2008 Bill Gaither

Bill Gaither has spent the last 30 years composing and producing uplifting Christian music. Coming from a family of strong Christian faith, he knew from a young age that he could combine his love of music and his love of God to create uplifting gospel music. He first formed the Gaither Trio, which included Bill, his brother, and his sister Mary Ann, who was later replaced by his wife, Gloria. The trio was inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 1999. He and his wife have also released albums as a duo.

Through the decades Bill Gaither has inspired thousands to follow the word of the Lord with songs like 'Let's Just Praise the Lord' from the compilation album 30 Years of Award Winning Music. Along with the Gaither Trio and his duet work with his wife, Bill Gaither also released albums on his own. Welcome Back Home is a favorite of his fans, featuring singles like 'House of the Lord' and 'It's Beginning to Rain'. He won a Grammy in 1975 for the song 'Jesus, We Just Want to Thank You'.

Primarily releasing albums with Benson records, Bill Gaithers' style of music has not changed much in 30 years. He has been bringing joy to people with his music for all of that time. His songs cross generational boundaries to inspire both young and old. To supplement his songs he has also produced videos, many with his wife. In 1996 he released three video compilations featuring his much-loved gospel music. Homecoming Texas Style, Ryman Gospel Reunion, and Sing Your Blues Away all feature Bill and Gloria Gaither.

Gaither's music not only touches the hearts of those who actively follow the Christian music scene. In 2004, two of his singles placed on the Billboard Top 200 Charts. 'Build a Bridge' and 'We Will Stand' both received high praise from the critics and fans when they played on radio stations across the country, reaching a diverse audience. In 2003 Gaither was awarded with the first ever ASCAP Songwriter of the Century Award. Numerous Dove awards also grace the mantel at the Gaither house.

Gaither has toured to promote his music and his message throughout his long career. Tickets to his concerts are often bought in bulk by youth groups who attend to be enlightened by the catchy tunes and meaningful words sung by Bill Gaither and his friends. The touring group is called Bill Gaither and the Gaither Vocal Band. The Homecoming Concert series, also known as the 'Celebration Tour' travels across the US to share the word of God through song. Tickets are in high demand because the tour promises a 4-hour show of music and comedy appropriate for the whole family. Gaither has the crowd clapping and dancing throughout the performances. An impressive 375,000 tickets were sold through the first half of 2003. The line-up also includes gospel greats like Ben Speer, Jeff & Sheri Easter, Jessy Dixon, and Taylor Mason. The tour is also promoting Gaither's book, It's More Than the Music, as they please crowds across the country.