CMT Blog: Archive

Last weekend, we traveled to Atlanta for a sold-out Bill Gaither Homecoming concert in front of 8,500 people. This was very different from doing a bluegrass festival, for at the start of the show, all the bands came out at one time from different sides of the stage to perform two songs together. Then, each artist came out and did two or three songs. It was a hopping show! Jamie and I walked out and sang “By The Mark” and the crowd embraced us. Then we brought out the band for one of Jamie’s songs, “When I Reach That Home Up There.”

We were nervous because we didn’t know how the crowd would like us, being bluegrass and not sounding like the other artists. But they applauded enthusiastically, and as we exited the stage, we were met by most of the other artists with words of support. After the show, we went to the record table to sign and take photos with the fans. One amazing thing that happened was that Bill Gaither gave away $200 to five people, who in turn were supposed to give it to someone they knew who could use it. I was overwhelmed! I’d never been to a show like this.

The second half of the show was set up differently. Everyone sat on stage and sang together. Being a bluegrass musician all my life I felt a bit like a fish out of water, but I smiled and enjoyed the fellowship. The most touching part of the night for me was the incredible songs that ministered to me. At the very end of the show when Gloria Gaither said a closing prayer as she held hands with Bill, I saw tears on his cheeks. We are so thankful to have been a part of the Gaither Homecoming. - Darrin Vincent