Tag: Southern Gospel Radio

Elevate Your Thoughts: Embracing God’s Standards

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FLOYD ROGERS

The way a person thinks shapes the direction of their life. The mind acts like a guide, a warning light, and a decision-maker all at once. Every choice made and every action taken comes from thoughts formed in the heart and mind. Because of this, each person is responsible for what they allow themselves to think about.

God holds His people accountable for both their thoughts and the way those thoughts lead them to live. It is important to protect the mind by being careful about what is seen, heard, and accepted. Not everything the world offers is suitable for those who belong to God.

Since God’s Spirit lives within believers and Jesus is part of their lives, worldly ways and influences no longer fit with who they are. Believers are called to a different, higher standard of thinking and living.

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Romans 12:2

Down East Boys Join StowTown Records Artist Roster

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SPECIAL STOWTOWN RECORDS

Nashville, TN – One of Christian music’s leading record labels, StowTown Records, has announced the addition of popular quartet, the Down East Boys, to their artist roster. The debut release from the group under the StowTown label is expected to be released this fall, just in time for gospel music’s premier event, the National Quartet Convention, which is set to take place in September.

Since their inception in 1985, the Down East Boys have been making great music and sharing that music with audiences across the country. A mainstay in the gospel music world, their name is synonymous with classic quartet harmony and songs that have stood the test of time. Under the leadership of longtime lead vocalist and manager, Ricky Carden, their music has consistently topped radio charts, as they have enjoyed such popular hits as “Beautiful Valley,” “Beat Up Bible,” “Testimony Time,” “What Love,” “Something To Shout About” and their most recent Top 20 hit, “Mercy River.”

StowTown President and CEO Landon Beene shared his excitement about the signing, “StowTown is thrilled to be partnering with the Down East Boys, and we couldn’t be happier to welcome them to our incredible family of artists. I’ve known Ricky Carden for many years, and I love his innovative spirit and heart for ministry! We’re excited about what the future holds with this great group.”

Carden agrees with Beene and says the quartet is also excited about the future and looking forward to producing great music with the StowTown team. “We are honored to become a part of such a great roster of talented artists in gospel music. StowTown has always been at the forefront of our industry as a record label, and we are excited to now call StowTown home. Landon Beene and I have been friends for over 30 years and now, for the first time, we have the opportunity to work together to create and share our music.”

Be on the lookout for new music from the Down East Boys at digital and retail outlets. Additional information regarding The Down East Boys is available online at http://www.downeastboys.com.

Did Jesus say he would remove all of your struggles?

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FLOYD ROGERS

Some people think of Jesus as someone they can hand their troubles to and then walk away, hoping He’ll simply take their problems away. They believe that through prayer, fasting, or certain actions, they can leave their burdens with Him and be free of them. But when did Jesus tell us he would remove our struggles while we stand aside?

Doesn’t the Bible teach that we are called to surrender our whole selves to Him? We should accept His authority and place our lives fully under His care. When we do this, we come under His yoke — a symbol of submission and partnership. In this relationship, Jesus carries the true weight, while we walk alongside Him in obedience.

This kind of surrender isn’t harsh or cruel. In fact, it’s a blessing. To submit to God’s will is to belong to a master who only desires what is good and beneficial for us.

But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life.

Romans 6:22

Why Christians Embrace the Cross as a Symbol

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AMY TURNER

Throughout history, different faiths and belief systems have chosen symbols to represent what they stand for. Christians, however, chose one of the most unlikely symbols: a cross. In ancient times, the cross was a tool of public shame, suffering, and death. It seems unusual that followers of Jesus would cling to such a painful image when they could have chosen a manger, an empty tomb, or a dove, each carrying their own powerful meaning.

Yet, the cross lies at the heart of Christian belief. It was on the cross that Jesus carried the weight of humanity’s sin. As recorded in John 19:16-17, Jesus was taken away to be crucified, carrying his own cross to a place called Golgotha. The Apostle Paul once declared that he would boast only in the cross of Jesus Christ, for it stands as the place where God’s holiness meets human failure.

To some, the cross is foolishness; to others, it remains a sacred mystery. It is where divine mercy covers human wrongdoing. As we remember the crucifixion, each person should pause and consider: What does the cross mean to you?

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Romans 5:8

Harold Reed Returns as Tenor Vocalist for The Kingsmen

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JEFF TURNER

The legendary Kingsmen Quartet has announced a significant and heartfelt addition to their current lineup, welcoming back veteran tenor vocalist Harold Reed. The news broke on July 5 at the Singing in the Smokies event, where Reed made his official return to the group — a move that has delighted both fans and members of the ensemble alike.

After much prayer, reflection, and unexpected turns along the way, the Kingsmen expressed their excitement about having Harold rejoin their ranks. Reed, who was previously a member of the group throughout the 2000s, became known for standout performances on fan favourites such as “I Knew It Was Him” and the #1 classic “God Saw a Cross.”

Alan Kendall, Kingsmen baritone and stage manager, shared the story behind Reed’s return: “We were thrilled when Harold simply agreed to fill in with us while we searched for a tenor. We immediately felt a great chemistry and camaraderie with Harold, and he eased back into his former post so naturally. Little did we know that Harold was wrestling with the calling to return to singing full-time.”

Following several weeks of prayerful consideration and conversations with his wife Katie, Reed confirmed his decision to rejoin the Kingsmen during the recent Squire Parsons Memorial event. Kendall continued, “Not only does Harold match the youth and energy of Cole Watson and Brady Jones with his more than 35 years of experience in gospel music, but he’s also brought a level of spiritual wisdom and discernment that has enriched our performances. We couldn’t be happier to welcome him back.”

For his part, Harold Reed shared his heartfelt enthusiasm about the decision. “When I left the road and quit singing several years ago, I would never have imagined that I’d be back out here. When the door opened again with the Kingsmen, I offered to fill in — something else I never thought I’d do. I was nervous and excited at the same time! The Lord finally made it overwhelmingly clear to me and Katie that this was the right time. It’s an honour and a privilege that after more than 30 years, I can come back and again sing with my all-time favourite group.”

Reed also expressed excitement about being part of the Kingsmen’s 70th anniversary celebrations, which are quickly approaching in 2026. The group is in the final stages of preparing a commemorative anniversary album, a special tour, and a documentary directed by Evan Bradford. In addition, Kingsmen alumnus Bryan Hutson and gospel music enthusiast Josh Griffin have launched a new podcast, Behind the Crown, dedicated to the history and ongoing journey of the Kingsmen Quartet.

Ray Dean Reese, Kingsmen owner, Hall of Famer, and 58-year veteran of the group, shared his reflections on this new chapter: “Even now, as I spend more time relaxing at home, I still sit in my office, work a little bit, and reflect on God’s many blessings over the years. I am so proud and excited about today’s group of Kingsmen. Brandon, Alan, Cole, Brady, and Harold… What a team to carry us forward!”

The Kingsmen also took time to express their sincere appreciation to Blake Buffin, Landon Farris, and Devin Smith for stepping in during this period of transition. Special thanks were extended to Jonny Baker of the Melodyaires Quartet for his invaluable support.

As the Kingsmen look ahead to their milestone anniversary, fans of Southern Gospel music can anticipate new music, fresh stories, and timeless classics delivered by a group that continues to inspire with faith, heart, and harmony.

For more information about upcoming tour dates, the anniversary album, or the Behind the Crown podcast, visit the Kingsmen’s official website or follow them on social media.