Southern Gospel News SGNScoops Digital

Great News For RFD-TV And The Music City Show

RFD TV

Nashville, TN – A larger share of the viewing audience is always great news for a television network and spectacular news for a television program. RFD-TV has announced the merger with AT&T U-Verse for distribution of their programming. This takes RFD-TV to a new level of viewership and skyrockets ‘The Music City Show’ to a host of new homes to see the value and entertainment of Gospel music.

RFD-TV’s Patrick Gottsch stated “This is one of the proudest moments in the history of RFD-TV. Today, I am so pleased to announce to you first that AT&T U-Verse has launched RFD-TV as a basic channel on their 200 package which adds over 5.4 million homes to our distribution, taking RFD-TV past the 46 million barrier. RFD-TV is now on channel 568 on U-Verse. FamilyNet continues to be on channel 566. RFD HD will be launched by U-Verse as soon as space can be cleared, but no later than the end of this year.”

This is a major accomplishment is this day and age with the challenges of mergers, limited bandwidth, and independent channels being dropped by cable systems all around the country. More than anything else, this is a tribute to RFD-TV’s programmers and programming which combined with the passion of our audience for rural, family-oriented programming has proven to be an unbeatable force capable of doing the “impossible”.

Programming like ‘The Music City Show’ are prime examples of how clean family and even Christian music entertainment is more attractive now than ever to mainstream television. Scott Godsey, ‘The Music City Show’ producer commented “We are proud to be a part of the RFD-TV network and are so grateful to them for allowing Gospel music to be a vital part of their programming.”

No other channel gets so much support from its audience. To have over 57,000 of the 75,000 public comments to the FCC in the Comcast/Time Warner merger, and to date over 95% of the AT&T/DIRECTV public comments to the FCC about the importance of rural programming is making the strongest possible statement at this most critical time. The national press that RFD-TV has been receiving because of these public comments is having such a positive effect on our unique, grassroots situation.

Patrick Gottsch continued “I also want to thank the executives at AT&T and U-Verse. Unlike Comcast, since the review hearings at both the House & Senate, AT&T has sincerely worked hard to first understand the concerns of rural America, and take those concerns seriously. AT&T did so in a most expeditious manner. To go from our first meetings just a few months ago to an actual launch today is a real testament to AT&T’s commitment of being a partner with RFD-TV to better serve the needs and interests of rural America.”

This is a huge step forward, but only a step. We still have a lot of work to do. However, I firmly believe that this announcement with AT&T U-Verse will help our efforts to get RFD-TV’s distribution expanded and secured with the other carriers throughout this great nation.

RFD-TV will continue to keep all updated as news develops on the mergers. But, in the meantime, please be sure to tell your friends and neighbors that RFD-TV is now on AT&T U-Verse channel 568.

To learn more about ‘The Music City Show’ go to http://themusiccityshow.com or https://www.facebook.com/themusiccityshow .

Chuck Wagon Gang Releases New Album and Historic Documentary

(Pictured L-R) Ken Harding (New Haven Records), Stan Hill, Julie Hudson (Chuck Wagon Gang), Marty Stuart (Executive Producer), Shaye Smith, Jeremy Stephens (Chuck Wagon Gang), Allan Hardin (New Haven Records)

Franklin, Tenn – New Haven Records is excited to announce two new releases by the legendary country gospel music group the Chuck Wagon Gang. These releases include a new album, Meeting in Heaven–The Chuck Wagon Gang Sing the Songs of Marty Stuart and historic documentary, titled America’s Gospel Singers, The Legacy Lives On.

Meeting in Heaven is a collection of new gospel songs written and produced by country music legend, Marty Stuart. Iconic musician and historian reflects, “After getting to know the group, I found myself writing an entire album for them–songs I hope will form a new legacy for the current Chuck Wagon Gang.” Stuart continues, “Although they live in the shadow of a titanic body of work created by their ancestors, there is no doubt in my mind the current group will make a mighty and long-lasting contribution to the storied history of the Chuck Wagon Gang.”

The full length DVD, America’s Gospel Singers, the Legacy Lives On chronicles the 75- year history of the Chuck Wagon Gang through rare family photos and videos, poignant personal stories, old recordings and new live performances. The DVD features special appearances by Connie Smith, Merle Haggard, Eddie Stubbs, the Oak Ridge Boys and Charlie Daniels. The project was developed by Marty Stuart and filmed by world-renowned photographer Jack Spencer.

“The Chuck Wagon Gang has impacted so many souls throughout the years and we are honored to have the privilege of working with them on these projects,” Ken Harding, president of New Haven Records said. “We are excited to see how these new projects touch the hearts of their new and long-time fans.”

Update From Gold City About Tim Riley

Tim Riley

Gold City’s legendary bass vocalist Tim Riley continues to make great improvement following a stroke that sidelined him in late July. He was released from inpatient rehab in mid–August, nearly 2 weeks ahead of schedule and is now again speaking normally and walking independently with no assistive devices. While still not up to the demands of a full-time touring schedule, Tim was able to attend his 50th high school reunion recently, the first class reunion he has ever been able to attend due to Gold City’s schedule. Tim has felt every prayer and thanks you for all the cards and encouragement everyone has sent his way. The entire Riley family and all the men of Gold City ask you for your continued prayers for Tim and the group and thank you for your support!

This Week’s Harmony Road Features Sisters, Canton Junction, Legacy Five

Harmony Road

Signal Mountain, TN  This week’s Harmony Road television program will include videos from Canton Junction with “Sweeter as the Days Go By”, Sisters with “I’m Sure”, along with Legacy Five and “Newborn Feeling”. The program also features Brian Free and Assurance with “I Want to be That Man” and an exclusive video of Jerry Salley performing “The Broken Ones”

Harmony Road’s broadcast week begins on Saturday and continues through the following week. New programs begin airing each Saturday and Sunday. Several stations and affiliates air the program multiple times during the week also, giving viewers more opportunities to enjoy the music and the gospel message it delivers

This week’s program originates from Dugger Mountain Music Hall near Piedmont, Alabama. Dugger mountain Music Hall hosts regular concerts and produces a television program that airs on many of the same stations as Harmony Road as part of the Heartland Network. The venue is part of “our Father’s Arms” an outreach ministry based in the area. A special feature of this ministry is included in this week’s episode. More information can be found at www.duggermountainmusic.com.

Hosted by Les Butler, Harmony Road, a weekly southern gospel television program, is now available to over 80 million homes nationwide through networks, local TV stations, ROKU, DirecTV, and a mobile app. The program is also streamed from several locations. Information on Harmony Road and its affiliates can be found at www.harmonyroadtv.com. Viewers can also interact with the program on Facebook at Harmony Road TV and on twitter @harmonyroadtv.

Harmony Road is produced and distributed by Harmony Road Productions and features the best in Southern Gospel music and video. It can be found each week on The Heartland Network, The NRB Network (including DirecTV, streaming and mobile app), WATC57 in Atlanta, WGNM-TV in Macon, WYBU-TV in Columbus, GA/Phoenix City, AL. Also find the program on the WALKtv network (including ROKU), Harmony Gospel in Greeneville, SC, DCT3in Middle Tennessee, TV24 in Anniston/Gadsden, Charter Cable in Clarksville, Cookeville/Crossville, Sevier County, Lebanon and Jackson, TN and WMJN29 in Decatur/Athens/Cullman, AL

Red Roots Honored with Dove Nomination

Red Roots

Triplicity included in GMA’s Country Album of the Year Dove Award Nominations

(Hendersonville, TN) – Red Hen Records is pleased to announce that Triplicity, the latest recording by Red Roots, had received a nomination for Country Album of the Year in the 45^th Annual  GMA Dove Awards.

Produced by father/son production team Rick and Micah Schweinsberg, the album’s first single reached the top 10 on the Singing News radio chart, and the second single continues to climb.  Triplicity was featured as a New and Noteworthy release on the iTunes’ Country page during release week and Red Roots has since appeared on several television networks and CCM festivals in promotion of the album.

At work on the production of their new video for the single “Great Big Yes,” Red Roots commented, “we are excited and still getting over the shock of being nominated for a Dove Award.  Thanks to everyone who voted!”

The Dove Awards will be held on Tuesday, October 7, 2014, at Allen Arena on the campus of David Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN.  The show will air across the world on the Trinity Broadcasting Network.

Red Roots features identical red-headed triplets, Nika, Nicole, and Natalie Taylor.   With a stage persona as fiery as their blazing red locks, it’s no surprise Red Roots is enjoying tremendous success.  Six radio singles off their first two albums have charted in the top 40 of the Singing News Magazine, with the first single “Seven Days” off Triplicity being their highest radio debut to date.  Red Roots was named Favorite New Trio at the 2013 Singing News Fan Awards and was a featured contestant on the American Bible Challenge.

Red Hen Records is the country division of Daywind Music Group and home to great artists such as Michael Lee and Zach & Rodney.  Red Hen is distributed to retail and all major digital outlets through New Day Christian Distributors.

For more information regarding Red Roots, please visit www.theredroots.com, www.redhennashville.com, or contact Amanda Martin at publicity@daywind.com.
If you are interested in booking Red Roots, please contact Red Roots Booking at: (228) 623-6752, RedRoots3@gmail.com, or TheRedRoots.com/Booking.

New Jim Brady Trio Added To Harper Agency Artist Roster

Jim & Melissa Brady

Goodlettsville, TN – One of Christian music’s leading booking agencies, The Harper Agency, has named the newly organized Jim Brady Trio, as the latest addition to their artist roster. The announcement comes just a few days after popular vocal group, The Booth Brothers shared the news that long-time group member Jim Brady would be leaving the group at the end of the year. “Ronnie and I are saddened to see Jim depart our team,” Michael Booth stated, “yet we are tremendously excited about his future contributions to Gospel Music.”

Since joining The Booth Brothers in 2002, Jim has become a favorite among Southern Gospel Music lovers. Over the past decade Jim, with Ronnie and Michael Booth,  have become one of Gospel Music’s most awarded groups, collectively receiving more than 100 industry honors and accolades. “The last 12 and a half years have meant more to me than words could ever express,” Jim shared. “Ronnie and Michael have truly become brothers to me, and I’ll be forever thankful for the great times spent with them.”

To say that Jim’s time with The Booth Brothers solidified his place at the pinnacle of Gospel Music  would be an understatement; however, Jim possessed a rich musical heritage prior to his arrival with the Brothers. He first began singing with his gifted musical family at the age of five, and by the time he was 16 he began songwriting. Also prior to joining The Booth Brothers, Jim traveled with his wife, Melissa, and her family, The Shulers for nearly a decade. Jim and Melissa merged their songwriting gifts and are now recognized as two of Gospel Music’s most prolific songwriters, having penned more than 200 songs.

Over the years Melissa has faithfully supported her husband’s calling to Gospel Music, and as often as possible the two have had the privilege to sing and minister together. Melissa is a talented vocalist and musician and was featured on the Women of Homecoming Gaither Videos released in 2013. She is a regular columnist for The Singing News Magazine and Homecoming Magazine, and has also filled in for such popular groups as The Hoppers, The Martins and Lordsong over the past several years. “God has brought so many opportunities our way as a result of Jim’s time with The Booth Brothers,” Melissa said. “Had he chosen to sing with them for the rest of his life, I would have supported him 100 percent, but God had other plans, and we are honored that He is affording us the opportunity to share a full-time ministry. ”

The third member of the Jim Brady Trio has yet to be named; however, Jim and Melissa know God has the perfect person already selected. “We are so excited about this new adventure,” Jim stated. “The decision to leave The Booth Brothers was not made lightly, but I felt an urging from God that this is right, and I am so grateful for Michael and Ronnie’s blessings on this new ministry.”

“We have no doubt The Jim Brady Trio is equipped to make quality music that will encourage and evangelize,” Michael explained. “Great days are ahead for this union, and we know God is going to use them in a mighty way.”

The Harper Agency is pleased to have the opportunity to work with this newly formed group and are thrilled to add The Jim Brady Trio to their roster of fine artists, which also includes The Booth Brothers.    “We’ve known Jim and Melissa for 11 years, since we first began scheduling The Booth Brothers,” Ed Harper states. “While collectively, they are a new trio, Jim and Melissa have already established themselves to be credible artists with a heart for ministry. They have a uniqueness in that they have had the opportunity to test the waters, so to speak, and have been able to minister together, even when Jim was traveling full-time with The Booth Brothers.”

The Harper Agency has enjoyed a wonderful partnership with The Booth Brothers for over a decade and obviously, it was important to have the blessing of The Booth Brothers before embarking upon a scheduling agreement. Thankfully, the blessing was bestowed.  “We are equally excited that Jim and Melissa’s trio will be a part of the Harper Agency. Ed Harper and the Harper Agency have effectively managed the schedule of The Booth Brothers for 11 years, and I know they will be a tremendous asset to Jim and Melissa.”

“I believe Michael and Ronnie consider The Jim Brady Trio to be an extension of The Booth Brothers’ ministry,” Ed shared. “They have that kind of friendship, and that is definitely important. We are honored to have the opportunity to work with and represent such an outstanding couple. We are anxious to see who they name as the third member of the Trio, and we look forward to being a part of their future for many years.”

The Harper Agency may be reached by calling 615-851-4500 or visiting www.harperagency.com. The Agency is currently scheduling dates for 2015 for The Jim Brady Trio. Additional information regarding The Jim Brady Trio is available online at www.BradyHouseMusic.com.

Daywind Music Group Honored with 20 GMA Dove Award Nominations

Daywind Music Group

HENDERSONVILLE, TN  Daywind Music Group’s artists, songwriters, and producers received 20 nominations for the 45^th Annual GMA Dove Awards to be held on Tuesday, October 7, 2014, at Allen Arena on the campus of David Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN.  The Dove Awards will be aired globally on the Trinity Broadcasting Network.

Honored with four nominations was Daywind recording artist Karen Peck and New River for Song of the Year, Southern Gospel Performance, and Southern Gospel Song of the Year for their single “Revival” and for Southern Gospel Album of the Year for their album Revival.  The song was co-written by Karen Peck, Kenna West, and Don Poythress.

Brian Free and Assurance received four Dove nominations for Song of the Year, Southern Gospel Performance, and Southern Gospel Song of the Year for “Say Amen,” and Southern Gospel Album of the Year for Unashamed.  The song was co-written by Daywind staff writers Kenna West and Jason Cox along with Michael Farren.  The album was produced by Producer of the Year nominee Ricky Free.

Adam Crabb and Wilburn and Wilburn each garnered two nominations.  Adam Crabb received nominations for Country Album of the Year for Surrender produced by Adam and Jason Crabb and for Country Song of the Year for “That Whosoever was Me” written by Jason Cox, Kenna West, and Lee Black.  Wilburn and Wilburn received nominations for Country Album of the Year for Here Comes Sunday and for Bluegrass Song of the Year for “If These Old Walls Could Talk” written by Dianne Wilkinson and Jerry Salley.

Daywind’s Choral Division posted two nominations in the Musical of the Year category for “Good News from Jerusalem” created by Dianne Wilkinson and “Highest Glory” created by Marty Funderburk.

Greater Vision got a nod for Southern Gospel Album of the Year for its Daywind recording For All He’s Done, an album featuring three #1 songs.  Greater Vision received two other nominations for their work on the Cathedrals Family Reunion project.

Past Dove winner, Chigger Hill Boys and Terri was nominated for Bluegrass Song of the Year for their hit bluegrass gospel single “Revelation Song.”

First time nominees the Browders were honored for their song “Lift Up His Name” written by Matthew Browder from the album Time Machine, while Red Roots picked up a Country Album of the Year nomination for their album Triplicity produced by Rick and Micah Schweinsberg.

Daywind’s Vital Worship division was nominated in the Special Event category for their groundbreaking recording Songs for the Living King.

Daywind president Ed Leonard said, “We are blessed that so many of top artists, songwriters and producers call Daywind home.  We will continue serving Christ by producing top quality music.”

Daywind Music Group is home Daywind Records, Daywind Soundtracks, Daywind Music Publishing, Daywind Studios, Red Hen Records, and Thoroughbred Records.  Daywind Records represents great artists like Brian Free and Assurance, Legacy Five, Greater Vision, the Hoskins Family, the Blackwood Brothers, Wilburn and Wilburn, the Browders, Adam Crabb, the Bowling Family, Karen Peck and New River, Amber Thompson, Joseph Habedank, the Nelons, and Watts, Rowsey, & Bean.  Red Hen Records is home to Red Roots, Zach & Rodney, Michael Lee, and Ryan Watkins.  Thoroughbred Records is home to the Chigger Hill Boys & Terri.  Daywind recordings are distributed to Christian retail by New Day Christian Distributors (www.newdaychristian.com) and to the general market by Select O Hits.

Daywind Music Publishing is home to great songwriters Ronny Hinson, Dianne Wilkinson, Marty Funderburk, Sue Smith, Kenna West, Jason Cox, Kyla Rowland, Belinda Smith, Ricky Free, Scott Inman, John Darin Rowsey, Lee Black, Ben Storie, Gina Vera, David Browder, Matthew Browder, Sonya Browder, Tommy Browder, Aaron Crabb, Adam Crabb, Amanda Crabb, Karen Peck Gooch, Mike Richards, Natalie, Nika, and Nicole Taylor (Red Roots), Gina Boe, Caleb Collins, Janice Crow, Marcia Henry, Rick Schweinsberg, Micah Schweinsberg and CCM writers Sam Tinnesz, Aaron Rice, Michael Fordinal, Justin Kintzel, and Hearts of Saints.

Labor Day Night Sing With To The End

To The End

Find More About To The End Here

THE LESTER’S ANNOUNCE MATT FELTS AS NEW TENOR

Matt Felts

Through their group newsletter, Facebook and through a video shot at Silver Dollar City, the announcement was made today that the Lester’s have hired Matt Felts as their new tenor. ” We are grateful to The Lord for sending Matt our way and we’re looking forward to what God has in store for this ministry as we continue our journey for Him. Matt will be joining the week of September 8th so be watching our tour schedule and come out to a concert to welcome Matt to the Lesters.”
Matt Felts has been a mainstay in Gospel music for a number of years having been a member of the Dixie Melody Boys and other groups. He had this to say about joining the Lesters. ” Growing up in St. Louis, our home was filled with great Gospel music from groups like the Cathedrals and the Happy Goodmans. One group stood out to us above the rest, The Lesters. I’m thrilled to be apart of such a rich legacy of ministry and music. Joining the Lesters is truly like coming home.”
The Lesters will be in the studio soon and will make an appearance on the main stage at the National Quartet Convention next month. You can find out more and see their tour schedule by going to their website at www.thelesters.com

Tribute Quartet Unveils Daywind Debut

Tribute Quartet

HENDERSONVILLE, TN (Aug. 26, 2014) – The debut project by the Tribute Quartet as a Daywind recording artist is being released today, “Journey of Hope.”

Tribute is a male quartet comprised of group manager and lead singer Gary Casto, baritone singer and pianist Josh Singletary, tenor singer Riley Harrison Clark and bass singer Anthony Davis.

“Journey of Hope” was molded by the group’s long-time producer, Roger Talley.

“Journey of Hope” is a collection of songs that resound the constant truth of the hope we have when concluding our journey of life,” says Tribute manager and lead singer Gary Casto. “We are very thankful to Daywind Records and our producer, Roger Talley, for shaping this recording into the theme we so unashamedly sing about.”

“Journey of Hope” is an 11-song project that includes an award-winning cast of songwriters such as Kenna West, Lee Black, Michael Farren, Marcia Henry, Sue C. Smith, Kyla Rowland, Mary Funderburk, Caleb Collins, Dianne Wilkinson, Rebecca J. Peck, Terry Franklin, Barbara Franklin, Ricky Free and Tony Wood.

The group – which joined the Daywind family earlier this year – has produced top-charting hits such as “Homecoming Day,” “Homesick Angel” and “Good News From Jerusalem,” a No. 1 song.

“Tribute has been on a steady rise toward the top of the Southern Gospel

Music industry since its inception, and this recording will propel the group’s climb,’” explains Daywind president Ed Leonard. “With hit after hit already under its belt, we believe that the group has more chart-toppers to come on ‘Journey of Hope.’ Tribute Quartet delivers these songs with a sincerity and an energy that allows the wonderful messages in these great songs to come alive. We can’t wait to hear the reactions from the fans to what we believe is the group’s best effort yet.”

Daywind Records is home to an award-winning roster of artists, including The Browders, The Nelons, Greater Vision, Legacy Five, The Bowling Family, Joseph Habedank, The Hoskins Family and Wilburn & Wilburn. Daywind is distributed to retail through New Day Christian Distributors, Select-O-Hits, and all major digital outlets, including iTunes. For more information, visit www.daywindrecords.com  or contact Amanda Martin at publicity@daywind.com.

For more information on the group, visit Tribute Quartet’s web site at www.tributequartet.com.