With the passing this week of famous TV pitchman Ed McMahon, we can all quit waiting at the door for our winnings from that publishing clearinghouse. But after reading about his long career, my feeble brain started wandering around...
Tennis players carry the logo on their sleeve. The racing cars are moving billboards. TV stars smile dutifully for the camera as they shout the praises of the latest new and improved gizmo.
Yes, we're talking about the wonderful world of endorsements. Just think - how many times have you seen your favorite movie star trying to sell you a car. Or phone service? Or car insurance? Or...anything.
But what if the personalities in Southern Gospel music were turned into product spokesmen? Just who would advertise what?
The possibilities are endless, but let's be honest - there are some people who would be naturals....
For example, Gold City's former lead singer Jonathan Wilburn would have to be pushing toothpaste. That toothy smile of his is as well known as his singing abilities and there's no doubt in my mind that he would be the perfect pitchman for Colgate or whatever brand of toothpaste you might choose. Triumphant Quartet's David Sutton would probably pitch for a toothpaste company, too.
Scott Fowler of Legacy Five would be advertising a brokerage firm.
What about Larry Riddle of the Primitive Quartet? As much as he loves to fish and hunt, he'd either be promoting rods and reels or Remington shotguns. Why, he'd probably even have his own outdoors TV program. It would be co-hosted, though, by Ronnie Booth of the Booth Brothers, who has been known to spend many, many, many, many many hours "ministering to the fish" on lakes near Nashville and in Florida.
Tony Greene? Presiding at funerals or selling pre-need funeral services. (Come to think of it, he DOES do that!)
Archie Watkins, formerly of the Inspirations, loves to see the country as he and his wife Cindy hit the road in their RV. This is a toss-up, but I think Archie would try to sell you either a motorhome or a vacation weekend in a mountain cabin.
Then there's our own Jerry Kirksey. Think Cracker Barrel. Or Krispy-Kreme.