Brothers Forever is based out of Church Hill, Tennessee. Nestled in the foothills of upper East Tennessee, this group has quickly become known for their unique style of southern gospel music. Songs such as "I Feel a Blessing Coming On" and "I Can’t Forget the Day" have become nationwide favorites. Brothers Forever felt the call to the music ministry a little over a few years ago, and since the group’s inception, it has been an exciting journey. - What is the history of your ministry? Where did you begin? Why did you choose this path of ministry?
- Brothers Forever began in 2004 organized by Curtis Hagy. Gary Ballew joined in 2006 coming from Modesto, California. Chris Higginbottom arrived in 2008 from San Diego, California. The group has 2 offices in Gate City, Virginia and Kingsport, Tennessee. God put this current group together starting in 2006. I (Gary) moved my family from California completely by faith. My family and I left our jobs and sold our house because God called us to Tennessee to sing with this group. Genesis 12 is our story. It has not been easy, but God has been 100% faithful!
- Who are some of your major musical influences? Why do they affect you the way they do?
Some of our major musical influences are the Imperials, Boyz 2 Men, Russ Taff, BeBe and CeCe Winans, Booth Brothers, Gaither Vocal Band, Fred Hammond, and Michael English. All three of us LOVE Black Gospel/ R&B music. Each of us as artists are passionate singers, and you can feel that in our delivery and song selection. We hope to make that kind of an impact in our presentation and our concerts with our fans too.
- Who has been your biggest spiritual influence?
My father Rev. Ron Ballew and my mother Connie Ballew have impacted my walk with Christ like no others. My mom is an intercessor/ prayer warrior/ worship leader and my dad is a dynamic pastor/preacher. I served with them for 10 years as Associate Pastor/Music Minister. They have taught me volumes about people and working in the ministry. The powerful evangelist Smith Wigglesworth has also been a big influence on both Curtis and I in regards to being a great 'man of faith'.
- How many dates to you do per year? What kind of venues do you sing at?
We do approximately 120-135 dates per year. We sing primarily at churches, but also at festivals, fairs, conferences, revivals, campmeetings, and conventions.
- Are you involved in other areas of ministry besides music?
Yes, Curtis and I are ministers as well and we both preach at many of our concerts/services. We are also Compassion Artists sponsored by Compassion International aiding children with food, clothes, education and shelter.
- Where do you see your ministry in the next 10 years?
Hopefully, still leading many people to Christ, making the best music we possibly can, and telling more people about the greatest message in the world. Jesus Christ is STILL the answer and the only hope for a dying world.
- Talk a little bit about your current project and/or single.
Our national release is titled, "Sheltered". Our current single is "Whenever I Speak His Name". This was written by our hero Russ Taff and his wife Tori. It's a beautiful worship song!
- How can people reach you for a concert or ministry service?
Our website is www.brothersforever.net. You can also call 423-292-5989 or
423-292-6761 and ask for Curtis or Gary. We are also on Facebook and MySpace.