The name of Karen Peck has become synonymous with Southern Gospel Music. Her flawless, delightful soprano voice has made its way into the hearts of Gospel Music lovers across the country and garnered an unprecedented 11 Favorite Soprano Fan Awards from the readers of The Singing News Magazine, Southern Gospel Music's leading fan and trade publication.

The youngest of three daughters, Karen was exposed to the traditional sounds of Gospel Music at a very early age. Her parents often took Karen and her sisters, Susan and Sandra, to the all night sing in Atlanta, and these sings left an indelible mark on the youngsters, who made a pact to someday share a musical ministry of their very own.

One of the groups often featured at the Atlanta concerts was The LeFevres, who later became known as The Nelons. It would be a mild understatement to say that Karen had aspirations of singing with this talented musical family. In fact, this aspiration became her greatest desire.

In 1981 this dream became a reality when Karen was invited to travel with her favorite group. She remained with The Nelons for 10 years, gaining the respect of industry peers and fans alike with her exceptional vocal ability and caring personality.

Finally, in 1991, the realization of yet another dream came to pass as Karen and sister Susan, with Karen's husband, Rickey, organized the musical entourage of Karen Peck & New River. With the assistance of a third vocalist, David White, and several very talented musicians, New river has established their place at the forefront of Southern Gospel Music.

During the past eight years, New River has enjoyed many individual and group honors and accolades. In addition to many awards Karen has achieved, Susan has received Favorite Alto nominations five years in a row from subscribers of The Singing News Magazine, and the New River band, led by original bass guitarist David Owen, has enjoyed numerous Favorite Band nominations from the same popular publication. Hit releases have flowed their way in bunches, with such popular tunes to their credit as their Number One hit, "God Likes to Work," as well as "Daddy's Home," "He's Sending Miracles" and their latest, "God Says You Can.". New River has been featured on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry, as well as Opryland theme Park, Dollywood and Six Flags Over Georgia.

In addition to Karen, Susan, lead vocalist David White and bass guitarist David Owen, New River is comprised of drummer Dale Scragg, pianist Craig Nobles and guitarist Joel Key. Karen's husband Rickey serves as the group's road manager and sound technician. The musical combination created by New River has proven to be a winning one, as the group offers audiences musical versatility and diversity. New River sets a new standard for musical perfection with rich vocal harmony soaring over a solid instrumental foundation that is shaded with the sophistication of Southern Gospel, country and bluegrass sounds.

Eight years ago, at the onset of their formation, New River accepted the challenge of providing encouragement to listeners by performing quality music with an eternal message. Today New River stands not only as a talented and successful recording artist, but more importantly, effective messengers of the Gospel.

(Biography courtesy of Karen Peck & New River's Official Website)

http://karenpeck.tripod.com

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