In 1978, Mayson Easterling (’72), then director of admissions at North Greenville College, hired Mike Baker (’71) as an admissions counselor. Together they started Joyful Sound, a vocal ensemble that has led worship in more than 3,500 concerts in the past 30 years, the vast majority in South Carolina Baptist churches.
Joyful Sound in 1978 –Now directed by Steve Crouse and managed by Easterling, there are three Joyful Sound teams, a band, sound technicians and alternates – for a total of 47 students involved with the ministry.
The teams rehearse together during the week and head in three different directions on the weekends to minister in more than 225 churches during the academic year. Each team member receives a substantial scholarship from the university. They release a CD each year, which is produced with funds provided by Mr. and Mrs. Joe Hayes Sr.
Baker selected the first group in the spring of 1978, beginning with eight members. They had no outfits, sound equipment, or scholarships. They shared the two college vans with the athletic department. The ministry was able to get off the ground because David Wells (’80) provided sound equipment along with a trailer and a van to carry it to their venues.
While many of the circumstances have changed, much of what makes the music ensemble of the NGU Baptist Student Union (BSU) successful remains the same.
The close bonds between the group members has led to lifelong friendships.
“Joyful Sound has been a tremendous opportunity to build strong, godly friendships,” said current member Meagan Williams (’09). “My Joyful Sound team has served as a refuge during a very difficult family situation. Having the prayers and support of my team members has been such an encouragement.”
While Joyful Sound has been like family for many, for some it actually is family. Brothers, sisters and cousins have been part of the ensemble. Second-generation Joyful Sound members are becoming a reality. Alice Hinds Witt (’80), the granddaughter of former North Greenville president M.C. Donnan, was a member of the first team.
– and today.For a significant number, the ministry led directly to marriage. Jody Jennings (’01) and Emily Boitnott Jennings (’00) were one of the couples who found love in Joyful Sound. “Joyful Sound encouraged me to grow in my personal relationship with God, and I believe that was the number one factor in our growth as a couple,” said Jody. “Keeping Jesus at the center of our relationship was paramount, and Joyful Sound played a role in helping us do that.”
Emily agreed the ministry was helpful to their relationship. “It helped prevent the temptation to be selfish with our time,” Emily said. “We could not be solely focused on one another because so much of our time was spent ministering with Joyful Sound. That made the time we spent together as a couple more meaningful.”
Today, Joyful Sound alumni serve God in all walks of life: as business people, stay-at-home mothers, school teachers, pastors, church planters, music evangelists and Christian music artists.
Michael Lord, a member of Joyful Sound from 1991-93, formed LordSong, a successful Christian music group. He credits much of his current success to his time in the North Greenville ensemble. Some of the lessons learned have been practical for a traveling musician. “I was the sound man my first year in Joyful Sound,” said Lord. “The sound system was so old, I had to duct tape the snake to the back of the board so it would not short out during the concert. Every concert brought a new adventure in sound repair that I still use to this day.”
Lord still carries much of what he learned from Joyful Sound with him in his current ministry. “Joyful Sound taught me to love the fun parts of ministry, while opening my eyes to the hard work and sacrifice needed to grow a ministry like LordSong,” said Lord.
Memories made by the 262 former and current members will be on display on Friday, April 4, as Joyful Sound celebrates 30 years.
Easterling and the office of denominational relations hope that as many Joyful Sound alumni as possible will take part in the reunion concert, which will begin at 7 pm. For former members wishing to participate, sectional rehearsals are earlier in the day from 1:30 until 5. Following an informal dinner, group rehearsals will start at 6:15.
A love offering will be received, which will go toward the purchase of a new bus for the ministry. Easterling expressed appreciation to Julie Parker Styles (’90), current NGU trustee, and her husband Ben for their gift of $20,000 toward this purchase.
NGU president Jimmy Epting is pleased with how Joyful Sound has been used by God since the group was founded. “God must be so very proud of the ministry of Joyful Sound because of the significant number of people who have become Christians through their efforts,” said Epting. “It thrills my heart to know that they have represented Jesus Christ and North Greenville University so well over the years. They have certainly helped us to be true to our slogan at North Greenville University – a place where Christ makes the difference.”
For more information, call (864) 977-7075 or e-mail Andrea Fisher at amfisher@ngu.edu.