Category: Top articles

The Craguns: A Gospel Family United in Music and Faith

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JEFF TURNER

The Craguns, a dynamic family gospel group, is made up of Jordan and Elena Cragun, along with Jordan’s father Ray and sister Savannah, the group has built a reputation for heartfelt harmonies and a deep, spiritual connection with their audience. The Craguns’ music is a reflection of their faith and dedication to spreading the message of God’s love and grace.

Their latest song, “Wasted Words,” is a reminder. It shows that no prayer is ever wasted. No sincere cry for help is wasted, nor are any honest words offered to God. Jordan Cragun passionately believes that as Christians, we should never hesitate to reach out to God in times of need or joy. He said, “I am so thankful for a God who cares about everything we face and that we can go boldly to Him with our petitions and our concerns and even our praises, and there are no wasted words with God.”

This sentiment lies at the heart of “Wasted Words,” a song that centers on the idea that every conversation with God is meaningful, whether spoken in moments of joy or despair. The lyrics echo Matthew 6:5–8 as the song song encourages listeners to pray sincerely, without worrying about rehearsing or performing their prayers. It is not the public display of piety that matters, but the authenticity of our hearts. God listens to the words we speak in private, knowing our true intentions.

Listen for “Wasted Words” playing now on Texas Gospel Canada!

The Lore Family have Faith Over Fear on upcoming album

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SPECIAL CROSSROADS RECORDS

Arden, North Carolina (October 1, 2024) — As they prepare for the release of Faith Over Fear, The Lore Family’s fourth collection for Horizon Records coming soon on November 15, Darren Lore is in a reflective mood.  

“Years ago, in a small congregation, the Lord started to grow an unknown family into a singing ministry,” the Southern Gospel singer and songwriter recalls. “The first recording by The Lore Family was intended to serve as a reminder of those earliest years—but God had a greater plan.

“Soon,” he continues, “The Lore Family began to launch out from Southern Ohio into surrounding states. Those first few years of recording, singing and ministry went by so quickly. Fayth and Samuel grew up boldly standing beside Sandy and I on various stages. As a family, we grew musically, professionally and spiritually. We prayed to be united in our cause. We believed in the One who gave us the songs. Now, nearly 20 years later, The Lore Family is still singing for the Lord. What a blessing to be releasing our tenth project!”

Indeed, Faith Over Fear — now available for pre-save/add — offers a compelling musical testimonial to the power that emerges when an abundance of talent is married to unshakable faith. Built around the four singles the quartet has released in 2024, it’s a collection that spans a variety of musical moods and settings, yet never loses sight of The Lore Family’s underlying, Christ-centered purpose. Beginning with the opening track and first single, “God Said You’re Gonna Make It,” which features both Darren and Sandy Lore on a decades-old popular favorite, Faith Over Fear offers everything from soulful ballads like Fayth Lore Whisnant’s poignant “By Grace” to the bluegrass flavor of the title track, sung by Jake Whisnant, to the expansively orchestrated “There Was A Day When” and “I Wish They Could See Me Now,” to the robust rhythms of the album’s next focus track, Sandy Lore’s spirited reading of “Shaking Off The Dust” and the closing “I Keep Praying” — Darren Lore’s contribution of fully half of the album’s songs underlines even more deeply the unity of the Family’s artistic and spiritual approach.

“A lot has changed in The Lore Family over the past two decades,” observes Darren. “Change is inevitable in every life and ministry—but God has remained faithful and true. We know that, whatever tomorrow holds, we can choose ‘Faith Over Fear,’ In seasons of uncertainty, we can rest in Christ. 

“The Lore Family prays that this project outlives us,” he concludes. “Each song has a specific message that will stand the test of time. They’ve been recorded to challenge and encourage you. But, they have already served to strengthen our faith. The lyrics are powerful. Listen close and God will speak to you. Let the melody of each song fill your heart. It’s our heart’s desire that the lost will be found through the Gospel. We want you to be able to say ‘There Was a Day When’ Jesus saved me. Only God knows how He will use this recording. We yield our future to Him. ‘By Grace’ we’ve been saved through faith. And, we know that we will be kept in His care.”

Pre-save/add Faith Over Fear HERE.

Joseph Habedank: A Soloist’s Journey of Humility and Honor

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JEFF TURNER

Joseph Habedank, known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, has once again been recognized for his contributions to southern gospel music. At the 2024 Singing News Fan Awards, Habedank was awarded “Soloist of the Year,” a testament to his enduring influence and talent in the genre. As he stood on stage to accept this prestigious honor, Habedank’s focus was not solely on himself, but on those who paved the way for him and others in the field.

In his acceptance speech, Habedank turned the spotlight to two legendary southern gospel soloists, acknowledging the impact they’ve had on his life and career. “We honored one of my favorite soloists today, and his name’s Kirk Talley,” Habedank said. “But I just saw one of the greatest soloists ever named Ivan Parker, and I love Ivan so much. Can we honor Ivan today? I love him so much.” His words reflected not only his gratitude for the recognition but also his deep appreciation for the pioneers of southern gospel music.

For over two decades, Habedank has been captivating audiences with his poignant, personal songwriting. His solo career began in 2014 with the release of his debut album Welcome Home, an album that set the tone for what would become a career marked by authenticity and transparency. Since then, he has earned two GRAMMY® nominations and three GMA Dove Awards. But for Habedank, it’s never been about the accolades. Instead, it’s his passion for sharing real-life struggles, faith, and redemption through music that has solidified his place in the hearts of his listeners.

Habedank’s speech at the awards ceremony is a reminder of his humility and his commitment to honoring those who came before him. While his voice and songwriting continue to earn him accolades, it’s his spirit of gratitude that makes him stand out. “Thank you all so much. I love you. God bless you,” he concluded his speech, with a sincerity that has come to define his career.

As Habedank looks ahead, it’s clear that his journey is far from over. His recognition as “Soloist of the Year” is just the latest milestone in a career that continues to inspire and uplift, not only through his music but through his heart for the gospel and for the people who shaped his path.

StowTown Records announces new release from The Taylors

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SPECIAL STOWTOWN RECORDS

Nashville, TN – The rich musical heritage of The Taylors originally began in a small country church in North Carolina. That tradition has continued over the past two decades as Chris, Suzanne and Jonathan, collectively known as The Taylors, have consistently delivered musical excellence that has been embraced by audiences all across the country.

Their brand new Stowtown Records release, Peace, Love, Joy, follows up their 2022 Love Is The Voice recording and promises even more musical pleasure for longtime fans, as well as brand new listeners. The recording features the dynamic sibling group at their very best, lending their trademark, rich vocal harmonies to songs that contain the message of God’s goodness, grace, love and mercy.

Producer Wayne Haun said of the highly-anticipated project, “I’ve always loved the music we’ve created over the years, but there’s something about this album that makes me want to play it over and over. The collection of songs, the musicianship of some of Nashville and New York’s’ finest and, of course, the heartfelt performances of these three is simply put, perfection.”

Jonathan shared his enthusiasm about the new music, “This is my favorite album we’ve recorded so far! The songwriters we worked with really knocked it out of the park, and each song has a timely message for our listeners. Working with the best producer in the industry always gives us confidence that we’re going to have a quality project, but Wayne really outdid himself on this one. We also had an amazing team of musicians and engineers.” Suzanne added, “This album has been carefully crafted and prayed over.” Jonathan continued, “God has a way of sending us the perfect songs that we need to hear at exactly the right time in the seasons that we find ourselves in. We hope our listeners will be encouraged and uplifted, and we’re excited to see what God is going to do with this project!”

The debut single, “He Is Good To Me,“ is a driving, upbeat tune that shares of God’s faithfulness regardless of the difficult circumstances life may bring. It’s a message of hope that is already garnering nationwide radio airplay.

Other songs expected to be released to radio include “I Want To Hear It,“ a song of personal testimony and praise, penned by Rachel McCuthcheon and multi-award winning writer Rodney Griffin, and the title cut, which features Chris on lead vocals and was written by Kevin Winebarger and Wayne Haun.

The moving ballad, “God Cares,“ is a message of reassurance, which Jonathan delivers with bold conviction. Another message of God’s consistent care for us is delivered by Suzanne in “God Has Heard Your Cry,“ a powerful composition from the prolific writing team of Marcia Henry, Sue C. Smith and Rachel McCutcheon.

“We’re beyond thrilled with how this project turned out. It is our hope that as you listen, your soul will be filled with God’s peace, love and joy,” Chris expressed. This new offering from The Taylors is a wonderful musical celebration of the peace, love and joy that can only be found in a personal relationship with a loving Savior whose goodness knows no end.

Distributed exclusively by Provident/Sony, Peace, Love, Joy is available on all digital platforms worldwide. Stream the full project here.

Track List:
Peace, Love, Joy
The Well
God Has Heard Your Cry
He Is Good To Me
I Want To Hear It
God Cares

The Jordan Family Band Celebrates Alex and Jayleigh’s Wedding

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JEFF TURNER

The Jordan Family Band recently celebrated a joyful occasion as Alex Jordan and Jayleigh Jones tied the knot over the weekend. The couple, who met while on tour, have been eagerly awaiting this moment and are now excited to begin their journey as husband and wife.

Alex expressed the significance of this special day, sharing, “Me and Jayleigh have been looking forward to our wedding day for a super long time now. Most of you guys don’t know she’s lived in Arkansas and I live in Georgia. We met on tour and that’s how the distance is there.”

Despite the distance, their love flourished, and they knew they were destined to be together. “We just knew the distance wouldn’t last long. We just didn’t know how to bring to the table with our parents. We knew that we wanted to be married very soon,” Alex said.

Filled with excitement and anticipation for the future, Alex also admitted to feeling a mix of emotions. “So many different emotions. We’re feeling very excited, very nervous, and we’re just looking forward to moving on and starting life with each other.”

Our heartfelt congratulations go out to Alex and Jayleigh Jordan as they begin this exciting new chapter!