From the Smoky Mountains of east Tennessee, Southern Gospel music fills the air and is the home of the Kingdom Heirs, one of the country's top male quartets. They are the resident “house group” at Dollywood (where they appear nine months out of the year), so you just know they've got to be great. Nominated many times for industry awards such as SGMA, Dove Awards, and the Singing News Fan Awards, their latest accolade is Band of the Year for 2012 (which they have won four times previously).

The Kingdom Heirs have also had many top ten songs, and current have had 33 top 5 songs in a row and 7 Number 1 songs, including their latest chart-topper, “Just Preach Jesus,” which is included in this great CD. The title, “We Will Stand Our Ground” talks about being empowered by God to defend the faith of Redemption.

The group's founder is Steve French, who sings baritone and is the emcee of their live shows. Lead singer Arthur Rice is in his 17th year with the group and is without question one of the finest vocalists to appear on any stage. Now in his 11th year is Jeff Chapman, who in our opinion is absolutely the best bass singer in Southern Gospel music today. What makes Jeff so unique is that not only can he sing the lowest of the low notes, he is unusual in being able to also sing the lead. (Just listen to him sing the new song, “Where's John?” where he tops off the bridge with a high B). Handling the tenor part is Jerry Martin, who has plenty of power and vocal agility. The Kingdom Heirs also boast veteran drummer Dennis Murphy, bassist Kreis French, and talented pianist Andy Stringfeld.

The opening track addresses the Christian of the 21st century, with lyrics that are relevant to today's living. There are so many things around us that can cause confusion and doubt, but the chorus ends with the message “I'm not worried ’bout forever, and God's got me covered today.”

“Tell Me Why” features a country arrangement, with new group member Martin blending well with Mr. Rice. “I'm A Brand New Man” talks about Zacchaeus becoming a new person after his encounter with Christ, and Jeff's bass voice carries the lead with conviction and rich intonation. “If You Give the Devil An Inch” is a jazzy little number with a chorus that features some thick harmonies. “Heaven Is My Goal” kicks off with some old-time piano playing and the arrangement lends a classic quartet feel. Jerry's tenor really shines on this one. Before joining the Kingdom Heirs, Arthur Rice traveled with another fine singer/songwriter, Squire Parsons. “It's Real” was written by Squire and it's great the KH’s brought it back. It has a fun call-and-response ending.

“I'm Gonna Hit the Ground Running” is a boogie swing track that has bass singer Jeff singing the verses and digging into some low notes which are bouncy and clean. We love what the rest of the guys do on the second verse to back him. They let loose on the chorus and end with the classic sixth. “No Bones About It” has a clever play on words, with Jeff's low notes leading into each chorus.  “Just Preach Jesus” is inspired by the story of Philip.

If you ever get a chance to attend one of their live concerts (they tour the country January to March), be sure not to miss them!

To sample some of the tracks, click the speaker icon below to hear them. Then scroll down the page to order today!