Norman Holland is the 2nd inductee announced into the 2023 Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame!Congratulations to Norman in heaven and his family.

Here’s a statement from Norman’s sister, Edith Holland Brown: “I would like to thank everyone who took a chance and believed in my brother, Norman Holland. He so loved working with his Christian artists. Love you forever!!!”

Also, here’s a statement from SGMA President Arthur Rice: “Norman was loved by anyone that worked with him. All of Southern Gospel Music misses him dearly.”

The Official Induction Ceremony is Tuesday, September 26, 1:00pm during NQC at the LeConte Convention Center in Pigeon Forge, TN. (Natqc.com)

Nashville, TN (August 3, 2023) – Longtime, multi-award winning StowTown Records recording artist, Triumphant Quartet, is pleased to announce the addition of vocalist Sean Barber to the group. Sean plans to relocate with his wife to the beautiful mountains of East Tennessee. They are looking forward to being a part of the Triumphant Quartet family.

Sean shares, “I cannot put into words how excited I am about this opportunity. I have great respect for Triumphant and the rich legacy they have built over the last 22 years. My wife, Tanessa, and I are truly honored to be a part of the Triumphant family and look forward to what God has in store.” Triumphant Quartet co-founder, Eric Bennett, echoed Sean’s enthusiasm, “To everything there is a season (Ecclesiastes 3:1), and this is a new season for Triumphant as we welcome Sean to the group. He is an incredible talent, and we look forward to how the Lord is going to use him and the exciting things He has in store for our ministry as we move forward.”

For more information about Triumphant Quartet, go to www.triumphantquartet.com. Their current project, Hymns & Worship, is available at retail and digital outlets worldwide via Provident/Sony.

Goodlettesville, TN – One of Christian’s music’s leading booking agencies, The Harper Agency has announced the signing of popular quartet, The Guardians to the company’s artist roster. The talented vocal group has enjoyed an exciting career in the Gospel music genre, and Ed Harper, President of The Harper Agency, says he is extremely happy to have the opportunity to represent The Guardians.

The rich, musical heritage of The Guardians dates back to the late 1980s; however, over the past decade, under the direction of founding member, Dean Hickman, The Guardians have enjoyed much success, including multiple Dove Award nominations from the Gospel Music Association, as well as Fan Award nominations from subscribers of The Singing News Magazine and several #1 hit singles. Present group members, John Darin Rowsey, Pat Barker, Scott Mullins and Paul Lancaster, collectively share the message of the Gospel through song night after night and are dedicated in their commitment to glorify Christ wherever the opportunity is presented.

“Our agency has known group owner and manager Dean Hickman for several years,” Ed Harper, President of The Harper Agency shares. “He continues to be actively involved in many aspects of our industry. Jeff and I have known John, Pat and Paul personally for many years. Each were previously vocalists with other artists our agency represents. They, along with their baritone singer Scott Mullins, present great four-part harmony that gospel fans love and appreciate.”

Just as the Harper Agency is delighted to have the opportunity to represent The Guardians, The Guardians are honored and thrilled to be represented by the Harper Agency. “I’ve had the privilege of having a relationship with the Harper Agency for over 30 years,” John Darin Rowsey states. “ I’ve seen their work both from the side of the concert promoter, as my wife and I promoted concerts for a number of years, and from the artist side when I traveled with Karen Peck and New River.  It was clear to me they truly cared about both and that kind of integrity always impressed me. I look forward to working with them, and The Guardians are very excited to be represented by Ed and Jeff Harper and their wonderful staff.”

NASHVILLE, Tenn.—Commemorating two decades of music and ministry, multi-GRAMMY® nominated Gospel leaders Ernie Haase & Signature Sound are set to bow Live in Amsterdam: A 20th Anniversary Celebration August 11, 2023. Produced by 39-time Dove Award-winner Wayne Haun and released by StowTown Records—the genre-leading label co-founded by Haase and Haun—the project was recorded before a capacity crowd at Rafaël Evangelism Center in Amsterdam earlier this year.

“Overture,” a stirring instrumental medley of Ernie Haase & Signature Sound classics, sets the stage for a milestone recording featuring 10 fan favorites spanning the group’s iconic career. “They’ve had more hits over the last 20 years than we could possibly include on one project, so the overture enabled us to add portions of a few more #1 singles like ‘I Thirst,’ ‘That’s Why,’ and ‘The Old Landmark,’” shares Haun, who arranged and orchestrated the piece. “When the overture started in Amsterdam, I was amazed at how the audience began singing along. It’s completely humbling to realize the global impact these songs have had.”

From “Oh, What A Savior,” which Haase has performed for more than 30 years with both Signature Sound and the Cathedral Quartet; to “Get Away Jordan,” Ernie Haase & Signature Sound’s breakthrough hit, Live in Amsterdam: A 20th Anniversary Celebration also features new arrangements of such group standards as “Reason Enough,” “I Know My Savior Cares,” and the July 21st digital single “Until We Fly Away,” among others.

“Our most memorable moments are always meeting with people after shows and hearing how the songs have helped them in their faith journey,” Haase shares. “‘Jesus Changed Everything’ and ‘Sometimes I Wonder’ were songs that God greatly used the night we recorded in Amsterdam. While showing us her ‘Jesus Changed Everything’ tattoo, a lady said to us in broken English, ‘This song saved me from a life of deep depression.’ Another family shared that their young daughter was recently struck and killed by a car in her neighborhood. They told us how the song ‘Sometimes I Wonder’ is giving them faith and hope, and they’re even asking God for the opportunity to witness to the driver.”

“All of these songs have been very, very impactful to the ministry of Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, so we hope our listeners will love the new arrangements of songs they’ve welcomed into their lives through the years,” he adds. “We also hope young listeners will hear a work of ‘heart’ and art that encourages them to pursue their dreams as we did when we embarked on this journey 20 years ago. Most of all, we want people to listen to these songs and the stories behind them and be inspired to share their redemption story with others. In the end, we overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony (Revelation 12:11). This recording is our testimony of God’s amazing grace in and through Ernie Haase & Signature Sound.”

Nashville, TN (July 8, 2023) – To everything there is a season. For the past two decades, Scotty Inman has been blessed with the privilege of traveling as part of the award-winning group, Triumphant Quartet. This season has brought much joy and fulfillment, both from a professional standpoint, as well as personally. “Over half my life has been spent with the greatest men I know. They say you are who you hang around, and I hit the jackpot with Triumphant,” shares Scotty Inman. “Men of integrity, consistency and class… not just in music, but in life itself.”
From the group’s beginnings in 2003, when four outstanding vocalists graced the stage in Pigeon Forge, TN for the first time together, to making the decision to tour the country in 2008, Triumphant has continued time and again to raise the bar of producing music with the highest excellence, all while remaining steadfast in their core values. That dedication, along with the grace of God, has yielded GRAMMY nominations, a Dove Award, numerous fan awards and number one songs at radio.
However, over the last few years, Scotty Inman has felt God leading him into a new season of life. A decision such as this is never simple or easy to make, especially when it entails leaving a group that is family; but at this time, it is necessary. Moving into 2024 and beyond, Scotty will shift his focus to recording and traveling as a solo artist, which will, in turn, allow much needed flexibility in his schedule.
“This is not a ‘going home to spend more time with my family’ type of announcement,” explains Scotty. “Mainly because that implies that those of us who travel for a living do not spend time with our families, which is not true. However, what I do know is that I have a deep desire to be even more involved in my kids’ lives at these crucial ages. They are growing up quickly, and I want to be at as many ballgames and recitals as I can.”
Scotty continues, “As some of you know, my wife and I recently helped plant a church along with a pastor friend and small group of couples. At that church, I serve as the co-worship leader, as well as a deacon. Serving more frequently at my home church and being in attendance to fulfill my duties are a few things that have been laid on my heart in a huge way.”
While Scotty looks forward to making the most of his time with his family, this does not mean that music will take a backseat. “I’m not done singing, and in many ways, I feel as though I’ve only just begun! By traveling as a soloist, I’ll be able to pursue the calling that the Lord has placed on my life, but with a less demanding schedule. I plan on seeing everyone down the road sooner rather than later!”
Eric Bennett conveys the group’s sincere gratitude, “We will forever be grateful for Scotty’s time and devotion to Triumphant. His creativity, passion and love for the Gospel has helped create what Triumphant is today.” Although things may change, remnants of Scotty’s influence will always be seen and felt as Triumphant continues its ministry in the coming years.”
“Scotty has been a much-loved and respected member of this family,” says David Sutton, the tenor singer for Triumphant. “We all understand and share in the calling of ministry in varying capacities. As such, we are fully supportive of Scotty and this new endeavor.”
“We’ve always encouraged our kids to never be afraid of expanding their borders,” Clayton Inman recalls. “Scotty has been with Triumphant for twenty years. As both his dad and a group member, I’m extremely grateful for that. At the same time, his mom and I are excited for the world to see everything Scotty has to offer for years to come.”
Inevitably, Scotty will leave behind big shoes to fill. While the group vows to exercise prayerful consideration and discernment during the interview process, the members appreciate Scotty’s willing participation during this time of transition. His involvement in the selection process highlights the impact of the quartet’s ministry and the quality of relationships formed during those years. All serious inquiries for the lead/baritone position should be emailed to landon@imcconcerts.com.
Scotty will continue to appear as part of Triumphant through the end of the year. A transition such as this one is not to be taken lightly, and Scotty wants to make the change as smooth as possible for each and every person involved. He shares, “Please pray for me and my family during this transition, as well as my favorite group of guys, Triumphant, as they move forward. I know God has great things in store for them!”
To stay up-to-date on current happenings, follow Scotty Inman on social media or visit scottyinman.com.

Don Baucom, father of The Gospel Greats host, Rodney Baucom, passed away during the evening hours of Thursday, June 29, 2023. Mr. Baucom had been in declining health in recent weeks.
Funeral arrangements are pending; additional information will be released as plans are finalized.
The Baucom family appreciates your prayers during this difficult time.

NASHVILLE, TENN. (May 23rd, 2023) – Joseph Habedank, one of today’s leading voices in Christian music is set to release “The Basement,” on Daywind Records, Friday, May 25th. The date signifies his ten years of sobriety from drugs. The track is co-written by Habedank and is a homage to the thousands of church basements that hold meetings for people seeking recovery from addiction across the world. For further information and to pre-save the single, click HERE.

In a personal and redemptive voice, Habedank shares the following to his fans as he prepares to release “The Basement”:

“It was like a tornado hit in May of 2013. Every single part of my life was impacted and damaged by my drug addiction. If you can imagine the scene. It’s dark, it looks like more storms are on the way, and any eventual restoration looks almost impossible.

But on May 25 of that year, the clouds began to break. I made it through the day, and days after, 24 hours at a time. Through much prayer, and the support of Porter’s Call and MusiCares, I began my path to recovery at Cumberland Heights in Nashville, TN. After 30 days of inpatient treatment, through the advice of my counselors, I then attended 90 recovery meetings in 90 consecutive days.

Just as one would seek shelter during a tornado, many of these recovery meetings took place in the basement of different churches around Nashville. In March of 2022, I sat down with my friends and fellow songwriters Michael Farren and Tony Wood to write what is now ‘The Basement.’

Ed Leonard, president of Daywind Records, shares his thoughts, “This song captures the miraculous way that God works in recovery programs around the world. An addict’s journey to recovery is painful, emotional, lonely, and hard. It is usually riddled with setbacks and shortfalls. Many don’t survive. The best chance for survival is to seek the help of professionals in a place filled with people who are struggling just like you. Take things one day at a time, sheltered in these safe spaces, and allow God to take control and work in your life. Joseph followed this path and works each day to stay sober. Daywind made the decision without hesitation to support Joseph and his solo ministry from the beginning. We knew his character. He had a support system with his program. He had accountability and support through his incredible wife, Lindsay. But most of all, Joseph has the Master Physician in his life. The people encouraged through his testimony, both addicts themselves and the large and growing population of people whose lives have been affected by addicts, number in the hundreds of thousands. We are so proud of Joseph and will continue to support him and those who struggle with or are affected by addiction, one day at a time.”

“The Basement” is available at all streaming outlets.

For more information visit: www.josephhabedank.com

Nashville, TN – New Haven Records has announced the release of a brand new recording from three-time Academy of Country Music Keyboard/Piano Player of the Year, Gordon Mote. Where You Lead Me is set to hit streets on May 26, and features 12 cuts, complimented by the rich, soulful vocals that have made this talented musician so loved by audiences worldwide for three decades.

Blind from birth, the Alabama native began playing piano by the age of three, and throughout his youth continued to perfect his God-given talent. He received a full scholarship to Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, AL, and after three years at the University, transferred to Nashville’s famed Belmont University. Two days after graduation, he accepted a position with the legendary Lee Greenwood, and before long began to capture the attention of many of the nation’s most popular entertainers.

Where You Lead Me, his latest effort, marks the fourth release on the New Haven Records label and blends the creative efforts of Mote with multi-award winning producer, Wayne Haun. Together these two producers create a musical masterpiece that conveys the faithfulness of a loving Father. The songs featured on Where You Lead Me reflect the gifted singer’s convictions and dedication to serve his Savior with the talents he has been blessed to possess. “We listened and looked at hundreds of songs and spent much time in prayer and reflection to determine what to record and what this project should say,” Mote explains. “I truly believe that God has led and we have followed! Our prayer is that each listener will be blessed and will love every song!”
 
The recording includes vocal collaborations between Mote and long-time friends Bill Gaither and The Gaither Vocal Band, as well as legendary country group, Alabama, and noted songwriter and worship pastor, Travis Cottrell. Additionally, Mote’s wife, Kimberly joins in singing background vocals with several other gifted vocalists like Charlotte Ritchie, Jamie Hall and Chip Davis. The project also features the songwriting talents of a number of the industry’s most prolific writers, including Tony Wood, Sue Smith, Lee Black, Gerald Crabb, Stephen Curtis Chapman, Bryan White and Lyn Rowell, who co-wrote the title cut with Mote. The debut radio single, The First Song, was co-written by Haun, Joseph Habedank and Michael Farren. This upbeat, driving number is sure to become one of Mote’s most popular to date. 
 
Mote’s excitement is hard to contain as he discusses this brand new recording. “It was an honor to have such wonderful friends and talented individuals like Travis Cottrell, Bill Gaither and The Gaither Vocal Band, as well as Teddy and Randy and all the guys with Alabama to be a part of this project. The orchestration Wayne Haun created is simply a work of art and the players are incredible. The writers penned songs that truly speak my heart, and I know they will speak to the heart of each listener because they convey the message of God’s goodness and faithfulness,” Mote shares. “God has blessed me beyond measure. I have always tried to follow His lead and walk through doors He chooses to open. It’s been a good plan and one I want to continue to follow.”
 
With 15 solo recordings, 21 Academy of Country Music Award nominations, 2 Grammy nominations, a Gospel Music Association Dove Award, and 30 years of touring, including 20 years as a solo artist, Gordon Mote is living proof of God’s goodness and faithfulness. He also is a testimony that following Christ where He leads is a philosophy that has worked quite well.
 
Where You Lead Me is available on all digital platforms worldwide, and wherever fine Christian music is sold.