Penrod, Hall leave Gaither Vocal Band; Phelps, Lowry, English return
In what can safely be said to be one of Southern Gospel’s biggest stories in the last few years, Bill Gaither announced the departure of half the Gaither Vocal Band—lead singer Guy Penrod and baritone Marshall Hall—and the return of three alumni, David Phelps, Mark Lowry, and Michael English. Penrod will be pursuing a solo career that will include recording a family-friendly positive country album; Hall’s plans are unknown at this point.
Yes, the Gaither Vocal Band will now be a quintet. And knowing their penchant for complex harmonies, I doubt that they will do simple doubling of the tenor part.
* * *
And now I think I can say: I’ve actually known since October that Penrod wouldn’t be returning—but the person who told me said it on the condition that I didn’t post it. But it was just as well, since that left him room to change his mind without public reaction if he had chosen to. So that’s why I beat around the bush the way I did when answering your questions here and elsewhere. Sorry about that!
I definitely didn’t see Hall’s departure coming imminently, though.
(Oh, and when I posted this, I was hoping he had changed his mind.)
160 Responses to “Penrod, Hall leave Gaither Vocal Band; Phelps, Lowry, English return”
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I agree totally….
I agree as well ……. just imagine a 4 hour concert with only Guy!!!!!!! Oh that would be a dream come true
Maybe we should form a Guy Penrod fan club?
Rita, sounds good to me!
YES PLEASE! I would definitely be part of a Guy fan club:)
There just is no one quite like him!
great idea!
A Marsh Hall fan club would be great too. Do these guys know how much we miss them?
Unless they take their time to read these boards, probably
not!
Gaithergirl and Carolyn, I was thinking the same thing. I emailed Wes and asked him to tell Marsh and especially Guy that they were missed. I did read Emily’s blog on the Gaither web site that two of the “new members” would not be at the concert on the 12th and Marsh will be filling in. That’s good to hear. I wish she would give an update on Guy.
I sure am glad I found the website.
Sorry, I meant THIS website.
My heart aches to see Guy and Marsh go! I do know that Marsh said he liked to do worship type music. Perhaps he will do some more recording like Boundless… which I just love! I do think he was absolutely great with the GVB! An amazing singer! I too will miss the Wes and Marsh “togetherness” that they expressed so well on stage. I loved watching them perform…..their closeness was so evident (as well as Bill and Guy). I wonder how that will be with the new group? God always leads us on to bigger and better things! Just hope we hear about what God is doing with Guy and Marsh down the road!!! They will certainly be missed!
I wonder how difficult this transition is for Wes!! Must be really hard!!
I am excited and a bit sad at the same time. I have read through a lot of the comments and I agree that there was a strong bonding between Marshall and Wes, and now that will not be allowed to blossom further.
A lot has been said about Guy wanting to move in a new direction, similar to what Mark and David and Russ and others did. But no definitive rationale as to why Marshall left. Yes, I believe that old can be good … but Marshall was new and vibrant and wonderful.
Perhaps, as suggested, Bill felt he wanted to take the group in a new direction, that perhaps didn’t fit with or set well with Marshall. I believe that Bill and Marshall need to make a joint an truthful (even if difficult) statement as to the reason or reasons that Marshall is no longer a part of the GVB.
I will not go as far as some and suggest that I will no longer follow and enjoy the group, because I think that Mark and David bring their own special taent to bear. I never saw Michael English when he was part of the group, and unfortunately he will have to prove he belongs.
Bill himself is getting a bit long in the tooth, and perhaps these changes are the prelude to his own stepping away from the group. Only time will tell. We will have to wait to see how God’s hand reaches out and touches this new/old quintet.
Even though I’ll often chime in, I am generally pretty content to let conversations in this blog’s comments section run their course, so long as they are not getting too heated. But I will comment on the ongoing discussion about the recent Gaither Vocal Band lineup changes. Several readers here have posted urging Bill Gaither to make a public statement to tell the fans more about what happened.
We’ve already heard quite a bit from Bill Gaither and Marshall Hall. First Gaither did a press release and an extensive interview with Daniel Britt. More recently, we’ve had several blog posts from Emily Sutherland and a post or two from Wes Hampton. Several of these share thoughts directly from Hall.
And here’s the thing: While we might not know every detail about the change, we know all we need to know. Hall is planning to pursue a worship leader position, and Penrod is planning to pursue a solo career, and they appear to remain on good terms with Gaither. As an example, take this recent Wes Hampton blog post:
“Marsh will be filling in during the Ft. Myers concert this next weekend! Mark and David have some last schedule conflicts, so Marsh has graciously stepped in to help Bill and the GVB out. What a guy he is. So, for all those critics out there who seem to know what’s going on and say that there’s bad blood between Marsh and Bill and whomever else…there you go.”
That tells us enough to know that Hall didn’t leave on bad terms, and that’s really all we need to know. Even if Gaither did raise the idea, it could have been in the context of accelerating a move that Hall was already contemplating himself.
I haven’t closed comments on those threads yet, because I generally avoid doing that whenever possible. But seriously, folks, I don’t think we need to know more than we already do.
Just a thought here. When Mark Lowry posted on You Tube, the new song “Satisfied”, with Bill Gaither, Mark Lowry, Michael English, and Wes Hampton, maybe Mark was trying to tell us something then, about the Gaither Vocal Band changing members. I do not know, but that came to my mind, when I watched that video.
I’m not of the opinion that that’s the case. In this post, I discuss an audio commentary from Mark where he specifically says he only got the call and started thinking about it a few days before the announcement: http://www.southerngospelblog.com/archives/2322
If there is one constant in the pantheon of human existence it is change. We are most always resistant to it, yet excited after indulging in it for some time.
That being said, change is a constant in Southern Gospel Music. How many different line-ups have we seen of the Stamps, the Blackwoods, the Statesmen, the Kingsmen, the Florida Boys and yes…even my beloved Cathedral Quartet. Each change was made for a reason and each one, though leaving diasapointment at old friends leaving, brings an excitement that usually makes us cling to them even more.
The Gaither Vocal Band has went through several different incarnations of personnel over the years. Perhaps the best mix was Gaither, Penrod, Lowry, Phelps and Burger. If so, then we should be delighted to see the return of three -fifths of that line-up with the added voices of Michael English to replace Penrod and Hampton to add insurance and a variable.
The other thing that one has to consider is this. GVB has for over three years been second string in the Gaither family to the top quartet in the land, Ernie Haase and Signature Sound. So in order to re-establish GVB as at least equals of Ernie and Sig., Bill needed “star power”. That’s what he got when he brought back Phelps and Lowry.
So sit back and enjoy the new group. A least with this line-up we know what wer’re getting!
I have read every post here, and it seems that some folks are “setting a lot of store” (as old folks used to say) on people. Every member of GVB is a human with a gift. Let’s remember to keep our eyes on Jesus!!!! All of these changes will work out for good.
I had a brief moment to greet Marshall here in Dallas at a Homecoming Friends concert. I have seldom come so close to feeling like I was peering into the face of Jesus as when Marshall looked at me. I’d love to find out where he leads worship. I would travel to his city for that experience. If anyone knows, please send details. Thanks.
For all the Guy Penrod fans, on the new Gaither.com website there is a fan club of sorts for various artists. There is one for Guy with quite a few comments from his fans. Some really nice posts are on there. I hope Guy reads them.
Wow.. never realized so many others felt the same as I do.. much as I love Michael, David, Mark and Wes.. to me the heart of the GVB has become Marshall and Guy. As it has been said, there are parts to this that only the group members know, but it is hard to accept that Marshall would leave voluntarily of his own accord, I saw such a joy in him to be on stage there.. that had nothing to do with money and everything to do with a love for the Lord and for people. And as others have said how many times the day was just a little too long..but just a few minutes sitting down listening and watching Guy’s all-out heartfelt joyful worship .. that feeling that he 100% truly believed in the goodness of God and that everything was going to be alright– how in Heaven’s name will they replace that?? I know that I have no heart to even try to do so. I have a strong feeling I will be buying Guy and Marshall’s projects in future. God bless u all..
Daniel, may I ask some questions and make some comments?
Recently, someone asked why in the current issue of Homecoming magazine, Guy’s departure was handled with ONE
line! After fourteen years of carrying the GVB, wouldn’t you think he would rate alittle more than that! Wow! People who work just a few years often rate much more respect than that when they leave the workplace! Makes one wonder, did he really resign from Vocal Band, or was he asked to leave?
This whole issue is not going away. If you visit the Gaither forums almost every other post is entitled Guy Penrod. There is an enormous amount of people still upset over this issue.
Then there is this question, is Guy at some point truly going solo, or is this situation like the Candy Christmas, Denise Hopper thing, where they disappear from the gosple music scene, and not heard from again… . Will we hear from Guy again?
I am not trying to stir up any kind of trouble, I just want to understand what has/is happening. One line from Gaither just doesn’t do it!
All I know is that GVB wont be the same without Guy Penrod !!!!!and I dont think it will be the same. I’Ll miss him .
Amen to that Gaithergirl.
[...] I posted that Guy Penrod was leaving the Gaither Vocal Band, you asked if it was April 1. Today it really is April [...]
I,ve just learned of the changes to gvb and am surprised. We have to remember that this group has changed many times and for the best, the old 3 members coming back is like going home. We will enjoy them and who knows Guy and Wes could be back.The story is about singers singing Gospel music.Over the years most group change singers, Oak Ridge Boys,Imperials, the list never end. but the end of the Story is to Sing to The LORD! we WILL BE BLESSED BY THE MUSIC
I,ve just learned of the changes to gvb and am surprised. We have to remember that this group has changed many times and for the best, the old 3 members coming back is like going home. We will enjoy them and who knows Guy and Marshall could be back.The story is about singers singing Gospel music.Over the years most group change singers, Oak Ridge Boys,Imperials, the list never end. but the end of the Story is to Sing to The LORD! we WILL BE BLESSED BY THE MUSIC
Marshall halls singing Jesus loves me took me back some 80 yrs. This I recall as a child…In him I see a man of God and I truly feel that Jesus is his direction…Please let him know his
singing is not a 10 but an 11…I am 85 yrs.old and southern gospel has and always will be in my heart…God bless him and his family…With Christian love,I am…Joe sahadi
I am a spinal cord injury patient. I have been bedfast for 11 years. In my human mind – I get just a little cranky when watch “Give it Away”. They put out a pointed message that they were having the singing time of their lives.
I wonder if these professionals know how much some of us out in the world identify with the joking, friendship, mischief, etc. that these men can truly enjoy.
Please no one criticize me. This is the first message like this I have ever typed out.
I hope that Mr. and Mrs. Gaither can quickly put out a DVD with the new singers so that “house potatoes” can start to identify and enjoy what the GVB now is.
Please pray for me. I am having difficulty staying in bed all the time.
Thanks for all the input everyone has made on this topic. Conspiracy? Maybe it is simply God doing His job, not waiting for our human directions. His will, not mine, be done.
I hate to see Guy and Marshall leaving GVB. They have added so much to it over the time I have been a fan!
I hope that Marshall will stay in Gospel Music whether solo or with someone else. I love his voice, his heart when singing, and his writing talent!
I am sorry to hear that Guy is going to go over to secular music whether “family friendly” or otherwise. There are too few really dedicated Gospel singers today and I refuse to listen to “gospel” by someone who is in the secular world. He will be missed by many I am sure.
However, I do love to see that David and Mark are back with the group. I don’t care much for Michael English (just a style preferrence, nothing personal). But, I am sure they will have a great sound. Just not nearly as good as with Guy and Marshall aboard.
Isn’t that sort of like saying that if you’re a Christian, you must have a job in a Christian industtry? Guy Penrod can sing any gnere he wants to sing. And who knows, maybe he can influence some of the other folks in country music. And I’m pretty sure Guy Penrod WON’T be singing beer-drinkin’ & cheatin’ songs! I rarely listen to anything other than SG or Christian music, but I believe there are some in the Country music world who obviously keep their songs family-friendly – such as the most recent Tim McGraw and Faith Hill music, since they became parents. Sugarland is another Country group (duo) who sing family-friendly; Carrie Underwood, Brad Paisley, and others.
Well put Peggy!
If Guy’s solo CD ‘BREATHE DEEP’ isn’t Christian, then I don’t know what is
Jan, Guy has not given up gospel music. He has a gospel concert in Branson, Mo. on August 30th.
I am so unhappy with Guy and Marsh leaving. Marsh was the biggest thing that happened to the GVD. If I didn’t have the tickets purchased for Mpls Mn, I would not go. I will go, but I will miss Marsh, he will be so missed. Not a word of why he went, you gave us the impression that he just simply left without Bill even giving an explanation. It will not the same without Guy and Marsh. Probably be my last concert and member. However, that all said, David Phelps is and always be awesome. Mark is usually over the top and I don’t espically think he’s funny. Marsh, wherever you are.. you were my favorite!!!
I agree with you about my last concert. I am going to Minneapolis to visit my son and bought tickets on presale before Guy’s departure was announced. I’ll go, but it won’t be the same. I agree about Mark also. I’m not a David Phelps fan but as long as Wes is there it will be ok. I miss the lineup of Guy, Marsh and Wes.
Being home bound I have much time for s/g music and sound
and heard it many times performed as most of my family is from
S.C. Hearing Marshall Hall singing Jesus loves me ,in my opinion,
put him at the top…Bravo again and stay in the path you have taken…In my 85 yrs. listening to s/g I must say you have a very
bright future…God bless you and yours…Joe sahadi
I LOVED THE SOUND OF THE GVB WITH GUY, MARSH, BILL, AND WES – IT WAS ABSOLUTELY PERFECT! I WILL MISS GUY AND MARSH SO MUCH. I WILL BE PRAYING FOR THEM AND THEIR FAMILIES, AND…WILL LOOK FORWARD TO FOLLOWING THEM CLOSELY IN THE FUTURE
Laurie, check out http://www.guypenrod.com to order Guy’s first solo CD.
I truly believe that Marsh leaving was because he feels led more toward worship music rather than just christian entertainment. I realize christian entertainment is awesome and I love it as well, however worship brings a totally different perspective when it is the passion that drives you. “HE inhabits the praises of his people.” I could always see a different passion as Marsh sang some of his most touching songs. Very sincere, very personal…….
AMEN!!
Would someone please let me know why Marshall Hall was asked to leave the Gaither Vocal Band. The article above on this page is clear what Guy Penrod was going to do; however, only one small “blurb” that Marshall’s plans are unknown. I totally enjoyed and was blessed by his singing and am curious as to what he is going to be doing. Thank you.
Carl—It is not known why he left. Sorry!
He is now a worship leader—for a church in Arizona, if I’m recalling correctly.
Being a fan of the GVB, all the changes brought great sounds. I missed David and Mark when they left. Now their back along with Michael. What a sound that will be. I can’t get enough of listening to Michael. Now he’s back with the GVB. Thank you Jesus. I love Guy also and was sad to see him go. God has plans for all of us. If it’s Gods will for Guy to return, he will. Michael is living proof of an almighty God. I thank God for the GVB; the homecomings, reunions and the spiritual uplift.
Still miss the old gvb…Guy Penrod and Marshall Hall and Wes in my
opinion performed gospil music in a rating of 10 plus…Marshall have a happy birthday and with Christ your path much success in your future…Joe Sahadi
Amen Joseph – I’ve been watching GIVE IT AWAY DVD. No one can top the Guy-Marsh-Wes combination. One senses a deep friendship and ‘connection’ between those 3. It cannot get any better. Thankfully we have all 14 years of Guy on DVD. And Guy’s new career is going to SOAR – he has an ARMY of prayer warriors praying for him.
[...] Gaither Vocal Band unveils new lineup: Penrod, Hall leave Gaither Vocal Band; Phelps, Lowry, English…. If the announcements had been spread over weeks, it would have been one thing. But to have this story hit all at once left no doubt that this belongs at the #1 spot. [...]
Just an update on Marshall Hall and where his ministry has led him. See > http://www.southerngospelblog.com/archives/2639
Marshall Hall Fans is on Facebook > http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=93649963808
I AM VERY SAD TO SEE THAT GUY AND MARSH HAS LEFT THE VOCAL BAND. I WILL MISS THEM GREATLY. THEY BOUGHT SOMETHING SPEACIAL TO THE GROUP. SINGING WITH BILL AND WES WAS SOMETHING WONDERFUL TO WATCH. THEIR VOICES BLENDED NICELY.THEY SEEMED VERY CLOSE ON STAGE AND OFF. [EDIT] I LOVE THE GAITHER HOMECOMING AND ALL THOSE BEAUTIFUL SONGS THAT GLORIA AND BILL HAD WRITTEN,BUT I DON’T UNDERSTAND ALL THIS LEAVING AND RETURNING.JUST LIKE SIGNATURE SOUND WITH RYAN SEATON LEAVING AND DEVIN JOINING THE GROUP.I JUST HOPE THAT ALL THESE CHANGES ARE ON THE UP AND UP BECAUSE I HAVE BEEN BLESSED BY THESE GROUPS.MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS GLORIA AND BILL FOR ALL THEY HAVE DONE.
i wish guy would come back to the gaither vocal band. i think he has
a beatuiful voice and i think he made that group what is is today?
never be another group like guy,marsh and wes.guy sings better than michael marsh sings better than mark.david may sing higher than wes but wes is good also and he is,the real deal