Southern Gospel News SGNScoops Digital

LARRY GATLIN REACTS TO PASSING OF LONGTIME FRIEND, PRESIDENT GEORGE H.W. BUSH

The Gatlin Brothers with George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush at the
former president’s inauguration (1989)
(Pictured left to right: Larry Gatlin, George H.W. Bush, Barbara Bush, Rudy Gatlin, Steve Gatlin)

Nashville, Tenn. (December 1, 2018) – This morning, Larry Gatlin of legendary country music group Larry, Steve & Rudy: The Gatlin Brothers, released the following statement on the passing of former United States president, George H.W. Bush:

“I first met president George H.W. Bush in 1964 when Steve, Rudy and I sang for his congressional run. He lost. Later when he became vice-president, I walked up to him in the White House to say hello. He stuck out his hand and said, ‘Hey Larry Gatlin… you’re one of those little snotty nose kids who sang for my campaign in Odessa in 1964.’ I said, ‘Yessir, I am.’ He said, ‘It worked out better this time. We won!’ Rest in peace, old friend.” -Larry Gatlin

The Gatlin Brothers became close friends of the former president, performing on his behalf on the campaign trail, at his inauguration in 1989, and multiple times at the White House and the historic Ford Theatre in Washington D.C.

Bush passed away on Friday, November 30. He was 94.

Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers

About Larry, Steve & Rudy: The Gatlin Brothers

The close family harmonies of Larry, Steve & Rudy: The Gatlin Brothers have given the trio a signature sound that led to country classics like “All The Gold In California” and “Houston (Means I’m One Day Closer To You).” The brothers won a GRAMMY® for their 1976 breakthrough hit, “Broken Lady,” and reached #1 with several other songs soon thereafter. Along with five career nominations for the ACM Vocal Group, the Gatlin Brothers picked up three 1979 trophies: Single of the Year (“All The Gold In California”), Album of the Year (Straight Ahead) and Male Vocalist of the Year for Larry Gatlin. The brothers were also nominated for multiple CMA Awards including Vocal Group of the Year, Single of the Year, and Entertainer of the Year. Larry Gatlin has written songs recorded by Elvis Presley, Glen Campbell, Barbra Streisand, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Dottie West, Roy Orbison, Barry Gibb and countless Gospel artists including the Gaither Vocal Band, the Booth Brothers, the Isaacs and many more. After 63 years of music, the brothers continue to perform nearly 100 live concert dates each year.

For more information on the Gatlin Brothers, visit gatlinbrothers.com.

MARK209 INVITED FOR IMPROMPTU CONCERT FOR BOTH BUSH PRESIDENTS AT THE BUSH COMPOUND IN MAINE

Mark209 at Bush Compound. Left to right first row – President George H.W. Bush, First Lady Barbara Bush – Left to right second row- Nathaniel Justice, Dustin Hood, First Lady Laura Bush, President George W. Bush, Jym Howe and Ray Woconish. Photo Credit: Evan F. Sisley, Aide to President Bush

HENDERSONVILLE, TN – Christian music artist, MARK209 based out of Nashville, TN was invited yesterday evening to do an impromptu concert at the home of President George H.W. and First Lady Barbara Bush at the Bush Compound in Kennebunkport, ME.

MARK209 was in the middle of a 23 Day New England Tour and this was their only scheduled day off as they were planning to spend time sightseeing and touring the area when the opportunity presented itself for them to sing a song while touring the Bush Compound for Margaret Bush, an accomplished singer and actress. After leaving the property they were continuing their tour and received a call inviting them back to do a concert that evening for The Bush Family.

The Bush Family enjoying MARK209 during live impromptu concert at the Bush Compound in Kennebunkport, ME. Photo Credit: Evan F. Sisley, Aide to President Bush

“Only a handful of people get the opportunity to sing for distinguished people let alone Presidents and today we were humbled by the opportunity to sing for not only one, but two Presidents at their private residence,” shares Jym Howe, lead singer for MARK209.

They sang several songs including Amazing Grace, Sweet, Sweet, Spirit, Crying In The Chapel and even Elvira by special request. Among those attending the concert were President George H.W. and First Lady Barbara Bush, President George W. and First Lady Laura Bush, Marvin and Margaret Bush, Doro and granddaughter Georgia.

Nathaniel, tenor singer for MARK209 shares, “When we came to the door, we were greeted by President George W. Bush. I was humbled by their gratitude, generosity, and willingness to invite us, someone they did not know, into their home last minute.” Before leaving, the guys were asked by President George H.W. Bush about returning to perform a full concert sometime in the future.

MARK209 just recently signed a booking and management deal with April Potter Agency and will be in the studio working on a new project later this fall.

For more information on MARK209, you can visit their website here or April Potter Agency at www.apotteragency.com or call April Potter Agency at 615.479.0954.

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