Danny Federico
reporter3.riverbendnews@gmail.com
Enjoy an afternoon of good music an laughter with The Village Church's Gospel Festival on Saturday, Jan. 13. Beginning at 1 p.m., attendees will be able to enjoy performances by Gordon Jensen, the Blackwood Brothers Quartet and Ryan and Friends. Tickets cost $20 per person, and can be purchased through Eventbrite at eventbrite.com by searching “The Village Church” or at The Village Church office. For groups of 20 or more, call Martha Philbrook at (863) 875-8191. The Village Church is located at 23736 Park Center Dr., in Dowling Park.
Gordon Jensen
Gordon Jensen, a renowned Christian music artist and composer, has left a significant mark on the genre. Born in Canada and raised in a devout Christian home, Jensen's journey in music began at a young age, culminating in his solo ministry in 1979. Throughout his career, he has released numerous albums, achieving chart-topping success with hits like “God Still Loves the World” and “Redemption Draweth Nigh.”
His songwriting, translated into 15 languages, has been recorded over 2,000 times by various artists, including Cynthia Clawson, Larnelle Harris and The Oak Ridge Boys. Jensen's work has earned him multiple nominations for Songwriter of the Year by the Gospel Music Association, with several compositions receiving Top 10 Songs of the Year distinctions.
In addition to his musical accomplishments, Jensen is a sought-after performer with an extensive touring history. His approach to addressing Christian experiences in his songs sets him apart. With a commitment to praising the Lord Jesus Christ through his talents, Jensen continues to impact listeners, leaving them spiritually uplifted after each concert.
For more information about Jensen, visit gordonjensen.homestead.com.
The Blackwood Brothers
Formed in 1934, the Blackwood Brothers quartet, initially consisting of brothers Roy, Doyle, James and Roy's son, R.W., became a trailblazer in Gospel music. Despite setbacks, including retirements and tragedy, James, as the quartet's leader, revitalized the group, leading them to new heights by touring worldwide before he passed in 2002. James's sons, Jimmy and Billy, continued the tradition, with Billy now leading the quartet. Joined by Jim Rogers, renowned for his tenor voice, Jonathan Mattingly, the youngest member singing lead, and Eric Walker, a seasoned bass vocalist, the quartet maintains its over 80 years of tradition, captivating audiences globally.
For more information about the Blackwood Brothers, visit blackwoodbrothers.com.
Ryan and Friends
Ryan Bomgardner, a seasoned comedian with over 2,500 performances across six continents, entertains audiences with 175 shows each year. Known for flawlessly clean and sidesplitting comedy, he has been featured in the Cincinnati Inquirer, the History Channel and headlined on Disney Cruise Lines for crowds exceeding 55,000. His diverse performances include a laugh-crazed theater show, church events and dynamic corporate gigs.
Meet the characters in his act: Jeffrey, an 8-year-old with a witty outlook on life; Harold and Irene, the humorous elderly duo with plenty of opinions; Ardy the Skunk, a country critter with a mischievous side; and Tiffany, a giggly teenager with a love for all things superficial. Each adds their own unique charm to Bombgardner's shows.
For more information about Ryan and Friends, visit ryanandfriends.com.