Southern Gospel News SGNScoops Digital

This Week on Good News Music Radio with Woody Wright! Airs January 23, 2015 through January 29, 2015

Good News Music with Woody Wright

This week’s program on “Good News Music Radio with Woody Wright” features Part 2 of our interview with Paul Lancaster of The Booth Brothers and music from Jason Crabb, Jeff & Sheri Easter, The Hoppers, Brian Free & Assurance, The Gaither Vocal Band, Palmetto State Quartet, Reggie & Ladye Love Smith, Willie Wynn and MORE!

Gospel Music Today On SGNScoops.com

Country music legend Larry Gatlin talks about his gospel music roots on Gospel Music Today for the week of January 26. Ken and Jean Grady host southern gospel news and concert updates, the Feature Group is The Spiritual Voices, and Jean reviews a new recording by Chris Hayle. An article about the top songs of 2013 is the subject of this week’s Singing News Notes. Palmetto State Quartet and The Skyline Boys Quartet sing, and the show includes exclusive video of The Missourians, recorded by Gospel Music Today’s cameras at the Southern Gospel Worship Gathering, in Broken Arrow, OK, and a visit to the Gospel Music Today Archives for an exclusive concert video of Mark 209.

Palmetto State Ends, Glass Temple Begins

NASHVILLE, TN: Larry Strickland, owner of Palmetto State Quartet, one of the longest running male quartets still touring and recording announced today that he will be retiring along with plans to retire
the Palmetto State Quartet name. However, if you have been a fan of the group in the past few years,
you’ll be glad to know that the existing members (Jeremy Easley, David Staton and DaRon Maughon) will continue on under a new name. As of October 1, the group will be known as GLASS TEMPLE, with a new recording to be released later this year.

Since the formation of Palmetto State Quartet in the 1940’s, the group has been known for musical excellence, having had legendary names in gospel music come through its doors as members. In recent
years with Larry Strickland acquiring the group, the music and style of the group definitely changed. The group has toured with The Judds and been seen on television and tour with country music superstar,
Wynonna Judd. The group naturally evolved into a more commercial sound. Much of this change in
sound in the last couple of years was due to the singers that became Palmetto State Quartet. According
to Larry Strickland, “I just found the best singers out there and allowed them to be themselves. As
a result, I believe I have assembled the best group that gospel music has heard in a long time. I have
encouraged them to continue under a new name because it would be a shame for these guys to stop
because I’m retiring. I love and fully support these guys!”

According to group member, David Staton, “I have never met anyone who loves to sing and has a
passion for this music like Larry does. We are going to miss having him on the road, but if it’s at all
possible, you may just see Larry show up at some of our dates. Larry is one of the few true living legends in gospel music and we have been honored to stand next to him and sing. Touring with Elvis,
managing The Judds and Wynonna and taking gospel music to a world stage as he has done is more than
most will ever accomplish in a lifetime.”

Cards, congratulations and well wishes can be sent to Larry at P.O Box 1327, Franklin, TN 37065. If you’d like to schedule an event with Glass Temple, you can email david@songgardenmusicgroup.com or call
615-385-4166. Ext. 22

LARRY STRICKLAND ANNOUNCES MAJOR CHANGE

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — May 8, 2013 — Larry Strickland, owner of Palmetto State Quartet, has announced a major change for the legendary quartet. It was announced today that the popular vocal ensemble will undergo a name change in the coming weeks. The change comes at a time when Strickland sees the group evolving. “We feel that this is the perfect time to make a name change since we have had vocal changes in our group recently” stated Strickland. “The talent and sound that has come together is exciting! We still have the close harmony, but also this group can deliver unique, modern vocal arrangements for our time. We’ve spent months writing new material, working in the studio and can’t wait to premier our new music to radio and our fans!”

So, what’s the new name? “Well, we don’t really know,” says Strickland, with a laugh. “We need some help, so we are going to our friends and fans, the ones who come to our concerts, to ask for their input. ”

Beginning today, May 8, 2013 through May 29, 2013, fans can submit their suggestions for the new name of the group to NameTheGroup@gmail.com. The brand-new name will be announced on June 3, 2013. The winning entry that is chosen will receive the following as a “thank you” from Larry Strickland and members of the group:
$500 Cash Prize
Front Row seats to any upcoming concert
Meet-and-Greet before a concert
The first copy of the new CD, autographed
Autographed Picture
The group is currently in the studio finishing their new project and a tour will be launched in conjunction with the recording release. “These are greatly exciting times,” says Larry. “I love Southern Gospel Music and I am looking forward to the next phase of this group!”

Palmetto State Quartet is booked exclusively through BSA/Beckie Simmons Agency. Beckie Simmons states ” This is the perfect time for the name change with this Quartet. We are behind them 100% and looking forward to taking this journey with Larry Strickland and PSQ for the future!” For further information call 615-595-7500 or visit www.bsaworld.com.

Dixie Melody Boys Claim Numerous Top Honors At SGM Fan Awards

SongGardn Music artists, The Dixie Melody Boys solidified their rise back to the top of Southern Gospel at last nights Southern Gospel Fan Awards held in Pigeon Forge, TN. The SGM Fan Awards are presented by the Christian Voice Magazine and honor the best in Southern Gospel music as chosen by the fans. The night was filled with great performances by the Dixie Melody Boys, Palmetto State Quartet, the Hemphills, Phil Cross, the Diplomats and many more.
The Dixie Melody Boys received the most Top 5 Nominations of any group with eleven nominations including Favorite Album, Song and Video. Hall of fame member Ed O’Neal took home the Favorite Bass Singer award for the second year in a row. Steven Cooper won the Favorite Baritone award. “We are so happy for Steven. As many know, he will be stepping down soon so to have the fans honor him and his five years with us this way is wonderful.” said Ed O’Neal. Mike Rogers, who has been with the group just under a year was also honored by being nominated in the Top 5 for Favorite Lead Singer and Young Excelling Artist. Matt Felts won the Favorite Tenor Award having made the Top 5 two years in a row. “Just to be on the list with men like Michael Booth, David Phelps, Brian Free and Jeff Hawes is a huge honor. These men are my heroes. I am so grateful that God has allowed me to sing for him.” said Matt Felts. Ending the night on a high note, the Dixie Melody Boys won Favorite Male Quartet for the second year in a row.
The last two years have shown the Dixie Melody Boys are riding high again with no signs of slowing down. To learn more check them out at http://www.dixiemelodyboys.com/

February 2013 Editon Of SGNScoops Magazine

We are excited to present February’s edition of SGNScoops Magazine. On the cover this month is a name we’ve all grown to love over the years, “The Nelons!” We’re sure you’ll be blessed as the Nelons share about their legacy, family and ministry. Also this month, we’re highlighting the ministries of The Browders, Midnight Cry and Lindsay Huggins as well as Tommy Brandt, Jimmy Davis and Gerald Crabb. Enjoy concert stories on Palmetto State Quartet and a get replay of recent concert with Wes Hampton and Marshall Hall. Sandi Duncan Clark reviews February’s music, John Mathis has a spiritual challenge and Lou Hildreth shares more great memories. We are officially announcing the opening date for round one nominations for Diamond Awards is February 18th! The Diamond Awards will be held at the Creekside Gospel Music Convention in Pigeon Forge, TN. Get the latest news on Creekside in this issue as well. We are welcoming a few new writers this month! Make sure you let Dixie Phillips, Eva Wilson and Susan Werchonowicz know you appreciate them as well as the rest of our dedicated and talented staff. Special thanks to Sherri Whitt for sharing a concert experience. Remember, SGNScoops All Digital Magazine is free! Please share with your friends, family and fans!

Download SGNScoops Magazine Here

Palmetto State Celebrates Number One Song

NASHVILLE, TN:  The all new vocal line up of Palmetto State was in the studio this week working on a brand new project.  The session was interrupted when Beckie Simmons, Dixie McKeithen and Melinda Hames from BSA World stopped by to celebrate the group’s recent success.  The charts in both Cashbox Magazine and Christian Voice Magazine have group’s radio single, “Moment of Grace” in the number one spot for the month of July and August.   According to group member, Paul Lancaster, “Moment of Grace is such a great song.  Every night we watch people connect with the message.  It just really gets to the heart of what Christianity is all about.  In spite of all of our faults or what we’ve done wrong, it only takes a moment to have an encounter with God’s love and that can forever change everything”.   The new Palmetto State project will be released by the end of this year.

Photo Info:

(Pictured from left to right, back row:  Palmetto State’s Casey Martin, Paul Lancaster, Jeremy Easley, Mike Allen, Larry Strickland & David Staton.  Front row: BSA World’s Melinda Hames, Beckie Simmons & Dixie McKeithen)

WOODY WRIGHT AND ELECTRIC STATION RECORDS WELCOME AN EXCITING ARTIST LINEUP FOR THEIR 2ND ANNUAL “GOOD NEWS MUSIC RADIO CONCERT” AT THE PALACE THEATER IN LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2012

ALEXANDRIA, IND (September 1, 2012) – Woody Wright and Electric Station Records are excited to present an exciting artist lineup for their 2nd annual “Good News Music Radio” concert at the Palace Theater in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, October 27, 2012!

“To say we’re excited about this year’s lineup would be an understatement,” said E-Station Records President, D. Scott Kramer. “This concert will showcase some of the best vocalists, groups, musicians and songwriters in gospel music today. The event is designed to highlight each artist at their very best for an unbelievably, inspiring evening. The entire concert is also built within the framework of our syndicated radio show and it will include entertaining and inspiring elements found in our weekly radio programs,” Kramer added.

The artist lineup joining Woody & Vonnie Wright includes:

Russ Taff

5 time Grammy Award Winning Artist hailed by Billboard Magazine as one of the most dynamic voices in gospel music today. Russ will be sharing several of his most well-known hits including, “He Came Through”, “They Call It Gospel Music”, “Bethlehem, Galilee and Gethsemane” and “Here Comes Jesus”, which is from his latest Dove Award Nominated project, Faroe Islands.

Jeff & Sheri Easter

With us for the first time this year, Jeff & Sheri Easter will be joined onstage by daughter, Morgan and son, Madison as they share several of their best-loved songs including. “Life Is Great and Getting’ Better”, “Over and Over”, “Praise His Name” and “Hear My Heart”. One of gospel music’s favorite families, the Easters have won five Gospel Music Association Dove Awards and have also received a Grammy nomination. They’ve also participated in the Gaither Homecoming Video Series since 1993, which has sold over 15 million units.
Buddy Greene & Jeff Taylor

Musician, singer-songwriter, Buddy Greene and his great friend, Jeff Taylor, will be bringing their extraordinary talent to the Good News Music Radio Concert for the second year in a row. Buddy brings a wide variety of southern Americana influences to his music to create a unique musical hybrid of country, bluegrass, folk, Gospel and traditional blues. In addition to his solid reputation as a singer-songwriter and guitarist, Buddy has established himself as one of Nashville’s finest harmonica stylists. Buddy & Jeff will be sharing favorites such as, “Walking In Jerusalem”, Classical Medley (Buddy’s amazing harmonica arrangement performed at Gaither’s Carnegie Hall Homecoming with over 2,500,000 views on YouTube), and Buddy’s mega hit co-write with Mark Lowery, “Mary Did You Know”!

Palmetto State Quartet

The Palmetto State Quartet’s newest lineup featuring, Larry Strickland (former Stamps member backing Elvis Presley), Paul Lancaster (multiple Dove Award winner and former member of the Martins), Mike Allen (a fixture on the popular Gaither Homecoming television series), David Staton (Grammy-nominated songwriter, singer and producer), Jeremy Easley (the X-Factor season-one, top-15
finalist) and Casey Martin (keyboards) will be joining us for the first time this year. While featuring many of their latest hits including, “Moment of Grace”, Don’t That Sound Like Heaven”, “All Hail The Power”, and “Holy Ghost Revival”, this super-group’s vocal artistry is sure to shine throughout the evening!

Reggie & Ladye Love Smith

Back for the second year in a row is one of the most dynamic couples in gospel music today, Reggie & Ladye Love Smith! The Smiths have been a part of the Gaither Homecoming family for over a decade, first as back-up singers in Nashville and later as a vocal duet featured on countless Homecoming concerts, tapings and recordings. These internationally loved musicians have performed in more than 12 countries and in such prestigious venues as the Super Bowl, New York’s famed Carnegie Hall, the Kremlin in Moscow and The Grand Ole Opry! Our guests are sure to be delighted by their great sound on classics like, “Can He, Could He, Would He” and the inspiring ballad, “You Raise Me Up”!

Rachel West Kramer & Jairo Arvizu

Back for the second year as well is Christian recording artist, Rachel West Kramer and her tenor duet partner, Jairo Arvizu. With four CDs produced in as many years and two, brand new arrangements of “The Battle Hymn Of The Republic” and “The LORD’S Prayer” by award winning arranger, David Clydesdale, the audience is sure to be delighted after hearing the amazing soprano range of Rachel West Kramer! Rachel had the honor of singing at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington D.C. with President and First Lady Bush in attendance. She also charted at the number one slot for 13 non-consecutive weeks on Christian Radio Weekly’s Inspirational charts with “See What A Morning”! We’re excited for everyone to hear, Rachel West Kramer and Jairo Arvizu!

A Tribute to Founding Oak Ridge Boys Member, Willie Wynn

From rural Moultrie, Georgia, Willie Wynn is one of gospel music’s most beloved personalities. After joining Wally Fowler’s Oak Ridge Quartet in the late fifties, Willie was a founding member when the group became the Oak Ridge Boys. The Oaks won numerous Dove and Grammy Awards and Willie became famous for his super-high tenor voice on hit songs like, “Jesus Is Coming Soon”, “Know”, “After Calvary”, and many others. Willie left the Oak Ridge Boys in the early seventies and after a brief stint as tenor for Hovie Lister and The Statesmen, he started his own successful group, Willie Wynn & The Tennesseans. Willie was inducted into the Gospel Music Association’s Hall of Fame with the Oaks and is a member of the Southern Gospel Music Association’s Hall of Fame as an individual. The ultimate “encourager,” Willie is known as the man with a million friends. He has made an undeniably positive impact on gospel music and it is truly a privilege to pay tribute to Little Willie Wynn!

And, as an added bonus, our audience members will be part of a live concert, high-definition, DVD / Video production!  Award-winning Yake Films from Nashville, TN will be on site recording the concert event!

“Good News Music Radio with Woody Wright” has now been added by nearly 150 stations and translators worldwide. While the majority of the stations are in the US and Canada, some of the international locations include stations in England, Scotland, Grenada, Aruba, Guam, Republic of Vanuatu and New Zealand.

For more information on “Good New Music Radio with Woody Wright”, please visit:

www.GoodNewsMusicRadio.com

For tickets and information on the “Good News Music Radio with Woody Wright” concert at the Palace Theater in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, October 27, 2012, please visit:  www.louisvillepalace.com or call (800) 745-3000

42nd Annual Seminole Gospel Sing!

Plans are underway for the 42nd Annual Seminole Gospel Sing! The Seminole Music Park, one mile south of Seminole Oklahoma, is the site of Oklahoma’s largest gospel music event, hosted by The Gospel Station Network and the Seminole Gospel Singing Association.

This year’s talent line-up is great, with some of the legends of gospel AND several new quality artists, including: The Dove Brothers, The Freemans, The Williamsons, Chris Hester, The LeFevers, The Blackwood Brothers, The Chuck Wagon Gang, Charlotte Richie, Gordon Mote, The Nelons, Masters Voice, Palmetto State Quartet, and Gold City.   Save $10 on Tickets if you buy them before August 13th at www.TheGospelStation.com

Over the years, the Seminole Sing and the Konawa OK Gospel Singing have attracted people from all over the U.S.  – people who love real gospel music – people who believe in the message of Jesus Christ, and love this style of singing.  “We are honored to be working with the association in Seminole to keep this wonderful singing alive and moving forward.  God is working all over the world through Gospel Music and we feel so blessed to be a part of it,” said Randall Christy, President of The Gospel Station Network.

Palmetto State Headlines Concert during Nashville’s CMA Music Festival

NASHVILLE, TN:  Palmetto State will be the featured artist at the Country Gospel Tonight concert this Friday, June 8 at the War Memorial Auditorium down town Nashville.  With tens of thousands of country music fans from around the world coming into Nashville for the week long CMA Music Festival, Palmetto State will bring their unique style and sound of gospel music to the country music world.  Palmetto State bass singer and manager, Larry Strickland stated, “Country Music and Gospel Music have always had close ties.  When you hear any artist that really showcases their harmony, more than likely, they have a history in gospel music.  I think when country music fans see and hear what country and gospel music have in common, they are likely to become gospel music fans.”   Strickland traveled and sang back up with Elvis Presley and is married to country music superstar, Naomi Judd.  Palmetto State toured with The Judds during their Final Encore tour in 2010 and has since performed on select dates with Wynonna.  The new Palmetto State song, “Moment of Grace” holds the number one position on the country gospel chart in the June issue of Christian Voice Magazine.  The concert event will start at 7:00 PM this Friday.  Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.