Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Happy Birthday, Dad

The single biggest influence on my passion for southern gospel music is my dad, James. Growing up, Dad had a stack of gospel records that he would play at home. He would copy them to cassette to listen to in the car, as well, which meant that many road trips were spent listening to Dale Shelnut belting out "In The Prayer Room" or Archie Watkins singing, "When I wake uuuuuuuuup.....to sleep no more."

Over the years, what began as something to listen to on long rides became more of an interest, then a passion, and the entire time, Dad was there to encourage me. Whether it be teaching me parts, giving suggestions on recordings, or driving me to gigs, he's always been a helping hand. He's never had any real experience in gospel music himself (save for a church group he sang and played with); but he does what he can to help me along.

Today, January 28th, marks his 66th birthday. I just want to take a minute to wish him a Happy Birthday and thank him for all of his support.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAD!!!

1 comments:

quartet-man said...

Happy Birthday, "Kyle's dad." You have a good son and I am sure you had a lot to do with that.

Kyle, I never knew that your dad was involved in music. It is cool to hear how it came to be. My dad never sang (and really couldn't.) I understand that he had played a stand up bass for a group a long time ago. His brother and sisters used to sing as well as his dad who also played harmonica. However, he and mom played SOME Southern gospel (a few lps and cassettes) and I got into music at church and school.
My dad passed away when I was 19. He was 56.

Anyhow, this was about your dad. I am glad he is in better health and you still have him. Cherish those times. Wishing you and him great times.