On the evening of May 9, 2018, Karen Peck Gooch of Karen Peck and New River was inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame, during a star-studded ceremony. The evening was also a fund raiser for the Hall of Fame.
Karen Peck Gooch has been singing gospel music for 30 years, received many nominations and awards, traveled around the world with her music, and yet still retains humility and a sweet spirit that draws just as many fans as her beautiful voice.
Ed Leonard introducing Karen Peck Gooch at the GMA Hall of Fame honors. (Chip Woods Photography)
Karen wrote this on her Facebook page following the ceremony. “Tonight was a highlight of my career. Special thanks to Ed Leonard for presenting me with the GMA Induction. Special thanks to The Isaacs and Jason Crabb for singing for me. (They were incredible!) Special thanks to Jackie Patillo and the GMA for being a friend to all of us! It was awesome having Rickey Gooch, Matthew Gooch, Kari Gooch, Susan Peck Jackson, David Jackson, Sue Peck Music, Bill Music, Kelly Nelon Clark, Grant Gibson sitting at my table. Peggy G. Fauscett, Pamela Cooper Unthank, Harper Agency, Daywind Music, NQC, and so many fellow artists were there to support me and I will never forget it! I love every one of you! Thanks to Chip Woods for the amazing pictures and Megan Clark for doing our makeup!
Karen Peck and New River
“I am so thankful to the Lord for allowing me to live my dream. 38 years ago I started singing professionally. I will forever be grateful to Alphus LeFevre and Rex Nelon for their incredible leadership and for their love for the Lord and this great music. I pray that the Lord will give me many more years of service to Him! Our best days are ahead!”
I'm so glad that the Lord has had his hand upon this precious soul, the group and more specifically her family!!! Thank you for keeping it real, if there is one thing that gospel music needs, that's more people that are spirit filled when they take the stage. People are hurting so bad and they need the gospel, thank you for always putting your hurts on hold when you take the stage to help those in the crowd. We Love you. Pastor Robert and Michelle Vines from Conyers Ga.