Considering his hit records, industry awards and the prestigious venues in which he’s played, country/gospel singer Allen Karl could definitely be considered a star. While that’s all well and good, Allen says there’s been a much more special reward for making music these days. It has to do with a deep sense of knowing he’s using his God-given talents to illuminate the great love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Allen says that accomplishment is by far the one he’s most happy about and grateful for.
“A song that I’m going to sing and record has to stir up emotions in me and make me feel closer to God or I won’t do it,” said Karl, who recently released his fourth studio CD “There’s No Place Like Home.” “I know that when I feel it deeply in my heart, my audiences will be uplifted and inspired, too. That’s what singing gospel music is all about. “
Allen’s desire to sing for God shines through every note on his new CD. The project features 16 glorious gospel tunes with a traditional flair.
Along the with the title track, others are: “Who Am I?” “How Long Has It Been?” “Til You Start Walking,” “Then I Met The Master,” “Mansion Over The Hilltop,” “He Washed My Eyes With Tears,” “No One Every Cared For Me (Like Jesus),” “It’s No Secret,” “There Is A River,” “Why Me,” “Some Golden Daybreak,” “The Old Rugged Cross,” “His Hand In Mine,” “I’ll Never Be Lonely Again,” “We Call On Him.”
“There’s No Place Like Home” marks the debut of Karl’s first CD of all gospel songs. For over 30 years, the silken-voiced troubadour built an impressive career as a country music artist and amassed a loyal International fan base. Along with appearing at the Nashville Palace and the Grand Ole Opry, Allen also has been a guest on television programs such as, “Tenessee Hayride,” “The Opryland Staircase Lounge,” “The Appalachian Jubilee” and “Wolf’s TV Spotlight Show.”
In 2008, his single “Nobody Loves Here Anymore,” reached No. 1 on the “Top 40 List of Independent Country Songs.” Other chart-toppers include: “My Final Rose,” and “Holding On To What’s Left Of What’s Right.”
Karl, who is part Cherokee, says he has a calm assurance that “There’s No Place Like Home” also will be successful.
“I’ve been wanting to record a Christian album for so long because I love gospel music and I love the Lord,” said Karl, who is an inductee in the Old Time Country Music Hall of Fame and the Native American Hall of Fame. “When the timing was right, I found the songs and everything came together. It’s been the opportunity of a lifetime.”
For Karl, the chance to follow his beloved music came by way of performing live the popular radio program “Willies’ Whistle Show” in his hometown of Pottsville, PA. He was in his teens at the time and dazzled audiences with his skillful guitar playing and passionate vocal delivery.
At the age of 17, Karl won a recording contract from King Records in a local talent competition. Soon, he was opening for popular artists of the day: Jeannie Shephard, Hawkshaw Hawkins, Wanda Jackson and Patsy Cline.
From there, Allen went on to become the lead singer for The Dixieland Playboys, who opened for Johnny Cash, Julie London and Jimmy Rodgers. He eventually struck out on his own as a solo artist and has been touring and recording ever since.
Currently, Karl is gearing up for a U.S. tour to promote “There’s No Place Like Home.” He says he is looking forward to seeing the CD take flight and make a positive and profound impact around the world.
But regardless of how much attention, awards or accolades it may bring, Allen’s priorities remain firmly intact.
“I keep myself in check and always keep in mind that it’s the Lord who makes a way for me to do what I do,” said Karl. “Once a person loses his or her humility, they’ve pretty much lost the ballgame."
Visit Allen at: www.allenkarlproductionsllc.com
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