McKenzie native, Bill Gaither band member celebrates ‘Band of the Year’ win

MCKENZIE, Tenn. — One band is recognized in a national magazine.

Bill Gaither and The Vocal Band won Band of the Year in “Singing News” magazine.

Matthew Holt, the keyboard player, says he has played the piano for the band for 13 years, and has been playing piano since he was three years old. Holt serves as Executive Director of Bethel University’s Renaissance program.

Holt, who is originally from McKenzie, said he and the band learn so much from Gaither, who is 88-years-old.

He hopes their music will continue to grow and touch the lives of those who listen to it.

“Singing News fan awards are actually voted on by the fans, which is interesting because most of the awards that are given in the music industry come from inside,” Holt said. “The folks that are producing or ranging, the record company executives, et cetera. But the Singing News awards are voted on by the people.”

Click here to listen to the band’s music.

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