Glory Revealed II And Mikeschair Featured On HearItFirst.ca
Publish Date: Jul 02, 2009
This week’s premieres include the follow-up to the best-selling worship album and the debut from a bunch of Belmont students who got their name from a chair.
Wanting to provide listeners with truth taken directly from scripture, Third Day’sMac Powell teamed up with speaker/author David Nasser to build one of 2007’s most unique albums, Glory Revealed.
Produced by Powell along with contributing vocals from friends, the projects rootsy, Americana style and scriptural content became an instant hit.
Glory Revealed II: The Word Of God In Worship will continue to inspire listeners to dig into the hope and truths found in scripture.
The name Mikeschair piques a lot of interest and begs for an explanation. “The ‘chair’ was the central gathering point where we got our start,” says guitarist Sam Tinnesz. “All of us lived on the same floor of our dorm at Belmont, except for Mike. But, since he was always hanging out with us on our floor, we decided to get him a piece of furniture to make him feel a little more at home. The chair was his only piece of property on our floor. He wrote his name on it in big capital letters, and it kind of became his seat of inspiration for writing songs and being creative. The name is a reminder of our humble beginnings and how far God has brought us.”
The album is co-produced by Jason Ingram and Rusty Vanderkamp (Tenth Avenue North, Bebo Norman, Rush Of Fools).
The first single to be released to radio, “Can’t Take Away”, is climbing the charts.
Phil Keaggy: Best of Phil Keaggy (Guitar Recorded Versions)
These titles are now available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the July New Music Tuesday poster. Also, visit the YMZ Music section to check out other upcoming releases.
Third Day To Be Inducted Into Georgia Music Hall Of Fame On September 19th
Publish Date: Jun 26, 2009
[Below is the official press release with updated information from what we previously reported on June 25th]
Multi-platinum, GRAMMY® and AMA (American Music Award) winning rock band Third Day received the news this week that the Atlanta-based group has been selected as a new inductee into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame. The 31st Annual Georgia Music Hall of Fame Awards Show takes place Saturday, September 19th, 2009, at the Georgia World Conference Center in Atlanta, GA. The show will broadcast live on Georgia Public Broadcasting viewed locally on Atlanta’s Channel 8.
Other honourees to be inducted during the awards show include post-grunge rock band Collective Soul, music promoter Peter Conlon, GRAMMY® winning songwriter Bryan-Michael Cox, music industry pioneer Johnny L. Carson, the late singer and songwriter Roy Hamilton; the late record executive Shakir Stewart, and the late bass guitarist Berry Oakley.
Previous inductees include a very talented and musically diverse group of people including Ray Charles (1979), Alan Jackson (2001) and Lynyrd Skynyrd (2007).
In order to be nominated for this prestigious “Georgy Award” an artist must be born in or reside in Georgia for at least one year and receive a state of national acclaim for achievements in the field of recorded music.
“This is a very special honour for Third Day because we are all Georgia boys through-and-through and have a sound with Georgia inspired roots,” said Mac Powell. “It is one of the biggest highlights of our career to be recognized by an organization which acknowledges such a diverse and talented group of people.”
For tickets and information, call 770-491-9494 ext. 15.
Jason Crabb And Robin Mark Featured On HearitFirst.ca
Publish Date: Jun 26, 2009
This week’s premieres include the debut solo release from a member of an acclaimed Southern Gospel group and the latest from a celebrated worship leader.
Best known as the powerhouse lead vocalist for one of Gospel’s most acclaimed and awarded groups, The Crabb Family, Jason Crabb’s career has already been an incredible ride.
While garnering multiple Dove Awards, three Grammy® nominations and 16 #1 singles with his family, Jason has become one of the Christian music community’s most acclaimed vocalists. His unique sound finds him on stages that range from The Grand Ole Opry and national youth conference platforms to a sweet Sunday service at an old country church as well as performances with the legendary Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir.
This year marks the release of his self-titled, national solo debut, produced by Tommy Sims, Norro Wilson and Gordon Mote, three of the music industry’s most acclaimed producers.
Featuring a cameo appearance by one of Jason’s heroes, Vince Gill, the recording finds Jason doing exactly what he loves with a soulful, heartfelt approach that his fans love to hear.
Northern Ireland’s Robin Mark is one of the most celebrated worship leaders of our day. His song Days Of Elijah continually stays near the top of the CCLI charts and his albums have sold more than one million units worldwide.
Robin’s latest CD, Year of Grace, is reminiscent of Revival In Belfast and combines powerful new worship songs with Robin’s unique Celtic delivery and Irish intonation. Recorded live during a powerful night of worship, Year Of Grace provides a much sought after worship experience. This recording promises to be another strong seller.
Also available as a folio, CD-ROM songbook and CD Trax.
Jason Crabb will be arriving at your local Canadian Christian retailer this Tuesday, June 30th while Year Of Grace will be in stores on Juy 14th. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.
Show Hope™, the adoption ministry of Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman, announces the official opening of Maria’s Big House of Hope on July 2nd in Luoyang, China. As the finishing touches are being made to this healing home for special needs orphans, the offices of Show Hope™, located in Franklin, Tennessee, celebrated stateside for the hope and future of these orphans Tuesday evening at an invite-only open house for friends and family.
Mary Beth and Steven Curtis Chapman, speaking at Show Hope open house
Open house photos courtesy of JohnPricePhoto.com
About Maria’s Big House of Hope
Maria’s Big House of Hope is a healing home dedicated to saving the lives of special needs orphans in China. Show Hope is proud to open the doors to this exciting project that provides for orphans throughout the country who are in desperate need of surgeries and special medical attention, offering them the highest level of care and enabling the children to thrive. In turn, there is hope that this necessary medical attention increases the orphans chances of being adopted. The facility is named in loving memory of the Chapman’s 5-year old daughter, Maria Sue Chunxi Chapman, whom they adopted from China in 2004 when she was just one year old.
Luoyang, located in the Henan Chinese province with a population of approximately six million people, is one of the poorest provinces in all of China and is the chosen location for this caring facility that will be a beacon of hope to the people of China and the world. The state-run Luoyang orphanage takes care of nearly 700 children, currently giving care for most of the special needs orphans from all around Henan. By now partnering with Maria’s Big House of Hope, the most ill of the orphans will be offered further medical care that they so desperately need.
The Six Floors
At completion, Maria’s Big House of Hope is a 60,000 square foot six-story building equipped with everything needed to care for these special needs orphans. There are 128 beds with 190 nurses and nannies on staff, when at full capacity. Every orphan in the facility is five years old or younger, representing some of the neediest orphans in China.
The first level consists of an entrance/reception area, office, small exam room, kitchen, laundry, and accommodations for caretakers. 24 beds are available to the children on this floor who have been through surgery, recovered, and awaiting adoption.
The second and third floors holds children with long-term chronic care who are not healthy enough to survive on their own or in the state-run orphanage. Because of their condition they are also not likely to be adopted. 72 beds are available between these two floors, along with an area for physical therapy.
The fourth floor has 28 beds and is dedicated to hospice care for children who are terminal. This floor also offers an intensive care area, emergency room, and isolation room. Every new orphan to Maria’s Big House is brought to the fourth floor for evaluation, registration, and diagnosis.
The fifth level is the home of the building’s operation theatre with rooms for 10-16 children who are coming in from all over China for them to stay before and after surgery. Only surgeries such as minor orthopaedic and cleft pallet surgery will take place on this floor. A training room for incoming staff and an infirmary are also located here.
The sixth floor is the living quarters for long-term staff and visiting medical physicians. This area also allows groups with up to 20 people.
For more information about Maria’s Big House of Hope and Show Hope, please visit www.ShowHope.org.
Last night’s Season Four premiere of Gospel Music Channel’s (GMC) American Idol®-style talent search series Gospel Dream had a little bit of everything: rousing performance highs, disappointing performance lows; tears of joy, tears of sorrow; judges’ praise, judges’ criticism; contestants moving on, contestants going home; drama, comedy and much more. Viewers can catch special encores of the season premiere episode Sat. June 27 (8:00 P.M., 1:00 A.M.) and Sunday, June 28 (8:00 P.M., 11:00 P.M.) on GMC. All times eastern.
The judges deciding the fate of the contestants are Michelle Williams from the GRAMMY®-winning group Destiny’s Child; One of Gospel music’s most prolific talents, J. Moss; and one of the music industry’s most respected executives, Mitchell Solarek. Kimberley Locke, the first American Idol® alumnae to debut at #1 on the Billboard charts with a non-Idol single, serves as co-host along with Mike Kasem (“MTV’s Top 20 Video Countdown” “American Top 10” ). In addition, two major musical artists will serve as surprise coaches during the season. The theme for the Gospel Dream’s fourth season: The Greatest Inspirational Songs of All Time.
Front Row (L-R): Erin Lyder (Boston, MA); NeVar Massey (Hampton, Ga.). Middle Row: Ashli Marie Pritchett (Thomaston,GA.), Rashelle Garrett (Ceres,CA.), Robert Mauti (Nashville, TN.), Tony LeBron (Boca Raton, FL). Back Row: Amber Davis (Brownsville, TN), Jasmine Jackson (Murfreesboro, TN), Tim Stylez (Atlanta, GA), Travis Lindseth (Kirkland, WA)
Twenty-six people were sent home last night with the judges selecting these contestants as the Top Ten Finalists [Name, hometown and age]:
Amber Davies
Brownsville, TN [18]
Ashli Marie Pritchett
Thomaston, GA [16]
Erin Lyder
Boston MA [24]
Jasmine Jackson
Murfreesboro, TN [21]
NeVar Massey
Hampton, GA [34]
Rashell Garrett
Ceres, CA [32]
Robert Mauti
Nashville, TN [26]
Tim Stylez
Atlanta, GA [27]
Tony BeBron
Boca Raton, FL [32]
Travis Lindseth
Kirkland, WA [21]
The next new episode of Gospel Dream premieres on GMC Wednesday, July 1st at 10:00 P.M. ET/9:00 CT.
Gospel Dream talent auditions invited solo artists between the ages of 16-40, from all genres of Gospel/Christian music styles, including traditional, rock, pop, country and soul to compete for the final competition in Nashville from which ten finalists – and ultimately one winner – will be chosen by a celebrity panel of industry professionals. The winning artist will receive record and music video exposure, among other prizes.
The Gospel Dream series was created by Executive Producer Elvin Ross who is also the series’ executive producer and musical director. Gospel Music Channel is the fastest-growing network in television and can be seen in 45 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.
Inpop Records Boasts Big Week At Radio With Two No. 1 Hits
Publish Date: Jun 25, 2009
Inpop Records artists captured the top spots at Christian radio this week, with singer/songwriter Mat Kearney dominating the CHR chart and pop-rock outfit Everyday Sunday claiming the No. 1 song at Rock radio.
“Closer to Love”, the debut single from Kearney’s new Inpop/Columbia/Aware project, City of Black & White, marks his first No. 1 song at Christian radio. Chris Hauser of Hauser Promotions, who is promoting the song to radio, comments, “I’m thrilled and honored to be attached to Mat Kearney’s first career No. 1. His music is way more than just a job to me. He speaks to me, moves me and inspires me with his take on life.”
Also No. 1 this week is Everyday Sunday with the first single, and title track, from its June 16th release, Best Night of Our Lives, which climbed to No. 3 on iTunes’® Top Christian Albums chart. “Best Night Of Our Lives” is the second Rock radio hit for Everyday Sunday, following “Wake Up! Wake Up!” from its 2007 Inpop Records debut of the same name. A remixed version of the single by Soul Glow Activatur from Family Force 5 is also currently being offered as a bonus track exclusively through iTunes®.
Trey Pearson, founder and front-man of Everyday Sunday, remarks, “We are so excited to have ‘Best Night Of Our Lives’ go No. 1 at radio the week of our new album release. We had so much fun making this record, and it’s rewarding to see so many old and new fans rallying in support of our latest project.”
“It is a huge privilege to hold the number one positions on two charts simultaneously,” says Shara Katerberg-Hsu, Director of Marketing at Inpop Records. “This is the first number one for Mat Kearney, who was first embraced by Christian radio when he broke records at CHR five years ago. Everyday Sunday’s latest accomplishment at Rock marks the band’s third No. 1 since signing with Inpop two years ago, solidifying its staying power as a first class rock act in our industry. Congratulations to both artists, and many thanks to the promoters and our friends in radio who have continued to support Inpop through the years!”
About Mat Kearney
Kearney initially sprung onto the music scene in 2004 with Bullet, his first national release and label debut on Inpop Records. In addition to spawning the hit song “Undeniable”, Bullet caught the attention of Aware Records, label home to John Mayer, Train and Five For Fighting. Kearney and Inpop Records inked a general-market partnership with Aware/Columbia Records in 2005, and he released his sophomore project, Nothing Left To Lose, in 2006. The album garnered Kearney Dove Awards for New Artist of the Year as well as Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song (“Trainwreck”) and prominent licensing placements on popular shows including “Grey’s Anatomy”, “Bones”, and “Friday Night Lights”. He was additionally featured as a VH1 You Oughta Know artist and headlined the first VH1 “You Oughta Know” tour. Kearney has also toured with John Mayer, Sheryl Crow, The Fray, Jason Mraz and most recently Keane in the spring of 2009. On June 19th, Kearney kicked off a headlining tour in support of City of Black & White, which debuted last month at No. 1 on the Christian SoundScan charts and No. 13 on the Billboard 200. For more information, visit Kearney’s YMZ artist page.
About Everyday Sunday
Comprising Trey Pearson (lead vocals), Tyler Craft (bass), Kevin Cramblet (drums) and Nick Spencer (guitar), Everyday Sunday hails from Columbus, Ohio. Attracting a national audience with its 2001 independent Christian Hit Radio single, “Just a Story”, Everyday Sunday joined Flicker Records’ roster in 2002. The band released two successful projects with Flicker, Stand Up and Anthems For The Imperfect, while raking in numerous accolades, including being named among CCM Magazine’s “Favorite New Artists of 2003”, as well as “Best New Artist of the Year” by TVU Music Television. The band’s Inpop Records debut, Wake Up! Wake Up!, released May 22th, 2007, yielding the No. 1 CHR hit “Find Me Tonight” as well as Rock chart-topper “Wake Up! Wake Up!”. The album’s title track was additionally named 2007 Rock Song of Year by Radio & Records. The band’s follow-up, Best Night of Our Lives, produced by Mark Lee Townsend (Relient K, Jennifer Knapp, O.C. Supertones) and mixed by JR McNeely (Paramore, Jeremy Camp, tobyMac), finds Everyday Sunday exploring a more aggressive rock approach. In additional to a busy summer festival season, Everyday Sunday will once again be featured on Acquire The Fire’s national tour this fall. For more information on Everyday Sunday, visit the band’s YMZ artist page.
The multi-Platinum™ and three-time GRAMMY® Award-winning band Jars of Clay premiered its “Two Hands” music video on Tuesday and it is now available in the YMZ Media section.
The video showcases Jars of Clay’s engaging delivery of the hit single interspersed with footage of the band on a recent trip to Africa in support of its Blood:Water Mission. The “Two Hands” music video was directed by Eric Welch and produced by Tameron Hedge. “Two Hands” is currently at No. 8 on the AC Indicator chart, No. 9 on the AC Monitored chart, and No. 10 on the CHR chart. The songs has spun in front of over two million radio listeners so far. The album that the song is from, The Long Fall Back To Earth, has sold over 50,000 units to date.
“Sometimes music videos tell stories. This video tells the story of a band’s journey to get our own hands dirty. Someone once defined the role of an artist as the act of looking at the world and describing it… not just as the world is… but also as it should be,” says lead singer Dan Haseltine. “There is only so much looking and describing a band can do when faced with injustices, and tragedies… and also the heroic stories of those who rise above their fears and overcome insurmountable obstacles. Two Hands is a song about overcoming our own fears and finding reasons to care about others even when we don’t feel equipped to do so.”
About Jars of Clay
Jars of Clay launched its breakout career with its multi-format hit, “Flood”, in 1995. Since then, it’s amassed more than six million in career sales (Five Gold®, two Platinum® and one double Platinum® certification), an American Music Award nod, 17 No. 1 radio hits, and numerous film credits and BMI honours for song-writing and performing. Jars of Clay recently wrapped its “Two Hands Tour”, which was an outing that hit 23 cities coast-to-coast. See www.jarsofclay.com for upcoming festival dates and tour information.
While celebrated for its music and writing, Jars of Clay is most concerned with the needs in Africa. Compelled to make a difference, members Dan Haseltine, Stephen Mason, Matt Odmark and Charlie Lowell founded the Blood:Water Mission in early 2002. The first effort of this non-profit was the “1000 Wells Project” with a goal of raising funds to build, rebuild and repair 1,000 wells in urban and rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa. This year Jars of Clay will celebrate the building of the 1000th well which will help bring clean water to more than 150,000 people. Visit www.bloodwatermission.com for more information.
Many Artists Continue To Confirm For GMA’s Immerse
Publish Date: Jun 25, 2009
More than 20 artists have already confirmed to participate in Immerse, a four-day event presented by the Gospel Music Association (GMA) July 29th to August 2nd that is the Christian music industry’s premier training experience and talent competition. Immerse offers participants unparalleled access to some of Christian music’s top and rising artists and songwriters who will not only perform at Immerse, but also teach, mentor and create with registrants.
More artists will be confirmed up until the start of Immerse.
Christian artists, songwriters, worship leaders, music business professionals – and those that want to be someday – will gather at Immerse, a four-day event during which registrants will train with the industry’s most influential professionals, leading artists and songwriters, connect with top music insiders and others who share a passion for God and music; compete in Christian music’s official talent competition and enjoy exclusive music opportunities that only Nashville can offer, including the valuable prize packages.
The important deadline to register for the talent and songwriting competitions is coming up on June 30th. All the detailed information about Immerse is available at www.experienceimmerse.com.
Platinum®-selling, Dove Award winning recording artist Mark Schultz releases his long-awaited, fifth studio album, Come Alive, August 25th on Word Records. One of Christian music’s most acclaimed singer/songwriters, Schultz’s first new studio album in nearly three years is also his most personal recording to date, inviting listeners to “come alive” through these songs birthed by stories of hope, loss, joy and redemption.
New for Schultz, working with more than one or two producers for an album, Come Alive features the distinct and masterful touches from multiple GRAMMY® Award winner Brown Bannister (Amy Grant, Third Day, CeCe Winans), Shaun Shankel (Beyoncé, Hilary Duff), Bernie Herms (Natalie Grant, Avalon) and Paul Mills (Third Day, Bluetree). The album also features collaborations with such hit making songwriters as Bart Millard and Barry Graul of MercyMe, Matthew West, Joy Williams and Herms. The combination of talent and Schultz’s own vision for this album results in his most thought-provoking, musically diverse project to date.
“I would hope that when people listen to this CD they can identify with the struggles within the songs, but at the same time know that God is the same God through the struggles as He is during the triumphant moments. Christ, who began a good work, will finish a good work. It may not be on your own timeline or not even the way you imagined it, but He promises He will. There’s a bigger picture out of our control, but God has made these promises and I want to hold onto that.”
“He Is”, the first radio single from Come Alive to release July 10th, is an expression of this hope that was inspired by the stories of two families battling cancer.
“Payton Cram was a girl who came to one of my concerts in Michigan with her dad,” recalls Schultz. “I was really amazed at her maturity for her young age, even as she had cancer. When the cancer started to get bad, I flew up and spent a day with her and prayed with her and her family. She was a beautiful girl. She was never going to blame God for her cancer. She never asked ‘Why me?’ She just always knew there was a bigger purpose in it.”
During the same time Payton was fighting cancer, Mark learned from his wife, Kate, about a missionary family whose fourth child was born on a Friday and on Sunday they found out the mother had terminal cancer. “The father of the family said, ‘Well, we can’t praise God on Friday and curse him on Sunday… We have to trust that He knows what’s going on,’ and that’s when the idea of ‘He Is’ was born,” says Schultz. “He is, He was and always will be. It’s a pretty important message no matter what kind of rough road you are riding through.”
Another poignant song on the album, “What It Means to Be Loved”, is “the only song I’ve ever played in concert that received a standing ovation before the end of the first chorus was over,” recalls Schultz. Kate was again a source of inspiration for the song, “My wife said to me, ‘Since you are adopted, I think we should adopt kids too. I think we should adopt kids with special needs… maybe someday we adopt kids with special needs that doctors know are only going to live for a year or two,’” recalls Schultz. “I replied, ‘Honey, why would we do that?’ She answers, ‘Because, before they go to heaven, I want them to know what a great Christmas is like and what a great birthday is like and let them know they were loved well before they get to heaven.’ That’s the kind of wife I’m married to.”
This conversation was sparked by the story his wife told him about a family who was expecting a child and were told that tests revealed health issues that meant the baby probably wouldn’t live long. Although the doctor’s suggested terminating the pregnancy, the mother decided she would love the child as long as she could. Schultz channelled those emotions into the “What It Means to Be Loved” lyrics:
I want to give her the world
I want to hold her hand
I want to be her mom just as long as I can and live every moment until that day comes
I want to show her what it means to be loved
Schultz’ clear, compelling voice conveys the sense of sadness, yet shares the spirit of hope and abundant love that lie at the heart of the song.
“As Christians, we are called to be love,” says Schultz. “If that means loving a baby that will be here seven minutes or 70 years, it doesn’t make any difference.”
Pulling from real life experiences for the new record, many of the songs on Come Alive were also inspired when Schultz rode his bicycle from coast to coast to raise over $250,000 to benefit the James Fund, which provides assistance for widows and orphans. Along the way he learned much about himself, the human condition and God’s sovereignty. Those revelations reverberate throughout his new album.
“The album is a powerful work of art, full of emotion and featuring the most prolific and moving work Mark Schultz has ever written,” says Mark Bright, Word Entertainment President and CEO. “His ability to capture life’s most fragile moments in song, and lead people closer to God by revealing His glory in every situation, is what makes Mark Schultz such a gifted artist.”
Taking the songs from Come Alive on the road, Schultz will debut new music and fan favourites on a 40-plus-city tour beginning with the festival circuit this summer and leading into his “Come Alive” tour featuring Platinum®-selling group Point Of Grace that launches September 10th in Decatur, IL. For the latest list of tour dates, visit www.markschultzmusic.com.
Lauded at No. 1 on Billboard’s “Hot Christian Adult Contemporary Songwriters” list and with nine No. 1 radio hits, Schultz was the centrepiece of the U.S. Army campaign “Letters From War”, named Christian Music Today’s Male Vocalist in 2003, and featured on the national TV programs, 48 Hours, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, CNN and more. His 2005 release, Mark Schultz Live… A Night of Stories & Songs, sold RIAA® certified Platinum® and garnered Schultz his first GMA Dove Award.
Check out Come Alive and preview the song “He Is” on Schultz’s YMZ artist page.
Third Day Inducted Into The Georgia Music Hall Of Fame
Publish Date: Jun 25, 2009
At a media luncheon at the CNN Center Dantanna’s downtown on Tuesday, Atlanta-based rockers Third Day became part of the selected group of artists being inducted into the Georgia Music Hall Of Fame.
They join Collective Soul, long-time Atlanta concert promoter Peter Conlon, and songwriter Bryan-Michael Cox. John L. Carson will be receiving the Pioneer Award. Singer Roy Hamilton, bassist Berry Oakley (Allman Brothers) and music mogul Shakir Stewart will be honoured posthumously
The 31st annual Georgia Music Hall of Fame awards show will be broadcast live on GPB-TV September 19th from the Georgia World Congress Center. The evening will be hosted by broadcasters Monica Pearson and Leslie Fram.
For more information on the Georgia Music Hall Of Fame, please visit www.georgiamusic.org.
Tooth & Nail Records Signs Female-Fronted Hard Rock Band: The Letter Black
Publish Date: Jun 24, 2009
Nationally known for discovering fresh talent that fans gravitate towards, Tooth & Nail Records is pleased to announce the signing of their most recent hard rock band The Letter Black, formally known as Breaking the Silence. Legendary producer Toby Wright (Alice In Chains, Korn, 3 Doors Down) is working with the band in Seattle on their label debut, Breaking the Silence, which will release this fall (September) before the band hits the road on a major tour. The Letter Black is fronted by female vocalist Sarah Anthony, followed by her husband Mark Anthony (guitar / background vocals), Matt Beal (bass), Mat Slagle (drummer) and Perry Johnson (guitar).
Celebrating their joining the T&N family, Sarah Anthony shared when announcing the band’s news to their MySpace followers, “We’re very excited to join such a historic roster alongside so many great bands. The Tooth & Nail Family is extremely hard working and dedicated to supporting the goals we’ve set as a band. They have a solid understanding of the direction we’re looking to take this band, and we feel honored to team up with them.”
Describing the band’s songs, Mark Anthony shares, “Our songs are not always happy, but rather about real life situations. All of us go through different chapters in our lives, and in these chapters we write letters of good and bad times. Some letters in our chapters, we are happy to share. Others, we are not so proud to reveal. The Letter Black reminds us of the past mistakes we have made and helps us remember to not keep making the same mistakes.”
Formed in 2006, the band already has a strong established fan-base and plan to continue to expand this as they play at major festivals this summer including next week at the historical rock Cornerstone Festival, Rock the Desert (August) as well as a guest act on a major fall rock tour. With an impressive streak of 150 shows a year, a recent slot on the successful Five 4 Five Tour, this Uniontown, Pennsylvania-based band is sure to bring a major amount of attention on Tooth & Nail Records.
Stay tuned to YMZ as we will bring you further updates on The Letter Black.
Jason Crabb Steps Into Country Spotlight With Highly Anticipated Spring Hill Debut June 30th
Publish Date: Jun 24, 2009
The highly anticipated Spring Hill Music self-titled debut from one of today’s most prolific vocalists, Jason Crabb, is slated to bow June 30th. Produced by Tommy Sims (Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith), Norro Wilson (Kenny Chesney, Reba) and Crabb, the 12-song set also features guest appearances from Vince Gill, Sonya Isaacs and the Gaither Vocal Band.
Highlights of the album include the debut Gospel single “Walk on Water”, “Somebody Like Me”, “Ellsworth” (with Vince Gill), “Daystar” (with Gaither Vocal Band), “Sometimes I Cry, and a new arrangement of The Crabb Family classic “Through the Fire”. The project showcases credits from some of Nashville’s top songwriters, including Neil Thrasher, Radney Foster, Randy Goodrum, Gordon Kennedy, and Crabb’s father and award-winning writer Gerald Crabb, among others.
“I’ve always wanted to do a solo project,” says Crabb. “And I am blessed that at this time in my life, I have all the ingredients to create one that I can be proud of – a great label, great songs, great producers and some extremely talented folks to sing on this project.
Jason Crabb (right) is pictured in the studio with producer Norro Wilson (left) and Vince Gill [Click image to enlarge]
“I hope whatever the listener is feeling in his or her life at a particular moment, there will be a song on this record that will help him or her find their way through the trial. If someone has a bad day or if they are just feeling a little lonely, I hope they will find strength in this recording.”
The recording will be featured this summer on numerous television outlets including the Great American Country (GAC) Network, the RFD Network, Gospel Music Channel and Daystar Television Network, among others.
Jason Crabb is best known as the powerhouse lead vocalist for one of Southern Gospel’s most acclaimed and awarded groups, The Crabb Family. In addition to 10 Dove Awards and three GRAMMY® nominations with his family, Crabb has performed on the Grand Ole Opry, at the final Billy Graham Crusade in New York, and has sung with the legendary Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, among many other diverse and prestigious opportunities.
Preview several tracks from the album on Crabb’s YMZ artist page.
“More Beautiful You”, the single by INO Records’ recording artist Jonny Diaz (pronounced “DYE-az” ), has topped the charts. This week, the hit song claims the no. 1 spot on the AC Indicator Charts (according to Radio & Records Music Tracking/Billboard). This is the first single released from Diaz’s fourth recorded project, More Beautiful You, his very first with INO Records.
“I’ve been blown away at how God is choosing to use this song,” exclaims Diaz over the song’s top chart position. “I really can’t take any credit for its success, but I am thankful that He is using me as a vessel to share this extremely important message.”
Radio support continues to grow across the board for “More Beautiful You” with new adds at AC from K-LOVE Radio Network, American Family Radio, WGTS / Washington, DC, KTSY / Boise, ID, and CHR stations KDUV/ Visalia, CA, & WJLZ / Virginia Beach, VA.
Co-written by Diaz, the song aims to tell women they were created by God with a specific purpose in mind and continues to impact listeners of all ages. In addition, “More Beautiful You” has not only been taking over the radio airwaves but is also a huge hit on the internet and television, thanks to its unique music video. Premiering the first week in June on the Spirit Network and currently can be viewed online at YMZ’s Media section, the video showcases how girls of all ages compare themselves to the “perfect” pictures of celebrities and models in magazines and on the internet. The viewer sees this video story unfold through a mother and daughter being doted on by makeup artists and hair stylists, ending with the message that touched up photos and a lot of makeup don’t matter. What matters most is to embrace who God made you to be. Also available in the Media section is the story behind the song, a behind the scenes video, and teaching lesson for “More Beautiful You”.
Celebrating the emerging success of “More Beautiful You,” station programmers and talent have been happy to share their thoughts, as well as their listeners’, about this hit song:
“I can tell you ‘More Beautiful You’ hits to the heart of parents thinking about their daughters, and the messages about beauty she is getting even in their preteens. But, we’ve also heard from women who are in tears because the beautiful message is one that speaks to the heart of most women. Many of them struggle constantly with the child’s need to know they are beautiful even now as a grown woman when they haven’t felt it for along time.” Susan O’Donnell, KSBJ / Houston, TX
“We receive requests for ‘More Beautiful You’ ALL the time! Women, no matter how old or young have really connected with it because it answers the question we’re all wondering – am I beautiful and do I have value? The answer is YES! Thanks Jonny!” Caryn Cruise, KXOJ / Tulsa, OK
“It’s important for girls to hear strong Godly women say that we don’t need to look to the world for our identity, that who we already are, the way we already are, is more than enough… but its just as important if not more so that we hear that message from Godly men. The most powerful change comes I think when men themselves also get the chance to hear that message. Speaking God’s truth into the lives of women, ‘More Beautiful You’ is also speaking the challenge of this truth into the lives of other men. A challenge to understand that how we women see ourselves first is through the reflection in their eyes – and when that reflection is shining back God’s perfect love and acceptance to who we are, we finally allow ourselves to be loved fully by our Heavenly Father the way He intended! Thank you for speaking such precious and life changing truth Jonny Diaz!” Marisa Lykins, WYLV / Knoxville, TN
“The culture we live in is full of negative influences on a woman’s self esteem. From magazine covers to unreal ‘reality’ shows we are made to feel like we need to be physically perfect in every way if we ever want to be loved. ‘More Beautiful You’ from Jonny Diaz is a very powerful reminder to women and girls of all ages that life is about more than beauty. God created us to be exactly who He wants us to be. It’s one of our most requested songs. From teenage girls to the fathers of young girls… people are paying attention to this song!” Morgan Smith, SOLUTION FM / Bangor, ME
“Revelation Song” Heralds Phillips, Craig And Dean’s Release Of “Fearless” On August 4th
Publish Date: Jun 23, 2009
Decorated Christian trio Phillips, Craig and Dean will release their tenth studio album on INO Records on August 4th titled Fearless. Preceding the late summer release, the band’s first single “Revelation Song” is already a smash hit at radio and iTunes® landing in the Top 5 AC and Top 10 INSPO positions at radio while maintaining a Top 5 spot on iTunes® Christian & Gospel “Top Songs” chart for the past four weeks.
Uniquely gifted and positioned in their dual roles as musicians and full-time senior pastors in three different U.S. cities, Randy Phillips, Shawn Craig and Dan Dean know well the current struggles people in their congregations face, which is where the compelling idea behind Fearless was created. Produced by Bernie Herms (Casting Crowns), the 10 track album features songs co-written by each band member including “The Distance”, “Nothing to Prove” and “The Spirit of God is Here”, which Phillips co-wrote with Paul Baloche.
“We were talking about how afraid our church members are today,” recalls Phillips. “A look at your finances right now might mean kids who wanted to go to college can’t, and so on. The fear that brings can be so paralysing; it puts you in a cage. But then we asked ourselves, Shouldn’t believers who have the heart of eternity in them be different? That’s when we found our theme: fear less, hope more. This is an opportunity to show our power is in God alone.”
Among the band’s new music, each admits that “Revelation Song” is a tune the band has wanted to record for some time and aptly supports the theme of Fearless. To hear the story behind “Revelation Song” in the band’s own word, visit the YMZ Media section.
“This song captures the moment of looking up into Heaven, peeling back the curtain of eternity so we can peek in,” says Phillips. “If you keep your eyes on the Dow Jones or nuclear weapons in North Korea, you’ll always be nervous. Look to the awesomeness of God instead.”
Amidst “Revelation Song’s” success at radio, the song is receiving support from major markets & stations such as K-LOVE, KLTY/Dallas, KSBJ/Houston, WPOZ/Orlando, KCMS/Seattle, The Fish/Nashville and American Family Radio among many others.
In addition, national radio network K-LOVE recently partnered with Phillips, Craig and Dean for a Father’s Day contest they called “Hoosier Daddy?” The winner, Jeff Hannan, of Ft. Smith, Arkansas won the trip of a lifetime to the Hoosier State – Indiana. Later this fall, Jeff and his dad will be VIP guests to a Phillips, Craig and Dean concert, enjoy a round of golf at the prestigious Brickyard Crossing golf course, take a tour of the Indianapolis 500 Raceway and experience Opening Day of the NFL season at the Indianapolis Colts game! K-LOVE Brand Manager Mike Tedesco said of the promotion, “It was fun watching as this promotion transformed from a simple idea to something memorable.”
During street week, the band will be making promotional stops (to be announced) in support of Fearless. Phillips, Craig and Dean will also be performing tour dates across the country including appearances at Gateway Church, Atlanta’s Celebrate Freedom and at Brooklyn Tabernacle. For the most update tour info, please visit www.phillipscraiganddean.com.
In their 18 years of ministry as a Christian music staple, Phillips, Craig & Dean has no doubt achieved longevity in the ever changing music industry with 16 No. 1 radio hits, 10 albums, two million plus records sold and nine Dove Award nominations.
Preview the tracks mentioned in the article on the group’s YMZ artist page.
Phillips, Craig and Dean Touring Schedule [all tour dates subject to change]:
Jul. 10 Lifefest, Oshkosh, WI
Jul. 31 Gateway Church, Southlake, TX
Sept. 5 Celebrate Freedom, Atlanta, GA
Sept. 11 First Church of the Nazarene, Indianapolis, IN
Sept. 25 Central Christian Church, Mr. Vernon, IL
Oct. 4 Brooklyn Tabernacle, Brooklyn, NY
Oct. 15 Southeast Christian Church, Parker, CO
Nov. 5 First Assembly, Cedar Rapids, IA
Nov. 6 Emmanuel Christian Center, Minneapolis, MN
Nov. 19 Pentecostals of Alexandria, Alexandria, LA
Dec. 17 Christian Celebration Center, Midland, MI
Hear Sparrow Records artist Britt Nicole’s take on her new radio single, “The Lost Get Found”. The track is taken from her forthcoming August 11th release of the same title. The single debuted at no. 4 On the Soundscan christian/gospel digital tracks chart.
Find out more about the album on Nicole’s YMZ artist page.
Integrity Music worship artist Freddy Rodriguez will appear on TBN’s “Praise the Lord” program twice this week.
His first appearance is slated for Wednesday, June 24th at 9:00 p.m. CDT during a show hosted by actor and author Clifton Davis. (That program will re-air the following day at 4:00 p.m.). A second, separate guest appearance for “Praise the Lord” will air on Saturday, June 27th at 6:00 p.m. CDT. This program will be hosted by Dr. A.R. Bernard, pastor of the Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn, NY.
Rodriguez will perform songs from his critically-acclaimed debut CD, Light in the Darkness, which was hailed by ChristianityToday.com as “the best gospel-based worship recording since Israel’s classic Live From Another Level.” Check out the album on Rodriguez’s YMZ artist page. You can hear Rodriguez talk about the album in his video EPK in the YMZ Media section (it’s about halfway down).
Jason Gray Takes Listeners To A New Intimate Level On Upcoming Album
Publish Date: Jun 23, 2009
Jason Gray, one of Christian music’s premiere singer/songwriters, is poised to release his second studio album on Centricity Music. Everything Sad Is Coming Untrue will be available at Canadian Christian retailer on September 1st.
Everything Sad Is Coming Untrue was produced by Jason Ingram (Meredith Andrews, Tenth Avenue North) and Rusty Varenkamp (Rush Of Fools, Bebo Norman) and artfully blends elements of folk, alternative rock and even some R&B into the project. Gray, a highly respected songwriter among his peers, has once again written all songs for the new CD.
“Pop music has gotten a bad reputation over the years as being fluffy and insubstantial,” Jason acknowledges, “so I came into this project asking ‘What if I could aim for writing intelligent and weighty lyrics with a pop discipline?’ Admittedly, that’s the hardest kind of song for me to write – to take my passion for ideas and lyrics and pare it down to a 3 1/2 minute pop song. Just about every song I wrote had three verses and Jason Ingram was always pushing me to drop one of them. But he was right and the songs are better for it.”
Gray’s previous project, All The Lovely Losers, dealt with brokenness and now he takes the subject a step further, dealing with brokenness that begins with confession. “More Like Falling In Love” takes the listener to a deeper level, asking to fall in love with Christ instead of just following the rules of Christianity. “For The First Time Again” explores the excitement of when we first accepted Christ and how we lose that enthralment when burdened down by our life experiences and tight regulations within the church. “Does It Fade With Our Voices”, is a worship song that celebrates our spiritual lives and sacrifices. The title track is one of the most powerful songs on Everything Sad Is Coming Untrue but it’s proved to be a rather difficult one for Gray to write.
“‘Everything Sad Is Coming Untrue’ was the most difficult song I’ve ever written,” Jason admits, “all five times that I wrote it! It’s about renewal, both the longing for it and the promise of it. The inspiration came from a quote of Samwise Gamgee in ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ and the beauty and truth of it captured my imagination and wouldn’t let me go. The trick was trying to express an idea that meant so much to me in a way that might mean something to others. My wife was the litmus test. I kept working on the songs for over a year until I arrived at two versions of it that when I played them for Taya she said, ‘I get it now… that’s it.’ My wife’s tears are the biggest stamp of approval on a song, because she knows me too well to be impressed by any of my parlour tricks.”
Gray will heading out on an early September tour with Sanctus Real in support of the new project. Stay tuned to YMZ as we shall bring you further updates on Everything Sad Is Coming Untrue. In the meantime, check out All The Lovely Losers on Gray’s YMZ artist page.
Lonestar Vocalist Richie McDonald Releases Debut Christian Project “I Turn To You”
Publish Date: Jun 23, 2009
One of Country music’s premiere vocalists and respected songwriters, Richie McDonald, will release his debut Contemporary Christian project, I Turn To You, on June 23rd. The CD was produced by McDonald’s long-time friend, Frank Myers, and McDonald co-wrote all but two songs on the album. The project will be available at Christian retailers across Canada.
“I’ve always wanted to do this kind of album. I just thought it was time,” says McDonald. “I just feel like I’m doing music that really makes a difference. I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing now and it feels right in my heart.”
“I am extremely honoured to partner with Richie and help him connect with retailers & the Christian community nationwide,” says Greg Lucid, President, Lucid Artist. “It has been a long time since the Christian music community rallied behind, supported and effectively launched a new artist. I feel confident Richie has both the talent and message and it’s resonating with retailers… I know that when people hear the lyrics and meet Richie that they will instantly see why he is so special.”
I Turn To You is a compelling project with songs that give hope, encourage faith, and give glory to our wonderful God. The title song is the first single that will be going for adds at radio on March 14th. Other songs include, “He’s Alive”, that makes a powerful Easter message with the confirmation that Christ is alive and active in lives, “Handle With Prayer” is a testimony about the power of prayer and the results it has on our lives, and “What Would He Do”, which is about living a life faithful to Jesus’ teachings. “Hey God” will be familiar to McDonald’s fans as it’s an acoustic version of the Lonestar hit that he wrote for the band.
McDonald is the vocalist for Country’s supergroup, Lonestar, and surprised the music row community by leaving the band after 16 years to pursue a solo career. McDonald wrote three #1 songs for Lonestar, “My Front Porch”, “Mr. Mom”, and “I’m Already There”, and was honored by BMI as Songwriter Of The Year in 2003. McDonald’s music is now on mainstream rock stations as the best-selling English group, Westlife, has done a cover version of “I’m Already There”, which was co-written by McDonald, Frank Myers, and Gary Baker.
For more information on I Turn To You, please visit McDonald’s YMZ artist page.
These titles are now available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the June and July New Music Tuesday poster. Also, visit the YMZ Music section to check out other upcoming releases.
On the heels of the most successful record of their career, Atlantic/Ardent/INO Records’ active rockers Skillet will end the nearly three year span between projects with Awake, available in stores and at all online retailers on August 25th.
Produced by Howard Benson, (Daughtry, My Chemical Romance, The All American Rejects), the project is available now for pre-order via the band’s official website. A variety of packages are being offered, pairing the album with such bonuses as an exclusive Skillet t-shirt, an autographed VIP pass, and membership in Skillet’s official fan club. All pre-orders of Awake come with an immediate download of “Hero”.
Skilet rocks the Icthus Festival Click image to enlarge]
Now, as they headline and are creating a big buzz at the summer Christian festivals with their ‘electric’ live show, Skillet prepares to unveil what lead-singer/bassist and primary songwriter John Cooper calls a “turning of a page” for the band. “This album is even more immediate than “Comatose,” but there’s also a noticeable maturity,” he says. “Some of the songs are complex, others are just really intense rockers and overall there’s a real sense that we’re opening a new chapter. There are definitely some classic rock elements on the record, some very melodic moments with orchestration and piano, along with a lot of today’s heavier rock influences as well.”
The first example is the hook-heavy lead single “Hero”, already climbing Christian CHR (#15) and Rock radio (#6) charts, and getting an excellent reception:
“We’ve anxiously awaited a new song from Skillet for months and they’ve lived up to our lofty hopes,” commented WAY-FM’S Zach Boehm. “Our initial listener response has been great!”
Other outpourings include the first Mainstream and Active Rock single “Monster”, the militant “It’s Not Me”, and the hopeful “Forgiven”. There are also a handful of gripping ballads and crossover songs like the loss-centered “Lucy”, the melodic “Don’t Wake Me” and “One Day Too Late”. “Never Surrender” came from a conversation with a fan about their eating disorder, and what is sure to become a live show favorite is the rocker “Awake & Alive”. To listen to a clip of “Hero,” the band’s YMZ artist page.
“We’re living in hard times right now between the news that seems to get crazier every day and all the uncertainly throughout society in general,” says Cooper. “Sometimes it doesn’t seem like there’s hope, and sure you can choose to give up, but why not face it ‘Awake and Alive’? Life is full of challenges, and sometimes when you look deep into yourself, you can feel weighed down by sin and the ‘Monster’ that lives inside us all. But the more you realize your need for Christ, the less you focus on that, and on Him instead. Everything we sing about on this album is something someone can relate to, and if anything, the songs will let you know you’re not alone.”
About Skillet
Since 2006’s breakthrough project “Comatose,” which is approaching RIAA Gold® certification, Skillet has toured with the likes of mainstream mega-stars Breaking Benjamin, Three Days Grace, Seether and Flyleaf, and headlined a slew of major Christian festivals, all followed by solo tours that ranked within Pollstar’s Concert Pulse Top 50 Tours. Along the way, the two-time Grammy®-nominated alternative outfit also scored six consecutive number one Christian radio singles, a 2008 GMA Dove Award for Rock Song of the Year, and a 2009 nomination for Artist of the Year. Along with a trio of singles on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock charts, a pair of BMI Songwriting Awards, and being chosen as Reader’s Poll favourites on several top ccm websites, they also released their first ever concert CD/DVD combo pack Comatose Comes Alive.
Credential Recordings band Seabird breaks for a photo with Jars of Clay before taking the stage at Gothic Theater in Englewood, Colorado on June 4th. The band is currently opening as a special guest on Jars of Clay’s “Two Hands” tour, wrapping in Seabird’s hometown of Cincinnati on July 18th.
Don Poythress And Richie McDonald Featured On HearItFirst.ca
Publish Date: Jun 19, 2009
This week’s premieres include a successful country music song-writer and the lead vocalist for country group Lonestar.
Worship… pure and simple is what Wash Away is all about. Recorded live at Christ Church in Nashville, Tennessee, Wash Away features Don Poythress in a moving worship experience from the heart of one of Nashville’s top worship leaders and songwriters.
Joined by guest artists Paul Baloche and Ricky Skaggs, Wash Away features vibrant songs, powerful lyrics and styling that is modern acoustic worship at its best.
Widely acclaimed as a songwriter, Don has found a home for many of his songs on recordings by The Martins, Jaci Velasquez, Tim McGraw, Bonnie Raitt, Sheryl Crow, Kellie Pickler and many others.
Wash Away is available as a CD, CD Trax, a songbook and a CD-ROM digital songbook.
Richie McDonald, the powerhouse vocalist for the Platinum®-selling group Lonestar, has embarked on a solo career and the first album release is his debut Contemporary Christian CD, I Turn To You.
The project showcases McDonald’s incredible vocals but also focuses on his award-winning song-writing skills that display the depth and intelligence of the lyrics.
McDonald wrote several of Lonestar’s mega-hits and also for Country hit-makers, Billy Dean, Heartland, Clay Walker and Sara Evans. Although McDonald will continue to record Country projects, I Turn To You is the album he’s always wanted to make.
Specially priced at $14.99, I Turn To You, together with Wash Away will be arriving at your local Canadian Christian retailer this Tuesday, June 23rd. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.
Steven Curtis Chapman Fans Display “A Father’s Love” In Special Father’s Day Video Tribute
Publish Date: Jun 18, 2009
Steven Curtis Chapman fans displayed “a father’s love” for their children in a special Father’s Day video tribute that features Chapman’s hit single “Cinderella”. Fans were encouraged to submit family photos and as a result, over 150 photos were chosen to create two heart-warming videos on animoto.com. To view these unique Father’s Day tributes visit the YMZ Media section. In addition, everyone is invited to create his or her own Father’s Day video to “Cinderella” by visiting here.
“Cinderella”, inspired by Chapman’s youngest daughters Stevie Joy and Maria Sue, is a song that reflects how we must cherish every moment we are given with those that we love, especially with our children. Chapman reminds us that life is too short and too fast; to take hold of the small and large moments that occur throughout life because “all too soon the clock will strike midnight, and she’ll be gone” (lyrics from Cinderella).
The song can be found on This Moment, This Moment Special Edition and This Moment: Cinderella Edition. Hear the story behind the song as told by Steven in the YMZ Media section (it is at the very bottom).
Fee Unveils Sophomore Project “Hope Rising” On October 6th
Publish Date: Jun 18, 2009
After a stellar debut, Fee is prepping to release their sophomore album titled Hope Rising with the first single “Glory to God Forever” going for adds at radio on June 19th.
“We are thrilled that the success of the first record is giving us a platform with Hope Rising to inject God into the equation of tragedy and uncertainty going on in the world,” says front man Steve Fee.
The band’s second project comes after much acclaim from their freshman album We Shine which garnered a no. 1 radio smash hit in “All Because of Jesus”, a Worship Leader Praise Award for “Breakout Artist” and four GMA Dove Award nominations including a nod in the “New Artist of the Year” category.
Produced by Jason Hoard and lead singer Steve Fee, the Atlanta-based foursome’s newest release contains twelve original tracks. Though the band continued with their signature worship sound on the record, Hope Rising also includes statement songs that the band hopes will transcend one style of music. It was after recording tracks such as “Everything Falls” and “Promised Land”, that the group decided on the title Hope Rising. In fact, the song “Arms that Hold the Universe” was born out of a concert the band did shortly after the March church shooting in Maryville, Illinois for the congregation as a message reminding listeners that when you factor in God to any circumstance, you will find hope.
As for the band’s first single, Steve says, “There is a message for us here in this era and period in church history. I’m confident that songs which echo the victory of Christ are exactly what we, the Church, want to say and God, in his timely way, put songs in us like ‘Glory To God Forever’.”
This summer, Fee will also participate in some of the country’s biggest festivals including Atlanta Fest, Creation East and Unity Festival. For the band’s most updated touring schedule, please visit their website, www.feeband.com.
About Fee
From national worship conferences to local youth group meetings, Fee has brought a new level of abandon and talent to rock worship, gifting today’s church with riveting songs of praise. Known for amazing live performances and the No. 1 hit “All Because of Jesus” plus “Glorious One”, and Christmas song “All Creation Sing (Joy To The World)”, Fee continues to inspire the church musically with this all-new release of soon-to-be modern classics. The band has been associated with some of today’s most forthcoming faith-based events including Passion, 7:22 and Catalyst conferences. Fee released their debut INO project and GMA Dove Award nominated We Shine in September 2007. The band’s hit single “All Because of Jesus” also garnered the No. 10 spot on R&R’s AC Songs of the Year. Fee Front man Steve Fee was also selected to lead worship at the 92nd annual Indianapolis 500 chapel services in 2008, the biggest event of the Indy Car Series. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Steve Fee, Matt Adkins, Heath Balltzglier and Brandon Coker still lead worship at the North Point Community Church.
Stay tuned to YMZ as we will bring up further updates on Hope Rising. Check out their debut, We Shine, on the band’s YMZ artist page. It is available at your local Canadian Christian retailer.
Melinda Watts, the season three winner of Gospel Music Channel’s popular reality talent search series, Gospel Dream, will fulfill her life long dream as she is set to release her first album this summer. Signed with Razor & Tie Entertainment for a worldwide multi-album deal, Watt’s debut album, People Get Ready, will be released nation-wide on July 28th.
Born in New Jersey and hailing from Sacramento, California, Watts began singing at the age of six. Her powerhouse vocals and warm bravado have captured the hearts of millions of fans, when she won the American Idol®-esque show. Influenced by legends CeCe Winans, Natalie Grant and Shirley Caesar, Melinda shares a love of music and her church.
People Get Ready is a bright and dynamic album that showcases Watts’ vibrant vocals along with strong contemporary production. The celebratory first single, “So Good”, has already made waves at Gospel radio and is upbeat pop track that absolutely defies you to get up and dance.
Slick grooves, hopeful lyrics, and an exuberant vibe are interwoven throughout People Get Ready, which recalls other leading ladies of urban gospel like Mary Mary and Kierra Sheard. From the explosive, dance-friendly tracks of “Say Yes”, and “Happy” to intimate worship songs like “Available To You”, a duet with J Moss, and wonderful rendition of “Faith”, there is no doubt as to why Watts won over judges and audiences alike.
Watts will be set out on a promotional tour this summer in support of the release with stops in New York, Atlanta, Chicago and Philadelphia. She’s already been chosen to tape an upcoming episode BET’s “Lift Every Voice”, and will be a part of the Gospel Music Channel’s Gospel Dream 2009 season set to start airing in June.
“I’ve always had a love of music and I have been singing in church my whole life,” Watts explains. “God’s grace brought me here. A lot of faith in God and remembering that it’s okay to dream even when you feel you can’t.”
Watts, a former high school English teacher and active member of her Sacramento community, started the non-profit organizations Project Sunday and Heaven’s House to address the great need for mentoring and ministering to young women in her community.
Melinda Watts is managed by Mitchell Solarek of Maximum Artist Management.
Preview the tracks that are mentioned in the article by visiting Watt’s YMZ artist page.
Staci Frenes’ “What I Won’t Leave Without” Resonates On Radio And With Churches
Publish Date: Jun 17, 2009
The second single from acclaimed singer/songwriter, Staci Frenes’Meteor Shower CD, “What I Won’t Leave Without”, is currently sitting at #18 on the AC charts and #6 on CHR formats, and is connecting with both radio and live audiences nation-wide.
Already in rotation in several church worship music repertoires, as well as hundreds of radio stations across the nation, the driving pop/rock anthem expresses Frenes’ longing and persistence to encounter God. “Wherever I sing this song, I am seeing this hunger resonate with other believers. We are not playing church when we gather; we want see God and hear what He has to say to us, nothing less,” says Frenes.
Frenes’ home church of Cornerstone Fellowship in Livermore, CA, a non-denominational church of 5,000+ where Staci periodically leads worship, added “What I Won’t Leave Without” to its weekend worship song list earlier this year. “The song connected with our fellowship from the first time Staci led it in worship,” says worship director, Scott Haus. Frenes, the sole songwriter, is offering the song (in mp3 or .wav format) and chord chart as free downloads for worship pastors who would like to lead it at their own church. Download the resources here.
“Of all the songs on this new CD, this is the one I think people want to sing for themselves, to repeat as a prayer. David’s words. ‘as the deer pants for water, so my soul longs after You’ are ones we all echo within our spirit; this song has that same sense of yearning. I love that people are connecting with it so deeply.”
Staci and Band performed the song at Live From Studio B recently. You can view the video here.
Meteor Shower, together with Nothing Short Of Amazing, is available at Christian retailers across Canada. Check them out on Frenes’ YMZ artist page.
Sunday, June 7th marked the inauguration of the Viewer’s Choice Award winner for the 2009 REAL LIFE Film Festival du cinéma C’EST LA VIE, a new film event that took place June 5th-7th, 2009 in Sudbury, Ontario.
Organized by La Porte des Eaux / The Water Gate, this festival featured more than 15 award-winning films, shorts and documentaries. These unique gems surprised and delighted guests of all ages.
“The REAL LIFE Film Festival has brought a collection of faith-based, inspirational, family-friendly and engaging films to Sudbury,” commented Lina Madore, Director of La Porte des Eaux. “From the quality of films, to the guest professional musician emcees, to the outstanding community and business support – this event surpassed our expectations.
Throughout the weekend, cinephiles tracked their favourites and by Sunday, June 7th, the votes were tabulated, culminating in the selection of the 2009 Viewer’s Choice Award recipient: Faith Like Potatoes. This South African film is winner of many international awards, including the winner of Best Supporting Actor and Best Editing (Golden Horn 06), the Golden Ten Award, Feature Fiction (Mumbai International FICTS Festival), and People’s Choice Award (SABAOTH International Film Festival).
The runner up film was Bella, the REAL LIFE Film Festival Gala feature film, and winner of the Toronto International Film Festival People’s Choice Award.
Third place was Fireproof, winner of Best Feature Film (San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival), $100,000 Epiphany Prize (17th Annual Movieguide Faith & Values Awards Gala), and Best Drama (The Dove Foundation’s Crystal Seal Awards).
Based on the success of this event, Madore is already making plans for 2010. “We have received tremendous positive feedback, and know that the time is right, not just for Sudbury, but for Canada. There is a need, and even a voiced demand, for faith-based, inspirational and family-friendly films. The REAL LIFE Film Festival could be just the vehicle to answer that call.”
Mike Weaver’s Second “90in09” Feature To Broadcast This Wednesday On The 700 Club
Publish Date: Jun 16, 2009
The second of a three-part story featuring Big Daddy Weave’sMike Weaver and his “90 in ‘09” weight loss challenge is scheduled to broadcast this Wednesday, June 17th on CBN’s nationally syndicated program, The 700 Club.
Since its launch at the beginning of 2009, Weaver has lost 45 lbs through a diet, exercise and mentoring program created by 90in09 support team members Dr. Asa Andrew, known as “America’s Health Coach®” and Scott Reall, author and founder of the YMCA’s Journey to Freedom program.
“Midway through this journey to lose 90 lbs in 2009 I find myself plateaued at 45 lbs down,” says Weaver. “This has been the most trying part of the journey yet. I’ve been fighting the discouragement and disappointment of feeling stuck!
“Yet in the middle of the frustration I’ve been so encouraged by the support of my friends and the voice of God, cheering me on to obedience despite what I see on the scale. I fully believe that I’ll reach this year’s goal, but am so glad to learn that weight loss is not nearly as important as simple obedience!”
Since its launch at the beginning of 2009, nearly 10,000 individuals from across the nation have joined the 90 in ‘09 campaign to start a healthier lifestyle. In addition to joining the health initiative at www.90in09.com and tracking their successes, participants further have access to healthy food recipes, exercise techniques and more wellness information.
Obesity is the second leading cause of preventable death after smoking, according to a CDC report, and is associated with type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, coronary artery disease, arthritis, gallstones and certain types of cancer. Andrew further explains that 80% of health challenges people face today are diet and lifestyle related. Other statistics show that 65% of Americans are overweight while 35% are clinically obese.
For information on The 700 Club broadcast times, visit www.cbn.com/700club or check your local listings.
Check out the new and improved Candian Christian radio station listings in the YMZ Media section.
If there is not a station near you, many of the stations listed can be heard online. Discover great new music via the airwaves and find outmore about the artists here on YMZ. Music from the artists listed on YMZ can be found at your local Canadian Christian retailer.
Word Records’ rock newcomers Remedy Drive are currently celebrating their sixth week at the top of the CHR chart with their breakout single, “All Along”. Their No. 1 slot also marked the last No. 1 song on Radio & Record’s CHR chart (the publication has now been incorporated into Billboard).
The group also recently teamed up with Air 1 and Creation Festival for a unique summer road trip promotion. The winner, from Queen Creek, AZ, was announced yesterday and will be flown to Seattle, where they will then take an RV to complete the road trip to Creation Festival in Washington state. For more details, check it out here.
Remedy Drive’s 2009 Summer Tour Schedule:
June 18: Atlantafest, Stone Mountain, GA
June 19: Alive Festival, Canal Fulton, OH
June 20: Big Ticket Festival, Gaylord, MI
June 24: Creation Northeast, Shirleysburg, PA
July 3: Cornerstone Festival, Marietta, IL
July 9: King’s Fest, Doswell, VA
July 10: King’s Island, Cincinnati, OH
July 11: Lifest, Oshkosh, WI
July 16: Sonshine Festival, Willmar, MN
July 19: Hills Alive Festival, Rapid City, SD
July 22: Creation Northwest, George, WA
July 31: SoulFest, Gilford, NH
August 1: Rock The Sound, New York, NY
August 5: Kingdombound Festival, Darien Center, NY
August 6: UnityFest, Muskegon, MI
August 15: NewSong Festival, Leitchfield, KY
September 5: Lifelight, Sioux Falls, SD
September 11: Rock The Universe, Orlando, FL
September 26: AwakeningFest, Leesburg, VA
For more information on Remedy Drive and their debut release Daylight Is Coming, please visit their YMZ artist page.
These titles are now available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the June New Music Tuesday poster. Also, visit the YMZ Music section to check out other upcoming releases.
pureNRG Poised To Release Fourth Studio Album “The Real Thing” On July 14th
Publish Date: Jun 15, 2009
Christian music’s favourite tween group, pureNRG, is scheduled to release their fourth studio album (including a Christmas album) on Fervent Records, July 14th. The Real Thing was once again produced by the winning team of Rob Hawkins (Jackson Waters) and Mark Hammond (Everlife, Cheetah Girls, Ashley Tisdale).
“It’s unbelievable that we’re already releasing our fourth studio album this summer,” says pureNRG. “We had fun recording the new CD and think that our fans will like it. We can’t wait to start performing the new songs for everyone on our upcoming tour dates.”
The new project showcases upbeat dance numbers and ballads that spotlight the strong vocals of pureNRG, while also displaying a new maturity for the three members. (Jordan is now 16, Caroline, 14 and Carolyne, 13). The album has ten new songs with three sing-a-long versions of “Here We Go Again”, “Footloose”, and the new up-tempo, “Radio”, which explains how the airwaves brings Christ’s love through music and beams it across the world. The title track is a tribute to how Jesus is the real thing, the touching ballad, “Before The Sun Goes Down”, details how each of us should repent our sins before the day is done, with another ballad, “Sweet Jesus”, exalting Jesus as our refuge and friend. “Cover Of A Magazine”, tells the listener to put their self-worth in Christ instead of what’s popular in modern culture.
Fervent Records is offering exclusive pre-sale promotions in conjunction with The Real Thing. Fans can purchase advance autographed copies of the album at pureNRG’s website, or buy “The Real Thing” bundle that includes a t-shirt and poster along with the new CD. “The Real Thing” Summer Fun Pack is a must for any tween, besides the autographed CD, poster, and t-shirt, fans will receive a pureNRG multi-coloured beach ball, beach towel and purple sunglasses.
pureNRG just returned from their first international tour in Norway and did four performances for the Soul Children’s Festival. It was an educational event with 1,500 school age children from Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Ireland who were taught new music under several different conductors. pureNRG provided entertainment for the festival with three performances at the Konserthuset, which is similar to a performing arts centre and once at Jernbanetorget, which is an outdoor mall. While in the country, pureNRG also got to do some sightseeing with a tour of the Royal Palace and a beautiful boat ride in the city of Oslo.
pureNRG has a busy schedule ahead of them that includes the Creation West Festival in July, a second appearance in August at the American Airlines Center in Dallas at a Ringling Brother’s Circus event and a missions trip to Mexico in October.
For all updates on pureNRG please visit their website, www.pureNRGonline.com, where fans can also register for a free clubNRG user account. The account offers exclusive videos, photos, giveaways and discounts to the pureNRG store while interacting with other fans on the website. You can get a sneak peek of “Live To Worship” on the group’s YMZ artist page.
Bema Media has announced the signings of singer-songwriter Lara Landon and Canadian rockers Manic Drive, whose upcoming album will be released through a partnership with Whiplash Records. With these new acquisitions, Bema Media is expanding beyond their current teen/tween roster that includes such popular acts as Mission Six, Jasmine, The Rubyz and the iShine Tour. Manic Drive’s latest release Blue will hit stores on August 18th, followed by Landon’s debut album Beloved on September 22nd.
As one of Canada’s most popular Christian bands, Manic Drive earned a record seven GMA Canada Covenant Award nominations this year, taking home two awards for Rock Album of the Year and Video of the Year. Their hit single “Blue” is the first single from the upcoming album, and the accompanying music video has climbed to #2 on Gospel Music Channel’s rock video chart. Manic Drive will be touring throughout the summer, including main stage performances at Ichthus Festival, SoulFest, Uprise Festival, Unity Christian Music Festival, Rock the Desert and JoshuaFest. They will be appearing at the Oakville Waterfront Festival in Ontario on June 28th. Check the YMZ Concert listings for more details.
Lara Landon’s debut album was produced by multiple GRAMMY® Award winning producer Michael Omartian (Christopher Cross, Amy Grant, Whitney Houston, Rod Stewart). Landon’s songs are full of life and meaning, and Omartian helped to find the right combination of sweeping string arrangements and quiet piano to create the perfect background for Landon’s musings about the grandeur and the intimacy of a relationship with a loving God. With instant comparisons to artists like Plumb, Imogen Heap and Tori Amos, Landon’s debut is certain to resonate with listeners looking for music that means something.
Manic Drive recently appeared at the Dog & Pony Show during GMA Music Week in Nashville. View photos from the event in the YMZ Photo Gallery. Preview snippets from several tracks off Blue on the band’s YMZ artist page.
Matt Maher Releases Sophomore Project “Alive Again” September 22nd
Publish Date: Jun 15, 2009
“John Eldridge said, ‘You can sum up the Bible in two words: come closer.’ That’s what I hope these songs do – bring people closer to Christ.” Matt Maher
Worship artist and renowned songwriter Matt Maher, whose breakout composition, “Your Grace is Enough” appeared on his 2008 debut Empty & Beautiful, recently completed recording his widely-anticipated follow-up Alive Again set to release September 22nd.
Photo By: Tec Petaja
Alive Again, Maher’s second studio recording with Essential records, solidly captures the penetrating spirit and charisma he has become known for in a live setting. Produced by Christopher Stevens (Delirious?, tobyMac) and Paul Moak (Mat Kearney, CompassionArt), the 12 song album is both immediate and soulful. Matt’s addictive organic-pop sound melded with vulnerable and engaging lyrics make Alive Again a soundtrack for believers in both personal times of worship and corporate moments on Sunday mornings.
“On a musical level, I feel more confident; like I have more freedom to make mistakes and to be more authentic than ever before,” explains Maher. “There’s a certain ‘rawness’ on this album that’s true to who I am and how I communicate.”
Maher has long seen his music born out of community. This time around, in fact, every song on Alive Again was co-written. Featured co-writers include SESAC’s 2008 Christian songwriter of the year Jason Ingram, Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, up-and-coming writer/vocalist Audrey Assad, Mark Byrd (City On A Hill, Common Children, Glassbyrd, Hammock) and Mia Fieldes (Hillsong).
“The process of making the record was a communal experience,” affirms Maher. “The writing process was like prayer between two people as opposed to a typical writing session. ... These songs were not written ‘about’ my faith, but ‘from’ my faith. They’re much more vulnerable and personal.”
The first single “Alive Again” goes for adds on July 3rd. Matt shares, ”’Alive Again’ is my attempt to use language and music in the form of a pop song to re-create the moment when God reached in and grabbed my heart for the very first time.There’s nothing more compelling than waking up in a dark world and knowing that God is fervently pursuing me and shouting my name—even if, at first,I don’t recognize His voice.”
As a poet-musician, “troubadour” is a term readily used to describe the artful theologian. Thematically, Maher explains that his music is about recognizing the pre-eminence of Christ in the world around you.
“You see the light before you see the sunrise,” he says. “God is ahead of us.” Maher also takes a broader view than conventional thinking when it comes to the influence of worship in a person’s life. “I hope Alive Again prompts listeners to stop and ask some tough questions about who they are and where they are letting God maneuver in their hearts,” he says.
Thanks to the international reach of songs he’s written and his recording agreement with Essential Records, the last two years have taken Maher from full-time ministry at his local church in Mesa, Arizona, to a high-profile platform, leading worship around the world. His instant classic, “Your Grace Is Enough” saw especially strong gains in church exposure during the spring and summer of 2008.
According to Christian Copyright Licensing International (CCLI), which tracks the popularity of music in churches across the U.S., “Your Grace Is Enough” was the 13th most popular song sung in churches in the United States for the April to September 2008 tracking period. At the time, the song was sung in nearly 150,000 CCLI licensed churches in the U.S., which translates to more than five million people singing this song.
This summer finds Maher leading worship and performing new songs from Alive Again at the upcoming Worship Leader conference in July, leading worship at the International Christian Retail Show’s Sunday Worship service alongside Anne Graham Lotz and touring Australia before returning home for fall tour dates. Maher is scheduled to appear back in his home and native land the weekend of October 9th for YC Newfoundland. Event details can be found in the YMZ Concert listings.
About Matt Maher:
Matt Maher: worship leader, songwriter, singer and recording artist, has taken his calling as a
“musical missionary” to create a substantial impact on a national and global stage. As an award-winning songwriter, Maher gained notice as the co-writer of the internationally renowned modern-worship song, “Your Grace Is Enough,” recorded by Chris Tomlin.
Highly sought after for his poignant yet poetic writing style, Maher has recently had songs recorded by such artists as Tomlin; Bethany Dillon; Phillips, Craig & Dean; Brenton Brown and others. In addition, Maher’s songs have appeared in the top 15 ranked songs on the CCLI chart, marking their popularity in church worship-services around the world.
Maher’s major label debut, Empty & Beautiful, jump-started his work as a touring artist placing him in front of audiences worldwide, totalling more than 750,000 in 2008 alone. He has shared recent stages with artists such as Tomlin, Leeland, MercyMe, Michael W. Smith and Jeremy Camp, and was featured on the “Worshiptogether.com Live Tour” earlier this year.
His music, writing and live performances are intentional, compelling, experiential and draw people into a community of dependence on Christ. He’s not only a songwriter and worship leader; his ability to communicate allows him to facilitate community at the intersection where culture meets the church.
Amid busy touring and writing schedules, Maher finds it important to serve alongside ministries including Life Teen, Adore Ministries, and Catholic Relief Services while still playing an active role with Oregon Catholic Press’ spiritandsong.com. Further, he serves as a regular host for Worship Together’s “Newsong Café.” Maher, recently honoured with a Praise Award as Worship Leader’s Breakout Artist of 2008, has been featured on the covers of Breakaway and Christian Single, performed live on “FOX & Friends”, written for Billboard Magazine and is an active, by-lined contributor to OnFaith.com, an interactive conversation on religion.
For information on Matt Maher, please visit his YMZ artist page.
Kari Jobe To Appear On The New “700 Club Interactive” On Tuesday, June 16th
Publish Date: Jun 15, 2009
Integrity Music/Gateway Create artist Kari Jobe will appear on “700 Club Interactive”, on Tuesday, June 16th at 9:30 a.m. ET, airing on ABC Family Network.
“700 Club Interactive” is the Christian Broadcasting Network’s new 30-minute show, which extends the brand of its long-running magazine show, “The 700 Club”. The highly interactive program incorporates live chat, utilizes Skype, Facebook and Twitter to connect with its viewers. Jobe performed and was interviewed for the program.
Jobe’s current self-titled hit debut CD includes the radio single and YouTube sensation “I’m Singing” which is currently #11 with a bullet at CRW Inspirational radio. The album was also released to Canadian Christian retailers in Spanish on April 28th.
The child of traveling ministers, Jobe began singing when she was only three and knew by age 10 that she wanted to lead worship. She spent time studying at Oral Roberts University, Christ For The Nations Institute and Dallas Baptist University where she finished her Psychology/Pastoral Ministries degree before joining the Gateway Church staff.
More information on Kari Jobe can be found on her YMZ artist page. Jobe can also be followed on Twitter. YMZ is also on Twitter. Join our growing gang of merry followers here.
On a rainy and cold evening in Buffalo, NY, Robert Randolph & The Family Band rocked at soaked masses gathered at Lafayette Square. The free show was part of Thursday Night In The Square concert series. This was the second time in three years that the band has appeared here.
Part of the “Sacred Steel” movement where Randolph played pedal steel guitar at church in his home state of New Jersey, his pyrotechinics on the pedal steel has taken him to appearances with Eric Clapton and The Blind Boys Of Alabama. The band’s lastest release, Colorblind, features guest appearances by Clapton and Dave Matthews. Visit the band’s YMZ atist page and check out the different CDs that are available at Christian retailers across Canada.
Here are some exclusive photos from the concert [Click image to enlarge].
Robin Mark, VeggieTales®, Skillet and pureNRG Release New Projects This Summer
Publish Date: Jun 12, 2009
Irish worship leader Robin Mark heads a list of new albums releasing this summer.
Mark’s Year Of Grace will following the tradition of Revival In Belfast releasing July 14th. VeggieTales® returns with a brand new Bible story with Minnesota Cuke And The Search For Noah’s Umbrella. The August 1st release will be coupled with a special two DVD deluxe edition and a free “umbrella” premium at select retailers. Hard rock outfit Skillet returns after a nearly three year wait with Awake releasing on August 4th. Select retailers will be offering a free Skillet t-shirt with purchase while quantities last.
After six months at the top of the charts, Michael W. Smith’sA New Hallelujah has displaced by the latest Hillsong United release Across The Earth: Tear Down The Walls.
The latest Hillsong United album follows previous releases from the Australian modern worship group to enter the chart at no. 1, according to statistic based on actual sales during the month of May at Canadian Christian retail charts. Michael W. Smith’s album still remained strong at no. 2 followed closely by the new newsboys album In The Hands Of God which entered the chart at no. 3. Other new entries to the Top 50 chart included Mat Kearney at no. 19, Decyfer Down at no. 22 and Philip LaRue at no. 47.
The chart is based on sales at Canadian Christian retailers for the month of May. Download your own personal copy of the Top 50 CD chart here.
Fireproof Continues Hold On No. 1 DVD Chart For The Fifth Straight Month
Publish Date: Jun 12, 2009
Fireproof continues to sit atop of the Top 25 DVD sales chart based on sales in Christian retail stores across Canada.
The motion picture, which released on DVD in January has been at the no. 1 spot since its release. VeggieTales® Abe And The Amazing Promise stays firm at no. 2 with the new Janette Oke DVD Love Takes Wing entering the chart at no. 3. Faith Like Potatoes remaining strong moving to no. 4.
Other new entries this month include VeggieTales® Heroes Of The Bible: A Baby, A Quest And The Wild West at no. 7 and Third Day’sLive Revelations at no. 11.
The chart is based on sales at Canadian Christian retailers for the month of April. Download your own personal copy of the Top 25 DVD chart here.
Robin Mark To Release “Year Of Grace” On July 14th
Publish Date: Jun 12, 2009
Celebrated Irish worship singer/songwriter Robin Mark offers a Year of Grace, his new Integrity Music CD which releases on July 14th.
Mark, based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, is known for blending traditional Celtic sounds with his passion for modern praise music. He has recorded 13 albums, including the most recent East of the River (2008) and his landmark 1999 recording of Revival in Belfast which remains on the worship charts a decade after its release. His signature song, “Days of Elijah”, has become one of the most sung worship songs ever.
His newest CD is Mark’s first live project recorded in the U.S. Produced by Paul Mills (Bluetree, Lincoln Brewster, Third Day), Year of Grace was recorded in Syracuse, NY at North Syracuse Baptist Church. According to Mark, recording the new CD in the U.S. was first born out of necessity. His home church in Northern Ireland, which had been host to several of his previous recordings, was scheduled to undergo a major renovation and expansion at the same time Mark was planning to record his new album.
Having visited and performed at North Syracuse Baptist last summer, Mark said, “I knew intuitively that the sound and passion of the New York concert crowd, enhanced and charged by the wonderful acoustics of the beautiful sanctuary, would have all the ingredients for a great recording.”
The CD’s title has its own interesting origin. Said Mark, “Coincidentally, one of the New York counties near Syracuse is called ‘Ulster’ and is named after the province of Ireland where in 1859 a year long revival took place. That year, 100,000 people came to Christ and the outpouring dramatically changed the country and that season became known as ‘The Year of Grace’. My CD Year of Grace is in part a celebration of what God did on that occasion 150 years ago, but mainly anticipates what He still can do in any nation of the world.”
The music of Year of Grace is reminiscent of Revival in Belfast, combining powerful worship songs with Mark’s unique Celtic/folk musical style. There are 12 tracks, including songs co-written with Paul Baloche, Vicky Beeching and fellow Irishman Johnny Parks.
Mark will be spending his summer touring the U.S. between June and September, visiting more than 30 U.S. cities and playing Creation Festival in June and Kingdom Bound in August. In late October, he will be appearing at Unite In Worship in Toronto. Information about the event can be found in the YMZ Concert listings. Complete tour information is available at www.robinmark.com.
In addition to the Year of Grace CD, there will be CD Trax, a songbook and CD-ROM songbook. Preview several tracks from the album on Mark’s YMZ artist page.
Christy Nockels’ “Life Light Up” Debuts On SoundScan Chart Top 10 And Sparks Critical Acclaim
Publish Date: Jun 11, 2009
[L-R]: Air1 Morning Show co-hosts Kelli Caldwell and Scott Smith, Christy Nockels, Kristian Stanfill and Nathan Nockels [Click image to enlarge]
Formerly known as the female half of the popular duo Watermark, Christy Nockels solo debut with sixstepsrecord’s Life Light Up has made a top ten debut on the CCM Christian SoundScan charts, top 5 debut on the SoundScan digital album chart, and sparked critical acclaim with media nationwide, as seen in the reviews below:
“Her solo debut favorably melds her veteran experience in leading worship and professional performance It only takes one spin to hear why Nockels is quickly is becoming one of the more popular trademarks in recent CCM history” ChristianityToday.com
“Chris Tomlin has said that Christy Nockels is his favorite vocalist. Not difficult to imagine after listening to Nockels on “Life Light Up.” Her voice is as pure as it is powerful and matches the spirit of each song. “Life Light Up” takes her work as a worship leader to a new level. CCMMagazine.com
“One of the greatest, purest voices in music finally makes her solo debut. There’s no better one to choose than Christy Nockels and the collection served here is simply a very strong release.” SoulAudio.com
During street week, the sixstepsrecords worship artist was busy on a radio promo tour visiting Sacramento and Nockels hometown of Tulsa, where over 600 fans showed up on the riverfront to support her. In Sacramento, Nockels, along with labelmates Chris Tomlin and Kristian Stanfill, spent time on the air at K-LOVE and Air1 supporting her debut.
Everyday Sunday And Glenn Packiam Featured On HearItFirst.ca
Publish Date: Jun 11, 2009
This week’s premieres include pop-rock outfit from Ohio and a member of the Desperation Band.
Following its hit-filled Inpop Records debut, which produced Radio & Records’ 2007 Rock Song of the Year (Wake Up! Wake Up!) as well as two No. 1 radio singles, Ohio-based Everyday Sunday returns with an all-new offering, Best Night Of Our Lives.
Produced by Mark Lee Townsend (Relient K, Jennifer Knapp, O.C. Supertones) and mixed by JR McNeely (Paramore, Jeremy Camp, tobyMac), the project finds Everyday Sunday exploring a more aggressive rock approach with booming sounds, high-energy vocals and bold lyrics.
The disc includes the title track “Best Night Of Our Lives” about life-long friendship, “Breathing For Me”, an anthem of surrender, the passionate plea “Where I Ended”, and acoustic song, “Here With Me”, among others.
A festival favourite and Acquire The Fire touring artist, Everyday Sunday will encourage fans to rock across the nation this summer.
New from Desperation Band’sGlenn Packiam comes his solo debut album Rumors And Revelations featuring a collection of fresh new worship songs and well-loved favourites.
The songwriter of top CCLI songs such as “My Savior Lives”, “Your Name” and “Everyone”, Glenn is also an accomplished author. His latest book, Secondhand Jesus… Trading Rumors Of God For A Firsthand Faith will release simultaneously with this new album.
With songs that compliment various chapters in the book, Rumors And Revelations will challenge you to crush mistakenly held rumors about God and enter into an authentic experience of Christ’s power first-hand.
Specially priced at $12.99, Best Night Of Our Lives will be arriving at your local Canadian Christian retailer this Tuesday, June 16th while Rumors And Revelations will be available on Tuesday, June 23rd. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.
Everyday Sunday “Best Night Of Our Lives” Song Stories
Publish Date: Jun 11, 2009
Everyday Sunday’s lastest project, Best Night Of Our Lives, will be available at Canadian Christian retailer this coming Tuesday. Here are the stories behind the songs as told by lead vocalist Trey Pearson.
Best Night Of Our Lives
“Best Night of Our Lives” is a fun song about having a good time. More specifically, though, it’s about all my friends back home and, in particular, one of my best friends who moved away. It’s a song that has to do with everyone’s lives and change and moving on. Whether it is someone moving to another city, graduation, or a new phase in life, we need each other, and we should make the most of what God gives us.
Under Your Thumb
This song is about someone who wants to blame all their problems in life on somebody else. It’s about taking responsibility for one’s decisions. God has given each of us a choice how we are going to live…whether we live for him and trust that His way is best for us, or choose to do it our own way. He’s given us all free will.
Lies and Fear Go Hand In Hand
I started writing this song after seeing some of my peers trying hard to be something they are not. They compromise everything they stand for and believe in to try and fit in. It’s difficult to watch because I care so much about these people and don’t want to see them go through it.
Breathing For Me
“Breathing For Me” is about letting go and having faith when you know you can’t do everything yourself. It’s about turning from where you’ve messed up and letting God take control of your life even when you don’t know all the answers.
Where I Ended
This song is about seeing God come through, blessing us, and changing our lives when we don’t deserve it. Everything we have has nothing to do with us or what we’ve done, but God choosing to save us in spite of all our shortcomings.
Figure It Out
This is the first real love song I’ve written. I started writing it for my fiancé after we got engaged, and the first time I played it for her was at our wedding. We recorded it shortly after for this album.
Pity The Man Who Falls and Has No One To Help Him Up
The name of this song comes from the book of Ecclesiastes in the Old Testament. It’s about the importance of friendship and how much we need each other to get through life. I believe with all my heart that God put us on this journey to sharpen each other and to help each other through it.
Come Around
The inspiration behind this song is pretty sensitive. I wrote it about a younger guy from my home church who lost his father as a teenager. I cannot begin to imagine how tough that is or what that feels like. I just wanted him to know how much God loves him, and how I, and so many people, care about him, and that we’re here for him.
Here With Me
I was inspired to write this song while backpacking with a bunch of friends down in Red River Gorge (in the Appalachian Mountains). One night we were reading out of Job 38 about how Job’s life was being destroyed all around him. Job wasn’t angry with God, but he questioned God why it was all happening, and God, in turn, asked Job why he would ever question Him. It just made me think about how huge God is and how sometimes we just need to let go and trust Him.
In The End
This song is about repentance and how much sin destroys our lives. When you realize how much God’s done for you, and you believe in Him as your Savior, you can’t keep living in all that junk. We realize how much more God wants for us, and we give it all up to God.
Check out the album and find out more about the band on their YMZ artist page.
GMA’s Immerse Talent Competition To Offer Great Prizes
Publish Date: Jun 11, 2009
American Idol® winner Kris Allen is not the only new artist going to Disney World. Later this summer, Walt Disney World will award a Disney Best of Show winner at the Gospel Music Association’s Immerse, the Christian music industry’s premier training experience and talent competition, sending the winner to Orlando to perform at the park’s annual “Night of Joy” concert in September.
Another aspiring artist will score a development deal with rising independent and Word-distributed label Centricity Records; a missions-minded artist will find themselves on a mission trip with Compassion International and a songwriter who best captures the Scripture in music will be honoured by the American Bible Society.
These are the highlights of the prizes to be handed out at Immerse as a part of the talent competition held in Nashville July 29th to August 2nd. The first step to winning the valuable prizes is registering for the artist and song-writing competitions by the June 30 deadline. All the detailed information Immerse is available at http://www.experienceimmerse.com Follow GMA’s Immerse on Twitter at http://twitter.com/GMAimmerse.
Christian artists, songwriters, worship leaders, music business professionals and those that want to be someday will gather at Immerse, a four-day event during which registrants will train with the industry’s most influential professionals, leading artists and songwriters, connect with top music insiders and others who share a passion for God and music; compete in Christian music’s official talent competition and enjoy exclusive music opportunities that only Nashville can offer, including the valuable prize packages.
The sponsor prizes are exclusive to GMA’s Immerse and give winners unique opportunities to move their careers forward in the areas of performing, recording and serving. The key prizes are:
Walt Disney World Best in Show. One artist finalist will be selected to receive a performance slot at the “Night of Joy” event at the Walt Disney World Resort, September 11-12, 2009 in Florida, performing on the same stage as Jars of Clay, Chris Tomlin, P.O.D., Superchick, Newsboys, Kutless, Leeland and Flyleaf. The prize includes a vacation package for the winning artist, including accommodations at a select Walt Disney World Resort hotel, airfare, Disney theme park tickets and Night of Joy tickets.
Centricity Music Development Deal. A winner will be chosen to receive a development deal with the Word-distributed. Centricity Music is an independent, family owned, full-service music company with offices in Seattle and Nashville and whose artist roster includes former GMA competition winner Circleside. The agreement will include music and career advice and council, song consultation, demo recordings, and potential expansion into an exclusive recording or publishing contract.
American Bible Society (ABS) Scripture Song Awards. Three overall SONGS chosen from the amateur, semi-pro, and professional non-artist classes will receive a personalized Bible from ABS, and one Steuben Crystal Award.
Compassion International Missions Experience. One competing artist will be chosen to receive an all-expense paid ministry trip to a Compassion International destination. This trip provides a great opportunity to explore the practical integration of music and ministry. This winner will be chosen by Compassion representatives through advance interviews with competitors that already have a heart for ministry.
The talent competitions are one of the highlights of Immerse.The Immerse Artist of 2009 National Competition is the Christian music industry’s official talent competition for unsigned acts. At the National Competition which is inclusive of all musical styles and genres of Christian music, Immerse contestants will be judged by Nashville music executives and popular Christian music artists as they compete for the grand prize titles for Solo 2009, Group 2009 and Band 2009.
The Immerse Song of 2009 National Competition awards grand prize titles, including Song of 2009, and the ABS Scripture Song of 2009. Songs of all musical styles and genres with Christian lyrical content are accepted in the competition and are judged based upon the excellence of song-writing skills within the musical style. The overall song categories are divided by class based upon level of song-writing experience and are given for Amateur, Semi-Pro and Professional Non-Artist classes. The deadline to compete in either the Song or Artist competitions is June 30.
In addition to competitions and prizes, at the heart of Immerse are the unparalleled opportunities to attend seminars taught by artists and other industry professionals, which cover everything from getting signed by a label to performance techniques to tools for song-writing. Aspiring songwriters and artists can also have their song or demo tapes professionally critiqued. Topics will cover marketing, promotion, radio, A&R, management, publishing, PR, legal and more. The classes will also focus on the roles of an artist/songwriter’s team for those who are interested in management, booking, promotion and more. In addition to the classes and competitions, Immerse takes full advantage of its location in Music City with many opportunities to hear music and hear from the artists creating it, along with a field trip through Music Row.
Artists including Michael W. Smith, Natalie Grant, Pillar, Aaron Shust, Chris Sligh, Melinda Doolittle, Phil Stacey, Martha Munizzi and Travis Cottrell will all perform and/or teach at Immerse. Professionals such as Mitchell Solarek (manager/Natalie Grant), Laurie Anderson (manager/TobyMac), Brad O’Donnell (A&R, EMI CMG), Chris Blaney (booking agent, Third Coast Artists Agency), Leigh Holt (VP of Branding & Merchandising, Word Records) and author David Nasser are confirmed to participate in GMA’s Immerse. More artists and professionals will continue to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
About GMA:
Founded in 1964, the Gospel Music Association serves as the face and voice for the gospel/Christian music community and is dedicated to exposing, promoting and celebrating the gospel through music of all styles including pop, rock, praise & worship, black gospel, R&B, hip hop, southern gospel, country, and more. The GMA community consists of more than 3,000 members including agents, artists, church leaders, managers, promoters, radio personnel, record company executives, retailers, songwriters and other industry visionaries. The GMA produces the GMA Dove Awards, GMA Music Week and the GMA Academy. For more information, please visit www.gospelmusic.org.
“Don Moen & Friends” Worship Show Launches In Over 150 Markets
Publish Date: Jun 10, 2009
“Don Moen & Friends”, the new syndicated three hour Sunday morning drive time radio show hosted by Platinum®-selling recording artist, songwriter and worship leader Don Moen, launched this past weekend in over 150 U.S. markets, plus internationally in over 20 nations.
The program features new and classic worship music, interviews with leading musical artists, pastors and Christian leaders, and noted personalities, as well as testimonies of how God is working around the globe. This program’s core themes are hope, comfort and encouragement – themes which embody what Don Moen is all about in his ministry, whether on stage or off.
The first show featured encouraging stories of faith by people such as Bart Millard of MercyMe who talked about his relationship with his father, and “The Today Show” hostess Kathie Lee Gifford who shared the story of finding a Bible verse on her son’s Facebook page. In the featured segment “God Will Make a Way”, Moen told of his personal challenges in finding words to comfort a family member in a time of tragedy.
The successful launch was greeted by a chorus of glowing comments from Christian broadcasters:
“I am all for the show. It is something that we (Christian Radio) haven’t been able to capture in ‘worship shows’ before. It combines the encouragement, the stories, and the power that gives worship its life to many of us. By using real people, real stories, and songs that we associate with worship- I think people will feel very comfortable in the arms of God with their ‘worship family.’... We all identify somewhere, and the stories are compelling enough that it keeps you interested, even if your circumstances aren’t near the same. That’s what we long for. Connectivity – with each other – with God.” Chalmer Harper, PD of 88.3 The Wind, Springfield, Missouri
“In a time where we get several prayer requests a week for people who are losing their homes, or have lost a job, we feel so good about being about to provide WGTS 91.9 listeners with something of true lasting value – God’s hope.” Becky Alignay, PD of WGTS, Washington, DC
“Hope, comfort and encouragement is what KTIS/Minneapolis is all about, so adding Don Moen & Friends was the easiest decision I have made in a long time.” Jason Sharpe, PD of KTIS, Minneapolis, Minnesota
“The first time Don Moen ‘stepped up to the plate’ in KSGN’s weekend programming line up he hit a grand slam! After the first broadcast we received enthusiastic response from listeners like ‘Don Moen and Friends was a delight’ and ‘I listened to Don Moen this weekend and I loved the worship music.’ The commentary was so encouraging. When we’re serving our audience well, that’s a good thing. And when Don does all the work and makes it so simple that’s even better! Looking forward to next weekend …and many more to come.” Dawn Hibbard, GM of KSGN, Riverside, California
For more information about Don Moen, visit his YMZ artist page.
New Season Of Gospel Dream Premieres June 24th On GMC
Publish Date: Jun 10, 2009
Gospel Music Channel announced its line-up of celebrity judges and hosts for the fourth season of the network’s popular American Idol®-style talent search series Gospel Dream, to be seen Wednesday nights this summer at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT beginning on June 24th.
The judges who will give one lucky person the chance to live their ‘Gospel Dream’ will be Michelle Williams from the GRAMMY®-winning group Destiny’s Child; one of Gospel music’s most prolific talents, Stellar Award winner J. Moss; and one of the music industry’s most respected executives, Mitchell Solarek. Kimberly Locke, the first American Idol® alumna to debut at #1 on the Billboard charts with a non-Idol single, will serve as co-host with Mike Kasem (MTV’s Top 20 Video Countdown and American Top 10) In addition, two major musical artists will serve as surprise coaches during the season. The theme for the show’s fourth season: The Greatest Inspirational Songs of All Time.
Gospel Dream talent scouts combed the country this spring, auditioned thousands and decided upon the 37 contestants who will have an once-in-a-lifetime chance to pursue their dream of a musical career and do so in front of a national television audience in the fourth season of Gospel Dream. Solo artists between 16-40 years of age, from all genres of Gospel/Christian music styles, including traditional, rock, pop, country and soul will compete. Ten finalists, and ultimately one winner, will be chosen. The winning artist will receive record and music video exposure, among other prizes.
Michelle Williams (Talent Judge)
From the very title of her latest album project, Unexpected, Michelle Williams describes the career she’s enjoyed – first as part of the groundbreaking trio Destiny’s Child with Beyoncé Knowles and Kelly Rowland who rocked the music world globally early in this new millennium with millions of unit sales of their music, multiple Grammys® and a string of #1 records, More recently, Williams became a Grammy® winning artist in her own right with the success of her first solo Gospel album Heart To Yours, which became the best selling Gospel album of 2002.
J. Moss (Talent Judge)
Moss is not only an accomplished artist, he is also part of one of music’s hottest production companies, the three-man team known as PAJAM. He has been the co-writer and/or producer behind some of the biggest artists in both Gospel and secular music for the better part of the last decade, including The Clark Sisters, Hezekiah Walker, N’SYNC, Michelle Williams, Trin-i-tee 5:7, Dru Hill, Boyz II Men and Kelly Price.
Mitchell Solarek (Talent Judge)
Solarek is the founder of Maximum Artist Management, a multi-faceted creative complex that represents a diverse roster of major label artists, songwriters, and producers in a broad genre that includes, pop, rock, country and Christian music clients – among them current Top Female Artist in contemporary Christian music, Natalie Grant.
Kimberly Locke (Co-Host)
Locke sets a standard for the true definition of “versatile artist”. Launching to instant national stardom from the 2003 season of American Idol®, she has since established her remarkable career as a successful singer, songwriter, model, TV personality, and entrepreneur. She has topped Billboard in both AC and Hot Dance formats with hits such as “Change”, “Fall”, and “Band of Gold”.
Mike Kasem (Co-Host)
Hosting comes naturally for Mike Kasem, who first came to win a large fan following among teens in the late 90’s as the host of MTV’s Top 20 Video Countdown. The son of radio and music industry legend, Casey Kasem, Mike has also been heard nationally behind the microphone of both highly popular Casey Kasem weekly syndicated radio programs, American Top 10 and American Top 20.
The Gospel Dream series was created by Executive Producer Elvin Ross who is also the series’ executive producer and musical director. Gospel Music Channel is the fastest-growing network in television and can be seen in 45 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.
Superchick Helps To “Make A Wish” Come True For One Special Fan
Publish Date: Jun 10, 2009
Superchick surprises young fan Stephanie Vorm, who suffers from aplastic anemia, at the Nashville Zoo on Saturday, May 30th.
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The band met with Stephanie and her family for a day of fun arranged by the “Make-A-Wish Foundation”, an organization that helps grant wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions. The eight year-old’s dream was to spend a day with her favourite band, Superchick, whose music played a significant role in getting her through the initial diagnosis and treatment of her illness. Additionally, Superchick was honoured to join Stephanie’s wish granters, Tracy Bossman and Susie Remelius, in presenting Stephanie with the news that her Wish: To Go to Hawaii to Swim with the Dolphins would soon be a reality.
“It was humbling to be part of someone’s wish, and our day with the family was so special for us,” says Superchick’s Tricia Brock. “It’s encouraging to know that there are organizations like Make-A-Wish Foundation making a difference in the world one person at a time. Thanks to Make-A-Wish Foundation for involving us – it was a day we won’t soon forget.”
To learn more about the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Middle Tennessee, visit www.midtnwishes.org.
Matthew West greets Dr. Robert H. Schuller, founding pastor of Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, on Sunday, May 31st, before appearing on “Hour of Power”, the church’s weekly, hour-long service watched by an estimated 20 million viewers. West played three songs during the program, including his hit “The Motions” which is currently No. 1 on the Radio & Records AC Monitored chart a ninth consecutive week. The program will air this Sunday, June 14th. Visit www.crystalcathedral.org/hour_of_power/tvlisting/index.php for worldwide air times.
Live Video Chat With Jonny Diaz This Thursday Night
Publish Date: Jun 10, 2009
Do you want to know more about Jonny Diaz? Are you curious to know what his favourite song is? What about his favourite food, or how he came up with the idea to write his hit song “More Beautiful You”? And why did he choose to pursue music over baseball, anyway?
To find out these answers, to ask a question yourself, and to even catch Jonny playing some of his songs live, join Jonny Diaz on a live video chat this Thursday, June 11th at 7:00 p.m. CDT. All you have to do is just log onto www.JonnyDiaz.com. Don’t miss out on this fun night!
More Beautiful You is now available at Christian retailers across Canada. Check out the album and the story behind it on Diaz’s YMZ artist page. Also, catch the music video, behind the scenes video, and teaching lesson for “More Beautiful You” in the YMZ Media section.
Israel Houghton’s “The Power of One” Worship Leader Edition” Resource Available Today
Publish Date: Jun 09, 2009
Integrity Music announces the release of The Power Of One: Worship Leader Edition, a new product for worship leaders and musicians that features music, video and a variety of resource materials from GRAMMY®, Stellar and Dove Award winning worship artist Israel Houghton.
“This is an incredible resource for churches, small groups… anyone who wants to translate Israel’s songs into a small to medium worship setting,” said Jay King, Vice President of Artist Development/A&R. “It’s a ‘must have’.”
The new, three disc Worship Leader Edition of Houghton’s critically-acclaimed project features the original, full album for The Power of One plus a DVD and a resource-packed, enhanced CD that includes acoustic versions of 11 songs from the original album.
The DVD contains a live performance of acoustic versions of songs from the album. The intimate setting features Houghton on lead vocals/guitar/piano backed by Aaron Lindsey on piano, Akil Thompson on bass and Javier Solis on percussion. In addition, the DVD contains song stories and guitar instructional tutorials hosted by Houghton.
The Worship Leader Edition enhanced CD contains matching, acoustic audio from the DVD plus sheet music, chord charts and lyric text files for all songs.
To help promote this new resource, Integrity is offering free copies of the Worship Leader Edition to worship leaders through a Twitter contest. Additional details are available at twitter.com/integritymusic.
Israel Houghton is a multi-award winning, Gold® selling artist and a worship leader at Houston’s Lakewood Church. He has written or co-written 11 CCLI Top 500 songs, served as worship leader at Hillsong conferences, Franklin Graham crusades and is a featured CompassionArt songwriter and artist. Houghton also ministers through concerts in the U.S. and around the world.
The Power Of One Worship Leader Resource Edition is available at Canadian Christian retailers today. For more information on Resource Discs and the CD, please visit his YMZ artist page.
CD-ROM System Requirements
The CD-ROM will run on computers based on Mac OS X or Windows XP or later. The menu requires an Internet browser with the Adobe Flash Player 8.x or later installed. For best results, Internet Explorer 6.x or later (for Windows machines), and Safari 2.x or later (for Mac OS X machines) is recommended.
These titles are now available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the June New Music Tuesday poster. Also, visit the YMZ Music section to check out other upcoming releases.
Award-winning singer/songwriter and worship leader Don Poythress is slated to bow his Integrity Music debut, Wash Away, June 23rd. Produced by Paul Mills, the contemporary country worship set was recorded live at Nashville’s famed Christ Church and features guest appearances from Ricky Skaggs and Paul Baloche.
Poythress co-wrote 10 of the project’s 12 selections. Highlights of Wash Away include the title-cut “Brand New Day” (with Baloche), “The Faithful Love of Jesus” (with Skaggs), “Call Upon Your Name (Sing of Your Love)”, and “I Will Bless The Lord At All Times”, among other songs. The album concludes with “Joseph”, a Christmas selection Poythress co-penned with Tony Wood.
“The songs for Wash Away weren’t just written in sessions, they were written from my experiences during the past year and come from a very personal place,” said Poythress. “I showed up to a session to write a country song with another writer. I told him what I was going through and we started talking about it and spontaneously began writing. I think I cried the entire time we wrote ‘I Will Bless The Lord At All Times’. I look over the past year and I call that my life song for that period of time.”
“Country music has always captivated me, but the first music I remember learning were worship songs that my mom taught me,” Poythress adds. “I knew when I was young that I was called to play and sing country music.”
Poythress serves as worship leader at Abundant Life Church near Nashville and is an award-winning and sought-after songwriter on Music Row. He has penned selections for Tim McGraw, Clint Black and Travis Tritt, among others. Last year, Poythress received an ASCAP honour for the hit song “Things That Never Cross A Man’s Mind”, which was recorded by Kellie Pickler.
Wash Away will be available as a CD, CD Trax, a songbook and a CD-ROM Digital Songbook. Preview part of the album on Poythress’ YMZ artist page.
New artist Joy Whitlock is headlining the Testify tour as it kicks off June 28th at Cornerstone Festival in Bushnell, IL. The acoustic tour will also introduce audiences to indie duo Carolina Story who are also launching a “Spare Change” campaign to help in sending aide to needy children in Africa. For tour dates please see below.
Whitlock received raving reviews for debut album God And A Girl, which released last fall on INO/Ardent Records. Since then, she has been busy writing music and entertaining audiences across the country. Formerly having toured with mentor Todd Agnew, Whitlock is ready to head back on the road where she will be performing songs from her debut that reveal the struggles she has encountered and how she conquered them through Christ. Carolina Story is comprised of husband and wife duo Emily and Ben Roberts. The Memphis-based band just released their debut album.
Check out God And A Girl, one of the most heartfelt and honest album of 2008 on Whitlock’s YMZ artist page. The album is specially priced at $14.99 at Christian retailers across Canada.
Testify Tour Dates (dates subject to change)
06/28/09 Bushnell, IL @ Cornerstone Festival (The Anchor Stage)
06/29/09 Bushnell, IL @ Cornerstone Festival (Sean Michels Stage)
07/01/09 Bushnell, IL @ Cornerstone Festival (Sean Michels Stage)
07/02/09 Kansas City, MO @ Gashland Presbyterian Church
O7/03/09 Lawton, OK @ TBA
07/04/09 Lawton, OK @ I Love America Celebration (Elmer Thomas Park)
07/05/09 Lennox, SD @ Lennox City Park
07/08/09 Little Rock, AR @ Juanita’s
07/09/09 Pine Bluff, AR @ TBA
07/12/09 Bryant, AR Brand @ New Church
07/15/09 Nashville, TN @ The Anchor Fellowship
07/16/09 Murfreesboro, TN @ World Outreach Church
07/17/09 Kingston Springs, TN @ Red Tree Coffee
07/18/09 Jackson, TN Town @ Central Associated Building
08/01/09 Macon, GA @ The 567 Café
08/02/09 Athens, GA @ TBA
Mat Kearney “City Of Black & White” Song Stories, Part IV
Publish Date: Jun 08, 2009
Go behind the scenes with Mat Kearney as he talks about the making of his forthcoming May 19th release, City Of Black & White. Click here for the final part of this four-week series.
Check out audio samples for all the songs on City Of Black & White and the story behind it at the Kearney’s YMZ artist page. The album is now at available your local Canadian Christian retailer.
Phillips, Craig & Dean “Revelation Song” Story Behind The Song Now Online
Publish Date: Jun 08, 2009
A crumbling economy, wars without end, new health risks, security threats, and more. The media gives us a constant stream of reasons to be afraid. But what if God’s people shined a light of eternal hope right into the face of this world’s temporary circumstances? That’s the compelling idea behind Fearless, the tenth studio album from one of today’s most respected Christian vocal groups, Phillips, Craig & Dean.
Uniquely gifted and positioned in their dual roles as musicians and full-time senior pastors in three different U.S. cities, Randy Phillips, Shawn Craig and Dan Dean know well the current struggles people face and are boldly taking the opportunity to respond to them in life and song. Produced by Bernie Herms, Fearless features instantly sing-able melodies, including the current radio hit and worship classic-in-the making “Revelation Song”.
Check out the video story behind the song in the YMZ Media section. Fearless will be available at your local Canadian Christian retailer on August 4th.
Carried Away And Jade Harrell Featured On HearItFirst.ca
Publish Date: Jun 05, 2009
This week’s premieres include a Canadian trio’s thrid offering and a funky cool new artist on GRITS’ record label.
Multiple GMA Canada Covenant Award winning Carried Away returns with a new sound and a new member. Tyler Seidenberg joined the group in the summer of 2008 and has been touring extensively across Canada and the United States adding a new dimension to the group’s trademark pop-harmony sound.
Carried Away’s debut album was the biggest selling new artist of the year when it released and the group has continued to build a solid following across the country. Their new album No Compromise sees the trio continue to mature and explore new musical territory.
Carried Away has opened for Casting Crowns, Avalon and many others and will once again zig-zag across Canada throughout 2009 in support of the new album.
Nashville based label RevolutionArt moves forward with its mission to “usher in the next generation of artist” with its latest signing, 19 year-old singing sensation Jade Harrell.
The soulful singer from Jacksonville, FL began her solo career at age five, singing regularly for her home church. Growing up with a love of all genres of music, Jade’s influences include Brandy, Trin-i-Tee 5:7, and Michael Jackson. This is evident on her eclectic debut album, Class Reject.
The album’s funk and techno elements combine with danceable melodies to make Class Reject a must-have for anyone’s summer fun music collection.
Guest artists appearing on the album include Coffee and Bonafide from GRITS, Ayiesha Woods and Stefan The Scientist.
A refreshing new voice on the emerging Christian music scene, Jade Harrell is definitely one to watch.
Specially priced at $12.99, Class Reject is now available. No Compromise will specially priced at $14.99 AND will have the Staff Pick: No Risk Music Guarantee sticker. If for any reason you do not like this CD, you may exchange it for another title priced at $19.99 or less. It will be arriving at your local Canadian Christian retailer this Tuesday, June 9th. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.
Jade Harrell’s debut release Class Reject arrived at Canadian Christian retailers this week. It is a mix of funk and techno elements with danceable melodies to make Class Reject a must-have for anyone’s summer fun music collection (we are tapping our feet here).
Into the Music (J. Harrell, M. Taylor, S. Ross, T. Carter)
Music is something that surrounds me constantly. It is one of the most consistent things in my life, and on occasion, I have
to allow myself to get lost in it!
Me and My Radio (J. Harrell, M. Taylor, E. Johnson)
The world makes us feel that in order to have a good time, we have to pop bottles all night and tear up the clubs. I have an
awesome time all by myself, and I don’t need a club to have fun.
Who You Are (M. Henderson, J. Harrell, A. Woods)
Growing pains sometimes cause us to lose ourselves and forget who we are. But it’s a beautiful thing when you finally
discover who you are.
The UnSeen (J. Harrell, M. Taylor, E. Johnson)
The grass may seem greener on the other side, but it’s not worth your soul to compromise who you are for a taste of the
world.
Say Goodbye (J. Harrell, M. Henderson)
True love isn’t hurtful and lustful. If someone can’t give you more than that, you have to say goodbye and move on.
Rain (M. Henderson, S. Moss, J. Harrell)
Even in the midst of your most painful storm, God has a plan for you and wants to show himself strong in your life. Our
lives are in His hands, we have to let go and trust Him.
Don’t Leave (M. Henderson, J. Harrell)
I am nothing without God. If He ever took His love away, I’d be begging and pleading for Him to give it back!
You and I (M. Henderson, J. Harrell)
This is a fun flirty song expressing the romantic feelings I have towards someone special.
Addicted (J. Harrell, M. Taylor, S. Ross, S. Jones)
In this song, I express how I’m addicted to God’s love using musical terms to describe my addiction.
Broken (J. Harrell, M. Henderson, H. Miller)
This song was an expression of how I felt during a time in which situations and circumstances caused me to feel damaged
and alone inside. It is a cry to God for help.
What A Fool Believes (Michael McDonald/Kenny Loggins)
A remake of the Doobie Brothers’ “What A Fool Believes”, it tells a story of a man who can’t forget about a woman from
his past.
King of My Heart (L. Brantley, R. Benjamin, J. Harrell)
We’ll never find a love like Jesus Christ. His love in unconditional, and that’s why we worship Him.
Only Human (J. Harrell, M. Henderson)
“Only Human” is about not wanting what the world has to offer because it changes constantly. To be human means that we
make mistakes, but we are made perfect through Jesus Christ.
Class Reject is featured on HearItFirst.ca together with Carried Away, chek out this funky fresh CD and other recent releases.
Music Row Toasts Chris Sligh For Rascal Flatts’ 10th Chart-Topper “Here Comes Goodbye”
Publish Date: Jun 05, 2009
An enthusiastic crowd invaded Cabana in Nashville on Tuesday, June 2nd to celebrate Rascal Flatts’ chart-topper, “Here Comes Goodbye”. Co-written by Chris Sligh and Clint Lagerberg, the song helped make the trio’s latest album, Unstoppable, the top-selling album in the country, with more than 350,000 copies sold in the first week alone.
Pictured are (l-r): Rascal Flatts’ Joe Don Rooney and Jay DeMarcus; Brentwood Benson Music Publishing’s Dale Mathews; co-writer Chris Sligh; Brentwood Benson Music Publishing’s Stacey Willbur; Rascal Flatts’ Gary LeVox; BMI’s Clay Bradley and Beth Mason [Photo by Kay Williams. Click image to enlarge]
Produced by Dann Huff, “Here Comes Goodbye” is the first no. 1 for both Sligh and Lagerberg, who were also nominated for a GMA Dove Award for Song of the Year this year with Sligh’s hit single “Empty Me”. Sligh first turned heads as a contestant in the sixth season of American Idol®, and then became one of the best-selling new artists in the industry, also recently being nominated for a Dove Award for New Artist of the Year.
Sligh’s debut CD, Running Back To You, became one of the best-selling Christian album on iTunes® it’s first week in 2008. The project also wowed critics from USA Today to CCMmagazine.com. It also had the highest debut on Christian SoundScan in it’s first week. Named as one of Entertainment Weekly’s “Best Idol® Auditions Ever” (video footage http://www.ew.com/ew/gallery/0,,20007164_20008532_20174767,00.html” target=”_blank”>here), Sligh auditioned for American Idol® more or less on a whim. To his surprise, his performance swept him onto a fast track to the final rounds. His willingness to take chances, his ironic wit, and his startlingly powerful vocals embedded him into the popular imagination, while his distinctive blend of talent, humour, confidence, and unpredictability led to an exchange with Simon Cowell that delighted the other judges, host Ryan Seacrest, and much of America. An official American Idol® commentator for Entertainment Weekly online during season seven, Sligh operated on a three-week rotating schedule with two other commentators (Jon Peter Lewis and Nadia Turner), and wrote funny and informative commentaries through the lens of his experiences on American Idol®.
For more information on Sligh, please visit his YMZ artist page.
Jason Crabb To Make Multiple Appearances At 2009 CMA Music Fest
Publish Date: Jun 05, 2009
Award-winning Spring Hill recording artist Jason Crabb is set to make multiple appearances at the 2009 CMA Music Fest – the ultimate country music fan experience – to be held in Music City June 11th 14th. Crabb’s CMA Music Fest activities will be highlighted by a performance on “Sunday Mornin’ Country” at the Grand Ole Opry House Sunday, June 14th at 2:30 p.m. Hosted by country and pop icon Brenda Lee, “Sunday Mornin’ Country” will also feature performances from GRAMMY® Award winner Linda Davis, Dove Award-winning Point of Grace, and such legendary country performers as Bill Anderson, The Whites, Charlie McCoy and Jean Shepard.
Helping welcome fans to CMA Music Fest, Crabb will be performing at the Music City Visitors Information Center inside the Sommet Center Wednesday, June 10th at 2:00 p.m. The acoustic set will feature selections from Crabb’s highly anticipated solo debut releasing June 30th. The free performance is open to the public. Earlier that day, Crabb will also be a guest on Nashville’s FOX 17 “Tennessee Mornings” to promote “Sunday Mornin’ Country”.
Additionally, CMA Music Fest attendees will have an opportunity to meet Crabb on Thursday, June 11 at 10 am when he signs autographs at the “Sunday Mornin’ Country” booth in the Greased Lightning™ Fan Fair™ Hall. Located in the Nashville Convention Center, the Greased Lightning™ Fan Fair™ Hall will feature appearances by such country stars as Taylor Swift, Reba McEntire and Carrie Underwood throughout the event.
Presented annually by the Country Music Association, CMA Music Fest has grown to attract nearly 200,000 fans from around the world. The four-day celebration features artist/fan interaction, autograph signings, photo opportunities, more than 100 hours of concerts, family activities and more. For tickets to “Sunday Mornin’ Country,” visit www.ticketmaster.com or www.opry.com.
Jason Crabb is best-known as the powerhouse lead vocalist for the 10-time Dove Award winning and GRAMMY® Award nominated breakout Southern Gospel group The Crabb Family. Crabb’s self-titled solo debut, produced by Norro Wilson and Tommy Sims, releases June 30th on Spring Hill Music.
Preview several tracks from the album on Crabb’s YMZ artist page.
According to their bio, the sound of Mikeschair demands attention. It also claims that their upcoming self-titled debut, bowing July 14th on Curb Records, sets out to entertain as well as inspire those who listen. If you have already heard their new hit radio single, “Can’t Take Away”, you’d agree. If you haven’t heard it yet, when you do, there’s no question you will be entertained and quickly inspired.
This is because the men of Mikeschair – Mike Grayson, Sam Tinnesz, Jesse Hale, Jon Haire – like to contend that their music inspires action to change the world through love. Hailing from Belmont University in Nashville, TN, this quartet’s blend of soulful rock guitars and bass grooves, violin and electronic textures tagged with catchy pop sing-along choruses, undoubtedly compels the listener to step up emotionally and spiritually.
Inquiring minds want to know, what’s in the name?
Yes, there really is a chair involved, and yes, it was Mike’s. “The ‘chair’ was the central gathering point where we got our start,” explains Sam, the band’s lead guitarist. As freshmen at Belmont, “All of us lived on the same floor of our dorm except for Mike. Since he was always hanging out with us on our floor, we decided to get him piece of furniture to make him feel a little more at home. The chair was his only piece of property on our floor.” Mike wrote his name on that chair in big letters and it soon became his place of inspiration for song-writing and creative flow. The band name “is a reminder of our humble beginnings and how far God has brought us,” explains Sam.
Mikeschair: The 411
Even though they grew up in different parts of the U.S. and met at Belmont, each member of Mikeschair has been inspired by music since they were children. Jon picked up the bass guitar in seventh grade, while Mike found his musical passion during his sixth grade year, eventually leading him to be a youth worship leader at his home church. Sam doesn’t remember when music wasn’t part of his life, and Jesse began training on classical violin at the age of four, thus honing his other musical skills showcased in Mikeschair such as keys, synthesizers, and programming.
After a successful performance at Belmont University’s Christian Music Showcase held during their freshmen year, the band cultivated their performing and song-writing skills and by the fall of their senior year, Mikeschair signed with Curb Records. Not long after obtaining their record deal, they each earned their degrees from the Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business at Belmont.
Mikeschair immediately plunged into full-time touring and song-writing, all preparation for their debut project out next month. Produced by the award-winning team of Jason Ingram and Rusty Varenkamp (Bebo Norman, Tenth Avenue North), with the exception of “Otherside” produced by Sean Neff, the result is notable and catchy songs that balance service, worship and entertainment. One such tune is the debut single, “Can’t Take Away,” quickly climbing up the charts and currently #7 at R&R’s CHR chart.
Consistently on the road, Mikeschair performs at a variety of churches, venues, festivals and youth camps. They have opened for acts such as Brandon Heath, Jeremy Camp, Jars of Clay, and MercyMe along the way.
mikestable
At every show, the group offers audiences to visit mikestable, a table dedicated to offering information for various causes, such as Food for the Hungry, IJM (International Justice Mission), Love 146 and more. It is their hope for people to be aware of what’s going on in the world in terms of need, to give them empowerment, yet also give options. “The music isn’t the full extent of our purpose,” Jesse explains. “We are committing our time, effort and platform to helping those in need – making ourselves available to be the hands and feet of Jesus. We’re presenting something that’s very precious to audiences and listeners. It’s the Gospel in action.”
In addition to their partnerships, it’s the band’s mission to invite everyone to bring a non-perishable food item to their shows, where every donated food item is then taken to local food banks and church outreach programs. This venture, which has actually been underway for a few years now, is continuing to grow as more items are donated at each concert.
“Our prayer is that people will leave our shows, not with a sense of how awesome the music is, but with a deeper sense of searching and begin asking questions that they weren’t asking when they showed up,” concludes Mike.
Tour Schedule [Dates are subject to change]
June 6-10: Roach, MO
June 17: Nashville, TN
June 19: Green Bay, WI
June 20: Gaylord, MI
June 21: Dayton, OH
June 25-28: Palmer, TX
June 27th: Dallas, TX
July 3: Huntsville, AL
July 6-9: Roach, MO
July 14: Tulsa, OK
July 23-26: Mandeville, LA
Sept. 18-19: Penn Yann, NY
Fall tour dates forthcoming.
For more information on Mikeschair, visit their YMZ artist page.
Matt Maher’s “Empty & Beautiful” Launches Into Space For Second Time
Publish Date: Jun 03, 2009
Canadian Singer/Songwriter/Worship Leader Matt Maher received an out-of-this-world honour when his album Empty & Beautiful (4/8/08) was a carry-on item for astronaut Mike Good on NASA Mission STS-125. Astronaut Good took Matt’s music for inspiration on his journey to the Hubble Space Telescope. Space shuttle Atlantis launched on Servicing Mission 4, the final astronaut visit to the Hubble Space Telescope May 11th and returned May 24th, using the 13 day mission to install new instruments, upgrade technology and prepare the telescope for many more years of cosmic exploration.
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“I wanted you to know that I was praying for you and your band while orbiting above God’s beautiful creation,” wrote Good in an e-mail to Maher after returning to Earth. “I flew the CD you gave me (Empty & Beautiful) back at Johnson Space Center and enjoyed listening to you guys on orbit on my iPod. It was awesome looking out into space and back at Earth while listening to your beautiful music – really inspiring.”
This mission marked the second time that Maher’s music visited the cosmos. In June 2008, astronaut Ron Garan orbited the earth on NASA Mission STS-124 with Empty & Beautiful.
For more information on Maher and his out of this world CD, visit his YMZ artist page.
iShine Live has seen record growth in only their second season of touring drawing in crowds of over a thousand people a night. In the midst of this growth, iShine Live and founder Robert Beeson have announced that the tour is already planning their third season in September through November of 2009.
Mission Six performs in front of a packed house during a tour stop in Battle Creek, MI [Click image to enlarge]
The event has seen crowds of over 1,000 in markets such as Evansville, IN, Battle Creek, MI, Flint, MI and more. In Midland, MI. the venue had to turn away crowds due to already reaching full capacity with hundreds of tweens staying afterwards to meet the iShine Live artists. Below is an example of the feedback iShine Live has received while out on the road this spring.
“Thank you so much for bringing iShine to Flint, MI. My students, as well as those from around the Flint area will be talking about this for weeks… Thanks again for this awesome ministry and allowing us to partner with you.” A middle school youth pastor from Flint
Due to this overwhelming response, the tour has also added dates in June with stops in New Mexico and Texas. An updated tour schedule is below.
“Its exciting to see the growth that has taken place and the families that have been reached through iShine Live this spring,” says Beeson. “We look forward to continuing this ministry in the fall.”
This spring tour features performances from The Rubyz, Mission Six, Jasmine, Logan Charles, Jamie-Grace and speaker and former Make-A-Wish child Paige Armstrong as well as special guest performances from teen actor Luke Benward. iShine Live has also received support from Make A Wish Foundation, World Vision and American Heritage Girls. TBN debuted “iShine KNECT” this month, an iCarly style show that features the iShine Live crew. The series features interview, fan questions and performances. “iShine KNECT” will air on TBN on Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. PDT and on Smile of a Child TV on Saturdays at 3:00 p.m. PDT.
June 5th: Albuquerque, NM
June 7th: Plano, TX
June 8th: Plano, TX
June 9th: Sherman, TX
All dates subject to change, please visit www.iShineLive.com for most updated tour information.
Available at Christian retailers across Canada are new music from iShine including Luke Benward’s Let Your Love Out, Jasmine’s The Next Me and IShine Jamz Vol. 1 & 2. Check them out on their respective YMZ artist pages.
Jonny Diaz “More Beautiful You” Video Impacts Fans Profoundly
Publish Date: Jun 02, 2009
The title cut from Jonny Diaz’sMore Beautiful You, has been taking over the radio airwaves. Now catch the music video for this song in the YMZ Media section that has been impacting the lives of those who hear it.
The unique music video showcases how girls of all ages compare themselves to the “perfect” pictures of celebrities and models in magazines and on the internet. Seeing this video story unfold, through a mother and daughter being doted on by makeup artists and hair stylists, ends with the message that touched up photos and a lot of makeup don’t matter, that what matters most is to embrace who God made you to be.
As previously reported, not only is the industry buzzing about Diaz’s single but letters are pouring in daily from music fans from all over the country to share how much of an impact the song is to them personally. Since the premiere of the video, astounding positive feedback has been coming in from viewers, proving that the song’s message is truly making a phenomenal impact on fans of all ages. Below are just highlights from music listeners and video viewers alike:
“I don’t think you know how many lives your song “More Beautiful You” has changed. My life just happens to be one of them. My whole life I’ve been told that I’m not skinny enough, pretty enough, smart enough, and all of the stuff the world bombards me with every single day. It eventually got to me. I became bulimic and I started cutting myself. I was bulimic for 2 years and I cut for 2 and a half years. Last night I was feeling so upset and so bad about myself and I was getting ready to cut and I wanted to purge so bad, and I was listening to WIBI when your song came on and I burst into tears because that’s exactly what I needed to hear. That I was beautiful and that what mattered was inside not outside. I’m perfect enough because God created me in the image of himself. I can’t tell you how awesome this song is. I thank God right now for giving you those lyrics. Thank you so much Jonny.”
“Awesome message!! True for male and females of every age! We feel like we need to make ourselves something we are not to be approved by a sinful world… having felt that way many times in the past and still present at times it makes me happy to see videos like this!!”
“AMEN! This is to all of those teenaged girls who are like this, be yourself! Never let what others say about you affect your beauty! Like the video said no one is more beautiful than you. I used to care about looking perfect, but then I realized that even if NO ONE thinks you’re pretty, God does, and that’s all that matters. Remember these words and always be yourself!”
“I am a 13 year-old girl and your song impacted me (and my mom) in such a way, I feel that God led me to hear that song. I thank God that he gave you the words to write that song! I am tempted day after day with trying to fit in and be “beautiful.” I find it amazing that a guy wrote a song so impactful on the way girls think. It seems that everywhere I look, I am bombarded with society telling me how I should think, dress, act, and so much more. Jonny, you have made an impact on my life. Thank you.”
“Thank you so much for “More Beautiful You.” God really used this song to help me on the path to healing from childhood sexual abuse. It is so true He can heal. He can erase all that and take me back to the eyes of a little girl. I look forward to hearing so much more on the radio from you!”
“I was in the car and heard your song and it reminded me of a time in my life where I was that little girl. I starved myself trying to become perfect. This song is amazing and God is really using you to touch the lives of many.”
“I heard “More Beautiful You” on the radio and it brought tears to my eyes. Any girl who remembers being a teen and how hard it was can relate to this song! Or even if you have a daughter or a niece – any girl can relate to the words….it’s so true and encouraging! Hope to hear more from Jonny in the future!”
“Awesome song and video! Thank you. What a beautiful message.”
“What an inspiring video for daughters and mothers alike – and to be sung by a man. This is a very worthwhile posting – a great song and video.
The music video was directed by Carl Diebold (Switchfoot, Third Day, Skillet, Kutless, Building 429). For a behind the scenes of the making of the music video and the teaching lesson on how to play the song, visit the YMZ Media section. The television world premiere of the music video is this Friday, June 5th on the Spirit Network found on Sky Angel’s IPTV service
“More Beautiful You” is the first single from Jonny Diaz’s fourth CD, More Beautiful You, his first project with INO Records/Columbia Records, which released May 5th. The top 10 hit continues to climb the radio charts as well! The song is currently #6 on AC-Indicator’s R&R Charts, and at #15 for R&R’s AC-Monitored Chart.
More Beautiful You is now available at Christian retailers across Canada. Check out the album and the story behind it on Diaz’s YMZ artist page.
Following her successful street week, Lanae’ Hale, made her debut national mainstream TV appearance on WGN America’s Midday News, the #1 midday newscast in the country. Hale performed her current single that is the title track from her new CD, Back & Forth, which released May 19th. The song was also featured as download on WGN.com for the day of her appearance on Friday, May 29th.
[L-R]: Dina Bair, Co-host, WGN America Midday News and Lanae’ [Click image to enlarge]
Hale will be hitting the road this summer on Building 429’s World Vision Summer Fest ‘09. This is Hale’s first major tour that launches in Joplin, MO on June 2nd and ends in Lynchburg, VA on July 31st. Other artists featured on the tour are 33Miles and Kimber Rising.
Back & Forth features a $2 off coupon for first 30 days of release AND will have the Staff Pick: No Risk Music Guarantee sticker. If for any reason you do not like this CD, you may exchange it for another title priced at $19.99 or less.
For more information on Lanae Hale, please visit her YMZ artist page.
Mat Kearney “City Of Black & White” Song Stories, Part III
Publish Date: Jun 02, 2009
Go behind the scenes with Mat Kearney as he talks about the making of his forthcoming May 19th release, City Of Black & White. Click here for part three of this four-week series.
Check out audio samples for all the songs on City Of Black & White and the story behind it at the Kearney’s YMZ artist page. The album is now at available your local Canadian Christian retailer.
As many of you know, the members of Decyfer Down have come across some life threatening battles in the last month, and with numerous inquiries about such, we thought we would let all of you know about such at the same time.
On April 21st, guitarist Chris Clonts and his wife Meghan welcomed Christopher Hayden Clonts into the world. Shortly after their son’s birth, Meghan became extremely ill and the doctors found she had a severe infection that caused her to be away from her new-born for days at a time. After three weeks in quarantine, Meghan was treated and released from the hospital and is now happy and healthy with her husband and son.
The day after Meghan was released from the hospital, Josh Oliver, drummer of Decyfer Down, and his wife Victoria received some devastating news. Victoria was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cancer. Thankfully, the doctors caught it early enough so that it didn’t spread to any other parts of her body. The tumour is located between her lungs and heart and is the size of a softball. Due to the fragile location of the tumour, the doctors are unable to operate, so Victoria has started chemotherapy treatments for a period of 18 weeks. Making matters even more difficult they were denied health insurance coverage.
Throughout this time, the band has received an outpouring of letters and emails from fans who have expressed their sympathies and prayers for the band and their families.
“I am graciously thankful and humbled by the outpouring of love and support for my family and for the Decyfer Down family,” says Josh Oliver. “Please continue to keep us in prayer and we will keep you updated via the band’s MySpace and website.”
We ask that you please keep Josh and Victoria in your prayers, and if you, or your readers would like to know about how to donate or send gifts, you may do so by visiting www.victoriasvictory.org where you an also check on her progress.
Sidewalk Prophets To Release “These Simple Truths” On August 25th
Publish Date: Jun 02, 2009
New Fervent Records band Sidewalk Prophets will make their Christian retail industry debut on August 25th with the release of These Simple Truths.
Sidewalk Prophets performing during GMA Music Week in Nashville
Already touring more than 150 dates per year, the band has shared the stage with acts like MercyMe, Michael W. Smith, Jeremy Camp, Audio Adrenaline and others before signing with the Nashville label. Sidewalk Prophets initially made a name for themselves at Indiana’s Anderson University where frontmen and main songwriters Dave Frey and Ben McDonald met. The band was unwittingly submitted for a campus recording competition, won and later attracted the attention of music executives before relocating to Music City. Members Cal Joslin and Justin Nace joined the band upon Sidewalk Prophet’s arrival to Nashville.
Produced by Ian Eskelin (Stellar Kart, Francesca Battistelli, Sarah Reeves), These Simple Truths centres on the hope that Christ’s love provides. Like most of the band’s recordings, their ministry focus is to help people embrace the uniqueness God has given them.
“The more we look at today’s problems the more we see that a lot of times people are fearful of being themselves,” explains Frey. “And finding our identity in Christ is one of the most crucial steps in loving others. Once people start realizing this and living confidently we’ll see a visible change from households to communities to ultimately the world.
“That’s what we’re all about. The name ‘Sidewalk Prophets’ even means that we are common people speaking the truth about life from our perspective as followers of Christ.”
Already garnering radio airplay on KLTY’s New Music Café with “You Love Me Anyway”, Sidewalk Prophets’ first album single, “The Words I Would Say”, is scheduled for release to radio June 19th.
For additional information on Sidewalk Prophets, visit their YMZ artist page.
dPulse Partners With Ingrooves/Fontana For New Kevin Max LP
Publish Date: Jun 02, 2009
dPulse Recordings has announced that long-time digital distribution partner INgrooves will handle both the digital and physical distribution of the coming Kevin Max album CÔtes-d’Armor, to be released early 4th Quarter, 2009.
The new album follows two recent Kevin Max releases on dPulse Recordings – the 2008 digital-only release Crashing Gates, which has gone on to become the label’s top-selling digital EP; and Raven Songs 101, a spoken word release recorded by Kevin Max in collaboration with the legendary Adrian Belew (King Crimson, David Bowie, Frank Zappa, Talking Heads). The success of these digital releases proved influential in the decision to partner for both digital and physical distribution for the new album – with the full distribution support of a major mainstream label/distributor.
For CÔtes-d’Armor, exclusive digital distribution will be direct via INgrooves, while partner Fontana Distribution – the independent music arm of Universal Music Group – will facilitate physical distribution worldwide. INgrooves is a strategic partner of UMGD (Universal Music Group Distribution), and has distributed dPulse Recordings digital releases since 2003.
The Kevin Max LP CÔtes-d’Armor will be the first dPulse compact disc release distributed worldwide by INgrooves/Fontana/UMGD.
Max currently has four albums available in Canada, check them out on his YMZ artist page.
These titles are now available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the June New Music Tuesday poster. Also, visit the YMZ Music section to check out other upcoming releases.
The music video for Building 429’s current single “Always” is now online at YMZ’s Media section. Also available are special behind the scenes footage from the “Always” video shoot held in downtown Nashville and the story behind the song.
The song shares the story of an encounter that lead vocalist, Jason Roy had with a woman whose son was murdered by his father and encourages those who are in the midst of hard times that they are not alone. It has been touching the hearts of North America as evidenced by the following comments from fans:
“Always” has been a huge encouragement to me as I go through times of asking God why things have to happen… like cancer, divorce, struggles with co-workers, among many other things. This song is a sweet reminder that God is with us always, no matter what the circumstances!” Kristin, fan of Building 429
“The song “Always”, has touched my life tremendously. It reminds me of just how important it is for us to turn to God and how we can always depend on Him. There is nothing as wonderful as knowing that whatever you go through, God is always going to be with you and He never fails.” Trishia, fan of Building 429
“I am 49 years old and the first time I heard your song “Always”, I stopped my truck and cried. I cannot remember when a song moved me so much. God bless you – you most definitely helped me through a very dark and rough time in my life.” Dave, fan of Building 429
“Always” is currently in No. 19 on Soft AC/Inspirational, No. 22 on AC-Indicator and No. 25 on AC-Monitored. On CRW, the single is presently No. 14 AC & No. 9 INSPO. The song is being played on major radio networks such as K-LOVE, SiriusXM, American Family Radio and more.
The song is from the band’s latest self-titled release. Check it out on Building 429’s YMZ artist page.
Fireproof: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack To Release July 14th
Publish Date: Jun 01, 2009
Releasing July 14th, Fireproof: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack recalls the musical inspiration from the film that touched millions of moviegoers last fall. The 17 song various artist soundtrack captures the moving, faith-driven message of 2008’s No. 1 independent film release and Canadian Christian retail’s No. 1 DVD for four consecutive months.
For the first time, fans of the movie can purchase a CD featuring the six artist tracks from the film – including songs from Leeland, Third Day and Casting Crowns – along with 10 orchestral songs from the original score. Plus, as a bonus, the album offers a special Fireproof remix of John Waller’s“While I’m Waiting” with poignant movie clips interspersed throughout the song.
As the film grossed more than $33 million following its September 2008 release, six tracks from the Fireproof movie skyrocketed into the Top 100 chart on iTunes®. In addition, Fireproof sparked a demand from churches and couples nation-wide who wanted to use the film as a tool for contemplating the state of relationships.
Now a catalyst for re-investing in marriage, the Fireproof movie and The Love Dare book and study guide are joined by Fireproof: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack as another resource in the effort to strengthen marriages.
Complete song/artist list for the album is found in YMZ’s Various Soundtracks page. Both the DVD and The Love Dare book is part of the Grow Deeper Summer Sale. Download your copy of the full-colour catalogue and the list of participating Canadian retailers and their sale dates in the YMZ Savings section.
Click on the artist name to read the bios. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the June New Music Tuesday poster.
Sarah Reeves shares the inspiration behind “Let Us Rise” from her April 21st debut, Sweet, Sweet Sound. To hear the story in its entirety, visit here.
“A big passion of mine is unity. As the church, we are the body of Christ. While I know we all have our opinions and arguments about God, at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter the denomination of church I go to or the song I sing on Sunday morning. What matters is that I’m a lover of Jesus Christ. As believers, we are all on the same team. We all go by the same book. We all worship the same God. If we can’t get it together in the church, how do we ever expect to get it right in this world? Let us rise together as one in Jesus Christ. Can we lay down our pride and look at the calling on our lives? Our mission is to be love and share truth with this lost and dying world.” Sarah Reeves
This week’s premieres include the latest from a hard rock outfit and the debut from a band based out of the Dream Center.
Emery are no strangers to success, having played thousands of shows all over the world during their career.
Having radio success and critical acclaim from each of their albums. In Shallow Seas We Sail brings Emery full circle back to their roots as one of the premier bands in their genre. Combining the intensity that put them on the map, with the experience that years on the road will bring to musicians.
Returning to work with producer Aaron Sprinkle (Anberlin, Mae, Emery) to create their best sounding record of their career, with the best song writing of their tenure. In Shallow Seas We Sail will not disappoint for old fans and is sure to secure them plenty of new enthusiasts.
Press Play is driven by the vocal and songwriting vision of David Hanley. Hanley’s musical leadership is complemented by a striking array of emerging young talents, including vocalist Paige Adkins (daughter of comedian Sinbad) and guitar-slinger Tyler Logan. Brought together by a common passion for music, Press Play has exploded into a multimedia experience onstage.
Captivating fans with dynamic and heartfelt songs, Press Play presents a collection of synth pop and guitar driven tunes in Life Is Beautiful. Their debut project contains guest performances by Darlene Zschech (Hillsong), IROCC, and Tyler Williams (Everybody Hates Chris).
Press Play comes from The Dream Center, an inner-city ministry based in Los Angeles. At the Dream Center, 22,000 people are fed weekly, 750 people are housed on a daily basis, 1 million pounds of food is distributed a month and 5,000 people are clothed each month. All proceeds from this album’s sales will be used in the many ministries at The Dream Center.
Life Is Beautiful is available now, while In Shallow Seas We Sail will be available on Tuesday, June 2nd at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the June New Music Tuesday poster. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.
GMA’s Music Training Experience Immerse Comes To Nashville
Publish Date: May 29, 2009
Christian artists, songwriters, worship leaders, and those that want to be someday, will gather in Nashville this summer to Immerse in a four-day event presented by the Gospel Music Association (GMA) that is the Christian music industry’s premier training experience and talent competition.
GMA’s Immerse is scheduled for July 29th to August 2nd on the campus of Belmont University. The event offers unparalleled training, professional and personal feedback, one-of-a-kind concerts and a sense of community to uniquely equip creative Christians to impact culture through music both in and out of the church.
Registration, housing information and all the many details about Immerse are available at www.experienceimmerse.com.
Through Immerse, registrants will train with the industry’s most influential professionals, leading artists and songwriters, connect with top music insiders and others who share a passion for God and music; compete in Christian music’s official talent competition and enjoy exclusive music opportunities that only Nashville can offer.
Artists including Michael W. Smith, Natalie Grant, Aaron Shust, Melinda Doolittle, Phil Stacey, Martha Munizzi and Travis Cottrell will all perform and teach at Immerse. Professionals such as Mitchell Solarek (manager/Natalie Grant); Laurie Anderson (manager/TobyMac); Brad O’Donnell (A&R, EMI CMG); Chris Blaney (booking agent, Third Coast Artists Agency); Leigh Holt (VP of Branding & Merchandising, Word Records) and author David Nasser are confirmed to participate in GMA’s Immerse. More artists and professionals will continue to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
“GMA’s Immerse is more than a professional development event where you learn the tools and skills needed to make it in the music business and to develop important relationships within the industry, though that will happen. Immerse is about refreshing and inspiring the soul and helping musicians see how their music matters, whether their stage is global or local or their platform is universal or one-on-one. Those who come to Immerse may come to Nashville hoping to become the next big thing, and some might. But, all will leave knowing that God has called them to great purpose for their music,” said John W. Styll, president and CEO of GMA.
Immerse was formerly held in Estes Park, Colorado for more than 30 years and was called Music in the Rockies. GMA has moved the event to Nashville – the center of the music business, As a result, registration for the event is already up 30 percent over last year’s Colorado event. Many artists and writers have been discovered or launched their careers through GMA’s talent competitions, including Chris Tomlin, Casting Crowns, Matthew West, Jars of Clay, Nichole Nordeman, Bart Millard (MercyMe), BarlowGirl, Stacie Orrico, Point of Grace, Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Chris Sligh and 2007 American Idol® winner Jordin Sparks.
At the heart of Immerse are the unparalleled opportunities to attend seminars taught by artists and other industry professionals, which cover everything from getting signed by a label to performance techniques to tools for song-writing. Aspiring songwriters and artists can also have their song or demo tapes professionally critiqued. Topics will cover marketing, promotion, radio, A&R, management, publishing, PR, legal and more. The classes will also focus on the roles of an artist/songwriter’s team for those who are interested in management, booking, promotion and more.
Another important feature of GMA’s Immerse is the talent competitions. The Immerse Artist of 2009 National Competition is the Christian music industry’s official talent competition for unsigned acts. At the National Competition which is inclusive of all musical styles and genres of Christian music, Immerse contestants compete for the grand prize titles for Solo 2009, Group 2009 and Band 2009.
The Immerse Song of 2009 National Competition awards grand prize titles, including Song of 2009, and the ABS Scripture Song of 2009. Songs of all musical styles and genres with Christian lyrical content are accepted in the competition and are judged based upon the excellence of song-writing skills within the musical style. The overall song categories are divided by class based upon level of song-writing experience and are given for Amateur, Semi-Pro and Professional Non-Artist classes. The deadline to compete in either the Song or Artist competitions is June 30th.
In addition to the classes and competitions, Immerse takes full advantage of its location in Music City U.S.A. with many opportunities to hear music and hear from the artists creating it. Music highlights include Artist-in-Residence Teaching Concerts, Story Behind the Song Sessions; Evening Concerts, Friday Night Songwriter Showcase and GMA Artist 2009 National Finals Competition.
About GMA:
Founded in 1964, the Gospel Music Association serves as the face and voice for the gospel/Christian music community and is dedicated to exposing, promoting and celebrating the gospel through music of all styles including pop, rock, praise & worship, black gospel, R&B, hip hop, southern gospel, country, and more. The GMA community consists of more than 3,000 members including agents, artists, church leaders, managers, promoters, radio personnel, record company executives, retailers, songwriters and other industry visionaries. The GMA produces the GMA Dove Awards, GMA Music Week and the GMA Academy. For more information, please visit www.gospelmusic.org.
Australian-based Christian rock/worship band Hillsong United has earned the #2 spot on the iTunes® Top Album Charts for its just released CD A Cross The Earth:Tear Down The Walls, selling only less digital music copies than Eminem’s new CD Relapse. The CD with its very cool packaging (you have to see it!) is available now at Christian retailers across Canada.
Hillsong United’s accomplishment on the iTunes® Chart comes as no surprise to the millions who have helped make the band a worldwide phenomenon, including here in the U.S. where United is currently touring. Now through August, the band is playing to capacity crowds, including sell-outs at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, the Roseland Ballroom in New York and the Verizon Wireless Ampitheatre in Atlanta. On June 6th, the band will be headlining Christian Heritage Day at Ontario Place in Toronto.
“People of all ages, especially students, are connecting with United’s message of compassion and social justice and their genuine passion for a real connection with God and each other,” says Chris Estes, Director of Digital Marketing for Integrity Music, the label that distributes United in the U.S. “They’re identifying with the band’s passion to live out their faith and make a difference in the lives of those next door and around the world.”
“For a band that is virtually unknown outside the Christian culture to be selling more than Green Day and Lady Gaga and almost as many as Eminem on iTunes®, it says something about United’s amazing trajectory as an impact artist beyond just the Christian music scene,” continued Estes. “And, they did all this without traditional industry drivers like heavy radio play and mainstream TV. Not only do they sell out major venues, churches around the world are singing their songs every Sunday.”
A Cross The Earth:Tear Down The Walls is United’s first new live CD since 2006. The CD features 12 tracks, including 10 new songs of Hillsong United’s signature power pop/rock brand of worship. Audio samples can be found at the band’s YMZ artist page. Download a free song and song chart at unitedacrosstheearth.com.
Hillsong United is making more than 20 appearances in the North America between April and August. Remaining shows are:
5/27 Atlanta, GA
5/29 Birmingham, AL.
5/30 Nashville, TN
6/1 Washington, D.C.
6/2 Boston, MA
6/3 Virginia Beach, VA
6/5 New York, NY
6/6 Toronto, ON [Christian Heritage Day]
6/8 Grand Rapids, MI
6/9-10 Chicago, IL [Willow Creek Conference]
8/21-22 Los Angeles, CA [Encounterfest]
8/24 Denver, CO
8/25 Dallas, TX
8/28-29 Miami, FL [Encounterfest]
United frontman Joel Houston says of the band’s music, “We must live out our worship through action by reaching out to the lost and the broken… helping the poor and oppressed, pursuing justice and fairness for all people.We must be a generation of people expressing their heart for worship and realizing God’s purpose for all of us, to love people and be His hands and feet.”
“Every generation needs a revolution,” adds Houston, “And this one needs to look, sound, walk and breathe like love.”
The passion to “live out their worship” is at the heart of Hillsong United’s ministry and also at the heart of Hillsong Church, Australia’s largest evangelical congregation and home to the dynamic youth ministry from which the band emerged. Hillsong’s “Mighty To Save” won this year’s Dove Award for Worship Song of the Year and they are also a recent recipient of the Gospel Music Association’s International Award given in recognition of their impact on the global Church. The various concert events and conferences they have hosted around the world have drawn thousands of young people and their church leaders looking to immerse themselves in worship and gain a better understanding of how to bring a lifestyle of worship to everyday life.
It was a busy street week for one of the most heralded new singer/songwriters in the Christian music industry, Lanae’ Hale. She hit the road in support of her new album, Back & Forth, which released May 19th.
[L-R]: Lanae’ Hale; Anita Lustrea, Executive Producer/Host, Midday Connection; Lori Neff, Senior Producer, Midday Connection [Click image to enlarge]
Hale travelled to Chicago for a taped appearance on Moody radio’s national show, Midday Connection, which will air June 11th. The next day Hale was in South Bend, IN for a live performance/interview on LeSea Broadcasting’s, Harvest Show, and then taped a performance for Live From Studio B that will air at a later date. Then it was on to Dallas, TX where Hale appeared live on Daystar’s Celebration. Her testimony on cutting had viewers calling the prayer lines for help with depression and cutting issues. While at Daystar, Hale taped a performance/interview for Check The Sound that will air in August. The next morning, Hale was up bright and early for a performance/interview on Good Day, which is the #1 morning news show in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.
[L-R]: Natalie Solis, Co-Anchor, Good Day; Lanae’ Hale; Dan Godwin, Co-Anchor, Good Day [Click image to enlarge]
Back & Forth reached the second most downloaded CD on iTunes.com’s Christian page during release week and reviews were very strong for Hale’s debut full-length album. CCM Magazine said, “Rarely does an untried name in music record not only one of the better discs in her new artist class but one of the year’s best CDs – period.”
Hale is traveling back to Chicago this Friday for a performance on WGN America’s Midday News, which is the #1 midday newscast in the country. Her appearance will be live across the country on the cable channel and additional backstage and performance footage can be viewed at WGN.com.
Back & Forth is available now at Christian retailers across Canada. Listen to tracks from the album and read Hale’s story of how God delivered her from addiction on her YMZ artist page.
GRAMMY®- nominated singer Ayiesha Woods’ hit song “Happy” will be used in the movie My Life In Ruins, which begins showing in theatres nation-wide this June 5th.
My Life in Ruins is a romantic comedy set amongst the ruins of ancient Greece, starring Winnipeg native Nia Vardalos (My Big Fat Greek Wedding),Richard Dreyfuss,Alexis Georgoulis,Rachel Dratch (Saturday Night Live),Harland Williams and British comedy actor and impressionistAlistair McGowan. The film is about a tour guide whose life takes a personal detour, while her group gets entangled in comic situations among the ruins, with a series of unexpected stops along the way.
Woods’ sophomore release Love Like This was released last September 9th and has joined the highly merited ranks of her power-packed Gotee Records album Introducing Ayiesha Woods. The debut offering garnered Woods a GRAMMY® nomination for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album, as well as nabbing her an additional nod in the Dove Awards New Artist of the Year category. CCM Magazine also followed Woods’ career as one of three emerging musical talents for 2006 in their “Band Wagon” column, and MTVU.com’s URGE service picked Introducing Ayiesha Woods in their 2006 TOP 10 year-end list for Inspirational music. Woods, a favourite on the Women of Faith touring circuit, continues to perform throughout this year at festivals and on dates nation-wide.
Check out Introducing Ayiesha Woods, the album that “Happy” is found, and her latest album, Love Like This, on Woods’ YMZ artist page. Both albums are available at your local Canadian Christian retailer.
Worship Artist Matt Papa Signs With Centricity Music
Publish Date: May 27, 2009
Centricity Music is happy to announce the signing of worship artist, Matt Papa, to the label’s artist roster. The first project from Papa, Your Kingdom Come, will be released August 18th.
Your Kingdom Come was produced Jason Hoard (Fee, John Waller) and Allan Salmon (Lanae’ Hale, This Beautiful Republic, Seabird). The project showcases songs that were written by Papa and takes this self-described “preacher with a guitar” to a whole new musical level. The first single, “Open Hands”, will be going for adds at AC and CHR radio on June 19th. Papa performed the song during GMA week at Centricity Music’s Monday night showcase and again at a private GMA press dinner in the Centricity suite. Each time the song reverberated with the audiences and delivered a powerful spiritual impact. Check out more photos from the concert in the YMZ Photo Gallery.
Papa performing during GMA Music Week [Click image to enlarge]
“From the moment I heard Matt’s music I knew there was something special about what he does,” says Guy Zabka, Director of A&R, Centricity Music. “As I’ve gotten to work with Matt I’ve learned that every song he writes, every note he sings and every song he performs is done with complete passion and conviction. His ability to call and lead people to worship is unmistakable and the joy he finds in spreading the Gospel is truly inspiring. To get to work with an artist of Matt’s calibre is an honour for us at Centricity and we’re very excited about what lies ahead for him and his ministry.”
“With all my heart I want to be able to look back and say, when this career thing is over, is that the kingdom of God was advanced through this relationship… not the kingdom of Matt Papa,” explains the artist. “I want to see disciples made, churches started, missionaries sent out, and most of all the praise and the gospel of Jesus Christ to spread all across this broken planet. Hand in hand I pray that we (Centricity and myself) would make music that makes much of Jesus, makes people adore Him, and makes Satan really, really angry. And I also hope to beat John Mays in racquetball one day soon.”
Papa released his first self-titled project as an independent artist in 2006 that rapidly garnered the attention of the Christian music industry. ChristianMusicToday.com exclaims, “While other worship leaders have trouble making music that resonates with the church, sometimes allowing artistry or commercial appeal to get the best of them, Papa is able to balance it all without compromising the power of the song.” The album also received national radio airplay and distribution at Christian retailers across the country. The first single from the album, “You Are Good”, was featured on Rick Warren’sThe Invitation CD compilation which sold over one-million units. Another tune from the self-titled album, “Unto the One”, was featured on the 2007 WOW Worship multi-artist project. Papa has ministered and continues to minister with several organizations throughout the country that includes Student Life, Georgia Baptist Convention, David Nasser Outreach. He currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia with his wife, Lauren, who is expecting their first child in June.
For more information on Papa, please visit his YMZ artist page.
Philmont Partners With Steelroots For Video Series
Publish Date: May 27, 2009
Forefront Records and Philmont joined forces with Steelroots this spring for a new original series of webisodes featuring the Charlotte-based rock band. The webisodes reveal what happens during a day in the life of a touring band.
“We only work 20 minutes out of the day so there is a whole lot of downtime,” laughs singer/guitarist Scott Taube. “Probably about 85 percent of our entire day is downtime. So you’ll get to see how we handle downtime and how we amuse ourselves.”
Launched back in April, “Philmont Rising” will offer a new webisode on the 13th of every month during this year-long campaign. Episode 1 (“Who the Heck Is Philmont?” ) and episode 2 (“Our First Taste of Tour” ) are currently available at Steelroots.com.
“We couldn’t be happier about working with Forefront Records and Philmont to bring this new content to the Steelroots community,” says Bryan Smerdon, director of programming for Steelroots. “They produce relevant music that appeals to today’s generation and are the perfect partner for the Steelroots brand. It’s clear that they have set a high standard of excellence in their work, and we’re excited to be partnering with them on this project.”
Launched in 2000, Steelroots is one of the expanding outreaches of the Inspiration Ministries. Since its launch, Steelroots has become a leading provider of Christian content for youth and young adults, using television, Internet, print media, products, and special events to accomplish its vision of “revealing the Truth to today’s generation.” Steelroots’ original television programs include “Steelroots: The Show”, “Countdown”, “The Uprising”, and special programs that address timely topics. Steelroots TV airs in 127 countries and in more than 135 million households worldwide through INSP (The Inspiration Network), i-Lifetv (Inspirational Life Television), and INI (Inspiration Network International). For more information visit Steelroots.com.
About Philmont
Philmont began when singer Scott Taube and guitarist Josiah Prince connected after the break-up of their former local outfits. After many self-booked tours and one-off dates to support an ambitious independent release, the group landed a performance at Christian music’s ultimate event, the Cornerstone Festival. It was at Cornerstone that Philmont caught the attention of EMI/Forefront Records, inking a record deal in early 2008. That summer the band debuted a digital EP, Oh Snap, and then released the EP to Canadian Christian retail on April 21st, 2009. Produced by Rob Hawkins (Fireflight, Jackson Waters), the album was met with applause from critics who cited, “This stuff is solid” (AbsolutePunk.net) and “What a first impression… Philmont is a perfect addition to the record collections of All-American Rejects and Relient K fans” (The Phantom Tollbooth). This summer the band will make appearances at select festivals including Ichthus, Cornerstone, Sonshine Fest and Soul Fest.
The Oh Snap EP is specially priced at $5.99. Check it out on Philmont’s YMZ artist page.
Behind the Songs with Kristian Stanfill, Part Four
Publish Date: May 27, 2009
Kristian Stanfill shares the inspiration behind “Go” from his April 21st debut,Attention. To hear the story in its entirety, visit here.
“This is a song for all generations, young and old. It’s a gathering and a sending out. It’s about moving forward. This is about offering hope to the hopeless, carrying restoration to the broken and breaking the prisoner out of prison.” Kristian Stanfill
The Wrecking Partners With Founding Member Of P.O.D.
Publish Date: May 27, 2009
The Wrecking has announced an exclusive management agreement with Mark “Traa” Daniels of Ryot Entertainment Group. Based in southern California, Ryot Entertainment specializes in Production, Management, Grass roots promotions, Street Team/Fan Based Development, Image development, Song arrangement, Band and artist infrastructure, Internet and New Media Campaigns, Tour and Booking Assistance, Creative Marketing, and Consulting in all areas of music.
[L-R]: The Wrecking’s Darren Elder (drums); Doug Elder (lead vocals); Joe McCann (turntables/synth/vocals); Mark “Traa” Daniels; Dustin Burnett, producer; Karl Anderson (keys/bass). Click image to enlarge
Daniels is one of the founding members of the platinum selling band P.O.D. With nine million albums sold, three worldwide tours, eight major label releases, and numerous motion picture soundtracks under his belt, he is very aware of what it takes to be successful. Daniels helped P.O.D sell almost 40,000 cds before getting signed to a major label, ensuring a strong fan base. Over the years, Traa has helped to build a large fan base consisting of over 200,000 members.
“I am honoured to have the opportunity to work with this group of guys,” says Daniels. “The music, drive, passion, and work ethic that these guys possess are rare traits in this industry. We are gearing up for an exciting 2009 and beyond.”
In addition to his success as a musician, Daniels has been able to be in the studio with award-winning producers such as Glen Ballard, Travis Wyrick, Howard Benson, and Jay Baumgardner. Daniels has worked with acts such as The Dirty Heads, The Katinas, and Stars Go Dim, among others.
The Wrecking will release a Special Edition Digital version of their successful national debut entitled A New Abolition. In addition to the eleven original songs on their Chosen/Executive/Universal project, A New Abolition, the digital, repackage version will include three “live” versions of the songs as well as two cover tunes of Coldplay’s “Lost” and U2’s “Get On Your Boots”. The Wrecking’s video of “Get On Your Boots” was recently named one of the top 50 music videos on YouTube. As an exclusive bonus via iTunes®, the Special Digital Repackage of A New Abolition will also include the music video of “You Remain”. The digital repackage should be available June 2.
“You Remain”, the current music video from The Wrecking, is being played nationwide on several video shows including Gospel Music Channel. The video is also featured on Interlinc’s Spring Music Video Loop which is serviced to thousands of youth leaders across the country. The Wrecking continues to tour the country and is set to appear at several music festivals this summer including Cornerstone, Lifest, Icthus, Soul Fest, Rock the Light, SoulJam, Unity Fest, among others.
For more information, visit The Wrecking’s YMZ artist page.
Hawk Nelson Gears Up For Release Of “Live Life Loud” This Fall
Publish Date: May 27, 2009
The question “Where in the World is Hawk Nelson?” would be appropriate for the band that has been coast to coast this year playing in front of more than 350,000 fans with the Winter Jam Tour Spectacular (January-March), REVOLVE tour (January-February), and finished up the Rock and Worship Roadshow in April. Despite this insane touring schedule, fans will be pleased to know that these road warriors have found time to record their fourth studio album in Nashville, TN. The new album Live Life Loud will release on Tooth & Nail Records / BEC Recordings this fall, October 6th.
Live Life Loud features co-writing with Chris Stevens, Matthew Gerrard, TobyMac, Trevor McNevan, Steve Wilson, Bart Millard and others to be announced. The band has already been performing the title track and “Meaning of Life” for fans who attended the Rock and Worship Roadshow receiving a huge response. Stay tuned for more information about this new album. To wet fan’s appetite, new songs such as “Live Life Loud” and “Meaning of Life” plus more will be available at Hawk Nelson’s merch booth this summer. The band appeared at YC Alberta this past weekend and will be at Wonder Jam at Canada’s Wonderland in Vaughan, Ontario on June 27th. Check the YMZ Concert listings for more details.
Hawk Nelson with a fan who came to the Oklahoma City TOMS Shoes Style Your Sole Event
In their efforts to continue to pave the road to help those in need, Hawk Nelson has committed to obtaining 5,000 pair of shoes to children in need with TOMS Shoes, whose motto is “One for One.” For every pair purchased, TOMS gives a pair of shoes to a child in need. To help them reach their goal for children in Haiti, Hawk Nelson will be hosting six in-store “Style your Sole” with TOMS Shoes in July (dates below) while they are in local areas for concerts. The band encourages fans to come meet them and be one of the first 100 fans to buy a pair of TOMS Shoes to personally meet the guys and get autographs. During the “Style your Sole” you can purchase a pair of TOMS and decorate them for your very own customized pair.
Hawk’s Jason Dunn gets creative with TOMS Shoes
About Hawk Nelson
This powerhouse, pop rock foursome hailing from Peterborough, Ontario, Canada has won the hearts of fans and media nation-wide since their 2004 debut release Letters to the President with more than 600,000 lifetime sales and three studio projects later. Hawk Nelson has appeared on NBC’s “American Dreams”, had a cameo appearance in the hit Nickelodeon film “Yours, Mine, & Ours”, where they played their original song “Bring Em Out”, as well as had their songs featured on NBC’s 2006 Stanley Cup promo spots, WB’s “Smallville”, “Summerland”, and “Laguna Beach”. In 2008, Hawk Nelson Is My Friend debuted at #34 on the Billboard Top 200 selling more than 18k units. Hawk Nelson Is My Friend was also the top selling new release on the Christian album chart in addition to the comprehensive chart. The album also successfully debuted on the digital store iTunes® with a No. 13 debut on the Top 100 albums chart on street day and remains on that chart one week later. Also the debut single “Friend Like That” sold 25,000 digital copies up to street week on iTunes®. The album artwork also received GRAMMY® and Dove nominations for “Best Packaging”. For more information, visit the band’s YMZ artist page.
Hawk Nelson Loves Toms Shoes
Hawk loves TOMS Shoes. TOMS Shoes provide shoes for children in poverty stricken areas with the motto “One for One.” For the band’s effort, every pair of shoes purchased via Hawk Nelson’s website, TOMS donates a pair of shoes to someone in Haiti as the band’s ongoing involvement with the Hands & Feet Orphanage. Coming this year will be a Hawk Nelson TOMS shoe designed by the band. Check out HawkNelson.com to find out how you can buy a pair today and change the life of a child tomorrow. For more information visit www.tomsshoes.com.
TOMS Shoes In-Stores with Hawk Nelson
July 2
Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center
1501 Gaylord Trail
Grapevine, TX 76051
Store: WIIFY (10 miles away)
July 10
Kingswood Amphitheater
16000 Theme Park Way
Doswell, VA 23047
Store: Need Supply Co. (20 miles away)
July 18
The Levy
River Road
Baton Rouge, LA
Store: Noelie Harmon (in Baton Rouge)
July 19
Linn County Fair & Expo
3700 Knox Butte Road
Albany, OR 97322
Store: Exit Real World (25 miles away in Salem, OR)
July 24
Six Flags Over Texas
Arlington, TX
Ph: 817.640.8900
Store: Teesie’s Attic
July 25
Verizon Wireless Amphitheater
8808 Irvine Center Drive
Irvine, CA 92618
Store: Active Ride
Multiple GRAMMY®, Stellar and Dove Award winner, Soul Train Award winner and double RIAA® certified Gold®-selling artist Israel Houghton released his highly anticipated album, The Power Of One, on March 24th. Within a week, the most widely acclaimed recording ever for Houghton became a no. 1 best selling album.
Now in the YMZ Media section, you can watch videos of Houghton talk about the story behind may of the songs on his hit album. You can also catch the video for “Just Wanna Say”. It is a danceable confection reminiscent of OutKast’s “Hey Ya”. It’s the infectious rave-fave of Israel’s kids (ages 12, 7 and 5). In fact, that is Israel’s son drumming on the tin can outside of the music store.
The Power Of One is available now at Christian retailers across Canada. Do yourself a favour. Check out the videos and then pick up a copy this funky cool CD.
These titles are now available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the May and June New Music Tuesday poster. Also, visit the YMZ Music section to check out other upcoming releases.
Newsboys Holds At No. 1 On The Soundscan Christian Albums Chart A Second Consecutive Week
Publish Date: May 22, 2009
Newsboys holds at no. 1 on the SoundScan Christian Albums Chart a second consecutive week. Critics are calling In The Hands Of God the band’s best disc to date:
”... Boasts some of their most contagious and memorably fresh melodies to date…In the Hands of God makes a fitting transition into a new phase of musical ingenuity for one of Christian music’s iconic bands.” GospelMusicChannel.com
”... A batch of tunes that assimilate the finer aspects of the band’s past work… [A] vigorous blend of new wave, brittle rock and electronic pop to give the band’s fans a generous helping of what has made newsboys one of the most successful acts in CCM history.” Christian Musician
”... In the Hands of God proves that the boys from Down Under not only still have what it takes to create an album worthy of the band’s legacy, but have perhaps recorded one of the finest, most cohesive and well-produced newsboys projects to date.” Soul-Audio.com
”... The CD features classic rock ‘n’ roll newsboys – big guitar riffs, driving drums and some quirky, pop lyrics thrown in for fun – all with a message… If you are a longtime newsboys’ fan, this CD is a must.” Denver Post
Check out In The Hands Of God and the story behind it at the newsboys’ YMZ artist page. The album is available at your local Canadian Christian retailer.
“God Rocks! Live in Miami: The HD Experience” Coming To A Theatre Near You
Publish Date: May 22, 2009
God Rocks! is coming to the big screen at more than 70 Cineplex Entertainment theatres across Canada on Saturday, June 13th, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
The God Rocks! Live in Miami HD experience captures the award-winning kid’s group in an awesome concert before a packed, live audience in Miami, Florida. Crystal clear HD picture and awesome surround-sound bring the God Rocks! to the big screen like they have never been seen or heard before! A short God Rocks! animated space-adventure, Starlight Rescue, will also be premiered. This one-of-a-kind, kid’s movie event will run two hours in length (including an intermission).
Advance tickets are now available at select Cineplex Entertainment locations across the country and online at www.cineplex.com/events. General admission is $9.95 and children (3-13 years) are $8.95 each. Special group rates of $7.95 each are also available for groups of 20 or more. For more information on group rates call 1-800-313-4461.
Mandisa Hits The Red Carpet At The American Idol® Finale
Publish Date: May 22, 2009
It’s a good week to be Mandisa. After being featured on Entertainment Tonight on Wednesday, Mandisa landed a spot in US Weekly’s “Hot Bodies” issue out on news-stands now. The singer also attended the highly anticipated season eight finale of American Idol® held on Wednesday, May 20th at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, California.
Mandisa spoke with US Weekly while in New York in detail about her 85 pound weight loss. Entertainment Tonight also came to capture the Idol alum’s photo shoot and to find out more about her recent weight loss. For more information on US Weekly, visit www.usmagazine.com.
While on the Idol finale red carpet, Mandisa spoke with E! News, TV Guide, Fox News, AmericanIdol.com and more. The season five finalist also appeared on Idol Tonight Tuesday, May 19th. Mandisa also twittered about her Idol finale experience, to view her twitter page go to twitter.com/mandisaofficial. You can also find YMZ on Twitter here.
Season seven alum David Hernandez and Mandisa before the finale [Photo: Courtney Hyder. Click image to enlarge]
With fellow season five finalist Ace Young in the midst of Fox affiliate news interviews [Photo: Courtney Hyder. Click image to enlarge]
Season four runner-up Bo Bice and Mandisa take a break during interviews [Photo: Courtney Hyder. Click image to enlarge]
Mandisa will also be appearing on the Trinity Broadcasting Network tomorrow evening, Saturday, May 23rd at 6:00 p.m. CDT speaking about her experience on the Women of Faith tour. For more information on TBN, visit www.tbn.org.
Mandisa is speaking to women worldwide about the freedom she has experienced through her faith and incredible 80+lb weight loss in her sophomore album release, Freedom, which bowed March 24th. Mandisa has also been seen on Today, CNN online, E! News Live and more in promotion for her latest album.
Freedom is the follow-up to Mandisa’s 2007 debut, True Beauty, an album that created history by becoming the highest chart entry and the best-selling debut artist in the life of her label, Sparrow Records. It also became the only female debut to hit no. 1 in the 27 year history of Billboard’s Christian Retail Chart. True Beauty received a GRAMMY® nomination for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album, and her debut single “Only the World”, hit #1 on Billboard’s Hot Single Sales chart.
Integrity Music announces the debut solo release for songwriter, worship leader and Desperation Band’sGlenn Packiam. Rumors and Revelations will release on June 23rd and will coincide with the publishing of his second book Secondhand Jesus… Trading Rumors of God for a Firsthand Faith.
Packiam is a worship pastor at New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado and also the director of its New Life School of Worship. And, as one of the founding leaders and songwriters for the Desperation Band, Packiam has been featured on several of their critically-acclaimed albums including Everyone Overcome, Who You Are and From The Rooftops. He also has been featured on New Life Worship’s albums such as Counting On God and the award-winning My Savior Lives.
With his first solo effort, Packiam offers up new worship songs and contemporary favorites in the 10 song CD, produced by Jeff Quimby (who has worked with Lincoln Brewster, Selah and Joel Augé ). Included are two of Packiam’s most important worship music contributions “My Savior Lives” and “Your Name” as well as new songs “Burning in Me”, “For Love I Sing”, “Without You” and “My Hope”, the last being a personal message of hope offered to friends who experienced the stillbirth of their baby.
“Many of the songs were written over the last two years, during my own journey of wrestling with God,” says Packiam. “I had been coasting in my own walk with the Lord and allowed my view of God to devolve into a patchwork of rumours. I would never have said that I believed these half-truths about God; things like ‘God will give me what I want’ or that ‘God shares my goal of success’, but I was living as if I did. There are no shortcuts to God. The way to God – to life – is vigourous and requires total attention. I pray these songs reflect that and ignite the heart on a journey to firsthand faith.”
Rumors and Revelations’ 10 songs stand alone as a unified worship project, but the CD also provides context and perspective to Packiam’s new book. Secondhand Jesus… Trading Rumors of God for a Firsthand Faith, published by David C. Cook Publishing, challenges readers to let go of mistakenly held rumours about God and enter into an authentic experience of Christ’s power first-hand. Songs from Rumors and Revelations correspond to specific chapters in the book. This is Packiam’s second book. His first was Butterfly in Brazil: How Your Life Can Make a World of Difference (Tyndale House).
Preview several songs from Rumors and Revelations on Packiam’s YMZ artist page.
Hillsong United And Christy Nockels Featured On HearItfirst.ca
Publish Date: May 22, 2009
This week’s premiere feature that Aussie worship band and a singer well known for her work with Watermark and Passion.
Across The Earth: Tear Down The Walls is Hillsong United’s first new LIVE recording since 2006 featuring 10 new songs from this best-selling band.
The project was produced by the Hillsong Church team of Michael Guy Chislett, Andrew Crawford and Joel Houston.
Hillsong United set to perform June 6th in Toronto. See YMZ Concert listings for full details.
One of Christian music’s most recognizable and prolific female voices, Christy Nockels, was born in Ft. Worth, TX as a “seminary baby”. She grew up in Oklahoma as the daughter of a pastor and a piano teacher, which infused her heart early with a love for both music and God’s word.
Together as Watermark, Christy and her husband Nathan recorded five albums with Rocketown Records. They composed a journey full of songs, seven of which were no. 1 radio singles. They have been nominated for numerous Dove Awards, including Christy’s nominations for Female Vocalist of the Year. Christy and Nathan have served at Passion Conferences since 1997 and in 2008, they moved to Atlanta, GA to be a founding family of Passion City Church.
Christy releases her first solo worship project, Life Light Up, with sixstepsrecords. She’s been busy playing before national audiences on Chris Tomlin’s “Hello Love Tour”, where she’s singing vocals with Chris and debuting her new single “Life Light Up” each night.
Christy’s heart through leading worship and song writing is to help people communicate intimately with the living God, and to leave a legacy of proclaiming Jesus’ fame to this generation.
Life Light Up will be specially priced at $9.99. Both titles will be available on Tuesday, May 26th at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the May and June New Music Tuesday poster. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.
Belfast, Ireland-based modern worship band Bluetree, whose acclaimed album, God Of This City (titled Greater Things in Canada), has become one the best selling Christian recordings this year, receives a boost this week from American Idol® winner Kris Allen. Allen has been performing the title track to Bluetree’s album, “God Of This City”, a song birthed by the band in a brothel in Thailand. See video of Allen performing the song at here.
An anthem being sung worldwide, “God Of This City” was written by Bluetree during a mission trip and while the band was on stage performing worship songs in the Climax Bar, a club which doubles as a brothel in the Red Light district of Pattaya, Thailand. The song became a message of hope for the people of Pattaya and is now being sung in churches across the world, with the Willow Creek Association recently concluding its worship pastor seminar with the song. It was further recorded by Chris Tomlin and became the name and theme for the latest Passion project and world tour.
Bluetree will be playing “God Of The City” and its brand of worship-rock on its first ever tour of the U.S. that begins July 17th and follows concerts for an estimated 35,000 people on a six-city tour of Canada that began May 17th at YC Montreal, continuing with Unite In Worship in Burnaby, BC this Friday, YC Alberta this Saturday and Sunday, ending with Christian Heritage Day on June 7th in Toronto. Event details are available in the YMZ Concert listings.
Having spent four consecutive weeks on top of SoundScan’s Christian retail sales chart, a remarkable feat considering the band has never toured in the U.S. or Canada, Bluetree brings its energetic concerts this summer to major Canadian cities and U.S. festivals that include Alive Festival (Akron, OH), Creation Northeast (Mount Union, PA), Cornerstone (Bushnell, IL), Kings Fest (Doswell, VA), Spirit Song (Cincinnati, OH), Lifest (Oshkosh, WI), SoulFest (Gilford, NH), Rock the Desert (Midland, TX) and more.
Following the summer concerts, Bluetree will join NewSong this fall on a tour to major markets throughout the U.S. beginning in September and running through November. Tour cities to be announced soon.
Ahead of the tour, Billboard’s correspondent Deborah Evans Price predicted the band’s success: “Look for this talented outfit to become one of the Christian market’s most enthusiastically embraced new worship bands.”
After seeing the band perform during Gospel Music Week in Nashville, Beth Bacall, Star 99.1 FM midday air personality in New York City, echoes that a Bluetree tour is one not to miss: “What an amazing explosion of sound. Bluetree cuts straight to the core after the first chord. Musically, spiritually they pull you and you can’t let go until they finish, and even then you’re left with lyrics floating all about. There is an obvious connection between all the band members that really permeates through the crowd and within their music. Add in some serious rock and Bluetree has a sound that definitely deserves airplay plus a show that needs to be seen.” Check out the YMZ Photo Gallery here to catch the band’s activities during GMA Music Week.
One of the reasons Bluetree has found such quick success in North America stems from the song that has preceded the band’s arrival. In addition to Kris Allen, Chris Tomlin and other artists and church worship leaders singing the song, the title track to the acclaimed debut album, God Of This City, has become an R&R multi-format radio hit, landing this week at No. 14 on the AC Indicator, No. 13 on the CHR and No. 6 on the Soft AC / Inspirational charts and continuing to climb.
With an unabashed attitude of worship running through all of the songs on God Of This City, which released in the U.S. on March 3rd on the Lucid Artist label and August 26th, 2008 in Canada, the album also reflects the highs and lows that inevitably come with the journey of faith. Critics from Billboard, Lexington Herald-Leader and Belfast Telegraph to Worship Leader, ChristianMusicToday.com, CBN.com and CBA Retailer + Resources and more are heralding Bluetree’s God Of This City, describing it as “stunning debut album”, “inspired and inspiring”, “an experience”, and calling the band the “next big leader” and “freshest sounding” with “compelling musicality”.
For more information on the band, including a compelling acoustic video performance and explanation of the song “God Of This City” by Bluetree lead vocalist/guitarist Aaron Boyd, as well as a free download of the congregation-ready song “Each Day” from its acclaimed God Of This City/Greater Things debut album, go here.
Learn more about Bluetree on their YMZ artist page or check out their EPK in the YMZ Media section. Greater Things is available at Christian retailers across Canada.
Building 429, 33Miles And Pocket Full Of Rocks To Perform At Operation Ethan Benefit Concert
Publish Date: May 21, 2009
In an effort to financially aide Ethan Bibb, an 8-year-old boy who is battling Medulloblastoma, a cancer of the brain and spinal cord, Operation Ethan is born. This project will feature a live concert, auction and family fun including bounce houses, crafts, jewelry making, caricatures, and more! The event begins at 10:00 p.m. on May 30th in Cross Plains, Tennessee at Kilgore Park.
INO Records’ Building 429 and 33Miles as well as Word Record’s Pocket Full of Rocks will join the concert bill along with Nashville’s 94FM the Fish at Kilgore Park in Cross Plains for a benefit concert at 6:00 p.m. No tickets are required for the concert but there will be a $10 suggested donation at the gate. To view more information about the concert, click here.
Ethan’s diagnosis began in late March when he was taken to Vanderbilt hospital for an incurable stomach virus. Doctors then learned that Ethan has a walnut sized tumour pushing on the base of his brain. Though they were able to remove the tumour, there are many spots on Ethan’s brain that have proven to be inoperable. In late April, Ethan began an aggressive radiation and chemotherapy routine. He is currently in stage IV of Medulloblastoma.
Operation Ethan will benefit Ethan and his family with the financial hardships they are facing. In recent times, Ethan’s father also lost his job in the down-turned economy while the family also lost their home as well.
In only three weeks, Ethan’s Caring Bridge site has garnered 10,000 visitors. For updates on Ethan’s condition, please visit here. To donate, please visit here. In addition, www.operationethan.com will go LIVE later this week, where everyone is invited to log on to find out more information on the project, Ethan and contributions can be given.
Building 429
Building 429 has had a history of success with the release of three albums and now the rock band has joined forces with INO Records for their fourth studio record which became available in stores last fall. In 2005, “Glory Defined” was named BMI’s Christian Song of the Year, they were named the Gospel Music Association’s 2005 New Artist of the Year and nominated that same year for Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year and Song of the Year. They have toured with artists such as TobyMac, Family Force 5, Casting Crowns and Thousand Foot Krutch. Jason, Michael and Jesse are excited for their fans to hear a record that reflects where they are as individuals and artists. For more information on the band, please visit their YMZ artist page.
33 Miles
After logging in over 120,000 miles (not including air travel), performing at over 200 churches, garnering radio hits and a 2008 Dove nomination for New Artist of the Year, 33Miles released their sophomore record One Life on September 16th to much praise. Critically acclaimed, One Life entered the Top Christian Soundscan Album Sales chart and the Christian Digital chart at No. 5, while debuting at No. 160 on the Billboard Top 200. Since their debut in 2007, 33Miles’ Jason Barton (lead vocals), Chris Lockwood (guitar) and Collin Stoddard (keys) celebrated one of the highest-selling freshman albums of 2007 with their GMA Dove Award nominated project 33Miles. For more information on the band, please visit their YMZ artist page.
Pocket Full of Rocks
Dove Award-nominated worship group Pocket Full of Rocks first made a splash on the Christian music scene with their hit songs, “Let It Rain”, and “Let the Worshippers Arise”, found on Michael W. Smith’s Platinum®-certified Worship album, and Phillips, Craig and Dean’s recent release, respectively. The group later released their debut commercial project, Song to the King, in 2006 to critical acclaim, followed by their sophomore album, Manifesto, in 2007. The band is currently working on their third studio album and tours constantly. For more information on the band, please visit their YMZ artist page.
Rock & Worship Roadshow Wraps After All-Star Line-up Performs Before 170,000+ Screaming Fans
Publish Date: May 21, 2009
The all-star line-up on The Rock & Worship Roadshow recently wrapped having stationed in 20 cities before a total of 170,000 screaming fans.
Rock & Worship Roadshow concludes after performing in 20 cities nation-wide [Photo: Nic West / Click image to enlarge]
Sharing the stage on the Roadshow were multi-platinum selling and GRAMMY®-nominated, Dove and American Music Award winning band MercyMe along with Gold® selling and multiple Dove award winner Jeremy Camp, Hawk Nelson, 2009 Dove Award winner for New Artist of the Year Tenth Avenue North and Addison Road. The Roadshow celebrated a sold out crowd of 18,000 in Dallas, TX along with sold out shows in Boise, Portland, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Fresno, Wichita, Springfield, MO and Cedar Rapids. In addition, a sum of 78,000 fans tuned in to watch the tour LIVE online at www.rockandworhiproadshow.com.
A total 170,00 screaming fans came out to the tour to see their favourite bands rock the stage [Photo: Brody Harper / Click image to enlarge]
Not only were concertgoers treated to an amazing night of ministry and entertainment those thousands of people across the country responded to also impact those far beyond the venue walls. Through MercyMe’s Imagine A Cure in partnership with Compassion International, 3,000 children were sponsored by fans attending the Rock & Worship Roadshow. These sponsorships will help children in third world countries receive medical treatment, balanced nutrition and a Biblical education. Additionally, 600 of those children will receive the additional medical care needed to treat their special medical conditions. For more information on Imagine A Cure go to www.imagineacureonline.com. For more information on Compassion International, go to www.compassion.com.
Photo: Brody Harper [Click image to enlarge]
“This tour has been a dream of ours since the very beginning and to see it come alive is truly remarkable,” says MercyMe’s Bart Millard. “We were overwhelmed by the number of people that came out to each show and we appreciate their support. With this tour we strived to put the fans first and believe the gospel was and continues to be shared with millions.”
Plans are currently underway for the Second Annual Rock & Worship Roadshow scheduled to hit the road in February 2010. For more information on the Roadshow please log on to www.rockandworhiproadshow.com.
Mat Kearney “City Of Black & White” Song Stories, Part II
Publish Date: May 21, 2009
Go behind the scenes with Mat Kearney as he talks about the making of his forthcoming May 19th release, City Of Black & White. Click here for part two of this four-week series.
Check out audio samples for all the songs on City Of Black & White and the story behind it at the Kearney’s YMZ artist page.
Below Sarah Reeves shares the inspiration behind “Fresh Anointing” from her April 21st debut, Sweet, Sweet Sound. To hear the story in its entirety, visit here.
“I see God raising up a new generation. I see change in our culture and churches. I believe that God is doing a new thing in and through us as the body of Christ. The message of God will always be the same, but I pray for a fresh anointing, a fresh wind of God’s Holy Spirit to sweep across the nations like we have never seen before.” Sarah Reeves
Red’s “Death Of Me” Top 10 On Multiple Radio Charts
Publish Date: May 21, 2009
After seeing it’s sophomore album, Innocence & Instinct, debut at No. 15 on The Billboard 200 sales chart in February, Grammy®-nominated modern rock band Red continues its drive at retail thanks to the multi-format hit single, “Death of Me”, a successful spring headlining tour and a strong response from both national and local media outlets.
L-R: Anthony Armstrong, Michael Barnes, Jasen Rauch, Randy Armstrong. [Photo Credit: Caleb Kuhl / Click image to enlarge]
“Death of Me”, the principal single from Innocence & Instinct, climbs to No. 7 (with a bullet) this week on the Active Rock chart with 921 total spins and an audience reach of 2.1 million listeners at that format alone, according to Radio & Records. The key markets supporting “Death of Me” with major airplay include Chicago, Salt Lake City, Denver, Spokane, Seattle, Las Vegas, Indianapolis and Syracuse. Meanwhile, the music video for the high-impact single was recently ranked in the No. 10 on FUSE TV’s “FUSE Rock Countdown”.
As “Death of Me” gains momentum, Red’s reach at radio continues to grow beyond core rock radio stations. Last week (5/14), the Westwood One Radio Network, carried by more than 250 stations across the country, featured Red; with the on-air host even taking time to read a blog-posting by bassist, Randy Armstrong.
In addition, Red, like rock acts P.O.D. and Chevelle, benefits from significant airplay at Christian radio. “Death of Me” is currently No. 3 on R&R’s Christian Rock chart while Christian CHR stations heavy on Red’s “Never Be the Same”, which recently peaked at No. 3. To meet demand, fans will be treated to another single from Innocence & Instinct as “Mystery of You” releases this week.
In addition to the radio success, Red’s Innocence & Instinct continues to benefit from a popular spring headlining tour. The coast-to-coast run displays Red’s increasing appeal as the band performed in venues ranging from 500-1000 seats. The response to Red has been so overwhelming, on several occasions the band sold out of its T-shirts and CDs, and had to advance replacements to the next show date. “We’re really blown away by the response to the new record. The songs we’re doing at our shows every night really seem to be connecting with people,” shares guitarist Jasen Rauch.
Along the way, Red took time out to join Anberlin in opening for Korn last month during a show sponsored by Tuscon’s KFMA radio. Hitting the road this past January, Red will have performed 130 shows by the end of June supporting its growing reputation as one of the hardest touring bands on the road today. Red’s next tour, which will kick off in Atlanta on June 19th, will welcome special guest Framing Hanley as the co-bill artist.
The Nashville-based band, made up of guitarist Jasen Rauch, singer Michael Barnes, guitarist Anthony Armstrong and his twin brother, bassist Randy Armstrong has maintained a near-constant presence on the road. Since its Grammy®-nominated 2006 debut End of Silence released, the band has toured alongside other high profile rock acts such as Three Days Grace, Korn, Flyleaf, 3 Doors Down, Breaking Benjamin, Seether, Papa Roach, Buckcherry, Sevendust, Staind, Kutless, Third Day, Switchfoot and others, while rave reviews for the band’s live shows have poured in via both print and online outlets alike.
Innocence & Instinct (and its Deluxe Edition) released February 10th to rave reviews in major media outlets including USA Today and Billboard. With first-week sales of 40,000 copies according to Nielsen SoundScan, the album debuted as the no. 15 best selling album on Billboard’s Top 200 chart. It also claimed the no. 5 spot on iTunes® Overall Albums chart. To date, Innocence & Instinct has scanned more than 120,000 units since its February 10th debut. The new album built on the momentum of Red’s 2006 debut, End of Silence, which has scanned more than 300,000 units and earned several awards and nominations including a Grammy® nod in the album category.
For more information about Red and the Innocence & Instinct Deluxe Edition which includes four bonus tracks, the “Death Of Me” video (which can also be seein in the YMZ Media section), behind-the-scenes footage and an extended booklet, please their YMZ artist page. The albums are available at Christian retailers across Canada.
“When David and I talked about doing a second record, I really had a vision of us making music together,” Powell said. “I wanted it to really be a retreat time where we could sleep late if we wanted to and spend some time in God’s word together. I was hoping that it would naturally work, that people would go off on their own and start writing songs. It totally happened, and it was amazing.”
Organic in feel and creation, Glory Revealed II was, in many ways, birthed as an outpouring of the original album’s impact on the artists involved. The tour in particular served as a catalyst for the development of a tight-knit artistic and spiritual community, setting the stage for the latest musical instalment and informing the musical direction for the new recording. Writers, musicians and artists gathered for a week-long creative retreat last summer in the woods of Georgia at a rustic hunting lodge, one that had been converted from a three-story grain silo.
Nasser said, “The lodge really added the ultimate Americana feel, a rustic scene with the tin roof and the wide-open spaces. This is the kind of music that has a lot of space so you don’t miss the lyrics. You can’t miss what makes this record so amazing and that is the word of God.”
Glory Revealed II draws from several passages of Scripture, including excerpts from Psalms, Corinthians, Hebrews, Isaiah and more. Worship artist Matt Maher said, “Most Christian music is inspired by Scripture and references it or quotes it, but these songs are making much more of an intentional effort to immerse people in Scripture.” Participating vocalist Jason Crabb, of Southern Gospel’s The Crabb Family added, “Scripture is alive and it does something to our souls.”
The first radio single, “Since the World Began”, is performed by Matt Maher, Amy Grant, Ed Cash and Mac Powell. The song is currently adding at Christian AC radio. Recent Dove-winner for Male Vocalist of the Year, Brandon Heath says, “My favourite song is ‘Since the World Began’. That’s such a great line, ‘Since the world began, no ear has heard or eye has seen a God like you.’ I totally worship to that song in my car. I love, love, love that song. I’m excited for people to hear it as the first single.”
Sonny Lallerstedt, who co-wrote “There is a City” and played multiple instruments on the CD, summarizes the special event album by saying, “What a privilege it is for us to be able to take these words – of Jesus, the disciples, the Old Testament, the New Testament – and to be able to set them on a plate for people to be able to really eat from and to really get that word in them.”
For more on Glory Revealed II, and a listing of upcoming tour dates, please visit www.gloryrevealed.com. Check out the complete song list, including performing artists, and preview several tracks from the project here.
Forged from a creative vision shared by Mac Powell, front-man for GRAMMY®-winning rock band Third Day, and acclaimed author/speaker David Nasser, Glory Revealed: The Word of God in Worship won two Dove Awards, spawned the no. 1 song “By His Wounds”, and inspired people around the world to sing Scripture. The 2009 instalment, Glory Revealed II: The Word of God in Worship, brings 21 artists together to craft a new album sure to use musical creativity to plant God’s word on hearts and minds of all ages. David Nasser’s book, Glory Revealed: How The Invisible God Makes Himself Known continues to be the perfect companion to these records.
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Find great deals and new music at a store near you.
This week’s premieres include the follow-up to the best-selling worship album and the debut from a bunch of Belmont students who got their name from a chair.
Wanting to provide listeners with truth taken directly from scripture, Third Day’s Mac Powell teamed up with speaker/author David Nasser to build one of 2007’s most unique albums, Glory Revealed.
Produced by Powell along with contributing vocals from friends, the projects rootsy, Americana style and scriptural content became an instant hit.
Glory Revealed II: The Word Of God In Worship will continue to inspire listeners to dig into the hope and truths found in scripture.
Features such great artists as Powell, Brian Littrell, Amy Grant, Brandon Heath, Aaron Shust, Shane & Shane, Bethany Dillon, Natalie Grant and many others.
The name Mikeschair piques a lot of interest and begs for an explanation. “The ‘chair’ was the central gathering point where we got our start,” says guitarist Sam Tinnesz. “All of us lived on the same floor of our dorm at Belmont, except for Mike. But, since he was always hanging out with us on our floor, we decided to get him a piece of furniture to make him feel a little more at home. The chair was his only piece of property on our floor. He wrote his name on it in big capital letters, and it kind of became his seat of inspiration for writing songs and being creative. The name is a reminder of our humble beginnings and how far God has brought us.”
The album is co-produced by Jason Ingram and Rusty Vanderkamp (Tenth Avenue North, Bebo Norman, Rush Of Fools).
The first single to be released to radio, “Can’t Take Away”, is climbing the charts.
Both albums will be arriving at your local Canadian Christian retailer on Tuesday, July 14th. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.
« Return to Previous PageNew Music Tuesday Fresh Releases
Publish Date: Jun 30, 2009
Here are today’s new releases:
CDs
DVDs
Songbooks
These titles are now available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the July New Music Tuesday poster. Also, visit the YMZ Music section to check out other upcoming releases.
« Return to Previous PageThird Day To Be Inducted Into Georgia Music Hall Of Fame On September 19th
Publish Date: Jun 26, 2009
[Below is the official press release with updated information from what we previously reported on June 25th]
Multi-platinum, GRAMMY® and AMA (American Music Award) winning rock band Third Day received the news this week that the Atlanta-based group has been selected as a new inductee into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame. The 31st Annual Georgia Music Hall of Fame Awards Show takes place Saturday, September 19th, 2009, at the Georgia World Conference Center in Atlanta, GA. The show will broadcast live on Georgia Public Broadcasting viewed locally on Atlanta’s Channel 8.
Other honourees to be inducted during the awards show include post-grunge rock band Collective Soul, music promoter Peter Conlon, GRAMMY® winning songwriter Bryan-Michael Cox, music industry pioneer Johnny L. Carson, the late singer and songwriter Roy Hamilton; the late record executive Shakir Stewart, and the late bass guitarist Berry Oakley.
Previous inductees include a very talented and musically diverse group of people including Ray Charles (1979), Alan Jackson (2001) and Lynyrd Skynyrd (2007).
In order to be nominated for this prestigious “Georgy Award” an artist must be born in or reside in Georgia for at least one year and receive a state of national acclaim for achievements in the field of recorded music.
“This is a very special honour for Third Day because we are all Georgia boys through-and-through and have a sound with Georgia inspired roots,” said Mac Powell. “It is one of the biggest highlights of our career to be recognized by an organization which acknowledges such a diverse and talented group of people.”
For tickets and information, call 770-491-9494 ext. 15.
Related articles
Third Day Inducted Into The Georgia Music Hall Of Fame
« Return to Previous PageJason Crabb And Robin Mark Featured On HearitFirst.ca
Publish Date: Jun 26, 2009
This week’s premieres include the debut solo release from a member of an acclaimed Southern Gospel group and the latest from a celebrated worship leader.
Best known as the powerhouse lead vocalist for one of Gospel’s most acclaimed and awarded groups, The Crabb Family, Jason Crabb’s career has already been an incredible ride.
While garnering multiple Dove Awards, three Grammy® nominations and 16 #1 singles with his family, Jason has become one of the Christian music community’s most acclaimed vocalists. His unique sound finds him on stages that range from The Grand Ole Opry and national youth conference platforms to a sweet Sunday service at an old country church as well as performances with the legendary Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir.
This year marks the release of his self-titled, national solo debut, produced by Tommy Sims, Norro Wilson and Gordon Mote, three of the music industry’s most acclaimed producers.
Featuring a cameo appearance by one of Jason’s heroes, Vince Gill, the recording finds Jason doing exactly what he loves with a soulful, heartfelt approach that his fans love to hear.
Northern Ireland’s Robin Mark is one of the most celebrated worship leaders of our day. His song Days Of Elijah continually stays near the top of the CCLI charts and his albums have sold more than one million units worldwide.
Robin’s latest CD, Year of Grace, is reminiscent of Revival In Belfast and combines powerful new worship songs with Robin’s unique Celtic delivery and Irish intonation. Recorded live during a powerful night of worship, Year Of Grace provides a much sought after worship experience. This recording promises to be another strong seller.
Also available as a folio, CD-ROM songbook and CD Trax.
Jason Crabb will be arriving at your local Canadian Christian retailer this Tuesday, June 30th while Year Of Grace will be in stores on Juy 14th. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.
« Return to Previous PageMaria’s Big House Of Hope Opens July 2nd In China
Publish Date: Jun 25, 2009
Show Hope™, the adoption ministry of Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman, announces the official opening of Maria’s Big House of Hope on July 2nd in Luoyang, China. As the finishing touches are being made to this healing home for special needs orphans, the offices of Show Hope™, located in Franklin, Tennessee, celebrated stateside for the hope and future of these orphans Tuesday evening at an invite-only open house for friends and family.
Mary Beth and Steven Curtis Chapman, speaking at Show Hope open house
Open house photos courtesy of JohnPricePhoto.com
About Maria’s Big House of Hope
Maria’s Big House of Hope is a healing home dedicated to saving the lives of special needs orphans in China. Show Hope is proud to open the doors to this exciting project that provides for orphans throughout the country who are in desperate need of surgeries and special medical attention, offering them the highest level of care and enabling the children to thrive. In turn, there is hope that this necessary medical attention increases the orphans chances of being adopted. The facility is named in loving memory of the Chapman’s 5-year old daughter, Maria Sue Chunxi Chapman, whom they adopted from China in 2004 when she was just one year old.
Luoyang, located in the Henan Chinese province with a population of approximately six million people, is one of the poorest provinces in all of China and is the chosen location for this caring facility that will be a beacon of hope to the people of China and the world. The state-run Luoyang orphanage takes care of nearly 700 children, currently giving care for most of the special needs orphans from all around Henan. By now partnering with Maria’s Big House of Hope, the most ill of the orphans will be offered further medical care that they so desperately need.
The Six Floors
At completion, Maria’s Big House of Hope is a 60,000 square foot six-story building equipped with everything needed to care for these special needs orphans. There are 128 beds with 190 nurses and nannies on staff, when at full capacity. Every orphan in the facility is five years old or younger, representing some of the neediest orphans in China.
The first level consists of an entrance/reception area, office, small exam room, kitchen, laundry, and accommodations for caretakers. 24 beds are available to the children on this floor who have been through surgery, recovered, and awaiting adoption.
The second and third floors holds children with long-term chronic care who are not healthy enough to survive on their own or in the state-run orphanage. Because of their condition they are also not likely to be adopted. 72 beds are available between these two floors, along with an area for physical therapy.
The fourth floor has 28 beds and is dedicated to hospice care for children who are terminal. This floor also offers an intensive care area, emergency room, and isolation room. Every new orphan to Maria’s Big House is brought to the fourth floor for evaluation, registration, and diagnosis.
The fifth level is the home of the building’s operation theatre with rooms for 10-16 children who are coming in from all over China for them to stay before and after surgery. Only surgeries such as minor orthopaedic and cleft pallet surgery will take place on this floor. A training room for incoming staff and an infirmary are also located here.
The sixth floor is the living quarters for long-term staff and visiting medical physicians. This area also allows groups with up to 20 people.
For more information about Maria’s Big House of Hope and Show Hope, please visit www.ShowHope.org.
« Return to Previous Page“Gospel Dream” Finalists Chosen
Publish Date: Jun 25, 2009
Last night’s Season Four premiere of Gospel Music Channel’s (GMC) American Idol®-style talent search series Gospel Dream had a little bit of everything: rousing performance highs, disappointing performance lows; tears of joy, tears of sorrow; judges’ praise, judges’ criticism; contestants moving on, contestants going home; drama, comedy and much more. Viewers can catch special encores of the season premiere episode Sat. June 27 (8:00 P.M., 1:00 A.M.) and Sunday, June 28 (8:00 P.M., 11:00 P.M.) on GMC. All times eastern.
The judges deciding the fate of the contestants are Michelle Williams from the GRAMMY®-winning group Destiny’s Child; One of Gospel music’s most prolific talents, J. Moss; and one of the music industry’s most respected executives, Mitchell Solarek. Kimberley Locke, the first American Idol® alumnae to debut at #1 on the Billboard charts with a non-Idol single, serves as co-host along with Mike Kasem (“MTV’s Top 20 Video Countdown” “American Top 10” ). In addition, two major musical artists will serve as surprise coaches during the season. The theme for the Gospel Dream’s fourth season: The Greatest Inspirational Songs of All Time.
Front Row (L-R): Erin Lyder (Boston, MA); NeVar Massey (Hampton, Ga.). Middle Row: Ashli Marie Pritchett (Thomaston,GA.), Rashelle Garrett (Ceres,CA.), Robert Mauti (Nashville, TN.), Tony LeBron (Boca Raton, FL). Back Row: Amber Davis (Brownsville, TN), Jasmine Jackson (Murfreesboro, TN), Tim Stylez (Atlanta, GA), Travis Lindseth (Kirkland, WA)
Twenty-six people were sent home last night with the judges selecting these contestants as the Top Ten Finalists [Name, hometown and age]:
Amber Davies
Brownsville, TN [18]
Ashli Marie Pritchett
Thomaston, GA [16]
Erin Lyder
Boston MA [24]
Jasmine Jackson
Murfreesboro, TN [21]
NeVar Massey
Hampton, GA [34]
Rashell Garrett
Ceres, CA [32]
Robert Mauti
Nashville, TN [26]
Tim Stylez
Atlanta, GA [27]
Tony BeBron
Boca Raton, FL [32]
Travis Lindseth
Kirkland, WA [21]
The next new episode of Gospel Dream premieres on GMC Wednesday, July 1st at 10:00 P.M. ET/9:00 CT.
Gospel Dream talent auditions invited solo artists between the ages of 16-40, from all genres of Gospel/Christian music styles, including traditional, rock, pop, country and soul to compete for the final competition in Nashville from which ten finalists – and ultimately one winner – will be chosen by a celebrity panel of industry professionals. The winning artist will receive record and music video exposure, among other prizes.
The Gospel Dream series was created by Executive Producer Elvin Ross who is also the series’ executive producer and musical director. Gospel Music Channel is the fastest-growing network in television and can be seen in 45 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.
« Return to Previous PageInpop Records Boasts Big Week At Radio With Two No. 1 Hits
Publish Date: Jun 25, 2009
Inpop Records artists captured the top spots at Christian radio this week, with singer/songwriter Mat Kearney dominating the CHR chart and pop-rock outfit Everyday Sunday claiming the No. 1 song at Rock radio.
“Closer to Love”, the debut single from Kearney’s new Inpop/Columbia/Aware project, City of Black & White, marks his first No. 1 song at Christian radio. Chris Hauser of Hauser Promotions, who is promoting the song to radio, comments, “I’m thrilled and honored to be attached to Mat Kearney’s first career No. 1. His music is way more than just a job to me. He speaks to me, moves me and inspires me with his take on life.”
Also No. 1 this week is Everyday Sunday with the first single, and title track, from its June 16th release, Best Night of Our Lives, which climbed to No. 3 on iTunes’® Top Christian Albums chart. “Best Night Of Our Lives” is the second Rock radio hit for Everyday Sunday, following “Wake Up! Wake Up!” from its 2007 Inpop Records debut of the same name. A remixed version of the single by Soul Glow Activatur from Family Force 5 is also currently being offered as a bonus track exclusively through iTunes®.
Trey Pearson, founder and front-man of Everyday Sunday, remarks, “We are so excited to have ‘Best Night Of Our Lives’ go No. 1 at radio the week of our new album release. We had so much fun making this record, and it’s rewarding to see so many old and new fans rallying in support of our latest project.”
“It is a huge privilege to hold the number one positions on two charts simultaneously,” says Shara Katerberg-Hsu, Director of Marketing at Inpop Records. “This is the first number one for Mat Kearney, who was first embraced by Christian radio when he broke records at CHR five years ago. Everyday Sunday’s latest accomplishment at Rock marks the band’s third No. 1 since signing with Inpop two years ago, solidifying its staying power as a first class rock act in our industry. Congratulations to both artists, and many thanks to the promoters and our friends in radio who have continued to support Inpop through the years!”
About Mat Kearney
Kearney initially sprung onto the music scene in 2004 with Bullet, his first national release and label debut on Inpop Records. In addition to spawning the hit song “Undeniable”, Bullet caught the attention of Aware Records, label home to John Mayer, Train and Five For Fighting. Kearney and Inpop Records inked a general-market partnership with Aware/Columbia Records in 2005, and he released his sophomore project, Nothing Left To Lose, in 2006. The album garnered Kearney Dove Awards for New Artist of the Year as well as Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song (“Trainwreck”) and prominent licensing placements on popular shows including “Grey’s Anatomy”, “Bones”, and “Friday Night Lights”. He was additionally featured as a VH1 You Oughta Know artist and headlined the first VH1 “You Oughta Know” tour. Kearney has also toured with John Mayer, Sheryl Crow, The Fray, Jason Mraz and most recently Keane in the spring of 2009. On June 19th, Kearney kicked off a headlining tour in support of City of Black & White, which debuted last month at No. 1 on the Christian SoundScan charts and No. 13 on the Billboard 200. For more information, visit Kearney’s YMZ artist page.
About Everyday Sunday
Comprising Trey Pearson (lead vocals), Tyler Craft (bass), Kevin Cramblet (drums) and Nick Spencer (guitar), Everyday Sunday hails from Columbus, Ohio. Attracting a national audience with its 2001 independent Christian Hit Radio single, “Just a Story”, Everyday Sunday joined Flicker Records’ roster in 2002. The band released two successful projects with Flicker, Stand Up and Anthems For The Imperfect, while raking in numerous accolades, including being named among CCM Magazine’s “Favorite New Artists of 2003”, as well as “Best New Artist of the Year” by TVU Music Television. The band’s Inpop Records debut, Wake Up! Wake Up!, released May 22th, 2007, yielding the No. 1 CHR hit “Find Me Tonight” as well as Rock chart-topper “Wake Up! Wake Up!”. The album’s title track was additionally named 2007 Rock Song of Year by Radio & Records. The band’s follow-up, Best Night of Our Lives, produced by Mark Lee Townsend (Relient K, Jennifer Knapp, O.C. Supertones) and mixed by JR McNeely (Paramore, Jeremy Camp, tobyMac), finds Everyday Sunday exploring a more aggressive rock approach. In additional to a busy summer festival season, Everyday Sunday will once again be featured on Acquire The Fire’s national tour this fall. For more information on Everyday Sunday, visit the band’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageJars Of Clay’s “Two Hands” Video Now Online
Publish Date: Jun 25, 2009
The multi-Platinum™ and three-time GRAMMY® Award-winning band Jars of Clay premiered its “Two Hands” music video on Tuesday and it is now available in the YMZ Media section.
The video showcases Jars of Clay’s engaging delivery of the hit single interspersed with footage of the band on a recent trip to Africa in support of its Blood:Water Mission. The “Two Hands” music video was directed by Eric Welch and produced by Tameron Hedge. “Two Hands” is currently at No. 8 on the AC Indicator chart, No. 9 on the AC Monitored chart, and No. 10 on the CHR chart. The songs has spun in front of over two million radio listeners so far. The album that the song is from, The Long Fall Back To Earth, has sold over 50,000 units to date.
“Sometimes music videos tell stories. This video tells the story of a band’s journey to get our own hands dirty. Someone once defined the role of an artist as the act of looking at the world and describing it… not just as the world is… but also as it should be,” says lead singer Dan Haseltine. “There is only so much looking and describing a band can do when faced with injustices, and tragedies… and also the heroic stories of those who rise above their fears and overcome insurmountable obstacles. Two Hands is a song about overcoming our own fears and finding reasons to care about others even when we don’t feel equipped to do so.”
About Jars of Clay
Jars of Clay launched its breakout career with its multi-format hit, “Flood”, in 1995. Since then, it’s amassed more than six million in career sales (Five Gold®, two Platinum® and one double Platinum® certification), an American Music Award nod, 17 No. 1 radio hits, and numerous film credits and BMI honours for song-writing and performing. Jars of Clay recently wrapped its “Two Hands Tour”, which was an outing that hit 23 cities coast-to-coast. See www.jarsofclay.com for upcoming festival dates and tour information.
While celebrated for its music and writing, Jars of Clay is most concerned with the needs in Africa. Compelled to make a difference, members Dan Haseltine, Stephen Mason, Matt Odmark and Charlie Lowell founded the Blood:Water Mission in early 2002. The first effort of this non-profit was the “1000 Wells Project” with a goal of raising funds to build, rebuild and repair 1,000 wells in urban and rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa. This year Jars of Clay will celebrate the building of the 1000th well which will help bring clean water to more than 150,000 people. Visit www.bloodwatermission.com for more information.
« Return to Previous PageMany Artists Continue To Confirm For GMA’s Immerse
Publish Date: Jun 25, 2009
More than 20 artists have already confirmed to participate in Immerse, a four-day event presented by the Gospel Music Association (GMA) July 29th to August 2nd that is the Christian music industry’s premier training experience and talent competition. Immerse offers participants unparalleled access to some of Christian music’s top and rising artists and songwriters who will not only perform at Immerse, but also teach, mentor and create with registrants.
Artists confirmed include:
Michael W. Smith
Natalie Grant
Pillar
Aaron Shust
Chris Sligh
Phil Stacey
Martha Munizzi
Travis Cottrell
KJ-52
Revive
Leeland
Krystal Meyers
Kirk Franklin
Joy Williams
Ian Eskelin
MIKESCHAIR
Evan Milby
Tara Leigh Cobble
Andy Davis
Andrew Peterson
Tony Wood
More artists will be confirmed up until the start of Immerse.
Christian artists, songwriters, worship leaders, music business professionals – and those that want to be someday – will gather at Immerse, a four-day event during which registrants will train with the industry’s most influential professionals, leading artists and songwriters, connect with top music insiders and others who share a passion for God and music; compete in Christian music’s official talent competition and enjoy exclusive music opportunities that only Nashville can offer, including the valuable prize packages.
The important deadline to register for the talent and songwriting competitions is coming up on June 30th. All the detailed information about Immerse is available at www.experienceimmerse.com.
Follow GMA’s Immerse on Twitter at twitter.com/GMAimmerse.
« Return to Previous Page“Come Alive” With Mark Schultz On August 25th
Publish Date: Jun 25, 2009
Platinum®-selling, Dove Award winning recording artist Mark Schultz releases his long-awaited, fifth studio album, Come Alive, August 25th on Word Records. One of Christian music’s most acclaimed singer/songwriters, Schultz’s first new studio album in nearly three years is also his most personal recording to date, inviting listeners to “come alive” through these songs birthed by stories of hope, loss, joy and redemption.
New for Schultz, working with more than one or two producers for an album, Come Alive features the distinct and masterful touches from multiple GRAMMY® Award winner Brown Bannister (Amy Grant, Third Day, CeCe Winans), Shaun Shankel (Beyoncé, Hilary Duff), Bernie Herms (Natalie Grant, Avalon) and Paul Mills (Third Day, Bluetree). The album also features collaborations with such hit making songwriters as Bart Millard and Barry Graul of MercyMe, Matthew West, Joy Williams and Herms. The combination of talent and Schultz’s own vision for this album results in his most thought-provoking, musically diverse project to date.
“I would hope that when people listen to this CD they can identify with the struggles within the songs, but at the same time know that God is the same God through the struggles as He is during the triumphant moments. Christ, who began a good work, will finish a good work. It may not be on your own timeline or not even the way you imagined it, but He promises He will. There’s a bigger picture out of our control, but God has made these promises and I want to hold onto that.”
“He Is”, the first radio single from Come Alive to release July 10th, is an expression of this hope that was inspired by the stories of two families battling cancer.
“Payton Cram was a girl who came to one of my concerts in Michigan with her dad,” recalls Schultz. “I was really amazed at her maturity for her young age, even as she had cancer. When the cancer started to get bad, I flew up and spent a day with her and prayed with her and her family. She was a beautiful girl. She was never going to blame God for her cancer. She never asked ‘Why me?’ She just always knew there was a bigger purpose in it.”
During the same time Payton was fighting cancer, Mark learned from his wife, Kate, about a missionary family whose fourth child was born on a Friday and on Sunday they found out the mother had terminal cancer. “The father of the family said, ‘Well, we can’t praise God on Friday and curse him on Sunday… We have to trust that He knows what’s going on,’ and that’s when the idea of ‘He Is’ was born,” says Schultz. “He is, He was and always will be. It’s a pretty important message no matter what kind of rough road you are riding through.”
Another poignant song on the album, “What It Means to Be Loved”, is “the only song I’ve ever played in concert that received a standing ovation before the end of the first chorus was over,” recalls Schultz. Kate was again a source of inspiration for the song, “My wife said to me, ‘Since you are adopted, I think we should adopt kids too. I think we should adopt kids with special needs… maybe someday we adopt kids with special needs that doctors know are only going to live for a year or two,’” recalls Schultz. “I replied, ‘Honey, why would we do that?’ She answers, ‘Because, before they go to heaven, I want them to know what a great Christmas is like and what a great birthday is like and let them know they were loved well before they get to heaven.’ That’s the kind of wife I’m married to.”
This conversation was sparked by the story his wife told him about a family who was expecting a child and were told that tests revealed health issues that meant the baby probably wouldn’t live long. Although the doctor’s suggested terminating the pregnancy, the mother decided she would love the child as long as she could. Schultz channelled those emotions into the “What It Means to Be Loved” lyrics:
I want to give her the world
I want to hold her hand
I want to be her mom just as long as I can and live every moment until that day comes
I want to show her what it means to be loved
Schultz’ clear, compelling voice conveys the sense of sadness, yet shares the spirit of hope and abundant love that lie at the heart of the song.
“As Christians, we are called to be love,” says Schultz. “If that means loving a baby that will be here seven minutes or 70 years, it doesn’t make any difference.”
Pulling from real life experiences for the new record, many of the songs on Come Alive were also inspired when Schultz rode his bicycle from coast to coast to raise over $250,000 to benefit the James Fund, which provides assistance for widows and orphans. Along the way he learned much about himself, the human condition and God’s sovereignty. Those revelations reverberate throughout his new album.
“The album is a powerful work of art, full of emotion and featuring the most prolific and moving work Mark Schultz has ever written,” says Mark Bright, Word Entertainment President and CEO. “His ability to capture life’s most fragile moments in song, and lead people closer to God by revealing His glory in every situation, is what makes Mark Schultz such a gifted artist.”
Taking the songs from Come Alive on the road, Schultz will debut new music and fan favourites on a 40-plus-city tour beginning with the festival circuit this summer and leading into his “Come Alive” tour featuring Platinum®-selling group Point Of Grace that launches September 10th in Decatur, IL. For the latest list of tour dates, visit www.markschultzmusic.com.
Lauded at No. 1 on Billboard’s “Hot Christian Adult Contemporary Songwriters” list and with nine No. 1 radio hits, Schultz was the centrepiece of the U.S. Army campaign “Letters From War”, named Christian Music Today’s Male Vocalist in 2003, and featured on the national TV programs, 48 Hours, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, CNN and more. His 2005 release, Mark Schultz Live… A Night of Stories & Songs, sold RIAA® certified Platinum® and garnered Schultz his first GMA Dove Award.
Check out Come Alive and preview the song “He Is” on Schultz’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageThird Day Inducted Into The Georgia Music Hall Of Fame
Publish Date: Jun 25, 2009
At a media luncheon at the CNN Center Dantanna’s downtown on Tuesday, Atlanta-based rockers Third Day became part of the selected group of artists being inducted into the Georgia Music Hall Of Fame.
They join Collective Soul, long-time Atlanta concert promoter Peter Conlon, and songwriter Bryan-Michael Cox. John L. Carson will be receiving the Pioneer Award. Singer Roy Hamilton, bassist Berry Oakley (Allman Brothers) and music mogul Shakir Stewart will be honoured posthumously
Past inductees of note include Newsong, Mylon LeFevre, Brenda Lee, The Lewis Family, Ronnie Milsap, Mike Curb, Chet Atkins, Allman Brothers Band, Atlanta Rhythm Section, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Usher and many others.
The 31st annual Georgia Music Hall of Fame awards show will be broadcast live on GPB-TV September 19th from the Georgia World Congress Center. The evening will be hosted by broadcasters Monica Pearson and Leslie Fram.
For more information on the Georgia Music Hall Of Fame, please visit www.georgiamusic.org.
« Return to Previous PageTooth & Nail Records Signs Female-Fronted Hard Rock Band: The Letter Black
Publish Date: Jun 24, 2009
Nationally known for discovering fresh talent that fans gravitate towards, Tooth & Nail Records is pleased to announce the signing of their most recent hard rock band The Letter Black, formally known as Breaking the Silence. Legendary producer Toby Wright (Alice In Chains, Korn, 3 Doors Down) is working with the band in Seattle on their label debut, Breaking the Silence, which will release this fall (September) before the band hits the road on a major tour. The Letter Black is fronted by female vocalist Sarah Anthony, followed by her husband Mark Anthony (guitar / background vocals), Matt Beal (bass), Mat Slagle (drummer) and Perry Johnson (guitar).
Celebrating their joining the T&N family, Sarah Anthony shared when announcing the band’s news to their MySpace followers, “We’re very excited to join such a historic roster alongside so many great bands. The Tooth & Nail Family is extremely hard working and dedicated to supporting the goals we’ve set as a band. They have a solid understanding of the direction we’re looking to take this band, and we feel honored to team up with them.”
Describing the band’s songs, Mark Anthony shares, “Our songs are not always happy, but rather about real life situations. All of us go through different chapters in our lives, and in these chapters we write letters of good and bad times. Some letters in our chapters, we are happy to share. Others, we are not so proud to reveal. The Letter Black reminds us of the past mistakes we have made and helps us remember to not keep making the same mistakes.”
Formed in 2006, the band already has a strong established fan-base and plan to continue to expand this as they play at major festivals this summer including next week at the historical rock Cornerstone Festival, Rock the Desert (August) as well as a guest act on a major fall rock tour. With an impressive streak of 150 shows a year, a recent slot on the successful Five 4 Five Tour, this Uniontown, Pennsylvania-based band is sure to bring a major amount of attention on Tooth & Nail Records.
Stay tuned to YMZ as we will bring you further updates on The Letter Black.
« Return to Previous PageJason Crabb Steps Into Country Spotlight With Highly Anticipated Spring Hill Debut June 30th
Publish Date: Jun 24, 2009
The highly anticipated Spring Hill Music self-titled debut from one of today’s most prolific vocalists, Jason Crabb, is slated to bow June 30th. Produced by Tommy Sims (Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith), Norro Wilson (Kenny Chesney, Reba) and Crabb, the 12-song set also features guest appearances from Vince Gill, Sonya Isaacs and the Gaither Vocal Band.
Highlights of the album include the debut Gospel single “Walk on Water”, “Somebody Like Me”, “Ellsworth” (with Vince Gill), “Daystar” (with Gaither Vocal Band), “Sometimes I Cry, and a new arrangement of The Crabb Family classic “Through the Fire”. The project showcases credits from some of Nashville’s top songwriters, including Neil Thrasher, Radney Foster, Randy Goodrum, Gordon Kennedy, and Crabb’s father and award-winning writer Gerald Crabb, among others.
“I’ve always wanted to do a solo project,” says Crabb. “And I am blessed that at this time in my life, I have all the ingredients to create one that I can be proud of – a great label, great songs, great producers and some extremely talented folks to sing on this project.
Jason Crabb (right) is pictured in the studio with producer Norro Wilson (left) and Vince Gill [Click image to enlarge]
“I hope whatever the listener is feeling in his or her life at a particular moment, there will be a song on this record that will help him or her find their way through the trial. If someone has a bad day or if they are just feeling a little lonely, I hope they will find strength in this recording.”
The recording will be featured this summer on numerous television outlets including the Great American Country (GAC) Network, the RFD Network, Gospel Music Channel and Daystar Television Network, among others.
Jason Crabb is best known as the powerhouse lead vocalist for one of Southern Gospel’s most acclaimed and awarded groups, The Crabb Family. In addition to 10 Dove Awards and three GRAMMY® nominations with his family, Crabb has performed on the Grand Ole Opry, at the final Billy Graham Crusade in New York, and has sung with the legendary Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, among many other diverse and prestigious opportunities.
Preview several tracks from the album on Crabb’s YMZ artist page.
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Jason Crabb Steps Into Solo Spotlight At GMA Music Week
Jason Crabb Signs His First Solo Recording Deal
« Return to Previous PageJonny Diaz Goes No. 1 With “More Beautiful You”
Publish Date: Jun 24, 2009
“More Beautiful You”, the single by INO Records’ recording artist Jonny Diaz (pronounced “DYE-az” ), has topped the charts. This week, the hit song claims the no. 1 spot on the AC Indicator Charts (according to Radio & Records Music Tracking/Billboard). This is the first single released from Diaz’s fourth recorded project, More Beautiful You, his very first with INO Records.
“I’ve been blown away at how God is choosing to use this song,” exclaims Diaz over the song’s top chart position. “I really can’t take any credit for its success, but I am thankful that He is using me as a vessel to share this extremely important message.”
Radio support continues to grow across the board for “More Beautiful You” with new adds at AC from K-LOVE Radio Network, American Family Radio, WGTS / Washington, DC, KTSY / Boise, ID, and CHR stations KDUV/ Visalia, CA, & WJLZ / Virginia Beach, VA.
Co-written by Diaz, the song aims to tell women they were created by God with a specific purpose in mind and continues to impact listeners of all ages. In addition, “More Beautiful You” has not only been taking over the radio airwaves but is also a huge hit on the internet and television, thanks to its unique music video. Premiering the first week in June on the Spirit Network and currently can be viewed online at YMZ’s Media section, the video showcases how girls of all ages compare themselves to the “perfect” pictures of celebrities and models in magazines and on the internet. The viewer sees this video story unfold through a mother and daughter being doted on by makeup artists and hair stylists, ending with the message that touched up photos and a lot of makeup don’t matter. What matters most is to embrace who God made you to be. Also available in the Media section is the story behind the song, a behind the scenes video, and teaching lesson for “More Beautiful You”.
Celebrating the emerging success of “More Beautiful You,” station programmers and talent have been happy to share their thoughts, as well as their listeners’, about this hit song:
Susan O’Donnell, KSBJ / Houston, TX
Caryn Cruise, KXOJ / Tulsa, OK
Marisa Lykins, WYLV / Knoxville, TN
Morgan Smith, SOLUTION FM / Bangor, ME
More Beautiful You is now available at Christian retailers across Canada.
Related articles
Jonny Diaz “More Beautiful You” Video Impacts Fans Profoundly
Jonny Diaz’s “More Beautiful You” Hits Shelves This Week And Is Already A Top 10 Hit
Jonny Diaz Already Generating Huge Buzz At Radio With “More Beautiful You”
« Return to Previous Page“Revelation Song” Heralds Phillips, Craig And Dean’s Release Of “Fearless” On August 4th
Publish Date: Jun 23, 2009
Decorated Christian trio Phillips, Craig and Dean will release their tenth studio album on INO Records on August 4th titled Fearless. Preceding the late summer release, the band’s first single “Revelation Song” is already a smash hit at radio and iTunes® landing in the Top 5 AC and Top 10 INSPO positions at radio while maintaining a Top 5 spot on iTunes® Christian & Gospel “Top Songs” chart for the past four weeks.
Uniquely gifted and positioned in their dual roles as musicians and full-time senior pastors in three different U.S. cities, Randy Phillips, Shawn Craig and Dan Dean know well the current struggles people in their congregations face, which is where the compelling idea behind Fearless was created. Produced by Bernie Herms (Casting Crowns), the 10 track album features songs co-written by each band member including “The Distance”, “Nothing to Prove” and “The Spirit of God is Here”, which Phillips co-wrote with Paul Baloche.
“We were talking about how afraid our church members are today,” recalls Phillips. “A look at your finances right now might mean kids who wanted to go to college can’t, and so on. The fear that brings can be so paralysing; it puts you in a cage. But then we asked ourselves, Shouldn’t believers who have the heart of eternity in them be different? That’s when we found our theme: fear less, hope more. This is an opportunity to show our power is in God alone.”
Among the band’s new music, each admits that “Revelation Song” is a tune the band has wanted to record for some time and aptly supports the theme of Fearless. To hear the story behind “Revelation Song” in the band’s own word, visit the YMZ Media section.
“This song captures the moment of looking up into Heaven, peeling back the curtain of eternity so we can peek in,” says Phillips. “If you keep your eyes on the Dow Jones or nuclear weapons in North Korea, you’ll always be nervous. Look to the awesomeness of God instead.”
Amidst “Revelation Song’s” success at radio, the song is receiving support from major markets & stations such as K-LOVE, KLTY/Dallas, KSBJ/Houston, WPOZ/Orlando, KCMS/Seattle, The Fish/Nashville and American Family Radio among many others.
In addition, national radio network K-LOVE recently partnered with Phillips, Craig and Dean for a Father’s Day contest they called “Hoosier Daddy?” The winner, Jeff Hannan, of Ft. Smith, Arkansas won the trip of a lifetime to the Hoosier State – Indiana. Later this fall, Jeff and his dad will be VIP guests to a Phillips, Craig and Dean concert, enjoy a round of golf at the prestigious Brickyard Crossing golf course, take a tour of the Indianapolis 500 Raceway and experience Opening Day of the NFL season at the Indianapolis Colts game! K-LOVE Brand Manager Mike Tedesco said of the promotion, “It was fun watching as this promotion transformed from a simple idea to something memorable.”
During street week, the band will be making promotional stops (to be announced) in support of Fearless. Phillips, Craig and Dean will also be performing tour dates across the country including appearances at Gateway Church, Atlanta’s Celebrate Freedom and at Brooklyn Tabernacle. For the most update tour info, please visit www.phillipscraiganddean.com.
In their 18 years of ministry as a Christian music staple, Phillips, Craig & Dean has no doubt achieved longevity in the ever changing music industry with 16 No. 1 radio hits, 10 albums, two million plus records sold and nine Dove Award nominations.
Preview the tracks mentioned in the article on the group’s YMZ artist page.
Phillips, Craig and Dean Touring Schedule [all tour dates subject to change]:
Jul. 10 Lifefest, Oshkosh, WI
« Return to Previous PageJul. 31 Gateway Church, Southlake, TX
Sept. 5 Celebrate Freedom, Atlanta, GA
Sept. 11 First Church of the Nazarene, Indianapolis, IN
Sept. 25 Central Christian Church, Mr. Vernon, IL
Oct. 4 Brooklyn Tabernacle, Brooklyn, NY
Oct. 15 Southeast Christian Church, Parker, CO
Nov. 5 First Assembly, Cedar Rapids, IA
Nov. 6 Emmanuel Christian Center, Minneapolis, MN
Nov. 19 Pentecostals of Alexandria, Alexandria, LA
Dec. 17 Christian Celebration Center, Midland, MI
Britt Nicole Introduces “The Lost Get Found”
Publish Date: Jun 23, 2009
Hear Sparrow Records artist Britt Nicole’s take on her new radio single, “The Lost Get Found”. The track is taken from her forthcoming August 11th release of the same title. The single debuted at no. 4 On the Soundscan christian/gospel digital tracks chart.
Find out more about the album on Nicole’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageFreddy Rodriguez To Appear On TBN This Week
Publish Date: Jun 23, 2009
Integrity Music worship artist Freddy Rodriguez will appear on TBN’s “Praise the Lord” program twice this week.
His first appearance is slated for Wednesday, June 24th at 9:00 p.m. CDT during a show hosted by actor and author Clifton Davis. (That program will re-air the following day at 4:00 p.m.). A second, separate guest appearance for “Praise the Lord” will air on Saturday, June 27th at 6:00 p.m. CDT. This program will be hosted by Dr. A.R. Bernard, pastor of the Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn, NY.
Rodriguez will perform songs from his critically-acclaimed debut CD, Light in the Darkness, which was hailed by ChristianityToday.com as “the best gospel-based worship recording since Israel’s classic Live From Another Level.” Check out the album on Rodriguez’s YMZ artist page. You can hear Rodriguez talk about the album in his video EPK in the YMZ Media section (it’s about halfway down).
« Return to Previous PageJason Gray Takes Listeners To A New Intimate Level On Upcoming Album
Publish Date: Jun 23, 2009
Jason Gray, one of Christian music’s premiere singer/songwriters, is poised to release his second studio album on Centricity Music. Everything Sad Is Coming Untrue will be available at Canadian Christian retailer on September 1st.
Everything Sad Is Coming Untrue was produced by Jason Ingram (Meredith Andrews, Tenth Avenue North) and Rusty Varenkamp (Rush Of Fools, Bebo Norman) and artfully blends elements of folk, alternative rock and even some R&B into the project. Gray, a highly respected songwriter among his peers, has once again written all songs for the new CD.
“Pop music has gotten a bad reputation over the years as being fluffy and insubstantial,” Jason acknowledges, “so I came into this project asking ‘What if I could aim for writing intelligent and weighty lyrics with a pop discipline?’ Admittedly, that’s the hardest kind of song for me to write – to take my passion for ideas and lyrics and pare it down to a 3 1/2 minute pop song. Just about every song I wrote had three verses and Jason Ingram was always pushing me to drop one of them. But he was right and the songs are better for it.”
Gray’s previous project, All The Lovely Losers, dealt with brokenness and now he takes the subject a step further, dealing with brokenness that begins with confession. “More Like Falling In Love” takes the listener to a deeper level, asking to fall in love with Christ instead of just following the rules of Christianity. “For The First Time Again” explores the excitement of when we first accepted Christ and how we lose that enthralment when burdened down by our life experiences and tight regulations within the church. “Does It Fade With Our Voices”, is a worship song that celebrates our spiritual lives and sacrifices. The title track is one of the most powerful songs on Everything Sad Is Coming Untrue but it’s proved to be a rather difficult one for Gray to write.
“‘Everything Sad Is Coming Untrue’ was the most difficult song I’ve ever written,” Jason admits, “all five times that I wrote it! It’s about renewal, both the longing for it and the promise of it. The inspiration came from a quote of Samwise Gamgee in ‘The Lord Of The Rings’ and the beauty and truth of it captured my imagination and wouldn’t let me go. The trick was trying to express an idea that meant so much to me in a way that might mean something to others. My wife was the litmus test. I kept working on the songs for over a year until I arrived at two versions of it that when I played them for Taya she said, ‘I get it now… that’s it.’ My wife’s tears are the biggest stamp of approval on a song, because she knows me too well to be impressed by any of my parlour tricks.”
Gray will heading out on an early September tour with Sanctus Real in support of the new project. Stay tuned to YMZ as we shall bring you further updates on Everything Sad Is Coming Untrue. In the meantime, check out All The Lovely Losers on Gray’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageLonestar Vocalist Richie McDonald Releases Debut Christian Project “I Turn To You”
Publish Date: Jun 23, 2009
One of Country music’s premiere vocalists and respected songwriters, Richie McDonald, will release his debut Contemporary Christian project, I Turn To You, on June 23rd. The CD was produced by McDonald’s long-time friend, Frank Myers, and McDonald co-wrote all but two songs on the album. The project will be available at Christian retailers across Canada.
“I’ve always wanted to do this kind of album. I just thought it was time,” says McDonald. “I just feel like I’m doing music that really makes a difference. I’m doing what I’m supposed to be doing now and it feels right in my heart.”
“I am extremely honoured to partner with Richie and help him connect with retailers & the Christian community nationwide,” says Greg Lucid, President, Lucid Artist. “It has been a long time since the Christian music community rallied behind, supported and effectively launched a new artist. I feel confident Richie has both the talent and message and it’s resonating with retailers… I know that when people hear the lyrics and meet Richie that they will instantly see why he is so special.”
I Turn To You is a compelling project with songs that give hope, encourage faith, and give glory to our wonderful God. The title song is the first single that will be going for adds at radio on March 14th. Other songs include, “He’s Alive”, that makes a powerful Easter message with the confirmation that Christ is alive and active in lives, “Handle With Prayer” is a testimony about the power of prayer and the results it has on our lives, and “What Would He Do”, which is about living a life faithful to Jesus’ teachings. “Hey God” will be familiar to McDonald’s fans as it’s an acoustic version of the Lonestar hit that he wrote for the band.
McDonald is the vocalist for Country’s supergroup, Lonestar, and surprised the music row community by leaving the band after 16 years to pursue a solo career. McDonald wrote three #1 songs for Lonestar, “My Front Porch”, “Mr. Mom”, and “I’m Already There”, and was honored by BMI as Songwriter Of The Year in 2003. McDonald’s music is now on mainstream rock stations as the best-selling English group, Westlife, has done a cover version of “I’m Already There”, which was co-written by McDonald, Frank Myers, and Gary Baker.
For more information on I Turn To You, please visit McDonald’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageNew Music Tuesday Fresh Releases
Publish Date: Jun 23, 2009
Here are today’s new releases:
CDs
These titles are now available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the June and July New Music Tuesday poster. Also, visit the YMZ Music section to check out other upcoming releases.
« Return to Previous PageSkillet To Unveil “Awake” On August 25th
Publish Date: Jun 22, 2009
On the heels of the most successful record of their career, Atlantic/Ardent/INO Records’ active rockers Skillet will end the nearly three year span between projects with Awake, available in stores and at all online retailers on August 25th.
Produced by Howard Benson, (Daughtry, My Chemical Romance, The All American Rejects), the project is available now for pre-order via the band’s official website. A variety of packages are being offered, pairing the album with such bonuses as an exclusive Skillet t-shirt, an autographed VIP pass, and membership in Skillet’s official fan club. All pre-orders of Awake come with an immediate download of “Hero”.
Skilet rocks the Icthus Festival Click image to enlarge]
Now, as they headline and are creating a big buzz at the summer Christian festivals with their ‘electric’ live show, Skillet prepares to unveil what lead-singer/bassist and primary songwriter John Cooper calls a “turning of a page” for the band. “This album is even more immediate than “Comatose,” but there’s also a noticeable maturity,” he says. “Some of the songs are complex, others are just really intense rockers and overall there’s a real sense that we’re opening a new chapter. There are definitely some classic rock elements on the record, some very melodic moments with orchestration and piano, along with a lot of today’s heavier rock influences as well.”
The first example is the hook-heavy lead single “Hero”, already climbing Christian CHR (#15) and Rock radio (#6) charts, and getting an excellent reception:
“We’ve anxiously awaited a new song from Skillet for months and they’ve lived up to our lofty hopes,” commented WAY-FM’S Zach Boehm. “Our initial listener response has been great!”
Other outpourings include the first Mainstream and Active Rock single “Monster”, the militant “It’s Not Me”, and the hopeful “Forgiven”. There are also a handful of gripping ballads and crossover songs like the loss-centered “Lucy”, the melodic “Don’t Wake Me” and “One Day Too Late”. “Never Surrender” came from a conversation with a fan about their eating disorder, and what is sure to become a live show favorite is the rocker “Awake & Alive”. To listen to a clip of “Hero,” the band’s YMZ artist page.
“We’re living in hard times right now between the news that seems to get crazier every day and all the uncertainly throughout society in general,” says Cooper. “Sometimes it doesn’t seem like there’s hope, and sure you can choose to give up, but why not face it ‘Awake and Alive’? Life is full of challenges, and sometimes when you look deep into yourself, you can feel weighed down by sin and the ‘Monster’ that lives inside us all. But the more you realize your need for Christ, the less you focus on that, and on Him instead. Everything we sing about on this album is something someone can relate to, and if anything, the songs will let you know you’re not alone.”
About Skillet
Since 2006’s breakthrough project “Comatose,” which is approaching RIAA Gold® certification, Skillet has toured with the likes of mainstream mega-stars Breaking Benjamin, Three Days Grace, Seether and Flyleaf, and headlined a slew of major Christian festivals, all followed by solo tours that ranked within Pollstar’s Concert Pulse Top 50 Tours. Along the way, the two-time Grammy®-nominated alternative outfit also scored six consecutive number one Christian radio singles, a 2008 GMA Dove Award for Rock Song of the Year, and a 2009 nomination for Artist of the Year. Along with a trio of singles on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock charts, a pair of BMI Songwriting Awards, and being chosen as Reader’s Poll favourites on several top ccm websites, they also released their first ever concert CD/DVD combo pack Comatose Comes Alive.
« Return to Previous PageSeabird Joins Jars Of Clay On “Two Hands” Tour
Publish Date: Jun 19, 2009
« Return to Previous PagePhoto by Lucas Boto [Click image to enlarge]
Credential Recordings band Seabird breaks for a photo with Jars of Clay before taking the stage at Gothic Theater in Englewood, Colorado on June 4th. The band is currently opening as a special guest on Jars of Clay’s “Two Hands” tour, wrapping in Seabird’s hometown of Cincinnati on July 18th.
Don Poythress And Richie McDonald Featured On HearItFirst.ca
Publish Date: Jun 19, 2009
This week’s premieres include a successful country music song-writer and the lead vocalist for country group Lonestar.
Worship… pure and simple is what Wash Away is all about. Recorded live at Christ Church in Nashville, Tennessee, Wash Away features Don Poythress in a moving worship experience from the heart of one of Nashville’s top worship leaders and songwriters.
Joined by guest artists Paul Baloche and Ricky Skaggs, Wash Away features vibrant songs, powerful lyrics and styling that is modern acoustic worship at its best.
Widely acclaimed as a songwriter, Don has found a home for many of his songs on recordings by The Martins, Jaci Velasquez, Tim McGraw, Bonnie Raitt, Sheryl Crow, Kellie Pickler and many others.
Wash Away is available as a CD, CD Trax, a songbook and a CD-ROM digital songbook.
Richie McDonald, the powerhouse vocalist for the Platinum®-selling group Lonestar, has embarked on a solo career and the first album release is his debut Contemporary Christian CD, I Turn To You.
The project showcases McDonald’s incredible vocals but also focuses on his award-winning song-writing skills that display the depth and intelligence of the lyrics.
McDonald wrote several of Lonestar’s mega-hits and also for Country hit-makers, Billy Dean, Heartland, Clay Walker and Sara Evans. Although McDonald will continue to record Country projects, I Turn To You is the album he’s always wanted to make.
Specially priced at $14.99, I Turn To You, together with Wash Away will be arriving at your local Canadian Christian retailer this Tuesday, June 23rd. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.
« Return to Previous PageSteven Curtis Chapman Fans Display “A Father’s Love” In Special Father’s Day Video Tribute
Publish Date: Jun 18, 2009
Steven Curtis Chapman fans displayed “a father’s love” for their children in a special Father’s Day video tribute that features Chapman’s hit single “Cinderella”. Fans were encouraged to submit family photos and as a result, over 150 photos were chosen to create two heart-warming videos on animoto.com. To view these unique Father’s Day tributes visit the YMZ Media section. In addition, everyone is invited to create his or her own Father’s Day video to “Cinderella” by visiting here.
“Cinderella”, inspired by Chapman’s youngest daughters Stevie Joy and Maria Sue, is a song that reflects how we must cherish every moment we are given with those that we love, especially with our children. Chapman reminds us that life is too short and too fast; to take hold of the small and large moments that occur throughout life because “all too soon the clock will strike midnight, and she’ll be gone” (lyrics from Cinderella).
The song can be found on This Moment, This Moment Special Edition and This Moment: Cinderella Edition. Hear the story behind the song as told by Steven in the YMZ Media section (it is at the very bottom).
« Return to Previous PageFee Unveils Sophomore Project “Hope Rising” On October 6th
Publish Date: Jun 18, 2009
After a stellar debut, Fee is prepping to release their sophomore album titled Hope Rising with the first single “Glory to God Forever” going for adds at radio on June 19th.
“We are thrilled that the success of the first record is giving us a platform with Hope Rising to inject God into the equation of tragedy and uncertainty going on in the world,” says front man Steve Fee.
The band’s second project comes after much acclaim from their freshman album We Shine which garnered a no. 1 radio smash hit in “All Because of Jesus”, a Worship Leader Praise Award for “Breakout Artist” and four GMA Dove Award nominations including a nod in the “New Artist of the Year” category.
Produced by Jason Hoard and lead singer Steve Fee, the Atlanta-based foursome’s newest release contains twelve original tracks. Though the band continued with their signature worship sound on the record, Hope Rising also includes statement songs that the band hopes will transcend one style of music. It was after recording tracks such as “Everything Falls” and “Promised Land”, that the group decided on the title Hope Rising. In fact, the song “Arms that Hold the Universe” was born out of a concert the band did shortly after the March church shooting in Maryville, Illinois for the congregation as a message reminding listeners that when you factor in God to any circumstance, you will find hope.
As for the band’s first single, Steve says, “There is a message for us here in this era and period in church history. I’m confident that songs which echo the victory of Christ are exactly what we, the Church, want to say and God, in his timely way, put songs in us like ‘Glory To God Forever’.”
This summer, Fee will also participate in some of the country’s biggest festivals including Atlanta Fest, Creation East and Unity Festival. For the band’s most updated touring schedule, please visit their website, www.feeband.com.
About Fee
From national worship conferences to local youth group meetings, Fee has brought a new level of abandon and talent to rock worship, gifting today’s church with riveting songs of praise. Known for amazing live performances and the No. 1 hit “All Because of Jesus” plus “Glorious One”, and Christmas song “All Creation Sing (Joy To The World)”, Fee continues to inspire the church musically with this all-new release of soon-to-be modern classics. The band has been associated with some of today’s most forthcoming faith-based events including Passion, 7:22 and Catalyst conferences. Fee released their debut INO project and GMA Dove Award nominated We Shine in September 2007. The band’s hit single “All Because of Jesus” also garnered the No. 10 spot on R&R’s AC Songs of the Year. Fee Front man Steve Fee was also selected to lead worship at the 92nd annual Indianapolis 500 chapel services in 2008, the biggest event of the Indy Car Series. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Steve Fee, Matt Adkins, Heath Balltzglier and Brandon Coker still lead worship at the North Point Community Church.
Stay tuned to YMZ as we will bring up further updates on Hope Rising. Check out their debut, We Shine, on the band’s YMZ artist page. It is available at your local Canadian Christian retailer.
« Return to Previous PageMelinda Watts To Release “People Get Ready”
Publish Date: Jun 17, 2009
Melinda Watts, the season three winner of Gospel Music Channel’s popular reality talent search series, Gospel Dream, will fulfill her life long dream as she is set to release her first album this summer. Signed with Razor & Tie Entertainment for a worldwide multi-album deal, Watt’s debut album, People Get Ready, will be released nation-wide on July 28th.
Born in New Jersey and hailing from Sacramento, California, Watts began singing at the age of six. Her powerhouse vocals and warm bravado have captured the hearts of millions of fans, when she won the American Idol®-esque show. Influenced by legends CeCe Winans, Natalie Grant and Shirley Caesar, Melinda shares a love of music and her church.
People Get Ready is a bright and dynamic album that showcases Watts’ vibrant vocals along with strong contemporary production. The celebratory first single, “So Good”, has already made waves at Gospel radio and is upbeat pop track that absolutely defies you to get up and dance.
Slick grooves, hopeful lyrics, and an exuberant vibe are interwoven throughout People Get Ready, which recalls other leading ladies of urban gospel like Mary Mary and Kierra Sheard. From the explosive, dance-friendly tracks of “Say Yes”, and “Happy” to intimate worship songs like “Available To You”, a duet with J Moss, and wonderful rendition of “Faith”, there is no doubt as to why Watts won over judges and audiences alike.
Watts will be set out on a promotional tour this summer in support of the release with stops in New York, Atlanta, Chicago and Philadelphia. She’s already been chosen to tape an upcoming episode BET’s “Lift Every Voice”, and will be a part of the Gospel Music Channel’s Gospel Dream 2009 season set to start airing in June.
“I’ve always had a love of music and I have been singing in church my whole life,” Watts explains. “God’s grace brought me here. A lot of faith in God and remembering that it’s okay to dream even when you feel you can’t.”
Watts, a former high school English teacher and active member of her Sacramento community, started the non-profit organizations Project Sunday and Heaven’s House to address the great need for mentoring and ministering to young women in her community.
Melinda Watts is managed by Mitchell Solarek of Maximum Artist Management.
Preview the tracks that are mentioned in the article by visiting Watt’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageStaci Frenes’ “What I Won’t Leave Without” Resonates On Radio And With Churches
Publish Date: Jun 17, 2009
The second single from acclaimed singer/songwriter, Staci Frenes’ Meteor Shower CD, “What I Won’t Leave Without”, is currently sitting at #18 on the AC charts and #6 on CHR formats, and is connecting with both radio and live audiences nation-wide.
Already in rotation in several church worship music repertoires, as well as hundreds of radio stations across the nation, the driving pop/rock anthem expresses Frenes’ longing and persistence to encounter God. “Wherever I sing this song, I am seeing this hunger resonate with other believers. We are not playing church when we gather; we want see God and hear what He has to say to us, nothing less,” says Frenes.
Frenes’ home church of Cornerstone Fellowship in Livermore, CA, a non-denominational church of 5,000+ where Staci periodically leads worship, added “What I Won’t Leave Without” to its weekend worship song list earlier this year. “The song connected with our fellowship from the first time Staci led it in worship,” says worship director, Scott Haus. Frenes, the sole songwriter, is offering the song (in mp3 or .wav format) and chord chart as free downloads for worship pastors who would like to lead it at their own church. Download the resources here.
“Of all the songs on this new CD, this is the one I think people want to sing for themselves, to repeat as a prayer. David’s words. ‘as the deer pants for water, so my soul longs after You’ are ones we all echo within our spirit; this song has that same sense of yearning. I love that people are connecting with it so deeply.”
Staci and Band performed the song at Live From Studio B recently. You can view the video here.
Meteor Shower, together with Nothing Short Of Amazing, is available at Christian retailers across Canada. Check them out on Frenes’ YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageREAL LIFE Film Festival 2009 Winner Announced
Publish Date: Jun 17, 2009
Sunday, June 7th marked the inauguration of the Viewer’s Choice Award winner for the 2009 REAL LIFE Film Festival du cinéma C’EST LA VIE, a new film event that took place June 5th-7th, 2009 in Sudbury, Ontario.
Organized by La Porte des Eaux / The Water Gate, this festival featured more than 15 award-winning films, shorts and documentaries. These unique gems surprised and delighted guests of all ages.
“The REAL LIFE Film Festival has brought a collection of faith-based, inspirational, family-friendly and engaging films to Sudbury,” commented Lina Madore, Director of La Porte des Eaux. “From the quality of films, to the guest professional musician emcees, to the outstanding community and business support – this event surpassed our expectations.
Throughout the weekend, cinephiles tracked their favourites and by Sunday, June 7th, the votes were tabulated, culminating in the selection of the 2009 Viewer’s Choice Award recipient: Faith Like Potatoes. This South African film is winner of many international awards, including the winner of Best Supporting Actor and Best Editing (Golden Horn 06), the Golden Ten Award, Feature Fiction (Mumbai International FICTS Festival), and People’s Choice Award (SABAOTH International Film Festival).
The runner up film was Bella, the REAL LIFE Film Festival Gala feature film, and winner of the Toronto International Film Festival People’s Choice Award.
Third place was Fireproof, winner of Best Feature Film (San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival), $100,000 Epiphany Prize (17th Annual Movieguide Faith & Values Awards Gala), and Best Drama (The Dove Foundation’s Crystal Seal Awards).
Based on the success of this event, Madore is already making plans for 2010. “We have received tremendous positive feedback, and know that the time is right, not just for Sudbury, but for Canada. There is a need, and even a voiced demand, for faith-based, inspirational and family-friendly films. The REAL LIFE Film Festival could be just the vehicle to answer that call.”
More information about the film festival is available at www.sudburycinema.com.
Faith Like Potatoes and Fireproof, the no. 1 selling DVD at Christian retail, are available now at your local Canadian Christian retailer.
« Return to Previous PageMike Weaver’s Second “90in09” Feature To Broadcast This Wednesday On The 700 Club
Publish Date: Jun 16, 2009
The second of a three-part story featuring Big Daddy Weave’s Mike Weaver and his “90 in ‘09” weight loss challenge is scheduled to broadcast this Wednesday, June 17th on CBN’s nationally syndicated program, The 700 Club.
Since its launch at the beginning of 2009, Weaver has lost 45 lbs through a diet, exercise and mentoring program created by 90in09 support team members Dr. Asa Andrew, known as “America’s Health Coach®” and Scott Reall, author and founder of the YMCA’s Journey to Freedom program.
“Midway through this journey to lose 90 lbs in 2009 I find myself plateaued at 45 lbs down,” says Weaver. “This has been the most trying part of the journey yet. I’ve been fighting the discouragement and disappointment of feeling stuck!
“Yet in the middle of the frustration I’ve been so encouraged by the support of my friends and the voice of God, cheering me on to obedience despite what I see on the scale. I fully believe that I’ll reach this year’s goal, but am so glad to learn that weight loss is not nearly as important as simple obedience!”
Since its launch at the beginning of 2009, nearly 10,000 individuals from across the nation have joined the 90 in ‘09 campaign to start a healthier lifestyle. In addition to joining the health initiative at www.90in09.com and tracking their successes, participants further have access to healthy food recipes, exercise techniques and more wellness information.
Obesity is the second leading cause of preventable death after smoking, according to a CDC report, and is associated with type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, coronary artery disease, arthritis, gallstones and certain types of cancer. Andrew further explains that 80% of health challenges people face today are diet and lifestyle related. Other statistics show that 65% of Americans are overweight while 35% are clinically obese.
For information on The 700 Club broadcast times, visit www.cbn.com/700club or check your local listings.
Related articles
Big Daddy Weave’s Mike Weaver Featured on The 700 Club This Wednesday
Big Daddy Weave’s Mike Weaver Launches “90 in ‘09” Challenge
« Return to Previous PageCanadian Radio Stations Listings Updated
Publish Date: Jun 16, 2009
Check out the new and improved Candian Christian radio station listings in the YMZ Media section.
If there is not a station near you, many of the stations listed can be heard online. Discover great new music via the airwaves and find outmore about the artists here on YMZ. Music from the artists listed on YMZ can be found at your local Canadian Christian retailer.
« Return to Previous PageRemedy Drive Celebrates Six Weeks at No. 1
Publish Date: Jun 16, 2009
Word Records’ rock newcomers Remedy Drive are currently celebrating their sixth week at the top of the CHR chart with their breakout single, “All Along”. Their No. 1 slot also marked the last No. 1 song on Radio & Record’s CHR chart (the publication has now been incorporated into Billboard).
The group also recently teamed up with Air 1 and Creation Festival for a unique summer road trip promotion. The winner, from Queen Creek, AZ, was announced yesterday and will be flown to Seattle, where they will then take an RV to complete the road trip to Creation Festival in Washington state. For more details, check it out here.
Remedy Drive’s 2009 Summer Tour Schedule:
June 18: Atlantafest, Stone Mountain, GA
June 19: Alive Festival, Canal Fulton, OH
June 20: Big Ticket Festival, Gaylord, MI
June 24: Creation Northeast, Shirleysburg, PA
July 3: Cornerstone Festival, Marietta, IL
July 9: King’s Fest, Doswell, VA
July 10: King’s Island, Cincinnati, OH
July 11: Lifest, Oshkosh, WI
July 16: Sonshine Festival, Willmar, MN
July 19: Hills Alive Festival, Rapid City, SD
July 22: Creation Northwest, George, WA
July 31: SoulFest, Gilford, NH
August 1: Rock The Sound, New York, NY
August 5: Kingdombound Festival, Darien Center, NY
August 6: UnityFest, Muskegon, MI
August 15: NewSong Festival, Leitchfield, KY
September 5: Lifelight, Sioux Falls, SD
September 11: Rock The Universe, Orlando, FL
September 26: AwakeningFest, Leesburg, VA
For more information on Remedy Drive and their debut release Daylight Is Coming, please visit their YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageNew Music Tuesday Fresh Releases
Publish Date: Jun 16, 2009
Here are today’s new releases:
CDs
DVDs
Songbook
These titles are now available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the June New Music Tuesday poster. Also, visit the YMZ Music section to check out other upcoming releases.
« Return to Previous PagepureNRG Poised To Release Fourth Studio Album “The Real Thing” On July 14th
Publish Date: Jun 15, 2009
Christian music’s favourite tween group, pureNRG, is scheduled to release their fourth studio album (including a Christmas album) on Fervent Records, July 14th. The Real Thing was once again produced by the winning team of Rob Hawkins (Jackson Waters) and Mark Hammond (Everlife, Cheetah Girls, Ashley Tisdale).
“It’s unbelievable that we’re already releasing our fourth studio album this summer,” says pureNRG. “We had fun recording the new CD and think that our fans will like it. We can’t wait to start performing the new songs for everyone on our upcoming tour dates.”
The new project showcases upbeat dance numbers and ballads that spotlight the strong vocals of pureNRG, while also displaying a new maturity for the three members. (Jordan is now 16, Caroline, 14 and Carolyne, 13). The album has ten new songs with three sing-a-long versions of “Here We Go Again”, “Footloose”, and the new up-tempo, “Radio”, which explains how the airwaves brings Christ’s love through music and beams it across the world. The title track is a tribute to how Jesus is the real thing, the touching ballad, “Before The Sun Goes Down”, details how each of us should repent our sins before the day is done, with another ballad, “Sweet Jesus”, exalting Jesus as our refuge and friend. “Cover Of A Magazine”, tells the listener to put their self-worth in Christ instead of what’s popular in modern culture.
Fervent Records is offering exclusive pre-sale promotions in conjunction with The Real Thing. Fans can purchase advance autographed copies of the album at pureNRG’s website, or buy “The Real Thing” bundle that includes a t-shirt and poster along with the new CD. “The Real Thing” Summer Fun Pack is a must for any tween, besides the autographed CD, poster, and t-shirt, fans will receive a pureNRG multi-coloured beach ball, beach towel and purple sunglasses.
pureNRG just returned from their first international tour in Norway and did four performances for the Soul Children’s Festival. It was an educational event with 1,500 school age children from Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Ireland who were taught new music under several different conductors. pureNRG provided entertainment for the festival with three performances at the Konserthuset, which is similar to a performing arts centre and once at Jernbanetorget, which is an outdoor mall. While in the country, pureNRG also got to do some sightseeing with a tour of the Royal Palace and a beautiful boat ride in the city of Oslo.
pureNRG has a busy schedule ahead of them that includes the Creation West Festival in July, a second appearance in August at the American Airlines Center in Dallas at a Ringling Brother’s Circus event and a missions trip to Mexico in October.
For all updates on pureNRG please visit their website, www.pureNRGonline.com, where fans can also register for a free clubNRG user account. The account offers exclusive videos, photos, giveaways and discounts to the pureNRG store while interacting with other fans on the website. You can get a sneak peek of “Live To Worship” on the group’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageManic Drive And Lara Landon Sign With Bema Media
Publish Date: Jun 15, 2009
Bema Media has announced the signings of singer-songwriter Lara Landon and Canadian rockers Manic Drive, whose upcoming album will be released through a partnership with Whiplash Records. With these new acquisitions, Bema Media is expanding beyond their current teen/tween roster that includes such popular acts as Mission Six, Jasmine, The Rubyz and the iShine Tour. Manic Drive’s latest release Blue will hit stores on August 18th, followed by Landon’s debut album Beloved on September 22nd.
As one of Canada’s most popular Christian bands, Manic Drive earned a record seven GMA Canada Covenant Award nominations this year, taking home two awards for Rock Album of the Year and Video of the Year. Their hit single “Blue” is the first single from the upcoming album, and the accompanying music video has climbed to #2 on Gospel Music Channel’s rock video chart. Manic Drive will be touring throughout the summer, including main stage performances at Ichthus Festival, SoulFest, Uprise Festival, Unity Christian Music Festival, Rock the Desert and JoshuaFest. They will be appearing at the Oakville Waterfront Festival in Ontario on June 28th. Check the YMZ Concert listings for more details.
Lara Landon’s debut album was produced by multiple GRAMMY® Award winning producer Michael Omartian (Christopher Cross, Amy Grant, Whitney Houston, Rod Stewart). Landon’s songs are full of life and meaning, and Omartian helped to find the right combination of sweeping string arrangements and quiet piano to create the perfect background for Landon’s musings about the grandeur and the intimacy of a relationship with a loving God. With instant comparisons to artists like Plumb, Imogen Heap and Tori Amos, Landon’s debut is certain to resonate with listeners looking for music that means something.
Manic Drive recently appeared at the Dog & Pony Show during GMA Music Week in Nashville. View photos from the event in the YMZ Photo Gallery. Preview snippets from several tracks off Blue on the band’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageMatt Maher Releases Sophomore Project “Alive Again” September 22nd
Publish Date: Jun 15, 2009
“John Eldridge said, ‘You can sum up the Bible in two words: come closer.’ That’s what I hope these songs do – bring people closer to Christ.”
Matt Maher
Worship artist and renowned songwriter Matt Maher, whose breakout composition, “Your Grace is Enough” appeared on his 2008 debut Empty & Beautiful, recently completed recording his widely-anticipated follow-up Alive Again set to release September 22nd.
Photo By: Tec Petaja
Alive Again, Maher’s second studio recording with Essential records, solidly captures the penetrating spirit and charisma he has become known for in a live setting. Produced by Christopher Stevens (Delirious?, tobyMac) and Paul Moak (Mat Kearney, CompassionArt), the 12 song album is both immediate and soulful. Matt’s addictive organic-pop sound melded with vulnerable and engaging lyrics make Alive Again a soundtrack for believers in both personal times of worship and corporate moments on Sunday mornings.
“On a musical level, I feel more confident; like I have more freedom to make mistakes and to be more authentic than ever before,” explains Maher. “There’s a certain ‘rawness’ on this album that’s true to who I am and how I communicate.”
Maher has long seen his music born out of community. This time around, in fact, every song on Alive Again was co-written. Featured co-writers include SESAC’s 2008 Christian songwriter of the year Jason Ingram, Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, up-and-coming writer/vocalist Audrey Assad, Mark Byrd (City On A Hill, Common Children, Glassbyrd, Hammock) and Mia Fieldes (Hillsong).
“The process of making the record was a communal experience,” affirms Maher. “The writing process was like prayer between two people as opposed to a typical writing session. ... These songs were not written ‘about’ my faith, but ‘from’ my faith. They’re much more vulnerable and personal.”
The first single “Alive Again” goes for adds on July 3rd. Matt shares, ”’Alive Again’ is my attempt to use language and music in the form of a pop song to re-create the moment when God reached in and grabbed my heart for the very first time.There’s nothing more compelling than waking up in a dark world and knowing that God is fervently pursuing me and shouting my name—even if, at first,I don’t recognize His voice.”
As a poet-musician, “troubadour” is a term readily used to describe the artful theologian. Thematically, Maher explains that his music is about recognizing the pre-eminence of Christ in the world around you.
“You see the light before you see the sunrise,” he says. “God is ahead of us.” Maher also takes a broader view than conventional thinking when it comes to the influence of worship in a person’s life. “I hope Alive Again prompts listeners to stop and ask some tough questions about who they are and where they are letting God maneuver in their hearts,” he says.
Thanks to the international reach of songs he’s written and his recording agreement with Essential Records, the last two years have taken Maher from full-time ministry at his local church in Mesa, Arizona, to a high-profile platform, leading worship around the world. His instant classic, “Your Grace Is Enough” saw especially strong gains in church exposure during the spring and summer of 2008.
According to Christian Copyright Licensing International (CCLI), which tracks the popularity of music in churches across the U.S., “Your Grace Is Enough” was the 13th most popular song sung in churches in the United States for the April to September 2008 tracking period. At the time, the song was sung in nearly 150,000 CCLI licensed churches in the U.S., which translates to more than five million people singing this song.
This summer finds Maher leading worship and performing new songs from Alive Again at the upcoming Worship Leader conference in July, leading worship at the International Christian Retail Show’s Sunday Worship service alongside Anne Graham Lotz and touring Australia before returning home for fall tour dates. Maher is scheduled to appear back in his home and native land the weekend of October 9th for YC Newfoundland. Event details can be found in the YMZ Concert listings.
About Matt Maher:
Matt Maher: worship leader, songwriter, singer and recording artist, has taken his calling as a
“musical missionary” to create a substantial impact on a national and global stage. As an award-winning songwriter, Maher gained notice as the co-writer of the internationally renowned modern-worship song, “Your Grace Is Enough,” recorded by Chris Tomlin.
Highly sought after for his poignant yet poetic writing style, Maher has recently had songs recorded by such artists as Tomlin; Bethany Dillon; Phillips, Craig & Dean; Brenton Brown and others. In addition, Maher’s songs have appeared in the top 15 ranked songs on the CCLI chart, marking their popularity in church worship-services around the world.
Maher’s major label debut, Empty & Beautiful, jump-started his work as a touring artist placing him in front of audiences worldwide, totalling more than 750,000 in 2008 alone. He has shared recent stages with artists such as Tomlin, Leeland, MercyMe, Michael W. Smith and Jeremy Camp, and was featured on the “Worshiptogether.com Live Tour” earlier this year.
His music, writing and live performances are intentional, compelling, experiential and draw people into a community of dependence on Christ. He’s not only a songwriter and worship leader; his ability to communicate allows him to facilitate community at the intersection where culture meets the church.
Amid busy touring and writing schedules, Maher finds it important to serve alongside ministries including Life Teen, Adore Ministries, and Catholic Relief Services while still playing an active role with Oregon Catholic Press’ spiritandsong.com. Further, he serves as a regular host for Worship Together’s “Newsong Café.” Maher, recently honoured with a Praise Award as Worship Leader’s Breakout Artist of 2008, has been featured on the covers of Breakaway and Christian Single, performed live on “FOX & Friends”, written for Billboard Magazine and is an active, by-lined contributor to OnFaith.com, an interactive conversation on religion.
For information on Matt Maher, please visit his YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageKari Jobe To Appear On The New “700 Club Interactive” On Tuesday, June 16th
Publish Date: Jun 15, 2009
Integrity Music/Gateway Create artist Kari Jobe will appear on “700 Club Interactive”, on Tuesday, June 16th at 9:30 a.m. ET, airing on ABC Family Network.
“700 Club Interactive” is the Christian Broadcasting Network’s new 30-minute show, which extends the brand of its long-running magazine show, “The 700 Club”. The highly interactive program incorporates live chat, utilizes Skype, Facebook and Twitter to connect with its viewers. Jobe performed and was interviewed for the program.
Jobe’s current self-titled hit debut CD includes the radio single and YouTube sensation “I’m Singing” which is currently #11 with a bullet at CRW Inspirational radio. The album was also released to Canadian Christian retailers in Spanish on April 28th.
The child of traveling ministers, Jobe began singing when she was only three and knew by age 10 that she wanted to lead worship. She spent time studying at Oral Roberts University, Christ For The Nations Institute and Dallas Baptist University where she finished her Psychology/Pastoral Ministries degree before joining the Gateway Church staff.
More information on Kari Jobe can be found on her YMZ artist page. Jobe can also be followed on Twitter. YMZ is also on Twitter. Join our growing gang of merry followers here.
« Return to Previous PageRobert Randolph & The Family Band
Publish Date: Jun 12, 2009
On a rainy and cold evening in Buffalo, NY, Robert Randolph & The Family Band rocked at soaked masses gathered at Lafayette Square. The free show was part of Thursday Night In The Square concert series. This was the second time in three years that the band has appeared here.
Part of the “Sacred Steel” movement where Randolph played pedal steel guitar at church in his home state of New Jersey, his pyrotechinics on the pedal steel has taken him to appearances with Eric Clapton and The Blind Boys Of Alabama. The band’s lastest release, Colorblind, features guest appearances by Clapton and Dave Matthews. Visit the band’s YMZ atist page and check out the different CDs that are available at Christian retailers across Canada.
Here are some exclusive photos from the concert [Click image to enlarge].
« Return to Previous PageRobin Mark, VeggieTales®, Skillet and pureNRG Release New Projects This Summer
Publish Date: Jun 12, 2009
Irish worship leader Robin Mark heads a list of new albums releasing this summer.
Mark’s Year Of Grace will following the tradition of Revival In Belfast releasing July 14th. VeggieTales® returns with a brand new Bible story with Minnesota Cuke And The Search For Noah’s Umbrella. The August 1st release will be coupled with a special two DVD deluxe edition and a free “umbrella” premium at select retailers. Hard rock outfit Skillet returns after a nearly three year wait with Awake releasing on August 4th. Select retailers will be offering a free Skillet t-shirt with purchase while quantities last.
Other new music releases include pureNRG on July 14th, Carried Away on June 16th, iWorship Hymns on August 4th, needtobreathe on August 25th, Lonestar’s Ritchie McDonald on June 23rd, Britt Nicole on August 11th, Aaron Shust August 4th and the Fireproof Original Motion Picture Soundtrack on July 14th.
New DVD titles include Paws and Tales on June 16th, the new Read And Share Bible title on July 14th and the introduction of Cherub Wings on June 16th.
You can check out the upcoming releases in the YMZ Music section.
« Return to Previous PageHillsong United Vaults To The Top
Publish Date: Jun 12, 2009
After six months at the top of the charts, Michael W. Smith’s A New Hallelujah has displaced by the latest Hillsong United release Across The Earth: Tear Down The Walls.
The latest Hillsong United album follows previous releases from the Australian modern worship group to enter the chart at no. 1, according to statistic based on actual sales during the month of May at Canadian Christian retail charts. Michael W. Smith’s album still remained strong at no. 2 followed closely by the new newsboys album In The Hands Of God which entered the chart at no. 3. Other new entries to the Top 50 chart included Mat Kearney at no. 19, Decyfer Down at no. 22 and Philip LaRue at no. 47.
The chart is based on sales at Canadian Christian retailers for the month of May. Download your own personal copy of the Top 50 CD chart here.
« Return to Previous PageFireproof Continues Hold On No. 1 DVD Chart For The Fifth Straight Month
Publish Date: Jun 12, 2009
Fireproof continues to sit atop of the Top 25 DVD sales chart based on sales in Christian retail stores across Canada.
The motion picture, which released on DVD in January has been at the no. 1 spot since its release. VeggieTales® Abe And The Amazing Promise stays firm at no. 2 with the new Janette Oke DVD Love Takes Wing entering the chart at no. 3. Faith Like Potatoes remaining strong moving to no. 4.
Other new entries this month include VeggieTales® Heroes Of The Bible: A Baby, A Quest And The Wild West at no. 7 and Third Day’s Live Revelations at no. 11.
The chart is based on sales at Canadian Christian retailers for the month of April. Download your own personal copy of the Top 25 DVD chart here.
« Return to Previous PageRobin Mark To Release “Year Of Grace” On July 14th
Publish Date: Jun 12, 2009
Celebrated Irish worship singer/songwriter Robin Mark offers a Year of Grace, his new Integrity Music CD which releases on July 14th.
Mark, based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, is known for blending traditional Celtic sounds with his passion for modern praise music. He has recorded 13 albums, including the most recent East of the River (2008) and his landmark 1999 recording of Revival in Belfast which remains on the worship charts a decade after its release. His signature song, “Days of Elijah”, has become one of the most sung worship songs ever.
His newest CD is Mark’s first live project recorded in the U.S. Produced by Paul Mills (Bluetree, Lincoln Brewster, Third Day), Year of Grace was recorded in Syracuse, NY at North Syracuse Baptist Church. According to Mark, recording the new CD in the U.S. was first born out of necessity. His home church in Northern Ireland, which had been host to several of his previous recordings, was scheduled to undergo a major renovation and expansion at the same time Mark was planning to record his new album.
Having visited and performed at North Syracuse Baptist last summer, Mark said, “I knew intuitively that the sound and passion of the New York concert crowd, enhanced and charged by the wonderful acoustics of the beautiful sanctuary, would have all the ingredients for a great recording.”
The CD’s title has its own interesting origin. Said Mark, “Coincidentally, one of the New York counties near Syracuse is called ‘Ulster’ and is named after the province of Ireland where in 1859 a year long revival took place. That year, 100,000 people came to Christ and the outpouring dramatically changed the country and that season became known as ‘The Year of Grace’. My CD Year of Grace is in part a celebration of what God did on that occasion 150 years ago, but mainly anticipates what He still can do in any nation of the world.”
The music of Year of Grace is reminiscent of Revival in Belfast, combining powerful worship songs with Mark’s unique Celtic/folk musical style. There are 12 tracks, including songs co-written with Paul Baloche, Vicky Beeching and fellow Irishman Johnny Parks.
Mark will be spending his summer touring the U.S. between June and September, visiting more than 30 U.S. cities and playing Creation Festival in June and Kingdom Bound in August. In late October, he will be appearing at Unite In Worship in Toronto. Information about the event can be found in the YMZ Concert listings. Complete tour information is available at www.robinmark.com.
In addition to the Year of Grace CD, there will be CD Trax, a songbook and CD-ROM songbook. Preview several tracks from the album on Mark’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageChristy Nockels’ “Life Light Up” Debuts On SoundScan Chart Top 10 And Sparks Critical Acclaim
Publish Date: Jun 11, 2009
[L-R]: Air1 Morning Show co-hosts Kelli Caldwell and Scott Smith, Christy Nockels, Kristian Stanfill and Nathan Nockels [Click image to enlarge]
Formerly known as the female half of the popular duo Watermark, Christy Nockels solo debut with sixstepsrecord’s Life Light Up has made a top ten debut on the CCM Christian SoundScan charts, top 5 debut on the SoundScan digital album chart, and sparked critical acclaim with media nationwide, as seen in the reviews below:
ChristianityToday.com
CCMMagazine.com
SoulAudio.com
During street week, the sixstepsrecords worship artist was busy on a radio promo tour visiting Sacramento and Nockels hometown of Tulsa, where over 600 fans showed up on the riverfront to support her. In Sacramento, Nockels, along with labelmates Chris Tomlin and Kristian Stanfill, spent time on the air at K-LOVE and Air1 supporting her debut.
Life Light Up is available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Find out more and check out this stellar release on Nockel’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageEveryday Sunday And Glenn Packiam Featured On HearItFirst.ca
Publish Date: Jun 11, 2009
This week’s premieres include pop-rock outfit from Ohio and a member of the Desperation Band.
Following its hit-filled Inpop Records debut, which produced Radio & Records’ 2007 Rock Song of the Year (Wake Up! Wake Up!) as well as two No. 1 radio singles, Ohio-based Everyday Sunday returns with an all-new offering, Best Night Of Our Lives.
Produced by Mark Lee Townsend (Relient K, Jennifer Knapp, O.C. Supertones) and mixed by JR McNeely (Paramore, Jeremy Camp, tobyMac), the project finds Everyday Sunday exploring a more aggressive rock approach with booming sounds, high-energy vocals and bold lyrics.
The disc includes the title track “Best Night Of Our Lives” about life-long friendship, “Breathing For Me”, an anthem of surrender, the passionate plea “Where I Ended”, and acoustic song, “Here With Me”, among others.
A festival favourite and Acquire The Fire touring artist, Everyday Sunday will encourage fans to rock across the nation this summer.
New from Desperation Band’s Glenn Packiam comes his solo debut album Rumors And Revelations featuring a collection of fresh new worship songs and well-loved favourites.
The songwriter of top CCLI songs such as “My Savior Lives”, “Your Name” and “Everyone”, Glenn is also an accomplished author. His latest book, Secondhand Jesus… Trading Rumors Of God For A Firsthand Faith will release simultaneously with this new album.
With songs that compliment various chapters in the book, Rumors And Revelations will challenge you to crush mistakenly held rumors about God and enter into an authentic experience of Christ’s power first-hand.
Specially priced at $12.99, Best Night Of Our Lives will be arriving at your local Canadian Christian retailer this Tuesday, June 16th while Rumors And Revelations will be available on Tuesday, June 23rd. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.
« Return to Previous PageEveryday Sunday “Best Night Of Our Lives” Song Stories
Publish Date: Jun 11, 2009
Everyday Sunday’s lastest project, Best Night Of Our Lives, will be available at Canadian Christian retailer this coming Tuesday. Here are the stories behind the songs as told by lead vocalist Trey Pearson.
Best Night Of Our Lives
“Best Night of Our Lives” is a fun song about having a good time. More specifically, though, it’s about all my friends back home and, in particular, one of my best friends who moved away. It’s a song that has to do with everyone’s lives and change and moving on. Whether it is someone moving to another city, graduation, or a new phase in life, we need each other, and we should make the most of what God gives us.
Under Your Thumb
This song is about someone who wants to blame all their problems in life on somebody else. It’s about taking responsibility for one’s decisions. God has given each of us a choice how we are going to live…whether we live for him and trust that His way is best for us, or choose to do it our own way. He’s given us all free will.
Lies and Fear Go Hand In Hand
I started writing this song after seeing some of my peers trying hard to be something they are not. They compromise everything they stand for and believe in to try and fit in. It’s difficult to watch because I care so much about these people and don’t want to see them go through it.
Breathing For Me
“Breathing For Me” is about letting go and having faith when you know you can’t do everything yourself. It’s about turning from where you’ve messed up and letting God take control of your life even when you don’t know all the answers.
Where I Ended
This song is about seeing God come through, blessing us, and changing our lives when we don’t deserve it. Everything we have has nothing to do with us or what we’ve done, but God choosing to save us in spite of all our shortcomings.
Figure It Out
This is the first real love song I’ve written. I started writing it for my fiancé after we got engaged, and the first time I played it for her was at our wedding. We recorded it shortly after for this album.
Pity The Man Who Falls and Has No One To Help Him Up
The name of this song comes from the book of Ecclesiastes in the Old Testament. It’s about the importance of friendship and how much we need each other to get through life. I believe with all my heart that God put us on this journey to sharpen each other and to help each other through it.
Come Around
The inspiration behind this song is pretty sensitive. I wrote it about a younger guy from my home church who lost his father as a teenager. I cannot begin to imagine how tough that is or what that feels like. I just wanted him to know how much God loves him, and how I, and so many people, care about him, and that we’re here for him.
Here With Me
I was inspired to write this song while backpacking with a bunch of friends down in Red River Gorge (in the Appalachian Mountains). One night we were reading out of Job 38 about how Job’s life was being destroyed all around him. Job wasn’t angry with God, but he questioned God why it was all happening, and God, in turn, asked Job why he would ever question Him. It just made me think about how huge God is and how sometimes we just need to let go and trust Him.
In The End
This song is about repentance and how much sin destroys our lives. When you realize how much God’s done for you, and you believe in Him as your Savior, you can’t keep living in all that junk. We realize how much more God wants for us, and we give it all up to God.
Check out the album and find out more about the band on their YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageGMA’s Immerse Talent Competition To Offer Great Prizes
Publish Date: Jun 11, 2009
American Idol® winner Kris Allen is not the only new artist going to Disney World. Later this summer, Walt Disney World will award a Disney Best of Show winner at the Gospel Music Association’s Immerse, the Christian music industry’s premier training experience and talent competition, sending the winner to Orlando to perform at the park’s annual “Night of Joy” concert in September.
Another aspiring artist will score a development deal with rising independent and Word-distributed label Centricity Records; a missions-minded artist will find themselves on a mission trip with Compassion International and a songwriter who best captures the Scripture in music will be honoured by the American Bible Society.
These are the highlights of the prizes to be handed out at Immerse as a part of the talent competition held in Nashville July 29th to August 2nd. The first step to winning the valuable prizes is registering for the artist and song-writing competitions by the June 30 deadline. All the detailed information Immerse is available at http://www.experienceimmerse.com Follow GMA’s Immerse on Twitter at http://twitter.com/GMAimmerse.
Christian artists, songwriters, worship leaders, music business professionals and those that want to be someday will gather at Immerse, a four-day event during which registrants will train with the industry’s most influential professionals, leading artists and songwriters, connect with top music insiders and others who share a passion for God and music; compete in Christian music’s official talent competition and enjoy exclusive music opportunities that only Nashville can offer, including the valuable prize packages.
The sponsor prizes are exclusive to GMA’s Immerse and give winners unique opportunities to move their careers forward in the areas of performing, recording and serving. The key prizes are:
The talent competitions are one of the highlights of Immerse.The Immerse Artist of 2009 National Competition is the Christian music industry’s official talent competition for unsigned acts. At the National Competition which is inclusive of all musical styles and genres of Christian music, Immerse contestants will be judged by Nashville music executives and popular Christian music artists as they compete for the grand prize titles for Solo 2009, Group 2009 and Band 2009.
The Immerse Song of 2009 National Competition awards grand prize titles, including Song of 2009, and the ABS Scripture Song of 2009. Songs of all musical styles and genres with Christian lyrical content are accepted in the competition and are judged based upon the excellence of song-writing skills within the musical style. The overall song categories are divided by class based upon level of song-writing experience and are given for Amateur, Semi-Pro and Professional Non-Artist classes. The deadline to compete in either the Song or Artist competitions is June 30.
In addition to competitions and prizes, at the heart of Immerse are the unparalleled opportunities to attend seminars taught by artists and other industry professionals, which cover everything from getting signed by a label to performance techniques to tools for song-writing. Aspiring songwriters and artists can also have their song or demo tapes professionally critiqued. Topics will cover marketing, promotion, radio, A&R, management, publishing, PR, legal and more. The classes will also focus on the roles of an artist/songwriter’s team for those who are interested in management, booking, promotion and more. In addition to the classes and competitions, Immerse takes full advantage of its location in Music City with many opportunities to hear music and hear from the artists creating it, along with a field trip through Music Row.
Artists including Michael W. Smith, Natalie Grant, Pillar, Aaron Shust, Chris Sligh, Melinda Doolittle, Phil Stacey, Martha Munizzi and Travis Cottrell will all perform and/or teach at Immerse. Professionals such as Mitchell Solarek (manager/Natalie Grant), Laurie Anderson (manager/TobyMac), Brad O’Donnell (A&R, EMI CMG), Chris Blaney (booking agent, Third Coast Artists Agency), Leigh Holt (VP of Branding & Merchandising, Word Records) and author David Nasser are confirmed to participate in GMA’s Immerse. More artists and professionals will continue to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
About GMA:
Founded in 1964, the Gospel Music Association serves as the face and voice for the gospel/Christian music community and is dedicated to exposing, promoting and celebrating the gospel through music of all styles including pop, rock, praise & worship, black gospel, R&B, hip hop, southern gospel, country, and more. The GMA community consists of more than 3,000 members including agents, artists, church leaders, managers, promoters, radio personnel, record company executives, retailers, songwriters and other industry visionaries. The GMA produces the GMA Dove Awards, GMA Music Week and the GMA Academy. For more information, please visit www.gospelmusic.org.
« Return to Previous Page“Don Moen & Friends” Worship Show Launches In Over 150 Markets
Publish Date: Jun 10, 2009
“Don Moen & Friends”, the new syndicated three hour Sunday morning drive time radio show hosted by Platinum®-selling recording artist, songwriter and worship leader Don Moen, launched this past weekend in over 150 U.S. markets, plus internationally in over 20 nations.
The program features new and classic worship music, interviews with leading musical artists, pastors and Christian leaders, and noted personalities, as well as testimonies of how God is working around the globe. This program’s core themes are hope, comfort and encouragement – themes which embody what Don Moen is all about in his ministry, whether on stage or off.
The first show featured encouraging stories of faith by people such as Bart Millard of MercyMe who talked about his relationship with his father, and “The Today Show” hostess Kathie Lee Gifford who shared the story of finding a Bible verse on her son’s Facebook page. In the featured segment “God Will Make a Way”, Moen told of his personal challenges in finding words to comfort a family member in a time of tragedy.
The successful launch was greeted by a chorus of glowing comments from Christian broadcasters:
“I am all for the show. It is something that we (Christian Radio) haven’t been able to capture in ‘worship shows’ before. It combines the encouragement, the stories, and the power that gives worship its life to many of us. By using real people, real stories, and songs that we associate with worship- I think people will feel very comfortable in the arms of God with their ‘worship family.’... We all identify somewhere, and the stories are compelling enough that it keeps you interested, even if your circumstances aren’t near the same. That’s what we long for. Connectivity – with each other – with God.”
Chalmer Harper, PD of 88.3 The Wind, Springfield, Missouri
“In a time where we get several prayer requests a week for people who are losing their homes, or have lost a job, we feel so good about being about to provide WGTS 91.9 listeners with something of true lasting value – God’s hope.”
Becky Alignay, PD of WGTS, Washington, DC
“Hope, comfort and encouragement is what KTIS/Minneapolis is all about, so adding Don Moen & Friends was the easiest decision I have made in a long time.”
Jason Sharpe, PD of KTIS, Minneapolis, Minnesota
“The first time Don Moen ‘stepped up to the plate’ in KSGN’s weekend programming line up he hit a grand slam! After the first broadcast we received enthusiastic response from listeners like ‘Don Moen and Friends was a delight’ and ‘I listened to Don Moen this weekend and I loved the worship music.’ The commentary was so encouraging. When we’re serving our audience well, that’s a good thing. And when Don does all the work and makes it so simple that’s even better! Looking forward to next weekend …and many more to come.”
Dawn Hibbard, GM of KSGN, Riverside, California
For more information about Don Moen, visit his YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageNew Season Of Gospel Dream Premieres June 24th On GMC
Publish Date: Jun 10, 2009
Gospel Music Channel announced its line-up of celebrity judges and hosts for the fourth season of the network’s popular American Idol®-style talent search series Gospel Dream, to be seen Wednesday nights this summer at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT beginning on June 24th.
The judges who will give one lucky person the chance to live their ‘Gospel Dream’ will be Michelle Williams from the GRAMMY®-winning group Destiny’s Child; one of Gospel music’s most prolific talents, Stellar Award winner J. Moss; and one of the music industry’s most respected executives, Mitchell Solarek. Kimberly Locke, the first American Idol® alumna to debut at #1 on the Billboard charts with a non-Idol single, will serve as co-host with Mike Kasem (MTV’s Top 20 Video Countdown and American Top 10) In addition, two major musical artists will serve as surprise coaches during the season. The theme for the show’s fourth season: The Greatest Inspirational Songs of All Time.
Gospel Dream talent scouts combed the country this spring, auditioned thousands and decided upon the 37 contestants who will have an once-in-a-lifetime chance to pursue their dream of a musical career and do so in front of a national television audience in the fourth season of Gospel Dream. Solo artists between 16-40 years of age, from all genres of Gospel/Christian music styles, including traditional, rock, pop, country and soul will compete. Ten finalists, and ultimately one winner, will be chosen. The winning artist will receive record and music video exposure, among other prizes.
Michelle Williams (Talent Judge)
From the very title of her latest album project, Unexpected, Michelle Williams describes the career she’s enjoyed – first as part of the groundbreaking trio Destiny’s Child with Beyoncé Knowles and Kelly Rowland who rocked the music world globally early in this new millennium with millions of unit sales of their music, multiple Grammys® and a string of #1 records, More recently, Williams became a Grammy® winning artist in her own right with the success of her first solo Gospel album Heart To Yours, which became the best selling Gospel album of 2002.
J. Moss (Talent Judge)
Moss is not only an accomplished artist, he is also part of one of music’s hottest production companies, the three-man team known as PAJAM. He has been the co-writer and/or producer behind some of the biggest artists in both Gospel and secular music for the better part of the last decade, including The Clark Sisters, Hezekiah Walker, N’SYNC, Michelle Williams, Trin-i-tee 5:7, Dru Hill, Boyz II Men and Kelly Price.
Mitchell Solarek (Talent Judge)
Solarek is the founder of Maximum Artist Management, a multi-faceted creative complex that represents a diverse roster of major label artists, songwriters, and producers in a broad genre that includes, pop, rock, country and Christian music clients – among them current Top Female Artist in contemporary Christian music, Natalie Grant.
Kimberly Locke (Co-Host)
Locke sets a standard for the true definition of “versatile artist”. Launching to instant national stardom from the 2003 season of American Idol®, she has since established her remarkable career as a successful singer, songwriter, model, TV personality, and entrepreneur. She has topped Billboard in both AC and Hot Dance formats with hits such as “Change”, “Fall”, and “Band of Gold”.
Mike Kasem (Co-Host)
Hosting comes naturally for Mike Kasem, who first came to win a large fan following among teens in the late 90’s as the host of MTV’s Top 20 Video Countdown. The son of radio and music industry legend, Casey Kasem, Mike has also been heard nationally behind the microphone of both highly popular Casey Kasem weekly syndicated radio programs, American Top 10 and American Top 20.
The Gospel Dream series was created by Executive Producer Elvin Ross who is also the series’ executive producer and musical director. Gospel Music Channel is the fastest-growing network in television and can be seen in 45 million homes on various cable systems around the country, on DIRECTV on channel 338 and on Verizon FiOS on channel 224.
« Return to Previous PageSuperchick Helps To “Make A Wish” Come True For One Special Fan
Publish Date: Jun 10, 2009
Superchick surprises young fan Stephanie Vorm, who suffers from aplastic anemia, at the Nashville Zoo on Saturday, May 30th.
[Click image to enlarge]
The band met with Stephanie and her family for a day of fun arranged by the “Make-A-Wish Foundation”, an organization that helps grant wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions. The eight year-old’s dream was to spend a day with her favourite band, Superchick, whose music played a significant role in getting her through the initial diagnosis and treatment of her illness. Additionally, Superchick was honoured to join Stephanie’s wish granters, Tracy Bossman and Susie Remelius, in presenting Stephanie with the news that her Wish: To Go to Hawaii to Swim with the Dolphins would soon be a reality.
“It was humbling to be part of someone’s wish, and our day with the family was so special for us,” says Superchick’s Tricia Brock. “It’s encouraging to know that there are organizations like Make-A-Wish Foundation making a difference in the world one person at a time. Thanks to Make-A-Wish Foundation for involving us – it was a day we won’t soon forget.”
To learn more about the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Middle Tennessee, visit www.midtnwishes.org.
« Return to Previous PageMatthew West On “Hour Of Power” This Sunday
Publish Date: Jun 10, 2009
[Click image to enlarge]
Matthew West greets Dr. Robert H. Schuller, founding pastor of Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, on Sunday, May 31st, before appearing on “Hour of Power”, the church’s weekly, hour-long service watched by an estimated 20 million viewers. West played three songs during the program, including his hit “The Motions” which is currently No. 1 on the Radio & Records AC Monitored chart a ninth consecutive week. The program will air this Sunday, June 14th. Visit www.crystalcathedral.org/hour_of_power/tvlisting/index.php for worldwide air times.
« Return to Previous PageLive Video Chat With Jonny Diaz This Thursday Night
Publish Date: Jun 10, 2009
Do you want to know more about Jonny Diaz? Are you curious to know what his favourite song is? What about his favourite food, or how he came up with the idea to write his hit song “More Beautiful You”? And why did he choose to pursue music over baseball, anyway?
To find out these answers, to ask a question yourself, and to even catch Jonny playing some of his songs live, join Jonny Diaz on a live video chat this Thursday, June 11th at 7:00 p.m. CDT. All you have to do is just log onto www.JonnyDiaz.com. Don’t miss out on this fun night!
More Beautiful You is now available at Christian retailers across Canada. Check out the album and the story behind it on Diaz’s YMZ artist page. Also, catch the music video, behind the scenes video, and teaching lesson for “More Beautiful You” in the YMZ Media section.
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Jonny Diaz “More Beautiful You” Video Impacts Fans Profoundly
Jonny Diaz’s “More Beautiful You” Hits Shelves This Week And Is Already A Top 10 Hit
Jonny Diaz Already Generating Huge Buzz At Radio With “More Beautiful You”
« Return to Previous PageIsrael Houghton’s “The Power of One” Worship Leader Edition” Resource Available Today
Publish Date: Jun 09, 2009
Integrity Music announces the release of The Power Of One: Worship Leader Edition, a new product for worship leaders and musicians that features music, video and a variety of resource materials from GRAMMY®, Stellar and Dove Award winning worship artist Israel Houghton.
“This is an incredible resource for churches, small groups… anyone who wants to translate Israel’s songs into a small to medium worship setting,” said Jay King, Vice President of Artist Development/A&R. “It’s a ‘must have’.”
The new, three disc Worship Leader Edition of Houghton’s critically-acclaimed project features the original, full album for The Power of One plus a DVD and a resource-packed, enhanced CD that includes acoustic versions of 11 songs from the original album.
The DVD contains a live performance of acoustic versions of songs from the album. The intimate setting features Houghton on lead vocals/guitar/piano backed by Aaron Lindsey on piano, Akil Thompson on bass and Javier Solis on percussion. In addition, the DVD contains song stories and guitar instructional tutorials hosted by Houghton.
The Worship Leader Edition enhanced CD contains matching, acoustic audio from the DVD plus sheet music, chord charts and lyric text files for all songs.
To help promote this new resource, Integrity is offering free copies of the Worship Leader Edition to worship leaders through a Twitter contest. Additional details are available at twitter.com/integritymusic.
Israel Houghton is a multi-award winning, Gold® selling artist and a worship leader at Houston’s Lakewood Church. He has written or co-written 11 CCLI Top 500 songs, served as worship leader at Hillsong conferences, Franklin Graham crusades and is a featured CompassionArt songwriter and artist. Houghton also ministers through concerts in the U.S. and around the world.
The Power Of One Worship Leader Resource Edition is available at Canadian Christian retailers today. For more information on Resource Discs and the CD, please visit his YMZ artist page.
CD-ROM System Requirements
The CD-ROM will run on computers based on Mac OS X or Windows XP or later. The menu requires an Internet browser with the Adobe Flash Player 8.x or later installed. For best results, Internet Explorer 6.x or later (for Windows machines), and Safari 2.x or later (for Mac OS X machines) is recommended.
« Return to Previous PageNew Music Tuesday Fresh Releases
Publish Date: Jun 09, 2009
Here are today’s new releases:
CDs
DVDs
These titles are now available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the June New Music Tuesday poster. Also, visit the YMZ Music section to check out other upcoming releases.
« Return to Previous PageDon Poythress To Bow “Wash Away” June 23rd
Publish Date: Jun 08, 2009
Award-winning singer/songwriter and worship leader Don Poythress is slated to bow his Integrity Music debut, Wash Away, June 23rd. Produced by Paul Mills, the contemporary country worship set was recorded live at Nashville’s famed Christ Church and features guest appearances from Ricky Skaggs and Paul Baloche.
Poythress co-wrote 10 of the project’s 12 selections. Highlights of Wash Away include the title-cut “Brand New Day” (with Baloche), “The Faithful Love of Jesus” (with Skaggs), “Call Upon Your Name (Sing of Your Love)”, and “I Will Bless The Lord At All Times”, among other songs. The album concludes with “Joseph”, a Christmas selection Poythress co-penned with Tony Wood.
“The songs for Wash Away weren’t just written in sessions, they were written from my experiences during the past year and come from a very personal place,” said Poythress. “I showed up to a session to write a country song with another writer. I told him what I was going through and we started talking about it and spontaneously began writing. I think I cried the entire time we wrote ‘I Will Bless The Lord At All Times’. I look over the past year and I call that my life song for that period of time.”
“Country music has always captivated me, but the first music I remember learning were worship songs that my mom taught me,” Poythress adds. “I knew when I was young that I was called to play and sing country music.”
Poythress serves as worship leader at Abundant Life Church near Nashville and is an award-winning and sought-after songwriter on Music Row. He has penned selections for Tim McGraw, Clint Black and Travis Tritt, among others. Last year, Poythress received an ASCAP honour for the hit song “Things That Never Cross A Man’s Mind”, which was recorded by Kellie Pickler.
Wash Away will be available as a CD, CD Trax, a songbook and a CD-ROM Digital Songbook. Preview part of the album on Poythress’ YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageJoy Whitlock Headlines Acoustic Testify Tour
Publish Date: Jun 08, 2009
New artist Joy Whitlock is headlining the Testify tour as it kicks off June 28th at Cornerstone Festival in Bushnell, IL. The acoustic tour will also introduce audiences to indie duo Carolina Story who are also launching a “Spare Change” campaign to help in sending aide to needy children in Africa. For tour dates please see below.
Whitlock received raving reviews for debut album God And A Girl, which released last fall on INO/Ardent Records. Since then, she has been busy writing music and entertaining audiences across the country. Formerly having toured with mentor Todd Agnew, Whitlock is ready to head back on the road where she will be performing songs from her debut that reveal the struggles she has encountered and how she conquered them through Christ. Carolina Story is comprised of husband and wife duo Emily and Ben Roberts. The Memphis-based band just released their debut album.
Check out God And A Girl, one of the most heartfelt and honest album of 2008 on Whitlock’s YMZ artist page. The album is specially priced at $14.99 at Christian retailers across Canada.
Testify Tour Dates (dates subject to change)
06/28/09 Bushnell, IL @ Cornerstone Festival (The Anchor Stage)
06/29/09 Bushnell, IL @ Cornerstone Festival (Sean Michels Stage)
07/01/09 Bushnell, IL @ Cornerstone Festival (Sean Michels Stage)
07/02/09 Kansas City, MO @ Gashland Presbyterian Church
O7/03/09 Lawton, OK @ TBA
07/04/09 Lawton, OK @ I Love America Celebration (Elmer Thomas Park)
07/05/09 Lennox, SD @ Lennox City Park
07/08/09 Little Rock, AR @ Juanita’s
07/09/09 Pine Bluff, AR @ TBA
07/12/09 Bryant, AR Brand @ New Church
07/15/09 Nashville, TN @ The Anchor Fellowship
07/16/09 Murfreesboro, TN @ World Outreach Church
07/17/09 Kingston Springs, TN @ Red Tree Coffee
07/18/09 Jackson, TN Town @ Central Associated Building
08/01/09 Macon, GA @ The 567 Café
08/02/09 Athens, GA @ TBA
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« Return to Previous PageMat Kearney “City Of Black & White” Song Stories, Part IV
Publish Date: Jun 08, 2009
Go behind the scenes with Mat Kearney as he talks about the making of his forthcoming May 19th release, City Of Black & White. Click here for the final part of this four-week series.
Check out audio samples for all the songs on City Of Black & White and the story behind it at the Kearney’s YMZ artist page. The album is now at available your local Canadian Christian retailer.
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Mat Kearney “City Of Black & White” Song Stories, Part III
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« Return to Previous PagePhillips, Craig & Dean “Revelation Song” Story Behind The Song Now Online
Publish Date: Jun 08, 2009
A crumbling economy, wars without end, new health risks, security threats, and more. The media gives us a constant stream of reasons to be afraid. But what if God’s people shined a light of eternal hope right into the face of this world’s temporary circumstances? That’s the compelling idea behind Fearless, the tenth studio album from one of today’s most respected Christian vocal groups, Phillips, Craig & Dean.
Uniquely gifted and positioned in their dual roles as musicians and full-time senior pastors in three different U.S. cities, Randy Phillips, Shawn Craig and Dan Dean know well the current struggles people face and are boldly taking the opportunity to respond to them in life and song. Produced by Bernie Herms, Fearless features instantly sing-able melodies, including the current radio hit and worship classic-in-the making “Revelation Song”.
Check out the video story behind the song in the YMZ Media section. Fearless will be available at your local Canadian Christian retailer on August 4th.
« Return to Previous PageChristian Heritage Day: Hillsong United
Publish Date: Jun 07, 2009
On June 6th, about 8,000 fans packed Molson Amphitheatre at Ontario Place for Christian Heritage Day’s evening concert featuring Bluetree and Hillsong United. The day long event also featured Group 1 Crew, This Beautiful Republic, Carried Away, Finochio, Hello Kelly, and Turn Off The Stars.
Here are some images of Hillsong United. Click on each image to enlarge.
« Return to Previous PageChristian Heritage Day: Bluetree
Publish Date: Jun 07, 2009
On June 6th, about 8,000 fans packed Molson Amphitheatre at Ontario Place for Christian Heritage Day’s evening concert featuring Bluetree and Hillsong United. The day long event also featured Group 1 Crew, This Beautiful Republic, Carried Away, Finochio, Hello Kelly, and Turn Off The Stars.
Here are some images of Bluetree. Click on each image to enlarge.
« Return to Previous PageCarried Away And Jade Harrell Featured On HearItFirst.ca
Publish Date: Jun 05, 2009
This week’s premieres include a Canadian trio’s thrid offering and a funky cool new artist on GRITS’ record label.
Multiple GMA Canada Covenant Award winning Carried Away returns with a new sound and a new member. Tyler Seidenberg joined the group in the summer of 2008 and has been touring extensively across Canada and the United States adding a new dimension to the group’s trademark pop-harmony sound.
Carried Away’s debut album was the biggest selling new artist of the year when it released and the group has continued to build a solid following across the country. Their new album No Compromise sees the trio continue to mature and explore new musical territory.
Carried Away has opened for Casting Crowns, Avalon and many others and will once again zig-zag across Canada throughout 2009 in support of the new album.
Nashville based label RevolutionArt moves forward with its mission to “usher in the next generation of artist” with its latest signing, 19 year-old singing sensation Jade Harrell.
The soulful singer from Jacksonville, FL began her solo career at age five, singing regularly for her home church. Growing up with a love of all genres of music, Jade’s influences include Brandy, Trin-i-Tee 5:7, and Michael Jackson. This is evident on her eclectic debut album, Class Reject.
The album’s funk and techno elements combine with danceable melodies to make Class Reject a must-have for anyone’s summer fun music collection.
Guest artists appearing on the album include Coffee and Bonafide from GRITS, Ayiesha Woods and Stefan The Scientist.
A refreshing new voice on the emerging Christian music scene, Jade Harrell is definitely one to watch.
Specially priced at $12.99, Class Reject is now available. No Compromise will specially priced at $14.99 AND will have the Staff Pick: No Risk Music Guarantee sticker. If for any reason you do not like this CD, you may exchange it for another title priced at $19.99 or less. It will be arriving at your local Canadian Christian retailer this Tuesday, June 9th. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.
« Return to Previous PageJade Harrell “Class Reject” Song Stories
Publish Date: Jun 05, 2009
Jade Harrell’s debut release Class Reject arrived at Canadian Christian retailers this week. It is a mix of funk and techno elements with danceable melodies to make Class Reject a must-have for anyone’s summer fun music collection (we are tapping our feet here).
Into the Music (J. Harrell, M. Taylor, S. Ross, T. Carter)
Music is something that surrounds me constantly. It is one of the most consistent things in my life, and on occasion, I have
to allow myself to get lost in it!
Me and My Radio (J. Harrell, M. Taylor, E. Johnson)
The world makes us feel that in order to have a good time, we have to pop bottles all night and tear up the clubs. I have an
awesome time all by myself, and I don’t need a club to have fun.
Who You Are (M. Henderson, J. Harrell, A. Woods)
Growing pains sometimes cause us to lose ourselves and forget who we are. But it’s a beautiful thing when you finally
discover who you are.
The UnSeen (J. Harrell, M. Taylor, E. Johnson)
The grass may seem greener on the other side, but it’s not worth your soul to compromise who you are for a taste of the
world.
Say Goodbye (J. Harrell, M. Henderson)
True love isn’t hurtful and lustful. If someone can’t give you more than that, you have to say goodbye and move on.
Rain (M. Henderson, S. Moss, J. Harrell)
Even in the midst of your most painful storm, God has a plan for you and wants to show himself strong in your life. Our
lives are in His hands, we have to let go and trust Him.
Don’t Leave (M. Henderson, J. Harrell)
I am nothing without God. If He ever took His love away, I’d be begging and pleading for Him to give it back!
You and I (M. Henderson, J. Harrell)
This is a fun flirty song expressing the romantic feelings I have towards someone special.
Addicted (J. Harrell, M. Taylor, S. Ross, S. Jones)
In this song, I express how I’m addicted to God’s love using musical terms to describe my addiction.
Broken (J. Harrell, M. Henderson, H. Miller)
This song was an expression of how I felt during a time in which situations and circumstances caused me to feel damaged
and alone inside. It is a cry to God for help.
What A Fool Believes (Michael McDonald/Kenny Loggins)
A remake of the Doobie Brothers’ “What A Fool Believes”, it tells a story of a man who can’t forget about a woman from
his past.
King of My Heart (L. Brantley, R. Benjamin, J. Harrell)
We’ll never find a love like Jesus Christ. His love in unconditional, and that’s why we worship Him.
Only Human (J. Harrell, M. Henderson)
“Only Human” is about not wanting what the world has to offer because it changes constantly. To be human means that we
make mistakes, but we are made perfect through Jesus Christ.
Class Reject is featured on HearItFirst.ca together with Carried Away, chek out this funky fresh CD and other recent releases.
« Return to Previous PageMusic Row Toasts Chris Sligh For Rascal Flatts’ 10th Chart-Topper “Here Comes Goodbye”
Publish Date: Jun 05, 2009
An enthusiastic crowd invaded Cabana in Nashville on Tuesday, June 2nd to celebrate Rascal Flatts’ chart-topper, “Here Comes Goodbye”. Co-written by Chris Sligh and Clint Lagerberg, the song helped make the trio’s latest album, Unstoppable, the top-selling album in the country, with more than 350,000 copies sold in the first week alone.
Pictured are (l-r): Rascal Flatts’ Joe Don Rooney and Jay DeMarcus; Brentwood Benson Music Publishing’s Dale Mathews; co-writer Chris Sligh; Brentwood Benson Music Publishing’s Stacey Willbur; Rascal Flatts’ Gary LeVox; BMI’s Clay Bradley and Beth Mason [Photo by Kay Williams. Click image to enlarge]
Produced by Dann Huff, “Here Comes Goodbye” is the first no. 1 for both Sligh and Lagerberg, who were also nominated for a GMA Dove Award for Song of the Year this year with Sligh’s hit single “Empty Me”. Sligh first turned heads as a contestant in the sixth season of American Idol®, and then became one of the best-selling new artists in the industry, also recently being nominated for a Dove Award for New Artist of the Year.
Sligh’s debut CD, Running Back To You, became one of the best-selling Christian album on iTunes® it’s first week in 2008. The project also wowed critics from USA Today to CCMmagazine.com. It also had the highest debut on Christian SoundScan in it’s first week. Named as one of Entertainment Weekly’s “Best Idol® Auditions Ever” (video footage http://www.ew.com/ew/gallery/0,,20007164_20008532_20174767,00.html” target=”_blank”>here), Sligh auditioned for American Idol® more or less on a whim. To his surprise, his performance swept him onto a fast track to the final rounds. His willingness to take chances, his ironic wit, and his startlingly powerful vocals embedded him into the popular imagination, while his distinctive blend of talent, humour, confidence, and unpredictability led to an exchange with Simon Cowell that delighted the other judges, host Ryan Seacrest, and much of America. An official American Idol® commentator for Entertainment Weekly online during season seven, Sligh operated on a three-week rotating schedule with two other commentators (Jon Peter Lewis and Nadia Turner), and wrote funny and informative commentaries through the lens of his experiences on American Idol®.
For more information on Sligh, please visit his YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageJason Crabb To Make Multiple Appearances At 2009 CMA Music Fest
Publish Date: Jun 05, 2009
Award-winning Spring Hill recording artist Jason Crabb is set to make multiple appearances at the 2009 CMA Music Fest – the ultimate country music fan experience – to be held in Music City June 11th 14th. Crabb’s CMA Music Fest activities will be highlighted by a performance on “Sunday Mornin’ Country” at the Grand Ole Opry House Sunday, June 14th at 2:30 p.m. Hosted by country and pop icon Brenda Lee, “Sunday Mornin’ Country” will also feature performances from GRAMMY® Award winner Linda Davis, Dove Award-winning Point of Grace, and such legendary country performers as Bill Anderson, The Whites, Charlie McCoy and Jean Shepard.
Helping welcome fans to CMA Music Fest, Crabb will be performing at the Music City Visitors Information Center inside the Sommet Center Wednesday, June 10th at 2:00 p.m. The acoustic set will feature selections from Crabb’s highly anticipated solo debut releasing June 30th. The free performance is open to the public. Earlier that day, Crabb will also be a guest on Nashville’s FOX 17 “Tennessee Mornings” to promote “Sunday Mornin’ Country”.
Additionally, CMA Music Fest attendees will have an opportunity to meet Crabb on Thursday, June 11 at 10 am when he signs autographs at the “Sunday Mornin’ Country” booth in the Greased Lightning™ Fan Fair™ Hall. Located in the Nashville Convention Center, the Greased Lightning™ Fan Fair™ Hall will feature appearances by such country stars as Taylor Swift, Reba McEntire and Carrie Underwood throughout the event.
Presented annually by the Country Music Association, CMA Music Fest has grown to attract nearly 200,000 fans from around the world. The four-day celebration features artist/fan interaction, autograph signings, photo opportunities, more than 100 hours of concerts, family activities and more. For tickets to “Sunday Mornin’ Country,” visit www.ticketmaster.com or www.opry.com.
Jason Crabb is best-known as the powerhouse lead vocalist for the 10-time Dove Award winning and GRAMMY® Award nominated breakout Southern Gospel group The Crabb Family. Crabb’s self-titled solo debut, produced by Norro Wilson and Tommy Sims, releases June 30th on Spring Hill Music.
Preview several tracks from the album on Crabb’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageMikeschair’s Self-Titled Debut Releases July 14th
Publish Date: Jun 04, 2009
According to their bio, the sound of Mikeschair demands attention. It also claims that their upcoming self-titled debut, bowing July 14th on Curb Records, sets out to entertain as well as inspire those who listen. If you have already heard their new hit radio single, “Can’t Take Away”, you’d agree. If you haven’t heard it yet, when you do, there’s no question you will be entertained and quickly inspired.
This is because the men of Mikeschair – Mike Grayson, Sam Tinnesz, Jesse Hale, Jon Haire – like to contend that their music inspires action to change the world through love. Hailing from Belmont University in Nashville, TN, this quartet’s blend of soulful rock guitars and bass grooves, violin and electronic textures tagged with catchy pop sing-along choruses, undoubtedly compels the listener to step up emotionally and spiritually.
Inquiring minds want to know, what’s in the name?
Yes, there really is a chair involved, and yes, it was Mike’s. “The ‘chair’ was the central gathering point where we got our start,” explains Sam, the band’s lead guitarist. As freshmen at Belmont, “All of us lived on the same floor of our dorm except for Mike. Since he was always hanging out with us on our floor, we decided to get him piece of furniture to make him feel a little more at home. The chair was his only piece of property on our floor.” Mike wrote his name on that chair in big letters and it soon became his place of inspiration for song-writing and creative flow. The band name “is a reminder of our humble beginnings and how far God has brought us,” explains Sam.
Mikeschair: The 411
Even though they grew up in different parts of the U.S. and met at Belmont, each member of Mikeschair has been inspired by music since they were children. Jon picked up the bass guitar in seventh grade, while Mike found his musical passion during his sixth grade year, eventually leading him to be a youth worship leader at his home church. Sam doesn’t remember when music wasn’t part of his life, and Jesse began training on classical violin at the age of four, thus honing his other musical skills showcased in Mikeschair such as keys, synthesizers, and programming.
After a successful performance at Belmont University’s Christian Music Showcase held during their freshmen year, the band cultivated their performing and song-writing skills and by the fall of their senior year, Mikeschair signed with Curb Records. Not long after obtaining their record deal, they each earned their degrees from the Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business at Belmont.
Mikeschair immediately plunged into full-time touring and song-writing, all preparation for their debut project out next month. Produced by the award-winning team of Jason Ingram and Rusty Varenkamp (Bebo Norman, Tenth Avenue North), with the exception of “Otherside” produced by Sean Neff, the result is notable and catchy songs that balance service, worship and entertainment. One such tune is the debut single, “Can’t Take Away,” quickly climbing up the charts and currently #7 at R&R’s CHR chart.
Consistently on the road, Mikeschair performs at a variety of churches, venues, festivals and youth camps. They have opened for acts such as Brandon Heath, Jeremy Camp, Jars of Clay, and MercyMe along the way.
mikestable
At every show, the group offers audiences to visit mikestable, a table dedicated to offering information for various causes, such as Food for the Hungry, IJM (International Justice Mission), Love 146 and more. It is their hope for people to be aware of what’s going on in the world in terms of need, to give them empowerment, yet also give options. “The music isn’t the full extent of our purpose,” Jesse explains. “We are committing our time, effort and platform to helping those in need – making ourselves available to be the hands and feet of Jesus. We’re presenting something that’s very precious to audiences and listeners. It’s the Gospel in action.”
In addition to their partnerships, it’s the band’s mission to invite everyone to bring a non-perishable food item to their shows, where every donated food item is then taken to local food banks and church outreach programs. This venture, which has actually been underway for a few years now, is continuing to grow as more items are donated at each concert.
“Our prayer is that people will leave our shows, not with a sense of how awesome the music is, but with a deeper sense of searching and begin asking questions that they weren’t asking when they showed up,” concludes Mike.
Tour Schedule [Dates are subject to change]
June 6-10: Roach, MO
June 17: Nashville, TN
June 19: Green Bay, WI
June 20: Gaylord, MI
June 21: Dayton, OH
June 25-28: Palmer, TX
June 27th: Dallas, TX
July 3: Huntsville, AL
July 6-9: Roach, MO
July 14: Tulsa, OK
July 23-26: Mandeville, LA
Sept. 18-19: Penn Yann, NY
Fall tour dates forthcoming.
For more information on Mikeschair, visit their YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageMatt Maher’s “Empty & Beautiful” Launches Into Space For Second Time
Publish Date: Jun 03, 2009
Canadian Singer/Songwriter/Worship Leader Matt Maher received an out-of-this-world honour when his album Empty & Beautiful (4/8/08) was a carry-on item for astronaut Mike Good on NASA Mission STS-125. Astronaut Good took Matt’s music for inspiration on his journey to the Hubble Space Telescope. Space shuttle Atlantis launched on Servicing Mission 4, the final astronaut visit to the Hubble Space Telescope May 11th and returned May 24th, using the 13 day mission to install new instruments, upgrade technology and prepare the telescope for many more years of cosmic exploration.
[Click image to enlarge]
“I wanted you to know that I was praying for you and your band while orbiting above God’s beautiful creation,” wrote Good in an e-mail to Maher after returning to Earth. “I flew the CD you gave me (Empty & Beautiful) back at Johnson Space Center and enjoyed listening to you guys on orbit on my iPod. It was awesome looking out into space and back at Earth while listening to your beautiful music – really inspiring.”
This mission marked the second time that Maher’s music visited the cosmos. In June 2008, astronaut Ron Garan orbited the earth on NASA Mission STS-124 with Empty & Beautiful.
For more information on Maher and his out of this world CD, visit his YMZ artist page.
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« Return to Previous PageiShine Live Doubles Attendance With Spring Tour
Publish Date: Jun 03, 2009
iShine Live has seen record growth in only their second season of touring drawing in crowds of over a thousand people a night. In the midst of this growth, iShine Live and founder Robert Beeson have announced that the tour is already planning their third season in September through November of 2009.
Mission Six performs in front of a packed house during a tour stop in Battle Creek, MI [Click image to enlarge]
The event has seen crowds of over 1,000 in markets such as Evansville, IN, Battle Creek, MI, Flint, MI and more. In Midland, MI. the venue had to turn away crowds due to already reaching full capacity with hundreds of tweens staying afterwards to meet the iShine Live artists. Below is an example of the feedback iShine Live has received while out on the road this spring.
“Thank you so much for bringing iShine to Flint, MI. My students, as well as those from around the Flint area will be talking about this for weeks… Thanks again for this awesome ministry and allowing us to partner with you.”
A middle school youth pastor from Flint
Due to this overwhelming response, the tour has also added dates in June with stops in New Mexico and Texas. An updated tour schedule is below.
“Its exciting to see the growth that has taken place and the families that have been reached through iShine Live this spring,” says Beeson. “We look forward to continuing this ministry in the fall.”
This spring tour features performances from The Rubyz, Mission Six, Jasmine, Logan Charles, Jamie-Grace and speaker and former Make-A-Wish child Paige Armstrong as well as special guest performances from teen actor Luke Benward. iShine Live has also received support from Make A Wish Foundation, World Vision and American Heritage Girls. TBN debuted “iShine KNECT” this month, an iCarly style show that features the iShine Live crew. The series features interview, fan questions and performances. “iShine KNECT” will air on TBN on Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. PDT and on Smile of a Child TV on Saturdays at 3:00 p.m. PDT.
For all things iShine Live, please visit www.iShineLive.com or to find out how you can take part in this ministry visit, www.iShineministries.com.
2009 Spring iShine Live Tour Dates
June 5th: Albuquerque, NM
June 7th: Plano, TX
June 8th: Plano, TX
June 9th: Sherman, TX
All dates subject to change, please visit www.iShineLive.com for most updated tour information.
Available at Christian retailers across Canada are new music from iShine including Luke Benward’s Let Your Love Out, Jasmine’s The Next Me and IShine Jamz Vol. 1 & 2. Check them out on their respective YMZ artist pages.
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iShine Partners With Christ In Youth To Meet Need In Tween Market
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« Return to Previous PageJonny Diaz “More Beautiful You” Video Impacts Fans Profoundly
Publish Date: Jun 02, 2009
The title cut from Jonny Diaz’s More Beautiful You, has been taking over the radio airwaves. Now catch the music video for this song in the YMZ Media section that has been impacting the lives of those who hear it.
The unique music video showcases how girls of all ages compare themselves to the “perfect” pictures of celebrities and models in magazines and on the internet. Seeing this video story unfold, through a mother and daughter being doted on by makeup artists and hair stylists, ends with the message that touched up photos and a lot of makeup don’t matter, that what matters most is to embrace who God made you to be.
As previously reported, not only is the industry buzzing about Diaz’s single but letters are pouring in daily from music fans from all over the country to share how much of an impact the song is to them personally. Since the premiere of the video, astounding positive feedback has been coming in from viewers, proving that the song’s message is truly making a phenomenal impact on fans of all ages. Below are just highlights from music listeners and video viewers alike:
The music video was directed by Carl Diebold (Switchfoot, Third Day, Skillet, Kutless, Building 429). For a behind the scenes of the making of the music video and the teaching lesson on how to play the song, visit the YMZ Media section. The television world premiere of the music video is this Friday, June 5th on the Spirit Network found on Sky Angel’s IPTV service
“More Beautiful You” is the first single from Jonny Diaz’s fourth CD, More Beautiful You, his first project with INO Records/Columbia Records, which released May 5th. The top 10 hit continues to climb the radio charts as well! The song is currently #6 on AC-Indicator’s R&R Charts, and at #15 for R&R’s AC-Monitored Chart.
More Beautiful You is now available at Christian retailers across Canada. Check out the album and the story behind it on Diaz’s YMZ artist page.
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« Return to Previous PageLanae’ Hale Makes Mainstream TV Debut
Publish Date: Jun 02, 2009
Following her successful street week, Lanae’ Hale, made her debut national mainstream TV appearance on WGN America’s Midday News, the #1 midday newscast in the country. Hale performed her current single that is the title track from her new CD, Back & Forth, which released May 19th. The song was also featured as download on WGN.com for the day of her appearance on Friday, May 29th.
[L-R]: Dina Bair, Co-host, WGN America Midday News and Lanae’ [Click image to enlarge]
Hale will be hitting the road this summer on Building 429’s World Vision Summer Fest ‘09. This is Hale’s first major tour that launches in Joplin, MO on June 2nd and ends in Lynchburg, VA on July 31st. Other artists featured on the tour are 33Miles and Kimber Rising.
Back & Forth features a $2 off coupon for first 30 days of release AND will have the Staff Pick: No Risk Music Guarantee sticker. If for any reason you do not like this CD, you may exchange it for another title priced at $19.99 or less.
For more information on Lanae Hale, please visit her YMZ artist page.
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« Return to Previous PageMat Kearney “City Of Black & White” Song Stories, Part III
Publish Date: Jun 02, 2009
Go behind the scenes with Mat Kearney as he talks about the making of his forthcoming May 19th release, City Of Black & White. Click here for part three of this four-week series.
Check out audio samples for all the songs on City Of Black & White and the story behind it at the Kearney’s YMZ artist page. The album is now at available your local Canadian Christian retailer.
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« Return to Previous PageDecyfer Down Thanks You For Your Support
Publish Date: Jun 02, 2009
As many of you know, the members of Decyfer Down have come across some life threatening battles in the last month, and with numerous inquiries about such, we thought we would let all of you know about such at the same time.
On April 21st, guitarist Chris Clonts and his wife Meghan welcomed Christopher Hayden Clonts into the world. Shortly after their son’s birth, Meghan became extremely ill and the doctors found she had a severe infection that caused her to be away from her new-born for days at a time. After three weeks in quarantine, Meghan was treated and released from the hospital and is now happy and healthy with her husband and son.
The day after Meghan was released from the hospital, Josh Oliver, drummer of Decyfer Down, and his wife Victoria received some devastating news. Victoria was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma cancer. Thankfully, the doctors caught it early enough so that it didn’t spread to any other parts of her body. The tumour is located between her lungs and heart and is the size of a softball. Due to the fragile location of the tumour, the doctors are unable to operate, so Victoria has started chemotherapy treatments for a period of 18 weeks. Making matters even more difficult they were denied health insurance coverage.
Throughout this time, the band has received an outpouring of letters and emails from fans who have expressed their sympathies and prayers for the band and their families.
“I am graciously thankful and humbled by the outpouring of love and support for my family and for the Decyfer Down family,” says Josh Oliver. “Please continue to keep us in prayer and we will keep you updated via the band’s MySpace and website.”
We ask that you please keep Josh and Victoria in your prayers, and if you, or your readers would like to know about how to donate or send gifts, you may do so by visiting www.victoriasvictory.org where you an also check on her progress.
« Return to Previous PageSidewalk Prophets To Release “These Simple Truths” On August 25th
Publish Date: Jun 02, 2009
New Fervent Records band Sidewalk Prophets will make their Christian retail industry debut on August 25th with the release of These Simple Truths.
Sidewalk Prophets performing during GMA Music Week in Nashville
Already touring more than 150 dates per year, the band has shared the stage with acts like MercyMe, Michael W. Smith, Jeremy Camp, Audio Adrenaline and others before signing with the Nashville label. Sidewalk Prophets initially made a name for themselves at Indiana’s Anderson University where frontmen and main songwriters Dave Frey and Ben McDonald met. The band was unwittingly submitted for a campus recording competition, won and later attracted the attention of music executives before relocating to Music City. Members Cal Joslin and Justin Nace joined the band upon Sidewalk Prophet’s arrival to Nashville.
Produced by Ian Eskelin (Stellar Kart, Francesca Battistelli, Sarah Reeves), These Simple Truths centres on the hope that Christ’s love provides. Like most of the band’s recordings, their ministry focus is to help people embrace the uniqueness God has given them.
“The more we look at today’s problems the more we see that a lot of times people are fearful of being themselves,” explains Frey. “And finding our identity in Christ is one of the most crucial steps in loving others. Once people start realizing this and living confidently we’ll see a visible change from households to communities to ultimately the world.
“That’s what we’re all about. The name ‘Sidewalk Prophets’ even means that we are common people speaking the truth about life from our perspective as followers of Christ.”
Already garnering radio airplay on KLTY’s New Music Café with “You Love Me Anyway”, Sidewalk Prophets’ first album single, “The Words I Would Say”, is scheduled for release to radio June 19th.
For additional information on Sidewalk Prophets, visit their YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PagedPulse Partners With Ingrooves/Fontana For New Kevin Max LP
Publish Date: Jun 02, 2009
dPulse Recordings has announced that long-time digital distribution partner INgrooves will handle both the digital and physical distribution of the coming Kevin Max album CÔtes-d’Armor, to be released early 4th Quarter, 2009.
The new album follows two recent Kevin Max releases on dPulse Recordings – the 2008 digital-only release Crashing Gates, which has gone on to become the label’s top-selling digital EP; and Raven Songs 101, a spoken word release recorded by Kevin Max in collaboration with the legendary Adrian Belew (King Crimson, David Bowie, Frank Zappa, Talking Heads). The success of these digital releases proved influential in the decision to partner for both digital and physical distribution for the new album – with the full distribution support of a major mainstream label/distributor.
For CÔtes-d’Armor, exclusive digital distribution will be direct via INgrooves, while partner Fontana Distribution – the independent music arm of Universal Music Group – will facilitate physical distribution worldwide. INgrooves is a strategic partner of UMGD (Universal Music Group Distribution), and has distributed dPulse Recordings digital releases since 2003.
The Kevin Max LP CÔtes-d’Armor will be the first dPulse compact disc release distributed worldwide by INgrooves/Fontana/UMGD.
Max currently has four albums available in Canada, check them out on his YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageNew Music Tuesday Fresh Releases
Publish Date: Jun 02, 2009
Here are today’s new releases:
CDs
DVDs
Songbooks
These titles are now available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the June New Music Tuesday poster. Also, visit the YMZ Music section to check out other upcoming releases.
« Return to Previous PageBuilding 429’s “Always” Music Video Now Online
Publish Date: Jun 01, 2009
The music video for Building 429’s current single “Always” is now online at YMZ’s Media section. Also available are special behind the scenes footage from the “Always” video shoot held in downtown Nashville and the story behind the song.
The song shares the story of an encounter that lead vocalist, Jason Roy had with a woman whose son was murdered by his father and encourages those who are in the midst of hard times that they are not alone. It has been touching the hearts of North America as evidenced by the following comments from fans:
Kristin, fan of Building 429
Trishia, fan of Building 429
Dave, fan of Building 429
The music video was directed by Carl Diebold who has worked with artists such as Third Day, Switchfoot, Skillet, Kutless and more.
“Always” is currently in No. 19 on Soft AC/Inspirational, No. 22 on AC-Indicator and No. 25 on AC-Monitored. On CRW, the single is presently No. 14 AC & No. 9 INSPO. The song is being played on major radio networks such as K-LOVE, SiriusXM, American Family Radio and more.
The song is from the band’s latest self-titled release. Check it out on Building 429’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageFireproof: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack To Release July 14th
Publish Date: Jun 01, 2009
Releasing July 14th, Fireproof: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack recalls the musical inspiration from the film that touched millions of moviegoers last fall. The 17 song various artist soundtrack captures the moving, faith-driven message of 2008’s No. 1 independent film release and Canadian Christian retail’s No. 1 DVD for four consecutive months.
For the first time, fans of the movie can purchase a CD featuring the six artist tracks from the film – including songs from Leeland, Third Day and Casting Crowns – along with 10 orchestral songs from the original score. Plus, as a bonus, the album offers a special Fireproof remix of John Waller’s “While I’m Waiting” with poignant movie clips interspersed throughout the song.
As the film grossed more than $33 million following its September 2008 release, six tracks from the Fireproof movie skyrocketed into the Top 100 chart on iTunes®. In addition, Fireproof sparked a demand from churches and couples nation-wide who wanted to use the film as a tool for contemplating the state of relationships.
Now a catalyst for re-investing in marriage, the Fireproof movie and The Love Dare book and study guide are joined by Fireproof: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack as another resource in the effort to strengthen marriages.
Complete song/artist list for the album is found in YMZ’s Various Soundtracks page. Both the DVD and The Love Dare book is part of the Grow Deeper Summer Sale. Download your copy of the full-colour catalogue and the list of participating Canadian retailers and their sale dates in the YMZ Savings section.
« Return to Previous PageNew Artist Bios Posted
Publish Date: Jun 01, 2009
We have updated bios for several artists. Find out more about some new and upcoming projects from them.
Click on the artist name to read the bios. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the June New Music Tuesday poster.
« Return to Previous PageBehind the Songs with Sarah Reeves, Part Five
Publish Date: Jun 01, 2009
Sarah Reeves shares the inspiration behind “Let Us Rise” from her April 21st debut, Sweet, Sweet Sound. To hear the story in its entirety, visit here.
“A big passion of mine is unity. As the church, we are the body of Christ. While I know we all have our opinions and arguments about God, at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter the denomination of church I go to or the song I sing on Sunday morning. What matters is that I’m a lover of Jesus Christ. As believers, we are all on the same team. We all go by the same book. We all worship the same God. If we can’t get it together in the church, how do we ever expect to get it right in this world? Let us rise together as one in Jesus Christ. Can we lay down our pride and look at the calling on our lives? Our mission is to be love and share truth with this lost and dying world.”
Sarah Reeves
Sweet, Sweet Sound is available at your local Canadian Christian retailer for a great price of $5.99. Check out the album on Reeves’ YMZ artist page.
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Behind the Songs with Sarah Reeves, Part Two
Behind the Songs with Sarah Reeves, Part One
« Return to Previous PageEmery And Press Play Featured On HearItFirst.ca
Publish Date: May 29, 2009
This week’s premieres include the latest from a hard rock outfit and the debut from a band based out of the Dream Center.
Emery are no strangers to success, having played thousands of shows all over the world during their career.
Having radio success and critical acclaim from each of their albums. In Shallow Seas We Sail brings Emery full circle back to their roots as one of the premier bands in their genre. Combining the intensity that put them on the map, with the experience that years on the road will bring to musicians.
Returning to work with producer Aaron Sprinkle (Anberlin, Mae, Emery) to create their best sounding record of their career, with the best song writing of their tenure. In Shallow Seas We Sail will not disappoint for old fans and is sure to secure them plenty of new enthusiasts.
Press Play is driven by the vocal and songwriting vision of David Hanley. Hanley’s musical leadership is complemented by a striking array of emerging young talents, including vocalist Paige Adkins (daughter of comedian Sinbad) and guitar-slinger Tyler Logan. Brought together by a common passion for music, Press Play has exploded into a multimedia experience onstage.
Captivating fans with dynamic and heartfelt songs, Press Play presents a collection of synth pop and guitar driven tunes in Life Is Beautiful. Their debut project contains guest performances by Darlene Zschech (Hillsong), IROCC, and Tyler Williams (Everybody Hates Chris).
Press Play comes from The Dream Center, an inner-city ministry based in Los Angeles. At the Dream Center, 22,000 people are fed weekly, 750 people are housed on a daily basis, 1 million pounds of food is distributed a month and 5,000 people are clothed each month. All proceeds from this album’s sales will be used in the many ministries at The Dream Center.
Life Is Beautiful is available now, while In Shallow Seas We Sail will be available on Tuesday, June 2nd at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the June New Music Tuesday poster. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.
« Return to Previous PageGMA’s Music Training Experience Immerse Comes To Nashville
Publish Date: May 29, 2009
Christian artists, songwriters, worship leaders, and those that want to be someday, will gather in Nashville this summer to Immerse in a four-day event presented by the Gospel Music Association (GMA) that is the Christian music industry’s premier training experience and talent competition.
GMA’s Immerse is scheduled for July 29th to August 2nd on the campus of Belmont University. The event offers unparalleled training, professional and personal feedback, one-of-a-kind concerts and a sense of community to uniquely equip creative Christians to impact culture through music both in and out of the church.
Registration, housing information and all the many details about Immerse are available at www.experienceimmerse.com.
Through Immerse, registrants will train with the industry’s most influential professionals, leading artists and songwriters, connect with top music insiders and others who share a passion for God and music; compete in Christian music’s official talent competition and enjoy exclusive music opportunities that only Nashville can offer.
Artists including Michael W. Smith, Natalie Grant, Aaron Shust, Melinda Doolittle, Phil Stacey, Martha Munizzi and Travis Cottrell will all perform and teach at Immerse. Professionals such as Mitchell Solarek (manager/Natalie Grant); Laurie Anderson (manager/TobyMac); Brad O’Donnell (A&R, EMI CMG); Chris Blaney (booking agent, Third Coast Artists Agency); Leigh Holt (VP of Branding & Merchandising, Word Records) and author David Nasser are confirmed to participate in GMA’s Immerse. More artists and professionals will continue to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
“GMA’s Immerse is more than a professional development event where you learn the tools and skills needed to make it in the music business and to develop important relationships within the industry, though that will happen. Immerse is about refreshing and inspiring the soul and helping musicians see how their music matters, whether their stage is global or local or their platform is universal or one-on-one. Those who come to Immerse may come to Nashville hoping to become the next big thing, and some might. But, all will leave knowing that God has called them to great purpose for their music,” said John W. Styll, president and CEO of GMA.
Immerse was formerly held in Estes Park, Colorado for more than 30 years and was called Music in the Rockies. GMA has moved the event to Nashville – the center of the music business, As a result, registration for the event is already up 30 percent over last year’s Colorado event. Many artists and writers have been discovered or launched their careers through GMA’s talent competitions, including Chris Tomlin, Casting Crowns, Matthew West, Jars of Clay, Nichole Nordeman, Bart Millard (MercyMe), BarlowGirl, Stacie Orrico, Point of Grace, Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Chris Sligh and 2007 American Idol® winner Jordin Sparks.
At the heart of Immerse are the unparalleled opportunities to attend seminars taught by artists and other industry professionals, which cover everything from getting signed by a label to performance techniques to tools for song-writing. Aspiring songwriters and artists can also have their song or demo tapes professionally critiqued. Topics will cover marketing, promotion, radio, A&R, management, publishing, PR, legal and more. The classes will also focus on the roles of an artist/songwriter’s team for those who are interested in management, booking, promotion and more.
Another important feature of GMA’s Immerse is the talent competitions. The Immerse Artist of 2009 National Competition is the Christian music industry’s official talent competition for unsigned acts. At the National Competition which is inclusive of all musical styles and genres of Christian music, Immerse contestants compete for the grand prize titles for Solo 2009, Group 2009 and Band 2009.
The Immerse Song of 2009 National Competition awards grand prize titles, including Song of 2009, and the ABS Scripture Song of 2009. Songs of all musical styles and genres with Christian lyrical content are accepted in the competition and are judged based upon the excellence of song-writing skills within the musical style. The overall song categories are divided by class based upon level of song-writing experience and are given for Amateur, Semi-Pro and Professional Non-Artist classes. The deadline to compete in either the Song or Artist competitions is June 30th.
In addition to the classes and competitions, Immerse takes full advantage of its location in Music City U.S.A. with many opportunities to hear music and hear from the artists creating it. Music highlights include Artist-in-Residence Teaching Concerts, Story Behind the Song Sessions; Evening Concerts, Friday Night Songwriter Showcase and GMA Artist 2009 National Finals Competition.
About GMA:
Founded in 1964, the Gospel Music Association serves as the face and voice for the gospel/Christian music community and is dedicated to exposing, promoting and celebrating the gospel through music of all styles including pop, rock, praise & worship, black gospel, R&B, hip hop, southern gospel, country, and more. The GMA community consists of more than 3,000 members including agents, artists, church leaders, managers, promoters, radio personnel, record company executives, retailers, songwriters and other industry visionaries. The GMA produces the GMA Dove Awards, GMA Music Week and the GMA Academy. For more information, please visit www.gospelmusic.org.
« Return to Previous PageHillsong United Challenges Eminem For #1 Spot
Publish Date: May 28, 2009
Australian-based Christian rock/worship band Hillsong United has earned the #2 spot on the iTunes® Top Album Charts for its just released CD A Cross The Earth:Tear Down The Walls, selling only less digital music copies than Eminem’s new CD Relapse. The CD with its very cool packaging (you have to see it!) is available now at Christian retailers across Canada.
Hillsong United’s accomplishment on the iTunes® Chart comes as no surprise to the millions who have helped make the band a worldwide phenomenon, including here in the U.S. where United is currently touring. Now through August, the band is playing to capacity crowds, including sell-outs at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, the Roseland Ballroom in New York and the Verizon Wireless Ampitheatre in Atlanta. On June 6th, the band will be headlining Christian Heritage Day at Ontario Place in Toronto.
“People of all ages, especially students, are connecting with United’s message of compassion and social justice and their genuine passion for a real connection with God and each other,” says Chris Estes, Director of Digital Marketing for Integrity Music, the label that distributes United in the U.S. “They’re identifying with the band’s passion to live out their faith and make a difference in the lives of those next door and around the world.”
“For a band that is virtually unknown outside the Christian culture to be selling more than Green Day and Lady Gaga and almost as many as Eminem on iTunes®, it says something about United’s amazing trajectory as an impact artist beyond just the Christian music scene,” continued Estes. “And, they did all this without traditional industry drivers like heavy radio play and mainstream TV. Not only do they sell out major venues, churches around the world are singing their songs every Sunday.”
A Cross The Earth:Tear Down The Walls is United’s first new live CD since 2006. The CD features 12 tracks, including 10 new songs of Hillsong United’s signature power pop/rock brand of worship. Audio samples can be found at the band’s YMZ artist page. Download a free song and song chart at unitedacrosstheearth.com.
Hillsong United is making more than 20 appearances in the North America between April and August. Remaining shows are:
5/27 Atlanta, GA
5/29 Birmingham, AL.
5/30 Nashville, TN
6/1 Washington, D.C.
6/2 Boston, MA
6/3 Virginia Beach, VA
6/5 New York, NY
6/6 Toronto, ON [Christian Heritage Day]
6/8 Grand Rapids, MI
6/9-10 Chicago, IL [Willow Creek Conference]
8/21-22 Los Angeles, CA [Encounterfest]
8/24 Denver, CO
8/25 Dallas, TX
8/28-29 Miami, FL [Encounterfest]
Updated tour details for Hillsong United can be found at www.hillsongunited.com and www.integritylive.com.
United frontman Joel Houston says of the band’s music, “We must live out our worship through action by reaching out to the lost and the broken… helping the poor and oppressed, pursuing justice and fairness for all people.We must be a generation of people expressing their heart for worship and realizing God’s purpose for all of us, to love people and be His hands and feet.”
“Every generation needs a revolution,” adds Houston, “And this one needs to look, sound, walk and breathe like love.”
The passion to “live out their worship” is at the heart of Hillsong United’s ministry and also at the heart of Hillsong Church, Australia’s largest evangelical congregation and home to the dynamic youth ministry from which the band emerged. Hillsong’s “Mighty To Save” won this year’s Dove Award for Worship Song of the Year and they are also a recent recipient of the Gospel Music Association’s International Award given in recognition of their impact on the global Church. The various concert events and conferences they have hosted around the world have drawn thousands of young people and their church leaders looking to immerse themselves in worship and gain a better understanding of how to bring a lifestyle of worship to everyday life.
« Return to Previous PageLanae’ Hale’s Busy And Successful Street Week
Publish Date: May 28, 2009
It was a busy street week for one of the most heralded new singer/songwriters in the Christian music industry, Lanae’ Hale. She hit the road in support of her new album, Back & Forth, which released May 19th.
[L-R]: Lanae’ Hale; Anita Lustrea, Executive Producer/Host, Midday Connection; Lori Neff, Senior Producer, Midday Connection [Click image to enlarge]
Hale travelled to Chicago for a taped appearance on Moody radio’s national show, Midday Connection, which will air June 11th. The next day Hale was in South Bend, IN for a live performance/interview on LeSea Broadcasting’s, Harvest Show, and then taped a performance for Live From Studio B that will air at a later date. Then it was on to Dallas, TX where Hale appeared live on Daystar’s Celebration. Her testimony on cutting had viewers calling the prayer lines for help with depression and cutting issues. While at Daystar, Hale taped a performance/interview for Check The Sound that will air in August. The next morning, Hale was up bright and early for a performance/interview on Good Day, which is the #1 morning news show in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.
[L-R]: Natalie Solis, Co-Anchor, Good Day; Lanae’ Hale; Dan Godwin, Co-Anchor, Good Day [Click image to enlarge]
Back & Forth reached the second most downloaded CD on iTunes.com’s Christian page during release week and reviews were very strong for Hale’s debut full-length album. CCM Magazine said, “Rarely does an untried name in music record not only one of the better discs in her new artist class but one of the year’s best CDs – period.”
Hale is traveling back to Chicago this Friday for a performance on WGN America’s Midday News, which is the #1 midday newscast in the country. Her appearance will be live across the country on the cable channel and additional backstage and performance footage can be viewed at WGN.com.
Back & Forth is available now at Christian retailers across Canada. Listen to tracks from the album and read Hale’s story of how God delivered her from addiction on her YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageAyiesha Woods Hits The Movies!
Publish Date: May 27, 2009
GRAMMY®- nominated singer Ayiesha Woods’ hit song “Happy” will be used in the movie My Life In Ruins, which begins showing in theatres nation-wide this June 5th.
My Life in Ruins is a romantic comedy set amongst the ruins of ancient Greece, starring Winnipeg native Nia Vardalos (My Big Fat Greek Wedding),Richard Dreyfuss,Alexis Georgoulis,Rachel Dratch (Saturday Night Live),Harland Williams and British comedy actor and impressionistAlistair McGowan. The film is about a tour guide whose life takes a personal detour, while her group gets entangled in comic situations among the ruins, with a series of unexpected stops along the way.
Woods’ sophomore release Love Like This was released last September 9th and has joined the highly merited ranks of her power-packed Gotee Records album Introducing Ayiesha Woods. The debut offering garnered Woods a GRAMMY® nomination for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album, as well as nabbing her an additional nod in the Dove Awards New Artist of the Year category. CCM Magazine also followed Woods’ career as one of three emerging musical talents for 2006 in their “Band Wagon” column, and MTVU.com’s URGE service picked Introducing Ayiesha Woods in their 2006 TOP 10 year-end list for Inspirational music. Woods, a favourite on the Women of Faith touring circuit, continues to perform throughout this year at festivals and on dates nation-wide.
Check out Introducing Ayiesha Woods, the album that “Happy” is found, and her latest album, Love Like This, on Woods’ YMZ artist page. Both albums are available at your local Canadian Christian retailer.
« Return to Previous PageWorship Artist Matt Papa Signs With Centricity Music
Publish Date: May 27, 2009
Centricity Music is happy to announce the signing of worship artist, Matt Papa, to the label’s artist roster. The first project from Papa, Your Kingdom Come, will be released August 18th.
Your Kingdom Come was produced Jason Hoard (Fee, John Waller) and Allan Salmon (Lanae’ Hale, This Beautiful Republic, Seabird). The project showcases songs that were written by Papa and takes this self-described “preacher with a guitar” to a whole new musical level. The first single, “Open Hands”, will be going for adds at AC and CHR radio on June 19th. Papa performed the song during GMA week at Centricity Music’s Monday night showcase and again at a private GMA press dinner in the Centricity suite. Each time the song reverberated with the audiences and delivered a powerful spiritual impact. Check out more photos from the concert in the YMZ Photo Gallery.
Papa performing during GMA Music Week [Click image to enlarge]
“From the moment I heard Matt’s music I knew there was something special about what he does,” says Guy Zabka, Director of A&R, Centricity Music. “As I’ve gotten to work with Matt I’ve learned that every song he writes, every note he sings and every song he performs is done with complete passion and conviction. His ability to call and lead people to worship is unmistakable and the joy he finds in spreading the Gospel is truly inspiring. To get to work with an artist of Matt’s calibre is an honour for us at Centricity and we’re very excited about what lies ahead for him and his ministry.”
“With all my heart I want to be able to look back and say, when this career thing is over, is that the kingdom of God was advanced through this relationship… not the kingdom of Matt Papa,” explains the artist. “I want to see disciples made, churches started, missionaries sent out, and most of all the praise and the gospel of Jesus Christ to spread all across this broken planet. Hand in hand I pray that we (Centricity and myself) would make music that makes much of Jesus, makes people adore Him, and makes Satan really, really angry. And I also hope to beat John Mays in racquetball one day soon.”
Papa released his first self-titled project as an independent artist in 2006 that rapidly garnered the attention of the Christian music industry. ChristianMusicToday.com exclaims, “While other worship leaders have trouble making music that resonates with the church, sometimes allowing artistry or commercial appeal to get the best of them, Papa is able to balance it all without compromising the power of the song.” The album also received national radio airplay and distribution at Christian retailers across the country. The first single from the album, “You Are Good”, was featured on Rick Warren’s The Invitation CD compilation which sold over one-million units. Another tune from the self-titled album, “Unto the One”, was featured on the 2007 WOW Worship multi-artist project. Papa has ministered and continues to minister with several organizations throughout the country that includes Student Life, Georgia Baptist Convention, David Nasser Outreach. He currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia with his wife, Lauren, who is expecting their first child in June.
For more information on Papa, please visit his YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PagePhilmont Partners With Steelroots For Video Series
Publish Date: May 27, 2009
Forefront Records and Philmont joined forces with Steelroots this spring for a new original series of webisodes featuring the Charlotte-based rock band. The webisodes reveal what happens during a day in the life of a touring band.
“We only work 20 minutes out of the day so there is a whole lot of downtime,” laughs singer/guitarist Scott Taube. “Probably about 85 percent of our entire day is downtime. So you’ll get to see how we handle downtime and how we amuse ourselves.”
Launched back in April, “Philmont Rising” will offer a new webisode on the 13th of every month during this year-long campaign. Episode 1 (“Who the Heck Is Philmont?” ) and episode 2 (“Our First Taste of Tour” ) are currently available at Steelroots.com.
“We couldn’t be happier about working with Forefront Records and Philmont to bring this new content to the Steelroots community,” says Bryan Smerdon, director of programming for Steelroots. “They produce relevant music that appeals to today’s generation and are the perfect partner for the Steelroots brand. It’s clear that they have set a high standard of excellence in their work, and we’re excited to be partnering with them on this project.”
View the “Philmont Rising” webisodeshere.
About Steelroots
Launched in 2000, Steelroots is one of the expanding outreaches of the Inspiration Ministries. Since its launch, Steelroots has become a leading provider of Christian content for youth and young adults, using television, Internet, print media, products, and special events to accomplish its vision of “revealing the Truth to today’s generation.” Steelroots’ original television programs include “Steelroots: The Show”, “Countdown”, “The Uprising”, and special programs that address timely topics. Steelroots TV airs in 127 countries and in more than 135 million households worldwide through INSP (The Inspiration Network), i-Lifetv (Inspirational Life Television), and INI (Inspiration Network International). For more information visit Steelroots.com.
About Philmont
Philmont began when singer Scott Taube and guitarist Josiah Prince connected after the break-up of their former local outfits. After many self-booked tours and one-off dates to support an ambitious independent release, the group landed a performance at Christian music’s ultimate event, the Cornerstone Festival. It was at Cornerstone that Philmont caught the attention of EMI/Forefront Records, inking a record deal in early 2008. That summer the band debuted a digital EP, Oh Snap, and then released the EP to Canadian Christian retail on April 21st, 2009. Produced by Rob Hawkins (Fireflight, Jackson Waters), the album was met with applause from critics who cited, “This stuff is solid” (AbsolutePunk.net) and “What a first impression… Philmont is a perfect addition to the record collections of All-American Rejects and Relient K fans” (The Phantom Tollbooth). This summer the band will make appearances at select festivals including Ichthus, Cornerstone, Sonshine Fest and Soul Fest.
The Oh Snap EP is specially priced at $5.99. Check it out on Philmont’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageBehind the Songs with Kristian Stanfill, Part Four
Publish Date: May 27, 2009
Kristian Stanfill shares the inspiration behind “Go” from his April 21st debut,Attention. To hear the story in its entirety, visit here.
“This is a song for all generations, young and old. It’s a gathering and a sending out. It’s about moving forward. This is about offering hope to the hopeless, carrying restoration to the broken and breaking the prisoner out of prison.”
Kristian Stanfill
Attention is available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Check out the album on Stanfill’s YMZ artist page.
Related articles
Behind the Songs with Kristian Stanfill, Part Four
Behind the Songs with Kristian Stanfill, Part Three
Behind the Songs with Kristian Stanfill, Part Two
Behind the Songs with Kristian Stanfill, Part One
« Return to Previous PageThe Wrecking Partners With Founding Member Of P.O.D.
Publish Date: May 27, 2009
The Wrecking has announced an exclusive management agreement with Mark “Traa” Daniels of Ryot Entertainment Group. Based in southern California, Ryot Entertainment specializes in Production, Management, Grass roots promotions, Street Team/Fan Based Development, Image development, Song arrangement, Band and artist infrastructure, Internet and New Media Campaigns, Tour and Booking Assistance, Creative Marketing, and Consulting in all areas of music.
[L-R]: The Wrecking’s Darren Elder (drums); Doug Elder (lead vocals); Joe McCann (turntables/synth/vocals); Mark “Traa” Daniels; Dustin Burnett, producer; Karl Anderson (keys/bass). Click image to enlarge
Daniels is one of the founding members of the platinum selling band P.O.D. With nine million albums sold, three worldwide tours, eight major label releases, and numerous motion picture soundtracks under his belt, he is very aware of what it takes to be successful. Daniels helped P.O.D sell almost 40,000 cds before getting signed to a major label, ensuring a strong fan base. Over the years, Traa has helped to build a large fan base consisting of over 200,000 members.
“I am honoured to have the opportunity to work with this group of guys,” says Daniels. “The music, drive, passion, and work ethic that these guys possess are rare traits in this industry. We are gearing up for an exciting 2009 and beyond.”
In addition to his success as a musician, Daniels has been able to be in the studio with award-winning producers such as Glen Ballard, Travis Wyrick, Howard Benson, and Jay Baumgardner. Daniels has worked with acts such as The Dirty Heads, The Katinas, and Stars Go Dim, among others.
The Wrecking will release a Special Edition Digital version of their successful national debut entitled A New Abolition. In addition to the eleven original songs on their Chosen/Executive/Universal project, A New Abolition, the digital, repackage version will include three “live” versions of the songs as well as two cover tunes of Coldplay’s “Lost” and U2’s “Get On Your Boots”. The Wrecking’s video of “Get On Your Boots” was recently named one of the top 50 music videos on YouTube. As an exclusive bonus via iTunes®, the Special Digital Repackage of A New Abolition will also include the music video of “You Remain”. The digital repackage should be available June 2.
“You Remain”, the current music video from The Wrecking, is being played nationwide on several video shows including Gospel Music Channel. The video is also featured on Interlinc’s Spring Music Video Loop which is serviced to thousands of youth leaders across the country. The Wrecking continues to tour the country and is set to appear at several music festivals this summer including Cornerstone, Lifest, Icthus, Soul Fest, Rock the Light, SoulJam, Unity Fest, among others.
For more information, visit The Wrecking’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageHawk Nelson Gears Up For Release Of “Live Life Loud” This Fall
Publish Date: May 27, 2009
The question “Where in the World is Hawk Nelson?” would be appropriate for the band that has been coast to coast this year playing in front of more than 350,000 fans with the Winter Jam Tour Spectacular (January-March), REVOLVE tour (January-February), and finished up the Rock and Worship Roadshow in April. Despite this insane touring schedule, fans will be pleased to know that these road warriors have found time to record their fourth studio album in Nashville, TN. The new album Live Life Loud will release on Tooth & Nail Records / BEC Recordings this fall, October 6th.
Live Life Loud features co-writing with Chris Stevens, Matthew Gerrard, TobyMac, Trevor McNevan, Steve Wilson, Bart Millard and others to be announced. The band has already been performing the title track and “Meaning of Life” for fans who attended the Rock and Worship Roadshow receiving a huge response. Stay tuned for more information about this new album. To wet fan’s appetite, new songs such as “Live Life Loud” and “Meaning of Life” plus more will be available at Hawk Nelson’s merch booth this summer. The band appeared at YC Alberta this past weekend and will be at Wonder Jam at Canada’s Wonderland in Vaughan, Ontario on June 27th. Check the YMZ Concert listings for more details.
Hawk Nelson with a fan who came to the Oklahoma City TOMS Shoes Style Your Sole Event
In their efforts to continue to pave the road to help those in need, Hawk Nelson has committed to obtaining 5,000 pair of shoes to children in need with TOMS Shoes, whose motto is “One for One.” For every pair purchased, TOMS gives a pair of shoes to a child in need. To help them reach their goal for children in Haiti, Hawk Nelson will be hosting six in-store “Style your Sole” with TOMS Shoes in July (dates below) while they are in local areas for concerts. The band encourages fans to come meet them and be one of the first 100 fans to buy a pair of TOMS Shoes to personally meet the guys and get autographs. During the “Style your Sole” you can purchase a pair of TOMS and decorate them for your very own customized pair.
Hawk’s Jason Dunn gets creative with TOMS Shoes
About Hawk Nelson
This powerhouse, pop rock foursome hailing from Peterborough, Ontario, Canada has won the hearts of fans and media nation-wide since their 2004 debut release Letters to the President with more than 600,000 lifetime sales and three studio projects later. Hawk Nelson has appeared on NBC’s “American Dreams”, had a cameo appearance in the hit Nickelodeon film “Yours, Mine, & Ours”, where they played their original song “Bring Em Out”, as well as had their songs featured on NBC’s 2006 Stanley Cup promo spots, WB’s “Smallville”, “Summerland”, and “Laguna Beach”. In 2008, Hawk Nelson Is My Friend debuted at #34 on the Billboard Top 200 selling more than 18k units. Hawk Nelson Is My Friend was also the top selling new release on the Christian album chart in addition to the comprehensive chart. The album also successfully debuted on the digital store iTunes® with a No. 13 debut on the Top 100 albums chart on street day and remains on that chart one week later. Also the debut single “Friend Like That” sold 25,000 digital copies up to street week on iTunes®. The album artwork also received GRAMMY® and Dove nominations for “Best Packaging”. For more information, visit the band’s YMZ artist page.
Hawk Nelson Loves Toms Shoes
Hawk loves TOMS Shoes. TOMS Shoes provide shoes for children in poverty stricken areas with the motto “One for One.” For the band’s effort, every pair of shoes purchased via Hawk Nelson’s website, TOMS donates a pair of shoes to someone in Haiti as the band’s ongoing involvement with the Hands & Feet Orphanage. Coming this year will be a Hawk Nelson TOMS shoe designed by the band. Check out HawkNelson.com to find out how you can buy a pair today and change the life of a child tomorrow. For more information visit www.tomsshoes.com.
TOMS Shoes In-Stores with Hawk Nelson
July 2
Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center
1501 Gaylord Trail
Grapevine, TX 76051
Store: WIIFY (10 miles away)
July 10
Kingswood Amphitheater
16000 Theme Park Way
Doswell, VA 23047
Store: Need Supply Co. (20 miles away)
July 18
The Levy
River Road
Baton Rouge, LA
Store: Noelie Harmon (in Baton Rouge)
July 19
Linn County Fair & Expo
3700 Knox Butte Road
Albany, OR 97322
Store: Exit Real World (25 miles away in Salem, OR)
July 24
Six Flags Over Texas
Arlington, TX
Ph: 817.640.8900
Store: Teesie’s Attic
July 25
« Return to Previous PageVerizon Wireless Amphitheater
8808 Irvine Center Drive
Irvine, CA 92618
Store: Active Ride
Israel Houghton Video Song Stories
Publish Date: May 26, 2009
Multiple GRAMMY®, Stellar and Dove Award winner, Soul Train Award winner and double RIAA® certified Gold®-selling artist Israel Houghton released his highly anticipated album, The Power Of One, on March 24th. Within a week, the most widely acclaimed recording ever for Houghton became a no. 1 best selling album.
Now in the YMZ Media section, you can watch videos of Houghton talk about the story behind may of the songs on his hit album. You can also catch the video for “Just Wanna Say”. It is a danceable confection reminiscent of OutKast’s “Hey Ya”. It’s the infectious rave-fave of Israel’s kids (ages 12, 7 and 5). In fact, that is Israel’s son drumming on the tin can outside of the music store.
The Power Of One is available now at Christian retailers across Canada. Do yourself a favour. Check out the videos and then pick up a copy this funky cool CD.
« Return to Previous PageNew Music Tuesday Fresh Releases
Publish Date: May 26, 2009
Here are today’s new releases:
CDs
French CDs
DVDs
These titles are now available at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the May and June New Music Tuesday poster. Also, visit the YMZ Music section to check out other upcoming releases.
« Return to Previous PageNewsboys Holds At No. 1 On The Soundscan Christian Albums Chart A Second Consecutive Week
Publish Date: May 22, 2009
Newsboys holds at no. 1 on the SoundScan Christian Albums Chart a second consecutive week. Critics are calling In The Hands Of God the band’s best disc to date:
”... Boasts some of their most contagious and memorably fresh melodies to date…In the Hands of God makes a fitting transition into a new phase of musical ingenuity for one of Christian music’s iconic bands.”
GospelMusicChannel.com
”... A batch of tunes that assimilate the finer aspects of the band’s past work… [A] vigorous blend of new wave, brittle rock and electronic pop to give the band’s fans a generous helping of what has made newsboys one of the most successful acts in CCM history.”
Christian Musician
”... In the Hands of God proves that the boys from Down Under not only still have what it takes to create an album worthy of the band’s legacy, but have perhaps recorded one of the finest, most cohesive and well-produced newsboys projects to date.”
Soul-Audio.com
”... The CD features classic rock ‘n’ roll newsboys – big guitar riffs, driving drums and some quirky, pop lyrics thrown in for fun – all with a message… If you are a longtime newsboys’ fan, this CD is a must.”
Denver Post
Check out In The Hands Of God and the story behind it at the newsboys’ YMZ artist page. The album is available at your local Canadian Christian retailer.
Related articles
Newsboys’ New Album In The Hands Of God Debuts At No. 1
Newsboys Claims 25th No. 1 Single With “In The Hands Of God”
Michael Tait To Join Newsboys
Newsboys Readies Fourteenth Studio Album, “In The Hands Of God”
Newsboys Announces The Return Of Long-Time Guitarist Jody Davis
« Return to Previous Page“God Rocks! Live in Miami: The HD Experience” Coming To A Theatre Near You
Publish Date: May 22, 2009
God Rocks! is coming to the big screen at more than 70 Cineplex Entertainment theatres across Canada on Saturday, June 13th, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
The God Rocks! Live in Miami HD experience captures the award-winning kid’s group in an awesome concert before a packed, live audience in Miami, Florida. Crystal clear HD picture and awesome surround-sound bring the God Rocks! to the big screen like they have never been seen or heard before! A short God Rocks! animated space-adventure, Starlight Rescue, will also be premiered. This one-of-a-kind, kid’s movie event will run two hours in length (including an intermission).
Advance tickets are now available at select Cineplex Entertainment locations across the country and online at www.cineplex.com/events. General admission is $9.95 and children (3-13 years) are $8.95 each. Special group rates of $7.95 each are also available for groups of 20 or more. For more information on group rates call 1-800-313-4461.
For participating theatre locations, please visit www.Cineplex.com/events, www.GodRocks.ca or www.UniteProductions.com.
« Return to Previous PageMandisa Hits The Red Carpet At The American Idol® Finale
Publish Date: May 22, 2009
It’s a good week to be Mandisa. After being featured on Entertainment Tonight on Wednesday, Mandisa landed a spot in US Weekly’s “Hot Bodies” issue out on news-stands now. The singer also attended the highly anticipated season eight finale of American Idol® held on Wednesday, May 20th at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, California.
Mandisa spoke with US Weekly while in New York in detail about her 85 pound weight loss. Entertainment Tonight also came to capture the Idol alum’s photo shoot and to find out more about her recent weight loss. For more information on US Weekly, visit www.usmagazine.com.
While on the Idol finale red carpet, Mandisa spoke with E! News, TV Guide, Fox News, AmericanIdol.com and more. The season five finalist also appeared on Idol Tonight Tuesday, May 19th. Mandisa also twittered about her Idol finale experience, to view her twitter page go to twitter.com/mandisaofficial. You can also find YMZ on Twitter here.
Mandisa on the red carpet [© WireImage. Click image to enlarge]
Season seven alum David Hernandez and Mandisa before the finale [Photo: Courtney Hyder. Click image to enlarge]
With fellow season five finalist Ace Young in the midst of Fox affiliate news interviews [Photo: Courtney Hyder. Click image to enlarge]
Season four runner-up Bo Bice and Mandisa take a break during interviews [Photo: Courtney Hyder. Click image to enlarge]
Mandisa will also be appearing on the Trinity Broadcasting Network tomorrow evening, Saturday, May 23rd at 6:00 p.m. CDT speaking about her experience on the Women of Faith tour. For more information on TBN, visit www.tbn.org.
Mandisa is speaking to women worldwide about the freedom she has experienced through her faith and incredible 80+lb weight loss in her sophomore album release, Freedom, which bowed March 24th. Mandisa has also been seen on Today, CNN online, E! News Live and more in promotion for her latest album.
Freedom is the follow-up to Mandisa’s 2007 debut, True Beauty, an album that created history by becoming the highest chart entry and the best-selling debut artist in the life of her label, Sparrow Records. It also became the only female debut to hit no. 1 in the 27 year history of Billboard’s Christian Retail Chart. True Beauty received a GRAMMY® nomination for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album, and her debut single “Only the World”, hit #1 on Billboard’s Hot Single Sales chart.
« Return to Previous PageGlenn Packiam Confronts Rumors And Revelations
Publish Date: May 22, 2009
Integrity Music announces the debut solo release for songwriter, worship leader and Desperation Band’s Glenn Packiam. Rumors and Revelations will release on June 23rd and will coincide with the publishing of his second book Secondhand Jesus… Trading Rumors of God for a Firsthand Faith.
Packiam is a worship pastor at New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado and also the director of its New Life School of Worship. And, as one of the founding leaders and songwriters for the Desperation Band, Packiam has been featured on several of their critically-acclaimed albums including Everyone Overcome, Who You Are and From The Rooftops. He also has been featured on New Life Worship’s albums such as Counting On God and the award-winning My Savior Lives.
With his first solo effort, Packiam offers up new worship songs and contemporary favorites in the 10 song CD, produced by Jeff Quimby (who has worked with Lincoln Brewster, Selah and Joel Augé ). Included are two of Packiam’s most important worship music contributions “My Savior Lives” and “Your Name” as well as new songs “Burning in Me”, “For Love I Sing”, “Without You” and “My Hope”, the last being a personal message of hope offered to friends who experienced the stillbirth of their baby.
“Many of the songs were written over the last two years, during my own journey of wrestling with God,” says Packiam. “I had been coasting in my own walk with the Lord and allowed my view of God to devolve into a patchwork of rumours. I would never have said that I believed these half-truths about God; things like ‘God will give me what I want’ or that ‘God shares my goal of success’, but I was living as if I did. There are no shortcuts to God. The way to God – to life – is vigourous and requires total attention. I pray these songs reflect that and ignite the heart on a journey to firsthand faith.”
Rumors and Revelations’ 10 songs stand alone as a unified worship project, but the CD also provides context and perspective to Packiam’s new book. Secondhand Jesus… Trading Rumors of God for a Firsthand Faith, published by David C. Cook Publishing, challenges readers to let go of mistakenly held rumours about God and enter into an authentic experience of Christ’s power first-hand. Songs from Rumors and Revelations correspond to specific chapters in the book. This is Packiam’s second book. His first was Butterfly in Brazil: How Your Life Can Make a World of Difference (Tyndale House).
Preview several songs from Rumors and Revelations on Packiam’s YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageHillsong United And Christy Nockels Featured On HearItfirst.ca
Publish Date: May 22, 2009
This week’s premiere feature that Aussie worship band and a singer well known for her work with Watermark and Passion.
Across The Earth: Tear Down The Walls is Hillsong United’s first new LIVE recording since 2006 featuring 10 new songs from this best-selling band.
The project was produced by the Hillsong Church team of Michael Guy Chislett, Andrew Crawford and Joel Houston.
Hillsong United set to perform June 6th in Toronto. See YMZ Concert listings for full details.
One of Christian music’s most recognizable and prolific female voices, Christy Nockels, was born in Ft. Worth, TX as a “seminary baby”. She grew up in Oklahoma as the daughter of a pastor and a piano teacher, which infused her heart early with a love for both music and God’s word.
Together as Watermark, Christy and her husband Nathan recorded five albums with Rocketown Records. They composed a journey full of songs, seven of which were no. 1 radio singles. They have been nominated for numerous Dove Awards, including Christy’s nominations for Female Vocalist of the Year. Christy and Nathan have served at Passion Conferences since 1997 and in 2008, they moved to Atlanta, GA to be a founding family of Passion City Church.
Christy releases her first solo worship project, Life Light Up, with sixstepsrecords. She’s been busy playing before national audiences on Chris Tomlin’s “Hello Love Tour”, where she’s singing vocals with Chris and debuting her new single “Life Light Up” each night.
Christy’s heart through leading worship and song writing is to help people communicate intimately with the living God, and to leave a legacy of proclaiming Jesus’ fame to this generation.
Life Light Up will be specially priced at $9.99. Both titles will be available on Tuesday, May 26th at your local Canadian Christian retailer. Keep track of all the new and upcoming releases via your own personal copy of the May and June New Music Tuesday poster. Head over to HearItFirst.ca to hear these new releases.
« Return to Previous PageBluetree Announces First North American Tour
Publish Date: May 21, 2009
Belfast, Ireland-based modern worship band Bluetree, whose acclaimed album, God Of This City (titled Greater Things in Canada), has become one the best selling Christian recordings this year, receives a boost this week from American Idol® winner Kris Allen. Allen has been performing the title track to Bluetree’s album, “God Of This City”, a song birthed by the band in a brothel in Thailand. See video of Allen performing the song at here.
An anthem being sung worldwide, “God Of This City” was written by Bluetree during a mission trip and while the band was on stage performing worship songs in the Climax Bar, a club which doubles as a brothel in the Red Light district of Pattaya, Thailand. The song became a message of hope for the people of Pattaya and is now being sung in churches across the world, with the Willow Creek Association recently concluding its worship pastor seminar with the song. It was further recorded by Chris Tomlin and became the name and theme for the latest Passion project and world tour.
Bluetree will be playing “God Of The City” and its brand of worship-rock on its first ever tour of the U.S. that begins July 17th and follows concerts for an estimated 35,000 people on a six-city tour of Canada that began May 17th at YC Montreal, continuing with Unite In Worship in Burnaby, BC this Friday, YC Alberta this Saturday and Sunday, ending with Christian Heritage Day on June 7th in Toronto. Event details are available in the YMZ Concert listings.
Having spent four consecutive weeks on top of SoundScan’s Christian retail sales chart, a remarkable feat considering the band has never toured in the U.S. or Canada, Bluetree brings its energetic concerts this summer to major Canadian cities and U.S. festivals that include Alive Festival (Akron, OH), Creation Northeast (Mount Union, PA), Cornerstone (Bushnell, IL), Kings Fest (Doswell, VA), Spirit Song (Cincinnati, OH), Lifest (Oshkosh, WI), SoulFest (Gilford, NH), Rock the Desert (Midland, TX) and more.
Following the summer concerts, Bluetree will join NewSong this fall on a tour to major markets throughout the U.S. beginning in September and running through November. Tour cities to be announced soon.
Ahead of the tour, Billboard’s correspondent Deborah Evans Price predicted the band’s success: “Look for this talented outfit to become one of the Christian market’s most enthusiastically embraced new worship bands.”
After seeing the band perform during Gospel Music Week in Nashville, Beth Bacall, Star 99.1 FM midday air personality in New York City, echoes that a Bluetree tour is one not to miss: “What an amazing explosion of sound. Bluetree cuts straight to the core after the first chord. Musically, spiritually they pull you and you can’t let go until they finish, and even then you’re left with lyrics floating all about. There is an obvious connection between all the band members that really permeates through the crowd and within their music. Add in some serious rock and Bluetree has a sound that definitely deserves airplay plus a show that needs to be seen.” Check out the YMZ Photo Gallery here to catch the band’s activities during GMA Music Week.
One of the reasons Bluetree has found such quick success in North America stems from the song that has preceded the band’s arrival. In addition to Kris Allen, Chris Tomlin and other artists and church worship leaders singing the song, the title track to the acclaimed debut album, God Of This City, has become an R&R multi-format radio hit, landing this week at No. 14 on the AC Indicator, No. 13 on the CHR and No. 6 on the Soft AC / Inspirational charts and continuing to climb.
With an unabashed attitude of worship running through all of the songs on God Of This City, which released in the U.S. on March 3rd on the Lucid Artist label and August 26th, 2008 in Canada, the album also reflects the highs and lows that inevitably come with the journey of faith. Critics from Billboard, Lexington Herald-Leader and Belfast Telegraph to Worship Leader, ChristianMusicToday.com, CBN.com and CBA Retailer + Resources and more are heralding Bluetree’s God Of This City, describing it as “stunning debut album”, “inspired and inspiring”, “an experience”, and calling the band the “next big leader” and “freshest sounding” with “compelling musicality”.
For more information on the band, including a compelling acoustic video performance and explanation of the song “God Of This City” by Bluetree lead vocalist/guitarist Aaron Boyd, as well as a free download of the congregation-ready song “Each Day” from its acclaimed God Of This City/Greater Things debut album, go here.
Learn more about Bluetree on their YMZ artist page or check out their EPK in the YMZ Media section. Greater Things is available at Christian retailers across Canada.
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Bluetree Becomes Best Selling New Artist Of The Year At Christian Retail
Bluetree’s “God Of This City” No. 1 At Retail For Third Consecutive Week
Bluetree’s U.S. Debut, “God Of This City”, No. 1 At Retail For Second Consecutive Week
Bluetree’s “God Of This City” Becomes No. 1 Best Selling CD This Week
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Bluetree: God Of This City
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« Return to Previous PageBuilding 429, 33Miles And Pocket Full Of Rocks To Perform At Operation Ethan Benefit Concert
Publish Date: May 21, 2009
In an effort to financially aide Ethan Bibb, an 8-year-old boy who is battling Medulloblastoma, a cancer of the brain and spinal cord, Operation Ethan is born. This project will feature a live concert, auction and family fun including bounce houses, crafts, jewelry making, caricatures, and more! The event begins at 10:00 p.m. on May 30th in Cross Plains, Tennessee at Kilgore Park.
INO Records’ Building 429 and 33Miles as well as Word Record’s Pocket Full of Rocks will join the concert bill along with Nashville’s 94FM the Fish at Kilgore Park in Cross Plains for a benefit concert at 6:00 p.m. No tickets are required for the concert but there will be a $10 suggested donation at the gate. To view more information about the concert, click here.
Ethan’s diagnosis began in late March when he was taken to Vanderbilt hospital for an incurable stomach virus. Doctors then learned that Ethan has a walnut sized tumour pushing on the base of his brain. Though they were able to remove the tumour, there are many spots on Ethan’s brain that have proven to be inoperable. In late April, Ethan began an aggressive radiation and chemotherapy routine. He is currently in stage IV of Medulloblastoma.
Operation Ethan will benefit Ethan and his family with the financial hardships they are facing. In recent times, Ethan’s father also lost his job in the down-turned economy while the family also lost their home as well.
In only three weeks, Ethan’s Caring Bridge site has garnered 10,000 visitors. For updates on Ethan’s condition, please visit here. To donate, please visit here. In addition, www.operationethan.com will go LIVE later this week, where everyone is invited to log on to find out more information on the project, Ethan and contributions can be given.
Building 429
Building 429 has had a history of success with the release of three albums and now the rock band has joined forces with INO Records for their fourth studio record which became available in stores last fall. In 2005, “Glory Defined” was named BMI’s Christian Song of the Year, they were named the Gospel Music Association’s 2005 New Artist of the Year and nominated that same year for Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year and Song of the Year. They have toured with artists such as TobyMac, Family Force 5, Casting Crowns and Thousand Foot Krutch. Jason, Michael and Jesse are excited for their fans to hear a record that reflects where they are as individuals and artists. For more information on the band, please visit their YMZ artist page.
33 Miles
After logging in over 120,000 miles (not including air travel), performing at over 200 churches, garnering radio hits and a 2008 Dove nomination for New Artist of the Year, 33Miles released their sophomore record One Life on September 16th to much praise. Critically acclaimed, One Life entered the Top Christian Soundscan Album Sales chart and the Christian Digital chart at No. 5, while debuting at No. 160 on the Billboard Top 200. Since their debut in 2007, 33Miles’ Jason Barton (lead vocals), Chris Lockwood (guitar) and Collin Stoddard (keys) celebrated one of the highest-selling freshman albums of 2007 with their GMA Dove Award nominated project 33Miles. For more information on the band, please visit their YMZ artist page.
Pocket Full of Rocks
Dove Award-nominated worship group Pocket Full of Rocks first made a splash on the Christian music scene with their hit songs, “Let It Rain”, and “Let the Worshippers Arise”, found on Michael W. Smith’s Platinum®-certified Worship album, and Phillips, Craig and Dean’s recent release, respectively. The group later released their debut commercial project, Song to the King, in 2006 to critical acclaim, followed by their sophomore album, Manifesto, in 2007. The band is currently working on their third studio album and tours constantly. For more information on the band, please visit their YMZ artist page.
« Return to Previous PageRock & Worship Roadshow Wraps After All-Star Line-up Performs Before 170,000+ Screaming Fans
Publish Date: May 21, 2009
The all-star line-up on The Rock & Worship Roadshow recently wrapped having stationed in 20 cities before a total of 170,000 screaming fans.
Rock & Worship Roadshow concludes after performing in 20 cities nation-wide [Photo: Nic West / Click image to enlarge]
Sharing the stage on the Roadshow were multi-platinum selling and GRAMMY®-nominated, Dove and American Music Award winning band MercyMe along with Gold® selling and multiple Dove award winner Jeremy Camp, Hawk Nelson, 2009 Dove Award winner for New Artist of the Year Tenth Avenue North and Addison Road. The Roadshow celebrated a sold out crowd of 18,000 in Dallas, TX along with sold out shows in Boise, Portland, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Fresno, Wichita, Springfield, MO and Cedar Rapids. In addition, a sum of 78,000 fans tuned in to watch the tour LIVE online at www.rockandworhiproadshow.com.
A total 170,00 screaming fans came out to the tour to see their favourite bands rock the stage [Photo: Brody Harper / Click image to enlarge]
Not only were concertgoers treated to an amazing night of ministry and entertainment those thousands of people across the country responded to also impact those far beyond the venue walls. Through MercyMe’s Imagine A Cure in partnership with Compassion International, 3,000 children were sponsored by fans attending the Rock & Worship Roadshow. These sponsorships will help children in third world countries receive medical treatment, balanced nutrition and a Biblical education. Additionally, 600 of those children will receive the additional medical care needed to treat their special medical conditions. For more information on Imagine A Cure go to www.imagineacureonline.com. For more information on Compassion International, go to www.compassion.com.
Photo: Brody Harper [Click image to enlarge]
“This tour has been a dream of ours since the very beginning and to see it come alive is truly remarkable,” says MercyMe’s Bart Millard. “We were overwhelmed by the number of people that came out to each show and we appreciate their support. With this tour we strived to put the fans first and believe the gospel was and continues to be shared with millions.”
Plans are currently underway for the Second Annual Rock & Worship Roadshow scheduled to hit the road in February 2010. For more information on the Roadshow please log on to www.rockandworhiproadshow.com.
« Return to Previous PageMat Kearney “City Of Black & White” Song Stories, Part II
Publish Date: May 21, 2009
Go behind the scenes with Mat Kearney as he talks about the making of his forthcoming May 19th release, City Of Black & White. Click here for part two of this four-week series.
Check out audio samples for all the songs on City Of Black & White and the story behind it at the Kearney’s YMZ artist page.
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Mat Kearney “City Of Black & White” Song Stories, Part I
« Return to Previous PageBehind the Songs with Sarah Reeves, Part Four
Publish Date: May 21, 2009
Below Sarah Reeves shares the inspiration behind “Fresh Anointing” from her April 21st debut, Sweet, Sweet Sound. To hear the story in its entirety, visit here.
“I see God raising up a new generation. I see change in our culture and churches. I believe that God is doing a new thing in and through us as the body of Christ. The message of God will always be the same, but I pray for a fresh anointing, a fresh wind of God’s Holy Spirit to sweep across the nations like we have never seen before.”
Sarah Reeves
Sweet, Sweet Sound is available at your local Canadian Christian retailer for a great price of $5.99. Check out the album on Reeves’ YMZ artist page.
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Behind the Songs with Sarah Reeves, Part Three
Behind the Songs with Sarah Reeves, Part Two
Behind the Songs with Sarah Reeves, Part One
« Return to Previous PageRed’s “Death Of Me” Top 10 On Multiple Radio Charts
Publish Date: May 21, 2009
After seeing it’s sophomore album, Innocence & Instinct, debut at No. 15 on The Billboard 200 sales chart in February, Grammy®-nominated modern rock band Red continues its drive at retail thanks to the multi-format hit single, “Death of Me”, a successful spring headlining tour and a strong response from both national and local media outlets.
L-R: Anthony Armstrong, Michael Barnes, Jasen Rauch, Randy Armstrong. [Photo Credit: Caleb Kuhl / Click image to enlarge]
“Death of Me”, the principal single from Innocence & Instinct, climbs to No. 7 (with a bullet) this week on the Active Rock chart with 921 total spins and an audience reach of 2.1 million listeners at that format alone, according to Radio & Records. The key markets supporting “Death of Me” with major airplay include Chicago, Salt Lake City, Denver, Spokane, Seattle, Las Vegas, Indianapolis and Syracuse. Meanwhile, the music video for the high-impact single was recently ranked in the No. 10 on FUSE TV’s “FUSE Rock Countdown”.
As “Death of Me” gains momentum, Red’s reach at radio continues to grow beyond core rock radio stations. Last week (5/14), the Westwood One Radio Network, carried by more than 250 stations across the country, featured Red; with the on-air host even taking time to read a blog-posting by bassist, Randy Armstrong.
In addition, Red, like rock acts P.O.D. and Chevelle, benefits from significant airplay at Christian radio. “Death of Me” is currently No. 3 on R&R’s Christian Rock chart while Christian CHR stations heavy on Red’s “Never Be the Same”, which recently peaked at No. 3. To meet demand, fans will be treated to another single from Innocence & Instinct as “Mystery of You” releases this week.
In addition to the radio success, Red’s Innocence & Instinct continues to benefit from a popular spring headlining tour. The coast-to-coast run displays Red’s increasing appeal as the band performed in venues ranging from 500-1000 seats. The response to Red has been so overwhelming, on several occasions the band sold out of its T-shirts and CDs, and had to advance replacements to the next show date. “We’re really blown away by the response to the new record. The songs we’re doing at our shows every night really seem to be connecting with people,” shares guitarist Jasen Rauch.
Along the way, Red took time out to join Anberlin in opening for Korn last month during a show sponsored by Tuscon’s KFMA radio. Hitting the road this past January, Red will have performed 130 shows by the end of June supporting its growing reputation as one of the hardest touring bands on the road today. Red’s next tour, which will kick off in Atlanta on June 19th, will welcome special guest Framing Hanley as the co-bill artist.
The Nashville-based band, made up of guitarist Jasen Rauch, singer Michael Barnes, guitarist Anthony Armstrong and his twin brother, bassist Randy Armstrong has maintained a near-constant presence on the road. Since its Grammy®-nominated 2006 debut End of Silence released, the band has toured alongside other high profile rock acts such as Three Days Grace, Korn, Flyleaf, 3 Doors Down, Breaking Benjamin, Seether, Papa Roach, Buckcherry, Sevendust, Staind, Kutless, Third Day, Switchfoot and others, while rave reviews for the band’s live shows have poured in via both print and online outlets alike.
Innocence & Instinct (and its Deluxe Edition) released February 10th to rave reviews in major media outlets including USA Today and Billboard. With first-week sales of 40,000 copies according to Nielsen SoundScan, the album debuted as the no. 15 best selling album on Billboard’s Top 200 chart. It also claimed the no. 5 spot on iTunes® Overall Albums chart. To date, Innocence & Instinct has scanned more than 120,000 units since its February 10th debut. The new album built on the momentum of Red’s 2006 debut, End of Silence, which has scanned more than 300,000 units and earned several awards and nominations including a Grammy® nod in the album category.
For more information about Red and the Innocence & Instinct Deluxe Edition which includes four bonus tracks, the “Death Of Me” video (which can also be seein in the YMZ Media section), behind-the-scenes footage and an extended booklet, please their YMZ artist page. The albums are available at Christian retailers across Canada.
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RED’s “Innocence & Instinct” Rocks The Charts With Its Third Week At No. 1
RED’s “Innocence & Instinct” Ends Its Second Week Atop Charts
RED’s “Innocence & Instinct” Tops Nielsen Sales Charts
RED’s “Innocence & Instinct” Explodes During Street Week With A Sold Out Hometown Show
Red’s Smash Single “Fight Inside” Returns To No. 1
Red’s “Death Of Me” Video Now Online
Red’s “Death Of Me” Debuts This Week On The R&R Active Rock Chart At #39
« Return to Previous Page“Glory Revealed II: The Word Of God In Worship” To Release July 14th
Publish Date: May 20, 2009
As a follow-up to their multiple Dove Award-winning 2007 release Glory Revealed: The Word of God in Worship, project visionaries Mac Powell (Third Day) and David Nasser (author/speaker) announce the release of a second CD in the award-winning series, titled Glory Revealed II: The Word of God in Worship. Set for a July 14th release, the Powell-produced project again blends roots-driven worship music with Biblical truth designed to musically stamp the word of God on the heart of listeners. Glory Revealed II features vocals from 21 different artists including Mark Hall, Amy Grant, Sara Evans, Shane & Shane, Natalie Grant and Brandon Heath, among others.
“When David and I talked about doing a second record, I really had a vision of us making music together,” Powell said. “I wanted it to really be a retreat time where we could sleep late if we wanted to and spend some time in God’s word together. I was hoping that it would naturally work, that people would go off on their own and start writing songs. It totally happened, and it was amazing.”
Organic in feel and creation, Glory Revealed II was, in many ways, birthed as an outpouring of the original album’s impact on the artists involved. The tour in particular served as a catalyst for the development of a tight-knit artistic and spiritual community, setting the stage for the latest musical instalment and informing the musical direction for the new recording. Writers, musicians and artists gathered for a week-long creative retreat last summer in the woods of Georgia at a rustic hunting lodge, one that had been converted from a three-story grain silo.
Nasser said, “The lodge really added the ultimate Americana feel, a rustic scene with the tin roof and the wide-open spaces. This is the kind of music that has a lot of space so you don’t miss the lyrics. You can’t miss what makes this record so amazing and that is the word of God.”
Glory Revealed II draws from several passages of Scripture, including excerpts from Psalms, Corinthians, Hebrews, Isaiah and more. Worship artist Matt Maher said, “Most Christian music is inspired by Scripture and references it or quotes it, but these songs are making much more of an intentional effort to immerse people in Scripture.” Participating vocalist Jason Crabb, of Southern Gospel’s The Crabb Family added, “Scripture is alive and it does something to our souls.”
The first radio single, “Since the World Began”, is performed by Matt Maher, Amy Grant, Ed Cash and Mac Powell. The song is currently adding at Christian AC radio. Recent Dove-winner for Male Vocalist of the Year, Brandon Heath says, “My favourite song is ‘Since the World Began’. That’s such a great line, ‘Since the world began, no ear has heard or eye has seen a God like you.’ I totally worship to that song in my car. I love, love, love that song. I’m excited for people to hear it as the first single.”
Sonny Lallerstedt, who co-wrote “There is a City” and played multiple instruments on the CD, summarizes the special event album by saying, “What a privilege it is for us to be able to take these words – of Jesus, the disciples, the Old Testament, the New Testament – and to be able to set them on a plate for people to be able to really eat from and to really get that word in them.”
For more on Glory Revealed II, and a listing of upcoming tour dates, please visit www.gloryrevealed.com. Check out the complete song list, including performing artists, and preview several tracks from the project here.
Forged from a creative vision shared by Mac Powell, front-man for GRAMMY®-winning rock band Third Day, and acclaimed author/speaker David Nasser, Glory Revealed: The Word of God in Worship won two Dove Awards, spawned the no. 1 song “By His Wounds”, and inspired people around the world to sing Scripture. The 2009 instalment, Glory Revealed II: The Word of God in Worship, brings 21 artists together to craft a new album sure to use musical creativity to plant God’s word on hearts and minds of all ages. David Nasser’s book, Glory Revealed: How The Invisible God Makes Himself Known continues to be the perfect companion to these records.
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