A New Era of Harmony: The Kingdom Heirs Rebuild and Reignite with No Better Time
For Dollywood’s legendary Southern Gospel group, The Kingdom Heirs, 2023 marked a year of unexpected transformation. Reflecting on their journey in the liner notes of No Better Time, the group acknowledges, “In our 40-plus years of ministry, we had never seen anything quite like it.” Within just six months, three of the group’s four lead vocalists had departed, leaving the Heirs with the unprecedented challenge of replacing their frontline while maintaining the rich harmonies their fans know and love. The addition of a new guitar player further broadened their sound, and the release of three singles ahead of the album proved that despite the rapid changes, the Kingdom Heirs were still the powerhouse group Dollywood audiences had come to cherish. The new album is a testament to their resilience, their adaptability, and, as they humbly note, “a miracle from God.”
No Better Time showcases the group’s ability to blend classic Southern Gospel energy with fresh, contemporary touches. From the opening notes of “The Lord’s Been Good to Me,” which brims with classic piano and an upbeat spirit, to the reflective “Yesterday, Today, Forever Faithful,” the album highlights the unique contributions of each member, who were deeply involved in the creative process. Gratitude fills their notes as they acknowledge the songwriters, friends, and family who stood by them through these transitions. “Without each one of you…this ministry would be nothing more than a bunch of guys playing music,” they affirm. This new chapter of The Kingdom Heirs not only reinforces their timeless message of faith but also reveals the incredible support system that fuels their enduring ministry.