The Gaither Vocal Band Says Farewell to Two Members

A few years ago, Southern Gospel legend Bill Gaither created all "all-star version" of the Gaither Vocal Band. The returning members were managing solo careers and GVB dates. For two of the artists, the extra tour dates, video tapings and recordings got to be too much and so after much thought and prayer, will be stepping away from Gaither Vocal Band as regular members.

Mark Lowry will fulfill his Gaither Vocal Band concert commitments through the end of 2013. He has also been confirmed for the 2014 Caribbean Cruise and Family Fest 2014.

Michael English has already concluded his last regular Gaither Vocal Band concert as the lead singer but will be at Gaither Fest in Myrtle Beach and other future events as his schedule permits.

Mark talked about the decision, saying, "When I rejoined the Gaither Vocal Band in 2009, I figured it wouldn't be a long-term commitment since Bill was over 70 years old. That was nearly five years ago and Bill's bucket list is wearing me out! But the Vocal Band is a family. We come and we go, but we never REALLY leave. I could pop up anywhere at any time!"

Bill thanked the two talented men for the time they spent with GVB, saying, "I am grateful that we have had five bonus years with these incredibly talented artists. Thank you, thank you to Michael and Mark. For those of you who have followed the Vocal Band for the past 25 years, you know that I have worked with some of the most talented male vocalists in our field, and I promise you we are not going to let that standard down in this transition. I am sad to see Michael and Mark leaving, yet I am so excited about the new possibilities we are considering. So stay tuned for an exciting voyage in 2014! We will update you when we have made final decisions."

Tags : Gaither Vocal Band Mark Lowry Michael English