It’s Monday evening following the National Quartet Convention. I’m exhausted, but can’t seem to stop smiling! I’m feeling so very blessed to have had the opportunity of meeting so many of my favorite artists! Now, I’m pinching myself and wondering last week was a dream or if it really happened! lol If someone would have told me a few short years ago that I would be smack dab in the middle of the gospel music industry with my own music and hanging out with gospel greats, I would have rolled in the floor laughing. God’s plans are always bigger and better than we can imagine.

It’s not that I’m star-struck- it’s just that I couldn’t be in a better position to learn from the best! Last month, I got to interview America’s Favorite Family of Gospel Music. I spent a good hour and half just talking to The Hoppers. They were so poised, yet so friendly. Professional, but transparent and before it was all said and done, Claude extended an offer to help us in our ministry.

I had so many awesome moments at NQC- touching moments such as shedding tears with Charlotte Ritchie as we talked about the goodness of God, giggling with Kelly Bowling and Terah Penhollow and catching up with John Mathis Jr. and Allison Speer. I don’t know why God chose me for this, but I know He has a plan and has his hand on me. Honestly- it makes me cry as I think about it… Again, God was faithful to confirm his plans and direction for me. One night during the convention, I had a special visit with Billy Blackwood of the legendary Blackwood Brothers Quartet. We had a great conversation, but before it ended- this industry giant knelt down before me and prayed for me and my ministry in such a sweet way. I have to say- I was overwhelmed by his kindness and again, felt the hand of God over me.

I’m finding there are some gentle giants in this industry. I’m finding that some of the most successful and well known artists are very humble, real and transparent. I am most grateful for the experience and opportunity of getting to soak up their wisdom and learn from their experiences… Again.. WHY ME, God? I’m just little o’ Rhonda Frye from Ringgold, GA- un qualifed for every single ministry I’m involved in… BUT.. I sure like the way You’re teaching me!

I’m a little overwhelmed with the work that lies ahead, I have about 16 stories to write!!!! WHEW! But- so excited… so blessed!

Feeling very very blessed and treasuring many special moments at this year’s National Quartet Convention. Special thanks to Rob Patz for giving me the opportunity to be Editor in Chief at SGNScoops magazine. Special thanks to Lorraine Walker, Denise Salchow for all their hard work this week in our booth. EXTRA special thanks to my sweet husband that worked by my side all week long taking AMAZING pictures all week. Everybody loved him!!

Be sure to check out more pictures on my Rhonda Frye Facebook Page!!

WHO-DA thought it? ME! On.The.Radio?!?!?! Yay! I’m really excited about my new song release that came out this month. “Come to Me” is a sweet, soothing song that reminds us that Jesus is with us night and day. A friend of my struggling with cancer explained to me how she could hold it together during the day, but at night when she didn’t have to be strong for anyone- the fear overwhelmed her. Jesus is faithful to be right there to shower us with His grace when we cry out to Him.

I love the music in this song- Steve Babb and Fred Schendel have always matched my style with music so beautifully. Also- my baby girl- Ally is singing back ups on this. Actually- this was her first introuduction to the sound booth… She was so scared, I had to go in with her. The very last line of back ground vocals was recorded with us holding hands in the vocal booth at Sound Resources… Now she’s a pro.. lol

This is just my second release, but praying for God to get it on the air… Oh yeah- just remembered- I did win a songwriting award from NACMAI on this song too. I think it was “most promising” song of the year award.

Please call your gospel radio stations and request “Come To Me… In Chattanooga, call Ken Hicks on Sunday mornings at US101. My friends at 107.5 “do me real good” lol… they play my music a lot and I’m very appreciative!!
Also- keep me in your prayers, will be singing this to a good sized group of radio djs from everywhere and more at the National Quartet Convention…YIKES!

For the official news release, check it out here http://www.sgnscoops.com/2011/08/22/rhonda-fryes-latest-single-released-through-patterson-promotions/

Wow! What a week we had last week training with Allison Durham Speer at the Elijah School of Performance! I think this was the kick in the seat of the pants we needed to propel us into ministry as a trio. Allison, Mike Allen- along with a panel of industry pro’s- have confirmed what I’ve known in my heart for a long time. God’s plan has been a family music ministry, it’s just taken a little time to prepare. Allison had many encouraging things to say, but perhaps what I’m clinging to is this: “You have every element to do this full-time- don’t look back!” We are in the process of implementing what we’ve learned and are stepping out in faith. I can’t say how proud I was of my husband and my baby girl! Eric and Ally just “let-go”, had fun and performed like pros- loving every minute of it. We are excited about moving to the next level!!

We are also very grateful for the time and efforts made by the entire staff. We felt loved, encouraged and challenged to become great at communicating the gospel in song. It was truly a blessing, because I attended two years ago and already felt to be a part of the “Elijah Family.” It is such a blessing for the Elijah Staff to embrace my family as well as me. The Elijah Staff welcomed my husband and daughter with open arms and I am overwhelmed at the love and support shown to us all. Thank you, Elijah School of Performance and to every single person that played a part in it’s existence and execution- we are CHANGED!

My friends that know me well, know that organization does NOT come natural for me! Most of you know too, that I love to read, study the Bible and Christianity as well as I love to write about it. So- being that I’m not organized and I love to study- you can just imagine the fix I’m always in.

I have several “favorite” Bibles! I have study Bibles, devotional Bibles and illustrated Bibles in several translations. I think I have “Bible-i-tis!” I also frequently visit Christian websites, read blogs,and watch you-tube or stream-lined sermons too. When I’m not reading those types of things, I’ve got my nose buried in a good book or I’m listening intently to a sermon on Moody Radio as I try to jot down notes-of course to eventually lose. I guess you could say I’m obsessed with learning more about God. I find him most fascinating and mysterious and I love writing about what I learn. Study is such a thrill for me. I write, star, circle in ALL my bibles and books and save websites to my favorites.

Not only do I love to study, I love to journal too- It’s actually written conversations I have with God. To keep me from distraction, I’ve learned I do better if I write my prayers out in detail like I’m writing Jesus a letter. Often times I write in faith what I sense Him saying to my heart. But ya know- I’m always picking up a different journal, or notebook or anything I can find to write on.

Study, Reading, Writing- those are good things! My problem? Well- my journaling is not in chronological order or together. And…when I try to remember where I learned that “great truth” I’ve learned- I never have a clue where I read or heard it! I waste precious time flipping through books and Bibles and looking through all my journals trying to find information or research. I’ve thought about setting up files under topics and every time I read or write something that fits, maybe I should rip that page out and file it!- LOL.. You know that wouldn’t work.. SOOOOOO Here’s what I’m doing and it’s WORKING. I thought I’d pass it along.

I opened up an email account in gmail. This email is only for me, not for communication. Under labels- I have made the following folders or labels: writing research by topic, analogies, a-ha moments, writing topic ideas, lyrics, song writing ideas, song hooks,instructions by God, sermon notes, and sweet somethings. When I’m reading or whatever- if I come across something and think- that would be a great resource if I were to write about “grace” or “adversity”- I email myself- put the date, topic in the subject line and in the body I put the source- page number- then file. If I find something 3 weeks from now on the same topic, I can pull it up, add to it, resend and file. Same thing if something jumps off the page as an “aha” moment, I can email that to myself too. Today- I listened to a great sermon in the car- got home, jotted down the points, the speaker,date, topic in the subject line and emailed myself! If God shares something special to my heart, I have a file called “sweet somethings” to keep a record of those too. If the Lord tells me to do something, I can email the list to myself as well. Often times “life” speaks and I think- wow.. wouldn’t that make a great illustration- but if I’m not working on that subject- I will forget it before I get around to it. If that happens now, I can put the topic in the subject, email and file under illustrations or analogies.

Another thing I like about Gmail is the Gmail Docs. I can create a document- like a word document and journal every day. I also love the google reader feature as well. I signed up for a few sites that I frequently go to and subscribed for the rss feeder- so that devotions come right to me! And the calendar feature is cool if I ever want to schedule fasting periods, or set other spiritual goals.

Maybe this sounds complicated and I’m sure there is probably software out there for this- but I needed help with organizing my personal study and writing ministry. And.. please know that I’m not sharing this to sound spiritual. God knows I’m not- I have so many faults and short-comings. It’s just that I’m really serious about my relationship with God and I want it to be the best it possibly can. Maybe this method could help you too, so I thought I would share!
Oh yeah- and the picture up there is me in my favorite study spot- my back porch! If you have any tips to share, please feel free to help me!!! Have a BLESSED week!

Beauty Inside And OUT!

The mission of Rhonda Frye Music Ministries is to lead people into a reconciled, relevant and real relationship with God through Jesus Christ. I’ve tried to use all the gifts & talents I have in the areas of writing/singing and teaching to spread the important message of “RELATIONSHIP with God.” Just like any ministry- it is VERY expensive to begin from scratch and also to maintain. There are cost in the areas of recording & promoting not to mention equipment and supplies. And expenses to come- I have many hopes and dreams too! I have notes and the outline ready for a book, I’m DYING to finish recording an album with my family and I would sooooooo love to write Children’s music/preschool album and curriculum. My mind goes 10000 mph with things I want to accomplish- but money- or lack of it I should say is an issue… So…..

I had first thought I would join Mary Kay simply because I’ve always loved the products- and with mine and Ally’s consumption- I would be better off selling Mary Kay just to get the discounts… So- I signed up with the intention of doing just that… but- ya know.. It would be sooooo crazy for me to not offer these products and use any income to help out with ministry costs! I would love to be able to put back every single penny I earn ministering- right back into my ministry…Every thing I would earn from Mary Kay would support my family- and everything I earn while ministering would go toward ministry…So… What I’m saying is this…

If you would like to help me further my ministry and you wear make-up, use skin products or need gifts- HELLO.. I’m Rhonda Frye, Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant! lol Also- if you’re interested in having a party or just want a “one one facial” or help with make-up application- I can do that too… Since I’m a “performer”- I’m also learning about make up application for photo-shoots and stage performance…If you need help with a make-over for album cover or special event- I’d love to help!

One of the coolest things is my Mary Kay Website.. It is so much fun! There is actually a section for you to upload your own picture and try make-overs. The website is amazing… You can place orders online 24/7 with no shipping charges and can actually have items gift wrapped too… So… If you are willing to let me supply your outward beauty needs- it will help me teach people about TRUE beauty! I love this verse: Proverbs 27:19 “Just as water mirrors your face, so your face mirrors your heart.” The heart condition reflects true beauty- but come on- we’re still gonna wear our lipstick!

Mary Kay offers a gazillion amazing skin care products too… So.. CHECK out my Mary Kay website at: marykay.com/rhondafrye And.. Let me know if I can help you in any way! The website has great trend/fashion news too!

Friday night, May 13th at 7:00, I will be hosting and singing at a benefit concert to help the tornado victims of Ringgold GA. The money colleced will be used primarily to help Ringgold residents re-build their homes.

I will be singing with LoveSong Trio and we are really excited to have The Shadrix Trio and The Greesons singing too! Jason McCay will emcee- so we’re looking to have a great time in the Lord as we raise money for Ringgold. The concert will be at Covenant Life Worship Center in Chickamauga. For more information, contact Corey Groce at 423-653-5169 or email me at pastorrhonda@heismyrock.com.

If you can’t attend and would like to donate, please make checks payable to Ringgold UMC (United Methodist Church) and write on the memo line: “Ringgold Tornado Victims.” All donations are tax deductible.

Also, for more info about each group, visit “the Finishing Well” located on the home page.

Because I won awards at the state level (GCGMA), I had the opportunity to compete in Pigeon Forge for Nationals. It was truly a lot of fun, except for the 8 minutes my legs shook on stage… LOL… I crack myself up- I didn’t think I was that nervous until I took a step to walk a little…When I stepped out, my knees literally felt like jello- so I made the quick decision to stand still! ha… So, I’ve also made a decision- NO MORE CUTE BOOTS ON STAGE no matter how cute- skinny heels can’t support jello knees! But….I did receive some awards:

“Most Promising Album of the Year”This is my very first album of ALL ORIGINAL music produced by Sound Resources- producers certainly not limited to Southern Gospel or Gospel music. So- I’m taking this award as a reflection of excellence in recording quality, production and I’m feeling somewhat validated or accepted as a new songwriter. (not that I had to have that, God’s approval is enough!) I actually had an industry person to try to convince me that simply because my album wasn’t produced by “Southern Gospel producers” and because it was all originals it wouldn’t be taken seriously.. well.. actually I think the exact words were- would be tossed in the trash.. ha.. So, yeah, I sort of like this award!

“Most Promising Song-writer of the year” I received this for “Come to Me” from my album “Second Chances.” Actually, one of my favorites from the album. I’m thinkin’ this will be my next single…

“Horizon Female Vocalist of the Year, Traditional Gospel”WHAT? haha.. That’s what I said, I didn’t check that category, for sure, so I don’t know how I was judged in Traditional Gospel, but.. ok…ha!

With all that said, I am thankful- but somewhat struggling with the whole “award concept” in general. Not just this award show, but all of them in a general sense. I guess I just don’t ever want to get caught up in awards being something I seek, lose sleep over, get jealous of, strive for or spend my time trying to get instead of actually ministering… I actually have a hard time asking anyone to vote for me as if I’m the best one delivering God’s message in song??? I’m not sayin’ that’s wrong, but very awkward for me. Maybe at some point I will think all that through, but as a new artist, I struggle with it, just sayin’ what I’m feeling…This is my first experience with awards of any kind and I’m just processing the concept. Honestly, I’ve seen some pretty CRAZY things out of people… Awards- in my mind- they are what they are… Man made, man given… something that certainly I can’t take to heaven with me…And God help me, if they serve as a distraction from my effort of taking people to heaven with me. As it is, I am grateful for what I’ve received, but I want to make sure that I never get to the place of being disapointed, jealous, upset or even compare myself to others if I don’t get any. The truth is, there are many gospel artist out there serving faithfully- singing their hearts out, sacrificing for the Kingdom of God. The REAL Award show is yet to come!! I want to stay secure in that I’m doing exactly what God has asked of me whether that makes me popular or not… And …I want to always remember that if I SEEK the approval of man, I may get it, but that’s all I’ll get… Surely, there’s a balance somewhere! ha…

I’m about to “burst” about my latest song adventure!!!! Hmm.. adventure or song experience? My songwriting is most certainly something that comes from God. I never know when He’s going to give me something or sometimes when He will give me the “rest” of it. I’ve learned to never rush Him- and just take and run with what He gives me. People ask me to write a song about “this” or “that”- I’m simply not capable. I just write about personal experiences as God gives me the words that rhyme and the tune to go along.

A while back- went through a VERY emotionally tough time. If you’ve ever been very hurt and never saw it coming- you will “get this.” Also, during this time I had a couple of friends to be blindsided with circumstances as well. One Sunday, my pastor preached a message about how the Holy Spirit takes over and prays for us when we are so distraught we aren’t capable of even forming words. It was such a comforting message- and wah lah- the very next day God dropped the sweetest song into my heart, ear and spirit.

So far- only a few people have heard it- but for some reason they cry… along with me! I’m really excited to see how God uses my hurt to make something beautiul to comfort others.

I’m really really excited because the amazing guys at Sound Resources are making it soooo pretty…. AND.. the bestest news ever… (drum roll please)… My baby girl- Ally- well she’s 17 ha! and my hubby are singing on this song. Ally and I sound so much alike- it’s hard to tell who’s singing what part- but she is singing alto and her daddy is singing tenor. Just to give ya a sneak peek…a little bit of “What a friend we have in Jesus” is the bridge… I have to say- we sound so tight- can’t touch family harmony! I am so proud of them and can’t wait for God to bring “Frye Family Trio” into fruition some day!

I have no idea what’s next- no real plans or money- ha to do a whole album.. just takin’ what God gives me as He gives it.. Right now… One sweet song coming right up! Thank you, Jesus- it’s all about YOU!