Karen Akemon Joins The Ruppes

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INMAN, S.C. - Southern Gospel trio The   Ruppes have announced the addition of new singer, Karen Akemon, of Perry Sisters fame. The announcement came with the departure of Kim Ruppe Lord, who will pursue a musical ministry with her husband.

"I'm excited that God has opened this door. I'm looking forward to being a part of this ministry, and seeing what the Lord has in store for us in the future," says Akemon. "The Ruppes are talented vocalists and wonderful Christian people."

Akemon graduated from the Stamps-Baxter School of Music and began her career as a soloist in Gospel music. After a brief stint with the King's Heirs, Akemon joined Karen Peck & New River as a nanny. During these two years, Akemon was able to learn the touring circuit with a full-time Gospel group, giving her invaluable information and experience. Two years later, Akemon joined the Ruppes replacing Valerie while she gave birth to her daughter. After Valerie's return in 1997, Akemon began singing with the award-winning Perry Sisters. When Kim announced she was beginning a new journey of her own at the end of 1999, Akemon was asked to rejoin The Ruppes.

"The Ruppes are excited to have Karen with us," says Brenda Ruppe. "We are looking forward to great things in the new year and are honored that she is a part of our ministry." Kim will be missed as a part of The Ruppes, but will continue in the music ministry. "After months of prayer and seeking God's will for my life," Kim says, "I feel the Lord is leading me in a new and different direction in ministry and service to Him. My husband, Michael, and I feel that God is calling us into a ministry in which we can serve Him together. I will miss singing with my family more than words could ever express and I pray God's continued blessings on them. But, we are excited about what God is calling us to do and are looking forward to the blessings He has in store for us."

In 1998, The Ruppes claimed the honor of being the first female group to receive a No. 1 on the Singing News Southern Gospel charts with their single "Angels In The Room," from their Spring Hill release, Seasons. This song marked the first No. 1 for the group and held the position for two months. The Ruppes will continue to tour in support of their 1999 release, Harbor of Hope.