Tag: Greater Vision

Greater Vision’s “God Wants to Hear You Sing” Celebrates 25-Year Milestone

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AMY TURNER

A Southern Gospel song that has encouraged countless listeners through difficult times is marking its 25th anniversary this week. “God Wants to Hear You Sing,” written by Rodney Griffin and performed by Greater Vision, has remained a staple of Christian music since its release in 1999.

In reflecting on the song’s lasting impact, songwriter Rodney Griffin shared his thoughts on why the message continues to resonate with audiences. “It’s hard to believe we’ve been singing that song for that long,” Griffin remarked. “It’s just one of those that stuck.”

The inspiration for the song came from the Biblical account of Paul and Silas singing praises at midnight while imprisoned in Philippi in Acts 16:25. This verse shows us the powerful example of Paul and Silas choosing to worship God even in the midst of their suffering, and how their faith and praise led to a miraculous earthquake and the prisoners’ chains being loosed. This teaches us the importance of praising God in all circumstances and the impact it can have on our lives and the lives of those around us.

Griffin drew parallels between Paul and Silas’ experience and modern-day challenges, noting how the act of praise can bring breakthrough in difficult circumstances.

“It just gives hurting people a source of encouragement,” Griffin explained, referencing the Apostle Paul’s exhortation to “Rejoice in the Lord always.” He pointed out how Paul and Silas demonstrated this principle through their midnight praise session, which preceded their miraculous deliverance.
The song’s theme centers on the power of praise during adversity, encouraging believers to lift their voices even in life’s darkest moments. Its message resonates with fundamental Christian teachings about maintaining faith and worship during trials.

Released in 1999 through Songs of Greater Vision, the composition has become one of Southern Gospel’s most enduring songs about praise through adversity. Its legacy continues to impact new generations of listeners, offering hope and encouragement to those facing challenging circumstances.

As the song reaches this significant milestone, its message remains as relevant today as when it first released.

Kentucky Music Hall of Fame Welcomes Gospel Songwriter Rodney Griffin

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JEFF TURNER

The Kentucky Music Hall of Fame expanded its prestigious ranks this weekend, inducting gospel music songwriter Rodney Griffin as part of its Class of 2024. The Saturday night ceremony showcased Kentucky’s continued recognition of diverse musical genres, including southern gospel.

“It was really a surprise to me,” Griffin shared about his induction. The renowned songwriter noted the Hall of Fame’s rich musical heritage, pointing out that “it’s full of country bluegrass rock and roll artists from Kentucky.”

While gospel music representatives are fewer among the inductees, Griffin expressed appreciation for the genre’s inclusion. “For them to in 2024 still recognize our genre with that honor was really nice,” he said.

Griffin, who was supported at the ceremony by his fellow Greater Vision members, sees the recognition as more than a personal achievement. He hopes it will serve a greater purpose: “It’s good to try to be a light to those who’ve never heard gospel music so if somehow through this the Lord can reach somebody then that’ll be a good thing.”

This honor adds to Griffin’s legacy in gospel music, cementing his place among Kentucky’s most influential musical artists.

Jon Epley: The Heartfelt Songwriting and Baritone Voice of Greater Vision

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JEFF TURNER

Jon Epley, the baritone singer for Greater Vision, isn’t just known for his powerful vocals. Since joining the group in April 2017, Jon has occasionally contributed his songwriting talents, adding a special touch to the group’s musical repertoire. One of his recent works, “Your Healing Is On the Way,” is Greater Vision’s newest song, offering a message of hope and comfort to those who need it most.

Though Jon doesn’t consider himself a prolific songwriter, he finds the creative process deeply rewarding. “I just don’t sit down and write a lot, but whenever I do get a chance to write a song, it’s always so fun to me for the Lord to just pour the lyrics into me,” Jon shares. His process is one of inspiration and devotion, often beginning with a moment at the piano where he explores chord progressions and melodies. “I just really enjoy the process. So I don’t do it a lot, but I enjoy it whenever I get to do it. And it’s always a blessing when the Lord does give me a song,” he adds.

Greater Vision, founded in 1990 by Gerald Wolfe, has made an indelible mark on Southern Gospel music. Known for their rich harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, the trio continues to be a leading group in the genre. Jon’s role as a songwriter adds to the group’s depth, bringing fresh, spiritually uplifting music to audiences.

With his heartfelt songwriting and steady baritone voice, Jon Epley continues to contribute to the legacy of Greater Vision, a group that remains a favorite in the world of Southern Gospel music.

Chris Allman shares about Greater Vision’s Legacy of Harmony and Hope

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JEFF TURNER

Greater Vision has been a cornerstone of Southern Gospel since December 1990 and continues to captivate audiences with their powerful message and harmonious blend today. The group has become the most awarded trio in Gospel music history since its beginning more than three decades ago.

The current lineup includes Chris Allman, Jon Epley, Rodney Griffin, and Gerald Wolfe on piano. Chris Allman, known as Gospel Music’s Favorite Tenor, is particularly significant to the group’s legacy, as he was part of the original lineup and is now in his second tenure with Greater Vision.

Reflecting on how it all began, Chris shares, “I kind of had the inside track because we were actually practicing at our church with the almonds that I sang with. And I heard tell from Savannah that there’s a new trio starting up. And it’s Mark and Gerald.” Recognizing an opportunity, Chris reached out to Mark, eager to be part of this new trio. “I got his number. I called Mark. He said, I would love to try out. And he said, well, we’re trying out this coming Monday,” Chris recalls. Despite the short notice, he was determined to make it to Morristown, Tennessee, a significant step for someone who had rarely ventured far from home. “Honestly, I don’t think I’d ever really left North Carolina or South Carolina,” Chris adds. His dedication paid off as he was “the first one to try out and then one of the last ones to come back and try out again.” The excitement of being chosen has stayed with him, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey.

Greater Vision’s influence extends beyond their recordings. They appear regularly on the InTouch television program, hosted by Dr. Charles Stanley, and the Gaither Gospel Video Series. Gerald Wolfe, the group’s founder, has also co-hosted Bill Gaither’s syndicated “Homecoming Radio” show, reaching nearly 3000 radio stations worldwide.

One of the group’s recent projects, “The Journey,” celebrates their enduring ministry with a mix of new songs and reimagined classics. Produced by Gerald Wolfe and Trey Ivey, and distributed by Daywind Records, the album is a testament to the group’s continued relevance and creativity in Gospel music.

Greater Vision’s latest song, “Your Healing Is On The Way,” adds to their legacy of inspiring and uplifting music. With over 175 performances each year, they remain a beloved and influential presence in the world of Gospel music, consistently bringing the message of the Gospel to audiences around the globe.

Listen for Your Healing is On The Way throughout the day on Texas Gospel Canada!

Gerald Wolf speaks about singing for small crowds

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SPECIAL DAYWIND RECORDS

Sunday night was a little different for Greater Vision. Gerald Wolfe explained with a post on Facebook Sunday evening.

“Tonight, we sang to the smallest crowd we’ve had in probably twenty years. It was a real blessing to see how The Lord used the evening, and the songs, to minister to those who were there. Afterward, I was encouraged again the comments I heard in the hallway. Once again, like many times before, I was reminded… Ministry is not about the “number,” it’s about the individual… The one God puts you in front of, at the right time, to share the word, or the song, they need to hear, to let them know God hasn’t forgotten them, and He has a purpose for them… and for you… and for me.”