Kingdom Heirs Announce New Tenor

The Kingdom Heirs are excited to announce the addition of John Young to the tenor position for The Kingdom Heirs. In his third year with the group, John will be stepping up to a front line of talented singers as he vacates his role as utility player/vocalist for our multi award-winning band. This decision comes after much patience and prayers as we continue to seek God’s will as we move forward in our ministry. Please join the quartet in celebrating the addition of John Young to his new position with The Kingdom Heirs family. The Kingdom Heirs express, “We also want to express our gratitude for the overwhelming response from each person who took time to reach out and share their talents during this two-month process. We thank you for your interest and may you continue to seek God’s plan for your life and career. We love you all and thank you for the continued love, support, and prayers.” For more information on The Kingdom Heirs visit their website: www.kingdomheirs.com.

Gaither To Host 2-Day Event In MN

On May 1 & 2, 2026, Gospel Music legend Bill Gaither (pictured in attached jpg) will present a Homecoming Weekend musical celebration at Grace Church in Eden Prairie, MN. Over the course of two days, nearly two dozen Homecoming friends will gather for two exciting concert events. After decades of unprecedented musical success, in 1992 two former schoolteachers turned songwriters were on the verge of retirement. An avid fan of Gospel quartets throughout his childhood, Bill Gaither founded his first group, The Bill Gaither Trio in 1956 while in college. A few years later he would meet his future wife, Gloria Sickal. The two would marry in 1962 and go on to become arguably the most successful Gospel songwriting team in history, collectively penning more than 700 songs and becoming ASCAP Songwriters of the Century. Before retiring, Gaither gathered his multi-talented quartet, The Gaither Vocal Band, and a few of his long-time heroes like Jake Hess, Hovie Lister, Howard and Vestal Goodman, James Blackwood, Glen Payne, George Younce and JD Sumner to record the classic song, Where Could I Go. “The plan was to go in that morning, record the song, eat some fried chicken and go home,” Gaither remembers. “We had a camera guy in the room videotaping, really just for my own personal pleasure, and we decided to take a picture before everyone left. After we took the picture, Eva Mae was sitting at the piano and someone said, ‘Hey Eva Mae, play this’…then everyone started singing. About four hours later, we were still sitting around, singing, sharing stories, laughing and crying, and no one wanted to leave. We had lost all track of time.” When Gaither got the video footage home, he showed it to his wife, Gloria, and the two decided it was something that needed to be shared with the world. Now, 30 years later the Homecoming music collection has become a phenomenon that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. The series gave birth to the Gaither Homecoming concert tour, which has taken place in cities worldwide with collective attendance figures exceedingly more than 1.1 million, while nearly every volume in the the DVD & CD series has certified gold or platinum. For over three decades, Bill and Gloria Gaither have taken their exciting Homecoming Tour on the road, touring internationally and enjoying sold out crowds in cities worldwide. The exciting tradition continues in Eden Prairie as this 2026 Homecoming Celebration brings together dozens of artists on one stage for a weekend that has the promise of being quite historical. This special weekend will feature Gaither’s own Vocal Band, consisting of Wes Hampton, Reggie Smith, Adam Crabb and Todd Suttles, as well as Gaither alum Mark Lowry, Grammy-winning male vocalist, Jason Crabb, as well as popular multi-award-winning groups like The Martins, The Hoppers and Karen Peck & New River. Additionally, popular Homecoming artists set to appear include Gordon Mote, Joseph Habedank, Angela Primm, Lynda Randle, Gene McDonald, Ladye Love Smith, Chris Blue and other popular Homecoming friends. This two-day concert event promises to be exciting for the entire family. Make plans now to be a part of the Gaither Homecoming in Eden Prairie at Grace Church on May 1 & 2. Those interested in purchasing tickets for the event may sign up for the pre-sale that will happen on December 17 at bit.ly/GVBHS26SignUp. Tickets go on sale to the general public on December 19. Additional information regarding this exciting event is available at gaither.com or tprlive.co.

Big Picture Welcomes Right Road Quartet

Big Picture Records is excited to announce the signing of Right Road Quartet to an exclusive recording agreement. 

Based in Columbia, MS, Right Road Quartet has been touring nationally since 2022. Made up of Matt Linton (group founder and lead singer), Caleb Dunn (bass), Kip Barrier (tenor), and Jason Pope (baritone), Right Road brings a high-energy, ministry-focused program to churches everywhere.  “Myself and Right Road Quartet are absolutely thrilled to be officially signed with Big Picture Records,” states Linton. “The entire team at Big Picture has been incredible to work with, and we’re so thankful for their belief in our ministry and music. We can’t wait to see what doors the Lord continues to open!”  “We are excited to work with Right Road Quartet to spread the Gospel to people everywhere,” shared Ed Leonard of Big Picture Records (Daywind Music Group). “I can’t wait for fans to hear the new music they are making!” “We’re happy to add Right Road to the family of great artists at Big Picture Records. Their excellence in both recording and live performance will raise the bar,” Jaquita Jenkins, A&R Big Picture Records.  Right Road’s first single release on the Big Picture label, “Just One Drop of Blood,” was produced by the late Garry Jones (Gold City, Mercy’s Mark, Canton Junction), Matthew Browder, and John Darin Rowsey and written by Kevin Wright. The song shipped to radio in November on the Daywind Radio Disc and will be available on digital streaming and download platforms in January 2026.  Look for Right Road Quartet on the main stage of National Quartet Convention in September 2026 as well as many other great Southern Gospel concerts across the country. 

CLUB44 RECORDS RELEASES NEW CHRISTMAS PROJECT FOR ERNIE HAASE & SIGNATURE SOUND

Just before the holiday season kicks into high gear, Club44 Records has announced the release of a brand-new Christmas recording from multi-award-winning quartet, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound. A Jazzy Little Christmas Live At Birdland marks the group’s debut live Christmas album and is available at https://c44.lnk.to/AJazzyLittleChristmas.

A Jazzy Little Christmas Live At Birdland once again unites multi-award-winning producer/arranger, Wayne Haun, with vocalists Ernie Haase, Doug Anderson, Dustin Doyle and Christopher Taylor to produce a recording that captures the electrifying energy that only Signature Sound can provide, with the excitement and wonder of Christmas.

Recorded live at the legendary Birdland Jazz Club in the heart of Manhattan, this one-of-a-kind performance brings together the smooth elegance of jazz, the soul-stirring warmth of gospel and the festive sparkle of Christmas classics – all wrapped with Signature Sound’s impeccable harmonies. Birdland first opened in 1949,” states Ernie Haas, “and since that time, practically every jazz legend has performed at this historic venue. As a Southern Gospel quartet, to be invited to play at such a prestigious place was challenging but also so fulfilling.”

From swinging takes on holiday standards to reverent renditions of sacred carols, A Jazzy Little Christmas Live At Birdland captures the spirit of the season as each track is reminiscent of a Christmas card from the golden age of jazz. Traditional standards include, “Winter Wonderland,” “Mister Santa” and “It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas,” while classic sacred songs include “O Holy Night,” “Peace On Earth(with Silent Night)” and “We Three Kings.” A highlight of the recording is “Feliz Navidad,” which features gifted saxophonist Uriel Vega, and the all-star live band comprised of Tyler Vestal, Wes Jones, Eli Fortner and Roger Fortner.

A Jazzy Little Christmas Live At Birdland provides the perfect soundtrack for trimming the tree or sipping hot cocoa by the fire in the company of special loved ones. The timeless sounds of Christmas come to life as Ernie Haase and Signature Sound deliver Holiday magic with A Jazzy Little Christmas.

A Jazzy Little Christmas Live At Birdland is distributed exclusively by The Orchard and is available on all digital streaming platforms worldwide.

Joel Hemphill Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

On November 11, 2025, the Southern Gospel Music Guild (SGMG) presented singer/songwriter/author Joel Hemphill with the Lifetime Achievement Award. The ceremony was held at the beautiful Patron Event Center, located next to Regeneration Nashville church in Goodlettsville, Tennessee (a suburb of Nashville).

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.

Joseph Habedank Pays Tribute To Classic Artist

Two-time GRAMMY® nominee and Dove Award-winning artist Joseph Habedank is set to honor one of Christian music’s most celebrated voices with his forthcoming project, The Great Adventure: A Tribute to Steven Curtis Chapman, available November 21 via Daywind Records. The 12-track collection reimagines some of Steven Curtis Chapman’s most beloved and timeless songs, interpreted through Habedank’s signature voice and artistry. Among the selections are fan favorites including “His Strength Is Perfect,” “My Redeemer Is Faithful and True,” and the iconic title track “The Great Adventure.” The first single, which released September 5, is Habedank’s fashioning of “The Great Adventure”. It gave listeners a preview of the powerful and heartfelt renditions that make up the full album. Produced by Brent Milligan, the project offers a new perspective on Chapman’s classics while staying true to the heart and message that have inspired generations. “Steven Curtis Chapman’s music has been a soundtrack of faith for so many of us,” shares Joseph Habedank. “It’s an honor to pay tribute to the incredible songs that shaped my own walk and to share them with today’s audiences in a new way.” “I’m truly humbled by Joseph’s decision to record this tribute,” says Chapman. “Hearing these songs interpreted through his voice and heart is such a gift. I pray they will continue to encourage and inspire people just as they have throughout the years.” With a career spanning more than 35 years, Steven Curtis Chapman remains the most awarded artist in Christian music history, with 59 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, 5 GRAMMY® Awards, and countless hits that have left an indelible mark on the genre. The Great Adventure: A Tribute to Steven Curtis Chapman is more than a covers project—it’s a heartfelt celebration and reimagination of Chapman’s legacy, seen through the lens of one of today’s leading voices in Christian music. “I’m blown away and incredibly honored that my friend Joseph is releasing an entire album of my songs! I can’t wait for everybody to hear it!” –Steven Curtis Chapman

Justified Quartet is pleased to welcome Aaron Swain

Justified Quartet is pleased to welcome Forest, VA native Aaron Swain as their new baritone singer. Swain joins the group following the 15-year tenure of former baritone and co-founder Mark Jacoby. Jacoby announced his departure this summer, citing the increasing demands of managing his 800-acre farm in Akron, MI.

Swain is no stranger to Southern Gospel Music, having served as the baritone for PromisedLand Quartet for ten years until their retirement in August 2025. Off the road, he works in Transfer Evaluations for the Registrar’s Office at Liberty University. He also co-hosts the podcast Southern Gospel Forward, which highlights the next generation of Gospel Music.

“When PromisedLand Quartet retired, I truly had no idea what my next step would be,” says Swain. “The first time I filled in with Justified Quartet, everything immediately ‘clicked’. I could not be more thrilled for the future with Tim, Tony, and Anthony. I am so honored to help carry on the history of this group that start 15 years ago.”

Group owner and founder Tim Calwell adds, “I am so excited to welcome Aaron onboard. Over the past couple of months, while he’s been filling in, I’ve seen not only his heart for ministry but also his love for people. He is a great addition that Tony, Anthony and myself are thrilled about. The group has experienced several changes in recent years, but God continues to show us that He is in control. We are looking forward to what He has in store for this lineup.”

Southern Gospel & Christian Country Jubilee Coming to Madison, TN!

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of uplifting music and heartfelt worship! The Southern Gospel and Christian Country Jubilee is coming to Faith Baptist Church in Madison, Tennessee, on Friday, November 8 at 6 PM CST.

This special event will feature performances by some of your favorite artists, including Music City Quartet, Bev McCann, and Mercy’s Won, with Marty Smith serving as emcee. Together, they’ll deliver a powerful night filled with Southern Gospel harmonies, country charm, and messages of faith that inspire and encourage.

Doors open at 5 PM, and there’s no admission fee — everyone is welcome! A love offering will be received during the concert.

Come join us for a night of joy, fellowship, and fantastic gospel music at:

Faith Baptist Church

1602 Gallatin Pike N, Madison, TN

Don’t miss this chance to experience the very best in Southern Gospel and Christian Country music —  this will be a night to remember!

The LeFevre Quartet Welcomes New Tenor

The LeFevre Quartet is pleased to announce Joshua Horrell as the group’s new tenor vocalist. Horrell steps into the role following the transition of tenor Jonathan Price, who is stepping away from full-time ministry.

After more than 25 years in music ministry, Jonathan shared that his decision to step away from full-time ministry came only after much prayerful consideration. “This has not been an easy decision,” he said, “but I have peace knowing it’s the right step in this season of life.” Jonathan expressed deep gratitude to his wife, Megan, and their children for their love and support through the years, and he spoke warmly of his time with the group. “Mike and Jordan LeFevre are without a doubt true men of God, and it has been an honor to work for such men of integrity,” he shared. “From my very first weekend with the LeFevre Quartet ten years ago, I knew I wanted to be part of this ministry. Mike, Jordan, and Daniel have become like brothers, and I’ll always consider them family.”

Joining the group as the new tenor, Josh Horrell said he is humbled and excited to carry on the quartet’s legacy. “The LeFevre name represents one of the most respected and enduring legacies in gospel music,” he shared. “To now be part of that history is a dream come true.” Horrell said he looks forward to hitting the road with Mike, Jordan, and Daniel and continuing to share the timeless message of hope and salvation through song.

Group founder Mike LeFevre expressed both gratitude and anticipation during the transition. “Jonathan has been an incredible blessing to our ministry and to audiences across the country,” LeFevre said. “We are so thankful for his dedication, friendship, and faithfulness over his time with us. At the same time, we’re excited to welcome Josh and look forward to seeing how God will continue to use the LeFevre Quartet in this next chapter.”

Jordan LeFevre added, “Josh brings an amazing voice and a genuine heart for ministry. From the first moment we sang together, it just felt right. We believe God has great things ahead for this group and for the people we’ll reach through the message of our music.”

The LeFevre Quartet continues to tour, carrying on a legacy of excellence and devotion that has defined the group for generations. To see where you can find the LeFevre Quartet live, visit their full tour schedule at lefevrequartet.com.

DOWN EAST BOYS BLEND CELTIC MUSIC WITH THE JOYS OF CHRISTMAS IN DEBUT STOWTOWN RECORDS RELEASE

The Down East Boys are adding a fresh chapter to their storied career and bringing a touch of Ireland to the Christmas season with their new holiday album, An Irish Christmas, available here from StowTown Records. Recorded in part with the prestigious RTÉ Concert Orchestra in Dublin, Ireland, the project carves a bold and exciting path for the group, blending rich harmonies with the lush, cinematic sounds of Celtic tradition.

Produced and arranged by multi-award-winning Jason Webb and capturing the authentic spirit of the Emerald Isle, An Irish Christmas takes listeners on a musical journey filled with joy, reverence and Celtic flair. The result is a vibrant collection of toe-tapping jigs and heart-stirring favorites that pay homage to Irish music while celebrating the timeless message of Christmas.

“Going to Ireland and recording with the RTÉ Orchestra of Dublin was the highlight of my 35 years of recording gospel music,” says group owner Ricky Carden. “We’ve added orchestra to many songs over the years, but being in that room when the full orchestra began to play was simply overwhelming. It’s a celebration of the season unlike anything we’ve done before.”

Under the direction of Webb and multi-award-winning producer and StowTown label executive, Wayne Haun, the group hand-selected traditional Christmas songs and Irish carols that naturally lend themselves to a Celtic feel. Webb’s imaginative arrangements balance traditional instrumentation with the group’s signature quartet style, creating a sound that is both fresh and timeless.

To capture the full experience, a film crew accompanied the group to Dublin, documenting their recording, exploring and soaking in the Irish culture. The resulting documentary will air on Singing News TV throughout the holiday season, giving viewers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of An Irish Christmas and the inspiration behind the project.

StowTown Records President and CEO Landon Beene shared, “The StowTown team is beyond excited about this iconic holiday release. Our hope is that An Irish Christmas will become a beloved classic listeners will come back to again and again. More importantly, we pray that the message of the Gospel of Jesus presented in these songs will extend far beyond the holiday season.”

Since 1985, the Down East Boys have remained one of gospel music’s most respected and beloved quartets, with numerous Number 1 hits and a devoted fan base. With An Irish Christmas, the group continues to innovate while staying true to the heartfelt message that defines their music. Distributed exclusively by Provident/Sony, An Irish Christmas is available on all digital streaming platforms worldwide.

Track List:

Angels We Have Heard on High / Hark the Herald Angels Sing)

Christmas in Killarney

What Child Is This

Caroling Medley: We Wish You a Merry Christmas / Here We Come-A’ Caroling / Caroling, Caroling

God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

Cradle In Bethlehem

Wexford Carol

On This Night In Bethlehem

The Holly and The Ivy

Sing We Now of Christmas

Danny Boy