Scotty Inman Added as Exclusive Songwriter to Daywind Music Publishing

Nashville, TN (October 4, 2023) – Scotty Inman and Daywind Music Publishing are pleased to announce the signing of an exclusive songwriting agreement.  This announcement comes on the heels of Scotty’s recent signing to Daywind Records as a recording artist.

The esteemed songwriter is honored to join the ranks of the respected songwriters who call Daywind home.  Inman has been awarded by BMI four times for songs recorded by Triumphant Quartet, as well as LeFevre Quartet, and has enjoyed cuts from numerous other artists such as Legacy Five, Joseph Habedank, The Kingsmen, The Taylors,  The Erwins, and many others.  Songs from his pen, such as “Going There” and “Sun’s Gonna Come Up” have topped the Singing News radio charts eight times, and Scotty’s current single “Anywhere Jesus Is” was just announced as the #1 song on the first Singing News Faith Country Top 40 chart.  Most recently, Scotty Inman’s focus has been writing new material for his upcoming release on Daywind Records.

Rick Shelton shares, “Scotty Inman expresses his ideas in lyrics that are truly original and in music that is identifiable and fresh. As impressed as I am with his songwriting, singing and public presentation, I am inspired by his character. Daywind was Scotty’s first publisher for nearly a decade, and this feels like a homecoming! I can’t wait to start promoting the hits that he will create.”

“I’m thrilled to be back where my writing journey began!” continues Scotty Inman.  “Almost two decades ago, Rick Shelton and Daywind Publishing took a chance on a young aspiring songwriter, and I’ll never forget that. About ten years ago, I decided to take a step away, and at that time Rick said that I always had a home at Daywind when I was ready to come back.  That time has come, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds. So, for all the artists who are looking to cut a project soon, please remember to reach out to Rick and ask for my entire catalog!”

Daywind Music Publishing is home to an award-winning roster of songwriters including Lee Black, Jody Braselton, Jim Brady, Melissa Brady, Clint Brown, Riley Harrison Clark, Jason Cox, Natalie Cromwell, Janice Crow, Seth Elbe, Marty Funderburk, Joseph Habedank, Mike Harland, Wayne Haun, Matthew Lawson, Tim Lovelace, Devin McGlamery, Rob Mills, Levi Mills, Jacob Mills, Karen Peck Gooch, John Darin Rowsey, Belinda Smith, Jonathan C. Smith, Sue C. Smith, Barry Weeks, and Nathan Woodard.

To stay up to date on current happenings, follow Scotty Inman on social media, or visit scottyinman.com.

Congratulations to Mike Leichner and the SGN SCOOPS TOP 40 Christian Country (October 2023)

1 I Know The Man Mike Leichner/Independent 2 Anywhere Jesus Is Scotty Inman/ Berry Hill Records 3 He Woke Me Up Today Bruce Hedrick/Independent 4 Everyday American Carolina/Independent 5 I Wanna Be Like You Chosen Road/Thoroughbred Records 6 I Believe Ernie Peters/Independent 7 Broken To Beautiful Joy Holden/ARS 8 One Name Jeff & Sheri Easter/Gaither…

The post Congratulations to Mike Leichner and the SGN SCOOPS TOP 40 Christian Country (October 2023) appeared first on Southern Gospel News SGNScoops Digital.

Congratulations to Greater Vision and The Top 100 SGN SCOOPS Southern Gospel October 2023

1 Think About There Greater Vision/Daywind 2 Been Blessed Whisnants/UIA 3 That’s Why We Pray Brian Free & Assurance/Daywind 4 Braggin’ On Jesus Steeles/StowTown 5 Love Worth Dying For Down East Boys/Crossroads 6 He Grew The Tree The Guardians/Daywind 7 Jesus Loves You Mylon Hayes Family/UIA 8 Nobody Like Jesus LeFevre Qt/Daywind 9 For The…

The post Congratulations to Greater Vision and The Top 100 SGN SCOOPS Southern Gospel October 2023 appeared first on Southern Gospel News SGNScoops Digital.

Steve Ladd Announces New Solo Ministry

Gospel Music Fan Favorite, Steve Ladd, Announces New Solo Ministry

Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame inductee, Steve Ladd, today announces the relaunch of his solo career after a four-year hiatus. Over the past two decades, Steve has carved an indomitable legacy as one of Gospel Music’s most exceptional vocalists by lending his voice to Gospel Music classics, Come Sunday Morning, One More River, and one of the greatest anthems ever recorded in Christian Music, worldwide hit, Preach the Word.

Steve shares, “I want to say how thankful I am, that, throughout my life, God has not only allowed me to use my voice to serve Him, but has also allowed me to follow a dream that I have had since I was a child: to travel and share in song, the love and hope He has for us all. I have always tried to be sensitive to the leading of God to be exactly where he wants me to be. But, also, to hearken to that same leading when told, to step out in faith in a different direction. Over the past several months, I have felt it was time to do just that.”

“This August,” Steve continues, “I let the guys know that I would be resigning from the tenor position with Anthem Edition, not only because I believe sincerely that it is the direction that God is leading me, but also due to the amount of travel involved with a full-time quartet. My goal will still be to go and share my heart and the love of Jesus with as many people as possible, but now it will unfold within the confines of a solo ministry where my beautiful wife, Maegan, can travel with me.

Steve’s journey is a testament to the seasons of life, each with its unique purpose, and he expresses heartfelt gratitude for the chapter shared with Anthem Edition. “I want to thank Chris White of Sonlite Records, for involving me in the relaunching of the quartet. I appreciate Doug and Tim for asking me to partner with them in this endeavor back in 2019, and I truly wish them the best in everything they pursue. Great things are in store for Anthem Edition!”

Steve shared that all solo engagements for the month of December are currently filled with January, February, and March quickly following suit. Be watching for tour dates and new music announcements soon. To secure Steve for your upcoming event, reach out to him at: contactsteveladdmusic@gmail.com or contact by phone at 256.504.4958.

Congratulations to The Chuck Wagon Gang and The Bluegrass Top 20 October SGN Scoops

1 I Will Not Cry Today Chuckwagon Gang/Mountain Home 2 Jordan Darin & Brooke Aldridge/Billy Blue Records 3 The Mighty Name Of Jesus High Fidelity/Rebel Records 4 Man In The Middle Phillips And Banks/Independent 5 Thank You Lord For Grace Authentic Unlimited/Billy Blue Records 6 Lonely Road Nick Chandler & Delivered/Independent 7 Old Country Baptizing…

The post Congratulations to The Chuck Wagon Gang and The Bluegrass Top 20 October SGN Scoops appeared first on Southern Gospel News SGNScoops Digital.

Browns Release New Christmas Recording

Nashville, TN (September 22, 2023) When the musical talents of the legendary City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra are combined with the vocal talents of a gifted family, the end result is a musical masterpiece. Then when all 10 songs are Christmas classics, the project becomes filled with holiday cheer that takes listeners on a joyful and festive journey. 
Just in time for the Christmas season, Club44 Records has announced the October 20, 2023, release of a brand new recording from one of Christian music’s most talented families, The Browns. Shelly, Michaela, Adam and Andrew, collectively known as The Browns, left their quaint hometown of Le Mars, IA, for the Czech Republic to enlist the assistance of the famed City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra to create a Christmas collection that is sure to become a holiday favorite for many years to come.
Christmas In Prague is a yuletide recording like no other, as it offers both traditional, yet modern arrangements to some of the most popular Christmas classics that have been recorded over the past century. Recorded in the center of Bohemia in the Czech Republic, each song features intricate harmonies and powerful instrumentation that capture the true essence of what Christmas is all about. 
The new release features Christmas classics like “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “Silver Bells,” “O Holy Night” and “Little Drummer Boy.” A special highlight of the recording is “Snow.” “This song has become a holiday staple, not only for its clever lyric and melody by Irving Berlin, but also for its harmonic passages. It’s fun. It’s whimsical and a classic,” Shelly Brown states. 
Another special highlight of the recording is “Good King Wenceslas.” “To record an album with the City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra,” Shelly explains, “and not pay tribute to the patron saint of Bohemia would be a glaring omission.” The stirring arrangement is complete with dramatic crescendos and pauses to magnify the powerful lyrics to this traditional and heartwarming hymn, written in 1853.
Michaela Brown expressed her excitement about the new recording, “Every album we record has a special aspect and story with it. This Christmas in Prague album has been extra special from the beginning. We have two of the best arrangers and orchestrators, Wayne Haun and David Clydesdale. We were able to travel with them to the historic city of Prague, Czech Republic and experience the recording of the orchestra live! We chose classic Christmas pieces that everyone knows and loves, and we are so excited to be sharing this music with you during this special season of the year!”
Club44 Records label co-founder, Ernie Haase, shared his enthusiasm about this new offering from The Browns, “I have known The Browns since they were kids, and I knew when I met them just how special they are. It has been fun to watch as their music career has flourished over the years, so fast forward to this epic recording, Christmas in Prague, and it just confirms what I suspected 20 years ago…they always deliver with great professionalism, great entertainment value and, most of all, unparalleled GREAT family harmony. You’ve got to hear this record!”
Since 2015, this musical family has enjoyed hosting performances at their very own Browns Century Theater in their hometown of Le Mars. Each season, the family performs to sold-out crowds five days a week during November and December. This year those sold-out audiences will enjoy a little taste of Prague as they visit the quiet town of Le Mars.
For 20 years, The Browns have brought joy to listeners worldwide with their musical talents, rich family harmonies and exuberant energy. This most recent Christmas recording is sure to bring listeners even more joy for decades to come.
Pre-add/pre-save Christmas In Prague today to listen to the beautiful rendition of “Snow.” Distributed exclusively by The Orchard/Sony Music, Christmas in Prague will be available on all digital platforms worldwide on October 20, 2023

Kingdom Heirs Announce The Resignation of Loren Harris

The Kingdom Heirs are saddened to announce the resignation of Loren Harris from the lead vocal position, effective immediately. This has obviously not been an easy decision for anyone, but after much prayer and discussion over the last few days, we felt it was best considering Loren’s recent health concerns and the demanding schedule of the group. Kreis French, owner, states “I am going to miss Loren and his big voice, but his health comes first. I wish him good health and success in the future and predict that he will be singing again before long”.
We want to thank Loren for the seven years he devoted to our group. He joined us at the baritone position and then moved to the lead role when it became vacant in the summer of 2022. He has not only been a dedicated professional, but also a great friend and brother in Christ.
We ask that everyone continue to pray for Loren and his family as they await answers moving forward.
The Kingdom Heirs will not be accepting any auditions at the moment. We will patiently wait and focus on the direction God has for us.
We love you all and appreciate all the prayers and concerns for both Loren and the group. Please take a moment and read Loren’s official statement that follows.
Thank you and God Bless!
The Kingdom Heirs
“As fall is quickly approaching, I’m reminded that change is inevitable and seasons come and go. I’ve so enjoyed this latest season of my life and ministry so much getting to sing with “the boys from Dollywood” and living out my dream for the last seven years. Due to health issues that have affected me the last few years, I have decided to resign from the Kingdom Heirs. God knows this has been a very hard decision with much prayer and seeking God’s guidance. I never would have thought that when I stepped thru that curtain on Friday, August 4th, 2023 that it would be my last time to sing with these fine men. God always has a plan, and even though I don’t know what’s around the next bend in the road, I trust the one who does. Kreis and Sonya French have been so good to me and my family and we will always be a part of the Kingdom Heirs family. I love these men with all my heart and I wish them the best as they have the distinct honor of sharing the gospel in a secular theme park every day. What an amazing opportunity they’ve been given. When I shared my decision with my son and daughter they said, “we can’t ever remember you not singing and we don’t know that you can even do anything else.” I’ve wanted to sing Gospel Music since I was a child and I still have a love for this music and a song in my heart. If it’s the Lord’s will, maybe some day I can sing my song again. Continue to pray for Cindy and I, my family, my health, and my Kingdom Heir family. To all my friends I’ve met along the way, I love and appreciate you. Thanks for always supporting me and I hope to see you soon.”
– Loren Harris

The Oak Ridge Boys Announce Historic American Made: Farewell Tour

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – GRAMMY® Award-winning and Country Music Hall of Fame members, The Oak Ridge Boys are officially celebrating their 50th Anniversary this October. With this celebration, The Oak Ridge Boys are announcing their American Made: Farewell Tour! The group, Duane Allen (1966), Joe Bonsall (1973), William Lee Golden (1965), and Richard Sterban (1972) are excited to celebrate both milestones with fans with the announcement of this tour.

“We are doing a farewell tour because we owe it to our fans to say goodbye,” shares William Lee Golden. “They have always been there for us through the good times and the bad. I will always be thankful to every person who came out to a show, bought a t-shirt, played our music, and overall, loved us enough to spend their hard-earned money whenever they could. This tour is for you!”

“I want to thank God for 50 years of singing with three of my best friends and for the fans who have been there for us,” shares Richard Sterban. “This is a celebration and we hope to see you there.”

Designated as America’s national anthem singers by the MENC (National Association for Music Educators), The Oak Ridge Boys released their #1 hit single, “American Made” in February 1983. Their love for God and country remains true to this day, and with this being the 40th Anniversary of the single, it seemed fitting to incorporate “American Made” into their farewell.

The Oak Ridge Boys have received four Academy of Country Music, two American Music, five Billboard, four Country Music Association, five Grammy, and twelve Gospel Music Association Dove awards, just to name a few. They are members of the Grand Ole Opry, the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. They have achieved seventeen #1 hits including “Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight,” “Bobbie Sue,” “Trying To Love Two Women,” “(I’m Settin’) Fancy Free,” “American Made,” and the unforgettable “Elvira.” With an astounding thirty-seven Top 20 country hits, with twelve gold, three platinum, and one double-platinum album, The Oak Ridge Boys have made their mark in every facet of the gospel, pop, and country music industry.

“For all of my career I have always been a planner, sometimes planning 2 or 3 years in advance, what we will do, where we will go, and when we record,” expresses Duane Allen. “As we celebrate 50 years of being together, just as you see us, we will, also, begin our American Made: Farewell Tour. I don’t know how long the tour will last, but we hope to return to as many parts of the country as we can. Thank you so much for these 50 years. For me, it’s 57 1/2 years. I have given you the best part of my life and you have rewarded me with a wonderful career. Thank you, our dear fans. Thanks to God for His divine guidance. Thank you to our wonderful organization. Thank you to all the supporting companies who represent us. And thank you to our families.”

In the early seventies, The Oak Ridge Boys continued to expand their cutting-edge style. After the addition of Richard Sterban in 1972 and Joe Bonsall in 1973, the Oaks were forever changed with a new direction, a new sound, and a new path. Their career stands alone with its legacy, its style, and its continued contributions to gospel and country music.

“I was 25 years old in 1973 when I joined The Oak Ridge Boys,” shares Joe Bonsall. “I am 75 years old in 2023 and I am STILL an Oak Ridge Boy. It has been and still IS an amazing ride.”

The Oak Ridge Boys Upcoming Tour Dates:

SEP 20 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

SEP 21 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

SEP 22 – Capital Region MU Health Care Amphitheater / Jefferson City, Mo.

SEP 23 – Dixie Carter Performing Arts Center / Huntington, Tenn.

SEP 28 – Norsk Hostfest Great Hall of the Vikings / Minot, N.D.

SEP 29 – Chester Fritz Auditorium / Grand Forks, N.D.

SEP 30 – Swiftel Center / Brookings, S.D.

OCT 01 – Deadwood Mountain Grand / Deadwood, S.D.

OCT 04 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

OCT 05 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

OCT 06 – Ameristar Casino Hotel Kansas City / Kansas City, Mo.

OCT 07 – Richard Drake’s Party Barn / Powderly, Texas

OCT 11 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

OCT 12 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

OCT 13 – Arlington Music Hall / Arlington, Texas

OCT 14 – Arlington Music Hall / Arlington, Texas

OCT 18 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

OCT 19 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

OCT 21 – Rome City Auditorium / Rome, Ga.

OCT 26 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

OCT 27 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

OCT 28 – Neewollah Celebration – Jim Halsey Auditorium / Independence, Kan.

NOV 01 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

NOV 02 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

NOV 03 – Brown County Music Center / Nashville, Ind.

NOV 04 – Crossroads Arena / Corinth, Miss.

NOV 08 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

NOV 09 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

NOV 11 – Grand Ole Opry / Nashville, Tenn.

NOV 15 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

NOV 16 – The Mansion Theatre for the Performing Arts / Branson, Mo.

NOV 21 – Vern Riffe Center for the Arts / Portsmouth, Ohio

NOV 24 – Honeywell Center / Wabash, Ind.

NOV 25 – Paramount Theatre / Anderson, Ind.

NOV 30 – Weldon Mills Theatre / Roanoke Rapids, N.C.

DEC 01 – Renfro Valley Barn Dance / Mount Vernon, Ky.

DEC 02 – Anderson Music Hall / Hiawassee, Ga.

DEC 07 – Firekeepers Casino / Battle Creek, Mich.

DEC 08 – Island Resort & Casino / Harris, Mich.

DEC 09 – Island Resort & Casino / Harris, Mich.

DEC 12 – Ryman Auditorium / Nashville, Tenn.

DEC 14 – Luther F. Carson Four Rivers Center / Paducah, Ky.

DEC 15 – Effingham Performance Center / Effingham, Ill.

DEC 16 – Crystal Grand Music Theatre / Wisconsin Dells, Wisc.

DEC 17 – Egyptian Theatre / Dekalb, Ill.

For The Oak Ridge Boys’ full tour schedule, visit HERE.

HEART 2 HEART WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS

(Cherryville, NC) Southern gospel group Heart 2 Heart is excited to announce the addition of two new vocalists.  Riley and Ashleigh Dotson have been performing on stage with Heart 2 Heart the past few months, and will make their permanent place in the group official at this year’s National Quartet Convention in Pigeon Forge, TN. 

The Dotsons have been welcomed by longtime group members, David and Deana Kiser and Rhonda House and are no strangers to gospel music.  Ashleigh is the daughter of David and Deana, and she has grown up surrounded by the music of Heart 2 Heart.  Her love for music and her beautiful voice are a welcome addition to this ministry.  Many will remember Riley Dotson as a member of Carolina The Band.  He brings his powerful vocal ability and guitar talents to the group.  

David says, “This new season brings a different look and sound to our group, but it’s very much a blessing to be bringing part of our family on stage with us to minister together.”  

Ashleigh shares her excitement for this transition. “Riley and I prayed that God would guide our paths to eventually minister together, and we had shared in secret that Heart 2 Heart felt like home. God just has a way of making things happen, and we love that we are now a part of this group.” 

Riley adds, “I’m excited to share my passion to sing with my wife and be a part of the ministry, Heart 2 Heart. I haven’t been singing for a few years, and it’s a breath of fresh air to be back doing what I love.” 

Heart 2 Heart will celebrate the Dotsons’ debut at National Quartet Convention in Pigeon Forge, TN on Sunday, September 24, 2023. For more information on the ministry of Heart 2 Heart, visit their website at www.heart2heartmin.com or follow them on social media.