Member Reviews
Susan S, Reviewer
Unfortunately, this is a pdf file and I can't get it to show up on my kindle. I have tried several times all to no avail.
My apologies.
Kyle R, Reviewer
Bill and Gloria Gaither have held a prominent spot in the annals of Gospel music since the 1960s. They have approximately 700 songs to their credit, securing them a spot among the favorites of Christian music fans worldwide. Their accolades include several Grammys, dozens of Dove Awards, and the title of ASCAP Gospel Songwriters of the Century. This is the behind the scenes look at their empire and their Homecoming gatherings.
Ryan P. Harper spent six years on this project, 2006-2012. He attended eleven Homecoming concerts in seven different states, collecting interviews from performers, crew, and fans along the way. He also visited the Gaithers at their home several times to interview them and get a sense of their personal lives. This book is not simply a treasured discussion for Gaither fans to discover facts about or relive cherished moments regarding the Homecoming gatherings. This is an in-depth exposé of the Gaither franchise, including the authenticity and genuineness of the productions and the messages portrayed through their gatherings.
The Gaither Homecoming gatherings are the most lucrative enterprise in Gospel music history. In this monumental book, Harper disects and discusses several key elements and periods of the Homecoming franchise. The first chapter focuses on the first Homecoming and the period 1991-1999. The second chapter focuses on longtime Homecoming performer Guy Penrod and how he was shaped as one of the faces of the group. Chapter three discusses the relationship and influence of politics and the Homecomings. Gloria Gaither is showcased in chapter four - her presence and influence in the franchise. Chapter five picks up where the first chapter leaves off and examines the Homecoming at the turn of the century when the enterprise begins to expand out of the south. Lastly, chapter six is devoted to Lynda Randle, the most prominent African American regular in the Homecoming circle.
The story of the first Homecoming is fascinating. Bill Gaither, sensing the end of his career, wanted to record one last iconic song and video with the Gospel greats of that time. This collaboration turned out to be much bigger than he expected, and the birth of the Homecoming franchise revived the Gaither's passion for performing Gospel music. This book tells the uncensored story of the Gaither's popularity and rise to fame. Harper includes many stories of praise from fans, but also harsh criticism that the Gaithers received from fans, evangelicals, and the music industry. They were often cited for the songs they wrote and sang, the members of the group, and their lavish performances, but through it all the Gaithers have remained at the top of the Southern Gospel scene. This book tells the untold story, and what a fascinating and entertaining one it is.
I would recommend this book to fans of the Gaithers and fans of Gospel music. I received this as a free ARC from University Press of Mississippi on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
