OK...the great debate rages on: Who can claim to being the greatest Southern Gospel group ever? If you visit the vast number of forums and web sites that pertain to our favorite music, this topic is one that frequently arises - and while it seems there is agreement of the Top 10 greatest groups, pin-pointing the No. 1 is difficult.

So let's just right in the fray and see what the readers of Danny's Diary have to say. But before we begin, I'm going to set a few parameters:

1.) We're going to establish the leaders from the "classics" first. In other words, your nominee must be a group that is retired. Don't worry, we'll include current performers in another voting stage soon. For example, the Cathedrals, the Statesmen, the LeFevres are just three examples that are eligible.

2.) When you submit your nominee, please give a brief explanation why you think they qualify.

3.) If there is a certain line-up of your favorite group that feel exemplifies "their best," please include that. (For example, if you think the best version of the Statesmen was Hovie Lister, Jake Hess, Big Chief, Doy Ott and Denver Crumpler, please say so.)

Just send an e-mail to me by clicking on the "Send Comments" link at the bottom of this blog. In a week or so, I'll post the results and we'll move on to the next phase.

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Speaking of next week, don't expect a new post as I'll be on vacation for the next several days.

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In my work, I'm always asked about different concerts that take place around the country. Often I'm asked if I know about any "hidden jewels" of concerts that escape the major spotlight. One such concert is coming up in October, and it is one of the nations oldest Southern Gospel Singing Conventions. This event will be held on Friday, October 17 and Saturday, October 18, at Cave City Convention Center in Cave City, Kentucky.

The Kentucky State Gospel Singing Convention was organized on April 20, 1946, at a meeting in the Armory in Glasgow, Ky, with the late Rev. John Salmon elected as it's first president. Since then the event has been held several times in the following areas across the state of Kentucky: Bowling Green, Louisville, Hopkinsville, Madisonville, Murray, Park City, Liberty, Owensboro, Franklin, Campbellsville, Somerset, Glasgow, Scottsville, Richmond, Columbia, Munfordville, Elizabethtown, Leitchfield and Cave City.

There is no admission charge to attend this convention. For more information call (270) 678-3575 or (270) 646-3543 or visit the kentuckystategospelsingingconvention.org or www.gloryboundmusiconline.com.