1974 was the start of really big things for the Hemphills, as their music really began gaining some major traction. “Ready to Leave” was a tremendous album for the group and was only the beginning of great thing!
James Hales
James is a lifelong fan of Southern Gospel Music. Being exposed to the music through his dad's record collection as a 7 or 8 year old boy in the late 70's, James grew to love the music of the Happy Goodmans, Kingsmen, Inspirations, Rambos, Florida Boys and others. James has been a staff writer for Absolutely Gospel since 2000 writing music reviews and various articles, and he has contributed to Musicscribe and SGHistory.com for several years as well. James also writes for his own music page on Facebook as well, via James' Music Page (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063484056683).
The Hemphills – “In Action” (1973)
The Hemphills’ only release for 1973, was this live gem, that was originally released independently before being picked up by Heartwarming Records. It’s a wonderfully raw and genuine live album, showcasing the Hemphills “In Action”!
The Hemphills – “Sweet Zion’s Song” (1972)
For their last album on Canaan, the Hemphills released “Sweet Zion’s Song” during the second half of 1972. A mix of newly penned Hemphill tunes along with popular cover tunes of the day, it was a unique mix of songs, all done in typical Hemphill style!
The Hemphills – “Make Mine Gospel” (1972)
As we come to the year of my birth (1972), the Hemphills released this great album which featured several wonderful songs including “I’ll Soon Be Gone”, “Preacher’s Boy” and “I Want to See Jesus”. Check it out…
The Hemphills – “Old Brush Arbor Days” (1970)
This next album in the Hemphills discography was a very cool, rustic sounding album, which really matched the vibe of the cover. Check out what James has to say about this gem of an album!
Joel & LaBreeska Hemphill / Hemphills – “The Country Gospel Style” (1967), “In Gospel Country” (1968) & “Take Us Home With You” (1969)
In keeping with family groups, the Hemphills were one of the greatest groups to grace the SG stage. Join us as we journey through their discography over the ensuing weeks, starting with this trio of their earliest works…
The Nelons – “Peace Within the Walls” (1998)
This is our final entry for our discography review of the Nelons. Check out what James has to say about Rex’s final recording with the group, “Peace Within the Walls”.
The Nelons – “We’ve Got to Praise Him” (1997)
After 2 solid years of consistency and renewed success, change boarded the Nelons bus once again. Nonetheless, they came together to release this massive recording entitled, “We’ve Got to Praise Him”.
The Nelons – “Glad You’re Here” (1996)
This particular iteration of the Nelons recorded one more great album with “Glad You’re Here”, which came out in 1996. This was such a warm and inviting album and showcased the group at their finest!