© Copyright Somebody Productions
At the Southern Gospel Music Forum we have been reviewing Danny Riddle’s music
for quite a while. However, this is my first time to review one of his CD’s. This new
project is packed full of music including sixteen songs of varying styles and subjects.
The project begins with a slow and beautiful melody titled “Two Heart In Love.” The
song is also the inspiration for the title of the project which is “The Hands Of Time.”
The tempo picks up next as Danny sings “Keep Me On The Mountain,” a great song
asking God to keep us on the mountain and never let us go! “I Was The One” is a
beautiful song about the crucifixion of Christ that tells a compelling story from the
perspective of the one who made the crown of the thorns. The next song is titled
“Forever Loved” and I know I have heard this song before but I am not sure where. It
reminds us that God will never leave us and we are forever loved.
“God Picked Another Flower” is the next song on the project and, as you might guess
by the title, it talks of God calling another of His Children to Heaven. The old spiritual
“Angels Watching Over Me” is next and it is an enjoyable arrangement of this great
old song that reminds us that God’s Angels are always watching over me. “You’re
The Song I Sing” is a great song of encouragement and I know this song will bless
many people who are struggling with trials in their life. “Gonna Walk” makes a
proclamation that we will walk a little closer with our Lord! It is a fun, upbeat song that
is very enjoyable.
Danny co-wrote the next song with Cindy Skinner-James. “Ready Or Not” is the title
of this song and it does a great job reminding us that Christ is coming back again,
ready or not so please be born again and be ready! “Stop Look And Listen” was the
not the song I expected! I was expecting the old Southern Gospel Classic but this is
another upbeat song that is very enjoyable. The next song is “I Was There” and this
song reminds us that God has always been there for every event in history and in our
lives. “There’s A Better Home” this song simply reminds us that there is a better
home in the Christian’s future!
“Turn It Around” reminds us that God can turn around any life or any circumstance in
our life. An old Albert Brumley classic is next as Danny sings “He Set Me Free.” I
have not heard this song in a while and I love hearing this great song again. “He’s
Alive” is a song that has been around for a long time in all Gospel Music circles.
Danny does a good job singing this very powerful song. “Take These Reins” is the
final full song on this project and it is a wonderful ending to a very good project. The
final track on the project is a reprise of “I Was The One.”
I mentioned that the Southern Gospel Music Forum has reviewed several of Danny’s
projects in the past. In preparation for this review, I went back and read some of them
and listened to some of the CD’s. This CD is very similar to those and is a very good
project. It has 16 songs, which is nearly unheard of on a project of new songs. You
will enjoy all of the songs. My favorite songs from the project are “You’re The Song I
Sing,” “Gonna Walk” and “He Set Me Free.” The entire project is very good and I
recommend that you get a copy for yourself! For more information on Danny Riddle,
visit his website at www.dannyriddle.com.
Music News Nashville
Project Review "Here Today"
2009
Reviewer: Chuck Dauphin
Fans of Southern Gospel music may remember Danny Riddle as a young artist in that
field. He definitely had success in it, while also embarking on a radio career that saw
him host the successful Gospel show Reach Out. His new recording once again sees
him plowing new ground, while trying to change lives via his music ministry.
He doesn't get heavy with his music or lay the preaching on too much, so when he
does…you know it's from the heart, like he does on the lament "Here Today, Gone
Tomorrow." These are definitely words to live by, and he performs them quite well. He
then turns to the light and easy sounds of "One More Mountain To Climb" as well as
the exceptional song "The Potter."
There are sixteen great performances on this project, and Riddle just has a way with
them that you feel like you're having a conversation with an old friend. He gives a new
sound to classics like "Are You Washed In The Blood" and "Power In The Blood," and
makes you sing along with tunes like "Brush Arbor Meeting." With his energetic
approach to making records, I bet he is one amazing act to see live! Fans of Southern
Gospel will really appreciate this warm and moving collection!
Southern Gospel Music Forum
Project Review
"Old Time Religion"
October 2009
Reviewer: Scott Evans
Danny Riddle has been a long time supporter of the Southern Gospel Music Forum.
We have reviewed a number of projects over the years and have enjoyed all of them.
This project from Danny is actually an older one but we somehow missed it and
thought it was time to review it.
The project is a great collection of old hymns and songs. The project begins with the
title song "Old Time Religion." A great song and nice effort from Danny. "Put Your
Hand In The Hand" is the next song and it was great to hear that old song again. The
great song of "Precious Memories" is next reminding all of the listeners of the great
precious memories in our lives. "Don't Be Afraid" is the next song and I very much
enjoyed the song as it reminds us that God is always by our side. "Peace In The
Valley" is a true classic and Danny does a nice job on the song next.
"Oh I Want To See Him" is an awesome song and I love Danny's version on this
project! "Old Gospel Ship" is the next song on the project as the parade of old
favorites continues. A great old hymn is next as Danny sings "The Old Rugged Cross."
It is always great to hear that great, old hymn. One of my favorite songs while I was
growing up "Just Over In The Glory land." I really enjoyed hearing this song again and
it brought back many good memories.
Another old hymn of the church is next with "Blessed Assurance." "First Day In
Heaven" is the next song on the project and I am not sure that I have ever heard a
soloist sing this song. Danny does a great job though and I really enjoyed it. One of
the classic songs in Southern Gospel Music is next and Danny's version of "I Bowed
On My Knees" is right up there with the best I have ever heard. "I Saw The Light" is
next and Danny brings a rousing performance to this song The final song on the
project is one of my all time favorite hymns and Danny sings "It Is Well With My Soul"
very well.
This project is nothing short of awesome! The song selection includes many classic
songs in Southern Gospel Music and several hymns of the church. The end result is a
project filled with fourteen favorite songs that have been blessing people for years and
thanks to Danny will continue to bless many people.
My favorite songs from the project are:
"Don't Be Afraid"
"Oh I Want To See Him"
"The Old Rugged Cross"
The entire project is great and if you love the old songs you should get a copy!
For more information on Danny Riddle, visit his website at www.dannyriddle.com.
I believe this is the third Danny Riddle CD that we have reviewed here at the SG
Music Forum. We have come to expect quality recordings from Danny and his latest
recording does not disappoint. "Here Today" is a nice collection of 16 songs, all of
which are very enjoyable.
The title song is first up on the CD and "Here Today Gone Tomorrow" reminds us just
how fleeting the things of this earth are. "One More Mountain To Climb" is a fast
tempo song that talks about that journey to Heaven. "I Said No" is a song that
reminds us what can happen when we say no to God. The next song is a song that
probably everyone will know. The hymn "Are You Washed In The Blood" is next and
Danny does a fine job on the song.
"Count It All Joy" has a very important message reminding us to count it a joy to go
through a trial with Christ. A truth that we all need to be reminded of on occasion.
"Lord You've Been Mighty Good To Me" is next and this song is a prayer of thanks set
to music. "That's All That Matters To Me" is a song with a wonderful message. It talks
of all of the great things we will see and find in Heaven and those will be great but all
that matters is that Jesus will be there and we will be able to look upon His face. "I
Can't Stop Loving Him" is an older song from the 1970's but the message of our Love
for God never grows old!
"Old Sinner Like Me" is a catchy tune with a good message. It asks a simple question
of is there room in Heaven for an old sinner like me? Of course, the answer is yes!
"The Potter" reminds us that God is molding each of us each and every day. "Power
In The Blood" is the next song and this old hymn is always a favorite. The next song
is a great message about how much God must love us. The title of the song is "He
Must Have Loved Me A Lot."
"New Friend" speaks of the change on the inside we experience once we become a
Christian. The next song is another old hymn and I am certain you will enjoy Danny's
version of "Just A Closer Walk." "The Outstretched Hand" is the next song and it leads
to "Brush Arbor Meeting." That song speaks of those old fashioned meeting that many
people will remember. The final track on the project is a reprise of "Here Today Gone
Tomorrow."
Danny Riddle once again delivers a solid project. There are 16 songs on the project
which is almost unheard of any more. All of the songs are strong songs and there is a
great mix of old and new songs. The vocal performances and orchestration is top
notch as is the production.
My favorite songs from the project are:
"Here Today Gone Tomorrow"
"He Must Have Loved Me A Lot"
"That's All That Matters To Me."
It's another good project from Danny who just seems to get better and better which
each new CD.
For more information on Danny Riddle
visit his website at www.dannyriddle.com.
Southern Gospel Music Forum
Project Review "Here
Today"December 2007Reviewer:
Scott Evans
Ousley Music Group
CD Review "Here Today"
October 2007
"Here Today" is the best release yet for Danny Riddle! Danny truly returns to his roots
in this project. From the opening song, "Here Today, Gone Tomorrow" written by Dick
Gaskin, you can tell this is going to be a project sung from Danny's heart. This project
features several songs written by the well known Southern Gospel songstress Dee
Gaskin and songs by many of Danny's friends. I have to confess, though...while
Danny's vocal maturity is greatly showing through on each song; I do miss the
innocence that comes from his earlier projects. However, it's great to see how Danny
has grown musically through the years.
The background instrumentation and vocals by BK Cummings are very much in sync
with the down-home styling of every song. Danny's love for Jesus and love for
Southern Gospel Music are displayed in ways I've never heard come through before
on a Danny Riddle project.
Danny has always had a passion for the heart and soul of gospel music - and this
project showcases all of his talent and passion in a very old way that's all new. Be
sure and pick up a copy of this project - I know my copy will stay close by my stereo!
Top Picks:
Here Today, Gone Tomorrow
The Potter
I Said No
Reviewer: Terry Lee Ousley / Ousley Music Group
Southern Gospel News Magazine
CD Review
"You Raise Me Up"
September 2006
This is the first time that I heard Danny Riddle and his music. I was truly blessed and
really enjoyed listening to this project. He wrote or co-wrote five of the fifteen songs
on this project. My favorite three tracks are:
"Shadow Of The Cross"
"I'm Going Up"
"We Shall See The King"
As a bonus on track 16 is an instrumental of the title song.
So, just pop this project into your player, sit back, and be prepared to be blessed! If
you get the chance to see Danny Riddle in person, be sure and go see him, as I
know you will be glad that you did.
Southern Gospel Music Forum
Project Review
"You Raise Me Up"
September 2005
Reviewer: Scott Evans
Fifteen songs! It is not often these days that you find 15 songs on one project! The
latest effort from Danny Riddle, titled "You Raise Me Up" has just that though and it is
a very enjoyable project!
The title song, "You Raise me Up" is the first cut on the project and Danny handles
this song very well. The tempo picks up with "Got My Armor On" and it's a song with a
terrific message. Danny also wrote a few of the songs on this project including "Crying
Out To Me."
"Cover Me Lord (I'm Goin' In)" the title is unique but the song, while kind of
lighthearted, has a terrific message. "Shadow Of The Cross" is a simply awesome
song! the beautiful melody and lyrics holds a very powerful message! "Let Me Live" is
another good song on this project. "Seasons Of Friendship" is another song written by
Danny. Danny also co-wrote the next song with Ralph March. "I'm Going Up" is the
title and it's a wonderful fast paced song that talks of going to Heaven!
"Here He Comes" is another beautiful song that speaks of Christ's coming back!
"You're A Big Shot" is another good one. It's a bit of a unique style of song but it's
enjoyable and the message is great. "Reap What You Sow" is followed by a beautiful
melody titled "He's Dying To Meet You."
The next song on the project written by Danny is titled "If Jesus Comes Tonight." It is a
song that has a message that will make you stop and think. It asks a very important
question and that question is "if Jesus Comes Tonight" is your name in the Book of
Life?
The tempo quickens again with "We Shall See The King." The final song on the
project is "I Wouldn't Miss It." It's done a Capella and it's a beautiful melody. Actually,
there is a bonus track on the project that is not listed on the CD jacket and it includes
a reprise of "You Raise Me Up."
Danny Riddle is a talented soloist in Southern Gospel Music. This project includes 15
songs that are all good and includes several written by Danny. The project brings
encouragement and heartfelt messages throughout it.
My favorite songs from this project are:
"I'm Going Up"
"Got My Armor On"
"Shadow Of The Cross."
The project is a good and you should check it out!
PCM CD Review
"You Raise Me Up"
March 2005
Reviewers:
Terry Lee Ousley & Judy Cassidy
“You Raise Me Up” is the latest release from Danny Riddle and Somebody
Productions. Overall, we think it is one of the best we’ve heard from Danny. With a
total of 15 tracks, he covers the gamut of style from light contemporary to his very own
special Pure Southern music. There are traditional old hymns along with brand new
songs penned by Danny (Big Shot, Crying Out To Me, Seasons Of Friendship, I’m
Going Up, and If Jesus Comes Tonight) and friends of Danny, and it is mixed with
popular favorites like the title song. He even dared to do an a Capella number (I
Wouldn’t Miss It) and pulled it off QUITE well!
Vocally this is Danny’s finest. His voice has matured and smoothed over the years –
and the confidence he has gained in his talent shows. This project also reflects the
best choice of variety we’ve heard from Danny. It’s great to see him stretch himself for
different styles of music – but he’s also one that knows his niche is in the old
Standards and Southern Gospel and he makes sure that we are treated to a healthy
dose of that throughout.
On the whole, this is a project to add to your collection.
REVIEWER FAVORITE CUTS:
Big Shot
I’m Going up
If Jesus Comes Tonight
I Wouldn’t Miss It
Cover Me Lord
PCM CD Review
"In A Different Light"
March 2003
Florida’s own Danny Riddle just keeps getting better and better and his confidence
grows with each subsequent release.
This project features five original songs (where Danny was the only composer or co-
wrote them with friends) and nine “good old favorites”. The title song is “In A Different
Light”, a Candy Hemphill Christmas song from the mid ‘80’s. It is followed by “Can’t
Keep It To Myself”, a song originally made famous by Danny’s great uncle’s group, The
Nelons. The music soars on this track and the tight background vocals lift Danny’s
voice through the driving southern beat.
“Put Your Hand In Mine” and “My Father’s Love” were originally written by family friend
Virginia Skinner and re-worked by Danny and Terry Lee Ousley for this project. The
results show the imagination and daring experimental streak in Danny. “Hand” takes
on an island feel while “My Father’s Love” remains true to it’s southern ballad
beginning. “I Won’t Be Lonely Anymore” is pure Danny through and through: fast
driving southern gospel with the feel that only Danny can give to such songs.
Perhaps the best cut on the project is “If God Be For Us”, co-written by Danny and
Terry Lee. The uptown country feel and sharp lyrics catch your attention; the hook line
of the chorus makes this the song you find yourself singing at the oddest times without
thinking about it. Ever had one of those in your head?
The remaining songs are favorites old and new sure to leave your heart singing and
your feet tapping. This is definitely a fun project to have and listen to.
FAVORITE CUTS:
"If God Be For Us"
"Put Your Hand In Mine"
"Can’t Keep It To Myself"
"My Father’s Love"
Southern Gospel News Magazine
CD Review "In A Different Light"
January 2003
This project "In A Different Light" features Southern Gospel soloist Danny Riddle. Just
by listening to this CD, you know he believes what he is singing about. There are 14
uplifting songs on this recording. "I Won't Take Less", "Let's Meet By The River", and
"God On The Mountain" were three songs that especially touched me. Be sure to add
this project to your Southern Gospel collection.
PCM CD Review
"Old Time Religion"
February 2002
This is the CD to buy. This project takes 14 of the old standards most of us (admit it,
now!) grew up with in church. From the first note of "Old Time Religion" to the last note
of cut 14, "It Is Well With My Soul", you are in for a treat and a trip through gospel
music's nostalgia land.
Danny’s strong voice has an incredible way of both breaking through all of your senses
and yet soothing you with the message he brings when he sings. With his southern
stylings in full swing, you will feel that you are sitting in a pew in a little country church
with no air conditioning in sight but hand held fans abounding.
The messages in the songs ring true through every note. "Don’t Be Afraid" spurs us
onto courageous action; "Put Your Hand In The Hand" makes one feel that they are
walking the seashore with the Savior. "The Old Gospel Ship" is one of the best
renditions I’ve heard of this song; and "First Day In Heaven" is delivered in full Danny
Riddle style. When he sings "Precious Memories" you get caught up in both the song
and your own memories; and on "I Bowed On My Knees" the listener will be taken
right to the throne!
EDITOR'S TRACK PICKS:
Don’t Be Afraid (I Don’t Want To Go)
Old Gospel Ship
First Day In Heaven
Precious Memories
Southern Gospel News Magazine
CD Review "Old Time Religion
November 2000
Danny knows what he is doing when it comes to singing a song and conveying a great
sound through it. Some of the classic favorites you'll be treated to include, "Just Over
In The Gloryland", "Blessed Assurance" and "Oh, I Want To See Him". This is a great
project that will bless you from the first tap of the ivories, through the last breath of
vocals sung. Make sure you pick up a copy of Danny's "Old Time Religion".
PCM CD Review
"Christmas With Danny"
January 2003
This Holiday release by southern gospel singer Danny Riddle is actually a CD re-
release that was first produced in the mid-eighties. It is filled with traditional seasonal
favorites with a sprinkling of songs that were new at the time of its original release.
"Christmas With Danny" opens with "Hosanna", a duet with soprano Dorie Hook. It is
followed by a snow storm of traditional entries such as "O Come All Ye Faithful", "O
Holy Night" and "Away In A Manger". The album wraps up with Sandy Patty’s "The Gift
Goes On."
The project gives the disclaimer that it was originally recorded on analog equipment
and was re-mastered to be as close as possible to the original release. However,
some of the limitations of age do show through in the quality of the CD. The limitations
do not destroy the Christmas magic that shines through Danny’s voice and the
orchestrations.
FAVORITE CUTS:
"O Holy Night"
"Worship The King"
"Come On, Ring Those Bells"
"The Gift Goes On"
Southern Gospel Music Forum
January 2012
Project Title: The Hands Of Time
Artist: Danny Riddle
Label: Somebody Productions
Producers: Danny Riddle
Reviewed By: Brooklyn Evans