Pennsylvania singer Neil Enloe attended his induction into the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame at Dollywood recently in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
“Southern Gospel performer and songwriter Neil Enloe was destined to become one of the most influential performers in our industry,” said Charlie Waller, SGMA executive director. “Through his more than 40 years with the Couriers based in Harrisburg, Penn. , the Couriers became one of the best-known and most respected groups in Southern gospel."
“Several of his songs have become standards, most notably “Statue of Liberty,” the Dove Award winning song from 1976,” he said.
Enloe, who is originally from Illinois, said God called him to service in his youth.
“I am grateful God has kept me in music for 50 something years now,” he said. “This has not been a solo journey for me. I have been with the same group for 50 something years now, with two of my buddies - Dave Kyllonen and Duane Nicholson. They have just a big a part of this as I have.”
He also dedicated the honor to his spouse.
“My wife Ruthie has been both Mom and Dad while I was on the road,” he said. “I could not have done this without you. You are the great love of my life. My three kids are here with their spouses. I am overwhelmed, honored and grateful.”
For more information, visit www.neilenloe.com.
The other 2009 SGMA class of inductees are Ed Hill, Harold Lane, Don Light, Bill Lyles, Elizabeth "Lady" Mull, Billy Todd and Charlie Waller.
Country Music Hall of Famer Barbara Mandrell received the James D. Vaughn Impact Award.
The Southern Gospel Music Association is a non-profit organization that maintains the Southern Gospel Museum and Hall of Fame, the only facility honoring this genre of music, for the historic preservation of the accomplishments of the music and its people. Museum hours match those of Dollywood. Donations are tax-deductible. Individuals and businesses may donate to assist with honoring inductees with special bronze plaques that are displayed in the Hall of Fame. For more information about the museum or its inductees, visit www.sgma.org.
