I have a lot of love and respect for Claude and Connie and all of the Hoppers. They have not only been a wonderful Gospel Music group for eons, but it is my humble opinion that they represent all that is right about America. Family. Faith. Values. Sacrifice. Dedication. Leadership. Love. And Longevity.

The Hoppers have always been loved and respected in Gospel Music. Having grown up in North Carolina, I know every kid wanted to sing with their group. I'm thankful for the heritage they've handed down in quality and integrity.

The Hoppers are some of the finest people I have ever known. I have known them and worked with them over 40 years and have enjoyed their friendship.

It has been such a wonderful privilege to tour with the Hoppers. As we have both been on the same Homecoming stage with Bill and Gloria Gaither across the country, I am just excited about all that God has done and is doing in the lives of Claude, Connie, Kim, Mike and Dean.

As we began to have devotions weekend after weekend on the tour, I came to know Claude, Connie, Kim, and Mike in even more intimate ways. They have such a great love for our Lord and for His people. I firmly believe that they are not just singing to sing; but they are singing because Jesus has given them an internal song, which just seems to bubble over with great joy as they grace the stage.

I never remember learning who the Hoppers were. Growing up in North Carolina, the singing family felt a part of the landscape: our cherished “bragging rights” in the burgeoning genre of Gospel music. They were known
as people of integrity, sincerity, and humility. They wore matching clothes and traveled in a tour bus. It just didn’t get better than that.

I am one of the very fortunate ones who has shared their stage and watched their performances from the wings. I have heard the soft whispers of encouragement and quick prayers between verses. I have seen tears of joy and hope and gratitude absorbed into a white lace handkerchief. I have watched packed arenas come to a quiet standstill as Connie shared her rich, homespun perspective.

All these years later some things have, thankfully, remained unchanged. The Hoppers continue to record extraordinary songs with dynamic arrangements; they continue to make good business decisions, and they still love the people in the seats. They’ve kept our bragging rights intact.

Nearly fifty years later, it still doesn’t get better than that.