Bi RELIG181.15 - World Radio History
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
ISECTION 2 - OCTOBER 22, 1966 PRICE $1.25 Bi THE WORLD OF RELIG181.15 43141.151ECI
PAUL MICKELSON
who for the past 21 years has produced religious
recordings for RCA Victor and Word Records,
as well as music for Billy Graham, now . . .
PRESENTS...
The fastest growing labels in the field!
Hear these outstanding recent releases now available!
M -110/S-210 SM-1022/SS-2022 SM-1032/SS-2032 M112/5 212
M-113 M -111/S-211 SM-1029/SS-2029 CM-5006/CS-6006
THE C.7-VEAA-NT GOSPE t AIRS
SWIGS
Vviti/9//4 414.111BERTS
MITES
,tOn the
Phi PCIG.LSON ORCHESTRA
a..; ABLE CHORUS
CR 3001/CRS-4001 SM-1031/SS-2031 M -103/S-203 TF-777/S-77
More than 125 albums in 1966 catalog
Supreme Records P. 0. Box 352 Glendale, Calif. 91209 (213) 245-3646
SOUNDS OF AMERICA
SESAC INC.
one of the world's foremost
music licensing organizations...
Salutes its gospel publisher affiliates whose names and catalogs
are the leaders in the field of inspirational music. We acknowl-
edge their sincere dedication in bringing to the world a sound of
rejoicing and a message of hope and cheer.
SESAC enters its 36th year of representing the world's great gos-
pel music.
SESAC INC./NEW YORK: 10 COLUMBUS CIRCLE NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10019 212-586-3450
NASHVILLE: 806 16TH AVENUE, SOUTH NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE 37203 616-254-5703
The World of Religious Music Billboard 3
A GREAT LABEL [ H EART
IS TALENT ARMING)))V
JAKE HESS and the The Oak
IMPERIALS Ridge Boys
The SPE
The The Singing RAMBOS
Plainsmen The PROPHETS
The Lester Family
The Lee Robbins Smitty Gatlin
Ira Stanphill
SONGFELLOWS
The KINGSMEN The
ELMER and JUNE Weatherfords
Carol and Jimmy Snow
The HUMBARD Family
The Cathedral Quartet
Rosie Rozell
Billboard The World of Religious Music
THE SFE1
LPS 1880 LPHF 1881 LPS 1882 LPHF 1883
be was a
paashia'
LPS 1886 LPHF 1887 LPS_ 1860 LPHF 1861_ LPS 1884 LPHF 1885
ItANIISOS
CATHEDRAL QUARTET
PLAINSMEN
ssono...
PS 1888 LPHF 1889 LPS 1850 LPHF 1851 LPS 1852 LPHF 1853 LPS 1864 LPHF 1865
LPS 1878 LPHF 1879 LPS 1844 LPHF 1845 LPHF 1839 LPS 1890 LPHF 1891 LPS 854 LPHF 1855
ti tel-co
+JAKE HESS 'A
kinGei men IMPERIlLS
a"te-
EART
ARMING
ECOR DS
LPS 1862 LPHF 1863 LPS 1846 LPHF 1847 LPS 1872 LPHF 1873
Those SINGING RAMBOS
AND, INTRODUCING .. CONCERT
HEART WARMING RECORDS
LPS 1786 LPHF 1787 LPS 1868 LPHF 1869
HEART WARMING RECORDS NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE 37219
136 4TH AVE. NORTH
The World of Religious Music Billboard 5
THE OAK RIDGE BOYS I I What's in a name? Plenty! When you're
talking about talent. The national recognition accorded The Oak Ridge Boys did not just happen. It came as a result
of many years of exposure before hundreds of audiences throughout the land . . . from small church groups to
overflow gates at the most prestigious auditoriums in America. That's why today The Oak Ridge Boys are an inte-
gral part of America's gospel music heritage. . . . What's in a name? Plenty! When you're talking about The Oak
Ridge Boys . . . one of the most exciting gospel groups in the land!
HIGH CPC2
EART RICORDING
ARMING
RECORD D 5
DON LIGHT TALENT INC.
Shirr 209 / 806 17th Avenue, South
Nashville, Tomes'', 3720.9 / 615 258-8629
11111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111[111111111111i
Billboard
Published Weekly by
The Billboard Publishing Company
2160 Patterson St., Cincinnati, 0. 45214
Billboard
THE WORLD OF
Tel.: Area Code 513, 381-6450
Publisher
Hal B. Cook
Editorial Office
165 W. 46th St., New York, N. Y. 10036
Area Code 212, PL 7-2800
Cable: BILLBOARD NEWYORK
New York Office
RELIGIBUS
Editor -in -Chief
Editors
Lee Zhito
Paul Ackerman,
Aaron Sternfield
Department Editors, New York
. .
141.151Ea
Music Editor Paul Ackerman
Associate Editor Mike Gross
Chief Copy Editor Robert Sobel
Radio -TV Programming Claude R. Hall
Classical Editor
Bulk Vending Editor
Fred Kirby
Hank Fox
CONTENTS
Department Editors
Audio, Coin Machines Editor ......
Ray Brack, Chicago Billy Graham Looks at the Entertainment Industry 10
U. S. Editorial Offices
Cincinnati, Exec. News Editor..Wm. J. Sachs
Chicago, Midwest Editor Ray Brack Music and the Billy Graham Crusade 14
Washington Bureau Chief ....Mildred Hall
Hollywood, W. Coast News ....Eliot Tiegel
Nashville News Editor Herb Wood Gospel Music Songwriter Series 18
Special Projects Division
General Manager Andrew J. Csida
Director, Reviews and Charts ....Don Ovens Talent Agency for Gospel Artists 26
Manager, Record Market
Research Andy Tomko
Manager, Charts
Supervisor, Print Services
Laurie Schenker
Bill Courtney
Singing in My Soul 28
Production Department, New York
Art Director Virgil Arnett Brother Gatemouth Spreads the Word 32
General Advertising Office, N. Y.
Director of Sales Denis Hylano Music Is the Outgrowth of the Church 34
Promotion Director Geraldine Platt
Midwest Music Sales Richard Wilson
West Coast Gen. Mgr. Bill Wardlow
Nashville Gen. Mgr. Robt. L. Kendall Shaped Notes and Round Notes 22
Coin Machine Adv., Chicago
Coin Machine Ad. Mgr. ....Richard Wilson `Simple Enough to Stand the Test of Time' 38
Classified Ads, Chicago
Classified Ad Mgr. John O'Neil
`Freedom Songs Are True Religious Songs' 44
Circulation Sales, New York
Circulation Manager Milton Gorbulew
Subscription Fulfillment Motivation Is More Than Money 48
Send Form 3579 to
2160 Patterson St., Cincinnati, 0. 45214
Fulfilment Manager Joseph Pace There's Gold in Gospel Copyrights 50
U. S. Branch Offices
Chicago, III. 60601, 188 W. Randolph Prophets in the Holy Land 54
Area Code 312, CE 6-9818
Los Angeles, Calif. 90069,
9000 Sunset Blvd.
Area -Code 213, 273-1555 Faith Cometh by Hearing the Word of God 56
Nashville, Tenn. 37219, 226 Capital Blvd
Area Code 615, 244-1836
Washington, D. C. 20005, Gospel as Seen Through a Video Tube 58
733 15th St., N.W.
Woodward Bldg., Rm. 533
Area Code 202, 393-2580 Four Generations of Speers 60
International Office
European Office ...Andre de Vekey, Dir Rice Sees Steady Gospel Growth 61
European Editor Don Wedge
15 Hanover Square, London W.1
HYde Park 3659
Cable: Billboard London `We Believe God Can Be Glorified by Music Anywhere-
Subscription rates payable in advance.
One year, $20 in U. S. A. (except Alaska,
Even in a Tavern' 62
Hawaii and Puerto Rico) and Canada, or
$45 by airmail. Rates in other foreign
countries on request. Published weekly.
Second-class postage paid at New York, `They Kept the Garden Growing and the Fire Burning' 66
N. Y., and at additional mailing offices.
Copyright 1966 by The Billboard Pub-
lishing Company. Postmaster please send Music for the Millions 68
Form 3579 to Billboard,
2160 Patterson St., Cin- clAMO. 19
cinnati, Ohio 45214.
Vol. 78 No. 43
The World of Religious Music Billboard 7
the VICOUNTS
The sound that has brought
to the ViCOUNTS;
hope, happiness and joy to all others.
tk COURIERS Qospet m
5252 HST
90eatitlik
flf1(0 COD( 111
Ji/ez~ ifi/ e,
IMPTOR RECORDS 166-0943
tt,Y,,/er-r 91 ea/14/. the COURIERS 166-1151
It all ads ap ... J-iputtatei Vevpil mac,
COURIERS QUALITY SOUND
TROUBADOURS
ViCOUNTS QUALITY BACKGROUNDS
KEN CARTER (Soloist -SINGING QUALITY PRESSING (RCA)
SEARGEANTS - USAF)
EDDIE REECE and his QUALITY JACKETS
HYMNTIME SINGERS
Plus many others. QUALITY COLOR and PACKAGING
TOP TALENT TOP RIMY = TOPS IN SALES
8 Billboard The World of Religious Music
WNW
Aft/rill Alla roil/et/04 inc.
18 MPUT CUSTOM COPSE
1-2-3 and 4 TRBCH MID RECORD1116 SYSTEMS
TELffUDfSf0 PEURR111 BCH RI_TEC ELECTROVOICE
SERB
EMT 140 STEREO ECHO Reverberation HITS
QUflIITY COMPOORTS THROUGHOUT
LRHOEVIO
COMPUTE OVERDUBB106 TBRCK1116 fRCILITIfS
TOTRLY BIB- COODITIOHED tE-EttagrEAR
32,725 CUBIC fEET -55 fT x 35 fT fl_0011 RRER ritz6 tlet Dirk Do UPS
imerica's No. 1
COUNTRI GOSPEL
usic plaza Quartet
Seen daily on TV's
ififCHf1111CSBURG, PO 17055 GOSPEL ROUND-UP
produced in Living Color.
BEM SOHO PRODUCTIORS 166-5336
COURIERS OURRTET Now showing in
21 major markets!
HOUSE Of MUSIC 166-1652
CEMRIER3 PARADISE 1111ARRIISTURO CONCERT
(ftlARTET PUBLISHERS
New company New songs
J4eLise of New writers
-'sic
Retail outlet for PIANOS, The ENLOE BROTHERS
ORGANS and RECORDS. CLINTON and FRETTA VANZANT
located in the heart of
GOSPEL MUSIC PLAZA. BRYAN JONES Where Records are Set!
The World of Religious Music Billboard 9
Billy Graham Looks
at the Entertainment Industry
By BILLY GRAHAM those who comprise it. The naive public is often unable
to distinguish between the real and the fictitious. It tends
America is considered the entertainment capital of to be influenced by-and even emulates-the bad behavior
the world. The theatrical fetes of our stage, screen and of a good actor, or the good behavior of a bad actor.
television are legend. Hollywood and Broadway are magic I have many friends in the entertainment world. Many
names. of them are not only people of exceptional talent but have
The entertainment industry is one of the most demo- high moral standards and religious faith. They are conscious
cratic of our institutions. It favors no class, color or creed, of their responsibility to a public which holds them up to
and it welcomes with open arms anyone who can con- a high degree of esteem. However, I know some who have
tribute to its rich tradition and accomplishments. Few, told me, "My profession is one thing, but my private life
if any, American institutions make a greater impact upon is another"; thus divorcing themselves from personal re-
the world for good or evil. The Greek word from which sponsibility.
"theater" is derived is "theatron," which means "to see" Because of the nature of my work, I know something
or "to reflect." Thus our entertainers reflect the char- of the tension and rigorous demands of being a public
acter of our people. In effect, they hold a mirror up to figure. While there is a difference between being a preacher
the world and say, "This is what we are like." and an entertainer, there are also similarities. The loss of
No institution can be better than the character of privacy, the demands on one's time, the drain of nervous
Billy Graham talks to young people who attended a London Crusade meeting.
10 Billboard The World of Religious MusicLondoners packed Earl's Court
during Billy Graham's London
Crusade in June.
Some 2,000 Londoners greet
Mr. and Mrs. Graham at the
start of their London Crusade.
energy, are all to be coped with. But to me it is a part of Thus many who have reached the top of the enter-
gratitude-indeed, an indication of humility-to keep in tainment world have found it to be an agonizing dis-
mind one's responsibility to those of the public whose ad- illusionment. They thought that if they could be a success
miration and support make success possible. A popular in the entertainment world it would automatically bring
entertainer carries tremendous influence for good or for happiness. The Psalmist once said: "He gave them their
bad. His words, his actions and "Would you believe" his request; but sent leanness into their soul." In other words,
private behavior, is copied by the public, young and old, you car reach the top but your soul can become lean.
who think of him as a hero. No person can be happy with a "lean soul." King Solomon
However, behind every entertainer there are scores once said: "Madness is in their heart while they live, and
of people working in the industry. These, too, have a re- after that they go to the dead."
sponsibility. I know that many of these people shrink Recently a magazine carried the story of one of Amer-
from their responsibility, but I am convinced that the ica's millionaires. It said: "He is lonely, sad and worth
future of our world may well depend on the moral and five million." The human soul is so large that thing,
spiritual character of those who comprise this industry. money, sex and honor cannot fill it. Man is made for
To be a part of the great entertainment world is the goal God. Without God there cannot be permanent joy, peace
and ambition of thousands of young people, and they can and happiness.
be influenced for good or bad by members of this pro- The story is told of a sad, tormented man who went
fession. to see a physician about his melancholy. The doctor said:
When King Henry IV was dying, his son, Hal, came "I want you to go to the theater tonight and see that
into the death chamber, gazed at the bejeweled crown on hilarious clown, Grimaldi; he will cure you of your de-
his father's head, and said to himself: "Ah, it soon will be spair." The man looked at the physician with sad eyes
mine." Tiptoeing to the deathbed, he slipped the crown and said: "Sir, I am Grimaldi."
from his father's head and placed it upon his own. Then Thus, today we find many disillusioned people com-
he began to reflect upon the awesome responsibility of mitting suicide, which illustrates over and over again that
the kingdom. The crown itself was beautiful and to be Christ was right when He said: "What shall it profit a
desired, but when he thought of the burdens that went man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own
with it, he quickly placed it back upon his dying father's soul?" There is nothing more pathetic than a man who is
head and wished that he would live. an outward success and an inner failure.
The World of Religious Music Billboard 11talent+
talent
joke hess
and the
imperials
PETE BOOKING AND MANAGEMENT BY:
EMERY
HEARTWARMING RECORDS
PRODUCTIONS 136 4th AVE. NO.
NASHVILLE, TENN.
Talent Agency
artists management - concert productions - writers - publishers representative
12 Billboard The World of Religious MusicMUSIC and the
By CLIFF BARROWS the masses, but rather a most common and accepted
Musical Director for Billy Graham means of expression that historically, in both secular and
sacred history, and currently, is very much a part of our
Some time ago, Billy Graham and I were talking about everyday life.
crusade meetings and our work together as a team. I I have often been asked, over the past 20 years or so,
jokingly remarked, "Billy, when we get to heaven, you'll about the part that music plays in the Billy Graham
be out of a job, because we won't need any more preach- crusades. What is the purpose of the music? Why do you
ing, but we will still go on singing." use the type of music you do? Couldn't you get along
Of course, it doesn't necessarily follow that all who just as well without it? These are interesting and relevant
sing the songs and enjoy the rhythms will make the Pearly questions and I perhaps have asked them more than
Gates. However, the thought I want to convey is that anyone else.
music is not only an integral part of our lives here but will The ministry of the Graham Association began several
certainly be in the life hereafter. years ago in the setting of a city-wide crusade in Port-
The one great medium of expression in our society land, Ore. It was during the course of these meetings that
that would perhaps be the hardest to do without is music. the decision was made by Mr. Graham, and those of us
Have you ever stopped to consider what this world would who were with him at the time, to begin a network radio
be like without it? I mean, some folks just can't make ministry across the nation. With the additional activities
it through the day without the "top 40," and certainly a of television and Christian films, which the association
weekend is much more pleasant with the "Bell Telephone produces, music has become a very vital and important
Hour" or Lawrence Welk. And just try to conceive of a part of our programming.
Sunday and the worship services in your church without I would be the first to say that I do not believe it
the hymns and songs which are so much a vital part of is indispensible, but wherever crusade meetings are held,
our expression of worship and praise to God. To, me, or wherever people gather to worship, there will be sing-
one of the great gifts of God to the human race is the ing, for God has planned that man should evidence his
gift of creating sound, and though this sound may vary
in different cultures and countries, it conveys mean-
ing. It represents a thought. It stimulates action.
Practically every phase of our lives in this 20th
Century is either motivated, governed, or influenced by
music. Our houses are wired for it, our radios are tuned
to it. We exercise to the rhythm of it. It's in the depart-
ment store, in the grocery store, in the business office, in
the dentist's office, and even in some dairy barns.
Have you ever stopped to consider the power of a
groove and the magnetism of a stylus? I believe the most
persuasive force in America today, influencing the mod-
em teen-age mind, is a groove a thousandth of an inch
deep. It can inspire us to "climb any mountain, to ford
any stream," to fight any battle and to love even our
enemies. Soldiers march to it, children play to it, the
world dances to it, critics listen to it, and the devout
worship God with it. Little wonder that it is such a vital
part of our everyday existence, and because it is, it is
only natural that every great moving of the Spirit of God
through history has been accompanied by inspired music.
When Martin Luther, the leader of the Reformation,
wanted to teach a spiritual truth to his followers, he
would write a song and state that truth in the lyrics. The
songs were then sung in the fields, in the market places
and in the homes, and the truths they contained were
passed on to succeeding generations. They were used to
comfort and encourage the people in times of persecution
and distress. They were used in expressions of worship
and praise and gratitude to God for His divine providence,
protection and provision.
So when we speak of music in connection with the Cliff Barrows
Billy Graham crusade meetings, we are not talking about
a peculiar and unique innovation, employed to appeal to
14 Billboard The World of Religious MusicBILLY GRAHAM CRUSADE
worship and praise through music and sound. All creation mous response was "music." The next question was,
was endowed by the Creator to express itself in this "What kind of music?" And immediately they replied
manner. Even the strange sounds of heavenly bodies, dis- "music with a heart."
tinguishable only to the trained scientific ear through the We have tried over the years to use the best type of
use of the most sensitive equipment, are sounds that God music that we could use in the limited time available in
has put in His universe to glorify and praise Him. The our crusade services. We have tried to combine some of
Lord answered Job: "Where wast thou when I laid the the sacred classics with the more popular Gospel songs.
foundations of the earth . . when the morning stars
. There are many on both ends of the scale that we have
sang together? . ."
. not used, but always we have tried to major on "music
It is only natural, therefore, that the works of the with a heart."
great masters, the anthems of praise, the songs of worship Basically, the music in our crusades consists of three
and testimony should represent the religious expression parts-the congregational singing, the crusade choir and
of man's relationship to God. the vocal and instrumental artistry of George Beverly
During these years, I have had the privilege of en- Shea, Tedd Smith, and Don Hustad. People come to the
couraging countless thousands of people to sing. It has meetings with all sort of preconceived ideas as to what
been my joy to conduct some of the largest choirs, I will take place. Some of them are wondering when the
suppose, that have ever gathered to sing the praises of excitement is going to start-it does when 20,000 or more
God, and this ministry has never lost its thrill to me. people begin to sing a great hymn or a Gospel song.
Several weeks before the London Crusade began, a Perhaps some of the greatest emotional impacts that
group of teen-agers, most of whom were totally unrelated have been made upon my heart and life have been while
to any church, were gathered together for discussion about a large crusade choir was singing an anthem of praise.
the coming meetings. They were asked what could be George Beverly Shea has had the opportunity of singing
used to interest them in the crusade. What would bring the Gospel to more people in the world than any other
the teen-agers of London out to the meetings. The unani- man, and I am certain that his vocal interpretation of a
Gospel song has been used of God to move people closer
to His Kingdom.
It is true that music has touched many people who
would not have been moved by any other means, and over
the years we have received hundreds of letters from
people who have shared with us the story of their own
conversion to Christ. Oftentimes it has been the impact
of a song which the Spirit of God used to awaken interest
and quicken the conscience, producing a response.
Some time ago, I received a letter from an Ohio lady
who had been overcome by the pressures and problems
of life and had decided to end it all. She closed the win-
dows and doors of her apartment, covered the cracks
with towels, turned on the gas and the radio so that the
music would help her forget what she was doing. She
stretched out on the floor and waited for the end to come.
In the few minutes that followed, the program on the
station changed and the "Hour of Decision" came on with
the singing of the choir and George Beverly Shea. It was
during the song that Bev sang, "No One Ever Cared for
Me Like Jesus," that the Spirit of God awakened her.
She managed to get the door open and as she listened to
the song and the message that followed, she opened her
heart and life to the Saviour.
In her letter to me she told of a new purpose for
living that she had found in Christ and she expressed her
particular appreciation for the song that Bev sang. Sui-
cides have been averted, hate, envy have been forgotten,
problems have been solved and commitments to Christ
have been made through the singing of hymns and songs.
As far as the importance of music in the crusades is
George Beverly Shea concerned, I have these observations to make.
is a featured First, it helps to create the right atmosphere for each
soloist with the Billy Graham Crusade. service. This is especially important in outdoor stadiums,
The World of Religious Music Billboard 15large indoor arenas, exhibition halls, or auditoriums where students, civic groups, press -conferences and the like. But
a religious service is quite an innovation to the "regular in the setting of a crusade meeting, where hundreds and
fare." People come from all walks of life, from every even thousands of people have gathered to worship God,
conceivable background, some to whom a religious service to express their own joy and happiness in Him and to
is completely foreign. It is important that this "strange- listen to the message from His servant, music provides a
ness" be dispelled and that a warm and united atmosphere channel through which preparation and participation can
in the meeting be felt. Music, I believe, is the most logical be accomplished.
and effective way to do this. Music in our crusades, or in any form of worship,
The second reason why music is so important is that should not be an end in itself. It is a God-given medium
it provides an outlet for expression. Participation is recog- of expression that we can use to make our own worship
nized as one of the most desirable ways of creating more meaningful and the expression of our Christian con-
interest and involvement in any endeavor. When people victions more effective.
who have come to a meeting are given a chance to express Music communicates for evil or for good. It can
together in song their feelings, it frees them from personal stimulate or produce the most noble desire or the most
problems and concerns that have occupied their minds base response in an individual. It was the wild, sensuous
and brings into focus the central thoughts and purpose dance of the daughter of Herodias that caused King Herod
of that service. to grant the wish of his godless queen. John the Baptist
This degree of participation varies from one person was beheaded. On the other hand, music was used by
to another, but it is always amazing to see how a song King Saul to soothe his troubled nerves and to drive the
can capture the interest of the most uninterested, and evil spirit from him.
unconsciously they become a part of the congregation by Music is used for relaxation and for meditation. In
participation and not just a bystander. the quiet and solitude it stirs and awakens the innermost
There are many reasons why I believe that music is thoughts of man, thoughts that are often drowned or
so important in a crusade meeting, but perhaps the most squelched in a world of confusion and feverish activity.
important reason is that it can be used by the Spirit of Music can motivate and stir into action that which is
God to prepare the audience for the message that Mr. dormant and passive. Music can be used to demonstrate
Graham is to bring. A point of contact is established through its hearers that message it seeks to convey. This
through the medium of song which I believe is helpful places a unique and fearful, yet challenging responsibility
in creating a receptive heart and mind for the message on the composer, the author, the performer, the announcer
that will be given. and all who are involved with it. Let us not forget the
The Word of God can certainly be communicated power it possesses. Let us enjoy the pleasure that it brings.
without music and there are a good many situations Let use be selective in its use and then let us use it for
where Mr. Graham has spoken to crowds of people and the greatest good of all mankind.
we have not had any music. This is particularly true with Music, maestro, please.
46iceiee ,ibew'ok
,66e.Arte,
//7//t
mv1
TIM SPENCER, INC., 1328 NORTH HIGHLAND, HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA 90028
16 Billboard The World of Religious MusicBURL
IVES
SONGS OF JOY
THE iNSIERE
nmyS011
BEST
...11,a1191F MINNA
lAE {NOSE 1111:11
+1, ..05 !mum
MY ALTAR
The
Jimmie Davis "Will
Circle Be Unbroken", "Life's
Railway To Heaven", "Here's My
IN SUNSHINE IN MY SOUL Burl Ives
"Where He Leads Me", "Standing
On The Promised Land", "Fairest
Buryin' Ground" and Others. Lord Jesus" and Others.
DL 4763(M) DL 74763(S) DL 4320(M) DL 74320(S)
This World
SACRED
Is 11 ot
My Home
and
HYMNS Loretta Lynn "Peace In THE WORLD IS NOT MY HOME
The Valley", "How Great Thou Art", Jimmy Martin "Player Bells Of
"In The Sweet Bye And Bye", and Heaven", "Voice Of My Savior",
Others. DL 4695(M) DL 74695(S) "Lord I'm Comin' Home", and
DL 4360(M) DL 74360(S)
GOSPEL{
Others.
fitilleellbar 131 (hush
Samlnyillormbig
mot>
BILL MONROE
AND HIS BLUE GRASS BOYS IS ON
I'LL MEET YOU IN CHURCH SUN- BOW THY HEAD Webb Pierce
DAY MORNING Bill Monroe "Mas- "Softly and Tenderly''. "Far Away",
ter Builder", "Farther Along", "Standing On The Promises", and
"Going Home", and Others. Others. DL 4384(M) DL 74384(S)
DL 4537(M) DL 74537(S) DECCA RECORDS is a Division of MCA Inc.
r pr
THE
!Excel> Take t rh\ oss GOLDEN
GOSPEL
ERNEST FAMILY THE KITTY WELLS FAMILY (1/040 """""--""" THE WILBURN
I VL Bel TM PLO WM 11.1,01001111.0 MUNI
hrl'n)-/(f''
'"' "'"' BROTHERS
TUBB La BIBLE "'" """.
FILL LINII LOWY. ON WILLS I011 WIXOM
BILLY GRAMMER
Iwir
THE FAMILY BIBLE Ernest Tubb THE KITTY WELLS FAMILY GOSPEL TAKE UP THY CROSS Wilburn GOLDEN GOSPEL FAVORITES Billy
"I Saw The Light", "Precious SING "Precious Memories", "I'm Brothers "Steal Away," "Move Up A Grammer "The Ninety & Nine",
Memories", "The Great Speckled On My Way", "Old Country Church", Little Closer", "I Feel Like Travel- "Mansion Over The Hilltop", 'Be-
Bird", and Others. and Others. ing On", and Others. yond The Sunset", and Others.
DL 4397(M) DL 74397(5) DL 4679(M) DL 74679(S) DL 4464(M) DL 74464(S) DL 4460(M) DL 74460(5)
IM) Monaural IS) Stereo
The World of Religious Music Billboard 17Their Music Spreads the Word
The trio has a couple of albums out. The first one was
WILLIAM J. GAITHER released on their own Gaither Music label, and Gaither
admits it "wasn't too professional." However, they re-
Most gospel groups have one or more members who cently recorded for Heart Warming Records in Nashville
write songs and they publish and sing and record their own and he has better hopes for it.
material. So, at best, it's a rare thing when an "outsider" In his own opinion, the best song he and his wife
becomes known for his songwriting. But a husband -and- wrote was "The Longer I Serve Him (the Sweeter He
wife songwriting team in Alexandria, Ind., has had about Grows)."
30 songs published since they started writing in 1959. "But songwriting has been a slow thing, at best. We
This includes "He Touched Me," which has been recorded publish sheet music ourselves, a little business we operate
more than 15 times, including records by five or six of right here at home. It's getting to be a real nice mail-
the major gospel groups. order business. My sister, Marianne Gaither, helps oper-
William J. Gaither and his wife, Gloria, both teach ate it."
English at Alexandria High School. Gaither was a mem- The text is vitally important in gospel songwriting-
ber of the Gaither Trio with his brother and sister. They "being able to say deep feelings in a fresh way." A lot of
performed mostly in the Midwest. "We used a lot of the the ideas for songs come from messages from ministers,
songs of Mosie Lister, whom I feel is one of the greatest worship situations, a friend, the Bible. "The other week in
writers of the field. But I began to feel, also, a need for Chicago we were listening to organ music. Afterwards,
certain types of expression; we wanted to add something." Bob Benson of Heart Warming Records came over and
A lot of the songs the Gaithers write come from per- said he'd been thinking of how God is near all the time and
sonal experiences. maybe we could write a song about it. We did-These
"My wife helps a lot on the words. Two factors help us Are the Times When God Seems So Near.' "
in our songwriting-working with young people at the A song titled "In the Upper Room" recently earned a
high school so we can keep our hands on the needs of letter from a minister who wrote to say he'd used the song
youths. My brother and sister live in Alexandria and we in communion services.
still. perform on weekends; this contact with people in "This is a thrill; we're happy to be a part of providing
churches helps also in writing songs." music for people like this."
MOSIE LISTER
"My strong conviction is that sacred
music can best be written in a prayer-
ful attitude. I believe that our ideas
come from God, and that it's up to us
to do the very best with them that we
can. It is in this way that I try to
work."
These are the thoughts of Mosie
Lister. a truly inspired, prolific writer
of gospel music, whose songs have
been recorded by such outstanding
solo artists as Jimmy Dean, Jim
Reeves, Don Gibson, Red Foley, Elvis
Presley. Webb Pierce, George Beverly
Shea, Jack Holcomb, Faron Young
and Jimmie Davis. All of the great
gospel singing groups have performed
and recorded Lister -written songs, in-
cluding the Statesmen, LeFevres, Mosie Lister
Blackwood Brothers and Rebels.
Born in Cochran, Ga., Lister became of 17, he was studying harmony and counterpoint and arranging for piano
interested in writing at an early age, composition, his tone deafness having and organ.
influenced by his parents who sang in disappeared. His first serious writing was done
the church choir. They attempted to After a tour with the Navy in World for gospel groups that sang in Atlanta
teach Mosie to sing at an early age, War II, in which he studied engineer- in the late 1940's. Professional gospel
but they discovered he was tone deaf. ing under the V-12 program at Rens- groups that performed early Lister
He began to study the violin in the selaer Polytechnic Institute, Lister en- material were the Statesmen, the
eighth grade and this aided his ability tered Middle Georgia College where he Blackwoods, the Blue Ridge Quartet,
to distinguish pitches, and by the age majored in English, studied harmony, (Continued on page 20)
18 Billboard The World of Religious MusicBLLY GRAHAM
WORLD'S FAIR PAVILIOH
BILLY
GRAHAM
THE BILLY GIRAHAid BILLY GRAHAM PRESENTS FROM HIS WORLD'S
CRUSADE
LOS ANGELES CRUSADE CHOIR FAIR PAVILION "MAN IN THE 5TH DIMENSION"
5,000 voices directed by Cliff Barrows. The soundtrack album from the motion
Featuring George Beverly Shea. He's Got picture, with Billy Graham's message on
the Whole World In His Hands He's the how to find peace with God. Music com-
Christ of Every Crisis . Onward, Christian posed and conducted by Ralph Carmichael.
Soldiers Wonderful Grace of Jesus The
Lord's Prayer Until Then Glorious Is RCA Camden CAL -813 CAS -813
Thy Name Hallelujah Chorus and others.
RCA Victor LPM 2788 LSP 2788
CHOIR BILLY
GRAHAM
Available from
your local
Bible Book Store
INTERNATIONAL
CRUSADE or write
ALBUMS
As Directed by
Cliff Barrows nkwoi
it.rd
BILLY GRAHAM
INTERNATIIONAL CRUSADE CHOIRS
,Y--ii/.40041/
with George Beverly Shea. Directed by Cliff
Barrows. 25,000 voices from Crusades in
New York; Glasgow, Scotland, San Francis- 1313 Hennepin Avenue
co; London; Frankfurt,'Germany; Sydney,
Australia; Gothenburg, Sweden; Melbourne, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55403
Australia and other cities.
RCA Victor LPN/ 2088
Look for the London Crusade Album, Available January, 1967(Continued from page 18) mind as he read from the Psalms the known titles as "Then I Met the Mas-
the Jordanaires and the LeFevres. In words of David imploring, "Lord, hide ter," "He Knows Just What I Need,"
1948 the Statesmen employed Mosie not Thy face from me." The finished "I'm Bound for the Kingdom" and
as an arranger, and in this capacity he product became one of the composer's "Led by the Master's Hand." All of
introduced a number of new sounds strongest sacred tunes. his sacred material is published under
to gospel quartet singing, including Lister rarely uses a piano or guitar the banner of Mosie Lister Publica-
the modern harmony which is used ex- to write his songs. "My first harmony tions, located in Tampa, Fla., where
tensively today. teacher taught me to write mentally- he lives with his wife and twin daugh-
On the subject of inspiration, Lister that is, to be able to 'hear' chord ters.
feels that it can't be explained. "I progressions and melodies and to be A devoted Christian in his personal
can't (explain it) except to say that able to visualize a complete composi- life as well as in his occupation. Mosie
I think the best way to receive it is to tion without the use of an instrument. is a deacon at the Riverside Baptist
keep one's mind open to the Giver of Sometimes I use the piano to work out Church in Tampa, where he also finds
all things." Mosie's best-known, most - certain types of melodies, sometimes time to teach a Sunday school class
recorded sacred song, "How Long Has the guitar to establish certain rhythms of young men, sing in the adult choir
It Been?" is the composer's personal or chord progressions. and direct a men's chorus which he
testimonial to the power of the Lord "My starting point may be with a organized five years ago.
in thought stimulation. Struggling with phrase that works as a title, a short In speaking of the Christian mes-
an idea based on the complete and musical theme, a literary idea or a sage of the gospel song, Mosie says.
simple faith of a child, Lister was at- Bible verse," Mosie said, or "some- "I think it would be tragic if gospel
tempting to convey a thought to adults times a song just seems to be 'born' music should become overly commer-
that would "cause them to reassess all at once without an originating cialized. Its basic appeal is in the realm
their faith in God. I asked God to idea." After he finds a solid starting of the spirit, and commercial aspects
help me express what I was thinking point, he says, "I write my own words, rightly should remain secondary. I
and it came to me all at once. It took usually writing the words and music grow more and more convinced that
me 15 minutes (to write) at the most." simultaneously, as this makes them the essential message in gospel music
Written in 1956, the song continues more unified and natural." After the does not and should not change. Some-
to inspire artists and audiences every- song is complete, he will then write times it's clothed in slightly different
where. It has been used in number of the vocal arrangements for the four- garments, but Christ is always at the
evangelistic meetings, including the part harmony that characterizes gos- center of it and to try to remove Him
Billy Graham Crusades where it was pel singing. In developing his songs, from it is to bring failure."
sung by George Beverly Shea. Mosie heeds the advice of one of his As a Christian businessman and
Lister has also found inspiration in first teachers, "find a melody people composer, Mosie feels that "The key
the Bible. In composing "Where No can hum and a title they can remem- to success lies in hard work, a clean
One Stands Alone," he had written ber . . find a good idea and develop
. Christian life, continuing self-improve-
the last half of the song and had spent it as simply as possible." ment and a consistent prayer life."
more than a year searching for a start- This formula has been highly suc- As he sincerely believes and as his
ing point. In reading the Bible, the cessful for Lister, whose catalog of gospel song so simply states, "The
song's beginning flashed into Lister's religious songs includes such well- King and I Walk Hand in Hand."
J. D. SUMNER
"Inside the Gate," "The Old Country Church," "Keep
Me," "God Made a Way" and "Lord Teach Me How
to Pray."
To the world of gospel music these are magical titles.
They are some of the many songs written by J. D. Sumner.
noted composer of gospel songs and one of the the leading
proponents of the gospel field.
His songs, Sumner says, are generally the result of a
sudden inspiration. He adds: "It is a mood type of thing.
and as a rule the song is completed rapidly." Sumner has
written as many as five and six in one day and he has a I. D. Sumner
total of 250 recorded copyrights to his credit.
Sumner was raised in Florida, and as a youngster he ranking second and publishing third. Publishing activity, he
started singing in a church choir. "Twenty-two years ago pointed out, is necessary for exposure. "It leads to record-
a quartet heard me at a Sunday singing convention and ings and performances."
they asked me to join them. I did. The group was the There are of course a great many standards in the
Sunny South Quartet. After that, I went with the Sunshine gospel field; but in order to maintain a flow of good
Boys of Atlanta. We made films during this period, singing original song material the Stamps organization maintains
gospel music as cowboys. In 1954 I joined the Blackwood a staff of paid writers, and J. D. Sumner is the chief
Brothers and remained until 1965, when I went with the of these. His best song, from the standpoint of income.
Stamps Quartet in what can be called an organizational is "Inside the Gate," which has been recorded by some
change. The Blackwoods had purchased the Stamps Quar- 75 groups. Sumner notes, however, that his most popular
tet music company and I was in charge of that. song is "The Old Country Church."
Sumner says that recordings are the primary source The most important medium of exposure for gospel
of income from gospel music today, with performances (Continued on page 23)
20 Billboard The World of Religious MusicRecording Exclusively for Canaan Records
Grammy Award Nominees -1965 DON LIGHT TALENT INC.
hhtte 209 806 17th .1t South
Best Gospel Album-"What a Happy Time" rehneser .17203 61.5 156-01120AINS N G 1 SPEL SING ILEE
OURI S ORI A BO S ARVES
E S DI IE E HOE H L K NED
HA PY GOOD AN AMI Y UE
E Q RT LT HE AL ME D IE
CHO S EA HE FO D UA r ET
E VI L T Our E
A v\TEk TED S D NE RI D
IDLE sU RTE 0"E SI
SING UNTO THE LORD
4", liA4 -
r T
:411114111U TuE COURIERS 4MA
...E HARVESTERS QUARTET
see your Distributor or
WORD RECORD DISTRIBUTING
Waco, Texas and Canada
22 Billboard The World of Religious Music(Continued from page 20) ture. . . . Our arrangements are more amplified than
music is broadcasting, Sumner asserts. "The South," he country and western arrangements."
adds, "is still the chief market for gospel music; but it Sumner notes that in gospel quartet music there is more
is no longer the only one because our records are now need for arrangements because there are four singers.
sold in all parts of the United States and Canada." In fact, Sumner, who did background singing with the Sunshine
our songs have been translated in German, Australian, Boys for Red Foley's smash Decca recording, "Peace in
Latin, African and Scandinavian tongues." the Valley," also was in the Blackwoods' biggest selling
The function of promoting the gospel field in such albums.
overseas areas is an important one for the gospel music "Gospel music influences the pop field, and rock and
association, Sumner said.
As the field grows, there is a constant search for new roll has elements which are akin to blues and spirituals,"
locations. "We play some towns six and eight times a year Sumner pointed out, and added: "A song like 'Just a Closer
and sell out . . . we estimate that the areas where we Walk With Thee' is used in all sorts of musical categories.
play constitute only 2 per cant of the nation's total "Some gospel songs," he went on, "came from the
population . . therefore the potential, as the field expands,
.
pop field. . such as 'I Believe,' The Man Upstairs' and
.
is tremendous." 'You'll Never Walk Alone.' "
Sumner feels a country and western audience is always Sumner points out that there is an evolution in the
a potential audience for gospel music. "Very often," he world of music, and artists educate the audience: "Twenty
added, "the country and western star records what the years ago we would sing a song straight and simple. . . .
gospel star made popular." Today, an audience accepts and appreciates a complex
Sumner defined a few terms: "Gospel," he said, "means arrangement whereas years ago they would frown on it."
bearer of good news . . . the term country gospel includes He added: "Each generation seeks a different beat, and
the same material we sing . . and country and western
. we try to furnish songs for the trend of the day. Our
music and gospel music came from the same type of material has become more complex . . whereas gospel
.
environment: the Southern plantation and Southern cul- songs used to have three chords, they now have 15 to 20."
Brumley, as well as other members of the quartet, taught
singing and even tuned pianos-"anything to stay in the
ALBERT BRUMLEY business." But all the time, he said, "my heart was set on
a writing career.'
His works are considered so beautiful that two of His first published tune was "I Can Hear Them Sing-
the nation's major gospel groups-the Statesmen of RCA ing Over There," which was published in September, 1926.
Victor Records and the Chuck Wagon Gang of Columbia "It was pretty popular, in a limited way, but not one of my
Records-have each recorded an album featuring only better tunes."
his songs. The great songs-and he has had more than Where does he get his ideas for songs? "If I could only
600 published-Albert Brumley has written include "I'll answer that in a book, I'd be a wealthy man." He traced
Fly Away," "Jesus Hold My Hand," "I'd Rather Be many of his songs to a "knowledge of public feelings.
an Old -Time Christian," and "Turn Your Radio On." Only a few of my songs are written from actual personal
experiences. I took them more from the way I thought
His favorite, depending on his particular mood at a people felt about religion. Some tunes, I've been a year
particular time, he said, is "I'll Fly Away." In a senti- or more working on. I'll get part of it fixed, then have
mental mood, he prefers "I'll Meet You in the Morn- to wait for another idea to hit me to finish it."
ing" and "If We Never Meet Again." Featured in "Who's Who," Brumley has had more
Brumley said that he was raised on a little cotton than 100 of his religious songs recorded by major labels.
farm in Oklahoma. It was E. M. Barlett, president of So far, he's never written any music for the popular field,
the Hartford Music Co. musical institute and writer of but feels he might someday. "Always felt like I could
such gospel tunes as "Victory in Jesus," who took Brum- do it. But it's sort of a waste of time unless you have the
ley under his wing and helped him through school. Friends market. I have a market for gospel material because I've
had recommended him for a musical career and got him been so closely associated with it."
acquainted with the Hartford, Ark., firm president. One of his songs was written to say good -by. "In my
After he finished school, Brumley worked with various younger days, I traveled a lot. Met a lot of people I
Hartford quartets. The quartets, he said, were comparable liked, but could never be with them much. Sort of felt
with the Blackwood Brothers of today. During this period, like I needed a way to say good -by when I had to go
and because gospel groups didn't have the transportation along, so I wrote "If We Never Meet Again" and used
facilities of today's groups, earnings weren't always good. that to tell them all good -by."
better than to say, 'I'm going to write,' he said, is based on a phrase "I heard
RUSTY GOODMAN but a lot of times I'll kneel down and a little man say in his testimony." That
say, "Lord, I like to write." This often tune has been recorded by nearly
helps." every major gospel quartet, by ex -
The power of prayer has played a The church has played an inspira- Louisiana Gov. Jimmie Davis, and
great role in the songwriting of Rusty tional part in his songs. "I Wouldn't by country artist Connie Smith. It
Goodman, one of the performers in Take Nothing for My Journey Now," was published by Jimmie Davis' pub-
the Goodman Family. "If it's a good his first tune, came to him one day in lishing firm. But later Goodman
song, with meaning, there's question Madisonville, Ky., when he went to a started his own publishing firm-
about where it comes from. I know church to play the organ. The song, (Continued on page 24)
The World of Religious Music Billboard 23(Continued from page 23)
Journey Music. In all, he has now
written 20 tunes; all have been re-
"Greetings to all my corded.
"The Answer's on the Way," he
wrote one day when feeling despond-
friends in the world ent over things. Seeking solace in
prayer, he was reminded of a verse of
of religious music" scripture which said that your heaven-
ly father knows what you have need
of. If that's true, he thought, then the
answer is on the way. Not only did
the prayer refresh him, but he had a
Jimmie
song.
The Goodman Family was founded
in the late 1930's. "Back in the '50's.
there was a slew of us," Goodman
said, "-eight." But the group broke
Davis when Rusty and Sam of the family
went into military service about eight
years ago. When he got out of the
army, Rusty joined the Plainsmen.
He lived in Baker, La., about eight
miles from Baton Rouge. One day on
the way to visit the governor (Jimmie
Davis) he wrote "Come a Little Clos-
er" and presented it to Davis when he
arrived.
LATEST SINGLE Though his "Journey" tune is his
biggest one to date, "Who Am I" has
DEAR shown evidence of being even bigger.
said Goodman.
"I've written ever since I was a
SON kid-made up rhymes, you know. But
I've only been writing professionally
JJ about seven years. I might get the
idea from someone's testimony or
,omething said in a sermon or a phrase
LATEST ALBUM somebody uses. When the idea hits me,
it may take anywhere from 12 to 15
THE minutes to write the tune. Usually the
song just flows out. The words come
to me faster than I can write them
GOSPEL down. Usually the melody comes with
the lyrics.
In 1963. the Goodman Family re-
HOUR grouped to cut an album. "I had no
plans to get back into the family
operation," Goodman said, "but things
just happened. I really didn't want
back into the family business, but the
album began to sell well and the pub-
lic demanded it."
Featuring some entirely new songs with a
few old favorites.
THE
RITHINATIONAL
!NUM
OF BILLBOARD
GROWS
AND
Inquiries:
Jimmie Davis, Box 2626, Shreveport, La. GROWS
24 Billboard The World of Religious MusicCHOOSE 4 OF THE WORLD'S BEST
GOSPEL ALBUMS FREE
THE BLUE RIDGE PLAINSMEN Up to $19.92 in Free Records
THE NAPPY GOMM 7e- It Quartet
IME NAPPY 50001111115
At% Special Invitation Offer to
0111ANS
DINANS
IRONS
HANS
ntitink,
ltorelv.
Everyone Who Loves the
82- THE gBEST OF 269 THE BLUE 369- COME Ol'ihe 265 PLAINSMEN
THE HA Pe =14-
16VdSman Family
The Wk
Blue 31416E;i
The Streets Of Gold
et IVFeraelig4r!Qu;rtet
It Will Be Worth It I
WAATATmen Quartet
The Touch of His Hand
Best in Gospel Music
I Wouldn't Take Nothing Precous Memories Lord Can Tell You The Time Somebody Up There Likes
For My Journey more I'm Coming Home others Me more
SUM All the Leading Quartets
M 4. F FEVRE'
1111 SINGING TOP YOUTH
REVIVALTIME CHOIR
WM" The Florida Boys, The Happy Goodman
CFA 47.
I a
All I'M
?taw
Jti PLAINSMEN
QUARTET Family And many others
SONGS Of HAITINES's
VOL. 2 Free Subscription to
TN; VANCUARDS
Your Monthly Gospel Music Magazine
57. SONGS OF 272 THE FOURTH 96- GLAD I'M 266. PLAINSMEN Look over all of the 24 leading Gospel Music Albums on this
ligtieM Trio
I've Been With Jesus
Itaanguards Quartet
The Fourth Man How t's A Wonderful, Won-
oir
- Vol. II
en Quartet page. Pick out 4 you want free. Then pick one more album as
Take A Look In The Book Greet Thou Art I Can derful Life He Keeps How Great Thou Art If your first regular selection and you are a member of America's
He Can Call Jesus Call Jesus Trust And Me Singing a Happy Song We Never Meet Again
largest, most popular Club for Gospel Music Lovers-The
1
Anytime more Believe others more others
Canaan Record Club. You'll hear and own the latest and finest
albums by the great names of Gospel Music. The voices and
quartets that you've heard in Church, in concerts, on the radio
and television all over the land. You'll receive your personal
copy of The Canaan Record Club News every month with
pictures and stories on all your favorites.
256. THE FLORIDA 75- BORN TO 68. OVER YONDER 1 FREE RECORD for Every 2 You Buy
BOYS IN f14Sti-orida THE H3O701nEWY'inr beats Stamps -Baxter Quartet
VI and Norma Zimmer Everything Will Be Jus
1411EQuartet Bore to Serve the Lord Whispering Hope Abide Right I've Never Bee As soon as you have ordered just four more albums, you are
They Tore The Old Coun- I Will Follow Thee More With Me Like A Lamb Sorry Jordan Is Callin
try Church Down Many About Jesus Because Who Needs A Shepherd I've Been A'Waitin' eligible for The Canaan Club Member's Special Discount Plan.
Miles Behind Me more Jesus Said It more others others
Under this plan, you will get one record album free for every
GOSPEL SINGING
JUBILEE BUM IVU THE WHITE SISTERS SING two you order.
FL0111111 SAYS- AWE 1511055
NIPPY 600DAUA FIMIII. COURIERS RAIL WE AjHOWT
HAMER AT
THE AIWA? CANAAN RECORD CLUB P. 0. BOX 1790 WACO, TEXAS
ART
Please send me the 4 FREE Canaan Gospel Albums listed below
plus my first selection as a new Canaan Record Club member.
55- GOSPEL SOTO, 242. SHALL WE 158- HOW GREAT 331. IT'S A WON - Iunderstand that after 10 days I may return all the records
GATHER AT THE and pay nothing, or pay $3.98 for hi-fi - $4.98 for stereo -
The WolAlicfaElFdysv; The TektfAinisters 9e1 Nappy UolOicg;a
Couriers; The Good- 11,11FIVe Gather at the How Great Thou Art Family
man Family and Rim? 0 How Love
1
Precious Memories I Am is A Wonderful Feelin' plus a small postage and handling charge. (Retail value for
The Dixie Echoes Jesus When We All Get
to Heaven others
Not Worthy Showers of
Blessing more
My Lord And I
Regret A Mile more
I Don't all 5 records is up to $24.90). If do not return the records,
I
Jubilee others
I am a full fledged member of the Canaan Record Club and
FIRESIDE HYMNS *THE HARVESTERS will buy 4 more records in the next 12 months from the dozens
WONDERFUL TIME .'OAK mmcc cove
UP THERE offered at the low price of $3.98 each for hi-fi, $4.98 for
PLAINSMEN stereo. From then on am entitled to one FREE record for
QUA -T I
every two I order.
LOO Please send me the following four Albums FREE
The Imerialy (LIST BY
NUMBER)
259. WONDERFUL 307. I'M T?g 1MpRy. 371- FIRESIDE
-2r6h8 h2ggiclf
TliglEkliftstIllinEUrtet l&cirLan Family ReMINmSperials
Not One There
The Oak Ridge Boys
Come All Ye Children Of
My first regular selection is:
Wonderful Time Up There (Mono Only) No, Is
I'm Free Again The I'm Too Near Home A Fountain Sweet Hour The Lord Jesus, Hold
Family Bible Hand In Of Prayer My lesus, My Hand Hide Me, Rock
Hand With Jesus
Born To Serve The Lord
I Saw The Light more Love Thee others
I
Of Ages others Enroll me in the r] Stereo Division El Hi-Fi Division
IrlIE MUMMA IBMS
REBELS COURIERS QUARTET LK,TALK e SING
QUARTET
The TALL MEN QUARTET
PLEASE PRINT NAME ABOVE
LILY Of
THE VALLEY ADDRESS
CITY STATE ZIP CODE
306- LILY OF THE 359- THE SENSA- 258. SACRED GEMS 309. WALK, TALK
TL SOUNDING The Kernels Quartet
VALIReYels Quartet Couriers Quartet Leaning On The Everlast- WI-111111Rn Quartet I
He's The Lily Of The Val. Turn Your Lite Over To ing Arms In The Garden I'm Gonna Walk, Talk and (Hi Fidelity record players use Hi Fidelity records only.)
ley Did You Stop To His The Mighty Man Of Let The Lower Lights Be Sing Amazing Grace
Pray This Morning? Galilee When It All Burning Have Thine Own Wait For Me What Love
Fourth Man others Stilts Happening; others Way others more 4 7 9 1 06
INIM MIN MN MIN NM MEI NMI
The World of Religious Music Billboard 25Don Light, center in dark suit, poses with the two groups forming the nucleus of
the one -year -old Don Light Talent Agency, the first Gospel Music talent agency.
When Light opened the agency a year ago, he signed the Oak Ridge Quartet, left,
and the Happy Goodman Family.
TALENT cAGENCY
for Gospel artists
The first all -gospel talent agency own dates in order to concentrate on gospel artists work the same concerts
was opened in October 1965 by Don their music and performance, and year after year, saturating that par-
Light in Nashville. Light, a musician Light's agency was the answer. An- ticular market, without exposing them-
and former Billboard staff member, other reason for Light's entering the selves to new audiences. Light, in
feels that his idea to open a talent gospel booking field was the common seeking to eliminate the situation,
agency for gospel artists is not an practice of gospel groups and pro- booked the Oak Ridge Boys for three
original one. As he says, "I simply ap- moters to operate without written con- days in Nassau, booked several fairs
plied the method of booking dates tracts, which frequently resulted in in 1966 and plans to book his acts in
that has been used by the country and over 100 fairs next year. Gospel
western people for years and have misunderstandings and cancellations.
Light felt that "the gospel music busi- groups are also making inroads into the
tried to establish the same type of country music shows. Light booked
manager -artist relationship." ness needed to be run as a business."
the Statesmen in a country music spe-
Several important aspects of the Having a booking agent keeps the cial in St. Louis in March, 1966, and
gospel music business influenced Light performer -promoter relationship on a the Chuck Wagon Gang on a country
in his decision to open the Don Light business basis. and western tour this fall, while two
Talent Agency. One reason was the "Many times a promoter could not groups in the Light brigade have ap-
practice of gospel groups booking their obtain a certain group for a concert peared on WSM's "Grand Ole Opry."
own dates. As Don recalls, "Most of without taking certain other groups. The young, ambitious agent, who is
the groups were managed and booked I believe a promoter, as an individual one of the founders of the Gospel
by a member of the group. I felt it was businessman operating a private enter- Music Association, has booked about
virtually impossible to sing and be a prise should be able to buy and pack- 400 dates for his acts during 1966,
performer, spend 30 to 100 hours a age the groups he thinks will have 300 of which have been for the Oak
week on a bus going to and from the best drawing power in his area." Ridge Boys and the Goodman Family,
appearances, devote the amount of As a booking agent, Light can offer his two exclusive clients. Both groups
time on the phone required to do jus- the promoter more selectivity in his have given Light their endorsement in
tice to the task of booking, and keep gospel music shows, and can introduce the form of renewing their respective
up on the latest happennigs in the groups into areas where they never contracts three months prior to the
music business world." expiration dates.
Light's first two clients, the Oak worked in the past.
In the highly competitive field of
Ridge Boys and the Happy Goodman In exploring new areas in which booking talent, Light has made an im-
Family, were anxious to be relieved gospel groups could perform, Light pressive debut, much to the credit of
of the responsibility of booking their has been reasonably successful. Many the entire gospel music field.
26 Billboard The World of Religious MusicYou can also read
