“The Singer’s Singer,” My Gospel Roots from Gene Watson

Referred to as “The Singer’s Singer,”, Gene Watson still sings in the same key as 30 years ago and his powerful voice and multi-octave range allows him to sing some of the most challenging songs with an ease that comes from pure, natural talent as well as from his many years performing onstage presenting country music. The 74 year- old Watson once again proves he’s the master of classic country music.  He remains defiantly country in the face of today’s more pop oriented offerings and is proud his legions of fans rely on him to keep traditional country music alive and well.

About the Album

Watson is closing out 2017 with the release of his second Gospel album, My Gospel Roots. With thirteen tracks that are dear to Watson,  “This Gospel CD has been a special one for me. I really thought long and hard on which songs I wanted to record, keeping in mind many of the songs that my family and I sang in our little church with my parents leading us in song at the pulpit.” The album has a few new songs along with many classics you’ll know and enjoy. Watson’s versions of each song is full of excellent country-gospel singing. “The singer’s Singer” again delivers his singing with passion, emotion, expression and clear diction. The background vocals are wonderful. Dirk Johnson was the session leader and producer.

Our Favorite Track

Our favorite track is “Old Roman Soldier.” Watson’s delivery is flawless. His warm vocal tone and clear diction makes this track a joy to listen to and add the top notch backing players and singers and you have a winner! Watson’s range is full and robust throughout and he is able to control his tone and intonation. Keeping country-gospel alive and well, Watson is refreshing and such a pleasure to listen to and you will, again and again. The promotional single, ‘Old Roman Soldier’ gives a voice to one of the soldiers present at the Crucifixion. A somber story with an inspirational twist, it is beautifully delivered by Watson, and ornamented by beautiful harmonies from Carl Jackson and the bluegrass singer Val Storey. Simply Wonderful.

In Conclusion

This is a superb album of excellent songs by one of the genre’s all time great golden voices of country-gospel music. The arrangements, writing, playing and backing singing is excellent. The 13-track record brings the pure, organic country sound that Watson is famous for to gospel songs that he grew up with. If you like country-gospel this is a must have!