November 2003 ~ Featuring Gary Toney
Shortly after I joined the Dixie Echoes in 1998, we were in concert with a group from Texas called the Toney Brothers. Since that time we have been on several of the same programs as them. The two brothers in the group are Terry and Gary Toney. Terry Toney and my boss, Randy Shelnut, have been friends for many years, so every time we would work with the Toney Brothers, Randy and Terry could be found together. Our bass singer, Billy Todd, would spend his time with Bob Toney (Terry and Gary's dad). This left Gary and myself getting to know each other. We soon became good friends, and would find ourselves sharing stories over supper after the concerts. I always look forward to working with the Toney Brothers, not only because they are good friends, but they also have a great sounding quartet! This month I would like for you to learn more about this group and their baritone singer Gary Toney.

Gary Toney was born on May 18, 1959. He is the youngest son of Bob and Connie Toney. Gary has one brother named Terry, and one younger sister, Cassandra. He is originally from Detroit, Michigan, but now lives in Allen, Texas, with his wife LaDonna. Gary and LaDonna have two children. They have a 19-year-old daughter, Kelsey, and a 14-year-old son, Clint. Gary was saved in 1965 at home with his family, while watching a Billy Graham crusade on television. His mom and dad led him to the Lord. His home church is now First Baptist Church of Allen, Texas.

Gary collects old albums and old quartet memorabilia. He also enjoys golfing when he can find the time. His biggest influences are his father, the late Bob Toney, and his Grandfather, the late Rev. Jay Boyd Davis. Some of Gary's duties with the Toney Brothers include scheduling the dates, handling the administrative duties, working the product table, and he drives the bus only as needed.

The Toney Brothers started singing as a part-time group in 1955. When Gary was eighteen years old, his father's company transferred him out of state. Gary began singing in the group due to his dad's absence. His dad later came back to the group and just traveled and sang when he wanted. The Toney Brothers started traveling full time in 1997. In just a short time, they have become a fan favorite across the country. They have experienced lots of success on Southern Gospel Radio. Their most recent hit titled "Mercy Came Down" peaked at number 12 in the charts. Their latest release to radio is called "We're Not Gonna Do It". Be sure to call your local radio station and request this great song by the Toney Brothers.

Gary had a story to share with all of the U.S. Gospel News readers. A while back, the Toney Brothers were riding down the interstate and Gary was in the drivers seat. At the time they had a 35-foot bus, which had only one axle in the back of the bus. The driver's side rear wheels broke at the axle, forcing the bus to collide with the ground and tearing open an airline. This caused no air pressure; therefore they had no air brakes. Gary was unable to stop the bus, and the wheels that broke off soon passed the bus. The wheels traveled into a pasture and chased some horses around the field until they came to a stop. With a look of panic on his face, Gary shouted at the guys in the back to see what they thought he should do. The guys were all busy watching college football on television. Having no brakes was of no concern to them. Finally the bus came to a rest, perfectly parallel parked on the shoulder of the road. Gary says that this is just one more example that even in the face of unknown circumstances, God is still in control!

If you have internet access, you can visit the Toney Brothers online at www.toneybrothers.com to see the most up to date information on the group. Gary and Terry Toney have succeeded in keeping a top-notch quartet on the road. Their current line-up is one of there best. Gary and Terry handle the bottom two parts. Gary is a very solid baritone singer and has a wonderful solo voice. Gary also plays the guitar on occasion with the group. Terry is quite an impressive bass singer, with a smooth and very low voice. They have a dynamic young lead singer by the name of Jake Sammons. Jake has been with the Toney Brothers for over 3 ½ years. Jonathan Pennington sings tenor and is the newest member of the group. Playing piano is a young Seminole Indian named Rick Carpitcher. If you would like to book the Toney Brothers to come to your church or event, call their office toll free at 888-390-1452. Go see them when they are in your area, and pick up some of their music.