Remembering Roy Pauley

Singing News has learned that longtime columnist Roy Pauley, age 74, passed away during the early morning hours of Saturday, August 12, 2023. Mr. Pauley, who had written for Singing News for more than four decades, had waged a courageous battle against cancer for the past several months.
More information is forthcoming.
Please keep Mr. Pauley’s wife, Amy, and the entire Pauley family in your prayers.

StowTown Records Announces Multiple 2023 GMA Dove Award Nominations

Nashville, TN (August 10, 2023) – StowTown Records is thrilled to share their multiple nominations for the 2023 Dove Awards. Label co-founder and producer, Wayne Haun, has garnered six nominations. Haun’s nominations once again include Producer of the Year, as well as four production nominations for Southern Gospel Album of the Year and one as a songwriter for a Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year nomination. StowTown artists Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Triumphant Quartet, The Perrys, The Steeles and Tiffany Coburn, along with StowTown Worship artist The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, are all nominees for the 54th annual GMA Dove Awards.

The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir’s debut StowTown Worship release, A Night of Worship, garnered three nominations. “He’s Been Faithful,” featuring TaRanda Greene and written by Carol Cymbala, received a nod for Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year. The album, co-produced by Carol Cymbala and J. Daniel Smith, is up for Inspirational Album of the Year. Its companion product for church choirs is nominated for Musical/Choral Collection of the Year. The arrangements for this collection were orchestrated by J. Daniel Smith, Chris McDonald, Jim Hammerlyand Bradley Knight.

StowTown Records saw two albums nominated for Southern Gospel Album of the Year. Hymns & Worship by Triumphant Quartet is a collection of the group’s favorite hymns and worship songs, as well as a few popular CCM songs which they enjoyed arranging for their sound. Hymns & Worship was produced by Wayne Haun, Scotty Inman and Kris Crunk. Also in the Southern Gospel Album of the Year category is John 3:16 by The Perrys. It was produced by Wayne Haun and has yielded three radio hits, including their current single, “Calvary’s Touch.”

The gifts keep coming for Ernie Haase & Signature Sound from their GRAMMY® nominated album Keeping On, which received the 2022 Dove Award for Southern Gospel Album of the Year. The song, “I Know My Savior Cares,”written by Ernie Haase, Wayne Haun and Joel Lindsey, received a 2023 nomination for Southern Gospel Song of the Year. StowTown artist The Steelesalso received a nomination in this category for their song “A Hundred Different Altars.” Written by Brad Steele, Joel Lindsey and Brad Guldemond, “A Hundred Different Altars” is on their album Be The Reason and spent several weeks in the top ten on the Power50 Weekly Music Chart in early 2023.

Tiffany Coburn’s song “Matchless,” featuring CCM artist Point Of Grace, garnered a nomination for Bluegrass/Country/Roots Recorded Song of the Year. “Matchless” was written by Jeff Bumgardner and Val Dacus and was released digitally with a roots/country mix in January 2023.

StowTown Records CEO and President Landon Beene, shares, “Following the 2022 launch of StowTown Worship, we are pleased to have nominations across multiple genres of Gospel Music, including the Inspirational, Musical/Choral Collection, Southern Gospel, Bluegrass/Country/Roots and Producer categories. We never take these nominations lightly as they are a testament to the hard work of our artists, label team and distributor, Provident/Sony. It is an honor to be recognized in this way among our industry peers. As always, it is an even greater honor to carry the Gospel in song to people around the world.”

The 54th GMA Dove Awards show will take place live and in-person at the Allen Arena at Nashville’s Lipscomb University on October 17, 2023, and will be televised exclusively on Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) on October 20, 2023.

Remembering Anita Pitts

Remembering Anita Pitts
On August 4, 2023, our hearts were shattered as we unexpectedly said goodbye to a beloved soul, Anita Ballard Pitts. She passed away peacefully in her sleep, leaving behind a void that can never be filled. Though her departure from this world was sudden, her impact on the lives she touched will forever be remembered with fondness and gratitude.
Anita was the cherished wife of Paul Pitts, and their love story was one of unwavering devotion and companionship.
As a mother, Anita poured her heart and soul into nurturing her three children: Christopher W. Pitts, Jeffrey M. Pitts, and Robyn Pitts Smith. She was a pillar of strength and a constant source of love and support as they navigated life’s challenges.
Anita’s love extended to her six grandchildren: David Paul Pitts, William Simmons, Elijah Smith, Selah Smith, Grace Lee, and Theodore Pitts. Her pride in their accomplishments knew no bounds, and she relished every moment spent with them, creating treasured memories that will forever be held close.
In the presence of her two great-grandchildren, Willow Pitts and Eve Lee, Anita found joy in the innocence and wonder of youth. She delighted in their laughter and playful spirits, finding happiness in their every embrace.
Born in Clanton, Alabama, Anita’s journey led her to make her home in Duncan, South Carolina. She lived a life dedicated to the Lord and her family. As a compassionate Registered Nurse, she cared for others with a selflessness that left a lasting impact on those she tended to. Her nurturing spirit also found expression as a Minister of Music, using her melodious voice and musical talents to lead others in worship and praise. Her gift for songwriting and musicianship spread the joy of gospel music far and wide, touching the hearts of countless individuals across the globe.
Anita’s involvement in the Global Promotions of gospel music allowed her to touch the lives of people from around the world.
A devoted member of Praise Cathedral Church in Greer, South Carolina, Anita’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She found solace and strength in her relationship with God, and her commitment to her faith was evident in all aspects of her life.
Anita was blessed with a loving family that provided her with unwavering support and guidance. Her parents, Rev. David A. Ballard and Ida Ballard Burnette along with her parents in love Rev. Buell A. Pitts and Paula W. Pitts and her siblings Sheila Diane Ballard and Joseph Duane Ballard, shared a bond that transcended time and distance.
In this time of grief and loss, let us find comfort in the beautiful memories we hold dear and the knowledge that Anita’s spirit lives on in the hearts of all those she loved. A memorial service to celebrate her life and honor her memory will be held at Praise Cathedral Church of God on August 15, 2023. A receiving of friends and family will begin at 5:00pm and a Celebration of Life will be at 6:00pm. Everyone is welcome to come celebrate Anita’s life with our family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Selah Grey Foundation (www.SelahGrey.com) in Anita’s memory. This foundation is founded on her granddaughter, Selah Smith, and continues Anita’s legacy of compassion and service to others.
As we grieve together, let us remember the words: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). May we find strength and solace in knowing that Anita now rests in eternal peace, forever embraced in the loving arms of her Heavenly Father.
With much love,
The family of Anita Pitts

SGMA Announces Third Hall Of Fame Inductee

Danny Funderburk is our 3rd inductee announced into the 2023 Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame..!! Congratulations Danny
Official Induction Ceremony is Tuesday, September 26th 1:00pm during NQC at the LeConte Convention Center in Pigeon Forge, TN Natqc.com

SGMA Announces Second Hall Of Fame Inductee For 2023

Norman Holland is the 2nd inductee announced into the 2023 Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame!Congratulations to Norman in heaven and his family.

Here’s a statement from Norman’s sister, Edith Holland Brown: “I would like to thank everyone who took a chance and believed in my brother, Norman Holland. He so loved working with his Christian artists. Love you forever!!!”

Also, here’s a statement from SGMA President Arthur Rice: “Norman was loved by anyone that worked with him. All of Southern Gospel Music misses him dearly.”

The Official Induction Ceremony is Tuesday, September 26, 1:00pm during NQC at the LeConte Convention Center in Pigeon Forge, TN. (Natqc.com)

Triumphant Quartet Announces New Member

Nashville, TN (August 3, 2023) – Longtime, multi-award winning StowTown Records recording artist, Triumphant Quartet, is pleased to announce the addition of vocalist Sean Barber to the group. Sean plans to relocate with his wife to the beautiful mountains of East Tennessee. They are looking forward to being a part of the Triumphant Quartet family.

Sean shares, “I cannot put into words how excited I am about this opportunity. I have great respect for Triumphant and the rich legacy they have built over the last 22 years. My wife, Tanessa, and I are truly honored to be a part of the Triumphant family and look forward to what God has in store.” Triumphant Quartet co-founder, Eric Bennett, echoed Sean’s enthusiasm, “To everything there is a season (Ecclesiastes 3:1), and this is a new season for Triumphant as we welcome Sean to the group. He is an incredible talent, and we look forward to how the Lord is going to use him and the exciting things He has in store for our ministry as we move forward.”

For more information about Triumphant Quartet, go to www.triumphantquartet.com. Their current project, Hymns & Worship, is available at retail and digital outlets worldwide via Provident/Sony.

The Guardians Team With Harper Agency

Goodlettesville, TN – One of Christian’s music’s leading booking agencies, The Harper Agency has announced the signing of popular quartet, The Guardians to the company’s artist roster. The talented vocal group has enjoyed an exciting career in the Gospel music genre, and Ed Harper, President of The Harper Agency, says he is extremely happy to have the opportunity to represent The Guardians.

The rich, musical heritage of The Guardians dates back to the late 1980s; however, over the past decade, under the direction of founding member, Dean Hickman, The Guardians have enjoyed much success, including multiple Dove Award nominations from the Gospel Music Association, as well as Fan Award nominations from subscribers of The Singing News Magazine and several #1 hit singles. Present group members, John Darin Rowsey, Pat Barker, Scott Mullins and Paul Lancaster, collectively share the message of the Gospel through song night after night and are dedicated in their commitment to glorify Christ wherever the opportunity is presented.

“Our agency has known group owner and manager Dean Hickman for several years,” Ed Harper, President of The Harper Agency shares. “He continues to be actively involved in many aspects of our industry. Jeff and I have known John, Pat and Paul personally for many years. Each were previously vocalists with other artists our agency represents. They, along with their baritone singer Scott Mullins, present great four-part harmony that gospel fans love and appreciate.”

Just as the Harper Agency is delighted to have the opportunity to represent The Guardians, The Guardians are honored and thrilled to be represented by the Harper Agency. “I’ve had the privilege of having a relationship with the Harper Agency for over 30 years,” John Darin Rowsey states. “ I’ve seen their work both from the side of the concert promoter, as my wife and I promoted concerts for a number of years, and from the artist side when I traveled with Karen Peck and New River.  It was clear to me they truly cared about both and that kind of integrity always impressed me. I look forward to working with them, and The Guardians are very excited to be represented by Ed and Jeff Harper and their wonderful staff.”

ERNIE HAASE & SIGNATURE SOUND PRESENT LIVE IN AMSTERDAM: A 20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

NASHVILLE, Tenn.—Commemorating two decades of music and ministry, multi-GRAMMY® nominated Gospel leaders Ernie Haase & Signature Sound are set to bow Live in Amsterdam: A 20th Anniversary Celebration August 11, 2023. Produced by 39-time Dove Award-winner Wayne Haun and released by StowTown Records—the genre-leading label co-founded by Haase and Haun—the project was recorded before a capacity crowd at Rafaël Evangelism Center in Amsterdam earlier this year.

“Overture,” a stirring instrumental medley of Ernie Haase & Signature Sound classics, sets the stage for a milestone recording featuring 10 fan favorites spanning the group’s iconic career. “They’ve had more hits over the last 20 years than we could possibly include on one project, so the overture enabled us to add portions of a few more #1 singles like ‘I Thirst,’ ‘That’s Why,’ and ‘The Old Landmark,’” shares Haun, who arranged and orchestrated the piece. “When the overture started in Amsterdam, I was amazed at how the audience began singing along. It’s completely humbling to realize the global impact these songs have had.”

From “Oh, What A Savior,” which Haase has performed for more than 30 years with both Signature Sound and the Cathedral Quartet; to “Get Away Jordan,” Ernie Haase & Signature Sound’s breakthrough hit, Live in Amsterdam: A 20th Anniversary Celebration also features new arrangements of such group standards as “Reason Enough,” “I Know My Savior Cares,” and the July 21st digital single “Until We Fly Away,” among others.

“Our most memorable moments are always meeting with people after shows and hearing how the songs have helped them in their faith journey,” Haase shares. “‘Jesus Changed Everything’ and ‘Sometimes I Wonder’ were songs that God greatly used the night we recorded in Amsterdam. While showing us her ‘Jesus Changed Everything’ tattoo, a lady said to us in broken English, ‘This song saved me from a life of deep depression.’ Another family shared that their young daughter was recently struck and killed by a car in her neighborhood. They told us how the song ‘Sometimes I Wonder’ is giving them faith and hope, and they’re even asking God for the opportunity to witness to the driver.”

“All of these songs have been very, very impactful to the ministry of Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, so we hope our listeners will love the new arrangements of songs they’ve welcomed into their lives through the years,” he adds. “We also hope young listeners will hear a work of ‘heart’ and art that encourages them to pursue their dreams as we did when we embarked on this journey 20 years ago. Most of all, we want people to listen to these songs and the stories behind them and be inspired to share their redemption story with others. In the end, we overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony (Revelation 12:11). This recording is our testimony of God’s amazing grace in and through Ernie Haase & Signature Sound.”

 

For further information: erniehaase.comstowtownrecords.com or turningpointpr.com
Follow Ernie Haase & Signature Sound on FacebookInstagram and YouTube

 

Scotty Inman Launches Solo Ministry

Nashville, TN (July 8, 2023) – To everything there is a season. For the past two decades, Scotty Inman has been blessed with the privilege of traveling as part of the award-winning group, Triumphant Quartet. This season has brought much joy and fulfillment, both from a professional standpoint, as well as personally. “Over half my life has been spent with the greatest men I know. They say you are who you hang around, and I hit the jackpot with Triumphant,” shares Scotty Inman. “Men of integrity, consistency and class… not just in music, but in life itself.”
From the group’s beginnings in 2003, when four outstanding vocalists graced the stage in Pigeon Forge, TN for the first time together, to making the decision to tour the country in 2008, Triumphant has continued time and again to raise the bar of producing music with the highest excellence, all while remaining steadfast in their core values. That dedication, along with the grace of God, has yielded GRAMMY nominations, a Dove Award, numerous fan awards and number one songs at radio.
However, over the last few years, Scotty Inman has felt God leading him into a new season of life. A decision such as this is never simple or easy to make, especially when it entails leaving a group that is family; but at this time, it is necessary. Moving into 2024 and beyond, Scotty will shift his focus to recording and traveling as a solo artist, which will, in turn, allow much needed flexibility in his schedule.
“This is not a ‘going home to spend more time with my family’ type of announcement,” explains Scotty. “Mainly because that implies that those of us who travel for a living do not spend time with our families, which is not true. However, what I do know is that I have a deep desire to be even more involved in my kids’ lives at these crucial ages. They are growing up quickly, and I want to be at as many ballgames and recitals as I can.”
Scotty continues, “As some of you know, my wife and I recently helped plant a church along with a pastor friend and small group of couples. At that church, I serve as the co-worship leader, as well as a deacon. Serving more frequently at my home church and being in attendance to fulfill my duties are a few things that have been laid on my heart in a huge way.”
While Scotty looks forward to making the most of his time with his family, this does not mean that music will take a backseat. “I’m not done singing, and in many ways, I feel as though I’ve only just begun! By traveling as a soloist, I’ll be able to pursue the calling that the Lord has placed on my life, but with a less demanding schedule. I plan on seeing everyone down the road sooner rather than later!”
Eric Bennett conveys the group’s sincere gratitude, “We will forever be grateful for Scotty’s time and devotion to Triumphant. His creativity, passion and love for the Gospel has helped create what Triumphant is today.” Although things may change, remnants of Scotty’s influence will always be seen and felt as Triumphant continues its ministry in the coming years.”
“Scotty has been a much-loved and respected member of this family,” says David Sutton, the tenor singer for Triumphant. “We all understand and share in the calling of ministry in varying capacities. As such, we are fully supportive of Scotty and this new endeavor.”
“We’ve always encouraged our kids to never be afraid of expanding their borders,” Clayton Inman recalls. “Scotty has been with Triumphant for twenty years. As both his dad and a group member, I’m extremely grateful for that. At the same time, his mom and I are excited for the world to see everything Scotty has to offer for years to come.”
Inevitably, Scotty will leave behind big shoes to fill. While the group vows to exercise prayerful consideration and discernment during the interview process, the members appreciate Scotty’s willing participation during this time of transition. His involvement in the selection process highlights the impact of the quartet’s ministry and the quality of relationships formed during those years. All serious inquiries for the lead/baritone position should be emailed to landon@imcconcerts.com.
Scotty will continue to appear as part of Triumphant through the end of the year. A transition such as this one is not to be taken lightly, and Scotty wants to make the change as smooth as possible for each and every person involved. He shares, “Please pray for me and my family during this transition, as well as my favorite group of guys, Triumphant, as they move forward. I know God has great things in store for them!”
To stay up-to-date on current happenings, follow Scotty Inman on social media or visit scottyinman.com.

Remembering Don Baucom

Don Baucom, father of The Gospel Greats host, Rodney Baucom, passed away during the evening hours of Thursday, June 29, 2023. Mr. Baucom had been in declining health in recent weeks.
Funeral arrangements are pending; additional information will be released as plans are finalized.
The Baucom family appreciates your prayers during this difficult time.