37-Final
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
During the past few weeks, readers of Danny's Diary have been e-mailing their thoughts about the top news stories that have occured during the 37 year history of Singing News. (For the most recent list, visit the Danny's Diary archives for March 17, 2006.) Since the suggestions have trickled to a crawl, I think the time is right to present to you what the readers of Danny's Diary have selected as their Top Ten News stories since Singing News began publishing in 1969.
Remember, this is not a scientific survey by any means and the items found on this list come solely from the readers of this diary and may or may not represent the general thinking of all Southern Gospel music fans. I'll list these in ascending order, with the 10th biggest news story presented first.
10. The death of Rex Nelon (2000)
9. The sudden retirement of the Bishops (2001)
8. Roger Bennett's ongoing health battles (1995-current)
7. The opening of the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame (1999)
6. The death of Anthony Burger (2006)
5. The death of JD Sumner (1998)
4. The death of Jake Hess (2004)
3. The retirement of the Cathedrals (1999)
2. The death of Vestal Goodman (2003)
1. The death of George Younce (2005)
I'll agree that all of these events have had a huge impact on the world of Southern Gospel music. Regretfully, though, so many of them center around the death of someone.
Before I sign off for today, I must share a thought with you. As I was preparing this diary and typing in those ten news stories, there was one event that, frankly, hit me like a ton of bricks. For several minutes, all I could think of was "I can't believe that's not on there." Then, after reviewing the items that had been submitted, I realized that no one, including me, had suggested it. And, after I share it with you, I have to wonder if you'll ask the same thing I did: "Does this change the list?"
Ready?
The death of Glen Payne during the time of the Cathedrals' Farewell Tour.
Your turn. Comments?
