Bethany Dillon, the popular young singer/songwriter who released her 2004 self-titled debut album to commercial and critical acclaim at age fifteen, returns April 3rd with her third studio project, Waking Up.

Led by first single The Kingdom (serviced to radio stations January 24th), Waking Up clearly reflects Bethany’s artistic and spiritual growth. Now eighteen, Dillon is beginning to experience her faith in profound new ways. After a recent mission trip to India, she said, “I feel like God is widening my eyes as I’m walking in this new season.”

Waking Up is produced by Ed Cash (Chris Tomlin), John Alagia (John Mayer, Dave Matthews), and Will Hunt (Shane & Shane). Other standout songs on the album include Something There, You Could Be The One, When You Love Someone, Beggar’s Heart, and Top Of The World. Pre-promoting the disc, Bethany will embark on a 20-date college tour with Robbie Seay Band through February and March.

In related news, Dillon has also contributed to a couple of new movie related albums. She sings All Creatures Of Our God And King with Shawn McDonald on Music Inspired By The Motion Picture Amazing Grace (available at Canadian Christian retailers now) and contributes to the Bridge To Terabithia original soundtrack that also includes performances by television stars Miley Cyrus (Disney Channel’s Hannah Montana) and Hayden Panettiere (NBC’s Heroes).

Stay tuned to YMZ for more information on Waking Up in the weeks to follow.