Author: Texas Gospel

Karen Peck Gooch: A Legacy of Faith and Songwriting Success in Southern Gospel Music

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JEFF TURNER

Karen Peck Gooch has become a remarkable figure in Southern Gospel Music, with a career that spans decades of dedication, talent, and passion. As a six-time Grammy-nominated artist and winner of nine GMA Dove Awards, Karen’s influence on the genre is undeniable. Her journey into songwriting, which has added another dimension to her illustrious career, is a story of discovery and growth.

Karen, who currently leads Karen Peck & New River—a group she formed in 1991—recalls how she initially hesitated to pursue songwriting seriously. “When we joined the Daywin label, Rick Shelton said, why don’t you drive to Nashville and sit in a writer’s room with some great writers? I didn’t do it for a long time just because I’m a tune person and an idea person,” Karen explains. Despite her initial reluctance, she eventually took that leap, and it opened up new possibilities for her.

“I thought, well, I don’t want to waste anybody’s time,” she admits. But as she started working in the studio, she realized, “Hey, maybe I do have something more than just a tune and an idea.” This revelation marked a turning point in her career, fueling her confidence and helping her to craft songs that resonate deeply with her audience. “I do know when the song comes together, that’s what I want to say. It has been such an incredible, incredible experience for me.”

Karen’s songwriting has culminated in the release of “Be Ready!,” the latest single from Karen Peck & New River, which she co-wrote with renowned writers Wayne Haun and Joel Lindsey. The song is a testament to her growth as a songwriter and her unwavering commitment to her craft.

Outside of her musical accomplishments, Karen is also a devoted wife, married to Rickey Gooch. Her personal and professional lives are a testament to her faith, perseverance, and the joy she finds in sharing her message through song. As Karen continues to make her mark on Southern Gospel Music, her legacy as both a performer and a songwriter only grows stronger, inspiring countless others along the way.

Celebrating a Legacy: Mike LeFevre Retires as Fire Chief

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JEFF TURNER

Last week, the White County Emergency Operations Center was filled with friends, family, county officials, and fellow firefighters, all gathered to honor Mike LeFevre of The LeFevre Quartet. The occasion? Celebrating his retirement after an illustrious 25-year career as a firefighter, including seven years with the White County Fire Service, GA (USA) and his final two years as Fire Chief.

LeFevre’s last day on the job was Friday, August 23. The reception was a heartfelt tribute to his dedication and service. “I am proud of what we’ve achieved together and grateful to have ended my 25-year career right here in White County,” LeFevre said. “This community has been incredibly supportive, and it’s been an honor to serve.”

Reflecting on his time as Fire Chief, LeFevre shared, “When I’m not on the road with LaFevera Quartet, I am actually the fire chief of White County, Georgia. I actively manage the operations of a fire department that consist of about 30 full-time, about 30 part-time, and about 20 volunteers. It’s pretty time-consuming.”

LeFevre’s leadership extended beyond administrative duties. “We have mountains, a lot of mountainous area up there, so we do a lot of mountain rescues. So you may see me when I’m there. I don’t just stay in the office all the time because I like to run calls. And so I’ll repel. You know, I’ve repelled down for rescues. I’ll still put on my gear and go in and actually fight fire, run medical calls.”

Despite his passion for firefighting, LeFevre’s heart has always been with gospel music. “My passion is gospel music. And my goal is to retire from firefighting altogether and just be back singing full time,” he said. Now, with his retirement, he plans to spend more time with his wife, kids, and grandchildren, and focus on making Southern Gospel Music with The LeFevre Quartet.

As White County bids farewell to a dedicated leader, they also celebrate the beginning of a new chapter for Mike LeFevre. His legacy as a firefighter and his contributions to the community will be remembered for years to come. Congratulations, Chief LeFevre, on your well-deserved retirement!

Listen for the LeFevre Quartet’s latest song “Things We Cannot Change” on Texas Gospel Canada!

Michael Booth Fills In with The Mark Trammell Quartet Amid Mark Trammell’s Family Emergency

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JEFF TURNER

This weekend, Michael Booth stepped in to sing with The Mark Trammell Quartet as Mark Trammell remained at the bedside of his recovering wife. Mark Trammell expressed his gratitude on Facebook, saying, “I want to personally thank my longtime friend and Gospel Music legend Michael Booth for his willingness to stand in my place this week! It humbles me that he would take his time away from home to help us. Thank you, Michael, the boys on the bus have enjoyed your company!”

Trammell’s heartfelt message reflects the deep camaraderie within the Southern Gospel community, where friends step up to support each other in times of need.

The Kingsmen’s New Single “Praying for the Prodigal” Offers a Powerful Message of Redemption

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JEFF TURNER

The Kingsmen Quartet has been a staple of Southern Gospel music since 1956. The group lives up to its reputation with the latest release, “Praying for the Prodigal,” a heartfelt anthem that speaks to the redemptive power of prayer and grace. The current lineup, featuring Southern Gospel Hall of Fame inductee Ray Dean Reese, alongside Brandon, Chris Jenkins, Chris Bryant, and Alan Kendall, continues to uphold the group’s legacy of delivering spiritually impactful music.

Alan Kendall, a key member of the group, shared his personal connection to the song, revealing how its message has touched him on a profound level. “The more I listen to it, though, the more I found a lot of my story in this song,” Kendall reflects. “Even though I was saved at the age of nine, I’ve seen some valleys that I created for myself.”

Kendall’s words echo the sentiment that many believers can relate to—the struggle of straying from the path and the joy of being led back by grace. He candidly admits, “I think we’ve all been guilty of investing in a sin debt that’s already been paid for us.” This acknowledgment of human imperfection and the continual need for divine intervention is a central theme in the song.

Yet, the song isn’t just about personal reflection; it’s also a celebration of the power of intercessory prayer. “I’m so thankful that I’ve had people in my life that have prayed for me,” Kendall expresses with gratitude. He adds, “And if you’re one of those people, let me say thank you for praying for me and never giving up on me.”

“Praying for the Prodigal” is more than just a song; it’s a reminder of the relentless grace of God and the importance of praying for those who may have lost their way. Through their music, The Kingsmen continue to inspire and uplift, offering a message of hope to all who listen.

Donna Ulisse’s ‘My Constant Savior’: A Song Born from Faith and Family Memories

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JEFF TURNER

Donna Ulisse’s latest song, “My Constant Savior,” emerges from a deeply personal and poignant moment in her life. The track is a reflection of Ulisse’s rich musical journey and the heartfelt experiences that continue to inspire her work.

A Hampton, Virginia native, Donna Ulisse moved to Nashville in 1984, drawn by a passion for music that would shape her career. She quickly found her place on Music Row, singing demos and refining her craft, leading to a major record deal with Atlantic Records in the early 1990s. Her performances on shows like Hee Haw and Nashville Now garnered her international attention. Over time, Ulisse embraced her songwriting skills, which led her into the bluegrass genre she now cherishes, defined by its banjoes, fiddles, and mandolins.

The inspiration for “My Constant Savior” came during a deeply emotional time. Ulisse shared that the song originated from a significant memory involving her father. She recounts a particular morning: “I had bought a little farm with my husband. We call it the Wee Farm and I love that place. It’s not very big, but when we bought it, my dad and my brother came down to help us with the fixing up.” Her father, known for his tireless work ethic, woke her early one day with a list of materials for home improvements. “So dutifully, I got in my truck and started heading down our little country road. And right before I turned off our country road, the sun came up over the trees. And it was the most beautiful thing I’d ever seen.”

This moment of beauty and gratitude led Ulisse to a profound realization, capturing the essence of her song: “And this first line came to me as glorious morning. Look what God made me. And Instantly, this song started dumping out of my heart, so I pulled the truck over and I got my voice recorder out and it was coming out melody and lyric at the same time as fast as I could write it. It was a true gift.”

“My Constant Savior” reflects Ulisse’s deep connection to her faith and the meaningful moments that shape her music. The song is not only a tribute to her father’s memory but also a celebration of the divine presence she feels in her life. Through her lyrics and melody, Ulisse continues to share her journey with her listeners, blending personal reflection with her signature bluegrass sound.