In Depth…With Jason Funderburk of Driven Quartet

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By Lorraine Walker

In Depth…With Jason Funderburk of Driven QuartetDriven Quartet has been traveling the nation’s highways, singing Gospel music since 2007. Owner Jason Funderburk was literally born into the industry, as he grew up watching his father Danny sing with the Cathedral Quartet. Now his quartet is making their own mark on Gospel music with their new recording and a strong sound, mixing memories of the Cathedrals with a more youthful flavor and energy.

Jason Funderburk joins Southern Styles Show on an In Depth interview and tells us about the new

CD, Takin’ You There. “This project contains some old Cathedral favorites and we have a song included on here that my Grandaddy wrote called “Whiter Than Snow,” says Jason. “ My Dad makes a cameo appearance on it and it will surely bless your heart. Our latest single is “Would Not Be Surprised”.”Will Lane on bass, baritone Chad Smith and Wesley Smith singing tenor join Funderburk in Driven, and their combination of traditional quartet vocals is very reminiscent of Cathedral days. “A lot of folks may not know that we have Wesley Smith as our new tenor,” says Funderburk. “He has been with Palmetto State and Dixie Echoes. Wesley brings a lot of variety to our concert setting. We do a large segment of our concert with piano, bass, and acoustic guitar.”
Funderburk says his favorite song to sing with the group is “Between a Rock and Hard Place,” as well as, “Whiter Than Snow.” Gospel music is in his blood and he loves to travel and sing the message of Jesus Christ. “ My favorite thing about traveling with these guys is that it’s like traveling with three brothers,” says Jason. “We are a family. I would not be scared to say that we get along with each other off stage just as well as we do on stage because of our kinship.”Will is our encourager. He is always ready to sing no matter the circumstances,” shares Funderburk. “Chad is our accountability partner. He keeps us grounded in our devotions. And Wesley, he is our down-to-earth guy. He helps keep our stress level down. Well, at times!” laughs Jason.

Thoroughly seasoned in presenting a well-rounded concert, Funderburk says a Driven Quartet presentation is carefully arranged. “I try to construct a good evening of fellowship, ministry and laughter, as well as making the environment comfortable for the guys. I believe that God has allowed me to share the Lord with others through song and I truly enjoy it. I try to always keep others uplifted and strive to be as organized as possible.”

Sharing the Lord with others requires a commitment to regular communication with Him, which Jason says comes through personal devotions. “I try to strengthen my relationship daily with the Lord. I begin each new day reading a passage from a very special book that my best friend gave me entitled God Moments. This helps get my day started off on the right track,” says Funderburk. “Another one of my favorite authors is A. W. Tozer.” ”Something that has really spoken to me lately is our church’s recent study of the book of Daniel,” Jason comments. “The strength and faith of Daniel has been a very big source of encouragement at this time of my life.”

Funderburk shares that one of his goals for this year is to spend more time with his family. “I keep my family strong by good open communication and continuous love,” says Jason. “I keep them strong in the Lord by depending on Him with all decisions we make and allowing Him to lead, guide and direct our paths. The one thing I cannot live without is the love and support of family and friends.” On a more humorous note, Funderburk admits that he isn’t always as strong as he should

be. “One habit I know I should break but can’t would be eating sweets after 9pm!”

Jason has been in the Gospel music spotlight for many years but claims there are things that might take his audience by surprise. “One thing that very few people know about me is that I love to fish and hunt,” he says. “And my favorite TV show is Duck Dynasty.”Jason Funderburk and Driven Quartet continue to share the “Boundless Love” of Jesus Christ through new songs and old, bringing the timeless message to audiences of all ages. As Jason says, they are “Lovin’ the Lord, Lovin’ Life” as they are Driven4Him.

For more information on Jason Funderburk and Driven Quartet, as well as their tour

 

schedule, visit: http://www.drivenqt.com/home

 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/funderburkjason

 

Twitter: @funderburkjason

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Biblical Times Theater Interview With Rhonda Frye

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May 2013 SGNScoops Magazine

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In Depth…With Bob Sellers of The Kingsmen

Bob Sellers headshotIn Depth…With Bob Sellers of The Kingsmen

By Lorraine Walker

Southern Styles Show was happy to talk with Bob Sellers, as we continue our regular feature
entitled “In Depth With”. In upcoming features, we will allow you to get to know your
favorite artists just a little better by asking questions you may have always wanted to ask.
If you have a favorite artist please email us and tell us what you would like to know about
them!

Gospel Music Association’s Hall of Fame members. Dove award winners. Grammy
nominated artists. After over five decades of quartet singing, The Kingsmen seem
indefatigable, regardless of health issues and personnel changes. Their strong traditional
harmonies, powerhouse ballads and convention-style upbeat songs engage their audiences
from coast to coast, with each Kingsmen vocalist giving it their all night after night.
Member Bob Sellers talks to SGM Radio about his Kingmen adventure, going ‘in-depth’
as we discuss his co-workers, his family and his personal walk with the Lord.

Bob Sellers is one of the most positive, optimistic quartet men in Southern Gospel. From
Facebook to Twitter, his conversations with fans are personal, funny and transparent.
Sellers is obviously a people-person and this overflows into his workplace, the bus and
the stage of a full-time gospel group. He talks about the latest news from the Kingsmen.

“Well, the best news is that Ray Dean Reese is doing great after having had his prostrate
removed almost a year and a half ago due to cancer,” Sellers begins. “The current lineup
will have soon been together for a complete year. The environment on the bus is great.
We really are best friends on and off stage. Musically, we have really jelled as a group.
By that, I mean we have learned each others’ nuances as far as phrasing, who’s going
where and when vocally, how to feed off each other on stage, etc., and since those things
are instinctive now and we no longer have to constantly focus on them, we are better able
to minister and present our music as a single unit.”

The Kingsmen’s latest recording, Once Again, is a compilation of past Kingsmen songs.
With so many great hits in the group archives, Sellers finds it hard to name his favorite.
“God has blessed this group through this years with some of the greatest songs in all
of gospel music,” says Sellers. “We still perform many of the classic hits like ‘Glory
Road,’ ‘Saints Will Rise,’ ‘I Will Rise Up From My Grave,’ ‘Old Ship of Zion,’ and
so many more. That’s the music I grew up listening to and those songs and the voices
behind them are what hooked me on what I believe is the greatest music on earth. To now
be performing those songs with my favorite group is just an honor and a dream come
true.”

“It is really hard to pinpoint one favorite but ‘Look For Me At Jesus’ Feet’ is definitely
high on the list, because it was one of my grandfather’s favorite songs and those who
know anything about me know how great of an impact he had on my life, not only as
a role model but as my pastor,” Sellers shares. “Granddaddy has gone on to Heaven

now and my grandmother joined him there just this past year, so every time I sing that
song I think of them both. I envision the two of them experiencing the message in that
song every time we sing it, and I think of myself falling at Jesus’ feet one day. What a
reunion that will be for all of God’s children! What an awesome promise we have! That
should put a smile on all our faces, no matter what else is going on in our lives.”

Sellers is now able to sing all the Kingsmen songs about Heaven that he grew up with.
He tells us about his start with the power quartet. “I’ve been here since December
2011. I had auditioned in April of 2010 before Randy Crawford returned and from that
experience, I assume, I was afforded the chance to fill in with the group in July of 2011
year for just one night. That itself was a dream come true for me, and I’ll never forget
how natural it felt. I had no butterflies whatsoever and I just happened to know the parts
and the lyrics to all the songs we sang, even though we never had a chance to rehearse.”

Continue reading

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Creekside Gospel Music Convention 2013

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Devin McGlamery Interview With Rhonda Frye For The Southern Styles Show

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April 2013 Edition Of SGNScoops.com

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Rhonda Frye Interview With Doug Anderson For The Southern Styles Show

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MICHAEL ENGLISH SOME PEOPLE CHANGE HITS STREETS MARCH 26

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Nashville, Tenn.  – The wait is over! Acclaimed vocalist, Michael English, is set to release his new release, Some People Change, on March 26, 2013. The highly anticipated project is Michael’s first studio recording in six years and is being released by CURB Records.

Although this is his first solo recording in several years, the gifted singer has hardly been resting. Michael has kept an extremely busy touring and recording schedule as a member of the Grammy® award-winning Gaither Vocal Band.

Michael’s penetrating, power-packed vocals are at the forefront on this new release as he is featured on brand new songs, “That Great Day,” “Waking Up The Dawn,” the current single “Stubborn,” time-tested classics such as “I’d Rather Have Jesus,” and a brand-new version of Michael’s hit song, “In Christ Alone.” A bonus track, “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry,” is included from the film “The Last Ride,” about the life of Hank Williams.

You might hear a few familiar voices on some of the tunes. Russ Taff is featured on “Come To The River,” a cover of the pop classic, “I Knew You Were Waiting,” finds Crystal Lewis lending her vocals, The Martins bring their family harmony to “On That Great Day,” and Michael’s musical brothers – Mark Lowry, David Phelps and Wes Hampton – are featured on the Happy Goodmans’ tune, “I Wouldn’t Take Nothin’ For My Journey Now.”

Some People Change features tunes from hit songwriters Neil Thrasher, Don Koch, Ben Hayslip, Jimmy Yeary, George Beverly Shea, Hank Williams, Jason Sellers, Jonny Lang, Jenny Lee Riddle, Rusty Goodman among others. “It all begins with a song,” says Michael. “I was blessed to get some of the best songs I’ve ever heard – some old and some new – on this CD! I had a blast singing the words of these writers.”

Masterfully produced by long-time friend, Jay DeMarcus, Michael knew Jay was the perfect fit for this recording. “No one knows my voice better than Jay,” Michael affirms. The two had previously worked together on Gospel (1998), and even a hint of Michael’s native North Carolina comes to the fore with subtle, yet distinct country flair.

Some People Change is currently available for pre-orders on MichaelEnglishMusic.com and all orders from the website will be autographed by Michael. Some People Change releases March 26 and will be available on iTunes, Amazon, all digital retailers as well as physical retail outlets such as Lifeway, Walmart and others.

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LOVE IS STRONGER CD Release Celebration With Jason Crabb

JasonWhat a night at Free Chapel in Gainesville, Georgia! Pastor Jentezen Franklin opened the doors to
the Worship Center welcoming the Grammy winning, reigning GMA Dove Male Vocalist and Artist of
the Year, Jason Crabb. This wasn’t an ordinary concert, but a special night of celebration of the highly
anticipated release of LOVE IS STRONGER. Jason was joined by family, friends, special guests and a
house packed with enthusiastic fans eager to sample the new music. This new music is geared up to
reach all ages, genres and the world with the love of Christ.

Following a warm introduction, Jason claimed the stage in style- all dressed up in a hot pink jacket! He
opened the night with the first track off the album, “Give.” Judging by the crowd’s response, it was
obvious from the first few lines of the song that Jason’s new music was going to be received well.

The crowd listened intently as Jason sang “I’m a mess today cause yesterday I followed the desires of my
foolish heart into the dark…Feeling far away, need a couple days to work real hard to hit the mark to
get myself back in good with you. What a waste, what a losing game cause…..” After the pause, Jason
broke into the chorus… “That’s What The Blood Is For,” and the crowd broke out into applause, many
rising to their feet. “What The Blood Is For,” written by Ronnie Freeman and Tony Woods, is Crabb’s
first single to Southern Gospel radio.

Sprinkled throughout the night were video messages of congratulations from Barbara Mandrell, Larry
Gatlin, Kari Jobe and also Bill Gaither. All were personal and meant to be treasured by Crabb, but Bill
Gaither’s words were profound: “…You’re changing the world,” Gaither commented.

Finding it hard to find the right words to express gratefulness, Jason welcomed Wayne Jason2Haun and
Jay DeMarcus to the stage to discuss2462MEDIA$IMAG0160 the production of the album. Everyone
laughed as Jason admitted to how nervous he was during the project’s beginning stages. Both Haun and
DeMarcus had encouraging words for Crabb and expressed high hopes of the record crossing over into
the mainstream market. “It’s time we let the world in on our little secret,” DeMarcus said. The crowd
clapped, cheered, and whistled in enthusiastic response!

Pastor Jentezen Franklin spoke similar words of encouragement for the album to go beyond the
Christian market and prayed over Jason with boldness and great faith. Obviously humbled, Jason was
grateful for the words of life spoken into his ministry.

Jason was also thankful that longtime friend, best-selling author, Andy Andrews made an appearance at
this special occasion. As soon as Andrews won the crowd with humor, he deposited spiritual truths into
their hearts.

In the course of the evening, Jason showcased the increasingly popular, “Let Mercy Hold You,” and
introduced the song “Near.” Again, the crowd responded in heart-stirred worship standing on their feet
with hands lifted high.

Garnering the most intense response from the audience was “Love Is Stronger.” Being true to his “real”
and transparent character, Jason openly shared a personal experience regarding a recent incident

with his wife’s health. He testified of God’s healing power, but also how their strong love got them
through the trial. Jason then sang the lights out to the album’s title cut. Soaking in the unforgettable
moment, Jason’s brother Adam was one of the first people to stand as Jason’s powerful voice rang out
the powerful message. To say it was received well is an understatement. It seemed the whole crowd
unanimously agreed that this is a song the whole world needs to hear.

Although there were many cameras rolling, more than likely a sweet moment wasn’t captured on
tape, but it was precious indeed! Jason’s daughters kept themselves busy and entertained with their
games on their tablets throughout the night. But, there was something special about Jason’s tender
performance of “Satisfied” that caused them to lose all interest in their own quiet activities. The girls
were literally captivated and drawn in by their dad’s singing in such a sweet way! As the song came to
an end, their hands went up as if they were waiting for just one other person in the audience to start the
applause. As soon as that happened, they clapped vigorously and let out a sweet yell- clearly identifying
that song as their favorite- at least their favorite song of the night.

Before the night came to an end, Jason turned to the band asking for the key of “D” and then sang…”So
many times I’ve questioned…” Needless to say, the whole crowd jumped up and joined Jason in singing
on one of the greatest songs of our time, “Through The Fire,” penned by Jason’s father, Gerald Crabb.
The moment was incredibly sweet as many people sang it from their hearts, testifying to the truth of the
song’s powerful message. Jason then grabbed his guitar and followed up with another smash hit written
by his dad, “Sometimes I Cry.” The crowd loved it!

The LOVE IS STRONGER CD Release celebration was an incredible night and the album itself promises to
touch the hearts of many. Although the future looks incredibly bright for the album, Jason exposed his
heart by ending with “I’d Rather Have Jesus.” Well- it almost ended there- Jason did delight Jentezen
Franklin with his personal request, “I Saw The Light.” The crowd left blessed!In the world of Southern Gospel Music, Jason Crabb is definitely not a little secret, but it is definitelytime to share Jason Crabb with the rest of the world! It is exciting to see his ministry grow and to watch

his music transcend genres. We’re praying for Jason’s new music to spill over into the mainstream
reaching many with good news of Jesus Christ! If there’s ever been a time the world needs to know
this message of love, it is now. The release date for LOVE IS STRONGER is March 12. Visit http://
www.jasoncrabb.com  for pre-orders and more information.Stay tuned regarding Jason’s CD Release Celebration to be aired on TBN as well as other Christian

television. Also, enjoy “Not I, But Christ In Me,” March’s cover story on Jason Crabb in SGNScoops Magazine Here

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