Bill Gaither Pays Video Tribute to the Seventy Year Music Ministry of George Beverly Shea
by Staff
June 26, 2008
Nashville, TN, (christiansunite.com) - During the past 65 years, as a member of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, George Beverly Shea has carried the gospel in song to every state and every continent, singing before an estimated 220 million people during his lifetime. Now Bill Gaither salutes the musical legacy of his long-time friend with the release of Then Sings My Soul, a video tribute that includes vintage performance footage of the beloved singer combined with a lifetime of remembrances from the Gospel Music Hall of Fame member.Bill Gaither celebrated Bev Shea's 98th birthday with "Billy Graham's favorite singer" at the charming Grove Park Inn and enjoyed the privilege of sitting down with him to reflect on his life and music. Shea's infectious humor and commanding presence shine throughout the lively discussion, which includes insights into the inspiration behind his most beloved songwriting accomplishments, "I'd Rather Have Jesus" and "The Wonder of It All." Vintage performance footage from the past 60 years, including classics such as "Every Time I Feel the Spirit," "I Will Sing the Wondrous Story," "Amazing Grace," "The Old Rugged Cross," "The Ivory Palaces," "We Are Climbing Jacob's Ladder," and "Jesus Whispers Peace," showcases Shea singing at Billy Graham Crusades throughout the world. He explains to Gaither how he came to adopt "How Great Thou Art" as his signature song after being handed the song in London in 1957 and singing it every night for 16 straight weeks at Madison Square Garden later that year.
Among the many high points of this musical tribute is a medley that Shea and Gaither perform together while reminiscing at the piano. The twosome also pays tribute to the songs of renowned composer, Stuart Hamblin, who was converted at the renowned Graham Los Angeles Crusade.'€
"George Beverly Shea's deep, resonant voice has sung hope into the lives of hundreds of millions of people throughout his long and legendary career," Bill Gaither says. "The integrity and humility that have long characterized this man of God have given a unique credibility to all he stands for. That kind of legacy is nothing short of extraordinary. He's a rare gem; a true servant of the gospel."
A one-hour special of Then Sings My Soul will air on more than 15 television networks nationwide the weekend of June 20-22, including GAC, RFD-TV, Gospel Music Channel, TBN and others. Check local listings for dates and times.
Then Sings My Soul is available on DVD June 24th at retail outlets nationwide or by logging onto www.gaither.com.
