The Collingsworth Family

Part of the Family
StowTown Records

During the first week of September, Phil Collingsworth came to the Singing News/Solid Gospel offices for some radio interviews and handed me one of the first copies of The Collingsworth Family’s StowTown Records release, “Part of the Family.” So while Phil was visiting with others in the office, I listened to this CD.

Let me see if I can describe this in one word … spiritual, emotional, scriptural, touching, exceptional, blessed, ministering! NOPE! One word just won’t do it.

Let me be as transparent as I can be. This is one of my favorite recordings of all times. It has not left my CD changer in the minivan since September. When you hear family harmony done right, it can move you in a way that not many things can.

Let me go a little further: When the family singing are your brothers and sisters in the Lord, then the Comforter reminds us just how good it is to be part of the Family.

Now I am just one middle-aged Baptist preacher, but I am not alone in my evaluation. The Collingsworth Family has filled churches and auditoriums to capacity all over America in the last several years when they come by for a concert. They have gained many loyal supporters who value their music.

Being part of the family called Collingsworth raises an expectation of excellence. Phil and Kim’s kids are at a point of maturity where producer Wayne Haun can trust all of them with songs like “I Found It All” and “Just Another Rainy Day.” Where Brooklyn and Courtney have both developed masterfully in years past, Phil Jr. and Olivia have stepped up on “Part of the Family.” “Tell the Mountain” may become Phil Jr.’s signature song where “I Pray” may do the same for Olivia. Of course, Phil, Kim, Brooklyn and Courtney set the mark high with a perfect selection of songs that perfectly fit The Collingsworth Family personality. If you are not yet a fan, this record will seal it for you. Enjoy!