Hey there folks!

Just a quick note to give some updates on everything that is going on around here! You should have just seen an interview that I did for Gospel Music Times about an exciting new music convention coming up in July 2009.  The Branson Gospel Music Convention will be July 14th - 17th in Branson, MO.  It’s going to be a great celebration of Gospel Music and celebrate the legacy and history of the genre. Please check out the web site for all the updates…and watch for some special announcements that will be coming soon.

This weekend we’re back on the road and heading towards Ohio. We’ll be at the Turtle Creek Market on Saturday afternoon in Mason, OH. This is one of my favorite ministry times, because I get the chance to stand and share the message with people who likely never go to church. It’s a good time…and it’s a good chance to minister. Sunday morning we’ll be at the Judson Baptist Church in West Carrolton, OH. It’s been a little while since we’ve been with Pastor C, but we’re looking forward to being back there. Sunday night we’ll be in Mainville, OH at the Grace Community Church.  If you’re around these areas…please come by and see us!  The addresses and times can all be found on the website HERE.

Lots of folks to keep in prayer right now. My moms husband Larry is having some surgery and my cousin let me know about a special need that needs prayer. Many people are hurting and having a hard time with life in general, please remember to keep them in prayer. In addition, our nation is about to make a decision that will shape our country and the world going forward. While I won’t ever tell someone how they should vote, I will tell you to be sure and consider the views and values of those we have to choose from. While political opinions and positions can change, the word of God never does. His truth is the same today as it was always. It’s imperative and it’s time that every Christian stand up for what is right. We’ve become a complacent people in a lot of ways, and it’s time to change that. So prayerfully consider your choices…then proudly cast your ballot.

The new single has actually been delayed a few weeks due to some unfortunate circumstances. But it will be release the week of 11/10. It’s certainly though not too early to start e-mailing<A HREF=”mailto:sogo@xmradio.com“> XM Radio</A> and asking them to play “That’s How A Miracle Feels” by Rod Burton.

Also…make sure to visit our friends at iPod Juice and thank them for their support of our music. They’re very important to us…and I want them to be very important to you and all your iPod needs!

That’s it for this week…

It’s True, A World-Class, Southern Gospel Event Is Coming To Branson In July

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—First off, where did the idea of a convention of this size originate? 

ROD BURTON / YMR—I was approached by some folks who had the idea of putting together a world-class Christian music convention in the mid-section of the country. The idea was to make it accessible for artists that may not be able to get to Louisville for NQC, or other places that tend to be more in the mid-south, east area.

In addition they really wanted to focus on some of the pioneers of the genre, those who paved the way for us to be where we are today. That was really how the what and where came together. The size is a product of the area, when we discussed Branson and decided we wanted it to be at a time of year that families could come together, we new it would be a big event.

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—The question I know everyone wants the answer to is, “who or what is YMR Music Productions?”

ROD BURTON / YMR—YMR is a group of folks with a varied background that have come together to make this idea work. There’s more than 60 years of collective background in SG music, but each member also bring a strong background in things like Tradeshow Management and Corporate Project Management. These folks look at this both from a ministry and a business viewpoint. My wife Kelly and I are partners with YMR Music Productions.

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—So, if I understand you correctly, this will be something similar to the NQC?

ROD BURTON / YMR—No.  The NQC is the granddaddy of the SG Convention world. With roots and names that put it together like  R.W. Blackwood and J.D. Sumner…I wouldn’t dream of making a comparison to that.

This convention will have some of the favorite names from the past and the present as part of this celebration, and we’ll have a venue that will allow some wonderful regional artists to introduce themselves to a whole new audience. This is something that we hope will be an annual opportunity to celebrate the message and the heritage of the best loved genre of music around.

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—Tell us, what big differences do you think attendees will see between the Branson Gospel Music convention and other events similar to this one?

ROD BURTON / YMR—I hope the first thing that folks notice about this event will be the focus on the ministry and the message. This industry has some incredible talent and has produced some of the best music anywhere, but we’re different because the most important thing about what we do is the message we carry. We have artists that I would compare against any of the superstars today…but they’re different in that their primary focus is telling people about the love of Jesus. Add to that a new and beautiful Branson Convention Center, world class setup and design and being in beautiful Branson in the summer time, and we’re going to have a good time!

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—What part is Rod Burton playing in all this? 

ROD BURTON / YMR—I think I’m the head cheerleader of this event!  As mentioned before, Kelly and I are partners with YMR, but actually I was approached based on some of my SG and non SG background and the various contacts that I’ve been able to build.

I’m working with YMR on some of the artist relations and working with an artist board that will help to guide and keep us on track with our direction. This board will be made up of both national and regional artists and they will provide the voice of what works and doesn’t work. The goal is to make this an event that artists and audiences will both be very comfortable and very happy in attending. In addition I’ll be ministering and performing at the event as well. I’m very excited to introduce our ministry to the folks in Branson.

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—Everything that has been posted says there will be upwards of 200 artists, is this a real number? 

ROD BURTON / YMR—That is correct! The exhibit hall will hold some 220 artist booths and our goal is to provide an opportunity for every artist that wants to perform during the week to have that chance. We’ll have spotlight showcase opportunities during the day and main event concerts at night.

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—So is this like some other events, will the artists be required to pay to appear on these stages?

ROD BURTON / YMR–-No.  Artists who have a booth at the Branson GMC will be a part of the performance opportunities, if they’d like to be.

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—I see there will be exhibit space for artists to have booths selling their recorded products, will everything on sale in the exhibit hall be “gospel music” related?

ROD BURTON / YMR—Yes. We’re excited to offer the chance for artists to have their product tables and SG material available for the public to view and purchase. The exhibit hall and the daytime spotlight showcase events will be free and open to the public.

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—Are you having any “anchor” artists appearing?  You know, what we would call “big name” artists, or is it all regional and, for lack of a better term, “semi-big name” artists?

ROD BURTON / YMR—I am so excited about this inaugural year for Branson GMC! Not only will this be the first of many years for great SG music in Branson, but the theme this year is “Celebrating the History of SG Music!” We’re thrilled to have artists like The Blackwood Quartet, The Florida Boys, The Chuck Wagon Gang, The Stamps Quartet and many, many more. These groups paved the way for SG as we know it today and this will be a great opportunity to celebrate that.

There are several other names from that past that we’ll be releasing soon…and we’ll have some of the best known names of today. Add to that some incredible regional artists that will be joining us, and you can see why I’m just a little excited about it.

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—The slogan I saw on the convention logo was “It’s all about the message.”  What does that mean?

ROD BURTON / YMR—It’s just a reminder to those of us in the industry about what is the most important thing. We get so wrapped up sometimes with the business and managing all the activity, it’s very easy to lose sight of what’s really important. We’re going to be in one of Americas favorite tourist spots, at the heart of the tourist season and present some of the best music and ministry that folks could hope for.

There will be people in attendance that may not be SG fans today, but they grew up listening to names like Blackwood and The Stamps. That will bring them in and give our artists a chance to minister to people who might not get ministered to otherwise. We want the focus of this event to be Jesus…plain and simple. He’s the reason we sing.

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—Tell me what else is going to happen special at Branson, surely there’s something you can share with the Gospel Music Times readers. 

ROD BURTON / YMR—There are lots of things being finalized right now, so I don’t want to let the horse out quite yet, but I can promise that people are really going to like the plans. I will tell you that we’re working with a very large media outlet that will become “The Voice” of the Branson GMC and broadcast the event live every night. This is a major accomplishment and will give artists that are a part of this event some great exposure around the world.

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—Now, here is a good question…why Branson, MO and why in July? 

ROD BURTON / YMR—Hmmm…let’s see, one of the nations best tourist spots, in the summer where people can bring the whole family, why not? Also…did I mention that tickets for these evening performances are being put together to make this an affordable event for the whole family? And did I also mention that some great rates have already been secured for hotels in the area and right at the convention center? It’s going to be something you don’t want to miss!

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—If I am an artist, tell me why I should sign up to appear at the Branson Gospel Music Convention.  

ROD BURTON / YMR—We really feel that this convention will allow artists the opportunity to meet a new audience, meet some new friends and contacts, introduce their ministries to many new regions, and most importantly have the opportunity to reach the hearts of people from all over the country.

We’re not about hierarchy or one group being bigger than another, we’re about having everyone share their hearts and reach someone for the kingdom. We’re also going to great lengths to make this an event the artists will really enjoy. From great booth sets, to affordable costs, to availability of shore power for your bus…we want the artists to view this as one of the highlights of their whole year!

GOSPEL MUSIC TIMES—Ok, you sold me, now tell me how to sign up.

ROD BURTON / YMR–-It’s really simple…just visit us on-line at www.bransongmc.com . There are lists of information, frequently asked questions and a registration form that will get you all signed up. There’s also a contact form there for questions you might have!

Hey there folks!

Yes…that’s exactly how I feel! We’ve been so busy winding down since NQC that it’s been almost a month since I’ve sent an update. The weekend after NQC was our final monthly sing for this year at Fellowship Baptist.  The Disciples Quartet from Tipton, Indiana were our featured guests. They were a big hit and we had a great time. Since that was the last event for 2008, we’re already looking forward to the 2009 summer series. And, we’ve already got 2 of the 3 dates set with special guests. Be sure to check out the schedule at Rod Burton Music to get all the latest detail!

Speaking of the schedule, we’re still plenty busy the rest of this year…but we have started adding dates for 2009 as well. There are several large festivals we’ll be a part of for 2009 and we’d love to come be a part of your church service or event. You can contact me through the web site and we’ll work out a date to be with you. There’s also an announcement coming soon about a very exciting event being put together in Branson, MO for the summer. We’re lucky enough to be a part of the planning stages and the focus is going to around a celebration of the roots of Southern Gospel Music. The event will feature some great names from the early days, as well as some of today best known and most talented artists. Keep looking for detail…but plan a trip now for July 2009 to Branson, MO!.

The new CD is doing great! Walking In The Light has some great songs about life as a Christian. The new single will be “That’s How A Miracle Feels” and should be shipping to radio within a week. I’m really excited to get this out there. You can order your copy right from the website by clicking HERE.  In honor of that single, and most importantly in honor of the great Miracle that God has done in our lives, we’ve launched a very special Miracle Page!  This is a place where you can go and share the great miracles that God has done for you. So go on over and leave a note! 

As I mentioned, the new radio single should be headed to stations within a week. So while your local station MAY not have it yet, go ahead and call them and request it.  Just ask them to play “That’s How A Miracle Feels” by Rod Burton. It’ll be on the new ECC Comp disc 2008-06.  This would also be a great time to send a note to our friends at XM Radio. They have the whole new CD…so I’m looking forward to them adding several from “Walking In The Light”. So take just a quick second and click HERE to send them a note and ask them to play anything off the new CD! Also tell them what a great job they’re doing with spreading the good news across this great country. At any given time, more than 40,000 people are listening to XM across the nation.

We are fast approaching a pivotal time in our nation. While I’m not one to tell others how they should vote, I am one to encourage everyone to get out and do so. The issues facing our nation grow more dark every day. You can blame the left or the right, but the real issue is that we’ve removed God from our day to day governance.  By doing so our leaders have lost the focus of who we are to be and how we are to act. While I don’t particularly love everything about any of the candidates, I’ll be looking to get someone into office that holds to heart the knowledge that we are a nation under God, and there’s nothing wrong with that. We as Christians need to take a stand, and take it now. What the world has accepted as the norm, must surely break our Lords heart. We need to turn back to what is right, and away from those things that we know are wrong. I heard someone say the other day, we know what is right and what we should do…that’s the easy part. The hard part is setting our own selfish will aside and doing it. Prayerfully consider who should get your support on November 4th. It’s our duty to stand up and let our voices be heard.

I want to take time again to thank our great sponsors over at iPod Juice. We had the chance to talk to tons of people during NQC about iPod Juice and what it can do for them. I’ll say it again that their support this year has been SUCH a blessing to this ministry. Please stop by their site and let them know how much you appreciate their support to Rod Burton Music and make sure that everyone you know who has any I-world product uses them for all their iPod needs. Just click HERE and enter promo code RODBURTON for a special discount!

On a last note…while what we do is all about the message and the ministry, there’s also a business aspect of this world. While it’s never as much fun to deal with as meeting new folks and sharing the message with them, it is necessary (especially when it’s time to put fuel in the bus!!) to take care of those things as well. I so VERY much appreciate everyone who has donated to our ministry this year, and let you know there’s still time to get your donation in for this tax year. Remember that all donations to Almost Home Music are tax deductible.  Also, be sure and be watching for some exciting new announcements about new ventures and dates being added.

That’s it for this time…keep us in your prayers!
Till next time,

Blessings,

Rod

Rod’s latest single “That’s How a Miracle Feels” reminds us about God’s miraculous power in our everyday lives. Visit our new MIRACLES PAGE to share YOUR story of what God has done in your life!

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HOMEWOOD, Ill. – Eddie Crook Company and MorningStar Records recording artist Rod Burton announced today that plans for the Angelic Showcase during the National Quartet Convention are all wrapped up. The showcase will run Tuesday through Friday in the Label room of the Executive Inn in Louisville, Kentucky next week. The showcase will feature more than 60 artists from all over the country in what is being billed as a premier showcase event.

“We’ve got so many great artists to be a part of the showcase this year, including The Keatons (formerly The Dan Keaton Quartet), Eighth Day, Jackson and Scroggs and a host of others,” added Rod Burton, this year’s emcee and a performer as well. “We’re very excited to be able to bring so many great artists together for an event that is free and open to the public. Just show up, and you’ll be blessed beyond measure!”

This is the 2nd Annual Angelic Showcase, which this year expands from two days to four days. The showcase is owned and managed by Angelic Talent, and is sponsored this year by The Gospel Music Times, Southern Gospel Reporter, SGMRadio.com, Southern Gospel Glow, Revival Wind Music and Emcee Pro.

In addition to a great week of Gospel Music, this years event also feature the 1st ever Soloist Spotlight Showcase at NQC. The Soloist Spotlight will take place Friday morning from 9:00 a.m until 1:00 p.m. in the Label room of the Executive Inn, and it will feature some great regional solo artists. In addition there will be special performances by Rod Burton, Kenny Bishop, Chris Unthank and Sharron Kay King.

The Soloist Spotlight will also feature a panel made up of industry leaders and artists that will offer constructive review and feedback to each of the solo artists. The goal is to give perspectives on the individual’s performance in a way that will allow them to grow as artists and as ministers. Rod Burton added, “Being a soloist in Southern Gospel can be a challenge at times. But with some really great soloists that are in the field today, it’s becoming more and more accepted. These folks have a ministry and a desire to share Jesus with everyone they can. Helping them to grow that ministry with input from some of the best known folks in the business is a real treat for me.”

Be sure and visit the Angelic Showcase at the Executive Inn Label room all four days. For more information and a list of performers, visit http://www.angelicshowcase.com .

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++A BREAKNG NEWS UPDATE FROM ME (Rod)++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

We’ve just confirmed that Joanne Cash, sister of the late legend Johnny Cash, will be appearing on the Solo Spectacular at the Angelic Showcase. We are very excited to have Ms. Cash be a part of this historic event. Be sure to tell all your friends about the showcase, and be sure to get there early on Friday morning!

Rod Burton recently released his brand new recording – Walking In the Light. Walking In the Light was produced by industry veteran Eddie Crook with Rod Burton and Dave Wilcox providing executive production duties. Adrian Payne was the vocal producer for the recording.

Fans are encouraged to visit Rod’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/rodburtonmusicinc. Rod’s ShoutLife can be found at http://www.shoutlife.com/rodburtonmusic.

About Rod Burton

Rod Burton is one of Southern Gospel’s fastest rising soloists. Described by family and friends as an interesting cross between big city businessman and down-home country boy, Rod is winning over fans all across the country. Rod released his Morning Star Records album, Walking In the Light recently. His current single is “That’s How a Miracle Feels.”

Rod Burton’s ministry is sponsored by iPod Juice. iPodJuice is a San Antonio-based company that offers kits allowing people to replace the battery in their iPod in a matter of minutes. They can also replace the battery for customers that would rather outsource the entire job. More information on iPodJuice can be found at http://www.ipodjuice.com/ipod-mini-battery-replacement-products.htm.

till next time…

Blessings!
–
Rod
 
www.rodburtonmusic.com
http://www.shoutlife.com/rodburtonmusic
http://www.myspace.com/rodburtonmusic
http://xianz.com/Rod_Burton

Yes! You all saw the press release we forwarded out. The new CD is here and I’m really excited about it. I’ve had a lot of very positive feedback on it…and I’m really excited for folks to take a listen. You can hear some samples on our music page and can even order your copy from there. Take a listen…let me know what you think!

We actually just got the 1st “official” review from the Gospel Music Times publication. The reviewer was very good and offered several thoughts on what he liked and didn’t. I actually really like to have folks give me their thoughts. I always want to learn and make the next project that much better…so that’s a great way for me to get ideas. When you get a chance…take a look at his review.

It’s almost time for NQC and we’re pumped and ready to go! We’ve got so many things lined up this year, it’s going to be a really busy time. You can check out my NQC schedule on the web site. I’ll be doing several performances while there, as well as Emcee duties for The Angelic Showcase running Tuesday through Friday. On the Friday showcase, I’ll be co-hosting the 1st EVER Solo Showcase at NQC. This event will be a spotlight on some great solo artists and will feature a Soloist panel to offer constructive feedback to the artists participating. The one and only Kenny Bishop will by my co-host, and the panel will be made of several artists and industry leaders. I’m very excited about this time..and hope that many of you will join us for the event. We’ll be in booth 813 and 815 for the week, and the showcase will be held at the Executive Inn just outside the entrance to the Fair and Expo center. Be sure to come out and join us for some great times.

This weekend we’ll be in Saint Marys Ohio at Living Hope Assembly. The Pastor of this church is a guy that I went to high school with and traveled around the country playing and singing music with. Randy McKinney was my best friend when we were teens…and he’s got a great church there in Saint Marys. Service starts at 10am. Please come be with us if you are close. If you’re not close…start driving now.

A reminder to be sure and call and request songs from the brand new CD! Please take a minute RIGHT NOW to send an e-mail By CLICKING HERE, and ask them to play ANYTHING by Rod Burton!

Remember to go by and visit my friends over at iPodJuice! They’ve been amazing to this ministry, they’ve allowed us a chance to do so many thing, so be sure to visit them and share their info with all your iPod friends. Remember too…just enter RODBURTON at checkout for a great discount!

The last thing I’d ask you to remember are some special prayer requests. I won’t go into all the detail, but we know several families and several friends who are facing some very difficult trials right now. Just remember to say a little prayer for them…for strength, courage and comfort.

Till next time…

Blessing!

Rod

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HOMEWOOD, Ill. – Eddie Crook Company and Morning Star Records recording artist Rod Burton recently released his brand new recording – Walking In the Light.

Walking In the Light was produced by industry veteran Eddie Crook with Rod Burton and Dave Wilcox providing executive production duties.  Adrian Payne was the vocal producer for the recording.

Vocals for the new album were recorded at Hilltop Studios where Anthony Johnson and Adrian Payne engineered.  Walking In the Light was mastered at A2Z.

Rod Burton said, “The songs on this recording speak from a heart that has walked in darkness.  They speak from a soul that has found itself lost and away from God but by His grace has been restored and is now able to walk in His great light and love. I pray that the messages contained in these songs will challenge and encourage you to know that no matter how dark your path becomes, He is faithful to lead you through.”

Walking In the Light features songs written by some of the industry’s most sought-after songwriters such as Larry Petree, Tim & Lana Chandler, Sylvia Green, Rich Adkins, Michael Frost, and more. 

In addition, Eddie Crook, Gary Lunn, Kelly Back, Aaron Minick, and Mike Douchette played on the recording.

The Michael Frost-penned “That’s How a Miracle Feels” will be Rod’s first single from the album.  “That’s How a Miracle Feels” will be released to Southern Gospel radio through the Eddie Crook Company and promoted to radio with Phillip Emery and DJ Man Promotions.

Rod will have a busy week during the National Quartet Convention.  Rod will serve as host of the Angelic Talent Agency’s annual showcase – which will expand to four days this year.  Also, Rod will host the first ever Soloist Showcase on Friday, September 12, 2008.  In addition, he will appear on the Regional Artist Showcase on Tuesday of the Convention.

Rod will also perform on the Southern Spin Entertainment Showcase on Thursday, September 11, 2008 in the Executive Inn in Louisville, Kentucky during the week of the National Quartet Convention.

Rod recently unveiled his brand new, fully updated website in time for the release of his much anticipated new recording – Walking In the Light.  For more information on Rod Burton – visit http://www.rodburtonmusic.com.

Fans are encouraged to visit Rod’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/rodburtonmusicinc.  Rod’s ShoutLife can be found at http://www.shoutlife.com/rodburtonmusic.

About Rod Burton
Rod Burton is one of Southern Gospel’s fastest rising soloists. Described by family and friends as an interesting cross between big city businessman and down-home country boy, Rod is winning over fans all across the country.  Rod released his Morning Star Records album, Walking In the Light recently.  His current single is “That’s How a Miracle Feels.”

Rod Burton’s ministry is sponsored by iPod Juice. iPodJuice is a San Antonio-based company that offers kits allowing people to replace the battery in their iPod in a matter of minutes.  They can also replace the battery for customers that would rather outsource the entire job. More information on iPodJuice can be found at http://www.ipodjuice.com/ipod-mini-battery-replacement-products.htm.

And now…a note from me!

I have received several e-mails and notes over the last couple of weeks from people who just wanted to let me know how my songs have touched their lives. I can’t tell you how much it means for someone to say that a song they’re hearing is having an impact on their hearts. I so appreciate those notes and letters, please keep them coming!

The new CD is already being delivered to several radio stations and has already been sent to XM. Speaking of XM, we are getting a lot of airplay and hearing from several folks who have heard my songs there. So be sure and send an e-mail BY CLICKING HERE and ask Marlin and the gang to play the new CD as well. Also tell them what a great job they’re doing at XM Enlighten 34!

Remember my friends over at iPodJuice! They’ve been amazing to this ministry…so be sure to visit them and share their info with all your iPod friends. Remember too…just enter RODBURTON at checkout for a great discount!

Till next time….

Blessings,

–
Rod
 
www.rodburtonmusic.com
http://www.shoutlife.com/rodburtonmusic
http://www.myspace.com/rodburtonmusicinc
http://xianz.com/Rod_Burton

Hey there folks…hope everyone is doing well!

Actually…the new CD is not QUITE here…but I’m promised I will have some of them in hand this weekend. So…for those who have pre-ordered…they’ll be shipped when we get back in town on Monday. For those who have not pre-ordered yet…there’s still time to head over to the web site…put your order in and we’ll get them in the mail to you on Monday!

It’s been a busy couple of weeks. We had this past weekend off which was a real blessing. Miranda came down with a virus a couple of weeks ago and ended up in the hospital overnight for de-hydration. While she bounced back pretty well and we headed out for the weekend…the rest of us were on our way to various illnesses as well. I ended up with a sinus and ear infections…which tend to make it a little tough to sing. So I’m happy we had this past weekend to get better, and now we’re all ready to go!

Our last weekend out was to be a concert with Griffith and Company and a Sunday morning in Joy Illinois. The trip to Joy was fun…except for the small country roads and the sheets of rain at midnight making it hard to see the small country roads. We made it though…and even got a little sleep. We had a great time with the folks there at Grace Chapel and look forward to being back with them again. The Griffith and Company concert had a few problems in that G&C had a bus break down. Tony called me earlier in the day and they were stuck. But…we went on and had a great service at Fellowship Baptist. The next concert there is coming up on the 9th…more about that in a bit.

This weekend we’re headed to Marion Indiana for the Northern Singing Convention with The Northmen and a whole slew of other folks. Then Sunday morning we’ll be at the Calvary Assemblies there in Marion. If you’re close…be sure to come by and see us. That’ll be the first location that we’ll have the new CD project so come on by and pick one up!

The weekend of the 9th is a very special time for us. We’ll be holding the 2nd annual Homecoming service at The Fellowship Baptist Church in Chicago Heights, IL. This will be a great time and our special guests will be The Jay Stone Singers from Hope Mills, NC. In addition…this will also be Kaity’s dedication service, to give back to God the incredible miracle He’s given to us. If you’re close…please be sure and come join us. If you’re not close…start driving early!

My latest single “It’s Wonderful To Know” was up to # 13 this past week on one top 40 chart…so I’m very happy with how it’s being received. We’re still getting a lot of play over at XM as well. Recently released statistics show that at any give time, more than 40 thousand people across the nation are listening to Enlighten on XM34. That’s 40K people hearing my songs at one time…which is just amazing to me. Please be sure to take just a minute and shoot an e-mail to the folks at XM…let them know how much you appreciate what they’ve done for Christian music…and while you’re at it, ask them to play another song by Rod Burton. Just CLICK HERE and send a note to Marlin.

We’re in full prep mode for the National Quartet Convention. This year will be the 51st year for this event, and it’s expected to be bigger and better than ever. I’ll be sharing more about it as we get closer to the kickoff on September 8th. As of now, I’ll be the emcee for The Angelic Showcase Tuesday through Friday; I’ll be performing on a Regional Artist Showcase on Tuesday; The Southern Spin Showcase on Thursday and will be co-hosting the 1st ever Soloist Showcase on Friday morning with Mr. Kenny Bishop! It’s going to be a busy week….but I’m very excited about it.

Finally…let me leave you with this thought. Everyday we cross paths with people who are hurting, confused and lost. These people are facing trials, medical issues, loss…who knows, yet they continue to walk through life often with no hope of seeing a bright sunrise. Many times these people have few connections that can offer them a glimmer of hope…or even have people who are close that can offer support and feed them positive and uplifting encouragement. As Christians we are often the only light that ever shines in their world. How many times this past week have you missed an opportunity to just give a word of encouragement to someone? How many times have you missed the chance just to give a smile. Take time in your sphere of influence to impact those around you. Even if it’s just a nice comment or quick exchange…it might just make a difference to someone else in a way that you can’t imagine. That’s one of our jobs here in this life. Carry the love that Jesus has placed in your heart…and share it with those around you. They may not think like you do….may not all believe like you do…but you can still share a joy with them that may just change their lives.

So…do your job….love somebody!

Remember my friends over at iPodJuice! They’ve been amazing to this ministry…so be sure to visit them and share their info with all your iPod friends. Remember too…just enter RODBURTON at checkout for a great discount!

Till next time….

HOMEWOOD, Ill. – Eddie Crook Company and Morning Star Records recording artist Rod Burton is proud to announce his partnership with the Angelic Talent Agency to host the first ever Soloist Showcase at the upcoming National Quartet Convention.

The showcase will feature 12 of the industry’s best soloists. The showcase has already confirmed Rod Burton and Kenny Bishop as featured performers. Each artist will also receive a written response and feedback on his or her performance by an industry leader and/or professional.

“Being a soloist, I know the burden of trying to make a lasting impression in an industry that is so group focused,” said Rod Burton. “I wanted to be a part of something that would allow soloists a chance to really shine. I am excited about this showcase and the opportunities that it will present to many fantastic soloists in this industry.”

The inaugural Soloist Showcase will take place on Friday, September 12, 2008 during the week of the National Quartet Convention in Louisville, Kentucky. The showcase will be held at the Executive Inn and run from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

For more information on the Soloist Showcase, visit http://www.angelicshowcase.com.

Rod Burton will once again partner with Angelic Talent Agency as the host of their annual showcase during the week of the National Quartet Convention this September in Louisville, Kentucky. This year, the showcase will expand from two days to four days and will be held in two locations – ultimately featuring over 70 Southern Gospel artists.

Fans are encouraged to call their local radio station and request Rod’s current Top 40 single, “It’s Wonderful to Know”.

Rod recently unveiled his brand new, fully updated website in time for the release of his much anticipated new recording – Walking In the Light. For more information on Rod Burton – visit http://www.rodburtonmusic.com.

Fans are encouraged to visit Rod’s MySpace at http://www.myspace.com/rodburtonmusicinc. Rod’s ShoutLife can be found at http://www.shoutlife.com/rodburtonmusic.

About Rod Burton

Rod Burton is one of Southern Gospel’s fastest rising soloists. Described by family and friends as an interesting cross between big city businessman and down-home country boy, Rod is winning over fans all across the country. Rod released his Morning Star Records debut, By His Grace, in the spring of 2007. His current single is “It’s Wonderful to Know.”