Donna Ulisse’s ‘My Constant Savior’: A Song Born from Faith and Family Memories

JEFF TURNER

Donna Ulisse’s latest song, “My Constant Savior,” emerges from a deeply personal and poignant moment in her life. The track is a reflection of Ulisse’s rich musical journey and the heartfelt experiences that continue to inspire her work.

A Hampton, Virginia native, Donna Ulisse moved to Nashville in 1984, drawn by a passion for music that would shape her career. She quickly found her place on Music Row, singing demos and refining her craft, leading to a major record deal with Atlantic Records in the early 1990s. Her performances on shows like Hee Haw and Nashville Now garnered her international attention. Over time, Ulisse embraced her songwriting skills, which led her into the bluegrass genre she now cherishes, defined by its banjoes, fiddles, and mandolins.

The inspiration for “My Constant Savior” came during a deeply emotional time. Ulisse shared that the song originated from a significant memory involving her father. She recounts a particular morning: “I had bought a little farm with my husband. We call it the Wee Farm and I love that place. It’s not very big, but when we bought it, my dad and my brother came down to help us with the fixing up.” Her father, known for his tireless work ethic, woke her early one day with a list of materials for home improvements. “So dutifully, I got in my truck and started heading down our little country road. And right before I turned off our country road, the sun came up over the trees. And it was the most beautiful thing I’d ever seen.”

This moment of beauty and gratitude led Ulisse to a profound realization, capturing the essence of her song: “And this first line came to me as glorious morning. Look what God made me. And Instantly, this song started dumping out of my heart, so I pulled the truck over and I got my voice recorder out and it was coming out melody and lyric at the same time as fast as I could write it. It was a true gift.”

“My Constant Savior” reflects Ulisse’s deep connection to her faith and the meaningful moments that shape her music. The song is not only a tribute to her father’s memory but also a celebration of the divine presence she feels in her life. Through her lyrics and melody, Ulisse continues to share her journey with her listeners, blending personal reflection with her signature bluegrass sound.

Dell Hyssong’s Faith-Filled Journey to Health

JEFF TURNER

Dell Hyssong, a member of the beloved Southern Gospel trio The Hyssongs, recently experienced a health scare that tested his faith. The Hyssongs, consisting of Dell, his wife Susan, and their son Richard, have been traveling and performing together for more than 27 years, touching hearts with their music at over 225 events annually across Canada and the United States. Their latest release, There Is, continues to inspire audiences with its message of hope and trust in God.

However, just a few months ago, Dell faced a personal challenge that made the words of Proverbs 3:5-6 particularly poignant. “About three months ago, the doctor said, I think maybe you need to have some tests. Maybe you’ve got cancer, we’re not sure, but the percentages are high that you might,” Dell shared. For a man whose life and ministry are centered around his faith, this news was a moment to lean on that very faith.

Dell chose to trust in God, even when the future seemed uncertain. “I could worry, I could fret, or I could lean on God, I could trust him,” he reflected. During this period of waiting and uncertainty, Dell found strength in his faith, choosing to believe that God would guide him through whatever lay ahead.

Last Tuesday, Dell underwent an MRI, a moment that could have been filled with anxiety. But, true to his commitment to trust in the Lord, Dell faced the test with a calm spirit. The following day, he received the news he had been praying for: “Everything is benign. You don’t have cancer. You’re perfectly fine,” the doctor told him. Dell’s relief was palpable, and his gratitude was immeasurable.

Reflecting on the experience, Dell shared a moment of humor and hope: “In fact, [the doctor] said, since your mom and dad are 98 and 99, he said, I believe you’re going to live a long, long life. So you’re stuck with me for a long time. I tell that to Richard all the time. I might as well tell you.”

Dell’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of faith in the face of life’s challenges. As he continues to travel and perform with The Hyssongs, his testimony of trust in God will undoubtedly resonate with audiences everywhere. His experience serves as an encouragement to all who face uncertainties to remember the words of Proverbs and lean not on their own understanding but to trust in the Lord with all their heart.

Donnie Williamson shares about the group’s latest single Jesus Leading His Children Home

JEFF TURNER

The Williamsons have just released their latest single, “Jesus Leading His Children Home.” Written by the renowned songwriter Gerald Crabb, the song embodies the heartfelt message of faith that has been a hallmark of The Williamsons’ ministry for decades.

Donnie Williamson, who leads the group alongside his wife Lisa, shared his personal connection to the song. “We just released a song to radio titled Jesus Leading His Children Home. It was written by a man who I consider to be one of the greatest songwriters in my lifetime, Brother Gerald Crabb. I have to admit the first thing to catch my attention when I heard the song was its style. But as I listened, I loved it even more because of its message.” This message resonates deeply with Donnie and the group’s mission, which has always been to share the Gospel through music, uplifting Christians, and reaching the lost.

The Williamsons’ journey in Southern Gospel music began in 1969, when Woody and Pinky Williamson, along with their children Donnie and Tennie, started performing in concerts and revival meetings across Oklahoma and neighboring states. After a brief rebranding as The Homesteaders Quartet, the group officially became The Williamsons in 2008, solidifying their place in the Southern Gospel community. Today, the group consists of Donnie, Lisa, their daughters Sadie and Olivia, as well as Darin Hebert and Bo Chesser, Lisa’s brother.

Over the years, The Williamsons have not only garnered numerous awards and hit songs but have also made a significant impact through their evangelistic efforts. Their mission statement, which emphasizes spreading the Gospel through music, is more than just words—it is the driving force behind everything they do. Their dedication to this mission has led them to perform across the United States and even in countries like the Philippines, Nicaragua, and Kenya, where they have witnessed thousands of lives changed.

Reflecting on the song’s powerful message, Donnie added, “In this life, Christians follow Jesus, even though we don’t always know where he’s going to lead us in the short term, but we know our final destination is home, where we’ll spend eternity with him. Just remember, following Christ isn’t always easy, and he never said it would be, but we stay the course because we know Jesus is leading his children home.”

The release of “Jesus Leading His Children Home” continues the group’s legacy of producing music that not only entertains but also ministers to the hearts of listeners. With a discography that includes multiple #1 songs and top-charting hits, The Williamsons have consistently delivered music that resonates with audiences both in the U.S. and around the world. Their latest album, Give Them Jesus, has already produced several top-20 songs, cementing their status as one of Southern Gospel’s premier groups.

As they continue to tour and release new music, The Williamsons remain committed to their calling. Their passion for spreading the Gospel through song shines through in every performance, and “Jesus Leading His Children Home” is yet another testament to their unwavering faith and dedication to their ministry.

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

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!

Sarah Davison of High Road and Husband Trevor Expecting First Child, Embrace the Joy of Surprise!

DAYWIND RECORDS

Sarah Davision of High Road and her husband Trevor are expecting their first child.

Sarah shared their excitement saying, “Trevor and I were so surprised and we are so blessed with a new little bundle of joy coming into our lives this December. And we appreciate everyone’s prayers. We are so, so excited.”

But don’t expect a fancy gender-reveal event.

“We’re not finding out if it’s a boy or girl. So that makes it kind of fun that we’re going to be surprised. And December truly can’t come fast enough. So thanks y ‘all for praying for us,” said Sarah.

Congratulations to Sarah and Trevor!