Four Gospel Greats Inducted into Hall of Fame Class of 2025
The Southern Gospel Music Association (SGMA) has officially announced the four distinguished inductees for its 2025 Hall of Fame class, honoring individuals whose contributions have left an indelible mark on Southern Gospel music.
Duane Allen
Renowned as the lead singer of the Oak Ridge Boys, Allen has been a pivotal figure in Southern Gospel and country music. Joining the Oak Ridge Boys in 1966, Allen's dynamic vocals and leadership have propelled the group to international acclaim, bridging the gap between gospel and mainstream music. His induction recognizes decades of dedication and influence in the genre.
Nick Bruno
Bruno's exceptional talent as a pianist, arranger, and producer has made him a sought-after collaborator in Southern Gospel music. His work with prominent artists and groups has not only enriched their sound but also contributed to the evolution of the genre. Bruno's induction celebrates his artistic excellence and impact on gospel music production.
Jimmy Swaggart
Evangelist and musician Jimmy Swaggart's contributions to Southern Gospel are multifaceted Through his television ministry and musical recordings, Swaggart has brought gospel music to a global audience, inspiring countless listeners with his passionate performances and messages of faith. His induction honors his role in expanding the reach of Southern Gospel music.
Jeanette Cooke
Jeanette Cooke, a member of the acclaimed Cooke Family Singers, has been instrumental in shaping the sound and spirit of Southern Gospel. Her soulful voice and heartfelt performances have resonated with audiences, contributing to the group's legacy and the genre's rich tapestry. Cooke's induction acknowledges her enduring influence and artistry.
The official induction ceremony for the SGMA Hall of Fame Class of 2025 is scheduled for September 23, 2025, at the Biblical Times Theater in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This event will celebrate the remarkable achievements of these four individuals and their lasting impact on Southern Gospel music. For more information on the inductees and the upcoming ceremony, visit the Southern Gospel Music Association's official website at https://www.sgma.org/
changes for the hoppers
I’ve Come Too Far: A New Season for The Hoppers
Nashville, TN (April 15th, 2025) – Few groups on the road today share the long-standing history that The Hoppers represent within Southern Gospel music. While the family has faced a plethora of obstacles throughout the years, including considerable health concerns, the group has continuously forged ahead with the mission of sharing the Gospel through song. As the award-winning family group quickly approaches their seventh decade of ministry, The Hoppers have announced a new season as they move into the future.
Group founder and patriarch, Claude Hopper, as well as Connie, a fan-favorite alto and the family matriarch, plan to take a step back: enjoying their home in beautiful North Carolina and some very well-deserved relaxation. Their youngest son, Mike Hopper, will come off the road to care for his parents. As a result, Dean and Kim Hopper, along with their daughter Karlye, and with Claude and Connie’s blessing, will move forward as the latest configuration of The Hoppers, continuing the family’s long legacy as one of the prominent families of Gospel Music.
Dean, Kim and Karlye would like to say thank you for the continuous support and love throughout the years, and request prayers as they enter into the next chapter of The Hoppers.
To learn more about The Hoppers, follow them on social media or visit thehoppers.com
Guardians Quartet changes ownership
Latest News
Founder and owner of The Guardians, Dean Hickman, has decided to step back from The Guardians and turn ownership over to John Darin Rowsey. Dean is extremely grateful to the fans who have made this 37-year journey so incredible. Mostly, he is grateful to the Lord for the many blessings he's been given.
#1 Hits for The Guardians
1. Heaven is Happening
2. Come on In
3. Not For Long
4. It's Still Good News
5. You're Home To Stay (Where We Ever Shall Be)
6. I Wish I Could Tell You
7. Name Above All Names
8. God Fights On My Side
9. Present In The Presence Of The King
10. Woke Up This Morning
Dayton and Katie Gray welcome 1st child
Seth Franklin Gay
March 8th, 2025
8:52 pm
7 lb. 4 oz.
18 1/2 inches
Garrett and Amber Saunders welcome 2nd child
Penelope Lynn Saunders
Penelope Lynn Saunders
Penelope Lynn Saunders
January 4th, 2025
1:37 pm
Penelope Lynn Saunders
Penelope Lynn Saunders
7lb. 15 ounces
19 Inches
the browns are Opening a NEW 400 Seat Music Theater
After 10 Christmas Seasons at The Browns Century Theater located on the corner of Central Ave. Downtown Le Mars. The Browns have outgrown the space. With a capacity of 150 people per show, and adding extra shows to accommodate demand, but still not being able to find seats for many people, we have been planning the next phase for a couple years.
For the past 5+ years we have been performing around 35-40 shows during November and December. With additional 60 shows throughout March-October!
The week of Thanksgiving, Dad (Keith) mentioned his idea about moving the Theater directly behind the current Theater to the building that replaced the Historic Opera House. The building is large enough to fit a 400 seat Theater. Double the space for the Gift Shoppe, Chocolate counters, concessions, and larger bathrooms.
Construction on the New Theater will begin March 1st with an opening date in October of 2025. We are excited for triple the space and no stairs.
January 2025 will be The Browns 25th Anniversary of singing together as a family and this is one of the exciting ways we will continue to share our love of music with others!