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Gaither Music Artists Honored with Nine GMA Dove Award Nominations

Friday, 20 Feb 2009 23:17:38 00:00:00

On Friday, February 20, the Gospel Music Association released this year's nominees for the Christian music industry's highest honor, the Dove Awards. Gaither Music Group congratulates the following 2009 nominees from our roster of artists who garnered a total of nine (9) GMA Dove Award nominations this year! Congratulations to these talented artists, and many thanks to everyone behind the scenes who helped create musical projects that are recognized among the other excellent nominees!

David Phelps and Ernie Haase were both nominated in the category of Male Vocalist of the Year, and Ernie Haase & Signature Sound received a nomination for Group of the Year.

In the category of Southern Gospel Recorded Song, a nomination went to "Reason Enough" (from the Ernie Haase & Signature Sound CD, Dream On) released by Gaither Music Group. (Songwriters: Ernie Haase, Joel Lindsey, Wayne Haun.)

"Jesus And John Wayne" received a nomination in the category of Country Recorded Song of the Year, recorded on the GRAMMY winning CD, Lovin' Life by the Gaither Vocal Band. (Songwriters: Gloria Gaither, William J. Gaither, Doug Johnson, Kim Williams, Benjamin Gaither.)

Lovin' Life by the Gaither Vocal Band was nominated for Southern Gospel Album of the Year. (Producers: Bill Gaither, Guy Penrod, Marshall Hall, Wes Hampton.)

A Long Form Video nomination went to Country Bluegrass Homecoming Volume One DVD (Doug Stuckey, Director and Bill Gaither, Producer.) And the DVD's accompanying audio release received a nomination for Special Event Album. Artists featured in the DVD and audio release of Country Bluegrass Homecoming Volume One include: the Gaither Vocal Band, Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives, The Grascals, Buddy Greene, The Isaacs, Gordon Mote, Ralph Stanley & The Clinch Mountain Boys, The Booth Brothers, George Jones, Wesley Pritchard, Reggie & Ladye Love Smith, Brittany Allen, Jeff & Sheri Easter, Charlotte Ritchie, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, Jimmy Fortune, Dailey & Vincent, Jason Crabb, Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Cherryholmes, Lisa Daggs-Charette, Vince Gill, Sonya Isaacs, Becky Isaacs Bowman.

Christmas Gaither Vocal Band Style by the Gaither Vocal Band was nominated in the category of Christmas Album. (Producer: Russell Mauldin.)

Winners will be announced at the 40th Annual GMA Dove Awards on April 23, 2009 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Dove Award Ceremony will be broadcast live nationwide on the Gospel Music Channel from 8-10 p.m. (ET/PT) on Thursday, April 23, 2009.

Visit www.gospelmusic.org for the complete list of 2009 Dove Award nominees in every category!

Winners will be announced at the 40th Annual GMA Dove Awards on April 23, 2009 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Join the new, free Gaither.com Community now!

Thursday, 19 Feb 2009 08:36:56 00:00:00

This is a thrilling time in the life of the Gaither family, including an exciting new Gaither Vocal Band line-up, a new GRAMMY™ Award, now three weeks at the top of the Billboard Magazine Music Video chart... and we are launching a brand new and improved Gaither.com!

As part of our on-going efforts to create an atmosphere where your favorite artists can be part of your world through online interaction, we are now launching a brand new FREE Gaither online community!

The new Gaither Community is now opening its doors! The community site launch is Phase 1 in a total site relaunch. A free online community area is the place where you can create your own page, blog, post your favorite photos and songs, share information about your favorite music and keep in touch with friends, artists and others who love great music. The rest of the new site (including a new online store, fresh content and new member benefits) will launch on March 2.

Bill Gaither will be blogging! So don't miss the chance to see what is going on in his world.

Click here now to join the Gaither Community now!

Sign up for free, then invite all your friends and family to join you here! This opportunity to interact together is now open to the public, so members who once paid for this benefit will now have new and valuable benefits on the new site! To begin our incredible ride in this season of excitement and change, enjoy the following glimpse into the first public performance of the complete, five-member Gaither Vocal Band in Orlando, Florida, this past weekend. We bring you... your new Gaither Vocal Band!

Lynda Randle's New DVD Release, I'm Free, Now On Presale

Wednesday, 18 Feb 2009 00:46:30 00:00:00

The first 500 preorders will be autographed by Lynda Randle! More details and a video clip available here...In this new DVD compilation, Lynda Randle...I'm Free, you'll enjoy some of our favorite moments with Lynda on the Homecoming Stage and get a chance to hear Lynda share with Gloria Gaither about some new exciting ministries that are opening up for her and her desire to be a woman after God's Own Heart.

The CD, I'm Free, brings together the songs audiences around the world most love to hear Lynda Randle sing. Her powerful voice communicates these great songs as no one else can. These are the songs that have helped Lynda in her own journey and they are sure to bring joy, comfort and hope to countless others through her passionate delivery and unique gift for communication.

Watch a portion of the video here and get a glimpse of what's inside this brand new release featuring-never-before seen interviews and performances by Lynda Randle!

ORDER LYNDA RANDLE: I'M FREE here!

Details on Gaither.com's Exciting Upcoming Changes

Tuesday, 17 Feb 2009 10:00:42 00:00:00

As announced last week, Gaither.com will undergo a major overhaul during the coming weeks. Here are a few answers to questions you may have about the changes to come.

In the interest of creating a more user-friendly and dynamic online environment for our friends and fellow-artists, Gaither.com is about to experience a major redesign. Our staff is fully dedicated to the transition at this time so we are providing the following details to help you anticipate the incredible things in store for our online community! We do thank you in advance for your support and flexibility as we work toward making Gaither.com a powerful, more effective resource for everyone!

Here is an overview that will help you prepare for the upcoming relaunch of Gaither.com...

1. On Wednesday, February 18, we will launch a brand new online community that will not require a paid Gaither.com membership! Using the "ning" social networking platform, the Gaither.com Community will be an open forum with all kinds of free content where you can invite your friends and family to interact with you from anywhere in the world where there is internet access! Your current Gaither.com membership log-in information will not be needed in this new community and you will simply set up a free account using whatever username and password you desire. (Please note that the current acceptable use policy will still be enforced, as the forum will continue to maintain a safe, positive environment for people from all backgrounds and cultures to interact.) 2. Bill Gaither is starting a blog! We are helping him with the computer part so he can, for the first time ever, let us into that mind of his and allow us to learn from his 70-plus years of leadership experience in the field of gospel music through blog updates in the new Gaither community! Other artists, staff members and friends of the Gaither family of artists will be invited and encouraged to join the community as well. 3. After March 2, when you log onto www.gaither.com, you will discover an entirely new environment! With updated features, a fresh new look, and many incredible new benefits for members, Gaither.com will be easier than ever to navigate. The site will consist of: a membership area where members can redeem their benefits, as well as a dynamic new online store and the free Gaither.com Community where artist blogs, free content and interaction can occur.

4. Your current Gaither.com membership log-in information will still be valid at the new Gaither.com, but every existing Gaither.com member will be required to re-enter your credit card information and update your billing and shipping information on or before your next membership renewal. Re-entering your card number individually is a legal requirement, enforced for customers' protection whenever any website changes service providers.

5. There will be many places for videos, photos and other content in the new community site. Over the coming months Gaither.com's video, audio and photo archives will move to the new site community site as we begin to integrate content into the appropriate areas.

6. Message board entries and blogs will not automatically transfer to the new community. Members wishing to save certain posts and re-enter them in the new community, please do so before February 27 or they will be irretrievable.

7. The benefits of Gaither.com Membership are increasing! Beginning March 2, the new list of member benefits will include:

• Special introductory offer valid March 15 through April 15 to join, renew or bank a Gaither.com membersihp and receive as an added benefit an exclusive Gaither.com flash drive preloaded with fifty downloadable Homecoming songs! Yes 50!
• Free DVD with annual membership
• 10.00 off "Happy Birthday" coupon - good during your birthday month
• 5.00 off your next online purchase coupons, 4 total per year (one each quarter)
• Presale access to Gaither Vocal Band and Homecoming concert tickets
• 6.95 credit for shipping on all online orders
• 100.00 discount on the Alaskan Homecoming Cruise during designated promotional periods

This list of benefits for annual membership, as of March 2, will be valued at more than 250 dollars in savings for members who utilize all these opportunities.

8. Our team, in cooperation with our promoter, is actively working on making the presale ticket program better than ever by cracking down on ticket brokers who have previously used Gaither.com memberships to hoard rows of premium seats to resell at higher prices. We are working hard to increase public awareness about price gouging and we're urging online customers to purchase tickets only through Gaither.com, where we can assure you will not fall victim to scams and scalpers.
We extend our thanks to everyone at Ultrastar Entertainment for eight incredible years as the host company for Gaither.com. Thanks to Ultrastar's ground-breaking efforts at the launch of Gaither.com (formerly Gaithernet.com), we are now able to house the website locally and utilize our gifted team of personnel at Gaither Music Company. Content Director, Emily Sutherland, will remain an active part of the Gaither.com Team and we all look forward to serving you for the years to come.

Our next communication will be an invitation to join the brand new Gaither.com community. Invitations will be sent this week, once the community section of the site is ready to go live! Until then, we hope you will stick around for these very exciting days in the life of the Gaither family of artists and friends!

Blessings,

The Gaither.com Team

Debut of Five-Member Gaither Vocal Band Electrifies Orlando's Amway Arena on Valentine's Night

Sunday, 15 Feb 2009 01:29:04 00:00:00

NEW PHOTO ALBUM ADDED!
The moment before the lights came up...
the GVB stood in the darkness and began singing to an ecstatic audience of Floridians.

Read on for details about this historic night.. and see online concert photos here that capture this experience in pictures their debut night as a five-man Gaither Vocal Band!

On Valentine's night, February 14, love was most certainly in the air at Orlando's Amway Arena during the first public appearance of the entire five-member Gaither Vocal Band since the all-star line-up was announced on January 13. From the moment Bill Gaither, Wes Hampton, Michael English, David Phelps and Mark Lowry set foot onto the stage, there was a swell of crowd enthusiasm that was almost visibly blanketing the men as they delivered one power-packed surprise after the next. From GVB standards like Alpha & Omega, Satisfied, My Temporary Home, Lord Feed Your Children, Mary, Did You Know, and Let Freedom Ring (among others), to surprises like the classical aria performed by David Phelps in Italian, the audience was literally hanging on every note, often standing in celebration, cheering not only between songs... but throughout them.

It is difficult to put into words the energy and emotion that underscored the unspoken theme of the evening... the theme of redemption. And that theme was communicated both through songs, like the new favorite Wes sings, There's Always A Place At The Table... and through stories. Michael English shared briefly his own story of coming back to the "table" after a time of wandering... Mark Lowry, clearly moved, revealed that this night was a dream come true for him. He had hoped and prayed for many years to sing with Michael English again... and we watched that dream become a reality.

David Phelp's lead on These Are They was another highlight, as was the group's stunning and harmonic delivery of At the Cross... a moment which could arguably be among the most sacred moments in Vocal Band history.

Former Vocal Band member, Russ Taff, had pulled a chair up to a spot in front of the stage where he was completely overcome with this occasion... this celebration of healing and redemption represented by this group of men singing these songs. It is difficult to say who was more excited... the audience, the Vocal Band, or Russ Taff.

Conversations filled the arena and flowed into the streets after the concert, and there seemed to be an overwhelming and universal sense of wonder and enthusiasm about just how special this night and this group turned out to be.

Look for more photos of this historic occasion in Gaither Vocal Band history throughout the week.

Gaither.com Is Getting An Overhaul!

Thursday, 12 Feb 2009 10:36:02 00:00:00

It is an exciting time in the life of Gaither Music, with our brand new five-member Gaither Vocal Band and a sparkly new Grammy Award... we couldn't be more thrilled to announce that very soon we will also be unveiling a beautiful new Gaither.com! Be on the lookout for the exciting changes you can expect during the next month in Homecoming News! In short, it will be simpler than ever to navigate while also offering features and navigation we've been dreaming of for years. Now it's finally becoming a reality!

Next week everyone who receives Gaither.com newsletters will receive an invitation to a brand new Gaither Community... and community access will be FREE from now on! Bill Gaither will have a blog there, plus you will be able to customize your own page to share with your friends, family and other music fans.

Our staff is also busily working on a new online store, as well, which will officially launch on March 2. The new store will be easier than ever to use, and more interactive and intuitive than ever!

Member benefits are also getting an upgrade! There will more benefits than ever, raising the value of membership to more than twice what you pay! Stay tuned for more details on Gaither.com membership benefits!

GVB Reunion DVDs Top Billboard Charts for Second Consecutive Week

Thursday, 12 Feb 2009 09:23:00 00:00:00

"These are exciting days for the Gaither Vocal Band!" Bill Gaither stated after the Gaither Vocal Band's Grammy win this past Sunday night. Now the excitement continues and Gaither Music Group has more good news!

Billboard Magazine's music video chart once again features The Gaither Vocal Band Reunion, Volume 1 and Volume 2 DVDs in the No. 1 and No. 2 spots for the second consecutive week. These charts are based on sound scan sales numbers reported by retail outlets across all genres of music.

"The credit really goes to the talented men with whom I've had the privilege of working over the years," Gaither states of the group's recent successes, adding, "Awards and charts have never been our primary focus, but if those things translate into lives that are being moved by music with a positive message, then we have done our job."

The Gaither Vocal Band Reunion DVDs are distributed through EMI-CMG and available to order online here.

The Gaither Vocal Band Receives Early Valentines Courtesy Of The Recording Academy and Billboard Charts

Monday, 09 Feb 2009 17:14:30 00:00:00
Press Release for Immediate Release

Nashville, TN (2-9-09) - Members of the Gaither Vocal Band received an early valentine from the Recording Academy last night when their latest studio project, Lovin' Life, garnered a prestigious Grammy Award for Best Southern, Country, Bluegrass Gospel Album during the 51st annual awards ceremony. This is the eighth win overall for the Gaither Vocal Band and its predecessor, the Bill Gaither Trio. Bill and Gloria Gaither have also won Grammy Awards for the Homecoming series of videos and received the President's Merit Award in 2005. The CD was produced by all four members of the Vocal Band, and marks the first win for members Guy Penrod, Wes Hampton and Marshall Hall.

The Grammy win capped a week that saw the venerable group virtually dominate several Billboard charts. The Gaither Vocal Band Reunion, Volume 1 and Gaither Vocal Band Reunion, Volume 2 CDs debuted in the top two positions on Billboard's Contemporary Christian album chart, marking not only the Gaither Vocal Band's first No. 1 on the Christian album chart, but also their first No. 1 debut on that chart as well. The DVDs of the same title debuted in the No. 1 and No. 2 positions on the Music Video charts as well, ranking ahead of long-form music videos by such acclaimed artists as Il Divo, AC/DC, the Eagles and the Temptations. The CDs also garnered both the No. 1 and No. 2 positions on the Southern Gospel album charts. The impressive sales of both CDs earned them the #53 and #60 positions on Billboard's Top 200 representing all genres of music.

"The honor of this Grammy Award makes a wonderful statement that, after more than 25 years together, the Gaither Vocal Band is still making the kind of music that stands out in an industry so full of great talent," Bill Gaither responded. "These are very exciting days for the Gaither Vocal Band and this win is extremely gratifying."

Contact: Judi Turner/ turnerco@bellsouth.net/ 615-356-9115

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Gaither Vocal Band Wins a 2009 Grammy for Lovin' Life!

Sunday, 08 Feb 2009 18:01:22 00:00:00
At the 51st GRAMMY® Awards, held Sunday, Feb. 8, 2009, in Los Angeles, California, the Gaither Vocal Band received a GRAMMY ® award in the category of Best Southern, Country or Bluegrass Gospel Album for their Lovin' Life CD. Bill Gaither, the Gaither Vocal Band and the Bill Gaither Trio have now collectively received eight GRAMMY ® Awards since the first win in 1973.

Gaither Vocal Band Reunion DVDs Top Billboard Magazine, Contemporary Christian and Southern Gospel Charts

Thursday, 05 Feb 2009 11:40:42 00:00:00
Gaither Music Group Press Release by Emily Sutherland
For Immediate Release

(FEBRUARY 5, 2009 - Nashville, TN) Only days after the January 27th release of The Gaither Vocal Band Reunion DVDs, Volumes 1 and 2, this highly anticipated DVD set now occupies the Number 1 and Number 2 spots on Billboard Magazine's Music Video chart. Resting beneath them are critically acclaimed artists Il Divo, The Temptations, AC/DC and The Eagles, among others. This musical celebration brings together alumni from more than a quarter-century of Gaither Vocal Band history with songs that have paved the way to their unprecedented musical success in the field of gospel music.

The audio recordings, also titled Gaither Vocal Band Reunion, Volume 1 and Gaither Vocal Band Reunion, Volume 2, hit the top two positions on the Contemporary Christian music audio chart, marking not only the Gaither Vocal Band's first No. 1 on the Christian music audio chart, but also their first No. 1 debut on the chart as well.

The Christian music video charts also hold the newly released DVDs in the No. 1 and No. 2 positions, and the audio recordings garner both the No. 1 and No. 2 positions on southern gospel audio charts. Billboard's Top 200 listing ranked the audio recording of Gaither Vocal Band Reunion, Volume 1 at #53, while the Gaither Vocal Band Reunion, Volume 2 followed closely at #60.

"These projects were a delight to make," stated Bill Gaither. "And I can tell you there was not a dry eye in the place. It was a powerful experience to look around the studio at these men and realize that I have been privileged to sing with the most talented male vocalists in the world. And they're great people, too. Together we celebrated the past, the present... and the future of music that makes a difference in so many lives, including our own."

Hour-long versions of each 90-minute DVD aired on more than a dozen television networks across the globe beginning on the project's release week and audience response has been overwhelming as new fans are created and long-time fans are enthusiastic to celebrate their favorite combinations of the gospel music's finest male voices.

Gaither Music Group recently announced personnel changes including the return of three of the group's most-loved performers of the past decade, Mark Lowry, David Phelps, Michael English, who will join existing members Wes Hampton and founder, Bill Gaither, to create a five-man ensemble. The Gaither Vocal Band is currently touring across the U.S. and Canada, with more dates to be announced soon for Fall 2009 at www.gaither.com.

The Gaither Vocal Band is currently nominated for a GRAMMY ® award in the category of Best Southern, Country or Bluegrass Gospel Album for their Lovin' Life CD. Bill Gaither, the Gaither Vocal Band and the Bill Gaither Trio have collectively received seven GRAMMY ® Awards since the first win in 1973.

The Gaither Vocal Band Reunion, Volume 1 and Gaither Vocal Band Reunion, Volume 2 DVDs and CDs are distributed through EMI-CMG and are available here at www.gaither.com.

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Media contact: Emily Sutherland (esutherland@gaithermusic.com)

Photos and Feedback From the Gaither Vocal Band's First Concert of 2009

Thursday, 05 Feb 2009 03:38:53 00:00:00

David Phelps shares how he is feeling about the changes in the group... Plus, enjoy a new photo album from the GVB's first 2009 concert in Huntsville!

Since the January 13 announcement of the newly reorganized Gaither Vocal Band, fans across the globe have been anticipating the first-ever opportunity to hear the group's new sound. On January 29, little more than two weeks after the news became final, an all-star Gaither Vocal Band stepped onto the stage in Huntsville, Alabama, for the first Gaither Vocal Band performance of 2009. Although Mark Lowry was unable to be there this first weekend due to a previously scheduled solo engagement, David Phelps, Wes Hampton, Michael English and Bill Gaither DELIVERED! Fans, fellow-artists and the Vocal Band members themselves have reacted with overwhelming enthusiasm about the spirit, sound, and rich legacy of this particular group of men.

David Phelps had this to say after their first weekend on the road together... "I get to sing next to some of the greatest communicators that have ever graced a stage in Gospel Music...let me correct that...in any genre of music. I have the privilege of pouring out my musical best each night with a line-up of artists that constantly raise the bar of excellence. I get to add my part to a chord of Grammy and Dove Award winners, Billboard Chart toppers, and television icons. But what I think has impressed me most in the short time we've been together is that we are dads. Friends. Sons. Husbands. It seems to be what makes the songs sweeter. This band is made up of souls that have weathered storms, spirits that have overcome, and hearts that truly beat to inspire others with the tales of their journey so far."

View the Huntsville photo album here. And many thanks to Eddy Houk, a member of our tech crew, for sharing these photos with us!

Customer Review from Amazon.com on the Gaither Vocal Band Reunion DVDs

Tuesday, 03 Feb 2009 11:46:05 00:00:00

Enjoy this customer review, written by Betsy A. Heimbuch, on Amazon.com!

I was one of those privileged to be able to receive this dvd before the release date. For months I had anticipated the Gaither Vocal Band reunion wondering if it would be as good as press releases advertised. I was not disappointed. It is more than just good - it is great.

Bill Gaither takes unique varieties of voices that, when blended, simply work. You will enjoy power packed harmonies, countless stories and great performances. The reunion included Gary McSpadden, Steve Green, Lee Young, Larnelle Harris, Jim Murray, Jon Mohr, Michael English, Buddy Mullins, Mark Lowry, David Phelps, Russ Taff, Guy Penrod, Marshall Hall and Wes Hampton. Each song was sung by a different group giving the listener a chance to hear all the participants.

A sample listing of the songs with performers are:

"Dream On" - Larnelle Harris, Jon Mohr, Bill Gaither, Gary McSpadden.

"I'll Meet You in the Morning" - Jim Murray, Michael English, Mark Lowry

"O Love that will Not Let Me Go" - David Phelps, Bill Gaither, Marshall Hall, Guy Penrod. (arranged by David Phelps).

"The Love of God" - David Phelps, Larnelle Harris, Wes Hampton, Guy Penrod, Marshall Hall, Bill Giather (Folks there are THREE tenors on this song - sends you straight to heaven.)

"When I Cry" - Marshall Hall, Guy Penrod, Wes Hampton

"I Walked Today Where Jesus Walks" - Larnelle Harris, Michael English Gary McSpadden, Bill Gaither

"Find Us Faithful" - Steve Green (For those of you who are fans of Steve you will not be disappointed)

"I'm Free" - Buddy Mullins, Wes Hampton, Bill Gaither, Mark Lowry, Michael English

"Make It Real" - Mark Lowry, Guy Penrod, David Phelps, Bill Gaither

"Mary Did You Know" - Mark Lowry and others.

and many more.

Your heart will rejoice, your soul will be blessed, you will forget your problems, and you will have pure joy!!! Truly.

ENJOY!!!

Thanks for your kind words, Betsy! Those who haven't yet ordered your copy of the GVB Reunion DVDs can order it here!

Experience This Weekend's Concert in Dothan, Alabama, Through The Eyes of A True Fan

Saturday, 31 Jan 2009 22:26:36 00:00:00

Photos and details here...Gaither.com is forever grateful to our friend and fan, who happens to be a GVB family member, Mark Means, who attended the Gaither Vocal Band's Friday night concert in Dothan and reported on it for all of you who haven't yet heard them this year! He also took a few photos of the concert which you'll see below. Many thanks to Mark, for capturing the experience for those who couldn't be there in person!

Friday afternoon

Hi, Mark Means here. You've never heard of me, but Emily [Sutherland] knew I was coming to one of the first concerts of the 2009 Gaither Vocal Band/Ernie Haase & Signature Sound tour, and asked me to let fans know from our point of view how tonight's concert was. Also a little disclosure, I'm Wes Hampton's father-in-law. I'm as big a fan of his cooking as I am of his music, but I especially love the way he takes such good care of my daughter and my grandsons.

At this very moment we are traveling from Birmingham to hear the new GVB and EH&SS at Dothan, Alabama. Just the anticipation, the trip in the car, and looking forward to the experience which thousands of other people will experience together, makes us "goofy". Michael English, David Phelps, Wes Hampton, and Bill Gaither will be taking us on a musical and spiritual journey like no other. Any version, configuration, or change to the GVB always has one thing in common. The message. It's always clear and always moves us as we experience life, family, love, and hope. However, anticipating what it will be like tonight, having three of the most incredible tenors in gospel music, plus Bill Gaither "anchoring" down the harmony is, well, it's a little like anticipating a feast at our favorite restaurant ever, Carraba's.

If Mark Lowry were there tonight it would be perfect. I envy those of you who will get to hear all five guys create the tightest harmonies in music later in the tour. I'll be right back in the next paragraph to tell you what the night was like. "I just feel like something good is about to happen!" (I know....I know. I can't help myself.)

Backstage...

As our little clan of grandsons and family and friends went backstage you could feel the excitement in the air. There was an expectation that God had something to say. In catering, all the artists were laughing, eating, sharing old "life-on-the road stories", and preparing for a night of opening up their souls.

The Concert...

While finding our seats Kevin is playing that smooth guitar preparing hearts for what was about to happen. As Bill started playing all the guys walked out. It started. Not just entertainment or showbiz. IT started. The feeling that we were here and God showed up to whisper the good news of hope. Signature Sound was incredible and used every square inch of the stage. Talent, spirit, and heart were poured out on us.

Soon what we were anticipating for the evening came true. Seeing the GVB walk out was like seeing four warriors ready to do battle. It was almost majestic. It was as if each man had known and experienced the war of life and was fully prepared to deliver the hope which had brought them through the battles. David's voice was commanding and yet gentle. The crowd hushed to hear his sweet high tones and passionate voice.

Michael sang "I Bowed On My Knees" which brought the crowd to their feet. He has sung it a million times I'm sure. But this time was as if time stood still. I have always loved it when an artist would share their own personal life story. Michael gave us a glimpse of his struggle and the process of victory. Wasn't a dry eye. You could sort of say, "It Feels Like Redemption". His story led the entire audience to another "place". A place of brokenness and redemption. Thank you so much, Michael, for your vulnerability and transparency.

Then Wes stepped forward and with the most gentle musical introduction, he sang, "A Place At The Table". We were all captivated by his soulful twists and turns that took you through being lost and then knowing there was a place for you to come home. The guys all backed him up and it was almost an out of body experience to see David and Michael jump in with their sweet, clean, tight harmony. Bill sat near them being blessed and moving his mouth occasionally as the words went by. You can see that he was clearly touched by the gentleness of the guys.

Then... "Let Freedom Ring"! It created a spiritual and musical explosion! The song was passed from one guy to the next with gentle power. The song was like an old familiar friend you haven't seen in a long time. You can just pick up where you left off. In fact, it was so powerful; you didn't really even know how to express yourself when it was finished. You realized there just were only a handful of artists on the planet that could pull off a song like this with this kind of heart and passion.

By no means least, but last.....Gordon Mote brought the house down. Janet Paschal balanced everything with deliberate healing of the spirit. Kevin and Rory added the spice of being real and remembering not to take things too seriously. What a meal. I strongly encourage you to try it if you have an appetite for hope.

It's 12:30 AM and we just got back to our room. I'm trying to process the evening and understand that gospel music isn't just music. It's a divine way God gets his point across to us.

Well, the spiritual meal was worth the anticipation! The frenzy and excitement of knowing we were going to experience the spiritual equivalent of a five-star dinner was everything and more than we had hoped for.

Wes Hampton reports from the GVB's concert in Huntsville, Alabama on 1/29

Friday, 30 Jan 2009 00:08:20 00:00:00
Just moments after the newly reorganized Gaither Vocal Band held their debut concert together on Thursday night in Huntsville, Alabama, Wes Hampton reported from the road...

Well, we just pulled away from the Huntsville, AL, arena after a truly wonderful night. After all the memorization he had to do during the past couple weeks, Michael was stressed out for the entire day but loosened up once the GVB/SSQ set was over.

It was inspiring to experience how warmly the crowd welcomed him back. The guy did an amazing job and it was an honor to share the stage with him, as well as David (Phelps) and Bill. We have a ways to go as far as polishing things up, but the future looks exciting. I sure am excited!

Wes then added, Several of our friends showed up, including Buddy Mullins, Russ Taff, the Booth Brothers, and Jason Crabb. Jason even came up on the second half and sang "Daystar" with Dave and me. He is such a sweetheart of a guy and was so kind. We finished the night with "I then shall live" (or so we thought). Then, after we finished, someone hollered out,"I bowed on my knees!". So Michael stood up and began singing...what a way to end the night!

Mark Lowry had a prior solo engagement and was unable to perform with the Gaither Vocal Band in Huntsville for this concert. Stay tuned for more reports from the road as the Gaither Vocal Band continues to sweep the country with fresh, new energy and a power-packed group of all-stars!

More GVB Rehearsal Photos - January 21, 2009

Thursday, 22 Jan 2009 02:59:23 00:00:00
The Gaither Vocal Band finished three busy days of rehearsals and a photo shoot Wednesday, January 21. Enjoy a great new album of photos from their Wednesday afternoon rehearsal, which included a special visit from Liam Gaither, Bill's one-year-old grandson! (Liam, stick around here, buddy, and maybe Papaw will consider a 6-man GVB just for you!)

Click here for the entire photo album of Wednesday's rehearsal...

The New Five-Member GVB Rehearses in Nashville

Tuesday, 20 Jan 2009 01:07:56 00:00:00
More photos added after Tuesday's rehearsal...

See our photo album with lots of new photos taken this week as the Gaither Vocal Band prepares for a new season! More photos here! *** The Gaither Vocal Band recently underwent a major renovation, and while the press release came as a surprise to many, the feedback from across North America has been overwhelming!

Daniel Britt of JoyFM's Morning Show stated, "Through the years of the Vocal Band and Homecoming series, Bill Gaither has proven time and time again to have a knack for assembling unique varieties of voices that simply work. This new all-star line-up is sure to marry a blend of previous generation Vocal Band members with younger Vocal Band voices, yet again creating a fresh, exciting sound that's sure to spark attention from all corners of the fan base. For those measuring the 'wow factor' and the anticipation, it's simply off the charts!"

Fans have sent in supportive emails and the enthusiasm has blown us away. A couple of our favorite quotes include the following...

"...This is my dream GVB! I've listened to the Gaithers since I was about 10 years old and am now 30 and love their music more and more each day. When I heard about the change I immediately called my best friend because I was so excited. God has great things in store for them. I know He will do great things through their music..." (Melissa Anders, Oklahoma)

And a fan club member exclaimed, "No doubt about it - I'll miss both Guy and Marshall! Good luck to them both and God's blessings. BUT HOLY SMOKES BATMAN!!!! It is going to be AWESOME having Michael, David, Mark, Wes and Bill together!!!! Ernie and the guys are going to have to get some new moves cause the GVB is going to ROCK THE HOUSE with this line up!!!! God is good - can't wait to see what He does with this combination!"

Another fan says, "I'm excited like crazy. This is the only thing Bill could have done in the wake of Guy's departure that would have kept the band on top. Imagine having to get used to yet another new singer just when I was starting to wonder how much longer the GVB could travel. Now instead we get not one, not two but THREE singers we all know and love returning to the fold. How much cooler could that be?"

But amidst all the fan excitement... nothing can compare to the excitement of the five Vocal Band members! Bill was beaming as the voices began to weave their magic today at the first rehearsal with the new group. Mark Lowry and Michael English both said at different times Monday that they hope they can sleep after the excitement their first rehearsal created in them. David was beaming and nearly giddy as harmonies were achieved that never have been possible before. And Wes was taking it all in... still in awe at being a part of this group he loved as a kid.

Throughout the week, as the group prepares for this new season together, Gaither.com will bring you photos and updates of what's happening in Nashville!

See photos taken at this week's rehearsals here.

Also read Emily Sutherland's Blog for daily updates from the studio.

Bill and Gloria Host Local Premiere of the Gaither Vocal Band Reunion DVD

Friday, 16 Jan 2009 12:00:21 00:00:00
Come to their hometown of Alexandria, Indiana, for the first showing of this January 27 release...Bill Gaither invites you to join him and Gloria for the first viewing of the brand new DVD release, The Gaither Vocal Band Reunion! Witness Vocal Band history, view some of the sets, enjoy fresh popcorn and listen as Bill shares his passion for this type of music, in the very recording studio where the videos were taped.

Saturday January 24, 2009

2 PM - 4 PM

Gaither Family Resources
Gaither Studio C
State Road 9 North
Alexandria, IN

Following the presentation Bill and Gloria will be available for autographs. Both videos and audios will be offered for purchase.

Please respond if you plan to attend by calling 1-800-520-4664.

Listen Here to Bill Gaither's January 15 Interview on Live Radio about the Gaither Vocal Band's New Direction!

Thursday, 15 Jan 2009 12:25:58 00:00:00
We've got the audio from the January 15 Morning Show on JoyFM...The response has been overwhelming across the nation to Tuesday's announcement of the new Gaither Vocal Band personnel! The world has been excited to hear from Bill Gaither with some answers to their questions as well as his thoughts on what we can expect from the new line-up... so click the link below to hear Bill's first live interview about this transition.

LISTEN TO BILL'S LIVE JANUARY 15 INTERVIEW ON JOY FM HERE!

2009 Brings Revolutionary New Direction for the Gaither Vocal Band

Tuesday, 13 Jan 2009 17:00:00 00:00:00
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1/13/09 (Alexandria, Indiana) - With mixed emotions and tremendous optimism about the future, Gaither Music Group announces major personnel changes for the Gaither Vocal Band, including the return of some of the group's best-loved alumni.

After more than 14 years as the Gaither Vocal Band's lead singer, Guy Penrod will now begin a new journey. Bill Gaither is delighted to announce today that Guy is pursuing a new direction as a solo artist. It is a bittersweet transition as Penrod will miss sharing the stage with his comrades and he will be greatly missed.

Bill Gaither states, "I am losing a lead singer, but I am not losing a friend. I am extremely grateful for the incredible contribution he has made to the Gaither Vocal Band's legacy." Guy Penrod has said in response, "My years with the Gaither Vocal Band have been among the most glorious of my life. Now, though, with the Band continuing in strength and me tackling the new challenge of a solo career, we can all serve our God even more powerfully in the days to come."

As Gaither has stated at various times of transition, "You never replace a group member... you simply find a fresh, new direction." And with that philosophy at heart, Bill Gaither has gone far beyond simply replacing his long-time lead singer. He has completely recreated the Gaither Vocal Band, now expanding the size of the group from four members to five and bringing back an all-star cast of voices from the Vocal Band's rich legacy of talent.

Effective immediately, the new roster for the five-member Gaither Vocal Band will be: Bill Gaither, David Phelps, Wes Hampton, Michael English and Mark Lowry. Mark Lowry will complete all his previously scheduled solo engagements through April 2009 and will appear with the Gaither Vocal Band at every available opportunity during this transition, beginning with the Gaither Caribbean Cruise on February 22.

Marshall Hall, who has sung with the group since 2004, will no longer serve as the group's baritone and will be missed dearly by his friends both on and off the stage. He is a talented singer and producer, as well as an experienced worship leader, who will undoubtedly enjoy a solid future building on the experience gained during his five remarkable years with the Gaither Vocal Band.

The public's overwhelming early response to the January 20th release of The Gaither Vocal Band Reunion DVD, as well as the group's 2009 Grammy nomination, has already begun what could be the group's most unforgettable season yet.

The first live concert of 2009 will take place January 29 in Huntsville, Alabama, and tickets are still available. For more 2009 concert dates visit www.gaither.com and click on the 'Tickets' banner.

Introducing... your brand new Gaither Vocal Band!

Press release by Emily Sutherland
Gaither Music Group
1/13/08

Presale for Family Fest 2010 Now In Progress...

Monday, 12 Jan 2009 17:31:53 00:00:00
We hope you are making plans to join us for Family Fest 2010, a three-day musical event in Gatlinburg, Tennesee. Family Fest 2010 will be held May 28, 29 and 30, at the Gatlinburg Convention Center and will feature renowned speaker Ravi Zacchariah. A detailed featured artist list has not yet been finalized and will be added once all artists have been confirmed.

Members of Gaither.com can purchase your 2010 Family Fest tickets beginning at 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 13, at Gaither.com Tickets or by calling 800-955-8746.

Click here for details and frequently asked questions about ordering tickets through Gaither.com.