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Gann Brothers article from the Singing News August 1999 Issue

 

The Gann Brothers are one of the groups that have proven that the typical make-up of a Southern Gospel musical ministry does not always apply. The stereotypical "group" usually includes a team of vocalists and musicians in which one member serves as road manager, while another as the on-stage emcee. There is usually a group member who is responsible for the product, and yet another is recognized as the group's chief songwriter-not to mention the various other duties involved with keeping a musical ministry successfully on the road.

Now, the Gann Brothers do fit this description in some areas. However, they have "broken the mold," so to speak, when it comes to "the one songwriter-per-group" philosophy: all four members are accomplished songwriters.

 Calvin Gann, who grew up in the home of a pastor, has been a life-long lover of music. He has been involved in the music ministry since 1973, co-founded a group called Harvest with his brother Phil. Calvin has written songs for groups such as Gold City as well as his current group. Some of his hits include "I Met Jesus On The Radio," "Take What I Have," "Don't You Believe It When They Say I'm Gone" and "Mansion Builder." Calvin is the lead vocalist for the Gann Brothers.

Phil Gann has been involved in the singing ministry since 1975. He and Calvin began the Gann Brothers' ministry in 1982. Phil sings baritone and plays bass and rhythm guitar. Phil has written several songs, including "Peace Be Still," which is on the Gann Brothers' latest recording. Others include "Prayer," "I Know His Voice," "Restless Heart" and "Keep My Eyes On The Old Rugged Cross." These titles ring a few bells, don't they?

In 1998 another musical team, Kyle and George Ministries, merged with the brothers Gann. Thus, the beginning the current Gann Brothers. Kyle Peddie and George Roberts, the founders of "Kyle and George," now join Phil and Calvin on stage each night for a musical combination that has 

In the past, the Gann Brothers have had several top 40 songs...

generated more excitement than the Gann Brothers have seen in a while. Kyle has been actively involved in music evangelism since 1986. Kyle sings tenor and plays the bass guitar. He also occasionally throws in some keyboards. One of Kyle's songwriting efforts, entitled "The Father's Love" is also on the Gann Brothers' latest recording. He has also written such songs as "Holy God" and Heart Away." Kyle enjoys co-writing with his wife, who sings with the contemporary Christian group, Clear Voice.

Last, but not least, to complete the ministry of the Gann Brothers, George serves as road manager and drummer for the group. George, too, has several songs to his credit such as "Stand Firm" and "The Power Of Christ." George was involved in a major automobile accident in 1993 that has given him a powerful testimony, which he shares from his heart whenever the opportunity is presented.

The Gann Brothers are keeping busy, singing around 110 dates a year booked by Cricket Lee at Paradigm Artist Management. They record with Kevin McManus' Zion Records, the label on which their current recording Renewed is found. You've probably heard the single release from that recording, "Let's Go In" on your favorite radio station.

In the past, the Gann Brothers have had several top 40 songs such as "I Met Jesus On The Radio," "Love Beyond Measure" and "My Shadow." Their upcoming release is a song written by Steve White and Craig Pippin, entitled "True To His Word."

Calvin says one of the most rewarding experiences for the group would have to be singing on the revolving stage at the National Quartet Convention. They have also enjoyed singing several times at the world-famous All-Night Singing in Bonifay, FL. "Each time we stand on stage to sing, it is always rewarding,. But, best of all is each time when a life is touched or someone is saved as a result of our music," he says. "It just doesn't get any better than that."

Each group member agrees that their parents have been their greatest influences in life, in music, and in ministry. "All of our parents were strong in the Christian faith and were diligent as they pointed their families to Christ. that is why a majority of our ministry is geared toward the family," says Calvin. They are also quick to admit that without the support of their wives and families, there would be no Gann Brothers.

Although the Gann Brothers are excited about their success in the past, they are even more excited to see what the future hold for their ministry. "The present group is the greatest combination of personalities, music, and spirit we have ever had in this organization," says Calvin. "We signed with Zion Music Group in November 1998. God blessed us with a new Prevost Bus in December 1998, and our album Renewed came out December 31, 1998. That started 1999 out with a lot of excitement. We can't wait to see what else is around the bend."

One thing they are about to see is the recording of a new album this month. Each group member is currently in "songwriter mode" as they compose and select material for this project. "Since all four of us are songwriters, when we get in "song writer mode" everything someone says can - and will - possibly be put to music. It's always a fun time. you should hear some of the songs that don't make the cut. It's kinda scary," laughs Calvin. "But, God seems to always move upon our men and other writers to come up with songs that touch lives. I fully expect this time will be no exception."

With four men sold out to God and a renewed excitement about their ministry, who would expect anything else"

Reprinted courtesy of Singing News Magazine. ©1999 All rights reserved

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