After many albums and awards with the Gaither Vocal Band, Guy Penrod has returned to country music, but is still delivering one moving message after another. He will perform for the Golden Belt Community Concert Association at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17, in the Great Bend Municipal Auditorium, Lakin and Stone.

This event is available to concert association members. Full-time students will be admitted to the concert for a $5 donation at the door. The auditorium will open at 6:30 p.m.

Penrod built his career as a major voice in Nashville – first as an in-demand session singer, and later, on center stage as a major name in Southern gospel with the Gaither Vocal Band. Making 14 albums and earning two Grammys and multiple Dove Awards in 14 years with the Gaither Band, he now is determined to continue sharing his values and world view, only this time through country music.

Adding a collection of original country songs to his gospel repertoire, Penrod conveys through his music a strong and positive message that is fresh and different. "I believe country is one of the best genres of music for telling the American story," he says. "A country song can tell a story with a potential for the positive. Songs can literally become modern-day parables on how to live life … not my answers, but God’s way – wrapped in everyday language with a country feel."

Barry Jennings, president of the Gaither Music Group, says Penrod brings together faith and family in his musical performances.