.jpg)
The esteemed Country Music Hall of Famer and Grand Ole Opry star, Barbara Mandrell, takes a nostalgic journey back to her gospel roots with the digital release of "Where Could I Go (But to the Lord)," the lead single from her classic album "Precious Memories: 20 Hymns & Gospel Classics." Originally released as a two-record collection 35 years ago, the timeless album will make its digital debut on March 15, 2024, via Gaither Music Group.
Produced by renowned country music hitmaker Tom Collins, "Precious Memories: 20 Hymns & Gospel Classics" showcases Mandrell's profound and heartfelt renditions of gospel classics, reaffirming her deep connection with the genre. The digital release includes standards such as "The Old Rugged Cross" and "In the Garden," along with the evocative lead single, "Where Could I Go (But to the Lord)." The album's fusion of traditional hymns with Mandrell's distinctive style promises to captivate both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
Reflecting on the album, Mandrell shares, "When I recorded this album in 1989, I chose a group of songs that I grew up listening to and singing. They are songs that I still cherish to this day. It's an honor and thrill to think that 35 years later, this music will have the opportunity to touch a new generation of fans. I'm so thankful the folks at Gaither believe in this record as much today as I did back then."
The release of the first single, "Where Could I Go (But to the Lord)," is now available on all major digital streaming platforms. Additionally, the track will be featured on Gaither Radio on Pandora, Gaither Radio on Amazon, and Apple Music's Front Porch Country Gospel collections, as well as various label playlists on multiple online platforms. It will be showcased on the Gaither Music TV YouTube channel (over 3 million subscribers) and highlighted on the Gaither Facebook page (over 2 million followers). "Precious Memories: 20 Hymns & Gospel Classics" is distributed by Capitol Christian Music Group and Universal Music.
Barbara Mandrell's enduring legacy spans over three decades, marked by her versatility and groundbreaking contributions to the country music industry. From her beginnings as a prodigious steel guitar player to her rise to stardom with hits like "Sleeping Single in a Double Bed" and "I Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool," Mandrell has left an indelible mark on the genre. Beyond music, her influence extends into television, and her autobiography, "Get to the Heart: The Barbara Mandrell Story," became a New York Times Best Seller.
Since her retirement in 1997, Mandrell has remained focused on her faith, family, and country. The upcoming digital release of "Precious Memories: 20 Hymns & Gospel Classics" is a testament to her enduring talent and lifelong commitment to gospel music. Mandrell's impact on the music industry continues to resonate, and this latest work is a beautiful addition to her legendary career.