Jay Stone Singers Challenge Us to Take Action with New Album "Come Thirsty"

Family groups in Southern Gospel music go way back. The Speer Family, The Happy Goodmans, The Lefevres, just to name a few. The Jay Stone Singers may not be a household name, but they have a Forty-One-year heritage of ministry going back to their founder Jay Stone, his wife Mary and their two children, Jeff and Sharona. Keeping the tradition going now is Sharona, her husband Bobby, and their two children Stone and Emma.

Come Thirsty is the group's third album since starting to record with Skyland Records/Crossroads Music.  The album releases on September 29. Filled with strong material from some of the most recognized writers in the industry such as Kenna West, Rebecca Peck, Lee Black, Dixie and Sharon Phillips along with some original tunes from Bobby and Stone, you know you are in for a great listening experience.

Q:  Thank you for doing this interview with us.  Jay Stone Singers has a 41 year-old history, what would you say are the most important legacies you have left behind as a family group?

It is our hope that we have impacted lives throughout the years. My mom and dad, Jay and Mary Stone, who began this family ministry in 1976 have paved the way for us and we are continuing to live our legacy every day. - Sharona

Q:  Who makes up the Jay Stone Singers now?

Bobby, Sharona, Stone, and Emma Carter. We are an immediate family. Bobby and Sharona, the parents. Stone and Emma, the kids! Even though we aren't kids anymore. Stone is 23 and I (Emma) am 20. -Emma

Q: Congratulations on the forthcoming release of "Come Thirsty."  Did you approach the making of this album with specific goals in mind?

I think more so than ever the songs on this album have directly spoken to our hearts. We always search for songs that speak to us first because we have to believe in the message we are singing, but I know for myself I've never related to a song as much as I have Come Thirsty. When we started singing these songs in the studio and feeling them as we sang them, we realized that our goal was to pierce the hearts of all who heard what God has to say in each of these songs. - Emma

Q:  What is the first single released off this record in impacting Christian radio?  Tell us more about your new single.

Our first single is "I Won't Turn Back." This song reminds us that we are to keep moving forward and press towards the mark God has set before us. We won't turn back! - Sharona

Q:  You have also contributed a few originals on the record.  Tell us about some of them and what some of these original songs mean to you? 

I co-wrote a song with my friend Matthew Lawson called "Each Time." This song was a reflection of my heart when I remember the promises God gives to me. I know that He will see me through each and every time I need him. - Stone

John Mathis and I wrote "That's Where Miracles Begin" to remind people that even when you feel like you're at the end of your rope God is still holding you in His hand. He is still in the miracle working business and will always come through for us in our time of need. - Bobby

Q:  Who are some of the other songwriters on this record?

Rebecca Peck, Dixie Phillips, Amy Foster, Rachel McCutcheon, Sharon Phillips, Karen Peck Gooch, Sue C. Smith, Jason Cox, Kenna T. West, Don Poythress, Lee Black, and David Hanvelt.

Q:  What are your hopes for this record?  How do you wish this record would impact the lives of your fans? 

Our desire is that this album will remind people that there's more to a relationship with God than sitting back and praying for Him to work in our lives. He calls us to action in His word to trust Him, believe in His plan, and to turn to Him in our time of need. We want for this record to remind people of this important part of God's love for us.  

 

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