Singing Echoes schedule anniversary singing

The Singing Echoes, a third-generation family gospel group from Cleveland, Tenn., will host their Blue Springs Valley 41st anniversary singing over four days starting Wednesday.

IF YOU GO * What: Singing Echoes' 41st anniversary singing. * When: 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 6:45 p.m. July 15, 5 p.m. July 16. * Where: Blue Springs Valley Park, 150 Bryson Lane, Cleveland, Tenn. * Admission: $13 single day, $44 four-day passes (group discounts available). * Phone: 423-472-2421. * Website: www.singing echoes.com.

The group originated in 1969 with Max and Lela Epperson, their two sons, Lynn and Gary, and Gary's wife, Debbie. The group was nominated for a Grammy Award in 1973 for the song "When I Wake Up To Sleep No More," which became a standard in Southern gospel music.

Other hits by the group include "Empty Hands" and "Somebody's Here." Over his career, Gary Epperson wrote several Top 40 songs, including "It's Enough," which climbed to No. 2 on the Singing News charts. The group's song "Two Coats" was used in the movie "The Apostle."

In 1989, Gary and Debbie's son Joshua, who had traveled with the group since he was 2 weeks old, joined the family onstage to sing tenor at age 8. In 1990, Lynn's oldest son, Jeremy, joined the group full-time to play drums at age 14. Max and Lela retired in 1995. Shortly after their retirement, Lynn's other two sons, Adam and Matt, joined the group full-time.

The anniversary singing will feature morning devotions by guest preachers and evening performances by numerous guest artists.

Tickets may be purchased in advance and picked up at the gate (show a receipt printout or photo ID).

The concerts will take place beneath a shelter and will be held rain or shine. Concertgoers may bring their own lawn chairs or rent folding chairs for $1 each. Concessions will be available. Camping spots are available for $15 a day.

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