News Archive Page

We were informed by Zadella "Mama" Curtis that Mr. Melvin Couch, CEO of Meltone Records, Meltone Entertainment Group and NuSound Entertainment, died today at 3:15 PM, in Douglasville, Georgia.

Visit Quartet Central for more information about Mr. Couch and his memorial services. We solicit your prayers for his family, fans, and friends.

There is a lot of great news coming from The New Pearly Gates. You might remember this group from our review of their CD in September. The group has informed us that �anointed vocalist� Montell Hill has returned to the Gates. According to the Gates, Mr. Hill is a very important part of the vision that God gave them for their ministry. The group is also working on a new CD that should be released in 2010. And, the group is excited about the prospect of joining a national label. It is in the plans. So, look for some exciting things from The New Pearly Gates in 2010.

Congratulations to The Williams Brothers. Their CD The Journey Continues� was nominated for a Grammy Award in the category of Best Traditional Gospel Album. For a complete list of the nominees visit The Grammy Awards� website.

The Fantastic Violinaires are in the studio working on a new CD. The project will contain great sounds delivered in that vintage Violinaires' style. The project should be released before the summer of 2010. The group is also planning to record a DVD of their performance of new and some old songs. The DVD is also scheduled to be released in 2010. Continue to check the Industry News page for date and location for the live DVD recording. And, as soon as the first single is available it will be on Gloryland Gospel Quartet Radio Broadcast.

Loretta Coleman informed us that the Annual New Year's gospel quartet concert will take place in Columbia, SC. Three of the groups from Gloryland Gospel�s recent Top 20 Quartet CDs� Chart will be on this program. They are The Echoaires, The Gospel Crusaders and The Lighthouse Singers. For the full lineup and additional information about the concert, visit L. C. Ministries� website.

Majestic Music Group has announced that the new release from Blest by Four should be in the marketplace the first quarter of 2010.

The Dynamic Gospel Flames, Chosen Disciples, The Spiritual Messengers, The Gospel Stairway, The Angelic Harmonizers, Majestic Voices, Karen Washington & New Singing Stars, Lynntesha Roberts & D�Vyne Faith, Lonnie Kelly & Together As One, The Gospel Trumpeteers, and The Angel Airs are some of the artists that have been nominated in various categories for the Resa Mitchell Report Awards. The Black Tie Gala event will take place on December 19, 2009, in Griffin, Georgia.

*****
December 1, 2009

As you begin your shopping for the perfect gift, why not consider one of the many great gospel quartet projects. We invite you to consider the projects listed in our Top 20, those that we have reviewed, and the many projects mentioned on our Quartet Industry News' page.

Well, the last month of the year is upon us. It has been a very active (and good) year for gospel quartet music. And, this month, from a gospel quartet standpoint, is sure to be just as active as the past eleven. After all, the Three Kings of Quartet will be in concert together December 18, 19 and 20, 2009. Visit the websites of Doc McKenzie & The Hi-Lites or Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC's for more information about the concerts.

Karen Washington & The New Singing Stars of Bainbridge, Georgia, have been nominated for the coveted award of Female Quartet of the year by the Resa Mitchell Report Awards of Griffin, Georgia. Visit their website to cast your vote.

Interesting fact - With the passing of Mr. Johnny Fields on November 12, 2009, the only remaining living original members of The Five Blinds Boys of Alabama is the legend, Mr. Clarence Fountain. And, another interesting note, there are no remaining ORIGINAL members of The Five Blind Boys Of Mississippi.

Look out for the new CD by The Original Five Blind Boys of Mississippi. The project is titled I Won�t Complain. The Blind Boys of Mississippi are more than Legends. They are an institution. And, fans of this legendary institution will not be disappointed in their new offering. The project is on the Meltone Entertainment Group label. Melvin Couch, President of Meltone, allowed the guys to so what they do best - deliver great gospel quartet music.

The American Gospel Quartet Convention has launched a new website. Just in time for the upcoming 18th gathering of quarteters, the website is the new official web presence for information about the convention. Visit the website - AGQC.

The Malaco Music Group is proud to introduce our newest internet radio station www.MalacoGospelRadio.com.

MalacoGospelRadio.com is a 24 hour fully interactive player that allows listeners to view the artists and songs being played as well as display the album�s cover artwork that the song is associated with while making it easy to purchase that individual song, the full album or ringtone with just a click of a button; This revolutionary player gives full functionality to the listener. If you have an IPhone and would like to take MalacoGospelRadio.com on the go with you, �There�s an app for that.� Just click on the IPhone link.

D.A. Johnson, Executive Director, Gospel Division states, �MalacoGospelRadio.com was not created to compete with our media partners that has supported The Malaco Music Group family of labels for over 40 years; In contrast, MalacoGospelRadio.com was created to assist in preserving Gospel music�s extensive rich heritage, expose it through a new medium, and make the product readily available for Gospel music appreciators who enjoy and miss hearing the sounds of the legendary Choirs, Quartets, Groups & Soloists on terrestrial radio stations. Our ultimate goal is for MalacoGospelRadio.com to develop and become a full fledged functioning internet Gospel radio station with �Live� announcers throughout all day parts and to create specialty shows as does our sister internet radio station www.southernsoulradio.com.�

The Malaco Music Group houses the largest and the oldest catalog in the world. Over 150 combined years of great Gospel music between its wholly owned subsidiaries, Malaco Records, Savoy Records, Muscle Shoals Sound Gospel, Atlanta International Records (Air Gospel), and it�s newly founded 4 Winds Records along with its distributed labels. At MalacoGospelRadio.com you will have the opportunity to experience all 150 years of the best Gospel music ever recorded.

Hear artists such as The Father Of Gospel Thomas A. Dorsey, The King Of Gospel Rev. James Cleveland, Mahalia Jackson, Dorothy Love Coates, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Sara Jordan Powell, The Caravans, The Soul Stirrers, The Jackson Southernaires, The Mississippi Mass Choir, Georgia Mass Choir, Wilmington Chester Mass Choir, Miami Mass Choir, The Godfather Of Gospel Rev. Timothy Wright, Rev. Charles Hayes & The Cosmopolitan Choir, Charles Fold & The Charles Fold Singers, Willie Neal Johnson & The Gospel Keynotes, Robert Blair & The Violinaires, The Williams Brothers, The Canton Spirituals, The Lumzy Sisters, The Truthettes, Slim & The Supreme Angels, Spencer Taylor & The Highway QC�s, Willie Banks & The Messengers, The Swan Silvertones, The Dixie Hummingbirds, The Swanee Quintet, The Sensational Nightingales, The Pilgrim Jubilees, The Sunset Jubilaires, The Christianaires, The Pace Sisters, Margaret �Babe� Allison & The Angelic Gospel Singers, Rev. Julius Cheeks, James Moore, Keith Pringle, O�landa Draper, Ricky Dillard & New Generation, The Mississippi Children�s Choir, Youth For Christ, The New York Restoration Choir Directed by Donnie McClurkin, The Florida Mass Choir, The Dallas / Ft Worth Choir (DFW), The Queen Of Gospel Albertina Walker, Dorothy Norwood, Shirley Caesar, Inez Andrews, LaShun Pace, Troy Sneed, Alvin Darling, James Bignon, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Luther Barnes & The Red Budd Chior, Rev. F.C. Barnes, Kirk Franklin, Byron Cage, Dottie Peoples, The Princess Of Praise & Worship Maurette Brown Clark, Carolyn Traylor, Men Of Standard, BeBe & CeCe Winans and many, many more.

To listen, click on the link www.MalacoGospelRadio.com

Malaco Music Group

Habakkuk Music has several artists that deserve your attention. This label has several award winning artists in their camp. It is not a stretch to say that Habakkuk is positioning itself to become a powerful force in the gospel music industry. The label releases live up to their mission to "deliver the gospel of Jesus Christ to the world through gospel music." Take a moment and listen to Lisa Page Brooks� Strong or James Grear & Company�s Don�t Waste Another Day.

Aretha Franklin's new Christmas CD is outstanding. There are eleven songs on this project. This Christmas will probably be one of the best selling holiday CD this year and for many years in the foreseeable future.

On November 15, 2009, The Voices of Clouds or Rochester, New York, will be celebrating 55 years of singing gospel music. Others sharing with the Clouds in this celebration are The Evereadys from Detroit, MI, "Steel Guitarist" Lonnie Bennett, Our Father's Children of Pen Yan, NY, The Bright Clouds, Olivia's Camp, Barbara Golden Lewis and Friends, Judah, and a special musical presentation from former members of The Voices of Clouds. For more information about this celebration, visit the group�s website.

Last November the buzz was about the campaign that resulted in the election of President Barack Obama. This November the buzz is about the upcoming live recording of Doc McKenzie and The Hi-Lites. The live recording is scheduled to take place on November 29, 2009, in Tampa, Florida. Doc and the guys will perform the songs from their new release, Renewed. Others on the program will be The Canton Spirituals, Related Gospel Singers of Macon, Georgia, and The Singing Angels of Tampa, Florida. For more information about the recording, visit the group�s website.

It is with much sadden that we inform you of the passing of Chequita Lumzy. Quita, as she was affectionately called, was one of the great lead singers in gospel music. As a member of the world famous Lumzy Sisters, Quita touch many with her extraordinary vocals. We were informed that she passed on Sunday, October 25, 2009. We extend our condolences to the Lumzy Family. We encourage you to visit QC Message Board for future announcement relating to the funeral arrangements.

If you are looking for a good compilation CD that includes songs by Doc, Lee, The Cantons and the late Rev. Howard Hunt, consider Gospel Live by MCG Records. MCG actually released this project in 2007. However, the CD is just as timely today as when it was released. There are fourteen (14) songs on this project. They include "Cooling Waters," "Over Yonder," "Going All The Way," "Sow Good Seeds," "Heavenly Choir" and "Don�t Stop Praising God."

No Greater Love is the title of Queen Ester McCormick of Tamarac, Florida new CD. Ms. McCormick version of "What A Friend" will have you wondering why you have not heard about her before.

The New Gospel Spirituals' 2009 release is titled Thank You. There are ten (10) great songs on this project. The guys may not have intended for the CD to be a tribute to quartet groups and singers from years ago. But, many of the arrangements and the chords used in various songs on this CD will immediately bring to mind favorite groups of this genre. The label that picks up this group will be getting a hidden treasure.

Have you heard of The Gospel Stairways of Griffin, GA? They previously recorded under the name of Walter & The Gospel Stairways. In 2008, they released the CD titled Lord We Thank You. Their most recent 3-play is titled God Of Another Chance. This group is worthy of your attention. They are on the Gospel Stairways Ministries� label.

We had the pleasure of listening to an advance copy of Apostle J. L. Cash & Praise�s new CD. This CD is packed with great gospel music. Apostle shares lead duties with members of Praise. So, you get to experience not only the Apostle�s strong vocals, but the exceptional vocals of the group members. There is literally something on this CD for everyone. Including a rendition of the song A Change is Gonna Come that will have you saying WOW! This will be another outstanding project from MCG Records.

Marylin�s (Marylin Louise Randolph) of Concord, Virginia, new CD is titled God Is Only A Prayer Away. This eight (8) track CD is full of great gospel music. One of the musicians for this project is the incomparable Benny Hill. Many will remember Benny from his days with Doc McKenzie and The Hi-Lites. With the extraordinary vocals of Ms. Randolph coupled with the talents of Benny this CD should become a favorite of Radio Angels and fans of gospel music.

Rev. R. L. Bush is back with a new group and new songs. His new group is Rev. R. L. Bush & Brand-Nu. Their upcoming release, New Beginning, is on the Low Rush Music Label. Rev. Bush is an outstanding singer. Many would consider him one of the best lead singers on the road today. He has recorded with The Flint Cavaliers, The Highway QC�s, The Jackson Southernaires, and The New Swan Silvertones. With that track record, you know Rev. Bush will deliver a great project.

A few months we reported that The Gospel Keynotes were scheduled to do a live recording in Hartsville, SC. Well, Larry McGowan told us that the recording did not happen. He also stated that the recording will happen 'soon.' Stay tune, as soon as we find out when and where, we will let you know.

Yes, there is a new guy with Doc McKenzie & The Hi-Lites. His name is Lamont Bradshir.

October begins with the legendary Swanee Quintet�s Anniversary. This year�s program features Doc McKenzie and The Hi-Lites, Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC�s, The Cantons, Darrell McFadden & The Disciples, The Singing Stars and The Sensational Nightingales. This is the Swanee�s 70th Anniversary. It will be held, as it the past, at the Bell Auditorium, in Augusta, GA. For more information about the program visit the Swanee�s website.

Jay Caldwell & The Gospel Ambassadors are in the studio working on a new CD. This group is as busy as ever. They can be found in concert somewhere in the country each weekend. They are one of the groups that you know are ready to sing praises to our Lord and Savior every time they hit the stage. Their new CD should be released in 2010.

The Malaco Music Group has launched a new label, 4 Winds Records. It appears that the focus of the new label will be the gospel quartet genre. The initial groups to be signed to the label are The Alabama Boys, The Golden Wings Quartet of Tupelo, MS, The Christian Angels, and Castro Coleman & Highly Favored. The label is also scheduled to release projects on The Original Messengers, and Darrell Luster & Friends featuring Evelyn Turrentine-Agee and Rev. F. C. Barnes.

The Stellar Awards First Round Ballot is now available online. Online voting closes on October 3, 2009. Your vote is important. Vote and send the link to others that like gospel music and encourage them to vote. Many of your favorite gospel quartet artists made the First Round.

Rev. James Matthews' new CD is titled I'll Make It Somehow. The project was produced by Walter Witherspoon. "Rev. Matthews started singing at the age of 14. His passion for music was passed down through his father, inspiring a singing career in Gospel Ministry." There are some great songs on this project. Contact Tate Publishing to obtain your copy of this CD.

The Echoaires� CD Transformation � Live In Memphis, TN has been submitted to The Stellar Awards.

The New Young Christian Travelers' (from Brookhaven, MS) 2009 release is titled Win The Race. This is the group's first release. They really deliver some great original songs on this CD.

Shirley Bell's first solo release is titled God Can Do Anything. What a powerful singer. This is one CD that will be difficult to put down. She does an "Old Church Medley" that is outstanding.

MALACO has signed Castro Coleman & Highly Favored. We understand that their first project for the label should be released later this month or in October.

Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC's Fall On Me has been submitted to The Stellar Awards.

Bishop Fred A. Jones & The Jones Family Singers submitted their new project entitled "The Best of The Old & New-Vol.1" of Bishop Fred A. Jones & The Jones Family Singers to The Stellar Awards. The submission was in 3 categories.

Stellar Awards� watch

We have heard from a few groups and agents that have submitted information to the Stellar Awards. Those that we are currently aware of are -

The Lighthouse Singers new release entitled " Trusting in Jesus...Live " has been submitted for six ( 6 ) different categories.
Quartet of the Year
Recorded Music Packaging of the Year
Music Video of the Year
Traditional CD of the Year
Traditional Group/Duo of the Year
Group/Duo of the Year

The Gospel Legends

Second Chapter

We understand that The Turner Brothers of Apopka, Florida, are working on a new CD. Their CD and DVD titled A Family That Prayers Together Stays Together are still popular among gospel quartet fans.

WLCN HD TV 18 is a new high definition TV station owned by the Faith Assembly of God. They specialize in original programming. Currently they are offering any touring group that perform on their concert sound stage a high quality DVD master absolutely free in exchange the rights to air the concert on TV. They will provide all sound, lighting and multitrack recording. They will even provide a live audience. The contact information - 337 Farmington Road, Summerville, S.C. 29483, telephone number 843-376-2418.

September is sure to be another grand month for Gospel Quartet Music. One of the largest programs this month will be Spirit Fest in Greenville, SC. There are some great gospel quartet groups on the program. Also, September will see the official release of CDs by Doc McKenzie & The Hi-Lites, Darrell McFadden & The Disciples and Chuck & The Guiding Lights.

Bishop Fred A. Jones & The Jones Family are scheduled to sing the National Anthem at the Houston Astro�s game on Saturday, September 5, 2009. The anthem will be sung at 5:57 PM (Central Time Zone).

Second Chapter of Miami, Florida, has a new CD titled A New Season. To get your copy contact Stonewall Jackson at 305-232-4428. Many will remember this group from the nineties. Their 1994 project, Feel The Spirit, included the song "The Train."

The Gospel Legends have been added to the 2009 Spirit Fest Concert. Other gospel quartet groups scheduled to appear are Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC�s, The Gospel Four, and The Canton Spirituals. The concert will be on Sunday, September 6, 2009, at the Carolina First Center Greenville, SC.

The Gospel Crusaders of Bellwood, IL, new CD is titled He�s All I Need. According to information from their website the CD will be released in September. We have heard the CD and it is outstanding. This is another project produced by Ray Braswell, Jr. Ray has really been busy. More and more artists are finding just what they need at Raymarkable Music. What we like about Ray�s productions is that he allows the artist to be themselves. So, you do not get �sound a likes�. Meaning, none of the artists he works with sounds like each other. Ray also has a way of drawing the best out of artists. Another producer that embodies these characteristics is Eric Shaper of Dream Reality Production.

By the way, The Dynamic Messengers are working on their freshman CD. The Anointed Mims Singers� new CD is now available from Low Rush Music. Low Rush also recently released a CD on the group called Salvation. The Yancey Brothers of Newark, Delaware, new CD is titled Get Your Praise On. Their remake of "Nobody�s Child" is sure to get a lot of attention. The New Pearly Gates of Suffolk, VA, CD titled Walking The Path is outstanding.

August should be another exciting year for Gospel Quartet music. The new CD by Doc McKenzie & The Hi-Lites is scheduled to be released at a concert in Olanta, SC, on August 8, 2009. Darrell McFadden & The Disciples' new CD is slated to be released this month at a concert in Columbia, SC. The group�s special guest for this release concert is The Fantastic Violinaires.

We want to thank all that entered the July Give-A-Way contest. We received a substantial number of entries. The essays were inspiring, encouraging and overall outstanding. Of course, for this contest there could only be 3 winners. The judges have spoken and the winners are

First - Donald McDowell
Second - Beverly Hines
Third - Virginia Davis

The winning essays will be published at Gloryland Gospel Quartet Promotions' page in the coming weeks. We congratulate the winners. And, we really appreciate all that took the time to enter the contest.

We just listened to the new CD by Robert Williams titled The Word. Many will remember Robert from his days with Willie Neal Johnson & The New Keynotes. There are ten (10) songs on this CD. This one may cause you to pull out some of this vintage CDs and LPs by the Keynotes. Robert�s voice is as strong as ever. He really delivers some great songs on this CD.

The Mighty Supremes are led by Evangelist Gayle Horton. They recently released a CD titled Saved Right Now. This 16 track CD is likely to take this group beyond their home locale, Columbus, Ohio. There are many hidden treasures among groups that are not known on the national stage. This is one of those hidden treasures.

Bad Boys Need God Too is the titled of the new CD of Ronnie R. Riles, Sr. There is a good mix of traditional and contemporary music on this CD. Also, there are two (2) songs on this project that should be popular with radio angels during the Christmas� season.

Eddie Ruth Bradford released the first single from her upcoming CD. The single is titled "Leak In This Old Building." This song may have the same impact upon listeners as did "To Close To The Mirror." Although, "Leak In This Old Building" has been recorded by many groups, Ms. Bradford�s version will surely get your attention. By the way, the full CD, titled Reflection, is scheduled to be released on July 14, 2009.

According to the liner notes, the CD In The Need Of Prayer was released by The Vintage Soul in 2007. The CD has a fresh sound that will really draw you to this group. The name of the group says a lot about their music. The guys have that down home style. They have incorporated vintage gospel quartet music into this project. You will want to get a copy of this CD.

Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC�s new CD and DVD, Fall On Me, are scheduled to be released on July 28, 2009. Gloryland Gospel is celebrating the release of the group�s new CD and DVD by sponsoring an essay contest about Lee and the guys. The winners will receive 18 CDs from MCG Records. Just go to Gloryland Gospel�s Quartet Promotions page and click on the �Win 18 Different MCG Records' CDs� link for information about the contest.

Angels of Praze of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, has a new CD that is sure to garner attention from Radio Angels across the country. The CD is titled Comforted. There are fourteen (14) songs on this CD. By the way, it is the group�s second release. Contact the group and obtain a copy of this CD, you will not be disappointed.

Rev. Price King of Louisville, Kentucky, wears many hats. He is a pastor, a recording artist, and a record executive. His label, Redeemed Records, recently released three projects. The first is the solo project by Rev. King tiled Beulah Land. The second is the sermon A Lesson In Supporting Your Pastor by Rev. Otis Kennard Bush. And, the third is a compilation CD of groups from Kentucky. It is title Rev. Price King presents. . . Give Me That Old Time Religion. Artists on this compilation are King & Company, Rev. Price, Archie Dale & The Tones of Joy, The Golden Crowns, Sincerity Singers, The Solomonaires and The Soul Seekers of Louisville, Kentucky.

There are several projects that are scheduled to be released this month; among them, Brotherly Luv, Eternal Light and Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC�s. Look out for releases from Low Rush Music, Quartet Boyz Records and Worldwide Music.

It is hard to come to grips with the fact that this year is one-half of the way over. It really does seem that it was just a few days ago we were celebrating and welcoming the New Year. The first six (6) months have been full of exciting concerts, live recordings, new releases, and even the introduction new gospel quartet groups. So, there is no reason to believe that the last six (6) months of 2009 will not be as exciting.

We just received the new CD by New Era Gospel Quartet. The group is based out of Kansas City. The CD is titled Lets Sing For Jesus. Look for more about this CD in an upcoming review.

The World Premier of the new DVD by Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC's titled Fall On Me video will take place at The Auditorium in Jackson, MS, on Tuesday, July 28, 2009, at 7:00 PM.

In gospel quartet circles when you mention Gino, Paul, Jeff, Larry, Val or Baby everyone knows you are talking about The Gospel Keynotes. Well, it is time to call these guys name again. They have gotten back together and are planning a LIVE recording for later this year. It has been a long time since theses guys have recorded together. In fact, this will probably be the first time since the passing of The Country Boy, Willie Neal Johnson, that they have all been on the same recording. Continue to check the Industry News page for the date and location of the recording.

The Legendary Clarence Fountain of The Blind Boys of Alabama will be releasing a new project. Fountain is teaming up with another giant from The Blind Boys, Sam Butler. Together they have formed a new group, Clarence Fountain, Sam Butler & the Boys. The CD titled Stepping Up & Stepping Out is scheduled to be released on August 25, 2009.

We have heard several of the songs from the soon to be released new CD by Doc McKenzie and The Hi-Lites. Fans of The Hi-Lites will not be disappointed. If you liked the CD The Answer is In The Music, you will really like the new CD. Prepare yourself as the new CD will take The Hi-Lites to another level.

Listen to "Alright" by The Concert Supremes at Gloryland Gospel�s Quartet Radio. The song is from their new CD titled My Life. The CD is scheduled to be released this month.

June has been designated Black Music Month. During this month, we encourage you to celebrate gospel quartet music by sharing the music with others. Take every opportunity to engage in a conversation about gospel quartet music. There is a rich history to this music. Do you part and share the history.

Doc McKenzie and The Hi-Lites are working on a new CD. This one is all studio and is expected to be released later this year.

Robert Williams, formerly of Willie Neal Johnson & The Gospel Keynotes, is working on a new CD. It is titled The Word and should be released this summer.

The Lighthouse Singers new CD/DVD release of " Trusting in Jesus...Live " are available in stores everywhere today.

May begins with many packing up and getting ready to go to Memphis, Tennessee, for the Live recording of Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC's, Apostle J. L. Cash & Praise, and The Gospel Legends. This recording is shaping up to be the gospel quartet music event of the year.

Building on their joint venture relationship, Humility Music Group and MCG Records have signed The Gospel Imperials of Huntsville, Alabama. These guys burst on the scene in 2006 with the CD Move Satan. Since that time, they have become very active within the gospel concert circuit. Look for their live recording to take place sometime during the fall of this year.

The Lighthouse Singers new CD and DVD are now scheduled to be released on Tuesday, May 5, 2009. The title of the project is Trusting In Jesus...LIVE.

Meltone Entertainment Group, Inc., is working on a new release from The Five Blind Boys of Mississippi. No release date has been established, however, the title of the CD is I Won't Complain. There are fourteen (14) songs on this CD.

BKS Music Group recently signed The Williams Singers of Indianapolis, Indiana, to a multi-project deal. The first release should be out by the end of this year.

For those who have not discovered the images on the Quartet Radio page, go to that page and move your mouse over the name of the group/artist and you will see their CD (or LP) cover. We began this feature with the month of April.

If you want to hear extraordinary vocals and great harmony, pick up a copy of the 4-play by The Sons of Jericho Gospel Singers. The CD is titled A Tribute To Quartet. And, what a tribute. Listen to “Must Jesus Bare The Cross Alone" on our April Quartet Radio Broadcast.

Easter is almost here. Why not take this opportunity to contact your local radio station and suggest songs by gospel quartet groups that are appropriate for Easter. Many stations may not know that there's a great deal of good gospel quartet music that would be ideal for airplay during the next two (2) weeks. So, your input may just be what is needed for them to play a song by The Golden Gate Quartet, The Harmonizing Four, The Swan Silvertones, The Bell of Joys, or The Swanee Quintet. You get the idea, many legendary groups' recordings would be great for this time of the year.

Gloryland Gospel is please to offer tickets to the Live Recording of Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC's. The recording concert will take place on May 2, 2009, at Temple of Deliverance, Memphis, TN. Also on the program will be Apostle J. L. Cash and Praise, and the exciting new group The Gospel Legends. The Gospel Legends' portion of this concert will also be recorded. So, attendees will be part of two (2) live recordings at one concert. This will be a great evening of gospel quartet music. To enter the drawing for the concert tickets, visit our Quartet Promotions' page.

From all indications, April is going to be an exciting month for gospel quartet music. There is a major celebration scheduled this month - The Birthday Celebration for Doc McKenzie. Several new CDs will make there way to the marketplace. The Golden Wings Quartet of Tupelo, MS, has a new CD - Live From Muskegon Height, MI. Dorothy Norwood's new CD is titled Fifty Years, It's Been Worth It All. Low Rush Music is working on the release of their new artist. More on that release and the name of the artist will be posted soon. The Supreme Angels' new CD, Reloaded, is now available. So, for the gospel quartet enthusiasts, this is going to be a great month.

Lee Williams and the Spiritual QC's won the Gold Cup at the Blockbuster Showdown program in Florence, South Carolina, on March 14, 2009. Other groups that were in the running for this coveted award were Doc McKenzie & The Hi-Lites, The Mighty Clouds of Joy, The Canton Spirituals, The Swanee Quintet, Darrell McFadden & The Disciples, and The Gospel Four.

Many may have noticed that Rodney Bennett has not been with Doc McKenzie and The Hi-lites during the past two (2) weeks. Being one of the significant personalities in this genre, his absence was being felt by fans of the Hi-Lites. We were pleased to see the News Release from the group about Rodney's absence, but sadden to learn of the passing of his grandmother. To read the Press Release, click Press Release.

Fans of The Christianaires will like the CD The Best of The Christianaires which has been released by Blackberry Records. This twelve (12) track compilation indeed represents the best from this group.

The CD My Brother's Keeper is actually a compilation of previously recorded songs by The Williams Brothers and their Superstar Friends. If you do not have the songs on this project in your collection, you just might want to consider purchasing this CD. It is a good way to acquire some of the best songs from the Soul Link CDs without having to purchase each CD in the series.

Glenn Stevenson of Humility Music and MCG Records have entered into a joint venture that will deliver to the marketplace a CD by one of the most exciting young gospel quartet group, The Gospel Legends. Their new project, Transition, is slated to be released on Tuesday, March 10, 2009. We have heard songs from the Transition project and it is safe to say it will be one of the best releases of 2009. The Gospel Legends will also be filming a Live Recording on May 2, 2009. Therefore, at the Live Recording Concert of Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC's you will be treated to two (2) concerts that will be available shortly thereafter on DVD.

As we enter the month of March, there is a lot of excitement in the air about the Blockbuster program scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2009, in Florence, SC. This annual event is sure to draw attendees from all over the country. The line-up consists of a virtual whose who of Gospel Quartet Music.

Sharp Records of Douglasville, Georgia, has released two compilation CDs that you will want to add to your collection. On Volume 3 (The Best Of Male Gospel 2009) there are 20 songs. They include "Jesus If You Want Me To Go" by Danny Walker and The Violinotes, "Don't Wait Until Tomorrow" by Rev. Norris Tuner, and "Jesus In Me" by Arthur Crume and The Soul Stirrers. Volume 4 (The Best of Female, Male and Choir 2009) also contains 20 songs. On this CD there are songs like "Second Change" by The Miracle Wonders, "Blow The Trumpets" by Andrea Johnson, "Mother Love" by The Supreme Stars. You will enjoy the down-home sound replicated on these CDs. The compilations just might cause you to acquire the actual full CD by each artist.

We just had the pleasure of listening to a CD by Minister Matty C. Lane & The Gospel Joylettes from the state of Florida. The project is titled Everything I Have. You will definitely want to acquiring a copy of this CD.

Congratulations to The Blind Boys of Alabama. They won a Grammy Awards for Best Traditional Gospel Album for their CD Down In New Orleans. This is the group's fifth Grammy. The group was also honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 51st Grammy Awards' program. The 51st Grammy Awards program took place on yesterday, February 8, 2009.

The Dixie Hummingbirds were inducted into the Gospel Music Association (GMA) Gospel Music Hall of Fame on February 2, 2009. Members of the Birds present for the induction cermony were Lyndon Baines Jones Carlton Lewis, William Bright and Torrey Nettles. Sundray Tucker, the daughter of deceased Inductee Ira Tucker, was also present.

Do something special for Black History Month and share gospel quartet music with others. Here are a few suggestions that may not have been on your radar, Sam Cooke With The Soul Stirrers. This is from the Specialty Profiles series. There is a great bio of the group in the liner notes. History buffs will really appreciate the information. Have you heard of Nicko Harden & The Gigantic Overland Travelers? As stated in the liner notes to their CD titled He Will May A Way, when you listen to the CD, "it makes you reminiscent of the gospel songs of yesterday." Then there is Ray Fenner. His CD is titled Singing Songs of Glory. This CD will have you thinking of the days when it was not the instruments that made the song, but the vocals and the lyrics. All of these projects have been around for many years. If they are not in your library, we encourage you to purchase them. If you have them in your library, take them out and share them with others.

*****

Quartet Boyz Records of Tyler, Texas, are gearing up for a very active 2009. They are planning to release projects on Lil' Blair and The Violinaires (March 30, 2009), The Mighty Travelers (April 13, 2009), The Concert Supremes (April 27, 2009), Chuck and The Guiding Clouds (May 11, 2009), and on the group Gifted.

Last month The Marable Twins & Company released their new project titled "...The Time Is Now." You will certainly want to have your very own copy of this project. There is a biblical message behind each song. In fact, for the release concert, they had ministers to convey a written "Word" about each song. The ministers' comments have been complied and disseminated in a 'Devotional Companion.' What a unique and significant way to ensure that the listener understands the message that is being conveyed by the group in each song.

We had the pleasure of listening to Jesus Is Real by Richard Evans of Apex, NC. There are hidden talents all over this country. And, Mr. Evans is one of those that should soon make his presence known on the national stage. He will remind many of Brother Joe May and other great soloists of that era. The label that signs this soloist will be getting a seasoned and exceptionally talented artist.

The Lighthouse Singers new CD and DVD will be released on March 24, 2009. The title of the project, which is on the Innovative Records label, is Trusting In Jesus...LIVE. If the single "Peace of Mind" is an indication of the strength of this project, the guys are going to minister to you in a way that will have you rejoicing.

MALACO is slated to release the new CD on The Supreme Angels on March 24, 2009. The CD is titled Reloaded. Members of the group are Quincy King, Sugar Hightower, Maurice Robinson, and Michael Kempson.

February will be another month full with gospel quartet programs. One of the largest will probably be the Family Reunion concert scheduled for February 14, 2009, in Albany, GA.

February is the month set aside to acknowledge Black History. As you celebrate during this month remember the contributions of the gospel quartet groups to this history. For, there is really the story of a people in the songs. Encourage everyone you know that is putting on a Black History Program to include at least one gospel quartet group in the celebration. Also, take the time to check out the many re-recorded gospel projects from the past. In our February 2009, broadcast, we give you a good starting point from which to revisit some of the great recordings from the past. There is really a history lesson in each of the songs. And, many of those messages we should not forget.

It is with much sadness that we report the passing of the legendary Rev. Claude Jeter, founder of The Swan Silvertones. He died on Tuesday, January 6, 2009, at the Daughters of Jacob Geriatric Center, Bronx, NY.

It is with much sadness that we report the passing of the Legendary Tommy Ellison of Tommy Ellison and The Singing Stars. He was indeed a Superstar. We shall keep his music alive, and his contribution to this genre ever present, here at Gloryland Gospel.

The buzz is on! The Marable Twins & Company spent long hours in the studio and have emerged with a timely, new CD project entitled, "The Time is Now!" Dwight Gordon, known as "the drive man," offers toe-tapping instrumentation featured on one of the selections, "I Know I've Been Changed."

The quartet will also release a companion devotional along with their CD featuring 12 leading pastors sharing devotionals that match the titled songs on the CD. The sophomore project for the 2008 Exclesisa Showcase winners, offers a masterful, soul-stirring blend of traditional to contemporary quartet selections. Their "Time Is Now CD Release Concert," slated for Friday, January 16, 2009 features special guests: Lee Williams & The Spiritual QC's, Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson and The Spiritual Voices, and Harvey Watkins, Jr., and The Canton Spirituals. The CD release concert opens at 7pm at Watson Grove M.B. Church 1415 Horton Street, Nashville, Tennessee.

Join Lee Williams, Bishop Darrell McFadden, and Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson in Columbia, SC on Friday, January 2, 2009. Information about this concert can be found on the front page of Gloryland Gospel.

Keith "Wonderboy" Johnson's new CD is scheduled for release on February 10, 2009. The title of the CD is Stronger Than Ever.

Quartet Central's Gospel Quartet Message Board has a new look. Check it out at Quartet Central. By the way, did you know that Quartet Central is the most active Message Board on the Internet dedicated solely to the Traditional Gospel Quartet Music? If you are not a member, join and share in the discussions.

Two Thousand Nine is here. We thank God for allowing us to see this New Year. And, it is our continued prayer that it is a blessed year for all.

Two Thousand Eight was another year of 'ups and downs' in this genre. Many saints transitioned into eternal rest last year. For instance, Mr. Ira Tucker of The Dixie Hummingbirds, Margaret Allison of Margaret Allison and The Angelic Gospel Singers, Dillard Crume of The Soul Stirrers, Michael Cook of The Mighty Clouds of Joy, Odessa Still and Chalmers "Spanky" Alfrord are just some of the individuals that were affiliated with this genre who "crossed over" in 2008.

There were many concerts featuring gospel quartet singers during 2008. If you viewed the calendar of some of the major artists of the genre during 2008, you noticed that they wer singing somewhere every weekend. And, there were countless anniversaries, banquets, and gathering featuring local and regional gospel quartet singers.

Many gospel quartet groups released new CDs, and in some instances DVDs, last year. Just take a look at Gloryland Gospel's Top 20 Chart. Major labels, small labels and independents ensured that there was a continuous supply of new gospel quartet music last year.

Overall, 2008 was a good year for gospel quartet music. And, we look for greater and better things to come from this genre during 2009.

HAPPY NEW YEAR. IT IS OUR PRAYER THAT YOU ARE SHOWERED WITH BLESSINGS UPON BLESSINGS THROUGHOUT THIS YEAR.

To listen, click on the link www.MalacoGospelRadio.com

View Our Guestbook Sign Our Guestbook

Gloryland Gospel

View Our Guestbook
Sign Our Guestbook