Ah, the perks

I have now been writing the SG History 101 articles for Southern Gospel News for nearly three years, and I have to say, as enjoyable as the actual writing of the articles is for me(and I love discussing my[and your]gospel music heroes), almost as enjoyable for me is the preparation for each article.

It was during the preparation for my first real article(on the Couriers), that I was able to establish two of the most significant friendships in my life, those of former Couriers Neil Enloe and Duane Nicholson, and those friendships have gone far beyond the mere writing of an article...they are blessings in my life which I am thankful for daily.

And it was during the research for my article on the Downings that I discovered what wonderful people Ann Downing and Laurie Winton are, and I am proud to call them friends now as well.

And likewise with my article on the Goss Brothers...it was great to get to know Roni Goss, and a distinct honor for me to interview Lari Goss on the phone for more than an hour to get the essence of what made the Goss Brothers so special in the history of gospel music. I've not spoken to them in some time, but both Roni and Lari should know how much I value them and the time they chose to spend with me.

Deon and Susan Unthank never told me about those fringe benefits, but I'm very thankful for them...and it has been an honor and privilege to share the stories of all these great singers and people with all of you. I look forward to continuing to do it.

Today, as I was finishing up my research for my coming article, I had the privilege of speaking on the phone with Ed Hill, the man who organized(and re-organized)the Prophets Quartet...what a delight to speak to such a classy, well-spoken gentleman.

Ed is in the midst of preparing an album of the new Prophets, and has other people and places he must tend to, but he courteously spent some 20 minutes on the phone with me, discussing my subject, the Prophets, and other names in the gospel music business we both knew.

I don't know this from experience, but I can't imagine another part of the music business where the artists are so available and transparent, and willing to share themselves and their stories with virtual strangers.

But as I said, some of them have become some of my best friends.

One thing's for sure...I wouldn't mind talking to Ed Hill again...he is a credit to gospel music...as are all the singers that I have been blessed enough to become friends with over the years.

So, thank you, Deon...thank you, Susan...thank you, Neil...and Duane...and Ann...and Laurie...and Roni and Lari.

And thank you, Ed Hill, for today.

But most of all, thank You, Lord!:-)

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