David Crowder Band Featured On CNN

Following its recent exposure in a New York Times cover story about the Passion Experience Tour, David Crowder Band was also featured this week on television's CNN Sunday Morning.

Lead singer David Crowder was interviewed live via satellite in Nashville as the annual Gospel Music Week kicked off, bringing artists and media from around the world to Music City. CNN's coverage, conducted by esteemed anchor Catherine Callaway in Atlanta, focused on Christian music's increasing sales in an otherwise sluggish marketplace. David Crowder Band offers a good example of the genre's ongoing upturn; its award-winning new album, ILLUMINATE, has significantly outpaced the sales of its well-acclaimed debut, CAN YOU HEAR US.

Intrigued by the popularity of David Crowder Band and creative pop/rock worship music in general, Callaway asked, "Do you consider yourself a rock star?" More...

Michael Tait To Sing With Santana On UK Tour And New LP

ForeFront Records artist Michael Tait (dc talk, TAIT, !HERO), one of the most respected and recognizable voices in Christian music, has been invited to tour internationally with rock guitar legend Carlos Santana.

"It is a great honor for me," says Tait. "To even be asked to join with one of the greatest artists in the history of rock and roll is humbling to say the least. I did not pursue this and was blown away when he called. While this is a great opportunity, let there be no question – I remain 100% committed to my own band, TAIT. One of the most attractive components of this is that I will be able to continue to record and perform with my band. Carlos has been so gracious; he has even asked me to perform two TAIT songs in the live show."

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The HOMECOMING Magazine. (A first class publication!)

Several years ago, almost by accident, something happened in a studio when some old friends got together to do some back-up singing. What began innocently enough as a good time for old friends in the studio has turned into a world wide phenomenon that has reintroduced new generations around the world to some of gospel music’s greatest artists. Folks that for a large part may have passed off the scene, unappreciated, unrecognized and unnoticed.

The man behind the phenomenon: Mr. Bill Gaither.
The name of the phenomenon: HOMECOMING

From cds to videos to dvds to concerts around the world to a first class publication. HOMECOMING is the word!

Just this past month I was introduced to a printed publication that would make any fan of Gospel Music proud. The HOMECOMING Magazine has something that rivals just do not have very much of these days. It’s called “content!”

Not just any content mind you, but quality content! And lots of it! Page for page the HOMECOMING magazine is by far the best printed publication in all of the Southern Gospel market. With relevant, timely articles that encourage, uplift and inform the many fans of Southern Gospel music, HOMECOMING accomplished the same thing in print that it has accomplished in music. A first class portrayal of the lives of those involved in Southern Gospel music and so many personal insights that the magazine is just plain hard to put down without trying to read the whole thing in a single setting.

It is very obvious that this publication has been well thought out, filled with wonderful insights and behind the scenes information, and even has a page devoted to HOMECOMING Kids! (They really do cover all the bases in this one!)

I recently spoke with executives from Salem Publishing about how the publication started and who was the brainchild More...

Singing in the Sun 2004!

The Talley Trio!
www.TalleyTrio.Com

How many ways can you say incredible? How deep into the very presence of the Lord can you go? Just how talented can one family possibly be? If you can answer those questions you just might know what it’s like to be in the audience as the Talley Trio leads you into the presence of the Lord.


The Singing in the Sun was one spectacular event! People from 37 states and 3 countries packed into the Myrtle Beach Convention Center with hundreds turned away. Fans of great Southern Gospel Music please don’t miss this event next year! WOW! 4 great days of some of the best worship & music I have ever had the chance to enjoy!

You can visit www.thesoutherngospel.com/Photos.html to view over 400 pictures from this incredible event. One things is for certain, if you want to attend an event that Ray Flynn Promotions is involved in putting together, don't forget your shouting shoes and buy your tickets early! It was sad to see so many turned away, but at 3700 seats the Myrtle Beach Convention Center is the biggest venue in Myrtle Beach.

A special thanks to all the staff members of The Southern Gospel.Com who worked so hard & to Ray Flynn of Ray Flynn Promotions www.rayflynnpromotions.com and to the board of Abraham Productions for being such gracious hosts. It has been our great pleasure to stand side by side with you covering this incredible event!

But most of all, thanks to the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords who showed up each night and changed forever the lives of over 150 people!



Artists met for prayer each night before the event.







View over 400 concert pictures at www.thesoutherngospel.com

Delirious Continues Support For AIDS Charities

British worship rock band Delirious, now on tour in the United States, will return to London, England, on May 11 to perform at a charity concert for the Cry In The Dark organization. Cry In The Dark operates an orphanage in Romania and is now raising funds to build a hospice for children with HIV/AIDS.

Delirious has offered outspoken support for AIDS charities around the world. In addition to its involvement with Cry In The Dark, the band recorded a cover of U2's "Pride (In The Name Of Love)" for IN THE NAME OF LOVE: ARTISTS UNITED FOR AFRICA. The all-star CD, which also includes exclusive new tracks from tobyMac, Chris Tomlin, Sanctus Real, Audio Adrenaline, Nichole Nordeman, and more, is specifically raising funds for the disease plagued African village of Mwakankomba in Zambia.

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And The Winners Are...

Song of the Year:
"Word of God Speak"; Pete Kipley, Bart Millard; Wordspring Music/Songs from the Indigo Room (SESAC), Simpleville Music (ASCAP)

Songwriter of the Year:
Mark Hall

Male Vocalist of the Year:
Jeremy Camp

Female Vocalist of the Year:
Stacie Orrico

Group of the Year:
MercyMe

Artist of the Year:
MercyMe
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GOSPEL MUSIC ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF GMA SPECIAL AWARDS

Winners Will Be Honored At Monday Morning Live During GMA Week 2004

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – April 21, 2004 – The Gospel Music Association (GMA) announced the recipients of its prestigious GMA Special Awards today, according to John W. Styll, president of the GMA. The recipients will be honored at the annual Monday Morning Live membership meeting which kicks off GMA Week 2004 on Monday, April 26 at 7:30 a.m. at the Renaissance Hotel in Nashville.
“We congratulate each of the deserving recipients and are grateful for the role they each play in furthering GMA’s mission of exposing, promoting and celebrating the gospel through music,” said John W. Styll, president of the GMA. The recipients of the seven award categories are:

Impact Award
The Impact Award is presented to the non-artist individual or organization that has made the most significant contribution to the gospel music industry. The recipient of the honor this year is Pro Tools.

Pro Tools digital audio production systems have revolutionized the music industry since they were first introduced by Digidesign, a division of Avid Technology, Inc. This ground-breaking software can be used for audio creation, production, and distribution. Pro Tools software, with its matchless combination of flexibility, power, and simplicity has become the industry standard for audio production. Pro Tools software is designed to empower both music and post production professionals to easily achieve all of their production tasks within one easy-to-use interface. For first time producers to the most advanced users, Pro Tools brings your creative universe together, making the process of audio production as efficient, effective, and fun as possible.

Past honorees of the Impact Award include Salem Communications’ FISH radio stations, SoundScan, Sandi Patty, Amy Grant, Dan Harrell and Michael Blanton, Jars of Clay, CCLI, NARM, CCM Communications, the Gaither “Homecoming Series” and the “WoW” series.

Lifetime Achievement Award
The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes major contributions to the gospel music industry through a company’s commitment to the Christian More...

Passion Packs NYC’s Beacon Theater; New York Times Reports

The Passion movement reached out in full force to New York City on April 15, packing the historic Beacon Theater with 3000 people for a free worship event featuring David Crowder Band, Chris Tomlin, and Charlie Hall, on a stage that had hosted American Idol winner Ruben Studdard the night before.

The Passion organization often seeks out major metropolitan areas where Christians lack support and conducts no-charge concerts to strengthen, connect, and encourage the local faith community. A similar event last year in Boston is now one of the largest college student meetings on record in that city.

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Something Like Silas - Alt-Rock Worshipers Debut June 15

Something Like Silas, a church-based alternative rock worship band with musical influences ranging from U2 to Radiohead, will release its debut album, DIVINE INVITATION, on June 15, featuring production by Steve Hindalong and Derri Daugherty (The Choir, City On A Hill).

The San Diego quintet, named after a Bible passage from Acts 6:23-24, has played in the same scene as fellow hometown acts Switchfoot and P.O.D., and is also known for helping found a local emerging church called Flood. There, Something Like Silas leads worship every Sunday for more than 3,000 members.

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Be the First to See Who Wins a Dove Award - Live on the Big Screen

The 35th Annual Music Awards will be shown live via satellite in High Definition and only in Regal Movie Theatres. Seating is Limited. Get Your Tickets Now at www.RegalCM.com

This year, for the very first time, you can unite with others across the country as GMA’s 35th Annual Music Awards (formerly the Dove Awards) comes to your community LIVE from Nashville - as it happens - on the big screen at your local Regal Movie Theatre. Join former NFL great Deion Sanders and gospel sensation Yolanda Adams as they co-host this phenomenal night of music and inspiration.

You'll receive an official commemorative program just like the ones handed out at the awards show with valuable coupons for your favorite music! And, Regal attendees receive a special "all access pass" as back stage host Rebecca St. James provides a fun, exciting look at what's happening behind the scenes.

Get your friends and family together for the ultimate inspirational celebration in music! Get your tickets today by visiting RegalCM.com or for group tickets of 50 or more, call 1-800-792-8244.

Newsboys To Perform On 35th Annual Dove Awards Broadcast

Following the group’s widely sold-out ADORATION concert tour this spring, Newsboys will perform live on the 35th Annual Dove Awards broadcast April 28 in Nashville. The show will air via satellite in select Regal Cinemas around the United States and at a later date on UPN.

Newsboys are nominated for Dove Awards in four major categories, including Song of the Year (“He Reigns”), Group of the Year, Worship Song (“He Reigns”), and Praise & Worship Album (ADORATION).

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Gospel Music Week Sunday Highlights with The Crabb Family

Catching up before the doors open were (L-R):Kelly Crabb Bowling, Aaron Crabb, Mark Shultz, Adam Crabb, Joy Williams, Jason Crabb and Mac Powell.

On Sunday afternoon of Gospel Music Week 2004, The Crabb Family participated in ARTS with many other Christian Music artists. Radio stations were invited to stock up on interviews and liners for their station from their favorite artists.


Pictured backstage (L-R): Jason Crabb; Host Bart Millard of Mercy Me; Gerald Crabb and Kim Williams, who penned "Three Wooden Crosses."

BMI Christian Songwriter of the Year, Gerald Crabb was invited to perform during the annual Songwriter's Showcase on Sunday night of Gospel Music Week. Due to an illness, Gerald's son Jason Crabb took the stage to sing their number one song "The Cross."

Integrity Quartet at Singing at the Sun!

We really enjoyed meeting the guys from the Integrity Quartet at Singing in the Sun! They did a great job on some wonderful Southern Gospel classics. Look for the complete story and interview on The Southern Gospel.Com ( www.thesoutherngospel.com ) in next few weeks.

Until then you can check them out at www.integrityquartet.com

“Chigger Hill Boys & Terri Claim #1 on Radio Chart”

HENDERSONVILLE, Tenn.— Thoroughbred recording artist Chigger Hill Boys & Terri recently claimed the number one position on the Bluegrass chart in Power Source Magazine for their hit song “Are You Prayin’Hard?” which held the spot for two months.

Mike Richards, Rodney Lay, Jr., Ricky Gore and Terri Argot, collectively known as The Chigger Hill Boys & Terri, have quietly and steadily built a loyal fan base of lovers of traditional bluegrass music. Last year, the group was nominated for a prestigious Dove Award by the Gospel Music Association. In August, they are scheduled to appear in Leepers Fork, TN with Vince Gill. The band recently released their brand new single “Afterlifetime Guarantee” to radio stations nationwide.

The Chigger Hill Boys & Terri are featured on the brand new project O Lord, How Great Thou Art! along side of Alison Krauss, the Lewis Family, Ricky Skaggs, Ralph Stanley, Bill Monroe and others.

Avalon - 'We've Been Called To Represent The Gospel.'

Even with a recent streak of #1 hits, a prestigious American Music Award, and two 2004 Dove Award nominations, lately Avalon has also weathered serious faith challenges. Now, the group tells ChristianityToday.com such hurdles have ultimately sharpened its purpose and a new album, THE CREED.

New members Greg Long and Melissa Greene are interviewed alongside founders Jody McBrayer and Janna Long, talking about everything from recent line-up changes and devastating personal losses to Greg and Janna's marriage and the renewed ministry and musical passion that went into making THE CREED.

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Delirious Rocks Germany’s Mainstream TV, Radio Stations

British rock band Delirious, known for writing definitive worship anthems, is fast becoming a popular mainstream TV and radio sensation in Germany with the release of its new album, WORLD SERVICE.

The success is centered on the single and video for “Inside Outside,” which recently hit #1 on Germany’s top radio station, SWR3, and continues to chart ahead of new songs by Alanis Morissette, Black Eyed Peas, and 3 Doors Down. Additionally, the largest TV program in Germany, SWR 3 RING-FREI-TV, comparable to The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, featured Delirious performing three tracks from WORLD SERVICE. The group also played an acoustic version of “Inside Outside” on VIVA interaktiv, a network similar to VH-1 that draws 10 million teenage viewers each week.

Delirious has now been invited to perform in one of the headline slots at Germany’s SWR Arena In The Park festival on June 12, where 80,000 people are expected to attend.

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Starfield - Self-titled - Available May 18

Starfield’s self-titled US debut album ebbs and flows with worshipful nuances, and finds an honest balance between worship anthems, pop harmonies and rock moments. As one of Canada’s premier Christian artists, their Sparrow Records debut album brims with vivid worship lyrics and overflows with melody, recalling the best moments of Delirious?, Jars of Clay and Mercy Me. Features the songs “Filled With Your Glory”, “Alive In This Moment” and “Tumbling After”.

Matthew West Marks Radio History With 'More'

The new guy makes history! Congratulations to debut artist Matthew West, whose first single, “More,” has now spent eight consecutive weeks at #1 on Radio & Records’ Christian adult contemporary chart. No other new act has held the top spot this long since the publication began tracking Christian airplay in 2001.

“When any artist spends multiple weeks at #1 on any chart it is a feat,” says R&R Christian editor, Rick Welke. “When a new artist makes it to the top of a chart it is huge news. For Matthew to make it a record-breaking eight weeks at the top spot, that is an unbelievable accomplishment. ‘More’ is a massive song that has hit the bull’s-eye with Christian radio!”

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Switchfoot Surprises Fans With Unscheduled Performance

While San Diego rockers Switchfoot sell out concerts across the United States in the wake of MTV hit “Meant To Live,” the band clearly has not sold out its personal integrity or commitment to fans, as evidenced by a recent event in Minneapolis.

According to CCM Magazine’s Web site, Switchfoot was in the Twin Cities area to perform another standing-room-only show when lead singer Jon Foreman decided to greet people standing outside the club who were not able to get tickets for the concert.

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Steven Curtis Chapman Plans Summer Concerts, Fall Album

Steven Curtis Chapman, nominated for several 2004 Dove Awards, including Song of the Year (“All About Love”), Male Vocalist, Pop/Contemporary Album (ALL ABOUT LOVE), and Long Form Video (LIVE), is gearing up for a string of summer concert events and a new album this fall.

The 47-time Dove Award winner returns to onstage action June 17, performing at the Billy Graham Crusade in Kansas City. He’s also scheduled for headlining shows at AtlantaFest (June 18), Alive Festival in Canal Fulton, Ohio (June 19), and several more Christian music festivals throughout the season, including Creation East and West, KLTY’s Celebrate Freedom, and Spirit West Coast. Audiences may be treated to a sneak preview of songs from Chapman’s next album, now scheduled for September release.

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Bethany Dillon Records Amy Grant’s 'Lead Me On'

Her introductory 5-song EP, THE BEAUTIFUL SESSIONS, reached #1 at GrassrootsMusic.com this winter. Now, 15 year-old Bethany Dillon’s self-titled debut, in stores April 20, will feature a rendition of another well-known chart topper, Amy Grant’s “Lead Me On.”

Bethany, whose first single, “Beautiful,” is a current adult contemporary hit, is already receiving favorable comparisons to artists like Sheryl Crow and Sarah McLachlan. The album is produced by Ed Cash (Bebo Norman) and Joshua Moore (Caedmon’s Call).

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Kelly Minter Shares Hope With Inmates During Easter Weekend

Nashville, TN ­ Cross Driven Records singer/songwriter Kelly Minter experienced more than the traditional Easter service this past weekend when she joined Prison Fellowship founder Chuck Colson at four prisons in Gatesville, Texas. Minter was part of a team of singers led by Colson and Prison Fellowship president and CEO Mark Earley that ministered to 3,600 women inmates during several chapel services on Saturday and Sunday of Easter weekend.

Minter, who has been supporting Prison Fellowship Ministries over the past several years, had many memorable moments during the weekend, but two women really stood out in her mind because of how much they had touched her heart. While on death row at one of the prisons, Minter sat on her guitar case in front of an inmate and played "You¹re Listening," a song about the way that God is always listening though we may not always hear Him answer us. In another service, Minter was able to share the Gospel with an eighteen year-old woman, who because of drug abuse would be in prison for most of her life.
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Memphis Rockers Skillet Pact With Lava Records

NEW YORK, NY—Lava Records jumps into the fire with Skillet, the melodic, hard rock quartet who originally hail from Memphis, Tennessee. Previously signed to Ardent Records, Skillet has released a total of four albums, which have sold upwards of 400,000 units in the U.S. Skillet joins the Lava roster alongside Kid Rock, Uncle Kracker, Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Simple Plan. The band will release their new album entitled Collide on Lava Records on May 25th.

“We have been waiting for the door to open for a deal like this for about six years now, and this opportunity with LAVA is a definite answer to prayer,” comments Skillet lead singer John Cooper. “We truly desire to get the message and our music out to an audience that needs to hear a positive word in today's violent world. Lava has been awesome to work with so far, and even though we have only been partnering with them for a short while, I couldn't be any happier with how things are going between us. We look forward to what the future will bring!”
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Caraway Media Group announces 2004 Gospel Voice Awards.

Caraway Media Group is proud to be the official sponsor for The 2004 Gospel Voice Awards. The Gospel Voice Awards will include all types of Gospel and Christian Music. We will be revealing the selection process over the next 6 weeks and letting you know how you will be able to help select this years winners!

With help from www.TheSouthernGospel.Com and www.SoGospel.Com , you can be sure that every type of Gospel Music will be well represented. Lot's of new categories this year including new "Junior" (under age 16) and "Regional" (local, non-touring) artist categories.

*Special note: If we don't have a project then that artist or project cannot be considered and will be disqualified after the first round of open nominations. We strongly encourage all artists to get with their record labels and make sure that we have a copy of any projects completed in the past 12 months.

The address for submissions is:
Caraway Media Group
c/o Gospel Voice Awards
PO BOX 1399
Asheboro, NC 27204-1399

Keep checking back for instructions on nomination forms and upcoming on-line and mail-in balloting for your favorite artists!

A new web site for the awards will be revealed on June 1st! www.gospelvoiceawards.com

“Mike Bowling In Studio”

Mike Bowling in the studio

HENDERSONVILLE, Tenn.---Popular soloist Mike Bowling has recently spent time in Daywind Sky Studios working on his upcoming project, Where I Stand, set for a June 8 release.

Making a special appearance on the hand clapping tune “Movin’ On” is Joyce Martin McCullough. Angie Hoskins Aldridge adds background vocals on the track “The Heat of the Battle.”

At a relatively young age, Mike Bowling knew what he wanted to do with his life. He began singing and playing piano in church at age nine, and at sixteen, was invited to join the legendary family group, The LeFevres. Over the next several years, he would form a group with his brother (Family Tradition), join two well-known southern gospel groups (New Hinsons and Perrys) and made a name for himself as one of the top voices in the industry. But his life took a major turn in 1998 when he met a beautiful blond teenager singing with her family ... her name was Kelly Crabb, and her family was a young, up-and-coming group known as The Crabb Family.

Today, Mike and Kelly enjoy a full life together, on and off the road. They now have two young daughters and are able to travel together, singing and ministering. Mike is given the opportunity to share his music with thousands of people every week, and spends his life hanging out with his wife, kids and a large extended family of Crabb brothers, sisters-in-law and their children. Mike says, "It’s never boring, always fun, and I wouldn’t change a thing."

Where I Stand will be distributed by New Day Christian Distributors, Word Entertainment, and WEA. For more information on Mike Bowling, visit www.mikebowling.net or www.daywindrecords.com

Congratulations to Lucas Savage of Wilton, ME

And the Winner is: LUCAS SAVAGE, WILTON, MAINE


Congratulations to Lucas Savage of Wilton, ME for being our grand prize winner of the “Can I Pray for You?” sweepstakes. After getting Mark to submit 4 numbers we matched those numbers up against the entries we received and Lucas Savage entry matched Marks birthday and so he is the Grand Prize Winner. I spoke with Lucas and found out that he is 15 years old and is in a Southern Gospel group that sings around the Maine area.


One of the CD's being mailed out to the winners!

Our other lucky winners who will be receiving autographed copies of Mark’s latest project are as follows:

Mark Haynes from Ganado, AZ
Ginger Platka from Grafton, NH
Carole Powell from Wilmington DE.

Congratulations to these lucky winners!

A very special thanks to Mark Bishop and the folks at Crossroads and Sonlite Records for helping with this promotion.

Here is an update from Roger Bennett

Roger Bennett of Legacy 5

Here is an update from Roger Bennett

I'm lying in bed right now taking my first treatment. I guess this is day -13. I will be admitted into the hospital next Wednesday.

I received my test results from the latest lymph node biopsy. The news wasn't what I hoped for. It seems that my leukemia has transformed into lymphoma. Apparently a more aggressive form of cancer than CLL. This will not change the bone marrow transplant except that I guess the stakes are higher now. Lymphoma if not controlled quickly can have a more serious outcome.

Of course this is not the news that we wanted, but I promise you that my trust is intact. If I believed God could bring me through my first diagnosis nearly 9 years ago, I have to believe that He will get me through this most recent trial.

I know many of you have been waiting to hear the results and will be upset with this report, but let me encourage you to trust God. I've been blessed too much to think that God has anything but my good in store either way.

I've heard the poetic expression, "My faith still holds", true, but at times like these when my vision is blurred by the bad news of today, it's not about me or my performance with my faith. It's about His power to "hold me".

I will be taking this treatment until at least 3 am. My shadow (Debbie) is right here taking every hit that I take, so pray for her strength tonight as well.

Still In His Grip!

Roger

Dr. Charles A. Carpenter passed away.

Dr. Charles A. Carpenter, husband of Ramona Klaudt Carpenter, and former member of The Klaudt Indian Family, passed away April 11, 2004 in St. Joseph Hospital, Atlanta, GA. Chuck, as he was known to Family members, had been battling heart problems for several years. Dr. Carpenter held a BA from Oglethorpe University, a Masters of Divinity from Emory University , a Doctoral and CPE from Emory. He is a former Professor at Lee University in Cleveland, TN and Associate Pastor of Mt. Paran Church of God in Atlanta, GA. For over twenty years he served Crawford Long Hospital, Egleston Children's Hospital and Southern Regional Medical Center, in Metro Atlanta, as Clinical Pastoral Educational Director. For the past 6 years, he has served as Senior Pastor of Trinity Community Church in Hampton, GA.

Visitation will be 6-9 PM Tuesday April 13, 2004 at Bill Head Funeral Home Duluth, GA. The funeral service will be held Wednesday the 14th @ 2 Pm in the
funeral home chapel. For additional information email: klaudt@earthlink.net

GMA ANNOUNCES RADIO STATIONS OF THE YEAR

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – April 7, 2004 – The Gospel Music Association (GMA) has announced the recipients of awards in the 2004 GMA/NCRS Radio Station of the Year contest.
The radio station awards are presented to those Christian radio stations that meet the highest standards of quality and have the strongest impact on their listening areas. Awards are given to major, large, medium and small market stations.


SMALL MARKET
WBGL - Champaign, IL - Chuck Pryor, Station Mgr.
MEDIUM MARKET
WCQR - Johnson City, TN - Mike Perry, Station Mgr.

LARGE MARKET
KXOJ - Tulsa, OK - David Stephens, Station Mgr.

MAJOR MARKET
KLTY - Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX - John Peroyea, Station Mgr.

The recipient in each market category was determined by a panel of judges who reviewed the following areas - community involvement, ratings, air check and industry leadership.

The radio stations will be acknowledged during the 35th Annual GMA Music Awards on April 28, 2004 in Nashville. The awards are the culminating event for GMA Week 2004, which includes radio specific programming through the National Christian Radio Seminar (NCRS).

About GMA: Founded in 1964, the 4,500-member Gospel Music Association (www.gospelmusic.org) is dedicated to exposing, promoting and celebrating the gospel through music. The GMA represents all styles of gospel music including contemporary pop, rock, urban gospel, praise & worship, southern gospel, country and children’s gospel music. The GMA produces GMA’s Annual Music AwardsTM, which recognizes achievement in all genres of gospel music.

Newsboys Wrap Adoration Tour; Headline Summer Festivals

On April 4, Newsboys wrapped their most successful concert run to date, ADORATION: THE WORSHIP TOUR, which sold out 25 of 35 shows, playing to more than 150,000 people.

The tour supported Newsboys’ latest recording, ADORATION: THE WORSHIP ALBUM, which features the #1 hit “He Reigns” and is nominated for the 2004 Praise & Worship Album of the Year Dove Award.

Fans were also able to meet new Newsboys guitarist Bryan Olesen, a former full time youth and worship director. He will be with the band this summer when it headlines Christian music festivals across America including Creation East and West, Sonshine, Kingdom Bound, and more.

See candid band-cam pictures and read concertgoer testimonials from ADORATION: THE WORSHIP TOUR, check out a fun interview with new-guy Olesen, and find a future Newsboys show near you at www.Newsboys.com

Charlie Peacock’s Full Circle: 'A Five-Diamond Recording'

This circle is a diamond… DiscerningReader.com has given the new Charlie Peacock album, FULL CIRCLE: A CELEBRATION OF SONGS AND FRIENDS, its very top “five-diamond” rating.

“This collection provides ample proof that God bless a young Charles Ashworth (a.k.a. Charlie Peacock) with not only extraordinary gifts but a profound vision for what ‘contemporary Christian music’ could become,” says Discerning Reader. “Now, some twenty years later, this recording chronicles his remarkable songs of faith, hope and love – with stunning arrangements that showcase his renowned creativity as a musician, songwriter and producer. There is no doubt that, when future generations study the history of CCM, Charlie Peacock will figure as one of its most outstanding contributors. A rare, well-deserved, five-diamond recording.”
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Grandpa Brady at the Crossing.

George Washington Brady ( A long time ago)

We Brady’s have always been risk takers. This is a picture of my late Grandpa Brady parked on the railroad tracks in what appears to be a youthful display of pure defiance in the face of great danger. (LOL!)

Just think, if he didn't have the good sense to get off the tracks I might not be here today!

(He also smoked Camels till the day he died at 85 plus years of age. Which just goes to prove if the train don’t get you the smoking will!)

An update on George and Clara Younce from Tara:

It's been just over a month since Dad's cardiac arrest. He continues to improve a little each day. He doesn't have much stamina and is still having trouble sleeping at night, but is just thankful he's here at all. He tries to ride his stationary bike a little everyday to help gain strength back in his legs. Dad never gives up and his positive attitude helps all of us to get by.

Mom is doing very well. I took her to the doctor last week and he was very pleased with the mobility she has in both knees. It's been a long time since she hasn't had any pain in her knees. We are all so happy for her. Dad says she's able to kick his little butt around the house again!

As always, we appreciate your concern and prayers. We are so blessed by God's touch and for such caring and loving friends. You all are great!

Tara

**(Editors note) We certainly rejoice with Tara over the improvements in her mom and dad’s health. George Younce has played such a vital roll in Southern Gospel music and many of our readers send us e-mails wanting updates on his health. Thanks to the family for keeping our readers up to date!

Scott Riggan To Host The Jesus Film World Report

Huntington Beach, CA - Recording artist Scott Riggan has been chosen to host "The JESUS Film World Report," a daily sixty-second syndicated radio feature. "The JESUS Film World Report" will offer inspiring true stories of how the love of Jesus is reaching into every corner of the globe. Listeners will experience the accounts of missionaries worldwide who are sharing the story of Christ with people who have never before had the chance to hear.

Servicing will be every other month via CD. Each CD will contain 40 sixty-second clips that can be incorporated easily into virtually any radio format.
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Laura Marie Jones receives Klaudt Indian Scholarship

Laura Marie Jones


Laura Marie Jones, an Echota Cherokee Indian from Trinity, Alabama received The Klaudt Indian Memorial Foundation's first Scholarship. Ms Jones, a senior at Lee University, Cleveland, Tennessee received the Scholarship at a presentation at The Conn Center on March 18, 2004. At the presentation, Ms. Jones sang a heart warming rendition of the song "His Strength is Perfect". The Foundation's Scholarship was presented in honor of Lillian Little Soldier Klaudt and the Rev. R.H. Klaudt, who both passed away in 2001. The Klaudt Indian Family, originally from North Dakota, traveled for over 50 years in Southern Gospel Music before retiring in the early 1980's and settling in Metro Atlanta, Georgia.


The Jody Brown Indian Family

The Jody Brown Indian Family was probably the highlight of the evening's festivities. This family of Cherokees, from near Cherokee, NC, are probably one of the most exciting singing groups in the Nation. The talent of, son Jeremy on the guitar and daughter Stephanie on the mandolin is quite exuberating. Their rendition of America the Beautiful, sung acappella to begin their stand, brought tears and a standing ovation from the crowd. They are composed of Jeremy Brown, Stephanie Brown, Ashley Brown, Jeremy's wife, Donna and Jodie Brown.


The Klaudt Brothers with Laura Jones


The Voices of Lee bringing the audience to their feet with three spirited acappella numbers.

(All photo's appear courtesy of Dr. Monte Klaudt who resides in San Diago, California)

To learn more about the Klaudt Indian Memorial Foundation you may visit them on-line at:
www.klaudtmemorial.com

X2004 Collection Marks The Spot For Rock Music Fans

Sparrow Records sister labels BEC and ForeFront have joined forces to release X2004, an aggressive new music collection featuring 17 of the year’s ultimate Christian rock songs, in stores everywhere now.

X2004 highlights the top-selling work of Skillet (“Savior”), Kutless (“Treason”), tobyMac (“One Phenom – Remix”), Relient K (“I Am Understood”), Pillar (“Bring Me Down”), Audio Adrenaline (“Worldwide: TWO”) and 12 Stones (“Crash”). Also included are heavy tracks from Jeremy Camp, Big Dismal, Tait, KJ-52, and Superchic[k], plus a bonus cut from The Cross Movement that is featured in Livin’ It, a new film produced by actor Stephen Baldwin.

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INO Partners With Epic To Sign "Oprah's Pop Star Challenge" Winner Lashell Griffin

NASHVILLE, TN… Voting results of "Oprah's Pop Star Challenge" were recently announced, and the winner, LaShell Griffin, a 36-year-old stay-at-home mother of five from Detroit, Michigan, received an Epic Records recording contract. INO Records has partnered with Epic to release Griffin’s debut, FREE, to the CBA market on May 25, 2004.

"We are so pleased to know LaShell is a woman of faith," comments INO Records' president, Jeff Moseley. "Her love for God shows in the smile on her face and just how she lights up a room. We're excited to be working with LaShell on this project, as it holds great opportunities for the Christian marketplace."
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Switchfoot 'Dare You To Move' Video Now Playing Online

Yahoo for Yahoo.com! The popular Web site’s music page, Launch, is now showing Switchfoot’s brand new video, “Dare You To Move,” the latest hit from THE BEAUTIFUL LETDOWN. The performance-driven concept clip was recently filmed on location in Los Angeles.

Launch also features additional Switchfoot video content, including a live performance of “Dare You To Move” and exclusive band interview. Launch the Switchfoot footage at www.Launch.com .

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Matthew West Shoots Hoops With Vince Gill, Scores #1 Hit

Up and coming Sparrow artist Matthew West entertained the entertainers recently, performing songs from his debut album, HAPPY, including the #1 hit, “More,” at the 12th Annual Vince Gill Celebrity Basketball Game & Concert in Nashville.

Playing for charity, participants included Amy Grant, comedian Cledus T. Judd, country acts Chely Wright and Rascal Flatts, and several members of the Tennessee Titans football team.

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Redman, Tomlin, Hughes Tell Stories Behind Worship Songs

The stories behind today’s favorite worship songs are now available online, including Matt Redman’s “The Heart Of Worship,” Chris Tomlin’s “Forever,” and Tim Hughes’ “Here I Am To Worship.”

Redman tells Songs4Worship.com that he wrote “The Heart Of Worship” at a time when his home church in England was experiencing a lack of spiritual passion.

“There was a dynamic missing, so the pastor did a pretty brave thing,” he recalls. “He decided to get rid of the sound system and band for a season, and we gathered together with just our voices. His point was that we’d lost our way in worship, and the way to get back to the heart would be to strip everything away.”

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David Crowder Band & Delirious Unite For Shows In April

Two of today’s most acclaimed and innovative modern worship rock acts, David Crowder Band and Delirious, will join together for a handful of US concerts in April.

Currently headlining its own ILLUMINATE tour, which has sold out seven dates in the past month, David Crowder Band will be the special guest at four Delirious WORLD SERVICE concerts, including Woodlands, TX (April 9), Clinton, MS (April 13), Chicago, IL (April 20), and Peoria, IL (April 21).
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New Trio makes waves! (Air waves that is.)

New Independent artist BELOVED get spins on Dove Award winning Station of the Year for Contemporary Christian format, Joy FM out of Sarasota FL.

Few Southern Gospel groups have found themselves being played on strictly Contemporary Christian radio stations. Even fewer artist made it without the assistance of a label and lots of money behind them. In cases like these the music speaks for itself. Laura Chase, of the popular morning show “Bill and Friends”, emailed the group asking for a copy of the song. She said that people were telling her she needs to hear this song “Child Of The King” by Beloved. After contacting the group, Laura said, “we got your CD..AND LOVE “CHILD OF THE KING”! The shows feature spot, “Friday’s Feel Good Song” was reserved for “Child Of The King” on this day. Laura went on to say, “our listeners will love it…even though we are Contemporary Christian format…this is GREAT. The song was meet with such high demand that the station had to air the song twice during the morning show. Maybe the Contemporary market is ready for some progressive Southern Gospel?

The Atlanta-based trio Beloved, just released their debut self titled album last month. After being perused by several major labels the group decided to go it on their own. Their first single “Child Of The King” was very well received by reporting Southern Gospel stations. The group penned, “Child Of The King” was picked up by 60 stations around the country.

This is a link to the Bill and Friends home page which features Beloved

www.thejoyfm.com/program.cfm?pid=1

www.belovedga.com

travis@belovedga.com

Bethany Dillon - Self-titled CD - Available April 20

Every so often an artist comes along who stops you in your tracks with their thoughtful, poignant and enriching music. Bethany Dillon is one such artist whose self-titled debut delves into the themes of the modern Christian’s heart and journey from the very first note.

Through songs such as “Beautiful,” “Great Big Mystery,” and “Revolutionaries” Bethany’s profound song-writing and accessible acoustic-rock sound allows her to connect with music listeners of all ages. Expect to be encouraged, challenged and renewed with each listen of Bethany Dillon.

Thoughtful, moving music; get your copy of Bethany Dillon, in stores everywhere April 20.