The Kingdom Heirs announce upcoming album, "No Better Time"

2023 was a year of change for The Kingdom Heirs,” Dollywood’s resident Southern Gospel group observe at the start of the liner notes to No Better Time, their upcoming album for Sonlite Records, now available for pre-save/add ahead of its November 1 release. What follows proves that they’re masters, not just of legendary singing, but of understatement.  “In our 40-plus years of ministry, we had never seen anything quite like it. Within a six-month span, we replaced three out of four of our front-line vocals and added a guitar player/vocalist. This project is nothing short of a miracle from God along with help and encouragement from so many people!”

Indeed, though the turnover has been substantial since last year’s collection of genre classics, Something Good, Vol. 3, the release of three singles in advance of the full project reassured longtime and recent fans alike that the Kingdom Heirs sound and spirit were as strong as ever. From the classic, jaunty opening piano of the “The Lord’s Been Good to Me” to the more contemporary flavor of the closing “Yesterday, Today, Forever Faithful,” No Better Time offers up a rounded portrait of multi-dimensional artistry placed in the service of the Gospel.

Yet while a string section makes appearances on radio favorite “Until Prayer Changes Me” and the meditative “Already Free,” and horns enliven the title track, country flavors, soulful harmonies and traditional touches predominate on numbers such as the up-tempo “All The Way To The Gates,” recent single “I Want To Live Like Jesus,” the gently syncopated “We’ll Be Moving” and focus track “I Went Down.”  And though there are somber moments in the empathetic “Life Hurts, God Heals” and “He Still Is,” with its aching tenor lead vocal, most of No Better Time’s themes are perfectly summed up in the chorus of its title track:

“This album is something every member of our group should be very proud of,” the liner notes affirm. “Each guy was involved in every aspect of the finished product. There also would not be a ‘finished product’ if not for all the songwriters who submitted material that took a considerable amount of time to process. There were so many great songs, and we feel that we chose the best of the best. Thank you, songwriters, for your talent and commitment to keep sharing words that change people’s lives!

“Last but certainly not least, THANK YOU to our family and friends, who not only support what we do, but more importantly, you BELIEVE in what we do! Without each one of you who are sitting in our audience on a daily basis or sitting at home praying for us daily, this ministry would be nothing more than a bunch of guys playing music! We love you and thank you…YOU make this possible!!”

The Freemans' New Album 'Unbroken' Available Sept. 26th

The Freemans' upcoming album Unbroken, set for release on September 26th, showcases their signature blend of country-gospel music with five brand-new songs and four fan-favorite classics.  The lead single off the album is a dynamic rendition of Zach Williams' “Big Tent Revival,” which made its debut on The Gospel Greats on August 4th and is currently featured on SiriusXM's Bill Gaither ENLighten channel and Pandora’s Southern Gospel station. A visually compelling concept music video for "Big Tent Revival" is set to follow soon.

The album also includes "I'm Going to Make It," a powerful ballad of hope featuring Chris Freeman and penned by Gerald Crabb, along with "The Ladder" featuring Darrell Freeman on lead vocals, written by Ronny Hinson. Other new tracks such as "Walk My Way" and "We've Gotta Let Our Light Shine" were written by AJ and West Cleave Clark, adding depth to the project.

Listeners can also enjoy previously released tracks like "I've Just Started Living" (1987), "The Lighthouse" (2001), "He’d Have to Walk Through The Blood" (2001), and "Eyes On The Prize" (2007).

Produced by Darrell and Caylon Freeman, with vocal production by Dony McGuire and Mike Sykes, the album was recorded at Hilltop Studios, engineered by John Nicholson. Vocal edits were done by Mark Forester at Moonlight Music Productions, and it was mixed by Scott Williamson and Jeremy Metcalf. Unbroken is a testament to The Freemans' enduring artistry and their passion for spreading faith through music.

For more information, visit The Freemans' website and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and BandsInTown.  Stream their music on Apple Music, Amazon Music, Pandora, and Spotify

Management Consultant / Media Contact:

Michelle Goble / michelle@esqartistmgmt.com

(818) 636-2566

 

The Kingsmen Release Second Treasured Classic, “The Judgement”

“When Thomas Nalley joined The Kingsmen as tenor vocalist in October 2022, I was well aware of his master abilities with a ballad,” enthuses the legendary Southern Gospel quartet’s baritone, Alan Kendall. “He has no doubt continued living up to that reputation, with ‘Unstoppable God’ reaching #1 this past May. I knew that ‘The Judgement’ was right in his wheelhouse. Night after night, he has made this former #1 his own.”

Like their previous single for Horizon Records, “The Judgement” is a new version of a treasured favorite from The Kingsmen’s songbook, recorded for a forthcoming volume of their successful Decades compilations — and, like “Saints Will Rise,” so strong a remake that the quartet easily decided that fans need not await the full project release to enjoy it on their favorite streaming platforms.

From ominous opening piano chords that foreshadow the lyric’s depiction of a judgment of sinners and Satan himself to the majestically orchestrated closing that affirms God’s infinite power, this new reading of “The Judgement” not only reminds long-time followers of The Kingsmen of the glory of the original, but reassures old and new fans alike that The Kingsmen have the talent and spirit to maintain their place among the genre’s most beloved artists.

“‘The Judgement’ hasn’t been released in its entirety in nearly a quarter-century,” notes Kendall, “and we’re thrilled that we finally have this anointed song re-recorded by the present day Kingsmen and available for everyone to hear and enjoy!”

“The Judgement” is streaming in Dolby Atmos spatial audio on Apple Music, Amazon Music, and TIDAL.

THE GRIFFINS WELCOME THREE NEW MEMBERS

The Griffins, known for their soul-stirring Southern Gospel Music, are pleased to announce the addition of not one, not two, but three exceptional individuals to their musical family. These talented artists bring a wealth of experience and unwavering commitment to their new roles within the ministry.

Brian Scott from Johnson City, TN, assumes the pivotal position of lead/baritone vocalist. He is also an accomplished pianist. Beyond his artistic talents, Brian is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Mental Health Service Provider. His private practice, deeply rooted in Christian principles, reflects his unwavering faith and dedication to holistic healing.

Tim Griffin remarks, “With steadfast patience, Angela and I have diligently sought the ideal candidate to assume the lead position of The Griffins. This quest has spanned slightly over a year. During a recent exchange with an industry colleague, Angela received an unexpected mention of Brian—a name that resonated with both of us. We recognized Brian’s potential as a perfect addition to our ministry. Little did we realize that this encounter would not only fill the lead position but bless us with two additional members.” 

Theresa Bellamy hailing from Kingsport, TN, will become the fourth vocalist of The Griffins. She brings a wealth of expertise. As the esteemed owner and operator of “Theresa’s Studio for Vocal Performance,” she has honed her craft and guided countless aspiring artists. Her addition promises to infuse the group with a new dimension of vocal excellence, captivating audiences with every note.

Josh Smith based in Elizabethton, TN, a consummate professional, steps into dual roles within the ministry. As the sound engineer, he ensures impeccable audio quality during performances—a critical task that often goes unnoticed but profoundly impacts the audience’s experience. Additionally, Josh takes the wheel as the group’s bus driver, navigating their journey with precision and care. His strong work ethic and collaborative spirit make him an invaluable asset.

Tim and Angela, the visionary founders of The Griffins, along with Teresa Woodrum express their profound gratitude for the growth God has bestowed upon the ministry. The serendipitous connection that led them to Brian, and subsequently to Theresa and Josh, underscores the divine orchestration at play. 

For an in-depth look into the ministry of The Griffins, latest news and tour dates, follow them on social media or visit their website at thegriffinsonline.com.                             

Angela G. Griffin

864-580-3686

griffintrio@gmail.com

TRIBUTE QUARTET ANNOUNCES NEW TOUR TO DEBUT IN 2025

Popular Daywind recording artist, The Tribute Quartet has announced plans for an exciting tour in 2025 that will feature a select number of unprecedented concert events to be scheduled nationwide. The Tour will exclusively feature songs from the Quartet’s Quartet Tribute recording series, which to date has spawned two Number One hits, with Volume 3 of the series garnering a Gospel Music Association Dove Award nomination for Southern Gospel Album of the Year.

Each concert event will allow listeners to take a stroll through Gospel Music history with the Tribute Quartet, much like the group’s Quartet Tribute recording Series does. Three volumes of the Series have been released, including the upcoming re-release of Volume One with the current group line-up. The Series has garnered rave reviews from long-time Gospel Music fans, as well as individuals who are simply intrigued by the rich history of this classic musical genre.

The idea for the Series was birthed from producer Gerald Wolfe and Tribute Quartet members who each possess a deep love for the music they grew up listening to as young boys. “I am such a fan of these songs and the singers who originally recorded them,” states long-time group member, Josh Singletary. “To be able to create a tour presenting them to this generation of listeners and to those who hail from that generation as well, thrills me.”

Singletary states that each night on the upcoming Tour will be one Gospel Music fans will not want to miss. “In addition to performing these timeless classics, we will be sharing archival video that transports audiences to a wonderful place. I was overcome with nostalgia as we were selecting specific footage to use for this Tour,” Singletary says.

“Nostalgia is such a precious and powerful feeling,” fellow Tribute member Ian Owens states. “So much of what was once old is new and exciting again today because of the fond memories of experiences from our younger years. I grew up singing the hymns of the church and listening to the great male quartets of the past sing those ever so special and impactful Gospel songs like only they could. I was a fan long before I was a singer. I can’t wait to present these great old songs of the church and quartets of yesteryear with the same excitement, approach, professionalism, excellence and love they were presented with so long ago. It’s going to be a wonderfully powerful celebration of the music that has changed so many lives.”

“My dad always used to say, ‘You can’t know where you’re going if you don’t know where you’ve been.’ This tour give us a chance to share this incredible heritage with our friends,” Tribute member, Gus Gaches states.

Tribute Quartet lead vocalist and manager, Gary Casto shares the excitement of his fellow group members. “We are absolutely thrilled to present this Tour,” Casto shares. “Night after night, we’re approached by folks with so many requests to sing the classics, so we’re so happy we are able to create a tour consisting of evenings full of songs strictly from our Quartet Tribute Series. It’s going to be a special evening, and we believe fans and promoters alike will embrace the opportunity to be a part of this event.”

Promoters interested in scheduling the Quartet Tribute Tour may contact The Harper Agency at 615-851-4500. Fans can keep track of the Tour schedule by visiting www.tributequartet.com.

Sound Street’s "Good Seed" brings the spirit of unshakeable faith — and an abundance of talent

“I have worked with Sound Streets since they began singing,” said esteemed Southern Gospel artist and producer Roger Talley when the trio was signed to Sonlite Records at the end of 2023. “Jarrod Vanderslice and Ryan Bilby have always been great singers and talented communicators. Jaylie inherited the natural, God-given musical talent and is now taking an important role center stage with Sound Street.”The truth of Talley’s observations was borne out quickly enough with the release of Sound Street’s first single, “Mansions,” at the beginning of the year, but the release of their debut album for the label drives home the point in an unmistakable way. Infused with the energy of youth, the spirit of unshakeable faith and an abundance of talent, brought to life in settings molded by Talley’s signature blend of creative innovation and mastery of tradition, Good Seed — out now— reveals a group that has seized the opportunity to bring their music and its message to an ever-widening audience.

“In Mark Chapter 4,” recalls Jarrod Vanderslice, “Jesus shares a powerful parable about a farmer who sowed seeds into his field. By leaving the seeds to grow in their own time, the parable illustrates the strength of the Gospel ‘seed.’ It reminds us that although we may not see immediate results, the Gospel will bear fruit at the right time. Our new project, Good Seed, embodies this message. Each song in this project represents a small yet powerful seed. Wherever you are today, these songs will take root and grow, offering you encouragement and the reminder that God’s goodness will ultimately lead to a fruitful and fulfilling life in His perfect timing.”

Watch Sound Street’s music video for “Mansions.”

Indeed, each of Good Seed’s dozen songs have been carefully shaped — first by their songwriters, a group that includes multiple contributions from Adina Bowman, Rebecca J. Peck and Tony Wood, as well as familiar names like Matthew Westand Joseph Habedank, then by Talley and the members of Sound Street — with an arrangement and a performance that underlines its unique yet universal outlook. Whether it’s the soaring majesty of the stately opener, “Mountains Will Fall,” which features Jarrod Vanderslice’s convincing vocal, the excitingly modern touches that frame Jaylie Vanderslice’s confident-beyond-her-years lead on their top 20 lead-off single, “Mansions,” the quiet warmth of “Looking Up” or the rootsy, acoustic flavor and trio focus of the closing meditation, “The One Who Is Unworthy,” Good Seedis a collection that elegantly matches music to message to create a powerful artistic and spiritual listening experience.

“I thoroughly enjoyed working on this new project by Sound Street,” says Talley. “It has one of the strongest collections of new songs that I have been privileged to produce. They are very wise and seasoned for their time as a new artist and have chosen some incredible songs to showcase on this project. I can’t wait for you to hear the vocal stylings of young Jaylie Vanderslice, the exciting and heartfelt interpretations from her dad Jarrod, and the powerful delivery of baritone Ryan Bilby. Their vocal performances are exceptional, and I know you are going to enjoy this whole project!”

The Nelons Highly Anticipated “ Loving You” Is Out Now!

The highly anticipated project, Loving You, which The Nelons have declared as their best work yet, releases today. The release of the project was uncertain following the tragic passing of Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, their daughter Amber, son-in law Nathan Kistler, their assistant Melodi Hodges, and the pilot Larry Haynie and his wife Melissa in Wyoming while en route to perform on the Gaither Family Cruise earlier this summer. However, after much consideration, surviving member Autumn Nelon Streetman, the youngest member of The Nelons’, felt it appropriate to honor the family’s legacy by releasing the project on its original release date. Loving You, features the award winning and Hall of Fame group’s unmatched musical talent and unbounding faith. 

The project carries an added layer of significance with each song on Loving You serving as a tribute to their life mission of spreading the gospel. Tracks such as, “Hands of an Unseen God,” “We’ve Always Had A Song” and “Moses” reflect the group’s unique ability to minister faith in the midst of pain while rejoicing in the power of divine intervention. Additionally, songs, such as the title track, “Loving You” and “That’s What Love Is” offers a simple yet needed reminder that love never fails. The ten-track album, an unapologetic celebration of The Nelons musical integrity and unwavering commitment to their faith, brings together a collection of timeless songs that will continue to inspire for generations to come.

“I had no idea how big an impact this album would have on my life, especially what I’m walking through,” says Autumn Nelon Streetman. “There is a song on this album called, “Hand of an Unseen God,” and the lyrics say, ‘In my weeping and rejoicing, When my world is good or when it falls apart, I’m held by the hand of an unseen God’ and I had no idea I would be walking through those lyrics right now.”

Ed Leonard, president of Daywind Records stated, “Kelly, Amber, and Jason were immensely proud of this recording produced by Jason, Gordon Mote, Wayne Haun, and Bill Gaither, and featuring their friends Joseph Habedank, N.T. Martin, and the Gaither Vocal Band. Please let it minister to you as it has to us as we face the loss of these amazingly talented people who lived what they sang about every day.”

Dusty Wells, director of artist & label relations at Daywind continued by saying, “Loving You is more than just a music project; it’s a testament to The Nelon’s’ enduring legacy and anointed artistry. From the moment we began working on this album at Daywind Records, I knew it was something special. Jason, Kelly, Amber, Autumn and our team looked for and listened to countless songs before narrowing it down to songs that we felt would minister in a very special way. This project captures the heart and soul of who The Nelons are, not just as artists, but as people who have spent their lives pouring love into their music and their audience. Who knew that this project would be the last recording that they would bring to us. The project is a musical tapestry of hope, strength, peace and love and I know without a shadow of a doubt, it will help countless others on their own journey. Yes, we will certainly miss Jason, Kelly, and Amber, but the music will live on…after all, they will always have a song. This is undoubtedly one of their best works yet, and its impact will resonate for generations, leaving an indelible mark on their legacy.”

Track Listing:

1. That’s What Love Is

2. Loving You

3. There’s A Hole in the Heart

4. He Looked Beyond My Faults

5. Moses

6. God Won’t

7. River of Peace

8. Hand of an Unseen God

9. Three Nails Instead

10. We’ve Always Had A Song

Russ Taff "Tear This Building Down"

Russ Taff is one of the most dynamic vocalists of all time in any musical genre. Multiple GRAMMY and GMA Dove Award winning. Three time Gospel Music Hall of Famer. With his best work in decades - helmed by industry vets Steve Taylor (Sixpence None the Richer and Chevelle) and John Mark Painter (Brandi Carlile, John Mayer, Ben Folds). See the attached bio for the full story on this brilliant new project releasing later this year - "Cover Story." Russ' recent YouTube one hour plus interview has had over 440,000 views in two months. And check out the Kickstarter campaign here! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/notdead/russ-taffs-extraordinary-new-album-cover-story

Mainstream Contact: Stephen Prendergast - russtafflicensing

Christian & Gospel Contact: Chris Hauser - hauserpromotions@comcast.net

THE TRUTHSEEKERS HOMECOMING RETURNS TO THREE NIGHTS FOR 40TH ANNIVERSARY

THE TRUTHSEEKERS HOMECOMING RETURNS TO THREE NIGHTS FOR 40TH ANNIVERSARY

The Truthseekers Homecoming is thrilled to announce their annual event will be returning to three nights in 2025 in celebration of their 40th Anniversary. Hosted in Marion, Illinois at the historic Marion Cultural and Civic Center, this event has been a mainstay in the Midwest as a premier weekend for Gospel music.

The Truthseekers Homecoming will celebrate its 40th Anniversary in March. As part of the celebration, the event will return to three nights. After the pandemic, The Truthseekers Homecoming scaled back to a two-night event. Since then, attendees have requested a return to the original format. Jill Snider, the event’s promoter shares, “There’s no better time to go back to three nights than to do it in the year we recognize and honor four decades of God’s faithfulness and blessing.”   

The event will take place March 20-22, 2025 at the Marion Cultural and Civic Center in downtown Marion, Illinois. On Thursday night, attendees will enjoy an evening with the Tribute Quartet and the Mylon Hayes Family. Friday night features the Guardians and Jonathan Wilburn and Saturday night is none other than Greater Vision and the Mark Trammell Quartet.

Tickets will go on sale later in the year. To keep up with the latest from the Truthseekers Homecoming, follow them on their Facebook page.

Chronicle tracks new music with producer Wayne Haun

Chronicle is thrilled to announce the development of their forthcoming album, with Wayne Haun at the helm of production. Haun is a multi-award-winning music producer, songwriter, and arranger, primarily known for his work in Christian music. Haun has received numerous Dove Awards and Grammy nominations throughout his career. 

Chronicle’s first music tracking session yielded two singles, featuring the talents of Gordon Mote, Scott Williamson, Joel Key, Jacob Lowery, and Jason Roller. Randy Poole served as engineer. Chronicle anticipates a high-quality outcome from this accomplished team.