Category: Top articles

Why ‘2nd Opinions’ by Master’s Voice is a Must-Listen

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TEXAS GOSPEL CANADA VOLUNTEER

Texas Gospel Canada has brought fresh music to its playlist, adding 2nd Opinions by Master’s Voice this week. This thought-provoking song, written by John Mark and Matthew Joseph, is part of the group’s latest album, Immersed.

The song takes a serious look at how people often follow ideas that sound wise but have no foundation in scripture. The lyrics challenge these trends, pointing out that they come from what the writers call the “book of second opinions.”

“Words that paint a pretty picture but you won’t find them in the scriptures / That’s ‘Cause they’re all from the book of second opinions,” the song begins. With lines like this, the song reminds listeners to discern carefully and turn to the Bible for real truth, not to popular sayings or personal preferences.

The song also calls out common phrases like “follow your heart” or “everything happens for a reason.” While these may seem encouraging, the writers argue that they can mislead people if they don’t align with biblical truth. As the lyrics warn:
“They say follow your heart where it’ll lead you / Let that little voice inside you show the way / I guess the million-dollar question is at your heart or in the chest / ’Cause a heart’s been known to lead a fool astray.”

One of the song’s most powerful lines highlights the importance of depending on God:
“I’ve heard them say the Lord won’t give you anything you can’t handle / But the truth is you can’t handle anything without Him.”

The overall message is clear: it’s time to stop looking to temporary or misleading sources for wisdom and start focusing on God’s Word. The chorus emphasizes this call:
“Hey, it’s high time we turned our interest / To God’s word instead of Pinterest / And finally closed the book of second opinions.”

This song aligns beautifully with Proverbs 30:5, which says, “Every word of God is flawless; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.” Just as the song urges listeners to avoid unreliable sources, this verse reminds us of the perfection and reliability of God’s Word.

The song serves as both a warning and a call to action in today’s world, where truth is often replaced by what’s popular or convenient.

Discover High Road’s Heartfelt Gospel Album: ‘Straight From The Heart’

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TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

HighRoad’s latest album, Straight From The Heart, brings together a collection of heartfelt songs and special collaborations. One of the standout tracks is “There’s A River,” a song that features guest artist Jaley Roberts. Sarah Jaylee Roberts of High Road spoke about the experience of recording this song with her friend.

“We got to sing this one with my friend Jaley Roberts. She’s also in a bluegrass group called Sister Sadie and I love Jaley singing and I love her heart for the old songs. So bringing her in on this project and especially this song is very special. She’s a dear friend and we loved singing it in the studio. Of course Ben Isaacs producing it so it has a little bit of flair to it that you would hear with bluegrass-y gospel music. So we hope you like it. It’s called There’s a River.”

The song is a moving invitation for people to come to the river, a symbol of healing and renewal. The lyrics describe a place where living water flows freely, calling people to leave their burdens behind and find peace.

Daywind Records / Youtube: High Road. Songwriters: Kenna Turner West / Sonya Isaacs Yeary / Becky Isaacs Bowman Album: Straight From The Heart

“Come to the river, oh my sister
If you want to be clean
Run to the water, oh my brother
If ya wanna wade into the healing stream.”

This idea reflects the message of baptism, but also of John 7:38, where Jesus says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” The song reminds listeners that faith can bring refreshment to their spirits, just like water brings life to a dry land.

The song continues with an image of leaving behind struggles and stepping into a new beginning.

“We don’t have to stay here dying in the desert
Kick your shoes off, leave your burdens on the banks
Take my hand now, friend, and we’ll go in together
Let the water wash our troubles all away.”

The bridge makes it clear that the invitation is open to everyone.

“Welcome saints, welcome sinners
Welcome pros and I-can’t-swimmers
All ya really need to know
Is all ya need is faith to float.”

This message of inclusion and grace is at the heart of the song. Whether someone feels strong in their faith or unsure of where they stand, the river is a place where all are welcome.

With Jaley Roberts’ beautiful voice and Ben Isaacs’ skilled production, the song blends the traditional sounds of bluegrass with gospel, creating a piece that is both classic and refreshing. “There’s A River” is more than just a song; it is an invitation to find healing, peace, and hope through faith.

Triumphant Quartet’s Big Ole Stone is a Symbol of Hope and Victory

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JEFF TURNER

Mark, chapter 16, verses 5-6, recounts a pivotal moment in Christian history. It tells of the women who went to the tomb of Jesus, carrying spices to anoint his body. Instead of finding him there, they were greeted by an angel who said, “He is not here, for he has risen, just like he said. Come, see the place where the Lord was lying.”

This declaration is central to the Christian faith. It signifies the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to rise from the dead, proving his power over sin and death. The empty tomb has become a symbol of hope and victory for all who believe in Jesus as their saviour.

Sean Barber, Lead Singer courtesy triumphantquartet.com

This powerful message is echoed in the song “Big Ole Stone” by Triumphant Quartet. Sean Barber, a member of the group, describes the essence of the song: “You know, if you believe that that grave is no longer full, that it’s empty, and that stone’s been rolled away, man, just lift your hands in victory. You’ve got hope. There’s better days coming. And this is your victory. And that’s the song in a nutshell.”

The song, featured on the group’s God is Listening CD, has resonated deeply with listeners. Its message of triumph and hope is reflected in its current standing as the number 9 song on the Texas Gospel Canada Top 30 list for this month.

For believers, the empty tomb is more than a historical moment—it is a reminder that victory is possible through faith. As Sean Barber says, “You’ve got hope. There’s better days coming.” This truth continues to inspire and uplift, bringing the message of Easter into the hearts of many.

Big Ole Stone (Victory) · Triumphant Quartet God Is Listening ℗ 2024 StowTown Records, LLC Released on: 2024-06-07

Mark 16 NASB: “When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might come and anoint Him. And very early on the first day of the week, they came to the tomb when the sun had risen. They were saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone from the entrance of the tomb for us?” And looking up, they noticed that the stone had been rolled away; for it was extremely large. And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting at the right, wearing a white robe; and they were amazed. But he said to them, “Do not be amazed; you are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who has been crucified. He has risen; He is not here; see, here is the place where they laid Him. But go, tell His disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see Him, just as He told you.’” And they went out and fled from the tomb, for trembling and astonishment had gripped them; and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.

Now after He had risen early on the first day of the week, He first appeared to Mary Magdalene, from whom He had cast out seven demons. She went and reported to those who had been with Him, while they were mourning and weeping. And when they heard that He was alive and had been seen by her, they refused to believe it.

Now after that, He appeared in a different form to two of them while they were walking along on their way to the country. And they went away and reported it to the rest, but they did not believe them, either.” – NASB

Westward Road’s New Song Urges Unity Through Love

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TEXAS GOSPEL VOLUNTEER

The latest release from Westward Road, titled Love One Another, carries a message of compassion and unity. The song, co-written by Scott Roberts of Westward Road and award-winning songwriter Cindy Morgan, speaks to the challenges facing society today.

Scott Roberts explained the inspiration behind the song. “You know, when we wrote our song Love One Another with Cindy Morgan, there was a lot going on in the world. There were riots going on and just people at odds with one another.” He noted that the song’s message resonated deeply when it was first written and remains just as relevant now.

A key verse from the song reflects this universal need for hope and understanding:
“I think we could all use a little good news today. Turn off the TV and the noise. So much pain to pray away.”

Provided to YouTube by Daywind Records Love One Another · Westward Road City of Light ℗ 2023 Westward Road Released on: 2023-04-14

Roberts emphasized the importance of shifting focus from individual concerns to the greater good. “Isn’t that so true? And if we’d think a little less about ourselves and think a lot more about God and others, all the world’s problems will go away.”

At its core, the message of Love One Another is rooted in faith and selflessness. Roberts summed it up simply: “That’s what it all boils down to, isn’t it? Love God with all your heart, mind, and soul, and love one another.”

This call for kindness and understanding serves as a reminder of the power of love and unity in overcoming division. Listeners are encouraged to take small steps in their daily lives to create a more caring and connected world.

The Legacy of Joseph Habedank in Gospel Music

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TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

Joseph Habedank has spent over two decades pursuing a dream that began when he was just five years old. His love for southern gospel music started early, with influences from legendary groups like Gold City, the Kingsmen, the Singing Americans, and the Cathedrals.

Reflecting on his childhood, Joseph shared his deep connection to the music. “I remember as a five-year-old sitting with my headphones listening to Gold City and the Kingsmen and the Singing Americans, Cathedrals, and thinking this is what I want to do. I mean, I can remember sitting on the couch, but I fell in love with the music and I just wanted to do it the rest of my life.”

Provided to YouTube by Daywind Records Jesus walked in (feat. Chris Blue) · Joseph Habedank · Chris Blue autobiography ℗ 2024 Daywind Records Released on: 2024-04-19

For Joseph, the clarity of his passion at such a young age was unique. “It was crazy. It sounds so odd to say as a five-year-old I knew, but I knew,” he recalled. His determination to follow his dream has led to a successful career that he remains committed to. “So yeah, I’m so grateful I get to live out my dream and been doing it for over two decades now and I don’t think I’m going to quit anytime soon,” he added.

Joseph’s latest song, Jesus Walked In, continues to showcase his love for gospel music and his dedication to sharing its message with audiences. For him, the journey is far from over, as he remains deeply inspired by the genre that first captured his heart.