Most people during the CMA Festival are slammed with fan club parties and autograph signings, or shows at the river front, but I was fortunate enough to attend the Sunday Morning Church show, hosted by legendary Grand Ole Opry member Connie Smith. Upon entering they gave everyone a program filled with the events that was going to take place. They had artists scheduled like Connie Smith, Margo Smith, Roni Stoneman, Donna Stoneman, The Fox Brothers, Casey Rivers, Chris Young, Melanie Walker, The Red Hot Mamas, Johnny Counterfit, Linda Davis, Keni Thomas and more. As people filled the Ryman Auditorium, the stars took their places and wasted no time to start singing. There was a full choir and in addition four back up singers, who have toured with Dolly Parton. Each performer or group sang a couple songs each and some even teamed up for amazing duets, like Margo Smith and her daughter Holly Watson. Hank Locklin, who was scheduled, was unable to attend, but his son Hank Adam Locklin filled his spot and was amazing.
There were a few surprises throughout the afternoon, like Casey Rivers teaming up with The Jordanaires and the two original backup singers that sang backup for Elvis Presley when he recorded "How Great Thou Art" in 1966. Country Music Hall Of Fame Member, Jo Walker Meador stopped by just to see the show, and was surprised with an award for her work with churches and events throughout Nashville. Later in the show, Linda Davis who was already scheduled to perform was also awarded the "Candlelight" award. Thoughout the show, stars performed old gospel songs from "How Great Thou Art," "I Saw The Light," "Will The Circle Be Unbroken" and "In The Garden," to modern songs like "Walkin With The Man," and "God Is In Control." Sunday Morning Church has been a tradition for many years and is sure to last for years to come.
