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Gospel music, whose traditional roots have influenced many styles of music over the years, was first popularized largely thanks to James D. Vaughan, who started in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee.

Vaughan is widely hailed as the founder of Southern Gospel Music because of his work as a musician, music teacher, publisher, and radio station owner. The James D. Vaughan Quartet Festival will be held July 24-27 to celebrate his influence on gospel music’s past, present, and future.

In the 1900s, Vaughan started publishing his own music to promote his quartet. James D. Vaughan Music Publishing Company eventually grew to be one of the biggest publishers in the country and sponsored touring quartets to sell songbooks that we still sing in churches and revivals today. Vaughan’s radio station, WOAN, brought gospel to the masses.

This year’s lineup includes some of the biggest names in Southern Gospel Music.

At 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 24, you will hear the music of the Greater Vision, Mark Trammell Quartet, Guardians, and a special rare appearance by the Second Half Quartet.

Thursday, July 25, at 7:00 p.m., will feature The Inspirations, Gold City, Mylon Hayes Family, and The Whisnants.

Friday, July 26, at 7:00 p.m., there will be a Dove Brothers Quartet and a Spencer Family (JB, Barbara, Kevin, Geniece) Reunion along with the Kingsmen and the world-famous Chuck Wagon Gang.

Gaither Homecoming Artist Ernie Haase & Signature Sound are scheduled for a performance on Saturday, July 27, beginning at 2:00 p.m. The Saturday all-star line-up includes the Triumphant Quartet, The Perrys, Down East Boys, and Josh & Ashley Franks.

Two additional FREE matinee shows will be at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. Gerald Wolfe’s Gospel Music Hymn Sing will return on Thursday and feature Greater Vision, Mark Trammell Quartet, Mylon Hayes Family, Whisnants, Jim & Melissa Brady, and the Hymn Sing Band. The Dixie Echoes & the Blackwood Brothers will sing traditional quartet music on Friday.

Host Quartet and Lawrenceburg’s own, The Kellys, will appear during the week.

Josh Franks will be the MC for the entire festival.

Lawrenceburg, known as the birthplace of Southern Gospel, celebrates the life and the music Mr. Vaughan loved each year downtown at the historic Crockett Theater. For more information or tickets, call 1-931-762-4231. You may also order your tickets online at www.lawrenceburgtn.gov.

NASHVILLE, TN (June 26, 2024) – Daywind Records is honored to announce the re-signing of 2X GRAMMY® nominated, 3X GMA Dove Award-winning, and 6X Singing News Soloist of the Year, Joseph Habedank to its family of artists. With more than two decades in partnership with Daywind Records featuring multiple critically acclaimed albums and songs, the re-signing marks a continuation of a relationship that has significantly contributed to the Southern Gospel songbook and broadened to the Church at large. Habedank’s career is marked by his captivating performances and powerful testimony of redemption and forgiveness.

“Daywind is not just a record label to me. They are family. After being on their roster for more than two decades now, it made perfect sense for me to re-sign with them. They signed me to my first record deal as a solo artist when I was only 6 months out of rehab, and I will never forget the chance they took on me. I am so grateful to Ed Leonard, Dottie Leonard, Dusty Wells, and the entire Daywind team for taking a chance on me yet again. The best is yet to come,” says Joseph Habedank.

Dusty Wells, director of artist & label relations at Daywind Records celebrates the re-signing by stating, “Joseph’s unwavering dedication to his gift, his redeeming testimony, and his remarkable talent have always been a perfect match for Daywind Records. Joseph has been with us since the beginning of his career, and we are absolutely thrilled to be able to walk alongside him and continue supporting him throughout his journey. We look forward to witnessing and helping get his music, story, and message out to not only his present fans and friends but helping and watching him garner a new audience along the way. We are so excited to be a part of this next chapter of his illustrious career.”

Nashville, TN – This June marks a monumental occasion in Gospel music as Chris Freeman celebrates her 50th anniversary since embarking on her distinguished career with The Hinsons, 2006 Gospel Music Hall of Fame inductees. This golden milestone is a testament to her enduring talent and dedication and a celebration of her profound impact on the Gospel music community. To honor this 50-year milestone, Chris’s acclaimed album, The Hinson Side of Me, initially released in 2016 and her only solo recording, is now available on streaming platforms for the first time via Symphonic Distribution. Stream HERE.

Chris’s journey began as Chris Hawkins in 1974 when, at 17, she moved from California to Nashville to join The Hinsons, a group renowned for their captivating harmonies and inspiring messages. With her powerful voice and heartfelt delivery, Chris quickly became a beloved figure in the Southern Gospel scene, winning numerous awards, consecutively being voted the Queen of Gospel Music in 1976 and 1977, and multiple Singing News Fan Awards for Favorite Alto. Chris is loved for her emotive vocal performances and genuine connection with her audience. Her singing has been described as “soul-stirring,” “profoundly moving,” and “a beacon of faith and hope.”

She spent seven years recording and touring with The Hinsons, and in 1980, she married Darrell Freeman of the Ohio-based family Gospel group, The Pathways. In 1983 Chris and Darrell moved to Hendersonville, TN, becoming The Freemans. For over four decades, The Freemans have been a driving force in the world of Gospel music, infusing their Southern-Country Gospel style with rich family harmony and a timeless message. Alongside their children, Misty and Caylon, and Darrell’s cousin, Joe Freeman, this powerhouse ensemble has recorded over twenty-five albums and earned numerous accolades, including multiple number-one hits on the Singing News charts. They have continued uplifting and inspiring audiences with their unwavering faith and musical artistry.

Chris reflects on this significant milestone: “It’s hard to believe it’s been 50 years since I first joined The Hinsons. I was just 17 years old, and joining them was one of the most challenging yet rewarding decisions of my life. I loved them with all my heart and learned so much during those years. Leaving them to marry Darrell was a difficult decision, but it was part of God’s plan for me. Together, Darrell and I have built a legacy with The Freemans, continuing to spread God’s word across the country. We are blessed with two wonderful children and four grandchildren, and I truly believe the best is yet to come. All I can say is, ‘My, how blessed I am.’”

The Hinson Side of Me is Chris’s first-ever solo recording, featuring mostly songs identified with her time with The Hinsons. This album highlights Chris’s roots while infusing her own unique style. She is joined by several guest artists, including the late Larry Hinson, Weston Hinson, Bo Hinson, Ronny Hinson, Mike Bowling, The Isaacs, and others, as she puts her own spin on The Hinsons classics.

Dixie Jane White McKeithen, beloved wife, mother, and respected Southern Gospel music artist and songwriter, was born on November 4, 1946, and passed away peacefully on June 22, 2024, at the age of 77.

Dixie was a devoted wife to Timothy McKeithen for 58 years and 4 months, and a loving mother to her daughter, Angelina McKeithen. Though she had no siblings, she grew up from infancy with her cousin Bonnie White, and they shared a middle name and a close bond like sisters that continued throughout their lives.

Dixie’s life was a testament to her deep faith, treasured marriage, love for her family and friends, and remarkable talents.

Dixie and Tim met at Bible College in Tupelo, Mississippi and were inseparable from then on, bound by their faith and love of music. Dixie’s contributions to the Southern Gospel music industry touched countless lives as a vocalist, songwriter, producer, and then as a booking agent. In her earlier years, Dixie was a cherished member of several Southern Gospel groups, including The Gospel Keys, The Hemphills, and The McKeithens. Dixie traveled for 21 years with the family group, The McKeithens, with Tim and Angelina. She sang and played piano and wrote and arranged many of their songs.

After retiring from the road and until her passing, Dixie worked for the Beckie Simmons Agency (BSA), a premier booking agency for Southern Gospel artists. She was instrumental in booking and advancing dates for the artists, and ensuring their tours ran smoothly. She loved Beckie and the entire BSA family dearly and enjoyed her role immensely.

Dixie was a member of Cornerstone Church until last year when she began attending World Outreach Church online. She was always ready to lend a helping hand and share her faith. She also enjoyed hosting gatherings around a meal at the kitchen table and was known to informally adopt a few people who did not have family nearby for holidays and Sunday dinners. Dixie was generous and refused to be turned away from “her blessings” when she saw someone in need.

Dixie was known for her love in action faith, hearty laugh, warmth, kindness, straight talk, and unwavering support for her family and friends. Dixie’s legacy will continue through her music and the many lives she impacted. She absolutely knew and loved her Lord and is resting peacefully in his arms today.

A graveside memorial service will be held at Christ Church Memorial Gardens on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. when friends and family will gather to celebrate her life and share memories.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Dixie McKeithen’s honor to Alive Hospice, 1718 Patterson Street, Nashville, TN 37203. https://www.alivehospice.org Their kindness and care in her final days was a comfort to Tim and reflect the loving care and community that were expressed in Dixie’s life.

Nashville, TN – As the summer season gets into full swing, StowTown Records has announced the release of a brand-new recording from beloved quartet, Poet Voices. It Won’t Be Long marks the debut release from the group on the StowTown label and features the quartet at its finest. Throughout the past three decades, Poet Voices,…

The post STOWTOWN RECORDS RELEASES LABEL DEBUT FROM POET VOICES appeared first on Southern Gospel News SGNScoops Digital.

Nashville, TN – StowTown Records has announced the release of a brand-new recording from quartet, Poet Voices. It Won’t Be Long marks the debut release from the group on the StowTown label.

Throughout the past three decades, Poet Voices, led by renowned singer/songwriter, Phil Cross, has thrilled audiences with hit after hit after hit. The group has earned Singing News Fan Awards, Gospel Music Association Dove Award© nominations and honors, as well as multiple number-one songs. Over the years, the faces and names who collectively complete the Poet Voices lineup may have changed, but under the leadership of Cross, the group has consistently delivered songs of hope and encouragement, delighting music lovers from all walks of life. The current lineup includes Cross and longtime group member Donny Henderson, along with tenor Jeff Snyder and bass KC Armstrong. Always striving to obtain musical excellence, Cross has never wavered in his commitment to remain true to his traditional roots, never compromising the message of the Gospel.

Produced by celebrated industry veteran, Wayne Haun, pianist and arranger, Trey Ivey, and multi-talented Poet Voices group member, Donny Henderson, this latest recording effort carries on the rich tradition of Poet Voices’ musical excellence. The project includes several previously released Cross-penned hits with fresh arrangements, as well as some brand-new songs, including the title cut written by Cross and Henderson. This upbeat, toe-tapper is already enjoying airplay at radio stations nationwide and is receiving rave reviews as it grabs listeners with its catchy melody and encouraging message. Others that are sure to become fan-favorites include “Jesus Brought Me Out,” “I Remember Lost” and “The Last Amen.”

Phil shares his excitement about releasing new music on the StowTown label, “I am so thrilled and blessed about the new Poet Voices music. This is our first StowTown project, and it’s absolutely the recording I’ve always dreamed of for Poet Voices. Included are some new songs Donny Henderson and I have written that we can’t wait to share. The project also contains an inspiring new song written by Kirk Talley. Then, a big highlight for me is the awesome, new treatment the incredible producers did on a few Poet Voices songs from the past. I really don’t have the words to express my enthusiasm for this recording! We are certainly praying God encourages and touches hearts with this new music.”

Longtime Poet Voices fans will enjoy walking down memory lane with the remakes of classics like “Jesus Built A Bridge,” “One Holy Lamb,” and “I Am Redeemed,” radio hits that helped Poet Voices become a household name. “These are such great songs that have stood the test of time,” states StowTown President and CEO Landon Beene. “It is wonderful to have the opportunity to bring back to life these timeless classics. No doubt, there are individuals who have never had the privilege to hear these songs, so we are excited to be able to present the message of these songs with fresh, reimagined arrangements and introduce the music of Phil Cross and Poet Voices to many new listeners.”

Distributed exclusively by Provident/Sony, It Won’t Be Long is available on all digital platforms worldwide. Stream the full project here.

Track List:

It Won’t Be Long
I Remember Lost
Jesus Built A Bridge
Jesus Brought Me Out
Hit The Altar
Grace & Glory
The Last Amen
One Holy Lamb
Doin’ What A Child Of The King Should Do
I Am Redeemed

1 When I Lift Up My Head High Road/Daywind 2 Living Water Bread Of Life Ben Rochester Family/Crossroads 3 Memories Of Home Authentic Unlimited/Billy Blue Records 4 It’s A Grand And Glorious Feeling Joe Mullins & Radio Ramblers/Billy Blue 5 God Knows Balsam Range/Crossroads 6 It Was Jesus Rightside/Family Music 7 The Storm Still Knows…

The post Congratulations to High Road and The SCOOPS Top 20 Bluegrass songs for July 2024 appeared first on Southern Gospel News SGNScoops Digital.

  1. There’s A Song For That Down East Boys/Crossroads 2. There Is A Name LeFevre Qt/Daywind 3. We Are The Church Ernie Haase & Signature Sound/StowTown 4. Be The Reason Steeles/StowTown 5. God Of A Second Chance Hoppers/Hopper Music 6. Come On In Kingdom Heirs/Crossroads 7. Heaven Is Happening Guardians/Daywind 8. He Bought Me…

The post Congratulations to The Down East Boys and the SCOOPS Top 100 July 2024 appeared first on Southern Gospel News SGNScoops Digital.

Nashville, TN – Just in time for the peak summer touring season, StowTown Records announces the release of a brand-new recording, God Is Listening, from industry icons, Triumphant Quartet. With numerous Singing News Fan Awards to their credit, as well as a GMA Dove Award© and a Grammy© nomination, this latest recording effort is sure…

The post STOWTOWN RECORDS ANNOUNCES NEW MUSIC FROM TRIUMPHANT QUARTET appeared first on Southern Gospel News SGNScoops Digital.

Actor/entertainer/author Randall Franks, “Officer Randy Goode” from TV’s “In the Heat of the Night” turns his focus on how life experiences have shown him faith in his new devotional book – “Seeing Faith : A Devotional.” “Throughout my day-to-day activities, I have seen folks responding to all that the world throws at them,” he said….

The post Actor/entertainer Randall Franks is Seeing Faith in his new book appeared first on Southern Gospel News SGNScoops Digital.