The Art of Attending That Which Is the National Quartet Convention

In just a couple of weeks, the majority of the Southern Gospel industry - including artists, label executives, media, radio, fans, stalkers, and small dogs owned by said people (yes, I'm talking about you, Allens), will all ascend (or is descend?) upon Louisville, Kentucky for another exhausting week of the National Quartet Convention.

This week is looked upon with both delight and dread among everyone attending. There is no denying the fact that it is a fun week. We get to spend time with people who we normally only see maybe a couple times of the year (I try to be stationed at several artists booth during the week like Vertical Praise, Amazed, or The Dills in order to avoid my other obligations during the week. If my family asks where I'm at - don't bother looking in those booths for me. I won't be there. Seriously. Stop laughing, I'm being serious. At least that's what I'm telling my family!)

There are many things to be happy about in addition to the aforementioned quality time that will be spent with friends and family. For instance, I'm a big fan of the Aussie Cheese Fries and Bloomin' Onion. And who can ignore that great ice cream? Others have made several comments about this supposed heavenly porkchop sandwich. I wouldn't know - I try to avoid pork at all costs - mainly cause it's gross.

Food isn't the only thing to get really excited about. I always end up walking away with bags full of CDs, DVDs, T-shirts, small children, and more that I didn't go to NQC with. It's the perfect time of the year to pick up your favorite artist's new product (try to avoid taking children though - it seems people like their children after all). Some particular items to take note of this year would be Greater Vision's new album, Everyday People (which releases Tuesday of NQC), The Imperials' new Back to the Roots, or perhaps Karen Peck & New River's hip new t-shirts (I've been sporting mine proudly since July!).

I also love the chance to hear new artists that I've never heard before. NQC is where I first heard artists like Living Waters Trio, Sweet Water Revival, LordSong, Mercy's Well, Soul'd Out Quartet, Old Time Gospel Hour Quartet, CrossWay, The McRaes, and more and fell in love with their music. Who knows, maybe you'll hear the next Gold City or Isaacs while you're there? I'll know I'll be listening for it.

But then there's the most important thing to me - and that is the little bit of support and ministry that the fan can give their favorite artist. Don't miss out on a chance to bless someone else's ministry, whether that's through a simple "you did a great job today" or through purchasing product from a new artist to help fund their week. Tell the artist of how their song, like the Dove Brothers' "I Can Pray" or Young Harmony's "I Need Your Grace" helped you through a really hard time in your life. Let the Kingdom Heirs know that "The Rock's Between the Hard Place & You" is your daily jam or tell the Dixie Echoes that you've been praying for them and know that God will provide for them in this time of need.

NQC is a time of great food, fellowship, and ministry. Don't miss your chance to be used during the week, rather than just expecting every one else to minister to you. You won't know how much it will change you and give you a better week in the process.

As for me, I'm not going to be spending all my time in the booths that I mentioned (OK, if you happen to see me there, at least don't tell my family that's where I'm hiding). I hope you'll see me having a good time and trying not to take myself too seriously.

That's all for now - and I look forward to seeing all of you at one of the highlights of my year - the week that is the National Quartet Convention!

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