Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame Announces 2016 Inductees

Pigeon Forge, TN  –The Southern Gospel Music Association (SGMA) and the Southern Gospel Hall of Fame Museum announce the names of the 2016 inductees. Arthur Rice, President of the SGMA made the announcement during an SGMA benefit concert in Atlanta this evening. Joining the Hall of Fame are Carroll McGruder, Lari Goss, Peg McKamey Bean and Ronny Hinson.

Carroll McGruder (1900-2016) Award winning singer/songwriter Carroll McGruder is one of this year’s honorees. The induction into the Southern Gospel Music Association honors McGruder for his years of contributions to the sharing of the Gospel through Southern Gospel Music. “Whenever Daddy (referring to Rex Nelon), told us he had a new Carroll McGruder song,” Kelly Nelon Clark recalls, “We knew right away that we would be singing it for years to come.”

Lari Goss (1945-2015) Grammy award winning arranger/producer Lari Goss is being honored with an induction into the SGMA Hall of Fame. He has been recognized for a long list of acclaimed projects in both Christian Music as well as secular music productions. “Working with Lari Goss was a great honor. Any project he touched was anointed”, stated Mark Trammell. Goss is most noted for his orchestral arranging as well as keyboard excellence.

Peg McKamey Bean of The McKameys, known for her spirited style on stage is another member of the Class of 2016 in the SGMA Hall of Fame. The McKameys were originally formed as a trio of sisters in 1954. The group continues to produce chart-topping songs. “If you have been around Southern Gospel Music for very long, you know when Peg takes the stage with her white hanky, God is going to be honored”, said SGMA President, Arthur Rice.

Ronny Hinson rounds out the SGMA Hall of Fame 2016 induction. Hinson is perhaps best known for writing “The Lighthouse”, which is always a crowd favorite. Hinson’s career began over 45 years ago and has never slowed down. As a soloist, his voice is a mellow baritone that touches the listener. “Whether preaching, singing or writing, Hinson’s contributions to Southern Gospel Music have earned him a place in the Hall of Fame”, remarked SGMA Executive Board Officer, Gary Casto.

The SGMA was organized in an effort to bring awareness of the value that Southern Gospel music has brought to the lives of many generations.

Arthur Rice, President of the SGMA commented, “The SGMA wants to honor those who brought the Gospel through music in the past. The SGMA believes it is our responsibility to leave a legacy for the future while encouraging the next generation to be bold in their stand for leading souls to Christ”.

The SGMA is a recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization. For those unable to attend, but wish to make a tax-deductible contribution, text any amount to:865-264-2258.

The Southern Gospel Hall of Fame Museum is a centerpiece of Dollywood, an entertainment complex located at the base of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Visitors to Dollywood will find the Hall of Fame Museum just inside the main entrance. Along with educational exhibits, a gift shop offers patrons an opportunity to purchase items to encourage their faith.

The SGMA invites everyone to demonstrate support by becoming an SGMA partner. Partnerships can be obtained at the Hall of Fame Museum or online.

For more information on the Southern Gospel Music Association, visit sgma.org