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Gospel Music Stars Come Together for Benefit Concert to Support Hurricane Victims in North Carolina

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Amy Turner

A group of gospel music’s most iconic performers is joining forces for a special benefit concert aimed at raising funds for hurricane recovery efforts in Western North Carolina. The event, set to take place on Monday, November 11, 2024, at Hopewell Baptist Church in Monroe, NC, will bring together some of the genre’s biggest names, all volunteering their time and talents to aid those affected by the recent natural disasters.

The benefit concert will feature performances from gospel music’s beloved family, The Hoppers, the legendary Kingsmen Quartet, and The Inspirations, fan favorites from the Gospel Music Fan Awards. Other performers include The Littles, a family ensemble known for their harmonious sound, and Band of Brothers, along with some surprise guests expected to make an appearance throughout the night.

Proceeds from the concert will go to Hearts With Hands, a Christian humanitarian nonprofit based in Swannanoa, North Carolina. Founded by Ralph Sexton, the organization provides critical relief to communities in crisis, with a current focus on helping those in Western North Carolina recover from recent hurricanes.

The concert is also supported by the leadership of Hopewell Baptist Church in Monroe, which has generously opened its doors for the event. The collaboration between the artists and the church underscores the power of community and faith in times of hardship.

This event is set to be a remarkable show of solidarity from the gospel music world, as they come together to support those rebuilding their lives in the aftermath of the devastating storms.

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

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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.

The Perrys’ Journey with ‘Long, Long Road’ Album

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SPECIAL: STOWTOWN RECORDS

Nashville, TN – Over the past five decades, it’s safe to say The Perrys have enjoyed quite an amazing journey. Their walk has been filled with many mountaintop experiences, as well as difficult valleys. The path hasn’t always been easy, but charter member Libbi Perry Stuffle and The Perrys are evidence that, along the journey, we make discoveries about ourselves and experience God’s faithfulness on the long, long road. 

Their brand new Stowtown Records release, Long, Long Road, is a testament of God’s goodness and takes listeners to a place of inspiration and encouragement. The recording reunites Libbi, her son Jared and talented vocalists Jason Gordon and Dayton Gay with producer and longtime friend Wayne Haun. It is a powerful collection of songs that will challenge and uplift listeners who have been longtime fans, as well as attract new listeners who have never experienced the unmistakable sound that has made the iconic group so popular for over half a century.

Riding high on the success of the group’s current Top 10 hit, “Warmin’ Up,” StowTown plans to release at least three radio singles from this brand-new recording, promising even more radio success in the coming months.

Producer and StowTown Records Executive Wayne Haun shared his excitement about the new release, “This album is classic Perrys! It has absolutely everything you could want in a Perrys recording, from reimagined classics to traditional convention sounds. Add in some fresh new material and, as always, it all fits perfectly and is performed brilliantly.”


One special cut from the recording that will no doubt be embraced by radio upon its release is the remake of the upbeat “You Can’t Hurry God.” From legendary songwriter Dorothy Love Coates, who penned such classics as “I’m Sealed” and “Get Away Jordan,” this particular cut is an appropriate reminder of God’s perfect timing.

The moving ballad, “Jesus Is,” is a simple message of the ever-present, perfect love of Jesus, regardless of any situation. Another message of the love of God and His unwavering faithfulness can be found in the progressive, yet powerful “A Million Reasons.” Prolific writer Jeff Bumgardner united with Joey and Kristi Stroud to create this beautifully written expression of God’s abundant grace. 

This latest recording effort is yet another reminder from Libbi and The Perrys of the victory that can only be found by trusting in the faithfulness of a Father who is always directing our path, through the twists and turns on the long, long road. Libbi expressed her joy about the new recording, “Long, Long Road is a very fitting title with this being our 54th year since we began on our journey on Christmas Day in 1970, when we gathered around the family piano and sang our very first song after the tragic loss of our oldest brother that previous July. We’ve seen a lot of hard days, but God has remained faithful to the calling He placed on our lives. For every valley, there has always been a mountaintop! For every tear that has been shed, there has always been a smile and some laughter. This album is filled with songs that have fit every phase in our lives. There are even songs of rejoicing about when we finally reach that hallelujah meeting at the end of this long, long road! We are too close to our Heavenly Home to stop now.” She continued with a beloved scripture passage, Philippians‬ ‭3‬:‭13‬-‭14‬, “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

Distributed exclusively by Provident/Sony, Long, Long Road is available on all digital platforms worldwide. Stream the full project here.

Track List:

Long, Long Road
A Million Reasons
Maybe When the Sun Comes Up
Hallelujah Meetin’
Jesus Is
That Kind of Faith 
You Can’t Hurry God
He Never Gave Up on Me
The Night I Walked the Aisle 
By the Blood

Links:
https://perrysministries.com
https://facebook.com/ThePerrys70/
https://instagram.com/theperrys70/
https://youtube.com/theperrys9801

ABOUT THE PERRYS
The Perrys have a rich history spanning over five decades, proving to be a faithful force in Southern Gospel music. In keeping with the tradition of presenting quality music, The Perrys consistently perform songs which speak to hearts and change lives. While their focus is ministry, the quality of their numerous number 1 songs is continuously confirmed by radio airplay. They have been honored by industry peers and fans alike, having received multiple award nominations and wins over the years, including GMA Dove AwardÂŽ for Southern Gospel Recorded Song of the Year for “Celebrate Me Home” and multiple Singing News Fan Awards for Mixed Quartet of the Year. Founding member Libbi Perry Stuffle, whose matchless voice with velvety alto tones has been the nucleus of the group since its inception, has also been individually honored by fans, winning the Singing News Fan Award for Favorite Alto of the Year eight times and Favorite Female Vocalist of the Year twice. With appearances on the Gaither Homecoming Series, at Dollywood and Silver Dollar City, in addition to various churches and festivals, The Perrys keep a full touring schedule year after year. Their passion for encouraging others for Christ will carry them through many decades to come.  

Karen Peck & New River Teases New Album After Months of Preparation

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JEFF TURNER

Southern Gospel fans are eagerly anticipating the next release from Karen Peck & New River, a group that has been a staple in the genre since its formation in 1991. With six Grammy nominations and Karen Peck Gooch’s 2021 induction into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame, the group has consistently delivered powerful and uplifting music.

Karen Peck & New River has been hard at work on their forthcoming album, though the title remains undecided. “We have quite a few songs that could be a title,” Karen Peck Gooch shares. “‘Be Ready’ is a great title.” While the title is still being finalized, one thing is certain: the group is confident in the direction of the new project. “I really think that we’re in good shape as far as the focus and the direction we’re heading with this album.”

Fans can expect the same heartfelt messaging that has made the group a Southern Gospel mainstay. “We just want our music to be relevant,” Gooch adds. “We want to keep moving forward because we can’t stay where we are.”

As the release date approaches, anticipation grows for what promises to be another meaningful and impactful album from Karen Peck & New River.

Shane Dunlap Takes Lead in “Why Wouldn’t I Run,” Showcasing Lee Park Worship’s Unique Sound

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JEFF TURNER

Shane Dunlap, the leader of Lee Park Worship, has taken the helm on the group’s breakout song, Why Wouldn’t I Run. Known for his rich voice and dynamic stage presence, Dunlap’s role in this song marks a significant moment in the growing success of the worship collective.

Lee Park Worship, described as “a collection of many different backgrounds, generations, and musical influences who have come together as one to sing praises to our Lord,” has made waves with their unique blend of modern worship and traditional church music. The group embraces both today’s contemporary sound while staying true to the roots of the church, providing a fresh yet familiar worship experience.

While Why Wouldn’t I Run has garnered attention for its powerful message and moving melody, Dunlap is quick to point out that it’s not just his vocals driving the song’s success. He emphasizes the crucial role of fellow worship team member, Karlie Russell, who adds a special element to the piece.

“Carly just does such a great job. Her voice just fits it perfectly,” says Dunlap. “We wrote it for her. I was, when we went in there, I wanted to write a song for her.”

The song not only showcases Russell’s vocal talent but was specifically crafted with her in mind. Dunlap recalls playing a recording of her voice during the writing process, which helped shape the direction of the song.

“I played them her voice and something that she had done. And that’s what happened. It just came out. It’s pretty cool how that happened and how it’s become what it is,” Dunlap reflects.

Russell’s “special touch” is something that cannot be replicated, according to Dunlap. Her distinctive voice elevates the track and adds an emotional depth that resonates with listeners. “Nobody can sing it like Carly,” he adds, solidifying her unique contribution to Why Wouldn’t I Run.

The song has not only become a signature piece for Lee Park Worship but also showcases the collaborative nature of the group. With Dunlap’s powerful leadership and Russell’s stunning vocals, Why Wouldn’t I Run embodies the collective’s mission to blend diverse musical backgrounds and influences into a harmonious expression of faith.

As Lee Park Worship continues to rise, their approach to merging the familiar with fresh, new sounds—while celebrating the individual gifts of each member—sets them apart in today’s worship music scene. And with songs like Why Wouldn’t I Run, it’s clear that Shane Dunlap and the group are just getting started.