There is a Peyton Manning commercial that runs locally in the Knoxville area. His tag line of the commercial is, “I’ll take experience over youth every time”. There is something to be said about the wealth of experience and the wisdom that comes from it. Wisdom is something you can’t have until you go through experiences to learn from. Wow! That was wordy!

It wasn’t until a few years ago that I understood the importance of experience in my vocation. I mean, what experience is needed to sing a song? Right? That was the question during my “youthful” years.

During my Singing American years, I traveled with Ed Hill. Ed was a much traveled man. He started with the Prophets way back in the 60’s. Later Ed found himself singing with JD Sumner and the Stamps, who were then singing with Elvis Presley! It was there that he announced nightly, “Ladies and Gentlemen, Elvis has left the building!” When I joined the Americans, Ed was the baritone and road manager. I can’t tell you the wealth of knowledge I gained from this man. Funny thing….THAT knowledge wasn’t apparent until later in my career.

I appreciate Ed’s quiet leadership. He was never overbearing and never micro managed. He allowed you the freedom to do your job. Ed Hill led by example!

It was a thrill for me, 2 years ago, to watch as Ed was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall Of Fame. This one was well deserved! I was proud to have learned from Edwin Lee Hill!

Clayton

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