NQC HEADS FULL STEAM AHEAD INTO WEEKEND

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (September 28, 2017) – It has been an exciting week already as NQC’s 60th anniversary celebration has been marked with moments of patriotism and unity underscored by a talented array of the best in Gospel music – and it’s only just begun!

Sunday began with a special “Welcome Concert” followed by a Monday night full of patriotism. The US Army Quartet performed “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and “God Bless The USA,” at the request of NQC VP, Clarke Beasley, which recieved  thunderous appplause from the crowd.

With the controversies surrounding the anthem, the NQC audience sent a clear message of support, patriotism, love of country and love of God. And, it wasn’t just the audience in attendance

that took note. The moment grabbed the attention from local and national media outlets including the Independent Journal Review, Fox News’ Todd Starnes, WVLT and more.

The night continued to inspire with performances including a very special treat – the reunion of Squire Parsons and the Kingsmen Quartet, peforming hit after hit, including the iconic song, “Beulah Land.” The evening was hosted by Riley Harrison Clark and Lauren Talley.

Tuesday afternoon delievered a first: the SGMA Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Benefit Concert featuring the inductions of Troy Burns, Randy Shelnut, LaBreeska Hemphill, and Tony Greene; and performances from The Guardians, Jim Brady Trio, Hoppers, Kingdom Heirs, Karen Peck & New River, Second  Half Quartet, Triumphant Quartet and Tribute. The afternoon was hosted by SGMA Hall of Fame member, Dr. Jerry Goff.

Tuesday evening was hosted by Joseph Habedank and Katie Erwin, infusing a youthful joy and excitement into every moment during the night. There were performances from Jason Crabb, The Perrys, Jim Brady Trio, McKameys, Dixie Melody Boys, Talleys, and more.

Special clips celebrating the 60th Anniversary of NQC were shared through the evening, including vintage video of The Rambos and Blackwood Brothers. Scott Fowler took the entire time allotted to Legacy Five to highlight the amazing testimony of their new piano player Josh Townsend (JT). There wasn’t a dry eye in the building as Josh shared his incredible journey, ending with the song “God’s Been Good.” (See previously released video here.)

There was no time for slowing down as NQC hit mid-week. Wednesday brought a momentous Hoppers Brothers Reunion and the anticipated Singing New Fan Awards. Wednesday evening concerts included performances by Freedom Quartet, Jonathan Wilburn, Gold City, the Guardians, Kingdom Heis, Jeff & Sheri Easter, LeFevre Quartet, the Whisnants and many more with vintage NQC memories of the Imperials and the Speer Family.

Aaron Wilburn will lead the way with comedy and music as we journey into Thursday and excitment is in the air as Bill Gaither returns to NQC, bringing with him his Homecoming Friends and the Gaither Vocal Band.

This evening is sure to be a hit – with hosts Park Webb and Hannah Webb guiding us through the night of performances from the Gaither Vocal Band, an Inspirations Reunion, the Nelons, Isaacs, Greater Vision, GMA Hall of Fame members The Hoppers, Legacy Five, the Mylon Hayes Family, Booth Brothers and so many more!

NQC 60th Anniversary photos may be accessed at Facebook.com/NQConline and may be downloaded for use. The event is being held at the LeCeonte Center in Pigeon Forge, TN until Saturday, September 30, 2017.

NQC was founded in 1957 by gospel music legend and former backup vocalist for Elvis Presley, J.D. Sumner who co-produced the event with James Blackwood. The annual convention was moved in later years to Nashville, TN and then to Louisville, KY where it was held for 20 years before moving to Pigeon Forge, TN recently.

For more information, visit www.NQConline.com.