artists

Kingsmen

If there's one group whose name inspires thoughts of pure, passionate, solid and true music, it's The Kingsmen. They've encouraged and uplifted listeners with their unique style since the conception of the group in 1956. With countless records and compilations sold, Grammy nominations, four Dove Awards and an induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame-class of 2000, this certainly solidifies The Kingsmen as gospel musics most predominate Quartet. The momentum has not stopped as the group helps define the southern gospel genre for a whole new generation of music lovers, perhaps more so than any other group.

"The key is to never lose site of what we are working towards" says Ray Reese, Kingsmen manager and bass singer."We tour year in and year out to spread our music to people across the country. Our music has a message, the message of Christ. Every night we work to bring His message to our audience. Our goal is to see people saved through Jesus Christ whether it is indoors, outdoors, in an auditorium, church, on cd or video ".

There aren't too many groups today who can boast the kind of far-reaching legacy that comes with a 50-year career as one of gospel music's most influential artists. The Kingsmen emerged in the 1950's with their own distinct style, unleashing music that would solidify them as pioneers in the southern gospel music field. They continue to carry the legacy on today.

A Crossroads Family Christmas

Just added to the store… Crossroads Family Christmas Volumes 1 & 2 available ONLY for digital download. These are Christmas favorites taken from several artist Christmas projects and radio singles and put into 2 volumes. Also featured is a great new version of Jingle Bells done by the Crist Family. Also featuring the Talley Trio, Phil Cross, Mark Bishop, The Kingdom Heirs, Ivan Parker, The Kingsmen, Janet Paschal, Jeff Collins and more. Download these 2 collections in time for the holidays. To see all of our Christmas releases click here

David Johnson in the Hall of Fame

David Johnson in the Hall of FamePopular gospel music studio musician David Johnson was recently inducted into the Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame in Wilkesboro, NC. Johnson has appeared over the years on many, if not most, of yesterday’s and today’s top gospel artists recordings, a list much too long to list. His incredible musicianship through acoustic and electric guitar, fiddle, steel guitar, harmonica, banjo, resonator guitar and mandolin has been appreciated and enjoyed by scores of listeners. David is also an accomplished songwriter, with artists such as the McKameys, the Kingsmen and the Isaacs recording his songs.

Tim Surrett presented the award at the event, stating famed bluegrass guitarist Tony Rice’s comment that David Johnson was “possibly the best musician he had ever known.”

Other inductees included Dolly Parton, Earl Scruggs, Doc Watson and six others.

David is also a former two-time recipient of the SGMA studio musician award.

Crossroads is very proud of this honor for David, one long overdue in our opinion!

The Kingsmen Tradition Taken to a New Level

Arden, NC - The Kingsmen bring an exciting new release to Southern Gospel May 20th on Horizon Records. Produced by Jeff Collins, the release, “When God Ran”, promises to be an exciting new step for the Kingsmen. The album offers 10 stellar tracks and includes the talents of such notable writers as Rebecca Peck, Chris Binion, Jerry Salley, Sandy Knight and others. Track highlights include “Gospel Road”, “The Cloud He’s Coming Back On”, and the title track “When God Ran”.

“Mickey Gamble, I and our team at Crossroads wanted to create a new direction for the Kingsmen (while remaining true to the Kingsmen tradition) that could appeal to a wide audience. With the talents of Ray Reece, Brandon Reece, Bryan Hutson, Phillip Hughes, and Harold Reed along with fantastic songs from gifted song writers, the end result is one I’m certainly proud of. I think this recording is one of their very best and I hope it’s a tremendous blessing to all who hear it!, states Producer Jeff Collins.

New to the Kingsmen vocal line-up with this release is new tenor Harold Reed formally of the Florida Boys and returning to the quartet is baritone singer Bryan Hutson.
Although the physical CD will be available in stores after May 20th, the project is available now for digital download at www.crossroadsmusic.com. Be sure to listen for the new single When God Ran on your favorite Gospel radio station.