Tag: Sound Street

Sound Street’s “Pray, Pray, Pray” encourages children to talk to Jesus

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SPECIAL CROSSROADS MUSIC

Arden, North Carolina (September 19, 2025) — The latest single from Sonlite Records’ Sound Street might have some of the flavors of a contemporary children’s song, and it’s led by 9-year-old Johanna Vanderslice, but “Pray, Pray, Pray” affirms in its lyrics a message that every age can appreciate:

Provided to YouTube by Syntax Creative Pray, Pray, Pray · Sound Street Pray, Pray, Pray ℗ 2025 Sonlite Records Released on: 2025-09-19

Pray, pray, pray, Have a little talk with Jesus
Pray, pray, pray, On and on without ceasin’
Lay it all before Him, every night and morning
He’s gonna make a way
So pray, pray, pray
Pray

“We are beyond excited,” enthuses father Jarrod Vanderslice, who leads the trio with daughter, Jaylie, and third member, Ryan Bilbey, “for this powerful reminder that no matter the time, place, or situation, we never have to worry or fret… we can always PRAY!

“This release is extra special because it features Johanna — my daughter and baby sister to Jaylie. You may remember her small but sweet debut in our version of ‘I’m So Blessed’… but this time, the song is all hers! From the very first note, Johanna’s voice doesn’t just sing — it connects. Her ability to communicate the heart of this song is beyond her years and absolutely captivating.”

Indeed, Johanna’s conviction shines through in her endearing delivery, while producer/pianist Roger Talley leads the backing ensemble through the song’s irresistible musical signature and cheery melody to create a memorable setting.

Says Jarrod, “We hope ‘Pray, Pray, Pray’ encourages you the way we teach our own children — to talk to Jesus about everything, anytime, anywhere!”

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

Oklahoma Trio Sound Street Transforms Beloved Worship Anthem Goodness of God Into Intimate Musical Experience

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JEFF TURNER

The Oklahoma-based gospel trio Sound Street’s new project is taking a decidedly different direction from their recent Dixieland-influenced track. The group has turned their attention to reimagining one of contemporary Christian music’s most cherished worship songs.

This new endeavor represents a significant departure from the upbeat, traditional sound that characterized their previous work. Instead of building on that momentum, Sound Street has chosen to explore quieter, more contemplative musical territory with their version of the 2023 Dove Award-recognized composition that has become a modern worship standard.

“Goodness of God” wins Song Of The Year at the 54th Annual GMA Dove Awards in Nashville, TN.

The decision to record this particular song stems from years of live performance experience. The trio has been incorporating the worship anthem into their concerts and ministry events for four years, witnessing firsthand how audiences respond to its message of faith.

Working alongside producer Roger Talley, Sound Street crafted an arrangement that prioritizes accessibility and emotional resonance. Talley, who also provided keyboard accompaniment for the recording, helped the trio develop a musical approach that feels authentic to their artistic identity while serving the song’s spiritual purpose. The production philosophy centered on creating space for listeners to engage with the worship experience, regardless of their physical location or circumstances.

The recording showcases the vocal talents of Jaylie Vanderslice, the youngest member of the three-person ensemble. Her delivery carries a remarkable confidence that goes beyond her years, acknowledging her relative youth while affirming her deep conviction.

The musical arrangement, including cello work by session musician David Johnson, enhances rather than overshadows the message.

Sound Street consists of Jarrod Vanderslice, his daughter Jaylie, and longtime family friend Ryan Bilby. Since forming in July 2020, the trio has built a substantial following within southern gospel circles.

Listen for Goodness of God on Texas Gospel Canada!

Sound Street brings a bit of NOLA jazz to a classic gospel song

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SPECIAL CROSSROADS RECORDS

Arden, North Carolina (June 20, 2025) — The latest single from last year’s full-length Good Seed is just hitting the Southern Gospel charts, but Sonlite Records’ Sound Street have been busy bringing new music to their growing legion of fans since the beginning of the year — and this time, the family based trio of dad Jarrod Vanderslice, daughter Jaylie, and their colleague Ryan Bilby, has served up a venerable classic with a creative new sound.

“Get ready for a fresh take on an old favorite,” enthuses Jarrod Vanderslice. “Sound Street is thrilled to release our new streaming single, ‘I Want to Know More About My Lord’ — but with a twist you’ve never heard before!”

“Ryan has always loved this classic Redback hymn,” he continues, “and he had a vision for it that took it straight to the streets of New Orleans. When he shared that idea with the group and our producer, Roger Talley, the wheels started turning. What if we took this beloved gospel song and gave it a full-on NOLA jazz treatment? That’s exactly what we did!”

Sure enough, from its irresistible opening, “I Want To Know More About My Lord” shines with its cheerful orchestration, lending an extra lift to an arrangement that offers each member of the trio a chance to claim the spotlight amid intricate harmonization that reflects the song’s origins in the legendary Stamps Quartet catalog.

“With a strummin’ banjo, lively trumpet, soulful clarinet, and a brass section that’ll make you feel like you’re strolling through the French Quarter,” Vanderslice concludes, “this energetic arrangement brings a brand-new vibe to a timeless message. It’s fun, it’s uplifting, and most importantly — it reminds us all to keep seeking and knowing more about Jesus. Give it a listen, sing along, and let the joy of the Lord move you!”Listen to “I Want To Know More About My Lord”HERE.

Discover ‘Man on the Middle Cross’ by Sound Street

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SPECIAL CROSSROADS RECORDS

Arden, North Carolina (May 23, 2025) — “We’re so excited to share our next streaming release, ‘Man on the Middle Cross,'” says Jarrod Vanderslice of Sonlite Records’ Sound Street. “This song found its way to us in an unexpected but special way: Debra Talley, wife of our producer Roger Talley, mentioned it to us as a song worth considering. To be honest, we weren’t very familiar with it at first—but the moment we listened to the original version, we knew it was something special. The message gripped us immediately, and we felt it would be a powerful addition to our music catalog.”
That original version, sung by co-writer Rhett Walker, was strong enough to earn a recent Dove Award nomination for Bluegrass/Country/Roots Recorded Song of the Year, and the Southern Gospel trio leans, with Talley’s help, even more strongly into the song’s country roots, swapping the original’s darker textures and grittier tones for airier, more acoustic touches and framing the clarity of Jarrod Vanderslice’s lead vocal with vivid harmonies from daughter Jaylee Vanderslice and family friend Ryan Bilby. From start to finish, Sound Street’s take on “Man on the Middle Cross” transforms an already powerful song into a moving celebration of Christ’s gift to sinners.

“The story behind this song is one we can all relate to,” says Jarrod. “On the day of Jesus’ crucifixion, two men hung beside Him—two sinners, two different responses. One was broken and full of regret, recognizing his need for mercy. The other was hardened, defensive, and convinced it was too late for him. If we’re honest, at some point in life, we’ve all been like one of those men. We’ve all faced moments of fear, regret, or the feeling of being too far gone. But then—there’s Jesus. The Man on the Middle Cross. The One who took the worst of us and gave us the best of Himself. The One who made a way for redemption, no matter who we are or what we’ve done.

Musically, this song has a fresh, modern country feel, blending heartfelt storytelling with a melody that stays with you long after the final note. It’s the kind of song that not only fits our style but truly reflects the heart of what we want to share—hope, grace, and the life-changing power of Jesus Christ. We can’t wait for you to hear it.”

Listen to “Man on the Middle Cross” HERE.

About Sound Street
Oklahoma-based trio Sound Street is Jarrod Vanderslice, his daughter Jaylie Vanderslice and long-time family friend Ryan Bilby.

Established in July of 2020, Sound Street has garnered the attention of southern gospel music fans and tastemakers alike. The trio was selected out of the Regional Artist Showcase to perform on the Main Stage during the National Quartet Convention in 2021 and was nominated in the top 10 for favorite new artist 2022’s Singing News Fan Awards. Their radio single “I’ll Take The Old Highway” peaked at #34 on SGNScoops Magazine’ Top 100 and “The Old Story” debuted at #67 on Singing News’ March 2022 chart.

Performing more than 80 dates a year, Sound Street has been inspiring and communicating the message of the Gospel through their music to all audiences.

Exploring the Message of “The God You Are”: A Reflection on Surrender, Faith, and Identity in God

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STEVE MORGAN

When Sound Street was searching for music for their project Good Seed in 2023, lead vocalist Jaylie Vanderslice recalls that the group was looking for songs with a personal connection—songs that moved listeners on a deeper level. That search led them to “The God You Are,” written by Adina Bowman, Wendy Ferguson, and Rhonda Fry.

“In 2023, when we were searching for new songs to put on our new project at the time, Good Seed, we were searching for songs that I could relate to and I could really connect with,” Vanderslice shared. “And we weren’t having much luck until Adina Bowman sent us a song… from the moment that I heard the intro I fell in love with it and it was ‘The God You Are.’”

Now performed by Southbound, “The God You Are” continues to carry the emotional weight that Vanderslice described. The lyrics are centered on surrendering personal control, affirming God’s attributes, and aligning one’s will with divine purpose. The bridge—highlighted by Vanderslice as her favorite section—reads:

“The God of salvation, of mercy and grace,
The God of all power, you’re still God today.”

These lines enforce the song’s central message: the enduring and unchanging nature of God’s power, mercy, and authority. In the broader context of the song, this declaration follows a personal plea for help, beginning with uncertainty and vulnerability:

“I know you can do what no one else can do.
And I know that you can see just what I’m going through.
So why do I still fight this fight alone
When I should know by now that I can’t make it on my own?”

There is a struggle between human instinct for self-reliance and the spiritual call to trust. The words acknowledges God’s omnipotence and insight, but still confesses to wrestling with the need for control. The chorus follows with a deliberate act of surrender:

“So give me faith to step out of the way.
Surrender my whole life enough to say
I lay it all here at your feet.
I trust with all my heart,
Believing you to be the God you are.”

This is both a prayer and a declaration, shifting from uncertainty to resolve. It marks a turning point in the song—an active decision to yield to divine authority. It underscores a recurring theme in Southern Gospel music: that of personal transformation through trust in a higher power.

The song closes by repeating its key affirmation: “Believing you to be the God you are.”

Vanderslice’s reflection on singing the bridge—particularly her emotional response. “The God of salvation, like he saved me and he’s saved people who thought that they’re too far gone,” she said. “But you’re never too far gone for God.”