Sparta Church Set To Host Grammy Winner Friday

Sparta First Baptist Church will host a concert Friday night featuring Grammy Award Winner David Phelps.

Phelps has topped the Billboard charts with gospel and secular music. Phelps was a member of the Gaither Vocal Band and during his tenure, he won a Grammy Award for Best Southern, Country or Bluegrass Gospel Album. Sparta First Baptist Church Pastor of Worship and Discipleship Jon Rushing said the concert is for everyone.

“It’s a great opportunity for people just to be around the church, to be around believers,” Rushing said. “But also to enjoy a night of music you know whether or not you agree with everyone in this faith family or not.”

Rushing said he worked with the booking agent of Phelps in years past and due to a recent cancellation, the booking agent asked if they would be willing to host. Phelps’ current tour called “After The Downbeat: Stories & Songs.”

“It’s going to be an encouragement to a lot of people, some of which may be involved in church some of which may not,” Rushing said. “And I think they are going to come and hear an uplifting message.”

Phelps was nominated in 2009 for the Dove Award for Male Vocalist of the Year and Long Form Video for the Christmas DVD, “O Holy Night.” Rushing said he was excited for the upcoming concert.

“As a worship leader and singer, I was a vocal major in college,” Rushing said. “And when I hear David Phelps sing, I think wow! That is a vocal precision that not very many people match.”

The concert takes place at Sparta First Baptist Church Friday, beginning at 7pm. Tickets are available at DavidPhelps.Com or in the office at Sparta First Baptist Church.