Hi! You might remember me from the National Quartet Convention coverage I did here last year and the year before.
I recently confirmed that I’ll be heading down to The Extra Mile a week from Saturday.
The concept intrigued me from the day the first announcement went up on the site. It wasn’t just the event—it was what it represented for our style of music. Back in the (very) old days, Southern Gospel was experienced through singing schools and church homecomings. For the last few decades, Southern Gospel has revolved around the live concert. But due to rising gas costs and a host of other problems, it’s just getting harder and harder for artists to pull off 200 concerts each year.
This event could be a model for what Southern Gospel looks like a decade from now. What especially intrigues me is that the product table is gone, and that the music is included in the cost of the event.
I’m looking forward to setting foot in Tennessee for the first time and meeting many of you. Since I write about just about everything, I imagine I’ll be writing about it, too.
If you haven’t registered yet, sign up here. It’s more than music, and even more than an event . . . if it’s a success, it could be history in the making.
See you there!
What do you mean IF it’s a success Daniel?
It’s a Talley concert! I’m sure it will be great. When we used to do church dramas we were always told “If one person get’s saved it’s worth all the effort”., which is so true. Very rarely have I ever done a drama where I have NOT been physically sick because of the hours we’ve put in the preparation and lack of rest. Ministry can be very tiresome, but when you put things in perspective it changes your entire definition of success and failure. If it makes a difference in one person’s life,it’s a definate success. I know the hearts of the people involved, so I’m sure things will work out just fine. Wish I could make it. Take care Talleys!
I have to admit you have me there! I sure shouldn’t have used “if”!
SAM i’m going to miss meeting you! but I do agree if it touches one person it is worth it all! and if that one person tells someone what happen to them and then on and then on. you can’t tell were all this could lead! and your right we know the heart of the people involved. we will miss you !
louise
Lauren, some people go to the graves with their music still inside of them. You are using the gifts that God gave you, plus creativity and imagination to present the Gospel outside of the box. We are praying for you on March 20. DREAM BIG LAUREN ! Of you find a dream inside your heart, don’t EVER let it go … for dreams can be the tiny seeds from which tomorrow’s grow !