The King Biscuit Festival announced a new program to highlight the gospel roots of blues music at the festival. "Each year the King Biscuit Festival has featured a gospel stage as part of the event. This year the stage will host our first gospel challenge."

Sponsored in part by the Arkansas Gospel Announcers Guild the challenge is
a chance for regional artist to gain exposure by performing at a major festival. The Executive Director of the Festival, Wayne Andrews, commented "This type of program was has been used by the Gospel Music Association, and several outdoor festivals, to increase the quality of
performances and build community support. We hope by hosting this Gospel
Challenge as part of the festival we will draw a diverse range of gospel
performers to the stage."

The contest provides artist, choirs, and groups an opportunity to perform
at one of the largest festivals in the South. The contest will be judged by members of the Gospel Announcers Guild who represent Gospel radio stations, on air personalities, and program directors. "This partnership with the regional chapter of a national organization will highlight the event, while giving artist from our region a chance to gain exposure to the gospel media." added Mr. Andrews, "by hosting this contest and working with the Gospel Media we are drawing a new audience to the festival, and media exposure for this exciting project." A winner will be selected from the performers and will receive a cash prize, media coverage from the Gospel Announcers Guild, and the opportunity to be included on a compact disk to be release by the Sonny Boy Blues Society.

The Gospel Challenge is schedule for Saturday, October 8, 2005 from noon
to 9:00P.M. as part of the King Biscuit Festival. The King Biscuit Festival is recognized as one of the premier live music events receiving honors from Southern Living Magazine and E! as one of the top live events.

Submissions are still being accepted by the festival from choirs, singers, and groups. Those interested in participating may contact the festival office at
870-338-8798, or visit the Sonny Boy Museum at 233 Cherry Street to
receive an application