Joel Hemphill is the writer of such Gospel classics as “He’s Still Working On Me,” “Consider The Lilies,” “I Claim The Blood,” “Master Of The Wind,” “I’m Not Perfect, Just Forgiven,” “The Sweetest Words He Ever Said,” “Jesus Saves,” “Let’s Have A Revival,” and many more – over 350 in all!
As 200-plus friends and family began to gather at the Patron Center, they were greeted by a string quartet of some of Nashville’s finest players, who were performing Joel’s music for the guests as they arrived.
Outgoing SGMG president, Elliott McCoy, was the master of ceremonies, and after the opening prayer by Joel’s pastor, Rev. Todd Coconato, Joel, along with his wife, Christie, and his children, Candy Hemphill Christmas, Trent Hemphill, and Joey Hemphill, were introduced to the stage, where they remained throughout the presentation.
All of the music that was performed were songs written by Joel. His granddaughter, Jasmine Christmas Brady, shared some thoughts about her grandfather, then sang “Jesus Saves” accompanied by Burton Gaar. She also sang “I Claim The Blood,” and was accompanied by Gary Prim on piano.
Other musical performances included Grand Ole Opry members The Isaacs, who sang “Consider The Lilies,” and “Master Of The Wind.” Tim Lovelace played piano and led the guests in “Let’s Have A Revival.”
There were video clips with heartfelt messages from Jeff & Sheri Easter, Johnny Minick, and Phil Cross.
Speakers included Pastor Bill Bailey, Duane Allen of The Oak Ridge Boys, and Ricky Skaggs. Duane Allen presented Joel with a proclamation from Tennessee Governor, Bill Lee, recognizing Joel and proclaiming him a Tennessee Ambassador of Goodwill.
Other speakers included Candy Christmas, Trent Hemphill, and Joey Hemphill, who shared many of the stories behind the songs along with memories of traveling together with their mom (LaBreeska) and dad as The Hemphills. The entire evening was a beautiful time of reflecting and reminiscing.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was officially presented to Joel by Elliott McCoy and Judy Nelon on behalf of all members of the Southern Gospel Music Guild.
Elliott McCoy stated, “I do not have adequate words to describe the joy and honor it was to present the Lifetime Achievement Award to Joel Hemphill. The room was filled with friends and family, and you could just feel the love for Joel and his precious family. The presence of the Lord was felt in the room. Joel’s songs are a true gift from God!”
About The Southern Gospel Music Guild
The Southern Gospel Music Guild (SGMG) is an organization that consists of artists, record label executives, publishers, radio, concert promoters, booking agents, media representatives, and more, who work together to increase the visibility and awareness of, and appreciation for, Southern Gospel music. You can learn more by going to www.sgmg.org.