NATIONAL QUARTET CONVENTION ENDS ON A HIGH NOTE WITH 100 YEARS OF SOUTHERN GOSPEL MUSIC CELEBRATION

(Hendersonville, TN) September 27, 2010 – Days after the annual National Quartet Convention has come to an end, fans are still talking about the Saturday afternoon showcase that brought back some of the most influential groups of the past 100 years.  Produced by Daywind Records’ Norman Holland, this once in a lifetime experience allowed formerly popular groups, such as the Hinsons and the Speers, as well as many others, to take the stage for, what was for many, the first time in years. 
Thousands filled Freedom Hall in Louisville, KY, for an afternoon of memories.  From the Rambos to the Downings and the Nelons, the groups came together to sing the songs that fans today still know and love.  With segments from the bluegrass families of the Lewis’ and the Easter’s, as well as former members of the Cathedrals and members of the current Caravan tour, consisting of the Blackwood Brothers Quartet, the LeFevre Quartet and the Chuck Wagon Gang, there was something for everyone. 
Perhaps one of the most special aspects of the showcase was the excitement of the artists to participate in such an event.  Karen Peck Gooch, who began her current group, Karen Peck and New River, following a tenure with the Nelons, shares, “It was an honor and a thrill to participate in the 100 year celebration.  I was privileged to travel with the Nelons for 10 years in the 1980s.  Being on stage with them again was magic!  I can honestly say that every group that graced the stage had that special….MAGIC.  All of us were flooded with great memories and tears.  We will be talking about this event for years to come.  Wow.”
The Singing Americans featuring Rick Strickland, Dwayne Burke, Ed Hill, and Michael English were also a crowd favorite, with Michael singing his classic, “I Bowed On My Knees.”  Possibly the most anticipated event was the reunion of one of Gospel music’s most beloved quartets, Gold City.  Former members Brian Free, Ivan Parker, and Mike LeFevre joined Tim Riley to sing as a quartet for the first time in 19 years.  This moment was truly special for fans and artists alike.  Brian Free comments, “It was great to stand on stage again with my friends Mike, Ivan and Tim.  It was as if we had never been apart on stage.  Our emotions were high.  God never ceases to bless me in my life.  I hope we get to do it again sometime.”  For Norman Holland, this event was not only a once in a lifetime gift to fans and an honor for those involved, but also a special memory for himself.  He remarks, “For someone like me, who grew up loving Southern Gospel music, it was like going back in a time machine to visit the music of my childhood.  To be able to relive those magical moments was one of the highlights of my life.”
For those not able to attend, as well as those who wish to relive the afternoon again and again, the footage of the 100 Years of Southern Gospel showcase will be available for purchase within the coming months. 
Daywind Records is based in Hendersonville, TN, and is distributed worldwide through New Day Christian Distributors.  Daywind is home to such great artists as Karen Peck & New River, Brian Free & Assurance and Greater Vision.  For more information, visit www.daywindrecords.com.