Today's News

Greater Vision has named Jacob Kitson as the group's new tenor. Jacob is from Yuma, Arizona, but has lived in the Nashville, Tennessee area for the last seventeen months, and will soon be relocating to Morristown.

Kitson, 24, is a graduate of Grace Baptist College in Gaylord, Michigan. He is the eldest son of Kevin and Gina Kitson, and has three brothers and eight sisters.

Jacob has traveled with the Tribute Quartet since their inception in 2006, and was a founding member of the group.

Gerald Wolfe states... "We are really excited about Jacob joining Greater Vision. The first time I met him, which was about one year ago, I knew he was a very special and gifted young man with a real heart for ministry. He was the first person to call me after the announcemet of Jason's departure, and he is the only person we actually auditioned. We knew he was the right man from the start."

Rodney Griffin said... "I look forward to what the Lord has in store as Jacob joins our ministry. Jacob says he's been a Greater Vision fan since he was a teenager. Now that's he's joining us, we'll see how long he remains one! LOL"

Jacob commented..."I am looking forward to serving side by side each night with men who have dedicated their lives to a ministry of Christ-honoring Christian music. I can say this is a great honor and I'm pleased to be part of such a team."

Jason Waldroup, who will be leaving Greater Vision in August, said..."I'm glad we've found someone who I believe is, first and foremost, a man of God. I'm sure everyone who meets him is going to love him. I hope to be a help to him anyway that I can during this transition. God has great things in store for Greater Vision."

Jacob will begin traveling with Greater Vision in June, and his first official concert with the group will be August 6 in Lebanon, Missouri.

Greater Vision will be in the recording studio later this month working on Jacob's debut recording with the group.

The Home-going Celebration service for Dottie Rambo will be held at Christ Church, 15354 Old Hickory Blvd., Nashville, TN 37211, on Monday, May 19, at 1 PM. Close friends and family are invited to a visitation in the Hospitality Center at Christ Church from 11 AM to 12:30 PM prior to the service.

Entombment at the mausoleum at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Memorial Park will be for family only immediately following her Home-going Celebration.

Visitations will be on Saturday, May 17, from 4 to 8 PM and Sunday, May 18, from 2 to 4 PM at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home, 660 Thompson Lane, Nashville, TN 37204.

Visitations and services are open to the public unless otherwise noted.

Donations to help offset the expenses of the funeral can be made payable to the Dottie Rambo Memorial Fund and mailed to P. O. Box 50508, Nashville, TN 37205.

Christ Church
15354 Old Hickory Blvd.
Nashville, TN 37211
For directions, click here.

Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home
660 Thompson Lane
Nashville, TN 37204
For directions, click here.

Larry Ferguson is no longer in critical condition. He has suffered two broken legs as well as other injuries, but he is conscious. Chris Barnes is still critical at this time. Larry's wife, Judy, suffered a broken collar bone and has been released from the hospital, but is staying at the hospital with one of her sons who has not been released yet.

Previous reports that the bus driver, Ronnie Meadows, was killed were inaccurate. He is alive but in critical condition.

We will be posting more info as it is received. Please be praying for all the families involved in this tragedy.

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ORIGINAL INFO

We received word this morning that Dottie Rambo was killed last night in a tour bus accident. Dottie was scheduled to appear at North Richland Hills, Texas at the Fountain Of Life Church at 10:30 AM with her dear friends Lulu Roman and Naomi Sego this morning, so we are assuming she was on route to Texas when the accident occurred.

We will post more info whrn it is received. Please be in prayer for the family at this time.

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MORE INFO

Reports indicate that the accident was weather-related, and that other passengers were also injured. The accident happened outside of Springfield, Missouri. Manager Larry Ferguson is in critical condition, but his wife and children appear to be fine. It is believed that the bus driver was also killed.

We received word this morning that Dottie Rambo was killed last night in a tour bus accident. Dottie was scheduled to appear at North Richland Hills, Texas at the Fountain Of Life Church at 10:30 AM with her dear friends Lulu Roman and Naomi Sego this morning, so we are assuming she was on route to Texas when the accident occurred.

We will post more info whrn it is received. Please be in prayer for the family at this time.

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MORE INFO

Reports indicate that the accident was weather-related, and that other passengers were also injured. The accident happened outside of Springfield, Missouri. Manager Larry Ferguson is in critical condition, but his wife and children appear to be fine. It is believed that the bus driver was also killed.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sylacauga, AL.- Popular southern gospel trio, To The End, has undergone recent personnel changes. David Deloach joined the group as bass singer, filling the position in January 2008. David hails from the Sylacauga, AL. area and looks forward to a bright future with To The End. David is certainly no stranger to southern gospel music and is also a very talented drummer.

The position of lead singer has now been filled by Jimmy Reno. Jimmy hails from the Birmingham, AL. area and brings along a background that is rooted in southern gospel music. Jimmy just recently joined the group and his first appearance with To The End was a concert date in which the group recently opened for Gold City.

David and Jimmy join group owner/manager Neil Skipworth in sharing a vision for seeing lives touched through the ministry of To The End. The group is currently promoting their latest project, Forgiven, as they prepare to enter the studio soon for a new recording.

For more information on To The End, you can visit the group’s website at http://www.totheendquartet.com

Hendersonville, TN (May 9, 2008) – Daywind Music Publishing is pleased to announce that award winning songwriter, Marcia Henry, has signed an exclusive songwriting agreement with Daywind Publishing, making her an incredible addition to an already outstanding roster of songwriters.

Some of Henry’s credits include the recent #1 song from Karen Peck and New River, “Last Night.” Other top songs include the Perrys’ new single, “The Potter Knows The Clay,” and classics, such as, ”Roses Will Bloom Again” and “Thread of Hope,” to name just a few.

Creative Director for Daywind Music Publishing, Rick Shelton, expressed his excitement with the addition. “I am delighted to welcome Marcia Henry into the Daywind family. Her writing consistently continues to impact Southern Gospel Music and the lives of those who are fortunate enough to experience her songs. Marcia’s melodies and lyrics spring from a deep well of Living Water that refreshes and encourages the listener who thirsts for hope. We are blessed to support this talented songwriter.”

Marcia had this to say about joining the Daywind Publishing family. "I am looking forward to this association with Daywind Publishing. I hope to see more of my songs finding their way to the right artists and I believe Rick Shelton is passionate about that very thing.

Daywind Records President, Ed Leonard, states, “Marcia Henry is an anointed songwriter. I am very excited that she chose Daywind to assist in her songwriting ministry. We look forward to a long relationship with her."

For more information on Daywind Music Group, visit http://www.daywind.com

Aileen Avery is a three-year-old child who has been stricken with cancer and is gravely ill. Her community has come together to create a benefit event intended to raise much needed funds for her care. The event will take place at New Life Christian Worship Center, located at 630 Highway 41A South in Providence, Kentucky, on Saturday, May 17, 2008 from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Bring a lawn chair and expect a blessing! If it is raining, the event will be held inside the church. Concessions will be available.

“The Original Gospel Sounds” will be appearing in concert beginning at 6:30 pm. Many local talents will also be featured. There is no admission, but a free-will offering will be accepted. All proceeds will go to the “Aileen Avery Benefit Fund”.

“The Original Gospel Sounds” perform a mixture of older favorites as well as their own original material, the goal of the group is to give hope to Christians and non-Christians alike.

Bring out the family for an evening of great food, music and fun! For more information on the Original Gospel Sounds, you can visit them on the web at http://www.gospelsoundsministries.org

FAYETTEVILLE, NC - Michael Davis of the Dominion Agency is proud to announce Parker Webb has joined the staff as a booking agent. Parker is a member of the talented family music ministry, The Webbs from Colfax, North Carolina. He has been attending the College at Southwestern in Fort Worth, Texas and will be transferring this fall to the College at Southeastern in Wake Forest, North Carolina.

"Parker has a contagious personality and possesses the people skills needed to be an effective booking agent," commented Michael Davis. "He is an outstanding young man with an impeccable Christian witness. I look forward to Parker working along side Sophia, Christian and me as we seek to represent our artist roster with the utmost integrity and professionalism."

The Dominion Agency roster consists of the Triumphant Quartet, Collingsworth Family, The Greenes, The Webbs, The Nelons, The Browns, Driven and many more talented artists. Parker Webb can be contacted by emailing him at or by calling him direct at 910.364.5565. Visit http://www.thedominionagency.com for more information.

HENDERSONVILLE, TN- Creative Vision Entertainment announces the signing of Worship band, Four Days Late to an exclusive booking agreement. Four Days Late is based out of Gadsden, AL and began in 2000 as a worship band for the Baptist Campus Ministries at Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, AL.

April Holleman, President of Creative Vision Entertainment states, “We are thrilled about working with Four Days Late. I have worked with many artists over the years, but I have never seen an artist with such drive, passion and work ethic. These guys truly want to minister and touch people; they are not standing on the sidelines waiting for things to happen! They are aggressively working along side us to reach as many people as we can for God. They have so much potential and we are looking forward to helping them walk through doors God has already begun to open.”

Robby comments, “I am really excited about our partnership with Creative Vision Entertainment. I believe April and her team is going to be a valuable addition to us. Her desire and enthusiasm for ministry definitely meets the expectations we have and we look forward to a long lasting relationship.” Joel adds, “Creative Vision has been an answered prayer for us. April has already made a huge impact in our ministry and I am excited about our future together. This partnership is just what we have been looking for to get to the next level in our ministry. We cannot wait to see what God has in store for us.”


Four Days Late just recently released Waiting, a collection of 10 original songs written by the band, which features a variety of modern worship songs with mainstream rock flair. Produced by Barry Blair (Audio Adrenaline, Bleach), this project launches into new territory to reach multi-generational hearts who are thirsty for true, honest worship. Their current single and first national radio release, Glorious King, moved to #6 on the CRW IAA chart after only four weeks. The single was sent to R&R AC radio last week.


For more information on Four Days Late or Creative Vision Entertainment, visit http://www.creativevisionentertainment.com or http://www.fourdayslatemusic.com . 

You may reach them via phone at 615.822.0036 or by email at

Nashville, TN (May 8, 2008) – The Southern Gospel Music Forum radio program will feature Dora Pop on Tunes4Him, this Mother's Day weekend. SGMF will be featuring music from Dora's brand new project titled Who Am I on Saturday May 10, and Sunday May 11, at 3:00PM EST.

Along with the spotlight on Dora, SGMF will be playing some brand new music from Greater Vision, the Gaither Vocal Band and others. SGMF will also be featuring some old Southern Gospel favorites as well.

Gospel music's favorite mixed quartet, the Perrys, join renowned pianist, Gordon Mote, as just a few of the many talented musicians supporting Pop on Who Am I. Dora's debut recording also features a bonus track of the title song, penned by Rusty Goodman, in Pop's native language of Romanian.

Join Scott Evans, at 3:00 PM EST, every Saturday and Sunday, from the Southern Gospel Music Forum Radio Program on http://www.tunes4him.com.

For more information on Dora Pop, visit http://www.myspace.com/dorapopmusic . For more information on Southern Gospel Music Forum or Tunes4Him, visit http://www.sgmusicforum.com or http://www.tunes4him.com

Up and Coming Soloist Prepares for New Album

HOMEWOOD, Ill. – Eddie Crook Company and Morning Star Records recording artist Rod Burton is featured on the cover of the May 2008 issue of Gospel Music News. Gospel Music News is one of the leading print magazines dedicated to Southern Gospel Music.

The cover article, titled “Runnin’ In the Light”, features Rod, his music, family life, and more. Readers can head over to Gospel Music News’ webpage (http://www.gospelmusicnews.org) and subscribe to the magazine and read the story.

Rod Burton said, “It’s such a surreal experience to see your own face on the cover of a magazine! Thanks so much to the Bradfords and all the folks at Gospel Music News for featuring my ministry!”

Rod was recently in the studio working on his brand new Morning Star Records release – Walkin’ In the Light. The new album is slated to release later this year. More information on the new album will be released at a later date.

Rod’s latest single, “It’s Wonderful to Know”, has become the singer’s first Top 40 single. The song, which has become a fan favorite, peaked at #35 last month on the SoGospelNews.com Top 40 Weekly Chart.

Rod Burton said, “I am so excited to see how well this song is being received by radio and fans alike. I love performing this song, and it’s exciting to see how it is affecting those who hear it!”

Rod recently reached a sponsorship agreement with iPodJuice (http://www.ipodjuice.com), the leading iPod battery replacement company. Under the terms of agreement, iPod Juice will partner with Rod Burton Music in ministry efforts across the country. Rod will make available and display promotional materials about the services that iPodJuice provides at his ministry and concert events.

iPodJuice is a San Antonio-based company that offers kits allowing people to replace the battery in their iPod in a matter of minutes. They can also replace the battery for customers that would rather outsource the entire job.

More information on iPodJuice can be found at http://www.ipodjuice.com/ipod-mini-battery-replacement-products.htm.

Fans are encouraged to call their local radio station and request Rod’s current single, “It’s Wonderful to Know”.

For more information on Rod Burton – visit http://www.rodburtonmusic.com.

Fans are encouraged to visit Rod’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/rodburtonmusic.com. Rod’s ShoutLife can be found at http://www.shoutlife.com/rodburtonmusic.

About Rod Burton
Rod Burton is one of Southern Gospel’s fastest rising soloists. Described by family and friends as an interesting cross between big city businessman and down-home country boy, Rod is winning over fans all across the country. Rod released his Morning Star Records debut, By His Grace, in the spring of 2007. His current single is “It’s Wonderful to Know.”

STERRETT, Alab. – Wendy Word + forgiven have been making an impact on the Christian Voice Magazine charts with their latest singles “Lowest Time” and “That’s Enough”.

The group’s current single Southern Gospel single, “Lowest Time”, reached #87 on the Christian Voice Magazine’s Southern Gospel Top 100 last month. The song is also charting at #55 on the Gospel Music News Top 100.

Wendy Word said, “I am humbled to know that the song I wrote, ‘Lowest Time’, is touching people’s lives. Everything in that song is based on a true story. The people in that song are as real as you and me, and it touches my heart to know that their story is being heard by people around the world.”

In addition, the husband and wife team’s Christian Country single, “That’s Enough”, reached #4 on the magazine’s Christian Country chart.

“It’s always exciting to see that your music is touching lives,” mentioned Tony Word of Forgiven. “God has been so good to our ministry. Thank you to everyone for listening and playing our music!”

The group’s current Southern Gospel single, “Lowest Time”, was released to radio through Rhonda Thompson Promotions. Fans are encouraged to call their local radio station and request “That’s Enough” and “Lowest Time” at both Southern Gospel and Christian Country radio.

Wendy Word + forgiven are in the beginning stages of recording a new album. More information on that will be released soon.

More information on Wendy Word + forgiven can be found at http://wendywordandforgiven.com.

Fans are encouraged to stop by Wendy Word + forgiven’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/wendywordforgiven/.

About Wendy Word + Forgiven
Wendy Word + Forgiven is a husband and wife team based out of Sterrett, Alabama. Wendy Word, joined by her husband Tony, travels all across the United States ministering the Gospel through their brand of country-tinged Southern Gospel music. The duo’s current release is entitled Heartfelt and features the hit singles “That’s Enough”, “I Just Feel Like Something Good Is About to Happen”, and “Lowest Time”.

NASHVILLE, TN (5-7-08) – Canaan Records is pleased to announce the signing of Mike & Kelly Bowling to an exclusive recording contract. The popular trio is comprised of Mike & Kelly Bowling along with Jeff Snyder. Mike & Kelly are noted for their tight harmonies and powerful song lyrics, which garnered them their first number one song last December for “We Have A Saviour.” Their current single, “Your Cries Have Awoken The Master,” currently holds the number two position on the National Radio Chart. Both songs will be included on the group’s debut project, entitled Faith To Believe, which will be released August 12th by Canaan Records and Word Entertainment.

“My first exposure to Mike and Kelly came by watching them from the balcony as they led a packed auditorium into the presence of the Lord. I became a fan that night and my admiration has only increased the more I have gotten to know them. We are thrilled to welcome them to our Canaan family,” commented Dave Clark, General Manager of Canaan Records.

Mike Bowling added, “When I was a child, all I wanted to do was sing and play Gospel music. Canaan Records was the leading record company and there was nothing I wanted more than to be an artist on their label with all the other greats. I was a member of the Canaan Record Club and I couldn’t wait each month to receive the featured project. Today, a dream came true when Kelly and I signed a recording contract with Canaan. The entire group is extremely excited about the opportunities ahead and being apart of the Canaan family. I can’t explain the joy of working with Dave and everyone at Canaan. Joining together makes the future of Mike & Kelly Bowling even more promising.”

Although formed a little over a year ago, Mike & Kelly Bowling are no strangers to the Christian music world having a long list of accomplishments during their vocal careers. While Mike began singing and playing piano at a very young age, he had a very impressive beginning to his professional career at only 16 years old when he embarked on a two year span singing with the legendary LeFevres. Mike then went on to earn a degree in Respiratory Therapy before returning to the music world. In 1995, he joined the New Hinsons, a perfect blend considering Mike’s vocals are very distinctively similar to those of the late Kenny Hinson. After lending his vocal abilities to several of their high-charting songs, Mike went on to join another successful family group, the Perrys. While with the Perrys, Mike was featured on songs such as "God Sent Angels," “By Faith I Can Touch Him Now" and “Not Even A Stone."

After Mike’s marriage to Kelly, he spent the next six years traveling as a soloist garnering a tremendous amount of success. In fact, he has been noted as the first Southern Gospel soloist to achieve three consecutive number one songs on the Singing News Top 80 charts (“Thank God For The Preacher,” “The Call” and “I Take Him Back”). Kelly spent more than 15 years with her family, The Crabb Family. During that time they were the recipients of three GRAMMY nominations, 11 Dove Awards, 16 number one songs and numerous other accomplishments. Kelly’s unmistakable voice can be heard on the family's hits "Don't You Wanna Go," "Good Day," "Jesus Will Do What You Can't" and "Trail Of Tears." After the birth of the Bowling's third child, Kelly realized it was time to join her husband on stage as Mike & Kelly Bowling. In October 2006, Mike & Kelly added Jeff Snyder of Owensboro, KY. Jeff brings an incredible tenor voice to this exciting trio. He is a graduate of Kentucky BibleCollege with a degree in Theology and Music.

Together, Mike and Kelly have created a sound that is as refreshing as the trio sounds of the early 70s. History will note that they have been true to the excellence of their ability without diminishing or distancing the listener. They have appeared on the Gaither Homecoming series concerts and videos, TBN, during Gospel Music Week, at GMA’s Seminar in the Rockies, presented during Gospel Music’s Dove Awards and performed at numerous other major events.

Canaan Records, a division of Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb company, was founded in 1965. The original Canaan Records' roster was home to many legendary Southern Gospel artists including The Cathedrals, The Happy Goodmans, The Florida Boys, The Inspirations, The Nelons and The Talleys. In early 2007, the renowned label reemerged with the signing of Gospel music greats, The Hoppers. Word Entertainment leads the industry with over 50 years of music making history.

For booking information on Mike & Kelly Bowling, contact The Harper Agency (615-851-4500, http://www.harperagency.com or e-mail: .) For more information on Mike & Kelly, visit http://www.mikeandkellybowling.com . For more information on Canaan Records, log onto http://www.canaanrecords.com .

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Popular Southern Gospel artist The Freemans were awarded their first SGN Music Award last week.

The family group took home the award for Country/Bluegrass Song of the Year for their record-breaking #1 hit – “He Chose Me”. The song was written by Rick Hendrix and Angie Hoskins Aldridge and is found on the critically acclaimed Eyes On the Prize release.

Darrell Freeman of the Freemans said, “We had no expectation of winning anything that night. We just wanted to come and have a good time with our friends. Winning was just a bonus to an overall great night!”

In addition to that win, The Freemans were nominated for three other awards. They were also nominated for Song of the Year (for “He Chose Me”) and Country/Bluegrass Album of the Year (for Eyes On the Prize). Group patriarch, Darrell Freeman, received his first ever nod for Producer of the Year (Artist). Freeman also received an additional individual nomination for producing The Freemans’ recording Eyes On the Prize.

The Freemans also performed at the SGN Music Awards Celebration – opening the program with the award-winning song “He Chose Me.”

“The evening was so wonderful,” mentioned Chris Freeman of the Freemans. “We got to spend time with some of our favorite people in the whole world.”

The SGN Music Awards were handed out last Tuesday evening, April 29, 2008 in Smyrna, Tennessee at the River of Life Church. Additional performers included The Isaacs, Karen Peck & New River, Mike & Kelly Bowling, The Imperials, Gold City, and more.

The nominees for the SGN Music Awards were chosen by the staff of SoGospelNews.com, and winners were chosen by fans of Southern Gospel music and readers of SoGospelNews.com.

Fans are encouraged to be listening for The Freemans’ newest single, “Cast In the Sea”. The song is the follow-up to the group’s #1 hit “He Chose Me” and ministry driven “I Need a Drink.”

The newly designed Freemans website is now up and running. Check out more information on the group’s current website at http://www.the-freemans.com. You can also visit the group’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/thefreemans07.

About The Freemans
The Freemans are one of Southern Gospel’s most celebrated and critically acclaimed groups. History, experience and spiritual wisdom are three attributes that can be used to describe the foundation of the Freeman ministry. Deeply rooted with family, the Freemans’ experience spans 30+ years. Now in their 20th year of ministry, the Freemans still perform at approximately 250 dates a year, and continue to experience tremendous success.

PERRY, Fla. – Southern Gospel family group The Walkers are proud to announce the birth of Billy G. Walker, III to Billy Jr. and Angela Walker.

Billy III was born on March 11, 2008 at 12:28 p.m. The new baby boy weighed 8 pounds and was 21 inches long. He was born at the Women’s Pavilion Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.

Billy Jr. said, “Mother and baby are doing great now! We still appreciate any prayers that you may send up on our behalf with a new baby in our home!”

Additional pictures of the new family will be posted on the new Walkers’ webpage – which will be unveiled in the next few weeks.

About The Walkers
The Walkers are a full-time evangelism team based out of Perry, Florida. The family group is represented by AMG Capitol, MorningStar Records, and Heaven Bound Talent Agency. The group is preparing for the release of their latest recording this summer.

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Southern Spin Entertaintment artists garnered an impressive 16 nominations on the Diamond Awards Top 10 ballot.

“We are so excited that our artists are gaining notoriety among the fans,” mentioned Amy Marie Unthank, administrator of SSE Group, Inc., parent company of Southern Spin Entertainment. “We are so proud of all of our artists and the work they do.”

The Pathfinders earned seven nominations including Trio of the Year, Sunrise Award, Song of the Year (for “I Don’t Sail Alone”), and Album of the Year (for Mercy Answered). In addition, all three members received individual nominations. Dawn McGuire is nodded for Female Vocalist of the Year, and Dearl Lemons is up for Male Vocalist of the Year. Brian Dockins is nominated in the Living Legend category.

Previous Diamond Award winners HisSong received five nominations including Trio of the Year, Song of the Year (“I Still Have It All”), Album of the Year (On the Way Up), and Favorite Artist Website (http://www.hissongmusic.com). In addition, Dennis Humphries is again up for Male Vocalist of the Year.

Two time Diamond Award winners for Duet of the Year, Amazed was again nominated in the category for Duet of the Year as well as Song of the Year (for “Even On Monday”).

Also, the Dove Brothers received a nomination for Song of the Year for their #1 hit and recent award-winning song “I Can Pray”.

SoGospelNews.com earned its fifth consecutive nomination for Favorite Industry Website – an award the popular e-zine won last year.

Fans are encouraged to vote for their favorites in the 2008 SGN Scoops Diamond Awards. The final nominees for the Diamond Awards will come from this Top 10 ballot. The online ballot is designed for fans to vote for their favorite artists for each award.

Visit the Diamond Awards website at http://diamondawardsonline.com to place your vote. The deadline for voting is May 17, 2008.

For more information on Southern Spin artists, visit http://www.southernspin.com.

About SSE Group, Inc.
SSE Group, Inc. is a 501c non-profit organization dedicated to assisting independent artists in Gospel music. SSE Group, Inc. operated by Amy Marie Unthank and Chris D. Unthank. The company has three divisions currently: Southern Spin Entertainment (a publicity and marketing firm), Southern Spin Radio (online radio station), and SSE Design Group (web design and publishing).

SSE Group, Inc. currently administrates Glorious Creations, SGBlogNews.com, and TheBridgeLive.net.

Artists and organizations currently working with SSE Group, Inc. include the Dove Brothers Quartet, the Freemans, The Webbs (formerly the Rick Webb Trio, Geron Davis & Kindred Souls, SoGospelNews.com, Johnny Minick, The Imperials, Stamps-Baxter School of Music, Misty Freeman, HisSong, the Prophets Quartet, myTeamABC, Sondra Burnett, Sunday Edition, Sharron Kay King, Aaron Minick, Eighth Day, Riverbend Media, The Glovers, and many more.

For more information on SSE Group, go to http://ssegrouponline.com .

This weekend … you’ll have four opportunities to join XM Radio’s Dan Dixon for an in-depth conversation with Doyle Lawson, as they talk about Doyle’s faith and his group’s music … and listen to some of the great Bluegrass-style Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver Gospel music.

The four broadcast times are … Friday 5/9 at 7 PM ET, Saturday 5/10 at 5 PM ET, Monday 5/12 at Noon ET and again Monday evening at 10 PM ET … and can be heard throughout North America on enLighten XM 34 and DirecTV Channel 828.
Information on all of enLighten’s special programming can be found at http://www.enLighten34.com.

SGM FanFair Heads To The Great Smoky Mountains

Kennedy, AL - Today, the SGM FanFair Board of Directors announced the relocation of SGM FanFair from Chattanooga to Pigeon Forge, TN.

"The first four years in Chattanooga were great, but we felt it was time for a change," comments board member Dale Burress. "The vote for Pigeon Forge was unanimous among the board of directors, and city officials have welcomed the event with great enthusiasm."

Executive Director Randall Wilds states, "Offering a huge variety of shops, restaurants, museums, amusement parks, entertainment and the beauty of the smoky mountains, Pigeon Forge has long been a family favorite vacation hot spot. With SGM FanFair added to the city's spring events, folks have one more reason to visit and enjoy Pigeon Forge."

The 5th annual SGM FanFair will be held March 16 - 21, 2009 at the Smoky Mountain Convention Center which includes on-site parking - another added improvement for the 2009 event.

The Ramada Inn - official host hotel of the 5th Annual SGM FanFair - is conveniently located on the grounds adjacent to the Smoky Mountain Convention Center, and offers spacious, comfortable accommodations and amenities at affordable, discounted rates.

One of the largest of it's kind, this annual concert event features performances by a huge roster of artists - from quartets to soloists. Thousands of southern gospel music fans and enthusiasts will gather for six days of the finest in southern gospel music, fellowship and family fun.

For more information, visit http://www.sgmfanfair.com or call 205-662-4826.

The artists formerly known as The Praisemasters have reorganized under the new name MasterPraise. Group members are Ron and Angela Epley, the husband and wife team who originally formed the Praisemasters, and longtime friend Keith Cantrell. Each member of MasterPraise has been involved in gospel music for many years and has been associated with many regional groups. MasterPraise is an outreach ministry of Bethel Baptist Church in Shelby, NC.

According to their pastor, Dr. Tim Sims, “It is my privilege to introduce you to the Southern Gospel trio, MasterPraise. It is my belief that MasterPraise will bless you as they exalt the Savior, encourage the saints, and evangelize the sinner with Christ honoring music. Ron, Angela, and Keith will bless the hearts of their listeners as they pour themselves into a worship setting that lifts high above all, the name of Jesus.”

Group member Keith Cantrell states that they have already been overwhelmed by the response to this ministry. God is truly blessing and providing at every turn. Check their website at http://www.masterpraise.com for a listing of dates and make plans to hear this exciting new group.

Arden, NC - Pinnacle Records was the original home for such artists as Karen Peck & New River, Teddy Huffam & The Gems and Anthony Burger and was the company’s launch pad for bringing The Kingsmen and The McKameys together on Horizon Records back in 1992.

“This label garnered much respect in years past and we wanted to re-introduce this label for promising new independent artists that we want to bring in to the Crossroads family,” states Crossroads co-owner and producer Jeff Collins.

The Bledsoes, a family group from Dobson, North Carolina will be the premier artist for Pinnacle Records and have just completed a new recording titled The Journey. “We are so blessed to be a partnered with Pinnacle Records, and all of the Crossroads family has made us feel so welcome,” states group manager Rodney Bledsoe. “We are excited to see what the Lord does next!”

The new single “This Valley You’re In”, penned by Rodney Bledsoe will be on the June 2008 Crossroads Airplay Sampler and at radio stations soon.

For more information about becoming a part of the Pinnacle family, contact Jeff Collins at 828-684-3066.

Tickets On Sale Today, May 7

Gatlinburg, TN - The exciting sounds of Southern Gospel Music will ring loudly Labor Day Weekend, August 29-31 in the Great Smoky Mountains of Gatlinburg, TN. Dozens of Southern Gospel Music's most popular artists come to will be featured at the Annual Gatlinburg Gathering at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. This exciting three-day event features nightly concerts with many of Southern Gospel Music's most popular names, including Gold City, The Hoppers, Ivan Parker, The Perrys, Brian Free & Assurance, The Greenes, The Talley Trio, The Pfeifers, The Booth Brothers, Karen Peck & New River, The Triumphant Quartet, Kirk Talley and many others. In fact, nearly two dozen popular Southern Gospel Music recording artists will be featured throughout the event. In addition to the evening concerts, special bonus Showcase events will be held on Saturday and Sunday.

The Annual Gatlinburg Gathering promises to be one to remember. Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased by call 1-888-238-6858. Special artist circle seating is available, as well as reserved and general admission seating. Complete information may be obtained on-line at http://www.abrahamproductions.com .

This event will be one the entire family will enjoy. Join many of Southern Gospel Music's most popular recording artists at the Gatlinburg Convention Center on August 29-31, as the Annual Gatlinburg Gathering returns to Gatlinburg, TN.

Nashville-based Ernie Couch & Revival has reached an international distribution agreement with Whole World Media Group. EC&R's manager and group member, Jason Couch, said, "this is a major milestone not only for our group, but for the gospel music industry in general. It is common knowledge, that historically, the internationally distribution of gospel music has been somewhat limited, and we are delighted to find ourselves on the cutting-edge of the growing global market for gospel music."

Jeff McKenzie, CEO of Whole World Media Group stated that EC&R's music will initially be manufactured and distributed in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, England, Ireland, across Europe, with on-going negotiations in Taiwan and Malaysia. Visit EC&R's website at http://www.erniecouchandrevival.com to learn more.

Murfreesboro, TN – May 7, 2008 – InnerFire, a new Southern Gospel mixed trio based out of Murfreesboro, TN, is announcing that their debut, self-titled album produced by Dove award-winning producer, Kevin Ward, will be distributed through CDBaby.com to iTunes and other various online retailers.

It is be expected to be available at individual retailers’ sites at the end of May, but until then, the songs will be available for purchase on their page hosted by CDBaby.com at http://cdbaby.com/cd/innerfire . They can also be purchased from their website at http://www.innerfiremusic.com and booking requests can be sent to .

The album provides a variety of musical styles that will appeal to broad range of listeners and is well suited for the goals of their ministry, which is to urge believers and non-believers to a new and deeper walk with Jesus Christ.

Marshall Pugh, owner/baritone of the Monument Qt., is pleased to welcome two new vocal members to the group. Daryl Williams who had been filling in as the pianist in the Monument band this winter has accepted the lead position full time and Jerry Pilgrim as accepted the bass position full time. We are also pleased to announce the addition of Cody McVey as the new pianist for the Monument band. All those mentioned above along with Matt Felts,tenor, Jeremy Warren
- drummer, Zac Kubilus - bassist, Wayne Rinker - utility string player and Brian Ledford - Sound Engineer, invite you to check out
their schedule at http://WWW.MONUMENTQT.COM

The Beene Family, from Kingsport, TN, who recently celebrated a decade in their music ministry, announced today a plan to reorganize their tour schedule to include a significant cutback.

Brothers, Shandon, Landon and Brandon Beene and Brandon’s wife Chrysta Beene have spent the last ten years establishing themselves in the Southern Gospel Music field by singing an approximate 175 concert dates a year. The majority of their schedule has focused largely on the church market across the country and heavily on the West Coast.

The revised tour schedule is effective July 1st, 2008, and will limit the talented and well-respected family to a maximum of 100 concert dates a year. Seventy five percent of those dates will be dedicated to current and past relationships with church and concert promoters while twenty five percent of the dates will remain available to accommodate future growth.

Landon Beene, who also owns and operates Tribute Media Source, states, “We live in a new modern era, with new economic challenges, and a renewed need for healthy leaders on the church platform. Our focus for the future is to continue to maximize the growth of our music, the focus of our ministry and protect the health of our family life. The reorganization of our tour schedule has been in the planning stages for over a year, and we hope will promote the longevity of the Beene Family well into tomorrow. This is the future of our genre of music.”

For scheduling information call Michael Davis of The Dominion Agency at (910) 484-6996. ; http://www.thebeenefamily.com

The Fourth Man Quartet of Orlando Florida won ‘First Place’ in the 4th Annual ‘SGM FanFair Talent Search’ in Chattanooga Tennessee on April 5, 2008! This was the group’s second ‘First Place’ finish this year having also won at the ‘South Georgia Gospel Sing-Out & Talent Search’ in Fitzgerald, Georgia an event hosted by Bill Bailey Concerts on January 20, 2008!

The ‘SGM FanFair’ began on Monday the 31st of March and ended on the day of the ‘Talent Search’. The event featured morning worship services, afternoon matinees, daily showcases, and evening concerts each day with two special events, the ‘SGM FanFair Fan Awards on Thursday night and the ‘Talent Search’ on Saturday afternoon.

Nearly 100 of Southern Gospel’s finest to include, The Nelons, The Dixie Melody Boys, Karen Peck and New River, The Dixie Echoes, and The Freemans performed during the evening concerts The Fourth Man Quartet was blessed to be able to share the stage with these great artists and perform as part of the Saturday evening concert.

The Fourth Man Quartet originally began less than two years ago as a small men’s ensemble at their local church, Calvary Assembly of Orlando. The four men of the quartet sensed God’s call into ministry outside the walls of their church. God is using The Fourth Man to reach out with the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ in jails, prisons, half-way houses, and churches in Central Florida and beyond. The varied styles in their repertoire appeal to mixed audiences.

The Fourth Man Quartet has their first CD project completed, released, and available now. They are currently available for bookings and can be contacted by phone at: (321) 283-4514 or email at:

Melissa Jo Elliott's debut CD titled “I Know How To Fly” has just released. This CD was Recorded at Daywind & Hilltop Studios in Nashville Tennessee. Her CD is a wonderful mix of Southern Gospel and Country Gospel music sure to please listeners of all ages. Featured songs are “I Know How To Fly”, “He's A Sure Thing” and “Help Is On The Way”.

“This CD has been in my heart for many years. I just needed faith to act on my passion. The song “I Know How To Fly” really speaks volumes as to where I am in my walk with God. I feel that the songwriters, Gina Vera & Sue C. Smith penned that especially for me, with divine inspiration of course. I wanted this CD to have a good mix of slow and fast tempo songs, and I feel that that was achieved."

Melissa's CD is available for pre-order on her website at http://www.melissajoelliott.com

BLADENBORO, N.C. – The Dove Brothers were honored with three SGN Music Awards last week. The popular quartet took home two of the three biggest awards of the evening – Song of the Year (for the #1 song “I Can Pray”) and 2008 Pacesetter which honors artists, individuals, companies, etc. that raise the standard in the industry in some way. In addition, the Dove Brothers were awarded Traditional Southern Song of the Year (also for “I Can Pray”).

“We have to say a big ‘Thank You’ not only to SoGospelNews.com for nominating us but also to our fans for showing up and voting for us,” mentioned McCray Dove of the Dove Brothers. “This just confirms that God had mighty big plans for the song ‘I Can Pray’. We are honored to be a part of it.”

Due to a hectic touring schedule last month, the Dove Brothers were unable to attend the awards celebration last week, which took place on Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at River of Life Church in Smyrna, Tennessee. However, the Dove Brothers taped their acceptance speeches, and those videos were shown at the awards program.

Deon Unthank, administrator for SoGospelNews.com said, “I think these awards are just a testament to the fact that the Dove Brothers have been on the right path the last couple of years. They are getting it right, and the fans are showing their support.”

In addition to winning those three awards, the Dove Brothers were also nominated for another five awards this year – including Male Group of the Year, Best Live Performer, and Fan Favorite Artist of the Year. Jerry Martin was nominated for Male Vocalist of the Year, and Jerry Kelso received a nod for Musician of the Year as well. The group tied with the Booth Brothers as the most nominated artist in the SGN Music Awards this year.

These three awards come on the heals of the Dove Brothers’ win as Favorite Male Quartet at the 2008 SGM FanFair Awards earlier in April. The group was also one of the featured honorees at the 2008 Harmony Honors which took place earlier in the month as well.

The Dove Brothers have continued their winning streak at Southern Gospel with their new single, “You Don’t Know God’s Love.” “You Don’t Know God’s Love” is the debut single from the group’s highly anticipated new recording, Life. The song is re-working of the Ronnie Milsap country favorite “You Don’t Know My Love” with a Gospel twist.

“You Don’t Know God’s Love” follows in the footsteps of the group’s last two singles – both of which reached the #1 position. “I’m Gonna Make It” spent 8 weeks at #1 on the SoGospelNews.com Top 40 Weekly Chart and reached #1 on Gospel Music News Top 100. “I Can Pray” went #1 in every national chart, and it became the #1 Song of 2007 according to Singing News Magazine. The Dove Brothers were also named the most played artist of 2007 in Southern Gospel radio by SoGospelNews.com.

More information on the Dove Brothers can be found at http://dovebrothersquartet.com

About the Dove Brothers
Voted Favorite Male Quartet of The Year by the Southern Gospel Music Association and the Singing News Fan Awards, the Dove Brothers’ high energy presentation and progressive arrangements reflect a tangible link to the good old days of gospel music. Their peers regard them as a class act representing the industry with dignity and respect. Their latest recording for Sonlite Records is entitled Never the Same and spawned off the #1 hits “I Can Pray” and “I’m Gonna Make It”.

Owensboro, KY - The Childress Family of Madisonville, KY will be featured at Gospel on the River, a part of Owensboro's Friday After 5, on Friday, May 23.

Friday After 5 is a 16-week series of free outdoor concerts held on the Owensboro riverfront. Created in 1996, this summer-long festival includes live music of several different genres, interactive family events and other entertainment. The gospel performances will be held inside Cannon Hall at the RiverPark Center and will begin at 7:00 p.m. Central time. Additional gospel artists performing throughout the series include The Crossmen, Blackwood Gospel Quartet, The Conquerors Quartet, His Praise and The Southlanders.

For more information, visit their website, http://www.childressfamily.com

Nashville, TN - Multi-talented RSI/Spring Hill Music recording artist, Gordon Mote will be featured on the Southern Styles Show, which will air in syndication throughout the US and Canada during the week of May 7 through 13. Listeners can tune also to the special interview segment, conducted by Rob Patz, on Saturday, May 10 at 5pm (Eastern time) by visiting http://www.sgmradio.com and clicking on the Southern Gospel icon underneath the microphone. The interview segment will also feature Mote’s current Top 10 release, Mercy Walked In.

Rob Patz has hosted the Southern Styles Show since 1993. To obtain complete information about the Southern Styles Show, visit http://www.southernstylesshow.com .

For further information regarding Gordon Mote, visit http://www.rsimusicgroup.com or http://www.gordonmote.com

GospelOK "Heir Wave" Radio, is a brand new Internet Southern Gospel Station based in Yukon, Oklahoma and will be serving the Mid-west and points beyond
featuring Quality and First-Class "Independent" Artists from around the Country as well as from Canada. Major Artists will also be featured from time to time,
but primarily the focus will be spotlighting the "Independent" Gospel Artists.

"Heir Wave" Radio officially came online Saturday May 3, 2008 and is in full power 24/7 with State of The Art Streaming capabilities and one of "premier" quality broadcasting!.

Daniel Graves owner of GospelOk and Tommy D. Mayos' Southern Gospel Outreach of Clarksville, Texas have combined their seperate Ministries to bring "Heir Wave" Radio to a reality. Both have years of experience in Southern and Country Gospel broadcasting and look forward to presenting and bringing the "Independent" Artists to the forefront to gospel fans and listeners nationwide and around the world!

The website for GospelOk is http://www.gospelok.com and Tommy D. Mayo's Southern Gospel Outreach is http://www.southerngospeloutreach.com

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Southern Gospel/Christian country band the Dave Williford Band are sponsoring a giveaway supporting the group’s brand new single – “American Christian.”

The up and coming band is giving away a Sansa MP3 player with 1GB of space available on the player. In addition, the group’s currently untitled sophomore release will be preloaded on the player.

Dave Williford said, “We wanted to do something that would get fans excited about our new single, ‘American Christian’. We are super excited about the song and this giveaway.”

To register for the giveaway, fans are encouraged to visit the Dave Williford Band website and say a little something about the group’s new single.

“American Christian” was released to Southern Gospel radio last week through Radio Active Airplay. “American Christian” is the second single from the Dave Williford Band’s latest recording, A King’s Ransom. The song was written by Dave Williford. The new single is the follow-up to the group’s debut single, “Forgiven”.

Radio stations interested in downloading the single from the Dave Williford Band can register at RadioActiveAirplay.com.

The Dave Williford Band was recently in the studio recording tracks for their upcoming new release. Tracks for the band’s currently untitled sophomore project were recorded at SoundTrack Studio in Jefferson City, Missouri. The new album will again feature original music from the pen of Dave Williford as well as some praise songs in the Dave Williford Band brand of country. The new album will also be available for digital download on various sites such as iTunes like the group’s previous release – A King’s Ransom.

Pastors, promoters, and individuals interested in booking the David Williford Band, call (573) 644-4939.

To find out more information on the band and their recording, tour dates, etc., visit http://www.davewillifordband. You can also visit the band’s ShoutLife at http://www.shoutlife.com/davewillifordband.

About the Dave Williford Band
The Dave Wiliford band is based out of Jefferson City, Missouri and tour extensively throughout the Mid-West. The group is fronted by singer/songwriter Dave Williford. The Dave Williford Band is a fun, on fire for God Southern Gospel/christian country band with a des