Album Notes

This special performer, songwriter and musician went home (passed away)in 2003.

He wrote songs recorded by major artists like Loretta Lynn and Waylon Jennings. He co-wrote "The Pill." He sang with one of the best bluegrass groups to ever come down the pike - Jim & Jesse.

I first heard Don McHan on a song demo someone sent to me in the 80's - I think it was Carlon Miller. "This McHan," I thought, "sounds like Marty Robbins..maybe Don Gibson..how come he's doing demos!" I contacted Don and hired him to demo some of my songs.

This quickly became a co-writing situation as Don was a great song writer. Soon a session at Lyons Smith's Lasting Sound Studios in Bountville, TN ensued followed by a cassette release titled "Jesus Won't You Walk With Me" by Don McHan & the Smoky Mtn Gospel Band.

In '95 Don and I talked about adding a few songs, deleting a few and putting out a CD. For various reasons it never happened. Over the years I'd listen to the demos and tracks he'd done for me and marvel at his musical gifts. All in all, Don was perhaps the greatest "utility player" I ever worked with. He could do it all.. jack of all trades and a master of most.

Very few folks can pick up a guitar and sing and play a song solo and captivate you. Don could. Or he could double his vocal and instrumental on a home 4 track demo and hold you as well.

This CD is a tribute to Don, a wonderfully humble man who is now with the subject of his musical focus and devotion - Jesus. I know he would want this music to get out and reach folks for the Lord.

The Gospel songs on this CD give a sampling of the musicianship of this great Christian singer. I think it's interesting to hear the 10 studio tracks plus some of the home demos he did ..you'll come away saying "is that as good as I think it was" - and you'll go back for more.

John Hager (writing partner on many of these songs)