Goodlettsville, TN – One of Christian music’s leading booking agencies, The Harper Agency, has named the newly organized Jim Brady Trio, as the latest addition to their artist roster. The announcement comes just a few days after popular vocal group, The Booth Brothers shared the news that long-time group member Jim Brady would be leaving the group at the end of the year. “Ronnie and I are saddened to see Jim depart our team,†Michael Booth stated, “yet we are tremendously excited about his future contributions to Gospel Music.â€
Since joining The Booth Brothers in 2002, Jim has become a favorite among Southern Gospel Music lovers. Over the past decade Jim, with Ronnie and Michael Booth, have become one of Gospel Music’s most awarded groups, collectively receiving more than 100 industry honors and accolades. “The last 12 and a half years have meant more to me than words could ever express,†Jim shared. “Ronnie and Michael have truly become brothers to me, and I’ll be forever thankful for the great times spent with them.â€
To say that Jim’s time with The Booth Brothers solidified his place at the pinnacle of Gospel Music would be an understatement; however, Jim possessed a rich musical heritage prior to his arrival with the Brothers. He first began singing with his gifted musical family at the age of five, and by the time he was 16 he began songwriting. Also prior to joining The Booth Brothers, Jim traveled with his wife, Melissa, and her family, The Shulers for nearly a decade. Jim and Melissa merged their songwriting gifts and are now recognized as two of Gospel Music’s most prolific songwriters, having penned more than 200 songs.
Over the years Melissa has faithfully supported her husband’s calling to Gospel Music, and as often as possible the two have had the privilege to sing and minister together. Melissa is a talented vocalist and musician and was featured on the Women of Homecoming Gaither Videos released in 2013. She is a regular columnist for The Singing News Magazine and Homecoming Magazine, and has also filled in for such popular groups as The Hoppers, The Martins and Lordsong over the past several years. “God has brought so many opportunities our way as a result of Jim’s time with The Booth Brothers,†Melissa said. “Had he chosen to sing with them for the rest of his life, I would have supported him 100 percent, but God had other plans, and we are honored that He is affording us the opportunity to share a full-time ministry. â€
The third member of the Jim Brady Trio has yet to be named; however, Jim and Melissa know God has the perfect person already selected. “We are so excited about this new adventure,†Jim stated. “The decision to leave The Booth Brothers was not made lightly, but I felt an urging from God that this is right, and I am so grateful for Michael and Ronnie’s blessings on this new ministry.â€
“We have no doubt The Jim Brady Trio is equipped to make quality music that will encourage and evangelize,†Michael explained. “Great days are ahead for this union, and we know God is going to use them in a mighty way.â€
The Harper Agency is pleased to have the opportunity to work with this newly formed group and are thrilled to add The Jim Brady Trio to their roster of fine artists, which also includes The Booth Brothers.   “We’ve known Jim and Melissa for 11 years, since we first began scheduling The Booth Brothers,†Ed Harper states. “While collectively, they are a new trio, Jim and Melissa have already established themselves to be credible artists with a heart for ministry. They have a uniqueness in that they have had the opportunity to test the waters, so to speak, and have been able to minister together, even when Jim was traveling full-time with The Booth Brothers.â€
The Harper Agency has enjoyed a wonderful partnership with The Booth Brothers for over a decade and obviously, it was important to have the blessing of The Booth Brothers before embarking upon a scheduling agreement. Thankfully, the blessing was bestowed. “We are equally excited that Jim and Melissa’s trio will be a part of the Harper Agency. Ed Harper and the Harper Agency have effectively managed the schedule of The Booth Brothers for 11 years, and I know they will be a tremendous asset to Jim and Melissa.â€
“I believe Michael and Ronnie consider The Jim Brady Trio to be an extension of The Booth Brothers’ ministry,†Ed shared. “They have that kind of friendship, and that is definitely important. We are honored to have the opportunity to work with and represent such an outstanding couple. We are anxious to see who they name as the third member of the Trio, and we look forward to being a part of their future for many years.â€
The Harper Agency may be reached by calling 615-851-4500 or visiting www.harperagency.com. The Agency is currently scheduling dates for 2015 for The Jim Brady Trio. Additional information regarding The Jim Brady Trio is available online at www.BradyHouseMusic.com.