On Tuesday, June 5, Word Entertainment announced the re-launch of legendary Southern Gospel label, Canaan Records, at a sales conference that took place at the "W" in Franklin, TN. Word also took this opportunity to showcase the first group to sign, Southern Gospel music favorite, The Hoppers.

As a subsidiary of Word, Canaan Records began in 1965 as an outlet for Southern Gospel music. It included Southern Gospel greats such as The Happy Goodman Family, The Florida Boys, The Inspirations, The Nelons, and The Cathedrals.

Dave Clark, a well-known figure in the Christian music industry as well as accomplished songwriter, has been selected by Word Entertainment CEO, Jim Van Hook, to take the reins of this new venture. Dave commented, "As a young songwriter back in the 70's, my first cuts were on the Canaan label and many of my songwriting heroes wrote for Canaanland music. Men like Marvin Norcross helped pave the way for many of us through the years. I realize with the legacy of the past there comes a responsibility for the future. That's why the Hoppers are the perfect group to begin this next chapter. They represent all of the things that attracted me to gospel music so many years ago. Their commitment to quality, integrity, consistency, and a passion for ministry are just a few of the reasons they are still making a difference in their 50th year."

Part of Dave's responsibilities will also include overseeing the redevelopment of the Canaanland publishing imprint, which was one of the leading Southern Gospel publishers in the 70's and 80's.

Rhonda Thompson of Rhonda Thompson Promotions will play an integral part in the establishment of Canaan's role in Southern Gospel's presence on the radio waves. For over thirteen years, Rhonda's career includes promoting over forty number one hits as well as being named "SGMA Radio Promoter Of The Year" for an unprecedented five years.