The Bates Family has learned that the Singing News Magazine has chosen them to be a part of their " Just Call It Southern" artist disc for 2021.Rick Francis of the Singing News stated " We are thrilled to have this wonderful family to be a part of our national campaign, they represent the quality that we look for to coincide with our efforts in keeping this wonderful music alive and well and in front of all of our subscribers." The Singing News Magazine has been around for decades and is considered the official voice of the gospel music charts. The song chosen is their Top 40 smash hit "Somewhere Prayin"  written by Tim Bates and Steven Cheney. "We are so grateful for this incredible opportunity to represent this industry that we love so much, God has touched so many lives with this song and now with this venture even more lives will be impacted" Tim Bates stated. The Bates Family are one of forty that have been selected.