The Hoppers’ Generations ready to be released

MADISON, NC — The Hoppers, long considered America’s Favorite Family Of Gospel Music, have announced the upcoming release of their new musical project, entitled, “Generations.”

The compact disc will first be made available at the National Quartet Convention, Sept. 13 – 18, at the Kentucky Fair and Expo Center, at Louisville, KY.

The project is appropriately named in that the Hopper family — Claude, Connie, Mike, Dean and Kim — has used this occasion to musically reflect upon nearly five decades of old-time Southern Gospel favorites. They have chosen a number of sentimental Gospel treasures that will take the group back to its roots, while interweaving several new song titles — creating a rich tapestry of inspiring music with something for everybody.

“When we first began working on the ‘Generations’ project, we wanted to record some of the old songs that were our favorites from years gone by. We felt especially compelled to spotlight some of the timeless standards we enjoyed some thirty-odd years ago,” Connie Hopper explained. 

Claude Hopper, founder and manager of the group, explained that they are focusing on the classics because their audiences love these songs from the past. 

“We don’t sing them just because they’re old,” said Claude, smiling. “We sing them because they are great songs, and they have rich meaning.”

He recalled that people have often walked up to members of the group after a concert and asked, “Which of these CDs or cassettes have more of those happy, upbeat songs?” For these fans, The Hoppers have included toe-tapping, peppy numbers, such as, “I’m Living in Canaan” and “He Wrote My Name.”

They also perform an impressive arrangement of “The King’s Highway,” which Connie composed in 1976 after her first visit to Israel, where she traveled the ancient trade route. When she later returned home to North Carolina, she found herself pondering the entire Holy Land experience and was inspired by the 35th chapter of Isaiah. This song was the result.

The Hoppers demonstrate their versatility and beautiful harmony on a cheery rendition of the Bill and Gloria Gaither song, “Think on the Good Things,” which would seem to be capable of evoking a smile from anyone.   

Other selections that will undoubtedly command a rousing audience response include “What a Lovely Name” and “I’ve Come Too Far to Look Back.” 

Listeners can close their eyes and go back in time as Claude tenderly solos his superb interpretation of “Supper Time.”

Although The Hopper Brothers originally sang “Supper Time” in the mid-fifties, they never recorded it.

“I personally think Claude does an excellent job with this song and the recitation, which is very reminiscent of his own childhood,” Connie said.  

There are three brand new song titles integrated into this project:  “Song of the Soul,” “When Heaven’s Joy Is Mine,” and “I Wonder What They’re Thinking Now.” 

A final song on the collection is the stirring hymn, “Solid Rock,” which is, as Connie puts it, “a song which has spanned centuries and will continue to be sung for generations. 

“We hope everyone enjoys this acappella arrangement of this grand old hymn,” she added.

This new release follows the group’s very successful “Great Day” album, but you’ll find this collection significantly different.

This project has allowed The Hopper family to take a sentimental step backwards in order to reflect on their 47 years of music ministry. The outcome could best be described as intimate, warm and particularly inviting.

The Hoppers, never sounding any better, appear to be leading their fans on a spiritual journey.

They use this musical forum to strike a chord with listeners on the importance of taking time to reflect on one’s Christian heritage, stressing the importance of looking back through the “Generations” and counting one’s blessings. It’s at this special place of reflection that we often come to realize how the Lord is forever faithful and worthy of all praise.

The Hoppers have announced that they will be taking time to meet and greet friends, Djs and fans at Louisville during the National Quartet Convention. They will be signing copies of “Generations” at their booth.

Additionally, The Hoppers are planning a giant “#1 Party” and celebration in recognition of their current hit song, “Jerusalem.” The event will be held Friday night at the NQC, immediately following their stage performance. Everyone is invited.

The popular Southern Gospel family group will also be performing many of the songs from “Generations” during a “LIVE” videotaping, to be held at 7:00 p.m. on Oct. 1st, 2004, at the Renaissance Center, in Dickson, TN.

To attend this electrifying live stage concert, fans can order "Hopper Live Video" tickets by calling (615) 740-5570. Space is limited.

For more information about The Hoppers, their new CD, “Generations,” and their aggressive concert and ministry schedule, call (336) 548-2968, or e-mail them at info@thehoppers.com. The Hoppers’ official website is www.thehoppers.com.