Tag: Gospel

Inspiration Behind the Steele’s song ‘On the King’s Shoulders’

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AMY TURNER

Brad Steele of The Steels took some time to be interviewed by Texas Gospel about thegroup’s new song, “On the King’s Shoulders.”

“On the King’s Shoulders is a song that was written by me and my dad,” Steele explained.

He told us the inspiration for the song came from an unexpected source. “We wrote this a few years ago after a sermon he had preached around Christmas time, ironically, where he talked about the portion of Scripture that says he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Prince of Peace, Everlasting Father and the government will be on his shoulders,” Steele recounted.

The sermon sparked an idea that would eventually become the core message of the song. Steele continued, “He talked about in that sermon, all of the different things that we can put on his shoulders, all of the different things that he can take, he can take the load on his shoulders. And that gave the idea for on the King’s shoulders”

Like many inspired songs, it didn’t take long from start to finish. “So we wrote the song, and it was really a short co-write, only took about an hour-and-a-half, I would say, to write the song. Really just came natural,” Steele said

The Steeles had a clear vision for the song’s style and impact. “We wanted it to be a toe-tapper. Wanted it to be a fast, upbeat song that people could enjoy,” Steele shared.

However, beyond the catchy melody, there’s a profound message. “And of course, the message that people take away is that you know, whatever you’re going through in your life, whatever’s going on in our world and in our nation, he can bear the weight. He can take the weight of whatever is weighing you down on his shoulders”

The lyrics reflect this message of comfort and support. Lines such as “Each burden has a resting place. Every heartache has a home where worries all get much lighter because he will carry the load” encapsulate the song’s theme

The song also touches on the idea of perspective, with lyrics like “Jesus sees a grain of sand when we just see a boulder”

This imagery encourages listeners to trust in God to handle their problems.

For those facing unexpected challenges, the song offers reassurance: “If a storm has surprised you, there’s someone walking beside you. He has power in his hand, and he will help you stand”

Listen for On the King’s Shoulders throughout the day on Texas Gospel Canada!

Old Time Preachers Quartet Announces Final Performance

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AMY TURNER

The Old Time Preachers Quartet, based in Nashville, Tennessee, has announced their retirement after a decade-long run. The group, founded in 2016, will conclude with a final performance in 2026.

Les Butler, owner of the quartet, stated that the group’s mission was to combine preaching and singing in the traditional style.

“God had a plan and a time,” Butler said. “We have tried our best to execute on that plan.”

The decision to retire comes as two members of the group, Tim Owens and Lee McNeill, have taken on pastoral roles, making Sunday travel unfeasible. Adam Borden, another member, is now engaged in full-time evangelism with a busy schedule. Butler himself cited the growing success of his other ventures, including Butler Music Group, Family Music Group, and REAL Southern Gospel Radio, as factors in the decision. He emphasized the broader reach and impact of these ministries compared to the quartet’s travels.

Reflecting on the group’s legacy, Butler expressed gratitude to all past and present members, including Mike Holcomb, Jeremy Ballinger, Bob Sellers, and Isaac Moore. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by their families and thanked the pastors and promoters who supported their ministry.

The Old Time Preachers Quartet will honour most of their scheduled performances for 2025 and early 2026. Their final dates include appearances at the Spring Jubilee in Ringgold, Georgia, and Hullender Farms in Apison, Tennessee, in 2025, with their last scheduled performance at Teays Valley Baptist Church in West Virginia in January 2026.

Fans can continue to purchase the group’s CDs and USBs through their website after the retirement.

Veteran Gospel Trio Paid In Full Releases New Album “Louder”

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JEFF TURNER

Southern gospel trio Paid In Full has unveiled the trio’s latest studio album, “Louder,” in collaboration with StowTown Records. The release marks the group’s second project with the label, following their 30th anniversary digital release in 2021.

Distributed exclusively by Provident/Sony, Louder is available on all digital platforms worldwide.

The album, produced by 41-time Dove Award winner Wayne Haun, features six tracks written by renowned industry songwriters. Standout songs include “I Can’t Do It By Myself,” which explores themes of grace and mercy, and the title track “Love Is Louder,” described by group member Jeff Crews as an upbeat melody with a message of God’s faithfulness.

Lance Moore, the group’s lead vocalist, co-wrote “Better With A Friend,” a country-flavoured track emphasizing unity and companionship. Moore states, “Life is filled with uncertainty, but God is always faithful, and He is the greatest Friend we will ever have.”

Paid In Full, formed in 1991, has built a reputation for delivering polished performances both on and off stage. Early in their career, they caught the attention of gospel legend Jake Hess, who mentored the group and appeared on their 1998 recording.

Provided to YouTube by StowTown Records I Can’t Do This By Myself · Paid In Full Louder ℗ 2024 StowTown Records Released on: 2024-12-13

StowTown Records President and CEO Landon Beene expressed enthusiasm for the project, praising the trio’s work ethic and musical quality. The album is available on all digital platforms worldwide, distributed by Provident/Sony.

Paid In Full, consisting of Bradley Littlejohn, Jeff Crews, and Lance Moore, began their professional ministry while in high school. They have since performed alongside notable gospel acts such as The Gaither Vocal Band and The Cathedrals. The group continues to focus on sharing their faith through music in various venues across the country.

The story behind Legacy Five’s Bigger on the Inside

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JEFF TURNER

Gospel music often captures the beauty of worship and the power of faith. One such song is Legacy Five’s poignant track inspired by the idea that worship spaces, no matter how small, can hold infinite significance. Lee Black of Legacy Five spoke with Texas Gospel about the song offering a glimpse into the creative process and spiritual truths behind it.

Lee Black (Courtesy https://legacyfive.com/)

The inspiration for the song came from a story shared by Scott Fowler, another member of Legacy Five. Black recounted, “Scott told us this story on the bus one morning of a church in the early days of Legacy Five where they were scheduled to sing… he said they pulled up and the bus was literally bigger than the church building. I think the pastor saw the shocked looks on their faces as they got off the bus and said, ‘Don’t worry. It’s bigger on the inside.’” This phrase, simple yet profound, sparked Black’s creativity. “It really is amazing to me that our infinite God allows himself to come into our little worship spaces… even the smallest country church. So that’s where that song came from,” he explained.

Provided to YouTube by StowTown Records Bigger on the Inside · Legacy Five 25 ℗ 2024 StowTown Records

The song’s bridge is closely tied to scripture, specifically Matthew 18:20, which says, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there I am in the midst of them.” Black reflected on the connection, saying, “Again, I’m just struck by how small we are and how BIG the God we worship is. And, yet, somehow… when we gather in our tiny worship spaces, He is there!” This biblical truth serves as the foundation of the song’s message, reinforcing the idea that the presence of God transcends physical dimensions.

When discussing his songwriting process, Black revealed the meticulous attention he pays to moments of inspiration. “In the notes section of my phone, I keep a running list of possible song titles… those moments that move me that I feel could be turned into songs,” he shared. The phrase “Don’t worry. It’s bigger on the inside” was one such moment that lingered with him. Upon returning home from the road, he quickly began crafting the song, using vivid descriptions to bring the church in the story to life. “I just started describing ‘that’ church – where it was, what it looked like, etc. I even used some actual street names from my little hometown,” he said. Despite initially believing it might not suit Legacy Five, the song found its way into the group’s repertoire and became a cherished piece for both the artists and their audience.

Legacy Five in Branson, Missouri October 2024 (Courtesy Facebook)

The song’s core message underscores the importance of the heart in worship, rather than the grandeur of the location. “The ‘place’ is so much less important than the ‘heart’ of those who gather to worship,” Black emphasized. “We can be in the grandest cathedral or the tiniest backwoods church – if we come with hearts ready to worship the Lord, He will let Himself be found!” This is a theme that gives listeners a personal connection to the song. “I’ve been amazed at the folks who’ve come by the record table saying, ‘That’s my church!’” Black noted. “Even if you’ve moved on to another church, even if ‘that’ church no longer stands… you still hold sweet memories of the place where you met Jesus for the first time.”

In the larger context of Legacy Five’s ministry, the song aligns with their commitment to sharing biblical truths and encouraging communal worship. Black highlighted the importance of gathering as believers, saying, “I hope people would take away the truth of Matthew 18:20 – that when we gather in the name of Jesus, He is there. And it’s SO important for believers to gather together as His Church.” He further stressed that the physical setting is secondary to fulfilling the mission of worship and discipleship.

Through this song, Legacy Five reminds Gospel music fans that worship is not confined by walls or measured by size. It is the sincerity of the heart and the unity of believers that create a sacred space where God dwells.

The Gospel: Power and Wisdom for the Believer

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JEFF TURNER

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is far more than words; it is the power of God and the wisdom of God to those who are called and saved (1 Corinthians 1:24). This truth is not just intellectual but deeply experiential. If you have been called by God, you know it in your heart. There are times of doubt when faith may waver, yet the believer ultimately finds assurance in Christ’s grasp, not in their hold on Him.

The Gospel transforms lives with undeniable power. Like a mighty hand, it frees us from the bondage of sin and brings us into the liberty of Christ. It is this power that compels missionaries to leave all they know, ministers to risk their lives for the sick, and ordinary believers to show extraordinary courage and love in the face of trials. The cross of Christ fuels their strength and devotion.

Consider the steadfastness of martyrs who, even in the flames, declare, “I know that my Redeemer lives.” Or the serene faith of a dying believer who whispers hymns of trust in Christ. What sustains them in such moments? It is the Gospel—the power of God unto salvation.

Yet the Gospel is not only powerful but wise. It is a divine plan where justice and mercy meet, revealing mysteries that surpass human understanding. For the believer, it becomes the foundation for all learning and wisdom. When Christ is at the center, everything else finds its rightful place.

Let us examine our hearts: do we belong to those who reject Christ, calling His message foolishness? Or are we among the called, who know and experience the Gospel’s power and wisdom?