parker In Concert

People’s Tabernacle Church, 64 Airways Blvd, Savannah, TN will welcome “IVAN PARKER”, on Sunday, April 29, 2018 at 6:00PM.

Ivan Parker is best known from the Bill Gaither Homecoming Tour & Videos, as well as the former lead singer of the Gold City Quartet and voice of the hit song “Midnight Cry”. He is now the most award soloist in Gospel Music. Pastor Josh & Ashley Franks will also appear. For more information, go to www.ptcsavannah.com

IVAN PARKER RETURNS TO TOP 5 OF BILLBOARD VIDEO CHART

IVAN PARKER RETURNS TO TOP 5 OF BILLBOARD VIDEO CHART

NASHVILLE, Tenn.—The Best of Ivan Parker: From The Homecoming Series, a Gaither Music Group collection originally released in 2007, has returned to the Top 5 of Billboard’s Music Video Sales chart. The best-selling DVD is #4 on the publication’sMarch 11 chart, joining such iconic artists as The Beatles, Adele and The Rolling Stones in the Top 10. Upon its initial release a decade ago, The Best of Ivan Parker reached the chart’s #2 position.

The Best of Ivan Parker, hosted by GRAMMY® and Dove Award-winning Gospel Music pioneer Bill Gaither, features the award-winning artist’s most popular Homecoming video series performances through the years, along with never-before-seen footage, family photos, and interviews. Spotlighted in the collection are such classic hymns as “In The Garden” and “Jesus Loves Me”; Christian music standards including “Rise Again” and “I Can Only Imagine”; and Parker’s signature song, “Midnight Cry.”

Ivan Parker has been one of Southern Gospel’s most lauded vocalists for more than three decades, having received 32 Singing News Fan Awards including 14 Favorite Soloist honors. He was lead singer for the Dove Award-winning quartet Gold City from 1983–1993 during which time he recorded the now-classic “Midnight Cry.” As a solo artist, he has released 16 recordings and five DVDs, along with being featured in 32 best-selling Gaither Homecoming videos. His #1 Southern Gospel radio singles include “Hit The Ground Running” and “I Choose.” Parker’s 16th solo recording, Dancing In The Rain, released last year on the Difference Media label.

Ivan Parker

One of the largest independent Christian music companies in the world and a household name for millions of fans, GAITHER MUSIC GROUP is known worldwide for its award-winning and top-selling CD and DVD recordings, including the Gaither Gospel Series, of which 133 products have been certified gold, platinum or multi-platinum. These recordings, which encompass more than 177 video copyrights, showcase gospel music pioneers, many of the finest performers in the gospel genre, up-and-coming acts and country artists including The Oak Ridge Boys, Jimmy Fortune, Joey+Rory, Alabama, George Jones, Vince Gill and others. The Gaither brand of artists and products topped the Billboard Year-End Chart of Music Video Sales Labels for 2000, 2011, 2014 and 2015. Founder and recording artist Bill Gaither is a 6-time GRAMMY® Award winner and a recipient of over 41 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards.

For further information visit gaither.com, ivanparker.com or turningpointpr.com.

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