Cracker Barrel releases Rogers' gospel CD

LEBANON, Tenn., March 8 (UPI) -- U.S. country music star Kenny Rogers has released "The Love of God," his first gospel album, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store announced.

The CD, being sold exclusively at Cracker Barrel locations and online, features 12 new recordings of songs that have touched Rogers "musically and spiritually" through the years, the company said in a news release Monday.

"The trick to doing a good concept record is surrounding yourself with unique musicians, singers, and creative talent," Rogers said in a statement. "When you hear 'I'll Fly Away,' there is no question that The Whites are singing. Anything they sing takes on their own special sound, and it feels perfect for this record."

"Kenny Rogers has placed his unique stamp on this album with songs that are his personal favorites," Chris Ciavarra, senior vice president of marketing for Cracker Barrel, said. "With Kenny's voice and the wonderful arrangements on this inspirational collection, we hope our guests will be touched by both the sounds and the images they evoke."

The CD went on sale Monday.

Cracker Barrel, founded in 1969 in Lebanon, Tenn., has 594 locations in 42 states.