Set Sail in Faith: Discover the Ocean Retreat Christian Cruise With The Mark Trammell Quartet & Friends

Have you heard about Ocean Retreat? If not, this is your invitation to experience something truly special.

Next March, believers from all over will come together for an unforgettable, faith-centered journey through the beautiful Caribbean. Departing from Fort Lauderdale, this 5-day cruise offers the perfect blend of relaxation, renewal, and powerful spiritual encouragement.

Each morning at sea and in port, you’ll be encouraged and challenged through dynamic teaching from Dr. Anthony George of First Baptist Church, Atlanta. His messages will center your heart in God’s Word and set the tone for a meaningful day ahead.

But the inspiration doesn’t stop there.

Throughout the cruise, you’ll be uplifted by the incredible sounds of The Mark Trammell Quartet and The Mylon Hayes Family. Their heartfelt harmonies and Gospel-rooted music will create moments of worship you won’t soon forget.

Helping guide the experience will be Dr. Matthew Slemp, also of First Baptist Church Atlanta, serving as onboard emcee and worship leader—bringing everything together with energy, encouragement, and a heart for ministry.

From the charm of Key West to the crystal-clear waters of Nassau, every stop along the way offers both beauty and time to reflect on God’s goodness.

Whether you’re looking to grow spiritually, connect with other believers, or simply rest and recharge in a Christ-centered atmosphere, Ocean Retreat is more than a vacation—it’s a journey of faith.

Pricing for this incredible experience starts at just $995 per person.

Spots are limited, and this is one voyage you won’t want to miss.

Lauren Talley’s “Walls” tells of God’s power to transform a believer’s life

“I’m so excited to release some new music,” enthuses Horizon Records artist Lauren Talley, but she’s likely no more excited about it than her legion of fans. Though she released the well-received A Lauren Talley Christmas in 2024, “Walls” is her first new Gospel song in nearly four years — and this time, she’s turned to Dove Award-winning producer Jason Webb to help bring her musical vision to life.

“‘Walls’ came from my good friends Joseph Habedank, Tony Wood and Michael Farren. Joseph is one of the top soloists in Southern Gospel — and in all of Christian music today — and he’s a friend of mine. So I texted him and said, ‘Hey, why didn’t you cut this song?’  And he said, ‘Are you wanting it?’ And when I said, ‘Yeah,’ he said, ‘Well, then, I probably should have!’”

With its powerful rhythms and gritty guitars that blend inspirational and CCM textures, “Walls” is an energizing vehicle for Talley’s confident, assertive vocal, as she serves up its message of God’s power to transform a believer’s life:

He ain’t never met a wall that He couldn’t tear down

Watch it crumbling to the ground

He ain’t never met a wall, that He couldn’t break through

Oh, just watch what he’s gonna do

Gonna do to your walls

“‘Walls’ is just a groovy, fun song, full of bluesy attitude, but I sure have seen the truth of this song lived out in my life,” Talley says. “If you’re having a rough day, you can remind yourself that ‘He ain’t never met a wall that He couldn’t tear down.’ I think you’ll like it!”

Greater Vision & Mylon Hayes Family Expand Collaboration

Greater Vision and The Mylon Hayes Family are expanding their collaborative efforts with the announcement of The Family & Friends Gospel Tour. Gospel Music’s*Favorite Trio and *Favorite Mixed Group will unite for a limited number of select dates throughout the year, for these special Gospel Music concerts.      The Family & Friends Gospel Tour will feature each group, performing their newest songs, as well as their well-known hits and classics. The special concerts will also include segments featuring unique combinations of singers from each group, and segments produced exclusively for The Family & Friends Gospel Tour, with both groups performing together. According to Mylon Hayes; “The first two years of “The Family & Friends ChristmasTour”have been so wonderfully received, it only seemed fitting to offer the same package all year round!” Gerald Wolfe added; “Anyone who has attended one of our Christmas concerts can tell we really enjoy working together to create a memorable event. So, creating this new Gospel Music tour is something we’re very excited about.” ”The Family & Friends Gospel Tour and The Family & Friends Christmas Tour are scheduled exclusively through The Harper Agency. Available dates for 2026 and2027 are limited. For scheduling information, visit www.HarperAgency.com or call 615-851-4500.

For more information, visit www.FamilyAndFriendsTour.com.

Current And Past Kingsmen Members Reunite For “Is That The Old Ship Of Zion”

“Brandon [Reese] and I were brainstorming in the back of the bus one day,” recounts The Kingsmen’s Alan Kendall, talking about the origin of the Southern Gospel quartet’s latest single for Horizon Records. “With all of the tracking done for the 70th anniversary album, and with us about to record vocals, we both agreed that we needed something just a little extra special, and from that visit blossomed the idea to have a Kingsmen Choir of members past and present re-record ‘Old Ship of Zion’ together.”

Written by Conrad Cook, “Is That the Old Ship of Zion” was first recorded by the legendary group more than 50 years ago and remains one their most beloved a capella numbers.

“We invited every former member that we could reach to come record with us,” Kendall continues. “Not all were able to be there, but we were blown away by the response. Greg Fox, Ray Talley, Arthur Rice, Garry Sheppard, Jerry Martin, Bryan Hutson, Bob Sellers, Josh Horrell, and Chris Bryant all joined Ray Dean, Harold, Cole, Brady, and me in the studio on September 29th last year for a very special mini-reunion, full of laughs and tears. Chris Jenkins was not able to be with us that day, but graciously recorded vocals in Nashville and sent them to us. To sweeten the recording, we lifted vocals from a past version of the song featuring Squire Parsons and Ernie Phillips and then discovered that Nick Bruno’s voice was also in the mix. What a neat added surprise!

“I hope everybody listening to this cut feels the Spirit we felt that day,” Kendall concludes. “I won’t forget it as long as I live.”

“Is That the Old Ship of Zion” is streaming in Dolby Atmos spatial audio on Apple Music, Amazon Music and TIDAL. 

New Haven Records Announces New Single From Chicago Mass Choir

New Haven Records announces the release of a brand-new single from Stellar Award-winning recording artist, The Chicago Mass Choir. He’ll Make It Alright, marks the sophomore release from the renown Choir’s latest recording, Greater Is Coming. He’ll Make It Alright, releases on the heels of their exciting tour in Spain. Chicago Mass Choir is known as international ambassadors and recently completed a four-week 21 concert tour of Spain from November 25, 2025 until December 23, 2025.  Also, He’ll Make it Alright is the follow up release of He’s A Wonder, the single which was a finalist for a Dove Award in 2025 and has enjoyed over 1.3 million views on YouTube. Additionally, He’s A Wonder has been performed by choirs around the world, including the Church of God In Christ (COGIC) International Mass Choir. “He’ll Make It Alright is a song of encouragement that reminds people around the world not to worry,” states long-time Chicago Mass Choir President & CEO, Dr. Feranda Williamson. “No matter what struggles we face, God will make things alright. In these challenging times, songs of hope like He’ll Make It Alright inspire listeners to persevere through trials and tribulations. For those facing loss, uncertainty or hardship, He’ll Make It Alright offers reassurance that brighter days are ahead. The lyrics encourage listeners to trust that their burdens will be lifted.” 

LeFevre Quartet Announce New Pianist

The LeFevre Quartet is pleased to announce that Jack Jordan has joined the group as their new pianist. At just 19 years old, Jack represents the next generation of gospel music and brings remarkable musical ability and a sincere heart for ministry to the beloved quartet.

Jack’s love for gospel music is deeply rooted in his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. He began playing piano and singing at just five years old and quickly sensed a calling to use his God-given abilities in service to the Lord. Known for his servant’s heart and genuine love for people, Jack has already earned the respect of many in the gospel music community.

Before joining The LeFevre Quartet, Jack spent the past two years traveling and ministering with the Troy Burns Family, gaining valuable experience on the road and growing in his calling to share the Gospel through music.

“I am truly excited and grateful for the opportunity to join The LeFevre Quartet,” Jack shares. “Their ministry has been a tremendous blessing to so many, and I am honored to help continue that legacy. The men in this group are incredibly talented, but more importantly, they have sincere hearts for ministry and a deep commitment to serving the Lord. I look forward to serving alongside them and helping point people to Christ through the music.”

Group founder Mike LeFevre shared his enthusiasm about the addition.

“We’re thrilled to have Jack joining the group. He brings incredible talent to the piano, and it’s exciting to see someone so young who genuinely loves gospel music. Seeing the next generation step into this music with that kind of passion gives us confidence about the future of the genre.”

Jordan LeFevre added, “From the moment we spent time with Jack, his maturity really stood out to us. He carries himself with humility and professionalism well beyond his years, and he has a sincere desire to serve the Lord through music.”

With Jack Jordan stepping into the role of pianist, The LeFevre Quartet continues its legacy of sharing the timeless message of the Gospel while investing in the next generation of gospel music.

Mark Bishop’s “You Better Go Read It” gives a soulful piece of advice

After the down-home country feel that carries the meditation on life’s pathways of “The Fishing Pole,” Southern Gospel singer-songwriter Mark Bishop is back with a syncopated, soulful piece of advice in his newest Sonlite Records release, “You Better Go Read It.”

“How many times has a strange icon lit up on the dashboard of your car,” Bishop asks with a smile, “and you have to fish out the owner’s manual in the glove compartment to figure out what’s going on?  Wouldn’t it be great if we had a manual for when our lives needed some tune-up or repair? Guess what… we do!”

“But it doesn’t do you any good if you don’t go read it,” he observes.  “All of the answers are right there. It’s called the Bible, and it’s an owner’s manual for your life. Yours. Our newest song, ‘You Better Go Read It,’ is a playful, happy reminder that God has given us a gift… a roadmap… an instruction book… an insurance policy. But it does you no good if you don’t read it.”

Indeed, that playful mood is established at the outset, as Bishop asks:

Can I have your attention? This’ll only take a minute. You’re runnin’ in the rat race. Now how ya’ gonna win it? Do you know where you’re going? When the journey’s through? Got any idea… who might be waitin’ for you?

And when he launches into the revelatory chorus, he’s joined by label mate Amber Lynn in alternating harmonies with invigorating back-and-forths:

You better go read it. It’s right there in the Word. You’re really gonna need it. Maybe you haven’t heard, There’s a hell and a heaven, there’s a right way and a wrong. By the end of the journey, who’s side will you be on? There’s a road map… you get to see it. But you better go read it.

“I am especially excited for you to hear this new song,” Bishop adds, “because it also features my friend and live concert piano player, Tony Gross. If you’ve come to any of our concerts, you already know how talented this young man is on the keys. Well… now you can hear Tony play whenever you want to. Ladies and gentlemen… I present to you, recorded for the first time, the musical talents of Tony Gross on our newest song…‘You Better Go Read It’!”

“You Better Go Read It” is streaming in Dolby Atmos spatial audio on Apple Music, Amazon Music and TIDAL

StowTown Announces New Recording From Sunday Drive

StowTown Records is pleased to announce the latest full album release from multi–Dove Award nominated trio, Sunday Drive. Rise and Shine, available here, is the label’s sophomore project from the group. Made up of husband/wife, Jeff & Misty Treece, and brother, Dusty Treece, Sunday Drive continues its legacy of chart-topping radio success with a collection that blends fresh originals, reimagined favorites and a beloved modern church standard, offering something for gospel music fans of every generation. Having garnered Top 40 songs with “Grace and Goodness,” “There’s Always A Place At The Table,” “God Will Be God” and “Shine Down On Me,” the group has also earned multiple Vocal Group and Entertainer of the Year honors and remains a favorite in southern and country gospel circles. Additionally, they are a fan-favorite at Dollywood Theme Park, performing more than 40 dates annually at the renowned tourist destination. Produced by multi-award-winning Wayne Haun, Rise and Shine reflects the trio’s Tennessee roots while showcasing an evolved sound and renewed perspective. Haun shares his enthusiasm for this project, “While each album is special to me, this one is a little extra special. Most people don’t know, but I grew up in the same town as this talented family. As a child and even into our teenage years, our paths crossed many times at concerts and church services. Jeff and I would dream of making music together, and now here we are on the other side of it all these years later. I’m glad the Lord gives us the desires of our hearts.” Himself a songwriter, Haun explained the impact the family’s matriarch has had on his life, “This album is also special to me because as a child one of my favorite songs was written by Violet Treece, who left us way too soon. She was a mentor and encourager to me and even prayed over me that God would use my gifts. I was beyond happy that “The Way, The Truth, The Life” was chosen from her song portfolio for this project. When I was a kid, they called it their “Taco Bell Song,” and now it has a Caribbean feel, but the timeless message is still the same.” “Through It All,” a longtime favorite included on the new album, is a beloved anthem from the pen of legendary artist Andraé Crouch. Highlighting sweeping harmonies from Hillcrest Nashville with Misty Treece’s tender lead vocal, the song delivers a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness. Also on the album is “Mountains Are Made to Climb,” written by Jeff Treece, Joel Lindsey and Donna King, and featuring TaRanda Greene, whose distinct vocal blends beautifully with the groups interwoven harmonies. With Rise and Shine, Sunday Drive continues to inspire listeners with music rooted in harmony and unwavering faith. “We are so excited about our new album! We want it to feel like a burst of sunlight, full of joy & hope,” offers Dusty Treece. “We wanted every song to celebrate God’s faithfulness and His promise of brighter days ahead. We pray this project blesses you as much as it blessed us recording it.” Distributed exclusively by Sony/Provident, Rise and Shine is available at digital streaming outlets worldwide.

11th Hour’s “Jesus In A Jail Cell” serves us a universal message

The latest single from their 2024 album, That’s Who He Is, is just making its way up the Southern Gospel airplay charts, but Sonlite Records’ popular trio, 11th Hour, are keeping fans happy with their first new music since that project’s release. Sent to the group by its writer, Michael Peterson, “Jesus in a Jail Cell” seemed to come out of nowhere, yet it turned out to be a perfect fit.

“I loved this song from the first time I heard it,” says Garrett Saunders, who takes the lead on this moving tale of redemption. “It’s unique in the story it tells but it speaks truth. We all have our own story, but the beauty of them all is that Jesus met us right where we were.”

Jesus meeting us right where we are is, indeed, the theme of “Jesus in a Jail Cell,” brought to life in a country-flavored arrangement directed by producer Roger Talley. And while the story vividly depicts the setting described in the title:

He had tattoos up and down his arms,

Still carried the battle scars

From a life of hard livin’

I was guarding cell block A

We started talking faith

And religion

He said my favorite verse in the Bible is John 3:16

Cause late one night I realized what that whosoever means

the memorable chorus of “Jesus in a Jail Cell” serves up a truly universal message.

Some people find salvation

In a Sunday morning pew

With a gospel call, choir singing

And glory fills the room

It’s all hallelujahs as they lay their burdens down

I was broken on my knees in Hell

When I found Jesus in a jail cell

“Jesus In A Jail Cell” is streaming in Dolby Atmos spatial audio on Apple Music, Amazon Music and TIDAL. 

A Historic Gaither Homecoming: 250 Artists Gather Together with Bill Gaither Ahead of His 90th Birthday on I Go to the Rock, Out March 27

Last fall more than 250 recording artists came together to lift their voices for one of Bill and Gloria Gaither’s largest Homecoming tapings to date. Performances from that historic, all-day event will be released March 27, 2026, on CD and DVD as I Go to the Rock (Gaither Music Group). Out today is the first single, “Bread Upon the Water,” featuring Wes Hampton, Marshall Hall, Michael Booth, Ronnie Booth, Ernie Haase, and Dustin Doyle.

Hosted by Gospel icons Bill and Gloria Gaither, I Go to the Rock is a celebration of faith and hope that highlights the Gaithers’ rich legacy and features some of the most lauded talents in Gospel music. The recording, which will be released as a TV special on numerous networks worldwide, also serves as a heartfelt tribute to three-time Gospel Music Hall of Famer Bill Gaither, who turns 90 the day before the album’s release. I Go To The Rock reminds us of strength found in the Rock of Ages

Intricately produced musically yet intimately delivered, I Go to the Rock invites listeners to enjoy new performances from many of Christian music’s most enduring stars and to sing along with the uplifting choir of voices. Inspiring moments include an a cappella rendition of “Amazing Grace” led by Sonya Isaacs; Chris Blue, Jason Crabb and Angie Primm leading the audience through a heartwarming rendition of “I Go to the Rock;” and a special spoken-word segment by Gloria Gaither. Additional classics performed at the LIVE concert event include “Where Could I Go,” “Just As I Am” and a moving rendition of “Sweet Beulah Land,” penned by the late Squire Parsons and delivered by his son, Sam Parsons, offering a powerful moment of faith-filled legacy.

Out today is the single, “Bread Upon the Water,” a song written by Bill and Janny Grein that appeared on the Gaither Vocal Band’s 2006 release, Give It Away. This new performance features current Gaither Vocal Band vocalist, Wes Hampton, alongside GVB alumnus Marshall Hall, joined by Michael Booth, Ronnie Booth, Ernie Haase, and Dustin Doyle. This soulful and stirring performance features both solo vocal performances and exhilarating choral ensemble voices.

I Go to the Rock will be released as an audio album, full-length DVD, and a television special. The TV special will air on TBN, RFD-TV, The Word Network, Vision, TCT, The Walk TV, TLN, Hope TV, The Miracle Channel, CTS, CTN, and Heartland. A radio special will premiere on SiriusXM Radio, and music from the project will also be featured on Bill Gaither’s SiriusXM enLighten channel (Channel 150).

The full-length project will also be available to steam at Gaither TV+ or purchase the DVD and CD at Gaither.com. Purchase or stream the project here.

“To stand shoulder to shoulder in praise and song with over 250 artists was awe-inspiring,” said Bill Gaither. “Vocal performances included Gospel pioneers who helped build this family of singers and musicians, along with new vocal talent delivering this music and message to the next generation. It was a special day for Gloria and me.”

Award-winning performers include the Gaither Vocal Band, Sandi Patty, The Martins, The Isaacs, Chris Blue, Jason Crabb, David Phelps, Angela Primm and many others. This record-setting event brought together acclaimed and rising talent from across Christian and country music to film at TBN Studios in Hendersonville, Tennessee. More than a gathering of artists, it was a day of fellowship and devotion expressed through joyful song.

Over 70 heartfelt renditions of hymns and Gospel classics were captured in the one-day TV taping which will be released as four separate CD and DVD projects. I Go To The Rock includes 13 selections curated for the audio CD and 14 songs and stories for the companion DVD.