Kathy Conley Nicholson

Ladies and gentlemen, it is truly my honor and privilege to share with you a very special treasure — a vintage recording of Billy Burrell singing the sacred hymn The Eastern Gate.

This recording was made nearly 40 years ago on a simple cassette, capturing Billy’s voice and heart in a beautiful moment of worship. Recently, we were able to bring that recording into digital form, preserving it so it can be shared and enjoyed by so many more people.

At Billy’s request, I had the sweet privilege of adding a harmony vocal to this song and a few others in this precious and timeless collection. Getting to step into that moment with him across the years has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.

What makes it even more special is this — when Billy recorded this, he was about the same age I am now. In a beautiful way, it feels like we’ve been able to bridge time together through music and faith.

I pray this song blesses your heart as deeply as it has blessed mine.