Tag: Kingsmen

The Kingsmen: Seven Decades of Gospel Music

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TEXAS GOSPEL VOLUNTEER

The Kingsmen have been captivating audiences for over seven decades. Since their inception in 1956, this quartet has become a cornerstone of Southern Gospel music.

Alan Kendall, the current emcee and baritone of The Kingsmen, has been working on a comprehensive book about the group’s history. In his own words:
“I have been working on a book about the Kingsman and I have been working on it right about two years now. Whenever I could get the spare time to do it, it’s going to be called Decades of Music, Decades of Memories.”

This upcoming book promises to be a treasure trove of information for fans and music historians alike. Kendall explains:
“We’re covering the back stories of about 120 Kingsman songs along with a brief history of the group that my friend David Murray contributed to to the book and then a whole bunch of other pieces of history of the Kingsman several photos this book is 367 pages long so we’re very excited about this book it should be coming out in the spring if not before so stay tuned for that.”

The book’s theme aligns with the group’s recent “Decades” music releases, emphasizing the importance of their extensive song catalogue. As Kendall notes, “So many of our alumni and Ray Dean Reese himself have said it’s all about the songs.”

The release date for the book has not yet been announced.

Southern Gospel Community Unites After Hurricane Helene

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AMY TURNER

Hurricane Helene made a significant impact on Southern Gospel artists, especially those based in North Carolina and East Tennessee. While Asheville, NC, the home base of The Kingsmen, was heavily affected by the storm, Alan Kendall reassures us that all group members are safe. “The Kingsmen are thankful that all family and all property is safe. Praise the Lord for that,” Alan shared. He went on to explain how the timing of their trip to Pigeon Forge spared them from being in the direct path of the hurricane. “We were all in Pigeon Forge when the hurricane weather struck over there. So we were not in Asheville at the time. The bus was not in Asheville when all this happened.”

Alan Kendall of The Kingsmen shared with us that The Kingsmen are safe (Daywind Music Photo)

However, many others in the Southern Gospel community continue to face challenges. Kendall mentioned that The Kingsmen’s bus is currently parked at Tony Gore’s property, alongside the Troy Burns family’s bus, as both families are unable to return to their homes due to the damage. “Troy and Tammy Burns are also not able to return home right now. I believe they live in the Fletcher area,” he explained, emphasizing the need for prayers. “We want you to join us in praying for Asheville and all the surrounding communities.”

Kendall also provided updates on others in the Southern Gospel family affected by the storm. He urged fans to keep Wyatt Austin of The Inspirations in their prayers. “Wyatt has gotten home. There’s a lot of devastation in the Morganton area,” Kendall reported, noting that Wyatt had some tree damage at his residence. He also expressed concern for The Whisnants, who are based in the same area. Though they remain safe, “the Whisnants continue to be without power,” confirmed Susan Whisnant.

Another prayer request came for gospel legend Squire Parsons and his wife, Linda. “Squire obviously has some health concerns. And I don’t know what the power situation is,” Kendall noted, as uncertainty looms over the aftermath in their area.

One of the most heart-wrenching reports involved Josh Garner of The Chuck Wagon Gang. “Josh’s family, as far as we know, they are safe, but all bridges that lead to Josh’s home are gone, and he is unable to get to his family last I checked,” Kendall shared. Garner’s home in Chucky, Tennessee, has been cut off by the devastation, highlighting the extensive impact of the storm.

As these beloved artists and their families recover from the devastation of Hurricane Helene, the Southern Gospel community rallies together in prayer and support.

Cole Watson Marries His Best Friend and Celebrates New Beginnings

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AMY TURNER

Congratulations are in order for Cole Watson, lead singer of The Kingsmen Quartet, who celebrated a major life milestone this past weekend—his wedding! In a heartfelt Facebook post, Cole shared his joy, writing, “I got to marry my best friend. The one that God, The creator of all things, hand picked for me and put in my life right when I needed her most. This will forever be my greatest accomplishment! Here’s to forever babe!! I love you, Mrs. Watson.”

It’s clear that Cole is excited to start this new chapter with his wife, Brooklyn, and we wish them a lifetime of happiness together. Meanwhile, The Kingsmen’s latest song, Keep Praying For The Prodigal, continues to inspire listeners as they share their message of hope and faith. Congratulations to the happy couple!

“Unstoppable God”: A Divine Anthem Nominated for Gospel Music’s Highest Honor

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JEFF TURNER WITH INFORMATION FROM HORIZION RECORDS

(Arden, North Carolina) In the serene hills of Arden, North Carolina, a harmonious echo reverberates—a testament to faith, resilience, and the unwavering power of music. The Kingsmen, a storied quartet with a legacy etched in gospel history, stand at the threshold of greatness once again. Their song, “Unstoppable God,” has been nominated for the coveted title of Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year at this year’s Gospel Music Association Dove Awards.

The genesis of this majestic anthem lies in the heart of Chris Bryant, the group’s former lead singer. Collaborating with powerhouse co-writers Kenna Turner West and Jason Cox, Bryant crafted a lyrical masterpiece that transcends earthly boundaries. â€śUnstoppable God” soared to the pinnacle of May’s Singing News radio chart, capturing the hearts of listeners across the nation. But its impact extends far beyond airwaves—it serves as the title track of The Kingsmen’s latest album, a collection that resonates with divine affirmation.

“What a thrill! We are both surprised and grateful!” declares Alan Kendall, the baritone voice behind The Kingsmen. His words carry the weight of decades—a journey that began with their first Dove win in 1974 for â€śBig and Live.” Since then, they’ve clinched two more victories and amassed an impressive 19 nominations. The Gospel Music Association and the Dove Awards have been steadfast allies, recognizing their unwavering commitment to spreading the message of hope.

“Unstoppable God” isn’t merely a song; it’s their anthem—a celestial soundtrack that accompanies their every step. â€śFrom the moment we all heard the demo for the first time,” Kendall reflects, â€śit became our rallying cry.” Divine orchestration weaves through their story—the inexplicable alignment of circumstances, the synergy of an incredible team both onstage and off. God’s hand, they believe, is at work, reminding them that He is infinitely greater than earthly confines.

As the Dove Awards draw near, The Kingsmen stand on hallowed ground. Their voices, harmonizing with eternity, echo the truth: God is unstoppable, and His melody weaves through their lives, their music, and their legacy.

The Kingsmen celebrate No. 1 song, “Unstoppable God”

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SPECIAL Horizon & Sonlight Records

Arden, North Carolina (June 6, 2024) — Legendary quartet The Kingsmen recently stopped by the offices of Horizon Records to celebrate their No. 1 song, “Unstoppable God,” which topped May’s Singing News chart.

“What a crazy, amazing ride these last few years have been!” says The Kingsmen’s Thomas Nalley. “This song is a reminder that, through all of life’s ups and downs, our God is in control. No matter what obstacles are put in our way, His will and His power are UNSTOPPABLE!”

Horizon Records’ Greg Bentley adds, “It has been an honor for Horizon Records to represent The Kingsmen for more than 30 years now. With eight number one songs and multiple top fives through this time, The Kingsmen show no signs of slowing down. Their current lineup of Thomas Nalley, Cole Watson, Alan Kendall, Brady Jones and Ray Dean and Brandon Reese is as strong as ever — and “Unstoppable God” reaching the top spot proves that. We look forward to another 30 years representing this legacy of Gospel music!”

“Unstoppable God” is the title cut from the group’s latest album released in February. The quartet’s latest radio single from this album, “Praying For The Prodigal” is quickly climbing the charts.

Listen to Unstoppable God on Texas Gospel Canada!