NQC 2014 Highlights: Day 1
I am not able to attend the National Quartet Convention this year so I am watching the webcast and I’m thoroughly blessed already. I tuned in a bit late as I thought it started tomorrow but I’m glad I double checked so that I got to see most of this wonderful evening.
Steve French was not singing with the Kingdom Heirs but Andy Stringfield filled in the baritone spot while playing the piano. They included a song the Kingsmen sang years ago, “We Shall Reach Heaven Some Day.” Jerry Martin sang his signature song, “I Can Pray.”
The convention played a video of classic, funny Cathedrals moments. It made me miss them so much but I’m glad their memory lives on.
Connie Hopper recently underwent cancer surgery so she was not there this evening but Melissa Brady did an excellent job filling in for her. Claude said that Connie will arrive on Wednesday. The latest report from the pathologist says that everything looks clear. Praise the Lord for that!
I had to laugh when the Booth Brothers took the stage for the second time and Michael Booth said, “Here comes Ronnie and Quitter.” Jim Brady will be with them until December 31 when Paul Lancaster will be taking over. They were as good as they ever are: fun, entertaining, but still sharing the Gospel message. They did several songs around one mic, including their popular song, “Still Feeling Fine.” Michael talked about how Southern Gospel artists don’t throw away old songs. Then they sang, “Then I Met the Master.”
Willie Wynn made a special guest appearance this evening after being introduced by Gerald Wolfe. He didn’t sing but shared some funny stories.
Mark Trammell introduced “The King is Coming” by mentioning that, if he could sing a song, knowing that it would be the last song he would ever sing, it would be this song. I heard it anew this evening. Very powerful. Nick Trammell’s wife is expecting their second child any time so, if that call comes, he will be heading back to Alabama.
I don’t think Gerald Wolfe can get through a concert without leading the audience in singing hymns, and tonight was no exception. He did it a couple times, one of which was at the end of the night, after which he closed in prayer, asking God’s blessing on the week and mentioning that if at least one soul gets saved this week, the convention’s purpose will be accomplished.
I am looking forward to the week ahead. There will be plenty of favorites and a number of groups I’m not familiar with. I hope to note what I consider to be the highlights each evening. Please don’t critique my writing style, as I will merely be sharing snippets after my brain has more than likely shut down. There will be many more groups performing than I will mention, and better, less choppy ways to say things but you will get a feel for the event, and that is my purpose in sharing.
If you are at the convention or watching the webcast, I would love to hear what the highlights are for you each day as well.
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