Duo finds roots in gospel music

From the time Christie Lynn Mock was a toddler, she knew she wanted to be a singer. After finding success on the Grand Ole Opry stage, the Samson native has returned to the Wiregrass to do what she believes God has called her to do — sing gospel music.

Christie Lynn has teamed up with her brother Chad as The Mock Family. The duo has already recorded their first album, which will be released this month. Glory Train features 10 songs written by Christie Lynn, Chad and their mother Barbara.

After winning a talent competition, the 1993 graduate of Samson High School, had the opportunity to meet country legend Porter Wagoner, who invited her to join him in Nashville, where she spent 15 years singing with him on the Grand Ole Opry stage. She also released three albums during this time, featuring Wagoner, George Jones, Ralph Stanley, Dolly Parton and others.

After realizing God was pulling her toward gospel music, Christie Lynn decided to return to her roots and returned to the Wiregrass.

“I told her when she sings country, it’s really good, but when she sings gospel, it’s like a whole entirely different person,” Chad said. “She’s meant to sing gospel.”

With Christie Lynn singing lead, Chad can be seen on just about every instrument, including guitar, bass, drums and harmonica, which is what he plays on the single “Glory Train.”

“He can play anything,” Christie Lynn said.

“I told God one day that if he helps me learn to play, I would play for Him,” Chad said.

The Mock Family will be performing at 7 p.m., Aug. 7, at the Coffee Springs Senior Center. They will also perform at 10 a.m. Aug. 12 at Basin Baptist Church in Elba.

For up-to-date information about The Mock Family and their upcoming album, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/christie.lynn.75. To book The Mock Family, contact Christie Lynn at 449-9217.