Country Singer Chris McDaniel Releases First Gospel Album 'The Good Lord, Family & Friends'
Country music singer Chris McDaniel releases his first gospel album, “The Good Lord, Family & Friends,” a mix of classic and newly written songs that he found himself drawn to during a time of personal hardship. The album was produced by Lee Bogan (Joe Diffie, Bill Medley, Oak Ridge Boys, Ronnie McDowell), who also contributed harmonies, guitar and banjo. “The Good Lord, Family & Friends” is available on all major streaming services via StarVista Music.
What first started out as a country album unexpectedly grew into a gospel collection when longtime friend Ronnie McDowell suggested McDaniel record “Don’t Give Up on Me Jesus,” a rare track of McDowell’s that had never officially been released. “I think he knew it spoke to where I was at right at that moment,” recalls McDaniel. “I’d been leaning toward my faith a bit more than usual. My wife had been going through a lot of medical issues and our faith has kept us strong amidst all of that so I found myself being drawn to gospel songs.” Shortly after, Bogan wrote “Give ‘Em Grace” and asked McDaniel to record it.
The album also features a cover of Hank Williams’ “I Saw the Light,” “Something About That Name (The Gaithers Vocal Band) and Reba McEntire’s number one hit, “Seven Minutes in Heaven.” “I wouldn't normally record a song that’s been released so recently,” McDaniel explains. “But my dad passed away about five months ago and hit us all hard. I woke up the day after his passing and heard ‘Seven Minutes in Heaven’ for the first time and it moved me so much that I felt compelled to sing it. It’s been such a source of strength.”
“Recording these songs of faith-based music really helped me through a difficult time,” he continues. “I had goosebumps throughout the whole recording process. I hope that those who listen to it will receive what I have...direction, peace and songs that can help get you through day.”
Chris McDaniel is known for his country radio favorites Imagine Me and I Keep Telling You Heart, both written by Eric Horner, former band member for Lee Greenwood. Over the years Chris has shared the stage with such legends as Ronnie McDowell, T. Graham Brown and Tanya Tucker, just to name a few.
