The Singing Echoes have been warming up since Wednesday for the weekend culmination of their Blue Springs Valley Singing, celebrating their 40th anniversary.
Already this week the Cleveland, Tenn.-based family gospel group has hosted six gospel acts for concerts at Blue Springs Valley Park, 150 Bryson Lane in Cleveland.
On the schedule today are the Inspirations, the Perrys, the Singing Cookes and Wilma Smith. Saturday’s lineup features Primitive Quartet, Archie Watkins & Smoky Mountain Reunion, The Diplomats and Tim Frith & The Gospel Echoes.
The Singing Echoes originated in 1969 with Max and Lela Epperson, their sons Lynn and Gary, and Gary’s wife, Debbie. They earned a Grammy nomination in 1973 for “When I Wake Up To Sleep No More” and many of their songs have been covered by other artists.
In 1989, Gary and Debbie’s 8-year-old son, Joshua, joined the group to sing tenor. In 1990, Lynn’s 14-year-old son, Jeremy, came on as the full-time drummer. After Max and Lela retired from the group in 1995, Lynn’s two younger sons, Adam and Matt, joined the group full-time.
Admission is $13 each day. Concerts will be held rain or shine. Seating is bring-your-own, though folding chairs may be rented for $1. A concession stand will be open.
For more information, call 423-472-2421 or visit www.singingechoes.com.