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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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Lorraine Walker: June issue of SGNScoops and building relationships

June 2019 SGNScoops Magazine, Lorraine Walker, Editor

Editor’s Last Word By Lorraine Walker for June 2019

Here is the June edition of SGNScoops Magazine and we are halfway through another year. It’s hard to believe we are almost finished the second decade of the second millennium. I’m relieved to see sunshine and blue skies today, as we’ve been deluged with rainstorms ever since it stopped snowing, or so it seems. I hope that today we’ve brought some light into your day through SGNScoops and the artists we have introduced in its pages. 

The New Speer Family graced our cover and John Herndon had the pleasure of speaking to the members of this fantastic group which is rejuvenating the celebrated sounds of the original Speer Family. I also had the pleasure of speaking to various members through email even though I’ve never personally met them. Allison Durham Speer communicates like few are able to, regardless of the type of music. If you ever had any doubt that faith in God can move mountains, one look at the smile on her face will assure you of her belief in a God who does the impossible. 

John Schneider is also an artist we have never featured before, but Jimmy Reno has introduced a man who has struggled with many losses, yet retained his faith in God. Schneider’s anticipated new release, “Recycled Grace,” is bound to be heartfelt and eloquent. 

One artist that readers will already be familiar with is 11th Hour since member Jaquita Lindsey was on our writing team for some time. The group itself has been featured in the past and now Rob Patz has asked them to join the Creekside Gospel Music Convention family of artists. This trio is loved by so many and their songs continue to light up the charts months after release. 

We appreciate the time all of these artists and writers took to tell the story of faith through music, along with new trio Avenue, as well as pianist virtuoso Jeff Stice, who both spoke with our esteemed writer, Robert York. Les Butler is also highly valued here, as he brings a touch of Bluegrass to our pages, through the story of Randy Spencer of the King James Boys. What a great issue, along with Jennifer Campbell showing us the greatness of our Heavenly Father in this month where we celebrate Father’s Day. Randall Hamm, Vonda Easley, and Rob Patz also lent their talent and pens, and we salute our whole staff, including our creative and design team.

Joan Walker, Vonda Armstrong and Lorraine Walker

I don’t often get a chance to visit with our SGNScoops team, but recently I went with my sister Joan, our proofreader and all-around error-catcher, to enjoy an afternoon with Vonda and Jack Armstrong. We had a good time with this fun couple and we appreciated that they would carve out a few hours in their too-short Niagara trip to visit with us. Vonda and I have been acquainted for several years but don’t really get to chat very often. We met Jack for the first time and I was reminded that regardless of accent, a sense of humor is something that connects people. A like spirit is also a positive connection and we all enjoyed the time of discussion and fun.

Strengthening relationships is something we all need to do, to either have an opportunity to show the love of Jesus to an unbeliever, or to build our own faith circle with people we trust. If you are an introvert like me, you find it difficult to step beyond basic greetings with your neighbors or the cashier you see regularly at your favorite store. Perhaps you are an extrovert who loves to chat but finds the deeper realities harder to discuss. It’s a learning curve for all of us to gain the trust of those around us enough to have the right to discuss our faith. I’m still learning and beyond talking about the random raccoon that appears to ravage our roofs, I haven’t built that many friendships on my street. But I’m trying.

I’m so glad we have the encouragement of gospel music, whatever style we happen to listen to, on any given day, to lift our spirits and strengthen us with the message of Jesus to face that day, whether we are asked to become uncomfortable or just watch for raccoons. Jesus loves us. The world needs to be reminded of that. 

Lorraine Walker, Editor, SGNScoops Magazine

Thank you, as always, for spending your time with us at SGNScoops. We appreciate our readers and we know that we wouldn’t be here without you. If you are struggling and need encouragement, or need to hear more about the love of Jesus, please write to me or anyone on our staff. We read every note and email. Please write to me at lorraine@sgnscoops.com

By Lorraine Walker, Editor, SGNScoops Magazine

First published in the SGNScoops Magazine in June 2019.

Read the June SGNScoops Magazine Online HERE

Jeff Stice Releases Andrae Crouch Tribute Recording – I’m Gonna Keep On

Jeff Stice Releases Andrae Crouch Tribute Recording – I’m Gonna Keep On

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  Gospel Music Hall of Fame Inductee and multi-award winning pianist Jeff Stice is releasing his first project on Daywind Instrumental. The new project, aptly titled I’m Gonna Keep On, is a tribute to legendary songwriter and Gospel music icon Andrae Crouch.

Jeff Stice said, “This is my first Daywind project and I’m speechless. What a project to begin with – the Songs of Andrae Crouch. It’s so apparent in the lyrics that he wrote, that Andrae Crouch had lived each word. He had the voice of experience! For the past three years of my life, I’ve gotten to know my Heavenly Father in an entirely new way. He loves me. I’ve learned that the more I truly depend on Him, the more He overwhelms me with His presence. All of these songs have made me realize that Andrae Crouch knew God in that same way. One song after the other, they all speak to me.”

I’m Gonna Keep On releases nationwide through Daywind Instrumental/New Day Christian Distributors on Friday, June 2, 2017. It will also be on Jeff’s website at  http://jeffsticemusic.com and at http://www.lifeway.com  the first week of June.

Jeff continued,”I urge you as you listen to pull up the lyrics to each of these songs and follow along. Not only are they incredible, but the melodies to each are so original, heartfelt and fun. I’m honored that Daywind Records sees value in what I do as a soloist. To think that they see me as an artist is mind boggling. I look forward to our journey together.”

I’m Gonna Keep On

Songs include:

1. I’m Gonna Keep On Singing

2. Soon And Very Soon

3. I Don’t Know Why

4. Can’t Nobody Do Me Like Jesus

5. The Blood Will Never Lose It’s Power

6. It Won’t Be Long

7. Bless The Lord

8. Through It All

9. My Tribute

10.I’ve Got Confidence

You can learn more about Jeff Stice at http://www.jeffsticemusic.com

Follow Jeff on FaceBook at https://www.facebook.com/jeffsticemusic or Twitter at https://twitter.com/JeffsBleedinBlu .

To book Jeff contact Beckie Simmons Agency at beckie@bsaworld.com or call 615-595-7500.

THE MUSIC CITY SHOW CRUISE ANNOUNCES TALENT FOR 2018

The Nelons will appear on the Music City Show Cruise 2018

Spectacular Lineup  For The Music City Show Cruise 2018 Features Fan Favorites Michael English, Nelons, Jeff & Sheri Easter, Karen Peck & New River, Joseph Habedank, Erwins, Tim Lovelace, and more!

Cabins On Sale Now!

Nashville, TN (April 5, 2017) – Some of gospel music’s most beloved artists and inspiring new talent will come together for one amazing week when the 2018 Music City Show Cruise sets sail from March 18-25, 2018. Filled with music day and night, and exotic ports of call – including Haiti, Jamaica and Mexico – this is a vacation you don’t want to miss!

Talent for the cruise is as follows: The Nelons, Michael English, Jeff & Sheri Easter, Karen Peck & New River, Browders, Joseph Habedank, Erwins, Amber Nelon Thompson, Jay Stone Singers, Jeff Stice, Misty Freeman, Allegiance, along with The Music City Show’s Jim Sheldon and Tim Lovelace.

In addition to the music, world-class accommodations and amenities await guests aboard Royal Caribbean’s amazing Oasis of the Seas, including an ice rink, aqua theatre, a ‘living central park,’ rock climbing walls, zip lines, and so much more.

Karen Peck and New River

Cabins start at $798.00 and are on sale now at www.themusiccityshow.com or by calling 1-855-346-7735.

For more Gospel music news click here.

WLOSGMH 2017 Convention includes the Williamsons, Freedom Quartet and more

Williamsons

The social media phenomenon We Love Our Southern Gospel Music History (WLOSGMH) is holding a social gathering. Commonly referred to as the Convention, the Facebook group administrators have announced the talent line up for the two day event.

Held March 27 and 28, 2017 at the Clarion Hotel and Convention Center in Murfreesboro, TN the talent quartets, trios, soloists, some comedy and lots of surprises that will highlight the talent portion of the convention.

The WLOSGMH Convention begins Monday, March 27th. The evening begins with a dinner concert at 5:30 pm with7:00 pm concert following. The talent includes: Ann Downing, Williamsons, Sheltons, Collectors Quartet, Charlie Griffin, Administrators Quartet, Johnny Minick and Friends, Freedom Quartet.

Freedom Quartet

Tuesday is a full day of activities! Beginning at 9:30 a.m. enjoy two video productions featuring some of the greatest gospel singing of all time. There will also be a short concert featuring some of the musicians who have joined us. This is always a fun time, because we never know who may decide to show up and entertain us. There will be instrumentalists, soloists, and possibly even a Scrap Iron Quartet or two. For those who have purchased the event package, lunch is provided.

Tuesday also features two of the convention highlights “Story Time with the Gospel Legends and Show & Tell.” During this time the collectors will also have an opportunity to show some of their classic memorabilia from the gospel singing world; while gospel music road warriors tell some of their funniest stories.

WLOSGMH Facebook Administrators (l to R) John Crenshaw, Hannah Kennedy, Ann Downing, Harold Timmons

Tuesday evening show begins at 6:00 with talent to include: Matt Felts, Harold Timmons, Jordan’s Bridge, Ann Downing, McCray Dove, Jeff Stice, Williamsons, and a special tribute to some of our favorite singers by the Administrators and Collectors.Throughout the convention, various singers, collectors, and merchants will have their wares available for purchase. This is a one of a kind event to add interesting items to your gospel music collection.

We have listed the artist websites for your convenience. Get to know them and their music. You will find a wealth of talent, music, passion and as Granny says “just good people.” Your support of these fine artists is greatly appreciated.

Jordans Bridge

ARTIST:                      WEBSITE:

Ann Downing               www.anndowning.com

Charlie Griffin              www.CharlieGriffin.net

Ellen Marsh                  www.EllenMarshMusic.com

Freedom Quartet www.freedomquartet.com

Gospel Gallery/

Harold Timmons         www.facebook.com/thegospelgallery

Jeff Stice

Jeff Stice                       www.jeffsticemusic.com

Johnny Minick             www.johnnyminick.com

Jordan’s Bridge            www.jordansbridge.com

Matt Felts                     www.facebook.com/felts3

McCray Dove               www.newdovebrothers.com

Rita Spillers                  www.facebook.com/themusiclady

The Sheltons                www.facebook.com/SheltonMusicPickensSC

The Williamsons         www.Williamsonsmusic.com

“This convention is an internet social gathering of friends.” Administrator Harold Timmons says, “It is not a time for preaching, nor politics. It is not a church service, nor a political rally. Friends are in for two nights of fine Christian entertainment.”

The Clarion Hotel is the convention headquarters. Located at 2227 Old Fort Parkway in Murfreesboro, TN. Contact the hotel at 615-896-2420 asking for the WE LOVE SOUTHERN GOSPEL MUSIC HISTORY CONVENTION ROOM DISCOUNT.

For complete fan package, concert tickets, hotel and event information visit www.facebook.com/groups/sgmhistory/.

For more Gospel music news, click here.

WLOSGMH Convention announces two-day Schedule

WLOSGMH Facebook Administrators (l to R) John Crenshaw, Hannah Kennedy, Ann Downing, Harold Timmons

People have been asking a lot of questions about the We Love Our Southern Gospel Music History (WLOSGMH) Convention. The interest created has gospel music fans driving and flying from across the states and from the Netherlands. In fact over 37,000 group members are creating the stir with gospel music fans clamoring for more music and history.

This Facebook social media gathering has become the talk of the town as interest grows among gospel music fans to know more about the history of the music, performers and the gospel music foundation. The oral history is passed down today by those “you should have been there stories”, videos, music, and collectors who share their memorabilia. Vendor booths showcase those rare one of a kind records, photos, collectibles and do-dads making it a shoppers paradise.

Those coffee or booth conversations are truly a convention highlight.

WLOSGMH administrator John Crenshaw says, “In addition to our great artists, the WLOSGMH convention will feature some great videos featuring the groups from the past. You’ll see the Statesmen, Rebels, Blackwoods, Singing Americans, Speer Family, Happy Goodmans, Rangers Trio and so many others. Many of these videos are being shown here for the first time in more than forty years.”

WLOSGMH collectors and shoppers (l to R) Paul Conner, Gayla Fooks, Brent Joiner, Aaron Rich

One of the highlights of the convention is the show and tell session. Crenshaw states, “Many collectors will bring their prized possessions to share with the group on Tuesday afternoon. Some of the legends of gospel music will share their humorous road stories. The Tuesday evening concert will feature a tribute to some of the great voices of the past. I don’t want to spoil the surprise, but you’ll laugh and cry as you enjoy this tribute.”

Activities for weekend start with members arriving early to participate in a southern gospel tradition, a Red Back Hymnal singing. “On Saturday March 25th from 6-8, many of us will be attending the 4th Annual Rutherford County Red Back Hymnal Singing at Murfreesboro Missionary Baptist Church, 316 Fortress Blvd., Murfreesboro, Tennessee, 37128.” Crenshaw continues. “Although this is not officially a part of the We Love Our Southern Gospel Music Convention, they have been very helpful to us, and we will have a special ticket offer available for those who attend the Singing. It’s a great start to the weekend!”

The WLOSGMH Convention begins Monday, March 27th. Here are some highlights:

The hotel atrium will be open for buyers and sellers at 10:00 a.m.

Check in and registration will be 3-4:30 with dinner served at 5:30. The Monday evening show begins at 7:00 with talent to include: Ann Downing, Williamsons, Sheltons, Collectors Quartet, Charlie Griffin, Administrators Quartet, Johnny Minick and Friends, Freedom Quartet

Tuesday is a full day of fun filled music and festivities! Beginning at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, you will have the opportunity to enjoy two video productions featuring some of the greatest gospel singing of all time. There will also be a short concert featuring some of the musicians who have joined us. This is always a fun time, because we never know who may decide to show up and entertain us. There will be instrumentalists, soloists, and possibly even a Scrap Iron Quartet or two. For those who have purchased the package, lunch will be provided.

Tuesday will also have “Story Time with the Gospel Legends”. The road warriors need to prepare some of their funniest stories for this unforgettable time of sharing. The collectors will also have an opportunity to show some of their classic memorabilia from the gospel singing world.

Come on down, the price right at the WLOSGMH vendor booths.

Tuesday evening show begins at 6:00 with talent to include: Matt Felts, Harold Timmons, Jordan’s Bridge, Ann Downing, McCray Dove, Jeff Stice, Williamsons, and a special tribute to some of our favorite singers by the Administrators and Collectors.

Come on down, the price right at the WLOSGMH vendor booths.

Throughout the convention, various singers, collectors, and merchants will have their wares available for purchase. This is a one of a kind event to add interesting items to your gospel music collection.

“This convention is an internet social gathering of friends.” Administrator Harold Timmons says, “It is not a time for preaching, nor politics. It is not a church service, nor a political rally. Friends are in for two nights of fine Christian entertainment.”

The Clarion Hotel is the convention headquarters. Located at 2227 Old Fort Parkway in Murfreesboro, TN. Contact the hotel at 615-896-2420 asking for the WE LOVE SOUTHERN GOSPEL MUSIC HISTORY CONVENTION ROOM DISCOUNT.

For complete fan package, concert tickets, hotel and event information visit www.facebook.com/groups/sgmhistory/.  

For more Gospel music news click here.

Urgent Prayer From Jeff Stice

Urgent Prayer From Jeff Stice

An urgent prayer request has been made for the father of  Gospel Artist Jeff Stice.

Please pray earnestly that God will intervene in the situation.

More information will come as it is available.

Find More News HERE

Third Annual WLOSGMH Convention March 27 and 28, 2017

WLOSGMH: “You Should’ve Been There” Memories in the Making!

Third Annual WLOSGMH Convention March 27 and 28

I first became acquainted with gospel music as a child. It has kind of been in the family since I can remember. Momma Doris (my grandmother), Aunt Dolly Shirley and my Mom (playing piano too) sang in the Morning Star Trio every Sunday morning for the Morning Star Hour radio program on WATA Radio in Boone, NC. Pastor Ross Greene delivered the fiery message back in the day. Then I saw the Harvesters Quartet with Bill Hefner, Mac Evans, Don Norman, Jack Clark and Bob Thacker at homecoming. Over the years they became friends. And the music love affair began.

Sego Brothers and Naomi

I remember the first time I heard the Sego Brothers and Naomi. They were the feature group at the Singing at Grandfather Mountain hosted by Arthur Smith and the Crossroads Quartet. What a singing! What a crowd of artists and fans. I would stand and wonder what the groups were talking about behind their record tables.

Then we got a black and white TV. Sunday mornings on Charlotte’s WBTV we would see the legends of gospel music on the infamous Gospel Singing Jubilee hosted by the renowned Florida Boys. I remember sneaking into the living room and cutting the TV down really low and watching the Happy Goodmans, Dixie Echoes (loved me some Dale Shelnut), LeFevres, Segos, Rambos, Inspirations, Marksmen Qt, Hinsons and a host of other popular groups.

Read more »

The Nelons and Jeff Stice participate in a Final Fast Five for 2016 with SGNScoops

Nelons and Jeff Stice NYE 2016

By Lorraine Walker

On December 31, 2016, SGNScoops was in the audience to participate in a New Year’s Eve concert with the Nelons and Jeff Stice. It was a tremendous evening of music as each artist opened up and delivered the best of their skills and talents to an appreciative audience.

Afterward, we were able to talk to the artists and quiz them with an SGNScoops’ Fast Five:

Lorraine: What is your main goal for 2017?

Jeff Stice: As I get older, I really truly do just want to finish well; whatever I can do, to do improve

Nelons and Jeff Stice NYE 2016

myself as a person. I’m not into the whole performance thing. Jesus died on a cross for me and said, “It is finished!” I don’t have to earn my way into anything anymore but why would I not want to try and live a better life. I want to keep working on my music and enjoying my family. I’m  just waiting to see what He has open for me next! He overwhelms me everyday.

Kelly Nelon Clark: My main goal is to spend time with my family and do things that are important to us as a family, not always the business. I wrote about this on Facebook the other day. I want to spend time thinking about our accomplishments, being thankful for what the Lord has allowed me to do; and to take more time with our family.

Amber Nelon Thompson: My main goal is to drink more water. I drink too many sodas.

Nelons and Jeff Stice NYE 2016

Autumn Nelon Clark: I really want to get in shape. I say that every year but this year I really want to do it. When I go to the gym and I leave out of breath, I know that I’m not in shape.

Jason Clark: I want to rest in God’s provision. I’ve asked God to take me to new places. We’ve been blessed with a wonderful platform that has sustained itself for 40 years. I’ve asked God to do new things in our ministry. He has already begun to start some works that are brand new, whether it’s the film industry or the documentary industry, where we are doing some things, telling some stories. We are doing an Americana Tour. Forty-something cities have already booked us. It’s basically a non-Christian crowd. So God is already answering that prayer: “Lord, I’m an open door right now, I want you to just use me. If it means in a nursing home on a Saturday afternoon, or if it means into a brand new audience that’s never heard the Gospel story, I’m ready.” So we’re just open. It’s exciting.

Nelons and Jeff Stice NYE 2016

Lorraine: What is your favorite City?

Kelly: My favorite city is Honolulu!

Amber: My favorite city is Atlanta, where I’m from. My other favorite city would be New York. I love New York City, especially at Christmas time.

Autumn: New York. Love it so much!

Jason: New York City is amazing, but if I want to relax, I have to go to Hawaii. We just had two weeks in Oahu and I have to say that is the most relaxed I have ever been. It was like I was in another world.

Jeff: I love Toronto/Hamilton area, I love New York, I love Orlando; I don’t know if I have a favorite. And then I like little towns like Shipshewana IN. My favorite vacation destination would probably be Florida. I’ve got kids, so they like Disney, Universal, the beach, etc.

Lorraine: What is your favorite way to exercise?

Amber: I love basketball. Very fast-paced, fast-moving. We won the State Championship in my senior year (of high school) and then I got offered a full scholarship to play for the State of Georgia but I turned it down because I wanted to sing more than I wanted to play basketball. Go Kentucky Wildcats!

Autumn: I run. Yes, I am one of those.

Jason: I’m a walker. Every day I walk. When I began to have those (chest pains), the doctor said, “You need to start walking.” I was trying to run and it was hurting my knees. You know who else is a walker? Bill Gaither, who has really encouraged me. When we are out on the road (together), we walk. I can’t hardly keep up with the guy! It’s unbelievable the pace that he keeps. It has truly inspired me because I see the enthusiasm and energy he has at 81, so I want to have that. Diet and walking is a big part of that, so he tells me, and I want to have that.

Jeff: I run. I love running. I’m 56 and I’m trying my best to outrun Old Age but ‘he’s’ so fast!

Kelly: Walking.

Nelons and Jeff Stice NYE 2016

Lorraine: What is your favorite book, or what book are you reading now?

Autumn: A book called “Uninvited.” (Christian non-fiction by Lysa TerKeurst).

Jason: I just started reading a book I read every January first. It’s called “The Adventures of Spirit-filled Giving,” by Bill Stafford. It’s basically teaching us that if we are just merely tithing, we are only paying a debt. God wants us to give without expecting anything in return. When you begin to open up your heart and give in this way what the Lord has already given to us, he says it unleashes a lifetime of adventure and the flow of the Holy Spirit through us. When God can trust us with more resources than we need… Sometimes we know what we need and we hang on to it. God says the righteous will never be begging for bread. We are always going to have what we need if we hang on to God. God wants to give us more than we need, if He can trust that we will be a conduit and allow that to flow through us to others. That’s basically the teaching of that book. It’s a small book but I like to be reminded of that concept. I want to be generous in my time, generous in my spirit and in my compassion for others, especially for those who can’t give anything in return. That book really challenges me so I’m reading it again.

Jeff: “Abba’s Child,” by Brennan Manning.

Kelly: “Grace Awakening.”(Charles Swindoll).

Amber: Right now I’m reading a book called, “Hurting People Hurt People.” (Joyce Meyers). I’m getting my Masters degree in Counseling, and that book is required. I’ve been reading it and it is SO good. I encourage everyone to read it.

Nelons and Jeff Stice NYE 2016

Lorraine: What is your favorite Parable or Scripture verse?

Jason: I’m really intrigued by the Parable of the Sower. I was just reading that a couple of days ago. The seeds that we plant and the different ground that Jesus was teaching about. He said we are going to cast that seed, just throw it out there. But sometimes, it will be discouraging because we won’t see the fruit, or anything tangible. That is just how we are wired. We want to see the blessing now; we want to see the provision now. To see whatever that is, right before us. Even with the Children of Israel. They wanted a King, and God said, “No, I’m your King!” But they said, “No we want to see someone on the throne!” He said, “Well, I will give him to you, but he is going to tax you and you are going to work in his barns, filling his coffers.” They had to endure a lot of hardship because they couldn’t trust the unseen hand of God. So the Parable of the Sower helps us to trust. Just cast your seed out there and let God do what He’s going to do. There are going to be times when we aren’t going to see the return. But then there are times that seed lands on fertile soil and it begins to take root, bloom and blossom, blessing others. That’s a great way to live. We can’t be discouraged when we don’t see it. So many seeds were planted in that parable and only one type of soil was fertile.

Jeff: My favorite Scripture is Psalm 130, verse 7. “Hope in the Lord, for in the Lord there is mercy and with Him there is abundant redemption.” I hang my hat on that every day.

Kelly: I love the parable of the Prodigal Son. My favorite Scripture is Jeremiah 29:11. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” We have hope!

Amber: I love the Good Samaritan because I think we need more of that in today’s time; people who show kindness. We need more kindness right now.

Autumn: “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3) There are times in my life when I feel brokenhearted; you’ve been through a breakup or one of your family members dies. I can always open up my Bible and know that God is always there. He will heal my broken heart.

Thanks to all of The Nelons and to Jeff Stice for participating in a NYE Fast Five for SGNScoops! It was great to hear your hearts on the last day of 2016. 

For more on Jeff Stice, click here.

For more on The Nelons, click here.

For more Gospel music news, click here.

Amber Nelon Thompson is featured in the January issue of SGNScoops. Available soon on SGNScoops.

The Nelons and Jeff Stice appear in Hamilton, Ontario on New Year’s Eve

The Nelons at Hamilton ON on NYE ’16

By Lorraine Walker

New Year’s Eve at Bethel Gospel Tabernacle in Hamilton, Ontario, has become known as a must-see evening of music. Every year a different artist is presented by the church and the audience responds, filling the auditorium with applause and appreciation. December 31, 2016, was no different. The Nelons and Jeff Stice took the stage amid the Christmas trees and spotlights, sharing their faith and talent with a crowd of 700.

Kelly Nelon Clark and her husband Jason, daughters Amber and Autumn, along with pianist Jeff Stice gave the audience a full evening of current songs, hymns and Christmas favorites. They began with tunes from their latest albums Stronger Together and Family Harmony. Songs featuring each

Jeff Stice at Hamilton ON on NYE ’16

member were interspersed with specials by the award-winning Jeff Stice. The audience joined in on familiar Christmas and Gospel songs, encouraged by emcee Jason Clark. A special, nostalgic moment occurred when the auditorium grew dark and the spotlight shone down on Kelly performing “A Christmas In December.”

Rex Nelon, Kelly’s father, formed the Rex Nelon Singers in 1977, formerly the LeFevres. Kelly was singing alto for the group at that time, and now – forty years later – she is still standing strong as the matriarch of the Nelons. Kelly remains sweet, approachable and caring, even taking time from the group’s repertoire to sing “Happy Birthday” to my father who was turning 91 years old. Thanks Kelly!

Kelly Nelon Clark at Hamilton ON

As a Nelons fan since the late ‘80’s when the group included Karen Peck and Jerry Thompson and frequently visited southern Ontario and northern New York State, I was excited to hear this group on their own where they might showcase each individuals’ skill. Kelly’s voice remains as true and soft as it did decades ago, owing in part to her regular vocal exercises. Amber is one of, if not ‘the’, preeminent vocalists of her generation in Christian music. With a clear, expressive tone retaining the bluegrass background of her dad, Autumn charmed the crowd on one of her few solo songs. Jason Clark was disarming with his down-to-earth delivery belying his ability to sing several octaves. I can’t wait to hear the music this family produces in the future as they continue to develop their own sound.

Autumn Nelon Clark and Jason Clark

It was great to see Jeff Stice again, since he had last appeared at Bethel Gospel Tabernacle in December 2013 with Triumphant. Those fingers can certainly burn up the keyboard! Whether accompanying the Nelons or doing a solo feature, Jeff showed the crowd that he deserves every award and nomination he has earned.

The Nelons completed the evening with Amber singing “Auld Lang Syne,” along with the audience, while Nelons’ members captured the closing event on Facebook Live. The ballad turned into a barn-burner with “I’ll Fly Away.” The Nelon ladies certainly let it fly in this last song as Jason led the audience. You can find it on The Nelons page here. 

I’m sure all the attendees would join my family and I in saying that this was a

Amber Nelon Thompson

Autumn Nelon Clark

Jeff Stice

Autumn Nelon Clark

Jason Clark

concert to remember. Happy 2017!