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Dottie Leonard Miller’s Legacy Celebrated in Memorial Service

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AMY TURNER

The founder of New Day and Daywind, Dottie Leonard Miller, was honored last Monday evening during a celebration of her life, bringing together many artists whose careers she influenced. The memorial service featured performances by several prominent gospel music groups, including Brian Free & Assurance, Greater Vision, Karen Peck & New River, and Autumn Nelon Streetman.

Billy Blackwood of The Blackwood Brothers, who maintained a close relationship with the Leonard family, shared meaningful insights about Miller’s impact on the gospel music industry. “Dottie’s vision was a magnet, and her passion drew artists to her vision,” Blackwood reflected. “Practically, everyone here today is a testimony to the reality of that vision.”

Miller’s influence extended far beyond the business aspects of the music industry. As Blackwood noted, “She collected friends and artists who would match her vision for spreading the gospel. And because she faithfully followed her calling, millions of songs in Christian products have touched lives around the world.”

Her dedication to spreading the gospel message through music created a lasting impact. “Her legacy is a testament to her determination, her faith, and her deep commitment to spread the message of the gospel,” Blackwood concluded.

Inspiration Behind the Steele’s song ‘On the King’s Shoulders’

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AMY TURNER

Brad Steele of The Steels took some time to be interviewed by Texas Gospel about thegroup’s new song, “On the King’s Shoulders.”

“On the King’s Shoulders is a song that was written by me and my dad,” Steele explained.

He told us the inspiration for the song came from an unexpected source. “We wrote this a few years ago after a sermon he had preached around Christmas time, ironically, where he talked about the portion of Scripture that says he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Prince of Peace, Everlasting Father and the government will be on his shoulders,” Steele recounted.

The sermon sparked an idea that would eventually become the core message of the song. Steele continued, “He talked about in that sermon, all of the different things that we can put on his shoulders, all of the different things that he can take, he can take the load on his shoulders. And that gave the idea for on the King’s shoulders”

Like many inspired songs, it didn’t take long from start to finish. “So we wrote the song, and it was really a short co-write, only took about an hour-and-a-half, I would say, to write the song. Really just came natural,” Steele said

The Steeles had a clear vision for the song’s style and impact. “We wanted it to be a toe-tapper. Wanted it to be a fast, upbeat song that people could enjoy,” Steele shared.

However, beyond the catchy melody, there’s a profound message. “And of course, the message that people take away is that you know, whatever you’re going through in your life, whatever’s going on in our world and in our nation, he can bear the weight. He can take the weight of whatever is weighing you down on his shoulders”

The lyrics reflect this message of comfort and support. Lines such as “Each burden has a resting place. Every heartache has a home where worries all get much lighter because he will carry the load” encapsulate the song’s theme

The song also touches on the idea of perspective, with lyrics like “Jesus sees a grain of sand when we just see a boulder”

This imagery encourages listeners to trust in God to handle their problems.

For those facing unexpected challenges, the song offers reassurance: “If a storm has surprised you, there’s someone walking beside you. He has power in his hand, and he will help you stand”

Listen for On the King’s Shoulders throughout the day on Texas Gospel Canada!

Old Time Preachers Quartet Announces Final Performance

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AMY TURNER

The Old Time Preachers Quartet, based in Nashville, Tennessee, has announced their retirement after a decade-long run. The group, founded in 2016, will conclude with a final performance in 2026.

Les Butler, owner of the quartet, stated that the group’s mission was to combine preaching and singing in the traditional style.

“God had a plan and a time,” Butler said. “We have tried our best to execute on that plan.”

The decision to retire comes as two members of the group, Tim Owens and Lee McNeill, have taken on pastoral roles, making Sunday travel unfeasible. Adam Borden, another member, is now engaged in full-time evangelism with a busy schedule. Butler himself cited the growing success of his other ventures, including Butler Music Group, Family Music Group, and REAL Southern Gospel Radio, as factors in the decision. He emphasized the broader reach and impact of these ministries compared to the quartet’s travels.

Reflecting on the group’s legacy, Butler expressed gratitude to all past and present members, including Mike Holcomb, Jeremy Ballinger, Bob Sellers, and Isaac Moore. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by their families and thanked the pastors and promoters who supported their ministry.

The Old Time Preachers Quartet will honour most of their scheduled performances for 2025 and early 2026. Their final dates include appearances at the Spring Jubilee in Ringgold, Georgia, and Hullender Farms in Apison, Tennessee, in 2025, with their last scheduled performance at Teays Valley Baptist Church in West Virginia in January 2026.

Fans can continue to purchase the group’s CDs and USBs through their website after the retirement.

Gospel Musician and Evangelist Nancy Harmon Passes Away

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AMY TURNER

Nancy Harmon, renowned gospel musician and evangelist known for her passionate ministry and musical contributions, has died. Her passing was announced early this morning by her ministry, with her death occurring around 4 a.m.

A Facebook post by her ministry says, “Although my heart is broken, what rejoicing is going on right now in the Heavenlies. Our beautiful Nancy Harmon made her home going this morning around 4 a.m. No more pain, no more Alzheimer, no more struggles…nothing but joy and peace. I will miss you all my days, but I’ll see you soon. Go rest high, Love Special Lady! Arrangements will be made at a later date. Right now we are simply resting and thanking God for this beautiful gift.”

Harmon was a lifelong musician who dedicated her career to religious music and ministry. Beginning her musical journey at age 18, she played the organ in churches across multiple cities, including Kansas City, Missouri, and later expanded her ministry to locations such as San Jose, California, Portland, Oregon, and the Dallas Fort Worth area.

In 2022, Harmon received recognition for her contributions when she was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Kenneth Copeland Bible College. She was particularly known for her song “More Than Anything in My Life,” which was said to capture her deep spiritual devotion.

Throughout her career, Harmon was supported by prominent religious leaders, including Pastors George and Terri Pearsons at Eagle Mountain Church and Kenneth and Gloria Copeland. Her ministry emphasized music as a vehicle for spiritual teaching and guidance.

Harmon believed her musical calling was predetermined, stating that God placed a song in her heart from the moment of her birth. She was remembered for her compassionate approach to ministry and her ability to touch people’s lives through music and faith.

Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date by her ministry.

Veteran Gospel Trio Paid In Full Releases New Album “Louder”

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JEFF TURNER

Southern gospel trio Paid In Full has unveiled the trio’s latest studio album, “Louder,” in collaboration with StowTown Records. The release marks the group’s second project with the label, following their 30th anniversary digital release in 2021.

Distributed exclusively by Provident/Sony, Louder is available on all digital platforms worldwide.

The album, produced by 41-time Dove Award winner Wayne Haun, features six tracks written by renowned industry songwriters. Standout songs include “I Can’t Do It By Myself,” which explores themes of grace and mercy, and the title track “Love Is Louder,” described by group member Jeff Crews as an upbeat melody with a message of God’s faithfulness.

Lance Moore, the group’s lead vocalist, co-wrote “Better With A Friend,” a country-flavoured track emphasizing unity and companionship. Moore states, “Life is filled with uncertainty, but God is always faithful, and He is the greatest Friend we will ever have.”

Paid In Full, formed in 1991, has built a reputation for delivering polished performances both on and off stage. Early in their career, they caught the attention of gospel legend Jake Hess, who mentored the group and appeared on their 1998 recording.

Provided to YouTube by StowTown Records I Can’t Do This By Myself · Paid In Full Louder â„— 2024 StowTown Records Released on: 2024-12-13

StowTown Records President and CEO Landon Beene expressed enthusiasm for the project, praising the trio’s work ethic and musical quality. The album is available on all digital platforms worldwide, distributed by Provident/Sony.

Paid In Full, consisting of Bradley Littlejohn, Jeff Crews, and Lance Moore, began their professional ministry while in high school. They have since performed alongside notable gospel acts such as The Gaither Vocal Band and The Cathedrals. The group continues to focus on sharing their faith through music in various venues across the country.