JEFF TURNER

In an era marked by uncertainty and division, one musical tradition continues to reach beyond generational boundaries. Southern Gospel music, with its roots in American Christian culture, maintains a singular focus: providing hope to those who need it most.

Clint Brown of Southbound says the purpose of Southern Gospel goes far beyond entertainment or even worship—it represents a calling to serve. It encourages the world.

“If there’s anything that I believe is a standard for Southern Gospel, it’s the fact that we are hope dealers. I mean, it just is,” Brown explains. “You know, whether it’s, I’m getting up in age and I’ve got something to look forward to, whether it’s Jason Crabb saying, ‘Through the fire, God will keep you.’ No matter what it is, whether it’s Ronnie Henson 50 years ago saying, ‘You know but when you’re in a place where you’re unsure and don’t know how to get out of, there’s always a lighthouse. I think Southern Gospel has always been hope dealers.”

Rather than accidentally stumbling into themes of encouragement, our artists and songwriters deliberately work to serve those facing life’s inevitable challenges. Brown’s reference to aging listeners finding “something to look forward to” is true. The lyrics address universal human experiences.

Contemporary artist Jason Crabb’s message of God’s protection “through the fire” carry the same idea of Ronnie Henson’s lighthouse offering guidance to the lost and uncertain.

We hope the music you hear on Texas Gospel is an encouragement to listeners. Perhaps not every song speaks to you. But at lest some of the time.