Continuing its 2013 concert series, Emmanuel Reformed Church, 202 E. Morris Street, Morrison, IL, is thrilled to welcome Karen Peck and New River in concert on Saturday, October 19, 2013, at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of the church. All are welcome at the concert.
Karen Peck and New River is a three-time Grammy Award Nominated and two-time GMA Dove Award Winning Southern Gospel Group. Karen’s flawless, delightful, soprano voice has made its way into the hearts of Gospel Music lovers across the Country. She earned an unprecedented 11 Favorite Soprano Fan Awards from the readers of The Singing News Magazine. Over the past four years, New River has had five consecutive #1 songs in Southern Gospel Music. Their current album, Reach Out, has had two consecutive #1 songs for “On the Banks of the Promised Land” and “Mighty Big God.”
With appearances on such prestigious stages as The Grand Ole Opry, The Gaither Homecoming concerts, Opryland Theme Park, Dollywood and Six Flags Over Georgia, New River is established at the forefront of Southern Gospel Music. They have been featured on many television networks, enjoyed honors and accolades, and received numerous industry and fan award nominations. The group’s Number One hit, “Four Days Late,” was named Song of the Year by readers of The Singing New Magazine in 2001 and the SGMA Awards.
The youngest of three daughters, Karen was exposed to traditional sounds of Gospel Music at a very early age. Her parents often took her and sisters Susan and Sandra to all-night sings in Atlanta, GA. These concerts left an indelible mark on the youngsters, who made a pact that someday they would share a musical ministry of their own.
In 1981, Karen was invited to travel with her favorite group, The Nelons. She did so for ten years, gaining the respect of industry peers and fans alike, with her exceptional vocal ability and caring personality.
Finally in 1991, another dream came to pass when Karen and her sister, Susan, with Karen’s husband, Rickey, organized the musical entourage of Karen Peck and New River. Today the New River team consists vocally of Karen, Susan, and Jeff Hawes. Rickey is the road manager and sound technician; Susan’s husband, David, is the founder and owner of the Jackson Steel Guitar Company. Dawn Hughes has traveled with the group since 2000 as Karen Peck and New River’s assistant, making New River a complete family affair.
New River sets a standard for musical perfection. Rich vocal harmony is shaded with the sophistication of Southern Gospel, country, and progressive musical sounds. New River today stands not only as a talented and successful recording artist, but more importantly, effective messengers presenting the Gospel, through Jesus Christ.
You may recognize Karen as the opening soloist in the competition scene in the motion picture Joyful Noise, with Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah.
All are welcome to attend this concert of inspirational music and stirring testimony. There is no admission charged, although a free-will offering will be taken. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. Invite your friends and neighbors.
For more information, please visit the Emmanuel website at www.emmanuelreformedchurch.org and click on the “concert series” button.