International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame Legend Randall Franks leads a cast of performers sharing sacred sounds of bluegrass, country and Southern gospel for a new DVD.
“This program highlights some wonderfully talented entertainers who have been so gracious to support our efforts to encourage youth helping us raise funds for scholarships,” Mr. Franks said.
“Precious Memories” was filmed live from the stage of the 166 year-old Ringgold Depot in Ringgold, Ga.
The project features performances by Mr.
Franks, “Officer Randy Goode” from TV’s “In the Heat of the Night;” Southern gospel performers Tim Owens and Journey On, and Calvary’s Blend; bluegrass guitarist Butch Lanham; country vocalist Johnnie Sue; and two Share America scholars – pianist Ryan Stinson and banjo player Cody Harvey of Mountain Cove Bluegrass.
The 18-song collection includes some standards such as “Precious Memories,” “Amazing Grace,” “Just a Closer Walk with Thee,’ “Old Time Religion,” and “The Old Gospel Ship.”
“The gathering also recognizes the contributions of one of our founding directors – the late Joe Turner who made such a difference in the lives of so many youth and is also dedicated in memory of the late director Gene Lowery,” Mr. Franks said.
To raise awareness of the release, Share America has released two recordings, “Precious Memories” and “The Purple Robe,” featuring Independent Country Music Hall of Famer Franks to bluegrass and gospel radio stations through AirplayDirect.com.
The DVD, produced in association with Peach Picked Productions and Tim Witt Studio of Rocky Face is a fundraiser for the Pearl and Floyd Franks Scholarship Fund. The Share America Foundation, Inc., a Georgia non-profit, presents scholarships to musicians who excel in the Appalachian musical arts. Share America hosts 10 fundraising concerts annually at the Ringgold Depot.
To receive a copy of the DVD visit
www.shareamericafoundation.org and make a $20 donation or mail to Share America Foundation, Inc. P.O. Box 42, Tunnel Hill, Ga. 30755.