Guy Penrod takes hiatus from GVB
Gaither.com posted a press release announcing that Guy Penrod is taking a multi-week sabbatical from the Gaither Vocal Band. His part will be filled by David Phelps, Mark Lowry, and Jason Crabb.
This story suggests many possible responses, but so far, from what I’ve seen, two are predominant in online discussion so far:
(1) What will Jason Crabb sound like in a male quartet setting?
(2) Penrod’s wide fanbase—along with everyone who likes to see continuity and personnel stability in Southern Gospel’s forefront groups—hopes that this is just a few weeks, and not due to any vocal troubles or other reasons that might make it extend longer.
My favorite SoGo singers of all time would be Tenor – David Phelps...
Unfortunately, the job I have...
Comment by Andrew (October 10, 2008, 9:19 am)
I attended a Gaither Concert in Columbus,GA last night. Lowry was fulling in. He actually sang the baritone part and Marshall jumped to lead. In fact, Gordon Mote sang some of Guy’s lead parts on a few of their newer songs. The concert was very good, however, you could tell that something was missing. To top it off, Wes appeared to have a cold or something. I think he sang one verse to one song and I thought he pulled back a little bit. Again, he sounded good… you could just tell that he was having problems. Marshall ended up taking the lead on one of the verses that I imagine Wes would have usually sung. Again, great concert… no complaints, at all. It was the quality we are used to hearing from Gaither. Gaither did said that Guy was taking a few months off.
Comment by DJPhil (October 10, 2008, 9:54 am)
Interesting, if Andrew heard correctly, then it has gone from a few weeks to a few months…Guy is going to be greatly missed. Without Phelps, Guy was “da man” with the Gaither Vocal Band. All the others are just really good singers, nothing really special like Phelps and Penrod. (Just one mans opinion, of course…)
Comment by Daniel J. Mount (October 10, 2008, 9:56 am)
I see over on the SN forums that someone else thought they heard Gaither say 3 months.
Comment by Larry Bishop (November 14, 2008, 3:16 pm)
My wife and I are very disappointed that Guy is not
with GVB right now. We have been very blessed by his
music, and are praying that God will give him what he needs
during this time.
Pingback by SouthernGospelBlog.com » 2008 in Review: News Stories (January 1, 2009, 9:05 am)
[...] Guy Penrod takes sabbatical from Gaither Vocal Band. This would be higher on the list if it was known that Penrod isn’t returning. But if he’s just taking time off, momentous as it indeed is for three months, it’s more a blip in the GVB history. [...]
Comment by Charlotte (January 8, 2009, 9:53 pm)
Is Guy still on a sabbatical? I see Mark Lowry is scheduled to be with the Homecoming group for the next few months, but David Phelp’s schedule isn’t posted.
Comment by Daniel J. Mount (January 8, 2009, 10:00 pm)
Don’t know. Good question.
Comment by Jess (January 13, 2009, 11:33 pm)
Looks like Guy is out. According to David Phelp’s website, the new GVB members are: David Phelps, Bill Gaither, Wes Hampton, Michael English and Mark Lowry.
It was great having Guy sing with them for so long on so many great songs. He’ll be missed.
Comment by Mary (January 14, 2009, 2:15 am)
Desperately ’searching’ to see what’s going on with Guy and just found this on another website:
Daniel Mount has the scoop. Guy Penrod is leaving the Gaither Vocal Band to record a solo Country project. Speculation regarding Penrod’s departure have been kicked around since he took a hiatus from the GVB in October.
Comment by Kathie (January 18, 2009, 4:34 pm)
My husband and i were disappointed that Guy Penrod woud leave his gospel music following to record a country CD. I know there is some good country music but not the majority. He has such a presence and a seemingly great devotion to singing for the Lord, what a terrible talent to waste on “somebody did somebody wrong songs”! Guy, We hope this is what you think God has told you to do, if so, God bless!!!!
Comment by Brenda Hamilton (January 18, 2009, 7:14 pm)
I read on Bll Gaither’s website that Guy is leaving permanently. My heart is broken. He is such an inspiring person and he adds so much to GVB. I also read that Marshall Hall is leaving. In my opinion, this was the best group of singers that GVB has ever had. The chemistry was so great and you could tell that these guys loved each other and were enjoying singing together. I will truly miss Guy and Marshall.
Comment by Daniel J. Mount (January 18, 2009, 7:42 pm)
I think family friendly specifically means non-”somebody did something wrong” songs. Plus, for all we know, he may still be doing some or even largely Gospel.
Comment by donna speer-bast (January 22, 2009, 4:44 pm)
Guy – you will be missed – the interaction with the group is so special – it will be hard not seeing you with Gaither Music – hopefully just for awhile.
Comment by Lynne (January 22, 2009, 6:58 pm)
I would like to thank Guy’s family for sharing him with us for so many years. All of us have been blessed by their sacrifice. When Guy was on the road, I’m sure his wife had quite a load to carry. I admire Guy and his wife for making this difficult decision. I also want to applaud them for putting family first. You can never get back your children’s childhood. There’s just a small window when they are in your home and growing up. God isn’t finished with Guy Penrod. I look forward to what is ahead for his whole family. Who knows? Maybe they will buy a bus and have their own music ministry.
Father’s best to the Penrod family….
Comment by Ohiosami (January 24, 2009, 5:18 pm)
I’ve read on a few different sites that Marshall Hall didn’t want to leave, it was Bill’s idea to revamp ansd Marshall was let go! Is this true?
Comment by Ohiosami (January 24, 2009, 5:22 pm)
I can’t believe that Guy is not going to be singing gospel! I am hoping that maybe this is just a one time country cd. I’ve followed Guy since day one with the GVB and he has grown so much! I hope he uses his voice for the one that gave it to him! I know in his “Best of Guy Penrod” DVD, he talks about how much he loves country…….but I would hope and pray that he stays with God’s songs.
Comment by Daniel J. Mount (January 24, 2009, 5:48 pm)
On Marsh, nobody who knows is talking. A lot of people assume that he was fired, but it is just an assumption and it wouldn’t be the first time a lot of people have been wrong.
The only person who might know is someone who posted on another site and apparently works in radio promotion for the group’s singles – he said Marsh told Gaither he wanted to leave to focus more efforts on songwriting and producing.
Comment by Lisa Buell (January 31, 2009, 5:55 pm)
I am still in a deep dark sad place regarding the changes to the Vocal Band. The thought of Guy not being a part of it takes the heart right out of my decade long love affair with them. There are no adequate words to describe my sense of loss, and grief in already missing Guy Penrod. And even if I could accept Guy leaving (and I can’t!), what is with ousting Marshall Hall??? Next to Guy, he was the guy! I did love David and Mark when they were with the band, and it will be great to see more of them, but honestly, I can’t get excited about the new group, especially without Guy. All the thanks in the world to him for the blessing he has been in my life, and I pray all of Heaven’s best on him and his family in the future, and for Marshall, too! Sometimes the best things come out of change… or so I keep telling myself! Do keep us posted on whatever is known about Guy & Marshall~ thanks!
Comment by Susan (February 1, 2009, 11:57 am)
I agree totally with Lisa Buell above. Good luck to Guy and Marshall – we’ll miss you terribly.
Comment by Ohiosami (February 3, 2009, 11:57 am)
I am saddened by Guy leaving, he us by far the best vocalist ever! I do love hearing Dave Phelps too!! I think the best sound ever was Guy, Mark, Dave and Bill. Marshall Hall is a great vocalist, and when he joined I think aside from the comedy, they chose wisely after Russ left. I hope that God blesses all of them. I hope we hear from Guy soon as to what his plans are as to what music he will be singing, I only pray rthat it will stay God’s work. Good luck to all of them!
Comment by Ohiosami (February 3, 2009, 11:59 am)
I’m just going to say God Bless to all of them! As long as they stay in God’s will, he will provide.
Comment by Char (February 7, 2009, 4:44 pm)
I echo the remarks above — the GVB just won’t be the same without Guy. I am sure the sacrifices he and his family made were overwhelming. And I applaude him for making the change if it is for his family life. But, he will certainly be missed. I was at a concert in San Jose, CA with my friend who had just been through cancer surgery. Guy took the time to talk with us and encourage her and pray, and then he let me take his picture with her. What a gracious man of God! May the Lord bless you, Guy and Angie!
Comment by Sharon (February 10, 2009, 6:26 pm)
I agree with everyone’s comments as to how much Guy will be missed. His heart, his smile, and his dedication to the Savior were always evident in his annointed singing and in his interaction with those attended the concerts. May God continue to bless you and your precious family, Guy! You’re the best!
Comment by Diane (February 23, 2009, 4:45 pm)
The GVB will not be the same without Guy Penrod. I love his singing with the band. His love of family is so inspirational. I wish him only the best with his life. God be with him.
Comment by Nancy (February 25, 2009, 4:16 pm)
Has anyone heard anything about what Guy Penrod is actually doing.
Is there a website for him? I have tickets for one of the April Gaither concerts, and I am going to miss him not being there. He is the main reason I bought them. I love all the music, but Guy always seemed so in tune with God and everyone around him.
Comment by Sandy (February 26, 2009, 12:46 am)
I hope and pray that Guy will ALWAYS continue to put GOD first…He is one of the most talented singers I have ever heard. But with a wife and 8 kids I’m sure he needed some long overdue family time. Can’t blame him for that! But, he will certainly be missed..Mark, David,and Mike all have had time away from the GVB, but they are back and sounding as good as ever…God’s blessing for Guy,his wife and kids! Who knows, we heard his kids sing on The Best of Guy Penrod…maybe there’s a chance on a new group! Anyway…God’s Blessing on his entire family and the future…..
Comment by Patricia Proctor (February 26, 2009, 7:53 pm)
I have really hoped the rumors I had heard since about October, 2008 about Guy taking a sabbatical were just that, and the he would be coming back to the GVB. I have loved his singing, his smile, his wonderful love of the Lord that just radiated from him when he sang for 14 years. He has always been one of my favorite singers and I watched for him every week as I watched The Gaither Hour on tv on Saturday night. I have VHFs, DVDs and CDs of the many Homecomings and the ones featuring Guy. I will truly miss him. I feel he is such a person that he will only go where the Lord leads him. God bless him in the time ahead. He will be missed!!!
Comment by Joann Kehoe (March 1, 2009, 1:39 pm)
I’m So sorry to hear Guy is leaving the Vocal Band. He was t TRUE blessing. God bless him in his next venture. HE WILL BE MISSED!!!!! Sincerly Joann
Comment by Renee Lauffer (March 2, 2009, 7:13 pm)
I am 72 years old and I just recently discovered Guy Penrod on Bill Gaither’s Reunion programs. His singing moved me so greatly, he could pull me right up to my feet, praising God. If I had have been there I might have stormed the stage. I am so devastated that he is no longer with Bill Gaither. I don’t want to lose track of him – I already purchased his video/cd. I will be a fan of his for the rest of my life.
Comment by Rev. Janet Rounsley (March 3, 2009, 7:14 pm)
When I opened the Homecoming Magazine today I was facing the departure of Guy Penrod. To me he is truly a man of God. I have been so moved by his ministry and his gift of song with the Vocal Band. I’m afraid the group will not be the same without Guy. Blessings on Guy, Angie and the entire family. Rev. Janet
Comment by Rev. Janet Rounsley (March 3, 2009, 7:16 pm)
The news that Guy has left the Gaither Vocal Band has brought such saddness to me. Guy has ministered to me in so many ways at times when I needed to sense again the presence of the Lord. God’s blessings on Guy, Angie and the family. The Band won’t be the same. Rev. Janet
Comment by Stuart Collins (March 15, 2009, 8:45 am)
Have you seen the latest issue of Homecoming Mag? Bill Gaither issued a one sentence statement re Guy leaving. You would think that 14 years of carrying the Vocal Band would deserve more. I am wondering if the Reunion had anything to do with Guy and Marshall leaving. You know Bill might have deceided to bring back Mark, Michael and David and have an eightsome that Guy and Marshall objected to. I just do not understand the lack of comments from Bill and Gloria Gaither.
Comment by Bill (March 22, 2009, 2:44 am)
Maybe Bill is not free to talk about what all has went on behind the seans! Maybe it would do more harm than good for everyone to know the whole story! But don’t worry about guy leaving im sure he will be back with gaither within a few short years. Cause that’s how the gvb roll’s now day’s lol God Bless!!!
Comment by Letha (March 26, 2009, 2:24 pm)
I would just as soon not even go to a concert for Gaithers if there’s no Guy Penrod there. He seemed the most sincere in his singing, and his voice was incredible. Cannot find a website for him.
Comment by Jo (April 1, 2009, 9:11 am)
This morning was the first I heard of Guy leaving. He was my favorite part of GVB. What a voice! I wish him well in a solo career but would love to see him back with GVB eventually.
Comment by Faye (April 2, 2009, 3:43 pm)
We saw the Gaither’s perform in Evansville,Indiana several times, and gosh, Guy, you will greatly missed by all who enjoyed your singing and that smile.
Please, think about coming back to the GVB before too long, we will be praying for your return.
God Love You,
Faye and family
Comment by Richard (April 4, 2009, 10:41 pm)
It is sad about Marshall Hall and Guy Penrod leaving the GVB.
It seems that every thing in the world today has a big business ring to it. Including the Gaither Organization.
I am glad that Wes Hampton is still there. He still lends young blood to the band. David Phelps will continue to Wow everyone with his music. BUT. In this day and age when Young people are hard to get involved in Christian activities, I do not think that a good DCN was made to let Marhshall and Guy Leave. My prayers go with them. I will miss the Holland America Alaska trip……..and go in september when the cost will be less. I will hear the quintet another time.
Comment by Jackie Baraniak (April 14, 2009, 2:18 pm)
Guy Penrod is a GREAT singer, But in my opinion he can’t compare to David Phelps. Instead of condemning the Gaithers for not giving Guy’s leaving much hype, we must give the Gaithers thanks for allowing us the priviledge of hearing his voice all these years. Country singers are a dime a dozen, but REALLY good gospel singers are hard to find! I look forward to having David, Mark, and Michael return.
Comment by Jay Freemont (April 21, 2009, 8:29 pm)
He’ll be back in September.
Comment by Shirley Godwin (April 23, 2009, 10:39 am)
I totally agree with Jackie Baraniak’s post on april 14th and kudos to Gaither for bringing back David, Mark, and Michael!! My family has always loved the GVB including Guy and he will be sorely missed. Hopefully, he’ll return eventually. But we are eagerly waiting for the 2009 GVB. And I’ll be one of the first to purchase their first cd!! Bill has always and continues to have the magic touch with gospel music. God bless them all.
Comment by Sandy M (April 29, 2009, 11:47 am)
I was saddened to hear that Guy and Marsh are no longer with the Gaither Vocal Band. I love them all.
I will miss Guy so much, his voice is so strong and the spirit of God just flows through his music and his expressions.
I am very happy to see Mark, Michael and David back BUT it would be great to have had them all stay.
I love Michael’s singing. I have read his book a couple of times and know of the problems that he has had and I praise God that he has come home where God wants him.
He is a blessing to those of us who love good gospel music and espcially coming out of someone with such a great voice.
Michael can really sing those songs and especially of freedom from the past and of God’s love since he has and is living with it. He knows first hand all about the love and forgiveness of the Father.
We all know but some more than others, it seems like he has really been to the bottom and praise God he looked up and asked for help and forgiveness.
I love Mark, he is a hoot and of course David has an awesome voice BUT I do have to say that I will miss Guy and it is an ultimate loss to the vocal band and also to we the fans.
Guy is wonderful and I pray that he will eventually come back to us and not in country. I’m sure he would do good in that and he loves it BUT we his fans love his worshipping God music.
I enjoyed Marshall’s music and on the Vocal Bands Reunions with most of the prior members of the vocal band I loved Marsh singing “When I Cry.” Wow that is such a beautiful song and he did a great job on it.
May God bless and keep them all and may He bless us in the future by giving them back to us.
Comment by Mary Ann King (April 30, 2009, 1:15 pm)
I too was saddened to hear of Guy leaving the GVB, however I truly believe that if God is calling him to this arena of music, then that is where Guy needs to be. Although I don’t listen to a lot of country music, several family members do, and there have been many times that the lyrics of certain songs have touched them deeply and have helped them make better choices in life as well as even possibly a deeper walk with the Lord. I believe we as brothers and sisters in Christ need to keep Guy in our prayers. We know that Satan would love nothing better than to damage the testimony of a believer, and we need to pray that Guy will always keep God front and center, and that he willl be sensitive to God’s leading wherever that will be. (Incidently, we should be praying for all of God’s ambassadors out there in whatever capacity they are in.)
Comment by gaithergirl (April 30, 2009, 5:01 pm)
# 39 He, meaning Guy? How do you he will be back in
September?
Comment by gaithergirl (April 30, 2009, 6:35 pm)
Let me try this again. # 39 Were you referring to Guy coming back in September? If so, how do you know this? Would appreciate the info.
Comment by Merlin Seske (May 4, 2009, 5:05 pm)
I continue to pray for the Penrod family and there is no words to express my love for this Godly family and aI continue to pray God will keep a hedge of protection around this family moment by moment I pray I get to meet them again before I go home. God is so good Thank you Guy and Angela forbeing who you are and Bless you always.
Comment by Glenden,Thompson (May 28, 2009, 9:31 pm)
I was so socked that Guy Penrod leave the GVB and is replced by Michel English,always prayed and wish that he’ll be back and continiually share God’s love through music,
may God Bless in his service through the Music Ministry of the Gaither vocal band!!
Comment by nelda (May 29, 2009, 9:38 pm)
I have always liked the gvb but the gvb loss will be countrys gain also country got it start in Gospel so may they need Guys light to shine there
Comment by Ginney Camden (June 4, 2009, 4:15 pm)
We just saw the GVB last week and they were awesome. I was almost dreading it because of the absence of Guy. But the concert was fantastic. Phelps, Lowry and English were all just wonderful. And of course Wes added his wonderful voice to the mix. I hope God blesses all of them and that Guy continues to keep God first.