The Powerful Collaboration Behind ‘Man On The Middle Cross’

AMY TURNER

Scotty Inman recently released his latest single, Man On The Middle Cross, a heartfelt song that delves into themes of redemption, grace, and salvation. Featuring the powerful vocals of Jason Crabb and Charlotte Ritchie, the song has meaningful lyrics, reflecting the central Christian message of finding hope through Jesus.

Ephesians 2:8-9 tells us, “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” NASB. In Man On The Middle Cross, Inman speaks to the universal longing for salvation and the realization that human efforts alone cannot secure a place in heaven. The lyrics highlight the importance of faith in Christ, with lines that emphasize grace and the sacrifice of Jesus as the only way to find redemption. The chorus, in particular, underscores this message, as Inman sings:

“My only prayer, my only plea / The only hope for a sinner like me / There was a price I couldn’t pay / But Jesus did and HE’s the only way.”

This especially reflects the verse in Ephesians which teaches that salvation is a gift from God, available through faith and the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The verse and the song together affirm that our hope and redemption lie not in our own merit but solely in the grace extended by Jesus—the “man on the middle cross.”

The collaboration with Jason Crabb and Charlotte Ritchie brings an added dimension to the song, as both artists are celebrated in gospel and Christian music for their passionate and soulful singing. Scotty Inman has expressed his admiration for Ritchie’s talent, noting the significant role her voice plays in enhancing the song’s impact. In his words:

“I’ve always been a huge fan of Charlotte Ritchie. I love her voice. I love her spirit. We asked her, ‘Would you sing the third part on this?’ And she said, ‘Absolutely.’ And it was the right touch on that song to have her singing it. And of course, anytime you get Jason Crabb on a song, it just goes to another level.”

The lyrics of Man On The Middle Cross convey a humble acknowledgment of human imperfections and a celebration of divine grace. The song opens with verses that reflect on the different ways people hope to reach heaven, while also recognizing the insufficiency of simply “doing good.” Inman’s lyrics confess that despite our best efforts, we all carry “baggage” and imperfections, and that without Christ, we could never be “good enough.” He sings:

“Lots of folks got lots of ways
Hoping to make it through those pearly gates
Just do some good, live like they should
Trusting that’s all it’s gonna take

But I know me, all my baggage, all my stuff
I’ll never be good enough”

The lyrics reminder the listener of the Biblical truth of salvation through Jesus.

Scotty Inman Performs “Motel Bible” with The Isaacs on the Grand Ole Opry Stage

JEFF TURNER

In a momentous evening this past Wednesday, October 30th, Scotty Inman brought his latest song, “Motel Bible,” to life on the iconic Grand Ole Opry stage, joined by The Isaacs. This performance marked a significant milestone for Inman as he performed the final single from his solo album, My God, which debuted in March 2024.

The song, co-written by Levi and Jimmy Leigh Erie, holds personal significance for Inman. Reflecting on the moment, Inman shared, “I got a phone call from Levi with The Isaacs. He said, ‘What are you doing Wednesday night, October the 30th?’ And I said, ‘I have no idea.’ He said, ‘Well, if you’re free, you’re singing Motel Bible on the Opry.’ And I was like, ‘Are you kidding me?’”

For Inman, who has long considered The Isaacs both friends and inspirations, the invitation was a moment of fulfillment. “Man, the Isaacs have always been huge encouragers and great friends to me,” he continued. “The fact I got to sing it on the stage there is literally a dream come true.”

The evening brought together country, gospel, and bluegrass fans, all eager to experience a heartfelt performance that celebrates storytelling and faith. Inman’s collaboration with The Isaacs for “Motel Bible” added a personal layer to a song that’s already resonating with fans of his new album.

Scotty Inman Departs Triumphant Quartet; Focuses on Solo Career

SPECIAL: STOWTOWN RECORDS

Nashville, TN (July 8, 2023) – To everything there is a season. For the past two decades, Scotty Inman has been blessed with the privilege of traveling as part of the award-winning group, Triumphant Quartet. This season has brought much joy and fulfillment, both from a professional standpoint, as well as personally. “Over half my life has been spent with the greatest men I know. They say you are who you hang around, and I hit the jackpot with Triumphant,” shares Scotty Inman. “Men of integrity, consistency and class…not just in music, but in life itself.”

From the group’s beginnings in 2003, when four outstanding vocalists graced the stage in Pigeon Forge, TN for the first time together, to making the decision to tour the country in 2008, Triumphant has continued time and again to raise the bar of producing music with the highest excellence, all while remaining steadfast in their core values. That dedication, along with the grace of God, has yielded GRAMMY nominations, a Dove Award, numerous fan awards and number one songs at radio.

However, over the last few years, Scotty Inman has felt God leading him into a new season of life. A decision such as this is never simple or easy to make, especially when it entails leaving a group that is family; but at this time, it is necessary. Moving into 2024 and beyond, Scotty will shift his focus to recording and traveling as a solo artist, which will, in turn, allow much needed flexibility in his schedule.

“This is not a ‘going home to spend more time with my family’ type of announcement,” explains Scotty. “Mainly because that implies that those of us who travel for a living do not spend time with our families, which is not true. However, what I do know is that I have a deep desire to be even more involved in my kids’ lives at these crucial ages. They are growing up quickly, and I want to be at as many ballgames and recitals as I can.”

Scotty continues, “As some of you know, my wife and I recently helped plant a church along with a pastor friend and small group of couples. At that church, I serve as the co-worship leader, as well as a deacon. Serving more frequently at my home church and being in attendance to fulfill my duties are a few things that have been laid on my heart in a huge way.”

While Scotty looks forward to making the most of his time with his family, this does not mean that music will take a backseat. “I’m not done singing, and in many ways, I feel as though I’ve only just begun! By traveling as a soloist, I’ll be able to pursue the calling that the Lord has placed on my life, but with a less demanding schedule. I plan on seeing everyone down the road sooner rather than later!”

Eric Bennett conveys the group’s sincere gratitude, “We will forever be grateful for Scotty’s time and devotion to Triumphant. His creativity, passion and love for the Gospel has helped create what Triumphant is today.” Although things may change, remnants of Scotty’s influence will always be seen and felt as Triumphant continues its ministry in the coming years.”

“Scotty has been a much-loved and respected member of this family,” says David Sutton, the tenor singer for Triumphant. “We all understand and share in the calling of ministry in varying capacities. As such, we are fully supportive of Scotty and this new endeavor.”

“We’ve always encouraged our kids to never be afraid of expanding their borders,” Clayton Inman recalls. “Scotty has been with Triumphant for twenty years. As both his dad and a group member, I’m extremely grateful for that. At the same time, his mom and I are excited for the world to see everything Scotty has to offer for years to come.”

Inevitably, Scotty will leave behind big shoes to fill. While the group vows to exercise prayerful consideration and discernment during the interview process, the members appreciate Scotty’s willing participation during this time of transition. His involvement in the selection process highlights the impact of the quartet’s ministry and the quality of relationships formed during those years. All serious inquiries for the lead/baritone position should be emailed to landon@imcconcerts.com.

Scotty will continue to appear as part of Triumphant Quartet through the end of the year. A transition such as this one is not to be taken lightly, and Scotty wants to make the change as smooth as possible for each and every person involved. He shares, “Please pray for me and my family during this transition, as well as my favorite group of guys, Triumphant, as they move forward. I know God has great things in store for them!”

To stay up-to-date on current happenings, follow Scotty Inman on social media or visit scottyinman.com.

Highly-Anticipated Solo Debut from Scotty Inman

SPECIAL MAIN STREET MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT

Nashville, TN (May 13th, 2022) – Music runs through Scotty Inman’s veins. A second-generation vocalist, Scotty’s music career has taken him around the world and allowed him the share the message of Christ on stages that many only dream of.   While his nearly two decade tenure with the fan-favorite Triumphant Quartet has afforded him opportunities and accolades too numerous to count, the four-time BMI awarded singer/songwriter found himself with a considerable catalog of songs personal to him; songs about faith, family and life.  These songs birthed the inspiration behind his debut solo release, Anywhere Jesus Is.

“I have been blessed to have cuts by not only Triumphant, but several other artists within the genre. However, I realized that some of the songs were messages that I needed to share myself,” shares Scotty Inman.  “A solo project is the perfect opportunity to speak my heart and produce music that might not fit the mold of what I do with Triumphant, but I’m excited to branch out and let listeners get a glimpse into another side of who I am!”

Anywhere Jesus Is, produced by Josh Swift (The Isaacs, Doyle Lawson), features 10 songs all co-written by Inman including the first single, ‘Grow Up Slow.’  Listeners will love the upbeat tune of ‘Saved People,’ and feel at home with the title track, ‘Anywhere Jesus Is.’  Country music fans will recognize the voice of legend John Anderson, who joins Scotty on ‘Good Enough For Me,’ and love the acoustic vibe of ‘God Made Good,’  Regardless of musical styles or preferences, there is literally something for everyone on this incredible project!

In celebration of the release of Anywhere Jesus Is, Scotty Inman has released his next single to radio, entitled ‘Saved People.’ This fun, engaging song contains a simple but poignant message: Saved people, serve people. Served people get saved. From the pen of Scotty and Jimmy Yeary, this new single will not only have listeners singing along, but serve as a daily reminder to be the hands and feet of Christ.

The liner notes of Anywhere Jesus Is contain a whos whos list of co-writers, including Jimmy Yeary, Tony Wood, Scott Krippayne, Lee Black, Nathan Woodard and others, but each song is uniquely personal to Scotty and intentional about the message he wishes to convey.  Not often does a project come along with no filler songs, nothing to skip past to get to the good part. But Anywhere Jesus Is is just that. 

Anywhere Jesus Is is available for purchase on all digital & streaming platforms, as well as scottyinman.com 

To stay up-to-date on current happenings, follow Scotty Inman on social media, or visit scottyinman.com.

Scotty Inman debut single now playing on Texas Gospel Canada

SPECIAL: MAINSTREET MUSIC

Nashville, TN (February 1st, 2022) –The debut single from Scotty Inman’s upcoming solo project is available on all digital & streaming platforms today!

Entitled ‘Grow Up Slow,’ Sonya Isaacs Yeary & Rebecca Isaacs Bowman joined forces with Scotty to pen this must-have single, which conveys a father’s wish for his children in a way that every parent and grandparent can relate. 

The accompaning music video will also make it’s debut along with the single across social media platforms, an be available for download digitally.

“I wrote ‘Grow Up Slow’ specifically about my two kids, however I feel as though it is the heart of every parent.  Getting to, not only write this song with Sonya Isaacs Yeary & Becky Isaacs Bowman for my kids, but also being able to feature them in this music video has been incredible,” adds Inman.

The release of the full-length project, Anywhere Jesus Is, is slated for May 13th.