2024 National Quartet Convention

By Thomas Morrissey

September was accompanied by two notable hurricanes back-to-back and, of course, the National Southern Gospel Quartet Convention (NQC) in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. Pigeon Forge, home of the convention, happened to be situated well within Hurricane Helene’s outer bands. The rising creek behind our hotel’s parking lot marked Hurricane Helene’s approach and threatened to flood our hotel parking lot, which became partially roped off as Helene neared.

However, the weeklong concert of gospel quartet singing went on, unfettered with the biggest crowds I’ve seen there in years. There may be a couple of reasons to answer why the record crowd size. Post-COVID perhaps? But maybe the greater reason is a nationwide recognition of how badly we in this country need to return to Christ and change course. Perhaps attempts at revival are popping up here and there.

To my point, we are (or should be) aware of the degradation of basic moral, traditional American values in recent years — drag queens in libraries, drag queens in schools, in the military, the navy, in commercials, in athletics; gender-affirming surgery for kids; Abortion. Where will it end? I shudder to think.

In contrast, the NQC was a refreshing look at America, with well over 8,000 in attendance daily (over 40,000 total) seeking Christian entertainment from 10 a.m.-11 p.m. each day.

The convention is not just about the music, although Scripture instructs us to praise the Lord. Mornings open with a daily chapel service, which includes excellent preaching (C.T. Townsend and others, for example), hymns and fellowship. Turning Point Ministries, the broadcast ministry of Dr. David Jeremiah, was this year’s NQC title sponsor. Dr. Jeremiah was also this year’s keynote speaker on Friday.

The NQC is the largest annual gospel music event in the world, beckoning people from over 40 states and several countries, all looking forward to a true celebration of Christian music. Among the many artists performing were the Booth Brothers, Brian Free & Assurance, Gold City, Greater Vision, the Hoppers, Inspirations, Karen Peck & New River, the Collingsworth Family, the Kingsmen, Mark Trammell Quartet, the Perrys and so many others.

As always, a major highlight of the convention is the many reunions and spontaneous performances. Many musicians are original legacy members of various groups. Some have retired, passing the torch to a new generation of talented individuals. It is impossible to fully describe such an auditory and visual event in print, but it is fabulous. Surprise appearances by founding members of these groups, joining other icons of this performance genre, are often beyond description. Being in an auditorium filled with thousands, all standing, hands raised, singing praises to the Lord through the tradition of American gospel quartets is captivating.

I need to also mention the exhibit areas. Every group has a display in the exhibition areas. They have many products available including CDs, USB drives, souvenirs and, of course, a variety of t-shirts. I managed to find the absolute best shirt that reads, “MAGA: Make America Godly Again.” The groups will chat, discuss testimonies, assist you with engagement possibilities, etc. Most of the booking agencies for these performers are also present and available for these discussions as well.

If that is not enough, for several hours every day there are continuous performances at the food court area stage featuring up and coming performers, individuals and quartets, competing for an opportunity to perform on the big stage that evening. There is no shortage of entertainment and fellowship.

So, you may ask, how do I join in on this experience? How does my church, my ministry, my garden club or veterans’ association gain access to this great, spiritual music? Simply go to the NGQ website, and contact some of the performers or their booking agencies. You may be well pleased at just how economical many of these groups might be to book. Get together with another church or organization to share costs. Consider your city or town’s spring or fall festival, fourth of July celebration, etc. You can also book many of the performers as they travel between venues.

I recommend that everyone who sees this article consider hosting a quartet at their church or in the local area soon. And, in case you are thinking about attending next year, the NQC also offers assistance in organizing church group reservations and tours as well. The dates for the 2025 convention are Sept. 21-27.

I encourage you to check out their website, natqc.com, and see what is available. Better yet, book a local concert, maybe two or three yourself. It is easy enough to do. You can also subscribe to Singing News Magazine: (singingnews.com) to get a fix on where and when performers might be available in your area.