Weekend Top 25

Week of July 1st, 2006

2006-07-01T23:05:00.000-07:00

They skip a few weeks and then post in the future. What can I do?

1.	Praise You In This Storm: Casting Crowns
2.	My Savior My God: Aaron Shust
3.	So Long Self: Mercy Me
4.	Bless The Broken Road: Selah
5.	How Great Is Our God: Chris Tomlin
6.	Find Your Wings: Mark Harris
7.	Strong Tower: Kutless
8.	Third Day: Mountain of God
9.	Welcome Home: Brian Littrell
10.	Only Grace: Matthew West
11.	I Am: Mark Schultz
12.	David Crowder Band: Wholly Yours
13.	I Need You To Love Me: Barlowgirl
14.	This Man: Jeremy Camp
15.	Light Of The World: Watermark
16.	Paul Colman: Holding onto you
17.	Everything and More: Storyside:B
18.	Real To Me: Nicole Nordeman
19.	All That I Am: The Afters
20.	He Took The Scars: Brothers Keeper
21.	Happy: Ayiesha Woods
22.	Sweetly Broken: Jeremy Riddle
23.	Believe: Andy Chrisman
24.	Jesus, Take The Wheel: Blank
25.	My Jesus: Todd Agnew

News: "David Crowder Band In The Running On MSN" by Brent Gilbert with CMCentral.com

2006-06-16T01:22:00.000-07:00

DAVID CROWDER BAND has been selected as one of five artists to be considered for MSN’s July Artist of the Month. Artists being considered in addition to DCB are Nelly Furtado, Frankie J, Busta Rhymes and Neil Young. You can vote for your favorite at http://music.msn.com/music/artistofthemonth. As of 2:42 p.m. CST today, Crowder has 71% of the more than 201,000 votes! Here’s what MSN has to say about Crowder:

DAVID CROWDER In only a couple of years, David Crowder and his band have single-handedly redefined what contemporary Christian music should sound like. While Crowder is unafraid to make direct and straightforward pledges to his savior, he seems extremely restless creatively and tries his hand at any style that suits him. Even Crowder's fans in the Christian music community had to be blown away by the album "A Collision or (3+4=7)," a literate, pensive and complicated album about death. It won the Dove Award for Best Rock Album, and has even secular fans wondering what's up next.

News: "Kirk Franklin's "Imagine Me" To Premiere On BET" by Brent Gilbert with CMCentral.com

2006-06-16T01:20:00.000-07:00

Fo Yo Soul Entertainment/Zomba recording artist Kirk Franklin has completed the music video for "Imagine Me", the second from his nearly platinum-selling latest release, "Hero". Shot in multiple locations in Los Angeles during a brief break from The Hero Tour, the emotionally-charged clip was co-directed by Franklin and Max Nichols.

An anthem of victory and overcoming obstacles, "Imagine Me" encourages everyone to begin to see themselves through the eyes of Heaven and break through to the truth of who God says that they are. An instant classic, the song is being hailed by critics and fans alike as the latest career milestone for Franklin. In the same vein, the video raises the bar a notch higher as the central theme of the song is vividly illustrated through relatable real life situtations that are sure to tug at the heart and soul of the viewer.

The "Imagine Me" video will be the special feature on this Sunday's (June 18 - Father's Day) edition of BET's Lift Every Voice as host Gerard Henry goes behind the scenes to give viewers a sneak peek at how the video came together. Then, BET takes you even deeper into the making of the video during a special edition of Access Granted on Wednesday, June 21. You don't want to miss either one!

Catch the Sunday morning premiere and Life Every Voice behind the scenes special this Sunday, June 18 at 12:00pm ET/PT /11:00am CT. Then be sure to watch the prime-time premiere and Access Granted special edition on Wednesday, June 21 at 7:30pm ET/PT, 6:30pm CT. Then log on to Kirk's message board or blog at www.kirkfranklin.us to share you thoughts about the video with Kirk and other fans!

As always, for the latest news and information on Kirk, stay tuned to KirkFranklin.us

CD Spotlight: Brian Littrell

2006-06-09T01:28:00.000-07:00

Bio:
They say a good friendship will last a lifetime. Though many of us don't experience this very often for one reason or another, it's likely that we have connected with someone in our lives that we can consider a friend of this caliber. When you're enjoying a friendship like this, the normal things that can cripple a relationship - distance, time away, arguments - can't take away the depth of love that you share. Whenever you're with your friend or friends, it's as if you've never been apart at all. You can so easily pick you where you last left off that it feels completely natural and comforting.

Hailing from the well-known group, The Backstreet Boys, Brian Littrell tests out some new waters, branching out as a solo artist, to release Welcome Home his debut in the Christian market. As the title suggests, the album discusses the comforts of familiarity and a return to one's natural surroundings. The title track references the parable of the prodigal son and is perhaps a bit autobiographical as it's one of the six songs Littrell had a hand in penning. Elsewhere, Littrell points out that his relationship to God is one of the driving forces to his life and career. "My Answer Is You" credits God for being the reason he sings, "You Keep Giving Me" thanks God for continuing to offer love and support, "I'm Alive" expresses how God gives Littrell life and "Grace of My Life" reminds us of the power of forgiveness and grace.

Welcome Home also reminds us of how closely related the pop and country music genres are related, as Littrell blurs the lines crossing back and forth between the two. "Gone Without Goodbye" and "Angels and Heroes" feel quite country in flavor, while tracks like "I'm Alive" and "My Answer Is You" are clearly pop songs. The album also dabbles a bit with a gospel feel on songs like "We Lift You Up." Despite the many different styles present, however, the album maintains a consistancy due to the solid production quality which should be expected. Vocally, Littrell is slightly unimpressive though, lacking a strength and distinctive quality needed to successfully stand out as a solo act.

Brian Littrell caused a big buzz within the industry upon recording "In Christ Alone" for the WOW #1s album a year ago, but unfortunately Welcome Home fails to live up to the hype surrounding this debut release. Fans of The Backstreet Boys who are willing to admit their allegiance to the group will probably come out in droves to support this effort, but the album clearly takes a few steps backwards creatively and musically. This album finds Littrell returning to the stage of an unestablished, at times awkward young artist looking for the right direction to go.

Artist Interview: Jessie Daniels

2006-06-09T01:25:00.000-07:00

Interview Clips:

How Jessie Got Her Start In Music...

About the new record....

About The Song "Everyday"

When you’re a teenager, there’s almost nothing more important than blending in. You dress the same, talk the same, see the same movies—anything to avoid standing out too much from your peers. But for 18-year-old Jessie Daniels, this wasn’t the way she wanted to live her life. Instead of following the crowd in high school, this New York native embraced her faith and followed her dreams instead. And her decision to be different—to fully embrace the ups and downs that come with everyday life—has provided the inspiration for her self-titled debut.

Like many successful young artists, Daniels made her performing debut early. Working as an actress since she was eight, Daniels appeared in multiple independent films and commercials for The Lifetime Network and MTV. In addition to print advertising gigs, she also was involved in musical theater and off-Broadway plays. But what Daniels loved more than anything was music, particularly singing. And it wasn’t too long before she’d have the opportunity to showcase the skills that eventually led to “her life’s calling.” Growing up in what she describes as a “very loud, Italian Catholic family,” Daniels was active in her home church. “I always knew about God, but never really realized you can have a relationship with Him,” Daniels remembers. “It wasn’t until I attended church with a Christian friend that my heart really began to change. For the first time, I experienced God in a real way and saw something new I wanted to commit myself to.” It was during this time that Jessie also realized there was far more to performing than simply entertaining people. “I remember thinking ‘God, I want to use my singing for you. Lead me.’”

A few months later, Daniels traveled to Nashville to check out the musical possibilities, and “it sort of blossomed from there,” she recalls. In 2003, Daniels began writing and recording her first project, a six-song EP she released independently on her Web site. Before long, her hard work paid off with national attention and, eventually, performances at Radio Disney concert events. After that, additional dates with Kutless, Seventh Day Slumber, Paul Wright, Across the Sky and more positioned the emerging artist in front of an even wider audience. Knowing it was time for the next step in her career, Daniels met with several record labels and signed with Midas Records as the company’s first faith-based artist. Midas Records A&R executive Brad Allen explains, “I knew my two-year-long search to deliver music with a positive message to a broader audience was over upon meeting Jessie Daniels. I was convinced instantly that this New York teenager’s talent and message would drive the launch of Midas’ CCM division.”

With the business side of things nailed down, Daniels was free to focus on recording her debut. Teaming up with producer Scott Davis, she co-wrote on all 12 songs. “It’s my goal for these songs to be ‘me’ in every way possible,” Daniels says. “I’m coming alongside people who know me well and understand what I want to say.” It’s also important to Daniels to make her own mark on the music world. “My songs capture that rock ambience with a pop edge that I love,” says Daniels. “It’s so important to me to find my own identity, and I’m getting to do that on this album.” Daniels’ first single, “The Noise,” reflects that unique musical vision. But even beyond the catchy hooks, it’s what the song is saying that’s ultimately more important to Daniels. “In the tough times, you want to hear God’s voice through the chaos,” she explains. “It’s cool because The Bible always talks about God’s still, small voice. But yet ‘The Noise’ is this loud, pumpin’ pop/rock song. I guess God speaks to people in different ways.” In stark contrast to “The Noise,” another song Daniels can’t wait for people to hear is a ballad titled “Hold Me Now,” a song that came out of an extremely painful time in Daniels’ life. “‘Hold me Now’ is my worship song,” Daniels says. “When most people think of worship, they think of a song like ‘God of Wonders.’ But where I’m coming from here is that you can be different and worship God in your own way.”

When considering her place in the music scene, Daniels’ hope is to encourage Christians and non-Christians alike with a message that continues to have an impact on her. “For me, growing up in New York and becoming a Christian there, it’s on my heart to show people God in as real and relevant of a way as possible,” Daniels concludes. “Because of how advanced and progressive things are in New York, you’re not going to get through to people unless you’re real, honest, and able to identify with them. That’s how I intend to be about my faith through the music. Obviously, music is what I love, and what I want to do, but ultimately it’s my calling more than a job.” Now really, we couldn’t have said it better ourselves. For more information on Jessie Daniels, please visit www.jessiedaniels.com.

Week of June 6th, 2006

2006-06-06T01:29:00.000-07:00

The date might look incorrect as the previous listing was for the "Week of the June 3rd, 2006" but I am going with the date on the website. Sorry for the confusion.

1.	Praise You In This Storm: Casting Crowns
2.	My Savior My God: Aaron Shust
3.	So Long Self: Mercy Me
4.	How Great Is Our God: Chris Tomlin
5.	Find Your Wings: Mark Harris
6.	Bless The Broken Road: Selah
7.	Strong Tower: Kutless
8.	Welcome Home: Brian Littrell
9.	Third Day: Mountain of God
10.	Only Grace: Matthew West
11.	I Am: Mark Schultz
12.	I Need You To Love Me: Barlowgirl
13.	Light Of The World: Watermark
14.	This Man: Jeremy Camp
15.	David Crowder Band: Wholly Yours
16.	My Jesus: Todd Agnew
17.	Paul Colman: Holding onto you
18.	Free: Shawn McDonald
19.	Saved: Warren Barfield
20.	All That I Am: The Afters
23.	He Took The Scars: Brothers Keeper
24.	Hallelujah: blank
24.	Happy: Ayiesha Woods
24.	Jesus, Take The Wheel: Blank
25.	Real To Me: Nicole Nordeman

Week of June 3rd, 2006

2006-06-03T00:26:00.000-07:00

1.	Praise You In This Storm: Casting Crowns
2.	My Savior My God: Aaron Shust
3.	So Long Self: Mercy Me
4.	How Great Is Our God: Chris Tomlin
5.	Bless The Broken Road: Selah
6.	Only Grace: Matthew West
7.	Strong Tower: Kutless
8.	Find Your Wings: Mark Harris
9.	I Am: Mark Schultz
10.	Welcome Home: Brian Littrell
11.	I Need You To Love Me: Barlowgirl
12.	Light Of The World: Watermark
13.	This Man: Jeremy Camp
14.	Jesus, Take The Wheel: Carrie Underwood
15.	Cry Out To Jesus: Third Day
16.	Third Day: Mountain of God
17.	My Jesus: Todd Agnew
18.	David Crowder Band: Wholly Yours
19.	Hallelujah: Nicol Sponberg
20.	Free: Shawn McDonald
21.	All That I Am: The Afters
22.	Paul Colman: Holding onto you
23.	Saved: Warren Barfield
24.	Brothers Keeper: He Took The Scars
25.	Unchangeable: ZOEgirl

The Weekend Top 25 Poll for May 24th, 2006

2006-05-24T13:37:00.000-07:00

Future Hit: He Took the Scars by Brother's keeper.

2006-05-24T13:31:00.000-07:00

What do you think about the new song by Brother's Keeper?

51%		I love it!
17%		I like it
26%		It's okay
6%		I don't like it

I am back up. Thanks for waiting.

2006-05-24T13:05:00.000-07:00

The site was up all along. However, my bookmark, referred to a specific page. They changed which folder the page was in. That broke my link. I have changed my bookmark and the links on this page to simply go to the root of the server.

Week of May 20th, 2006

2006-05-20T13:38:00.000-07:00

For the week of: 05/20/06
1.	My Savior My God: Aaron Shust
2.	Praise You In This Storm: Casting Crowns
3.	How Great Is Our God: Chris Tomlin
4.	So Long Self: Mercy Me
5.	Only Grace: Matthew West
6.	I Am: Mark Schultz
7.	Jesus, Take The Wheel: Carrie Underwood
8.	Light Of The World: Watermark
9.	Bless The Broken Road: Selah
10.	Cry Out To Jesus: Third Day
11.	I Need You To Love Me: Barlowgirl
12.	This Man: Jeremy Camp
13.	Strong Tower: Kutless
14.	Psalm 40: Newsong
15.	Find Your Wings: Mark Harris
16.	Welcome Home: Brian Littrell
17.	Free: Shawn McDonald
18.	I Am Free: Newsboys
19.	Hallelujah: Nicol Sponberg
20.	My Jesus: Todd Agnew
21.	We Are One Tonight: Switchfoot
22.	Sometimes By Step: Bebo Norman featuring Rich Mullens
23.	Saved: Warren Barfield
24.	All That I Am: The Afters
25.	Unchangeable: ZOEgirl

News: "Adios Audio A" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-05-19T13:23:00.000-07:00

As announced earlier this year, 2006 will mark the final chapter in the Audio Adrenaline history books. But fear not! Mark, Will, Ben and Tyler aren't going anywhere before releasing Adios, a greatest hits collection slated to hit a store near you on August 1, 2006.

With plans for Adios in its initial stages, fans can anticipate a commemorative look at the expansive career of Audio Adrenaline through the band's greatest hits along with two newly recorded songs. A special edition Adios package is slated to include a DVD containing all Audio Adrenaline videos, live performance footage and new band interviews. This package will also feature interviews from artists impacted by Audio Adrenaline, including tobyMac and Steven Curtis Chapman, as well as members of MercyMe, Pillar, Relient K and Newsboys, each talking about their shared tour experiences and favorite memories of Audio Adrenaline.

"The plans emerging for Adios promise to deliver a fun and poignant experience in which Audio Adrenaline fans can participate," says York. "The legacy of Audio Adrenaline is one that will continue to make impact for many years to come."

More information available at: audioa.com .

News: "Switchfoot Bro-Am Surf Contest Makes Waves June 3" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-05-19T13:18:00.000-07:00

Top rock act Switchfoot hosts its 2nd Annual Bro-Am surf contest at Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, California, on June 3, 2006. The event benefits Casa de Amparo, an organization providing emergency shelter, treatment, and intervention services for abused and neglected children in San Diego County.

The Switchfoot Bro-Am includes a surfing contest from 7 AM until 2:30 PM and a multi-artist concert from noon until 5 PM that concludes with Switchfoot’s first hometown performance of 2006. The concert is free and open to the public; other local acts scheduled to perform include surf legend Tom Curren, Years Around The Sun, and Tristan Prettyman.

In addition to the surfing team entry fees and corporate sponsorships, funds for the Bro-Am event will be raised at a June 1 auction dinner.

For information about making donations to the auction, entering the Bro-Am surf contest, and more, visit http://MySpace.com/SwitchfootBroAm.

News: "Building 429 & Total Axxess go on tour" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-05-19T13:15:00.000-07:00

Total Axxess host Jayar recently finished traveling on several dates with the Rise Tour, featuring Building 429 and Tait. The show was broadcast from several cities across America, (including Memphis, TN; Baltimore, MD and St. Louis, MO) on CHRSN (The Christian Hit Radio Satellite Network). “This tour has been another example of the uniqueness of Total Axxess,” comments CHRSN General Manager Faron Dice, “Jayar has been offering radio listeners a realistic view of what it’s really like to be a Christian music artist including; living on a bus, eating a lot of fast food, and waking up each day in a different city. It’s the type of “access” that radio listeners love.” Total Axxess is a radio program which airs live from Nashville, TN from 7PM – Midnight (Eastern) weekdays on 95 signals across the nation offering access to Christian music’s top artists. More information is available at totalaxxess.com.

I have no information on what is happning

2006-05-18T12:10:00.000-07:00

The official Weekend Top 25 website appears to be down. I am currently in the dark. If you can access the site http://www.25countdown.com/wt25/index.cfm, please let me know.

Week of May 13th, 2006

2006-05-12T10:42:00.000-07:00

1.	My Savior My God: Aaron Shust
2.	Praise You In This Storm: Casting Crowns
3.	How Great Is Our God: Chris Tomlin
4.	So Long Self: Mercy Me
5.	I Am: Mark Schultz
6.	Only Grace: Matthew West
7.	Jesus, Take The Wheel: Carrie Underwood
8.	Light Of The World: Watermark
9.	Cry Out To Jesus: Third Day
10.	Bless The Broken Road: Selah
11.	This Man: Jeremy Camp
12.	I Need You To Love Me: Barlowgirl
13.	Psalm 40: Newsong
14.	Strong Tower: Kutless
15.	Lifesong: Casting Crowns
16.	Find Your Wings: Mark Harris
17.	I Am Free: Newsboys
18.	Welcome Home: Brian Littrell
19.	My Jesus: Todd Agnew
20.	Free: Shawn McDonald
21.	We Are One Tonight: Switchfoot
22.	Hallelujah: Nicol Sponberg
23.	Sometimes By Step: Bebo Norman featuring Rich Mullens
24.	Saved: Warren Barfield
25.	Holding Onto You: Paul Colman

News: "Jeremy Camp featured at Hallmark" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-05-11T10:55:00.000-07:00

BEC Recording artist Jeremy Camp has yet another great opportunity for his latest recording. “Live Unplugged: Jeremy Camp.” The project will be available in 500 Hallmark Gold Crown stores nationwide, along with Amy Grant’s “Rock of Ages”, the only other Christian artist included in the national chain’s Mother’s Day/Father’s Day promotion.

Other artists featured in Hallmarks’ promotion include Neil Diamond, Rod Stewart, SheDaisy, Jim Brickman, and Michael Buble.

From sales to radio and from media to touring, Jeremy Camp is continuing to make a definitive mark in the industry with his hit songs and ability to capture audiences of all ages. Being named “Songwriter of the Year”, and awarded for “Song of the Year”, at the 28th Annual ASCAP Christian Music Awards, Camp has marked his place in the Christian Music Industry. With an amazing nine No. 1 back to back radio hits under his belt, Camp has graced the covers of Pollstar, CCM, Breakaway and Christian Music Planet, and has also garnered praise from such publications as Billboard, CCM, CRW and R&R, and CCM named him 2005’s Reader’s Choice for Favorite Artist and Favorite Male Artist. His current project is the popular Jeremy Camp: Live and Unplugged DVD/CD.

For more information and his touring schedule, please visit JeremyCamp.com.

News: "New dates for Kirk Franklin tour" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-05-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

Fo Yo Soul Entertainment/Zomba recording artist Kirk Franklin announces new dates for “Kirk Franklin & Friends,” the next leg of his national tour in support of his latest CD Hero. The new upcoming tour dates will allow many of Franklin’s fans in markets that do not traditionally get major concerts to attend his performance including cities such as Charleston, SC, Rochester, NY, Omaha, NE, Des Moines, IA and Macon, GA among others. The tour also plans to make a stop in New Orleans at the New Orleans Arena.

Fellow artists joining the gospel music star on the “Kirk Franklin & Friends” portion of the tour is EMI Gospel artist and Dallas native Myron Butler along with his group Levi, as well as Stellar Award winning Sony Urban artists Men of Standard. Commenting on having his friends join him for this leg of the tour Franklin says, “I am honored to welcome long time friends Myron Butler and his group Levi as well as my boys, Sony Urban artists, Men of Standard for the second leg of tour.” Remaining on the tour is Philadelphia-based Cross Movement Records’ hip hop artist, Da’ T.R.U.T.H of whom Franklin says is, “the perfect marriage between the streets and the soul.”

The first leg of Franklin’s “Hero Tour” kicked off February 28 -- with special guests Mary Mary -- and played to sold-out venues in cities across the country including New York City, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Miami, Austin, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Cleveland and Washington, DC to name a few. In a recent review of the show, the Newark Star-Ledger wrote, “Franklin puts an unabashedly modern spin on gospel music, embracing hip-hop music as well as hip-hop showmanship.” Due to previous commitments this summer, the Grammy Award winning gospel sisters duo will not be continuing on this leg of the tour.

Kirk, the biggest selling gospel artist in the SoundScan era, is well-known for his dynamic and energetic performances, which have included two hugely successful “Hopeville Tours” in the past few years. On the current tour, the gospel dynamo performs selections from his sixth CD Hero, which debuted in the #1 position on two Billboard Magazine charts -- Top Gospel Album and Top Christian Albums – and continues to maintain the top positions respectively. The music video for the second single, “Imagine Me” is scheduled to be filmed later this month in Los Angeles. The video for “Looking For You,” the first single release from the CD, continues in heavy rotation on BET.

The gospel mogul recently took a brief break from touring and was rewarded by receiving two 2006 GMA Music Awards – one for Best Urban Recorded Song for his #1 single, “Looking For You” and one for Best Urban Album for his latest chart-topping CD, Hero during Gospel music’s biggest night of the year. The multiple award winner also served as show co-host and performed at the 37th Annual Gospel Music Association Music Awards (formerly the Dove Awards) held at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville. The awards show is currently being televised nationally in syndication through May 21 (check local listings).

Franklin has received other award recognition for his latest works. Earlier this year, the multi-talented artist received a Best Gospel Performance nomination from the 2006 Grammy Awards for his #1 hit single “Looking For You,” a 2006 NAACP Image Award Nomination for Outstanding Gospel Artist (Traditional or Contemporary), as well as a 2006 Soul Train Award nomination for Best Gospel Artist.

Aside from touring, the community-minded Franklin has teamed up with The Children’s Defense Fund (CDF), a private, nonprofit organization that for more than 30 years has provided a strong, effective voice for all the children in America who cannot vote, lobby, or speak for themselves. As newly-named Faith Ambassador to the organization, Franklin will help promote the tenth anniversary of CDF’s “Stand for Children” to build a movement to Leave No Child Behind and to provide a voice for better policy choices affecting the 37 million Americans, including 13 million children living in poverty. Visit www.childrensdefense.org to learn more about CDF’s research, public policy initiatives, programs and outreach throughout the country.

Don’t miss what The Philadelphia Inquirer describes as “one of the hardest-working men in show business, as well as one of our hardest-working preachers,” when Kirk Franklin & Friends brings one of the most exciting and worship-filled gospel tours of the year to your market!

Stay tuned to KirkFranklin.us for all the latest news and updates.

News: "B Collision is Coming June 27th" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-05-11T10:49:00.000-07:00

Nashville, TN, May 8, 2006 – sixstepsrecords/Sparrow Records collegiate favorite David Crowder Band prepares to release B Collision: The Eschatology of Bluegrass June 27. The album follows the path of A Collision, which has been widely regarded as one of the best albums of 2005, receiving five-star reviews and comparisons to groundbreaking albums of the past and artists such as The Beatles, Bob Dylan and Hank Williams.

In September 2005 David Crowder Band’s A Collision debuted at No. 39 on the Billboard Top 200, became an iTunes No. 1 hit and launched the top 10 R&R hit single, “Here Is Our King.” Lauded by Billboard, Washington Post, Knight-Ridder, Dallas Morning News, Relevant, CCM, etc., the album also sparked the band’s fastest selling album to date. The recording continues to be a SoundScan Christian Retail sales hit after 31-weeks. The album further captured GMA Music Award honors for Best Rock/Contemporary Album and Best Rock/Contemporary Song (“Here is Our King”).

Recently finishing a hugely successful tour that saw 19 sellouts with Third Day, David Crowder Band has also completed acclaimed tours with Michael W. Smith and MercyMe, as well as continues to be a featured band at the enormously popular collegiate Passion gatherings. Taking inspiration from its engaging live performances and with a full summer festival schedule (see www.DavidCrowderBand.com), David Crowder Band now offers B Collision, an intimate, acoustic version of its parent recording.

“We prepared and distributed a musical documentation entitled A Collision,” says David Crowder. “It would be rhetorical nonsense to have begun with B Collision. And thus, B follows A. It heaves its inspiration and meaning from what was ordered before it. It consists of a number of songs. Most of them rendered in the acoustical fashion. Simple constructions. Wood and metal strings. Vibrating the air. Some of these songs have been here before. But not presented in this manner. And then something fun happened on tour this fall. A moment of the "LIVE" variety that we insist on sharing.

“And then there is the subtitle,” continues Crowder. “A Collision had a subtitle and B follows A and so B must and does have a subtitle. ‘The Eschatology of Bluegrass.’ Wood and metal singing. Moving the air. Telling of how things will be okay. Regardless of how they seem right now. Something will follow. We are in sequence. And it just so happens we know the beginning and the end.”

B Collision also features the acoustic version of the current A Collision hit single “Wholly Yours,” as well as Crowder with special guests Robbie Seay Band and Shane & Shane on his “Be Lifted” and “I Saw the Light.”

Capturing the attention of such significant media as the New York Times, CNN, FOX News and more, David Crowder Band is known for pushing musical boundaries. The band was the first Christian artist to foster a partnership with M-Audio/Propellerhead’s Reason software and Crowder is the namesake behind premiere guitar maker Tom Anderson Guitarworks’s Crowdster Acoustic and the DCB-inspired guitar, The Atom. David Crowder Band also makes it a point to get back to the church they helped found, University Baptist Church, on most Sundays.

More on David Crowder*Band at: DavidCrowderBand.com.

Future Hit: All That I Am by The Afters

2006-05-08T21:41:00.000-07:00

Song: All That I Am Artist: The Afters Click Here to listen to this song

46%		I love it!
20%		I like it
26%		It's okay
9%		I don't like it

Week of May 6th, 2006

2006-05-08T21:31:00.000-07:00

For the week of: 05/06/06
1.	My Savior My God: Aaron Shust
2.	Praise You In This Storm: Casting Crowns
3.	How Great Is Our God: Chris Tomlin
4.	I Am: Mark Schultz
5.	So Long Self: Mercy Me
6.	Jesus, Take The Wheel: Carrie Underwood
7.	Only Grace: Matthew West
8.	Cry Out To Jesus: Third Day
9.	This Man: Jeremy Camp
10.	Bless The Broken Road: Selah
11.	Light Of The World: Watermark
12.	I Need You To Love Me: Barlowgirl
13.	Psalm 40: Newsong
14.	Lifesong: Casting Crowns
15.	Strong Tower: Kutless
16.	I Am Free: Newsboys
17.	Find Your Wings: Mark Harris
18.	What Are You Waiting For: Natalie Grant
19.	Hallelujah: Nicol Sponberg
20.	We Are One Tonight: Switchfoot
21.	My Jesus: Todd Agnew
22.	Free: Shawn McDonald
23.	Sometimes By Step: Bebo Norman featuring Rich Mullens
24.	Welcome Home: Brian Littrell
25.	Saved: Warren Barfield

News: "Sneak Peak at RunKidRun" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-05-05T23:05:00.000-07:00

Absolutepunk.net has posted the next three songs off of Run Kid Run's debut album, "This Is Who We Are" which hits stores May 16th! The album comes out in two weeks but you can already listen to the first six songs off the record now! Listen to the new songs now here.

News: "National Day of Prayer calls for one nation under God" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-05-05T23:01:00.000-07:00

(Nashville, Tennessee) - May 3rd, 2006-- In a week when immigrant voices have risen in angry protest as thousands marched through the streets of America, one young immigrant voice will rise tomorrow to remind America of the importance of God and prayer.

Australian born singer Rebecca St. James will be at the White House tomorrow, May 4th, for official events surrounding her role as 2006 National Spokeperson of the National Day of Prayer, an observance recognized each year on the first Thursday of May.

The Grammy winning singer emigrated with her family from Australia to the U.S. in the 90's while she was still in her early teens. Hers has truly been the American dream of finding success in a new land-as well as learning first-hand the power of God and prayer.

St. James and her family of nine went through extreme hard times in their new homeland when shortly after their arrival, her dad, a music business executive, soon lost his promised job in America.

She noted in recalling those difficult times:

"We would literally sit on the floor in a family circle praying for our needs and for money for food. Bags of groceries would often be on the porch when we opened the door. We never saw who left them. Checks would come in the mail from strangers for just the amount of money we had need of. My mother gave birth to my youngest sister after we arrived America. We prayed as a family because we were concerned that we had no money for the hospital bill. Someone paid the total hospital bill, and to this day we don't know who. I've seen the power of God answering prayer."

A short decade later, from her platform now as one of the major voices in contemporary Christian music, Rebecca will be in the nation's capital to both sing and speak to some of the key leaders of our country about the importance of keeping God and prayer in the fabric of America. It isn't a subject new to her. She's consistently been an outspoken and articulate voice to youth on the subject of prayer and Christian faith and values agenda in America. She's been equally outspoken on her love of her adopted homeland.

Asked about God's role today in America, St. James noted: "One by one attempts are being made to dim the light of God in America. We see it everywhere around us--from removing prayer from schools and taking the Ten Commandments off public display, to attempts to take God off of U.S. currency and out of the Pledge of Allegiance. I encourage people in America--and particularly my generation--to pray and seek God--two of the very foundations on which America was built."

Making a taped television appearance yesterday on CBN-TV's 700 Club St. James was asked by interviewer Scott Ross if she found it odd America is being called to prayer by an Australian filling the role of spokesperson for National Day of Prayer.

Rebecca noted: "The National Day of Prayer organizers saw that unless we get pro active in America in educating young people on the importance of prayer there won't be any prayer warriors in this next generation and America will have a chance of 18;falling from the inside out' because of a lack of prayer. I'm very passionate about speaking to young people about God's way and how wonderful He is and about prayer. That's why I was chosen for this role-although I feel very unworthy."

For additional resources and full list of events being held throughout the U.S. tomorrow in observance of the May 4th National Day of Prayer, visit: nationaldayofprayer.com.

News: "Charlie Hall joins new fight to end war" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-04-29T22:52:00.000-07:00

Who: Charlie Hall is joining thousands of people around the world in a new approach to ending a devastating war abroad – they’ll take it lying down.

What: Global Night Commute - Invisible Children Inc., an organization committed to ending the war in Northern Uganda where children are forced to fight as soldiers, has organized a Global Night Commute. By lying down, thousands are joining the invisible children in northern Uganda, and demanding that our government put an end to the longest running war in Africa, and one of the worst crises in the world today.

When: April 29, 2006

Where: 130 cities around the globe.

Charlie Hall and his band will be participating in their hometown of Oklahoma City, along with many members of their church and community. The gathering will be held on the south lawn of the Capitol Building, 2300 N Lincoln Blvd #212, Oklahoma City, OK.

sixstepsrecords/Sparrow artist-worshipper Charlie Hall released his critically-acclaimed Flying Into Daybreak January 24. The album is a welcomed conversation in the world of modern worship. Steeped in community as Worship Pastor at Bridgeway Community in Oklahoma City, OK, Hall also partnered with the non-profit, Invisible Children, to create his first video from Flying Into Daybreak. The video features footage from the Invisible Children: rough cut documentary that tells the story of the unseen effects of a 20-year war on the children of Northern Uganda.

Video links for Charlie Hall & Invisible Children:

Quicktime - Real - Windows 100 - Windows 300

For more information on Global Night Commute and Invisible Children, Inc., visit invisiblechildren.com. For more information on Charlie Hall visit CharlieHall.com.

[Note from Will: The video links were not provided. In the source article, the links are plain text. Sorry.]

News: "George Huff on Entertainment Weekly" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-04-21T22:50:00.000-07:00

George Huff was recently featured on EntertainmentWeekly.com as part of an article about past American Idol contestants.

Check out the link below to see the feature of George and other past American Idol stars today at Entertainment Weekly's website: http://www.ew.com/ew/report/0,6115,1183192_3||266575|1_0_,00.html.

News: "Keeping up with Mat Kearney" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-04-21T22:37:00.000-07:00

Mat's album is finally in stores! "Nothing Left to Lose is a real, complete expression of where I've been and where I'm going. I feel strongly about the last few songs that made their way onto the record. I would put my money on any of the songs," Mat recently told Billboard. Nothing Left To Lose is in stores everywhere, or order online at FreshReleases.com.

New Website

Mat's site has just re-launched with a brand new design. Check out the site and updated journal entries from Mat at http://www.matkearney.com.

Border's In-Store Appearance Announced

Mat will be performing at Borders Books and Music on: 4/22 New York City - Store # 228: 576 Second Avenue, Manhattan, NY. Time: 2pm local time.

Mat will be meeting fans and signing copies of Nothing Left To Lose after the show. Be sure not to miss these unique performances. Arrive early, as space will be limited.

Win A Trip To See Mat in New York City

You could win a trip for two to see Mat play in New York City in June. There are tons of great prizes in this contest:

The Grand Prize includes:

Two tickets to see Mat Kearney's June concert in New York City
Two round trip tickets to New York City Hotel
Accommodations at the legendary Waldorf Astoria hotel
Transportation to and from the concert - rock and roll style Meet and Greet with Mat Kearney Nothing Left To Lose autographed CD

Second Place Prize:

Twenty five (25) Winners will receive an autographed Nothing Left To Lose CD Third Place Prizes:

Third Place Prize:

Ten (10) Winners will receive a Mat Kearney poster and sticker Check out BuzzTone.com/MatKearney, and Good Luck.

Mat Featured On AOL Breakers

Starting this month, Mat will be featured as part of AOL's exciting "Breakers" feature. Breakers showcases the best up-and-coming talent from around the country. Mat's page already includes a behind-the-scenes video and exclusive photos and it will be updated over the coming months with a live performance and other exclusive material. Check out AOL Breakers at: http://music.aol.com/artists/breakers.

More Tour Dates Announced

Mat's first set of headlining dates for 2006 is on sale now! The tour will start in the Northwest and work its way around the country. Be sure to get your tickets early and come out to see us. Full details on each show are available at http://www.matkearney.com.

Tour with Matt Wertz

April 19th Philadelphia - North Star
April 20th Vienna - Jammin' Java
April 21th Boston - Axis
April 22th New York - Knitting Factory
April 23th Charlottesville - Starr Hill Music Hall
April 25th Atlanta - The Loft
April 27th Houston - Warehouse Live
April 28th Austin - Antone's Nightclub
April 29th Dallas - Gypsy Tea Room & Ballroom Headlining Tour
April 30th Baltimore - WTMD show at Creative Alliance's Patterson Theater
May 9th Boise - Bourbon Street Saloon
May 10th Portland - Aladdin Theater
May 11th Eugene - WOW Hall
May 12th Seattle - Chop Suey
May 16th San Francisco - Cafe Du Nord
May 18th Los Angeles - Hotel Cafe
May 20th Tucson - Club Congress
May 21th Phoenix - Modified
May 24th Boulder - Fox Theatre
May 28th Nashville - 3rd & Lindsley
May 30th Chicago - Schubas
June 1st Indianapolis - Birdy's
June 3rd Madison - Majestic Theatre
June 5 Grand Rapids - Intersection
June 6 Detroit - Magic Bag
June 8 Baltimore - Eight By Ten
June 10 Burlinton- Higher Ground
June 11 Philadelphia- North Star
June 12 New York- Mercury Lounge
June 14 Isle of Palms, SC - Windjammer

News: "The Afters at 8th and Ocean" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-04-21T22:34:00.000-07:00

If you watch that show on MTV called 8th and Ocean you probably already know about the theme song, but if not...

"Beautiful Love" by The Afters just so happens to be it! Get the song now at iTunes: Beautiful Love.

And you can take a listen to the song on their media player.

For more information and a list of current tour dates, visit TheAfters.com.

News: "Natalie Grant on Fox News" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-04-14T22:32:00.000-07:00

NEW YORK - Curb recording artist and 2006 GMA Music Award-winning Female Vocalist of the Year Natalie Grant is slated to appear on the FOX News Channel this Tuesday, April 18. She is scheduled to be a guest on the network's "DaySide" program, speaking with co-hosts Juliet Huddy and Mike Jerrick about her music and recent Dove Award win. "DaySide" airs weekdays at 1 pm ET.

For further information, visit nataliegrant.com.

News: "37th GMA Music Awards this weekend and more on iTunes..." by Brenten Gilbert

2006-04-14T22:29:00.000-07:00

The 37th Annual GMA Music Awards will be televised in national syndication starting this weekend and running through May 21. Central City Productions of Chicago, Ill., is handling first run syndication through network affiliates and independent stations nationwide, with an expected audience reach of 70 percent of U.S. television households.

A list of scheduled air dates and times can be found at www.gmamusicawards.com and will be updated as information becomes available and as more markets and stations are cleared to air the show. For the current list of those markets that are scheduled to air the 37th Annual GMA Music Awards this weekend and next week visit http://www.gmamusicawards.com/newsroom/synd-list.cfm.

Also beginning later this month those who watch the 37th Annual GMA Music Awards will have the opportunity to download two of the performed songs through iTunes. Starting April 25, iTunes will host an entire room to showcase this year's performers and Dove Award recipients. The two songs that will be available for download include the special acoustic performance done in honor of Steven Curtis Chapman receiving his 50th Dove Award, which featured Casting Crowns' Mark Hall, Third Day's Mac Powell, Jeremy Camp and David Crowder Band's David Crowder. The other single available for download is Artist and Male Vocalist of the Year recipient Chris Tomlin performing "How Great is Our God/How Great Thou Art," which ended the show. During these performances a message will be shown on screen directing viewers about the tracks' availability on iTunes. A portion of the proceeds from the two singles will go to benefit the GMA Foundation.

News: "Keeping up with Passion" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-04-14T22:26:00.000-07:00

(Nashville, TN) April 12, 2006 – sixstepsrecords’ ninth Passion project, Passion: Everything Glorious, released April 4 to wide critical acclaim and became an immediate best seller. Recording the highest street week sales ever for a Passion recording, the album claimed the No. 1 position on the SoundScan Christian Retail sales chart. The album also landed at No. 69 on the Billboard Top 200 Chart and became the second highest full album debut in the history of EMI CMG digital releases. Only sixstepsrecords’ David Crowder Band’s “A Collision” sold more units in its first week at digital retail.

Following eight critically acclaimed Passion recordings that have sold over one-and-a half million units, Passion: Everything Glorious features brand new music recorded live from the main stage at the Passion 06 gathering held Jan. 2-5 in Nashville. The recording features 13 tracks and brand new songs from Chris Tomlin, David Crowder Band, Charlie Hall, Matt Redman and more, joined by the voices of the 18,000 in attendance and representing students from all 50 states, 20 countries. Appearing on the album are four exclusive songs that will only be heard on Passion: Everything Glorious. Exclusive songs include “Glorious” and “Party” from Chris Tomlin, “Everything Glorious” from David Crowder Band, and Matt Redman’s “You Never Let Go.”

“I am thrilled with the sales success of Passion: Everything Glorious, and for our retail partners who resonate with Passion and its vision to reach college campuses for God,” says David Crace, EMI CMG Label Group, SVP Marketing and Artist Development. “This music is extremely relevant to college kids, but also resonates with anyone who enjoys modern worship music. We’re seeing the fan base grow incrementally with each sixsteps record.”

The day before the release of Passion: Everything Glorious, Passion Conferences and sixstepsrecords was honored by the Gospel Music Association with a prestigious Impact Award. The Impact Award is presented to a non-artist individual or organization that has made a significant contribution to the gospel music industry. The full story about the award can be found at: http://www.gospelmusic.org/newsmedia/pressRoom_detail.aspx?iid=14379&tid=33

Following the release of Passion: Everything Glorious, the Passion/sixstepsrecords family of lead-worshipers received an amazing 10 GMA Music Awards, 13 Dove Award trophies in all during the 37th Annual GMA Music Awards April 5. Chris Tomlin was named Artist and Male Vocalist of the Year, and received five awards total. David Crowder received three awards with his band, and three for his production and songwriting credits. Louie Giglio and Matt Redman each received one award. For the full list of awards, go to gmamusicawards.com.

News: "Superchic[k] at PureVolume..." by Brenten Gilbert

2006-04-14T22:24:00.000-07:00

Lots of big things have been happening for Superchic[k] these days. Check out Purevolume.com to see them featured under the "Pure Pics" section. Their PureVolume site also has songs available to download for free. The band also promises to release a big news announcement soon.

For more information, stay tuned to: Superchick.net.

News: "Creation Fest and HearItFirst.com Battle of the Bands" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-04-14T22:20:00.000-07:00

Medford, NJ (April 11th, 2006) – Band registration for the 2006 Creation Fest/hearitfirst.com Indiescovery Ultimate Battle of the Bands contest is nearing a close, and Fan voting is about to begin.

“We have received a great response to the contest,” says, Nick Kulb, VP of Marketing for the Creation Festivals. “The number of submissions to this point has exceeded our expectations, and is sure to grow even more before next week’s cut off.”

Through April 14th, independent and previously unsigned artists are invited to submit an original song in mp3 format, along with two photos and a short biography via the Indiescovery section on hearitfirst.com. Each entry must also indicate a preference of battling it out at Creation Northeast in Pennsylvania on June 30th or at Creation Northwest in Washington on July 28th. All submissions will be posted on the hearitfirst.com website and visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite performers April 15th – May 15th. The online votes will then be tabulated and the top three artists for each festival will be determined.

The six semi-finalists, three for Creation Northeast and three for Creation Northwest, will have the opportunity to perform live during the Friday night Late Night Café Ultimate Battle of the Band competition, hosted by Sparrow Records artist Sanctus Real. The winner will be chosen by the audience, with the crowd favorite receiving the loudest response as measured by an applause meter.

The Ultimate winner at each festival will receive a Saturday morning opening slot on the X2006 Fringe Stage and the opportunity to record a demo in Nashville, TN for a major Christian record label.

For more information about the Indiescovery Ultimate Battle of the Bands, to make a submission or to vote on your favorite artist, please visit http://www.hearitfirst.com/genres/indiescovery.aspx.

To learn more about Creation Northeast and Northwest, to view the complete program, or for information on purchasing tickets to the event, please visit CreationFest.com and choose the link to the Festival you would like to attend.

News: "Chris Tomlin Soars With Five Dove Awards on Gospel Music’s Biggest Night"

2006-04-07T11:59:00.000-07:00

NASHVILLE MUSIC CITY – April 5th, 2006 – Artist/songwriter Chris Tomlin became the 2006 Dove Award Artist of the Year tonight, while earning four other Doves at the 37th Annual GMA Music Awards, announced John W. Styll, president of the Gospel Music Association (GMA) and executive producer of the GMA Music Awards.

The GMA Music Awards is gospel music's biggest night of the year, where top artists from every style of gospel music come together for a night of music and celebration as the GMA bestows gospel music's highest honor – the Dove Award. Hosted by Rebecca St. James and Kirk Franklin, the GMA Music Awards were presented live at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville. The awards show will air in national syndication April 15th to May 21st, 2006.

Tomlin was one of 37 different artists who won Dove Awards, including Steven Curtis Chapman, who received his 50th trophy, an accomplishment unmatched by any other major award show winner. Tomlin’s co-writer and producer Ed Cash was one of the evening’s other big winners, earning four Doves including Producer of the Year. David Crowder Band and lead member David Crowder were three-time winners along with their producer Tedd T.

"There were many spirit-filled and joyful moments during this year's GMA Music Awards, and it is always great to see new faces emerge alongside already established artists, linking the past to the present and offering a glimpse into the future of gospel music," said Styll. "Nowhere was that more apparent than in the poignant symbolism of Chris Tomlin's arriving into the spotlight as this year's most honored artist in gospel music on the same night that Steven Curtis Chapman reached the newer artists as he did when he invited Chris to tour with him last year. The storyline of these two artists has now been forever connected by their achievements tonight."

In the "overall" categories, Dove Awards were presented:

Artist of the Year – Chris Tomlin
Male Vocalist of the Year – Chris Tomlin
Female Vocalist of the Year – Natalie Grant
Group of the Year – Casting Crowns
Songwriter of the Year – Christa Wells
Song of the Year – “How Great is Our God” (Chris Tomlin, Jesse Reeves, Ed Cash)
New Artist of the Year – The Afters

Tomlin's five Dove Awards include Artist and Male Vocalist of the Year. “How Great is Our God,” a song he wrote from his RIAA Gold-certified CD Arriving, won in both the Song of the Year and Worship Song categories, awards that also went to his co-writers Jesse Reeves and Ed Cash. Tomlin's fifth Dove Award was for his collaboration on the Special Event Album of the Year Music Inspired by the Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.

David Crowder Band also earned a Dove Award for the Chronicles of Narnia project, along with trophies for Rock/Contemporary Album for A Collision, and Rock/Contemporary Recorded Song for the CD’s lead single, “Here is Our King.” Band leader David Crowder's three Dove Awards came for his production and songwriting efforts. Natalie Grant's Female Vocalist of the Year Award is her first Dove honor and Songwriter of the Year Christa Wells earned that trophy thanks to the song "Held," which Natalie recorded on her latest project, Awaken. Casting Crowns' Dove for Group of the Year is the band's second consecutive in that category. Texas-based rock quartet The Afters received their New Artist of the Year Dove Award just one week after the band was invited to perform its hit song "Beautiful Love" on MTV's "TRL."

Perhaps because of gospel music's inherent diversity in musical styles, unexpected artists often show up as Dove Award winners. This year is no different. Reigning "American Idol" Carrie Underwood won her first Dove for Country Recorded Song for "Jesus Take the Wheel." Backstreet Boy Brian Littrell made his first appearance on the list of Dove Award recipients with a nod for Inspirational Recorded Song for his recording of the Michael English classic "In Christ Alone," and the Grammy Awards' most honored female artist, Alison Krauss, captured a Dove with her band Union Station for Bluegrass Recorded Song for "Living Prayer."

Gospel music's diversity was also on display with rousing and stylistically distinct music performances. Rising stars Israel & New Breed and Martha Munizzi opened the Dove Awards show, which also included performances by Kutless, Third Day, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Mark Schultz, Grant, Sawyer Brown and The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir. Franklin also performed and St. James did duet with all-girl rock band BarlowGirl.

One of the evening's highlights was a surprise performance honoring Chapman for his 50th Dove Award, which he accepted for Special Event Album of the Year on behalf of all the artists on the Chronicles of Narnia project. Gospel music legends Andraé Crouch, Michael Sweet and Bryan Duncan provided testimonies to Chapman while young artists Jeremy Camp, Crowder, Casting Crowns' Mark Hall and Third Day's Mac Powell performed an acoustic set of classic Chapman Dove-winning music. Chapman was unaware of the tribute and was visibly moved by the outpouring of affection from his musical colleagues.

Awards were handed out in 42 categories. Dove Awards go to recordings released during the eligibility year of November 1, 2004 through October 31, 2005 and voted on by the members of the GMA.

The 37th Annual GMA Music Awards were produced by Steve Gilreath for SGTV, Inc. Walgreens has signed on as a lead sponsor for the 37th Annual GMA Music Awards television broadcast, while the American Bible Society is the designated charity of the GMA Music Awards. The awards will be televised in national syndication starting on Easter weekend April 15 through May 21. Central City Productions of Chicago, Ill., is handling first run syndication through network affiliates and independent stations nationwide, with an expected audience reach of 70 percent of U.S. television households. The markets that have cleared are listed on the GMA Music Awards website (www.gmamusicawards.com) and as new markets are added, they will be updated there.

Founded in 1964, the 4,000-member Gospel Music Association (www.gospelmusic.org) is dedicated to exposing, promoting and celebrating the gospel through music. The GMA represents all styles of gospel music including contemporary pop, rock, urban gospel, praise & worship, Southern gospel, country and children’s gospel music. The GMA produces the GMA Music Awards, which recognizes achievement in all genres of gospel music and are voted on by members of the GMA.

# # #

GOSPEL MUSIC ASSOCIATION'S 37th ANNUAL DOVE AWARD WINNERS

ARTIST OF THE YEAR Chris Tomlin
MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR Chris Tomlin
FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR Natalie Grant
GROUP OF THE YEAR Casting Crowns
NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR The Afters
SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR Christa Wells
SONG OF THE YEAR song title; writer; publisher (award to the writer and publisher) “How Great is Our God”; Chris Tomlin, Jesse Reeves, Ed Cash; Worshiptogether.com Songs (ASCAP), sixsteps Music (ASCAP), Alletrope Music (BMI)
PRODUCER OF THE YEAR Ed Cash

Dove Awards in Recorded Song Categories are given to the Artist and Songwriter, if other than the Artist.

RAP/HIP HOP RECORDED SONG (song; album; artist; writer; label) “Trainwreck”; Bullet; Mat Kearney; Mat Kearney, Robert Marvin; Inpop Records
ROCK RECORDED SONG (song; album; artist; writer; label) “The Slam”; Welcome to Diverse City; tobyMac featuring T-Bone; Toby McKeehan, Christopher Stevens, Joe Weber, T-Bone; Forefront Records
ROCK/CONTEMPORARY RECORDED SONG (song; album; artist; writer; label) “Here is Our King”; A Collision; David Crowder Band; David Crowder; sixsteps Records/Sparrow Records
POP/CONTEMPORARY RECORDED SONG (song; album; artist; writer; label) “Cry Out to Jesus”; Wherever You Are; Third Day; Mac Powell, Tai Anderson, Brad Avery, David Carr, Mark Lee; Essential Records
INSPIRATIONAL RECORDED SONG (song; album; artist; writer; label) “In Christ Alone”; WOW #1's; Brian Littrell; Don Koch, Shawn Craig; Reunion Records
SOUTHERN GOSPEL RECORDED SONG (song; album; artist; writer; label) “Long As I Got King Jesus”; Live in NYC; Brian Free & Assurance; James Cleveland; Daywind Music Group tie “Through the Fire”; Live at Brooklyn Tabernacle; Crabb Family featuring Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir; Gerald Crabb; Daywind Music Group
BLUEGRASS RECORDED SONG (song; album; artist; writer; label) “Living Prayer”; Lonely Runs Both Ways; Alison Krauss & Union Station; Ronald Block; Rounder Records
COUNTRY RECORDED SONG (song; album; artist; writer; label) “Jesus, Take the Wheel”; Some Hearts; Carrie Underwood; Brett James, Hillary Lindsey, Gordie Sampson; Arista/Arista Nashville/19 Recordings
URBAN RECORDED SONG (song; album; artist; writer; label) “Looking for You”; Hero; Kirk Franklin; Kirk Franklin, Patrice Rushen, Charles Mims, Shereelynn Brown, Fred Washington; Fo Yo Soul/Zomba
TRADITIONAL GOSPEL RECORDED SONG (song; album; artist; writer; label) “God Blocked It”; One Church Project; Kurt Carr; Kurt Carr; Gospo Centric/Zomba
CONTEMPORARY GOSPEL RECORDED SONG (song; album; artist; writer; label) “Not Forgotten”; Alive In South Africa; Israel & New Breed; Israel Houghton, Aaron W. Lindsey; Integrity Gospel
WORSHIP SONG (song; writer; publisher - awards given to writer and publisher) “How Great is Our God”; Chris Tomlin, Jesse Reeves, Ed Cash; Worshiptogether.com Songs, sixsteps Music, Alletrope Music

Dove Awards in Album Categories are given to the Artist and Producer, if other than the Artist.

RAP/HIP HOP ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Behind the Musik; KJ-52; Aaron Sprinkle, Todd Collins, Tedd T., KJ-52; BEC Recordings/Uprok Records
ROCK ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Mmhmm; Relient K; Mark Lee Townsend, Matthew Theissen; Gotee Records/Capitol Records
ROCK/CONTEMPORARY ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) A Collision; David Crowder Band; David Crowder, Jason Solley, Mike Hogan, Jack Parker, Mike Dodson, Jeremy Bush, Tedd T.; sixsteps Records/Sparrow Records
POP/CONTEMPORARY ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Lifesong; Casting Crowns; Mark A. Miller; Beachstreet Records/Reunion Records
INSPIRATIONAL ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Hymned; Bart Millard; Brown Bannister, Bart Millard; Simple Records/INO Records tie Rock of Ages...Hymns & Faith; Amy Grant; Brown Bannister, Vince Gill; Word Records
SOUTHERN GOSPEL ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Live at Brooklyn Tabernacle; Crabb Family; Jason Crabb, Adam Crabb, Aaron Crabb, Kelly Bowling; Daywind Music Group
BLUEGRASS ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) One Rose; Lewis Family; Wayne Haun; Thoroughbred Records
COUNTRY ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Glory Train; Randy Travis; Kyle Lehning; Word Records
URBAN ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Hero; Kirk Franklin; Kirk Franklin, Chris Godbey, Shaun Martin; Fo Yo Soul/Zomba
TRADITIONAL GOSPEL ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Atom Bomb; Blind Boys of Alabama; John Chelew; Narada/EMI Gospel
CONTEMPORARY GOSPEL ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Mary Mary; Mary Mary; Warryn Campbell, Dontae Winslow, Nisan Stewart, Steve Huff, Charlie Beveal, Kenny Beveal, Jazz Nixon; Sony Urban/Columbia/My Block
PRAISE & WORSHIP ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Blessed Be Your Name The Songs of Matt Redman Vol. 1; Matt Redman, Nathan Nockels; Sparrow Records/sixstepsrecords
INSTRUMENTAL ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Life; Andy Hunter; Tedd T., Andy Hunter; Sparrow Records
CHILDREN'S MUSIC ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Absolute Modern Worship for Kids; Various; Craig Adams; Fervent Records
SPANISH LANGUAGE ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Leonardo; Leonardo; Isaac Hernandez, Leonardo Villanueva; Lamon Records
SPECIAL EVENT ALBUM (album; artist; producer; label) Music Inspired by the Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe; Jeremy Camp, Steven Curtis Chapman, David Crowder Band, Delirious?, Bethany Dillon, Jars of Clay, Kutless, Nichole Nordeman, Rebecca St. James, tobyMac, Chris Tomlin; Ed Cash, Steven Curtis Chapman, David Crowder, Andy Dodd, Sam Gibson, Dan Haseltine, Charlie Lowell, Steve Mason, Matt Odmark, Jay Joyce, Shaun Shenkel, Aaron Sprinkle, Toby McKeehan, Adam Watts, Christopher Stevens, Mitch Dane; Sparrow Records
MUSICAL (title; creator; publisher - award given to creator and publisher) Grace That Amazes; Claire Cloninger, Lari Goss; Word Music
YOUTH/CHILDREN'S MUSICAL (title; creator; publisher - award given to creator and publisher) His Renown; Steven V. Taylor, Louie Giglio; Word Music
CHORAL COLLECTION (title; creator; publisher - award given to creator and publisher) Seasons of Praise; Carol Cymbala; Brooklyn Tabernacle Music
RECORDED MUSIC PACKAGING (product; art director; graphic artist; illustrator/photographer; label - award given to art director, graphic artist, illustrator/photographer if other than artist) Redemption Songs (Jars of Clay); Stephanie McBrayer, Tim Parker; Jimmy Abegg; Essential Records
SHORT FORM MUSIC VIDEO (title; artist; director; producer; production company; label - award given to artist, director, producer if other than artist) “Stars”; Switchfoot; Coleen Haynes; Scott Speer; HIS Productions; Sparrow Records/Columbia Records
LONG FORM MUSIC VIDEO (title; artist; director; producer; production company; label - award given to artist, director, producer if other than artist) A Night of Stories & Songs; Mark Schultz; Ken Carpenter; Franklin Films; Word Records

News: "LA Symphony 'Driven by the Facts'" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-03-31T11:53:00.000-08:00

(Nashville, Tenn.) March 28th, 2006 -- Hip-hop collective, L.A. Symphony will hit the road on the “Driven By The Facts Tour” this April 15th – May 26th with a total of 35 shows. The tour, sponsored by myspace.com and World Vision, will criss-cross the nation from Los Angeles and Seattle on to Florida and ending up back in Los Angeles for the final show and party at The Knitting Factory on May 26th. Avatar/Universal recording artist Deux Process will be the opening act on the tour, with surprise guests slated for the final show date. L.A. Symphony is just finishing up the “Hawaiian Islands Tour” which ran from March 23rd to March 29th. This tour was also sponsored by myspace.com.

At radio, L.A. Symphony’s “Timeless” from their current Disappear Here album is at the number one spot at Rhythmic Radio. The single “Dance Like” has also just been serviced to Christian radio. Their video “Timeless” is also simultaneously being added nationwide, including heavy rotation in all Journeys and American Eagle retail stores nationwide. It is also receiving play on MTV On Demand.

Other tour plans for L.A. Symphony include three Acquire The Fire appearances this spring, as well as performing at the Youth Specialties/National Youth Workers Conference in both Washington D.C. and Los Angeles. This summer L.A. Symphony will do a mini-tour with BEC recording artist Manafest. The group is newly signed to booking agency Topshelf Music.

L.A. Symphony’s Disappear Here marks the group’s second release on Gotee Records. Their discography includes 2003’s The End Is Now (Gotee/Basement), as well as the independently- released The Baloney EP in 2001, and Composition #1 (Eartube Empire) in 1999. Call It What You Want, was completed and set to release on the now-defunct Squint label in 2000, but was never officially released to retail, although a leaked version made the rounds on the Internet.

L.A. Symphony is comprised of MCs/Producers FLYNN, Sharlok Poems, Joey the Jerk, UNO Mas, and Cookbook. The conglomerate, who delivers thought-provoking lyrics with both passion and humor, has shared the stage with names like Jurassic 5 and Black Eyed Peas. L.A. Symphony has played major events like the NBA/Yahoo Rhythm and Rims Tour, the Van’s Warped Tour (Los Angeles show), and The Night Hip-Hop Stole Christmas. Disappear Here nabbed a Top 10 spot on CMJ’s 2005 year end college hip-hop radio charts.

For more information on L.A. Symphony, check out the official artist website at LASymphony.com.

CD Spotlight: Nothing is Sound by Switchfoot

2006-03-21T23:12:00.000-08:00

Bio: On this follow-up to The Beautiful Letdown, frontman Jon Foreman provides more of the deeply intriguing and overwhelmingly honest lyrics that helped Switchfoot win the 2005 Dove Award for Artist of the Year. Nothing is Sound features the hit song "Stars", as well as "Lonely Nation", "Golden", and others.

News: "Early Success for Shawn McDonald's Ripen" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-03-16T11:50:00.000-08:00

Nashville, TN (March 15, 2006) Shawn McDonald has a lot to smile about these days. RIPEN, the critically acclaimed second studio record from the Seattle resident, is reaping the benefits of years spent building a musical dialogue with fans while offering a unique approach to touring, recording and all things creative. The end result reads like a laundry list of successes for an artist who spent six years touring as an independent artist and includes a notable spot at #2 on Billboard Heatseekers Chart, #116 on Billboard’s Top 200, #1 at Christian retail and #2 overall Christian/Gospel Digital Album Chart.

McDonald’s significant numbers quadruple the first week sales of his first effort, Simply Nothing, and support critical opinion that Shawn’s musical integrity has a substantial impact on current musical culture. RIPEN’s success can also be attributed to McDonald’s truly grassroots approach to engaging his fans. Whether it is on tour or through MySpace.com, McDonald has added over 10,000 new “friends” since the beginning of 2006. Shawn McDonald is currently celebrating with those friends on his first headlining tour of the US, which includes sell out crowds in his home state of Washington.

RIPEN – Shawn McDonald More than 9,000 units sold during debut week (released on March 7) Quadrupled the first week sales of Simply Nothing #2 Billboard Heatseekers #116 Billboard Top 200 #1 Christian Retail chart #3 Overall Christian chart #2 on the overall Christian/Gospel Digital Albums Chart #33 on the overall Digital Albums Chart #1 download on iTunes Inspirational and has remained in that spot this week. Reached #18 on iTunes overall album chart and remains in top 40 overall Album Chart to date

For more information, visit: ShawnMcDonaldMusic.com or MySpace.com/ShawnMcDonald.

News: "New single from Rebecca St. James" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-03-16T11:47:00.000-08:00

Rebecca’s new single—“You Are Loved”—is launching at radio and with it comes a exclusive ‘behind the scenes’ welcome from Rebecca to visit her in the studio for a special acoustic performance of the song!

Says Rebecca of the new single:

“This is a song that’s very close to me. It’s written about a childhood friend of mine that I grew up with in Sydney. I fell out of contact with him after leaving our Christian school to move to a different state. I ran into a mutual friend years later and asked how our friend, Daniel, was doing. This friend told me that Daniel had really fallen away from God and that he’d been iabusing drugs as well. As I was thinking about what I wanted to write about on this album, he very randomly came to mind—and I felt that this ‘random’ thought was actually placed there by God. I had the concept… ‘If I had one chance to tell Daniel something, what would I say to him?’ The message I felt God really laid on my heart was to tell him…’You are loved.’ This is a song for the prodigals—which is all of us. God is the father that has His arms open wide waiting for us. He wants us to run towards Him and He will run toward us. It’s a song of hope and a message my generation needs to hear. ‘No matter where you’ve been and what you’ve done…you are loved.’

“From this song came the album title—and really the key theme of the project. I think I’ve come to realize, yes, we need to stand in awe of God and be blown away by His power. But it’s really His kindness and His love that draws us to Him and into a relationship with Him—His love makes us desire to know Him and love Him in return. That is for me the most important message I need to share—through this album and in my life. From how I relate in my relationships with others to what I say onstage –the message is ‘we are extravagantly loved by God.’”

Check out the video preview:

Windows Media RealMedia Video

[Note by Will: The source article did not have links to the video. Just the text above. Sorry.]

News: "Hyper Static Union Tours the West Coast" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-03-16T11:44:00.000-08:00

Hyper Static Union's Shawn Lewis and Ray Burnham recently spent time touring the West Coast visiting a number of Christian radio stations. Signed to Third Day's Consuming Fire Productions and set to release on RKT Music, Hyper Static gave listeners a sneak preview of their May 9 debut, Lifegiver, with on air performances of the band's first CHR/Rock single, "Overhead," and the upcoming AC single "Praying for Sunny Days." Lewis also threw in a cover tune from the band's live show, his version of Stevie Wonder's "Superstition." The live performances at Seattle's Spirit 105.3 FM along with interviews with HSU and producer Mac Powell are available for listening at: Spirit1053.com.

News: "HolyHipHop.com passes 100k digital downloads" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-03-09T11:39:00.000-08:00

ATLANTA. March 8, 2006 HolyHipHop.Com announced today, as a part of its ongoing global Digital Music Initiatives, that the 100,000 Digital Downloads' Milestone has been reached with digital music downloads by aficionados of Holy Hip Hop Trax, fueling global interest and demand for physical CD's and genre mainstream awareness and visibility. HolyHipHop.com focusing digital platform on video in 2006.

"Steve Jobs and Apple Computer are now selling one-hundred (100) iPods every sixty (60) seconds, with over 44 million iPods now in use worldwide and growing at a phenomenal rate, so a future where music is delivered and consumed digitally is no longer just a dream but becoming more and more of a pressing reality each and every passing minute, affecting each and every genre and classification of music worldwide. Although Mr. Jobs and Apple are relentless in their pursuit of digital music utopia, during this sea of change, the greatest opportunity is for emcees, distributors and labels to reinvent the CD as the most: (1) reliable; and (2) secure medium for the masses, who either: (a) are satisfied with the consistent quality of CD/DVD technologies; or (b) are uneasy about the security and long-term durability of digital music files, thereby demanding a more permanent medium to preserve collections of treasured titles.

Through 100,000 Digital Downloads and climbing, HolyHipHop.Com is focused to confirm in 2006 and 2007: (1) that there can be a direct, positive correlation between downloads and demand for physical CD's, as customers who like a particular emcee may be apt to also want to have the actual music on CD, as a part of a physical collection to supplement/safeguard digital music files; and (2) the more digital files that are in the marketplace and being shared across multiple platforms (web, tv, radio, iPod, etc.), the more generally visible an emerging music genre can become, as music is talked about more, shared globally and for those who can not afford or are fearful of or reluctant to adopt Digital Music technologies, a keen interest in having the physical CD of a liked emcee becomes even more critical.

To the over 2000 active Ministers of the Gospel, continue to march forward (weathering and overcoming adversity), remain steadfast and focused on advancing ministry and goodwill outside of the four walls of the Church, in the streets, schools and community where it is needed and demanded the most - now more than ever before. The time is right and the time is now.

To our global alliance partners, radio pd's, djs, retail-stores, magazines, ministers, churches, websites, supporters and friends who are participating in, advancing, speaking about or keeping a pulse on the movement, we appreciate all that you do in sustaining momentum and visibility for the cause that is now accelerating and gaining momentum worldwide; and HolyHipHop.Com remains focused and committed to the global mission to Take the Gospel to the Streets, through the global proliferation of Street Ministry Evangelism, by any means necessary. May GOD BLESS You Always," said Abe Manear, General Manager, HolyHipHop.Com and CEO, FullEffects Digital Media.

For more information on the Global movement to take the Gospel to the Streets, log on to the Internet at: HolyHipHop.Com.

News: "Aaron Shust storms the radio waves" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-03-09T11:35:00.000-08:00

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -"My Savior My God," the second Top 10 radio single from Atlanta-based worship leader Aaron Shust's highly anticipated debut project, Anything Worth Saying, has experienced overwhelming listener response resulting in a rapid climb up the Christian radio charts. The single is currently at #6 and was last week's most added song on R&R's Monitor AC radio chart.

Listener response led Sue Wilson, program director of Cleveland's 95.5 The Fish to state, "Every once in a while, a song comes along that makes an emotional connection with our listeners. 'My Savior My God' is one of those songs. When we play it, the studio phones ring and the e-mails come in. Not since 'I Can Only Imagine' have we had this kind of response. "

Shust recently spent three hours in the K-LOVE studios, co-hosting their live morning show with Jon and Sherry Rivers as well as performing three songs live. During the course of the show, Rivers played "My Savior My God" three times, once each hour.

Shust recently spent time touring as the opening artist on the fall leg of Nichole Nordeman's "Brave" Tour. When speaking of Aaron's involvement in the tour, Nordeman said "Part of my excitement stems from having newcomer Aaron Shust as part of this tour. I have no doubt that audiences will share my new enthusiasm for his music. He's the real deal."

For the last five years, Aaron Shust has served as a full-time staff member and worship leader at Perimeter Church, a progressive, 27-year-old congregation in Atlanta. Beyond that community, Aaron leads worship throughout the United States at new churches, adult retreats and youth camps, placing his songwriting fingers firmly on the pulse of the church's devotion. He recently announced an exclusive management agreement with Blanton Harrell Cooke and Corzine, and joins the company's roster of best-selling, award-winning artists and authors such as Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Frank Peretti, Joy Williams, Bebo Norman and Point of Grace.

Shust is currently preparing to tour this spring as part of Compassion International's "An Evening of Compassion," as well as an opening slot on tour with best-selling worship artists Shane & Shane.

For more information on Aaron Shust, please visit AaronShust.com

News: "Shawn McDonald and Warren Barfield tour" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-03-09T11:28:00.000-08:00

Warren Barfield and Shawn McDonald are currently touring the west coast in their own version of March Madness to support their brand new releases, Reach and Ripen, respectively.

Fans of the singer-songwriter style of music should leave the shows quite pleased.

For up-to-date tour stops and more check out: http://www.myspace.com/shawnmcdonald or http://www.myspace.com/warrenbarfield

News: "Rebecca St. James named spokesperson for 2006 'National Day of Prayer'" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-03-02T11:24:00.000-08:00

(Nashville, Tn.) --March 1, 2006-- "Focus On The Family" nationally broadcast radio program-hosted by Dr. James Dobson is scheduled to feature a taped interview with Rebecca St. James on Wednesday, March 1st- heralding the first official national announcement to media that Rebecca has been honored with the appointment as musical ambassador and spokesperson for the 2006 National Day of Prayer, this year being observed on Thursday, May 4th. A major emphasis for Rebecca will be encouraging the support of America's youth.

In Colorado Springs on Tuesday for a concert appearance on her current tour, Rebecca met with Dr. Dobson and executive staff of the NDP at the Focus national headquarters where she taped the radio appearance, talking with Dr. Dobson on the importance of prayer. Rebecca has recorded the official theme song for the National Day of Prayer, with special downloads of the song soon to be made available.

More Information online at: rsjames.com

News: "Delirious? Announces 2006 US tour dates" by Brenten Gilbert

2006-03-02T11:17:00.000-08:00

Delirious? recently announced tour dates for their annual US tour. Included are festivals, events, and crusades as well as a number of dates with Tree63. The band tells fans to prepare to "find yourself face to face with an experience full on passion and power."

Below are the set of dates:

March 23rd 2006 - Clovis, CA
March 24-25 2006 - Battle Cry, San Francisco, CA
March 26th 2006 - Fish Fest, Irvine, CA
March 31st 2006 - St. Peters, MO
April 1st 2006 - Elevation, Owensboro, KY
April 2nd 2006 - Luis Palau Orlando Festival, Orlando FL
April 4th 2006 - St. Joseph, MO
April 5th 2006 - Peoria, Illinois
April 6 2006 - Fairfield, OH
April 7-8 2006 - Battle Cry, Detroit, MI
April 11th 2006 - Clarksburg, WV
April 12th 2006 - Vienna, VA
April 13th 2006 - Williamsville, NY

full details and more dates can be found at: http://www.delirious.co.uk/tournews.htm

News: "Sarah Kelly to appear on 700 Club this Friday" by Greg Webb

2006-03-02T11:15:00.000-08:00

Gotee artist Sarah Kelly is scheduled to appear on The 700 Club on Friday, March 3rd. The show airs live from 9am-10 am EST on ABC Family Channel, and will be rebroadcast at 11pm EST.

The show can also be watched online at www.cbn.com

Sarah Kelly's highly-anticipated sophomore album Where The Past Meets Today is scheduled for a May 16 release.

News: "Crowder, Sufjan, 4th Ave win big during 2nd annual CMC Awards" by Greg Webb

2006-02-23T23:27:00.000-08:00

Progressive hip-hop act 4th Avenue Jones won the the most awards, five in all, as David Crowder Band scored Artist and Album of the Year during the 2nd annual CMCentral Music Awards ceremony on Monday, February 20.

David Crowder Band was also named Praise & Worship Artist of the Year, and the band's critically acclaimed project, A Collision, was awarded Praise & Worship Album of the Year.

4th Avenue Jones was named New Artist of the Year, as well as winning 2 genre-specific awards for their pop hit "Stereo" and 2 more for their hip-hop smash "Take Me Away."

The nominees and winners for the CMCentral Music Awards were chosen by members of the CMCentral.com online Forum, which consist of almost 3,000 artists, musicians, industry personnel, and music fans. Forum members were specifically asked to vote based on artistic creativity, excellence, and integrity.

Other multiple winners included mainstream wunderkind Sufjan Stevens, who was named Male Artist of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Best Christian artist in the mainstream, and Rock/Alternative Album of the Year for his critically lauded project, Illinois.

Natalie Grant, 2005's best-selling female artist, was awarded Female Artist of the Year and Adult Contemporary/Inspirational Vocal Performance, Solo Female for her multi-format smash hit, "Held." The song "Held" and it's writer Christa Wells won two additional awards, the coveted Song of the Year title, as well as Adult Contemporary/Inspirational Song of the Year. Both Wells and Grant accepted their awards with emotional speeches about the song's importance and personal impact on them.

Hip-hop collective Deepspace5 surprised the audience by besting big names like Switchfoot, Relient K, Jars of Clay and David Crowder Band to take the award for Group/Duo/Band of the Year. Deepspace5's critically acclaimed CD Unique, Just Like Everyone Else was also named Hip Hop Album of the Year during the ceremony.

To read the complete ceremony: http://forum.cmcentral.com/index.php?showtopic=40700

Following is a complete list of all winners:

Artist of the Year: David Crowder Band
Album of the Year: A Collision, David Crowder Band (producer: Ed Cash, David Crowder)
Single of the Year: "God Will Lift Up Your Head," Jars of Clay (producer: Jars of Clay)
Song of the Year: "Held," Natalie Grant (songwriter: Christa Wells)
Entertainer of the Year: Relient K
Female Artist of the Year: Natalie Grant
Male Artist of the Year: Sufjan Stevens
Group/Duo/Band of the Year: Deepspace5
New Artist of the Year: 4th Avenue Jones
Producer of the Year: Aaron Sprinkle
Songwriter of the Year: Sufjan Stevens
Best Christian Artist in the Mainstream: Sufjan Stevens
Pop Album of the Year: A Drunkard's Prayer, Over The Rhine (producer: Mahan Kaipa, Over The Rhine)
Pop Song of the Year: "Stereo," 4th Avenue Jones (songwriter: 4th Avenue Jones)
Pop Vocal Performance, Solo Female: Nichole Nordeman, "Brave"
Pop Vocal Performance, Solo Male: (tie) Mat Kearney, "Bullet" and Shaun Groves, "Bless The Lord"
Pop Performance, Group/Duo/Band: 4th Avenue Jones, "Stereo"
Rock Album of the Year: Illinois, Sufjan Stevens (producer: Sufjan Stevens)
Rock Song of the Year: "Paperthin Hymn," Anberlin (songwriter: Anberlin)
Rock Vocal Performance, Solo Female: Plumb, "I Can't Do This"
Rock Vocal Performance, Solo Male: Kevin Max, "Sanctuary"
Rock Performance, Group/Duo/Band : Anberlin, "Paperthin Hymn"
Urban/R&B/Gospel Album of the Year: Mary Mary, Mary Mary (producer: Charlie "CSUN" Bereal, Warryn Campbell, David Delhomme, Steve Huff, Jazz Nixon, Nisan Stewart, Dontae Winslow)
Urban/R&B/Gospel Song of the Year: "Heaven," Mary Mary (songwriter: Mary Mary, Warryn Campbell, Joi Campbell)
Urban/R&B/Gospel Vocal Performance, Solo Female : CeCe Winans, "Pray"
Urban/R&B/Gospel Vocal Performance, Solo Male: Tonex, "Work On Me"
Urban/R&B/Gospel Performance, Group/Duo/Band: DJ Maj featuring Liquid, "Love (So Beautiful)"
Hip Hop Album of the Year: Unique, Just Like Everyone Else, Deepspace5 (producer: Deepspace5)
Hip Hop Song of the Year: "Take Me Away," 4th Avenue Jones (songwriter: 4th Avenue Jones)
Hip Hop Performance, Solo: Listener, "What Would You Do If I'm Not What I'm Supposed To Be"
Hip Hop Performance, Group/Duo/Band: 4th Avenue Jones, "Take Me Away"
Adult Contemporary/Inspirational Album of the Year: (tie) Brave, Nichole Nordeman (producer: Jay Joyce); and The Far Country, Andrew Peterson (producer: Ben Shive)
Adult Contemporary/Inspirational Song of the Year : "Held," Natalie Grant (songwriter: Christa Wells)
Adult Contemporary/Inspirational Vocal Performance, Solo Female: Natalie Grant, "Held"
Adult Contemporary/Inspirational Vocal Performance, Solo Male: Bebo Norman, "Nothing Without You"
Adult Contemporary/Inspirational Performance, Group/Duo/Band: Shane & Shane, "Yearn"
Praise & Worship Album of the Year: A Collision, David Crowder Band (producer: Ed Cash, David Crowder)
Praise & Worship Song of the Year: "How Great Is Our God," Passion (songwriter: Ed Cash, Jesse Reeves, Chris Tomlin)
Praise & Worship Artist of the Year: David Crowder Band
Country/Southern Gospel Album of the Year: Why Should The Fire Die?, Nickel Creek (producer: Tony Berg)
Country/Southern Gospel Song of the Year: "I'll Fly Away," Jars of Clay featuring Sarah Kelly (songwriter: Albert E. Brumley, Jars of Clay [new arrangement])
Country/Southern Gospel Artist of the Year: Carrie Underwood
Hard Rock/Loud Music Album of the Year: ...And The Rest Will Follow, Project 86 (producer: Ben Kaplan, Project 86)
Hard Rock/Loud Music Song of the Year: "Mouth Like a Magazine," Showbread (songwriter: Showbread)
Hard Rock/Loud Music Artist of the Year: Underoath
Short Form Music Video of the Year: "Nuisance," John Reuben featuring Matthew Thiessen

Again, you can read the ceremony in its entirety: http://forum.cmcentral.com/index.php?showtopic=40700

News: "Winter Jam '06 enjoys unprecedented success" by Greg Webb

2006-02-23T23:24:00.000-08:00

WINTER JAM ’06 has become the most successful tour in the event’s 10-year history. This past weekend, WINTER JAM ’06 surpassed 127,000 in paid attendance in just 17 shows, averaging nearly 7,500 per night, announced Troy VanLiere, partner in VanLiere-Wilcox, and manager for Integrity Music’s NewSong, which is hosting WINTER JAM for the 10th straight year.

The actual paid attendance during the first six weekends was 127,151. The tour’s biggest show to date came this past weekend in Greenville, SC with 13,556 in paid attendance. There are four more weekends, with 14 shows left in the tour. The remaining dates and locations can be found at www.newsongonline.com or www.jamtour.com.

“WINTER JAM has surprised all of us as it has surpassed everyone’s expectations,” said VanLiere. “I think it is safe to say that the combination of our best line-up of artists and great tour markets have made this the most successful WINTER JAM ever. It appears that fans have truly made WINTER JAM the show to see this winter!”

In addition to NewSong, WINTER JAM’s artist line-up includes Newsboys, tobyMac, ZOEgirl, Hawk Nelson, and Krystal Myers. The tour is visiting 31 cities every weekend from January 13 to March 19. In addition to the music, WINTER JAM features "Sphere Of Fear," a motorcycle stunt show, and guest speaker, David Nasser, a youth evangelist and author of A Call to Grace.

NewSong members continue to measure the tour’s success by the lives changed at the WINTER JAM concerts. In addition to an estimated 3,700 decisions made for Christ, more than 2,000 have made commitments to sponsor children in Holt International (www.holtintl.org) Children’s Services “Waiting Child Program,” a monthly sponsorship program that brings sustaining hope and support to orphaned, abandoned or vulnerable children awaiting full-time adoptions.

Said Eddie Carswell of NewSong: “The entire tour is humbled every weekend by the thousands of people coming to the shows, and then even more floored, when hundreds of kids at each show stand up for a new life in Christ or to pledge their support to a great ministry like Holt.”

NewSong has more than the tour to celebrate as “Psalm 40” from their Dove Award-nominated album Rescue: Live Worship, is enjoying its third week as the No. 1 Inspirational Song on Radio & Records (R&R) charts, making it the band’s 19th No. 1 single. The song is also No. 8 on R&R’s AC chart. Christian Radio Weekly (CRW) has the song at No. 2 at Inspo and No. 6 at AC. “Psalm 40” is still assending with a bullet on every chart.

About NewSong:

NewSong is a Dove Award winner and GRAMMY nominee. NewSong has recorded 14 albums including its latest and first on the Integrity Music label, Rescue: Live Worship. Among NewSong’s 19 No. 1 singles are such signature songs as “Arise My Love,” “Can’t Keep A Good Man Down,” “Red Letter Day,” and last year’s cross-over hit, “When God Made You,” a duet with Natalie Grant. Their holiday anthem, “The Christmas Shoes,” became a #1 mainstream radio hit, and inspired a series of New York Times-bestselling books and two CBS Movies of the Week, including 2005’s holiday ratings success “The Christmas Blessing.” NewSong is preparing to head into the recording studio to produce their new Christmas record, which will include the “Christmas Blessing” single. Their multi-artist “Jam” Tours, which they began hosting in 1995, have grown to become the largest attended Christian music tours in the industry.

News: "KJ-52 to release remix project" by Greg Webb

2006-02-23T23:21:00.000-08:00

On the heels of his recent Dove Award nominations, BEC Recording’s own rapper extraordinaire KJ-52 will unveil KJ-52 Remixed on May 2.

KJ-52 Remixed will include 14 songs from the four previous releases including two brand new songs including “Napoleon Dynamite” and “Washed Up”. Other fan favorites such as “Dear Slim part 2”, “Are You Real”, “Mullet Song”, and “Fivetweezy” are also slated for the remix table. Jeremy Camp, Jessy Ribordy of Falling Up, and Pigeon John will all make guest appearances. The album will be remixed by Tedd T. (tobyMac, ZOEgirl), Joseph Kisselburgh of Falling Up, and KJ himself, with collaborative efforts from Liquid Beats, DJ Morphiziz and many more.

KJ-52 received two nominations at the recent Gospel Music Association press conference announcing nominees for the upcoming 37th Annual GMA Music Awards. Behind The Musik (BEC/Uprok Records) KJ-52’s 2005 album release, was given a nod in the “Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year” category. The song “Are You Real” from that same recording was also listed among the “Rap/Hip Hop Song of the Year” runnings. KJ-52 won the 2004 Dove Award for “Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year” with his album It’s Pronounced Five-Two. Winners will be announced at the GMA Music Awards on Wednesday, April 5th.

KJ-52, who has toured with the likes of Kutless, Disciple, and Falling Up is currently on a 30-city run as part of The Anthem Tour with Superchick and Seventh Day Slumber. He will also be performing at the Acquire The Fire conferences and Dome Events throughout 2006. With six albums to his credit, KJ has amassed over 500,000 records sold to date. He was also just recently voted the favorite “Hip Hop Artist” in the CCM Magazine Reader’s Choice Awards. Look for KJ at every major festival this summer.

For more information check out KJ-52’s official artist website at www.kj52.com.

News: "Second Friendship Fest to be held in Morrocco" by Greg Webb

2006-02-17T23:06:00.000-08:00

Capitalizing on the success of an event that captured the world’s attention in 2005, Moroccan officials and a US-based non-profit group have set the dates for a second “Friendship Fest” in Marrakech, Morocco. The event, to be held May 5-7 just outside the walls of the ancient city, is a celebration of friendship and peace between the two cultures. Last May, American and Moroccan musicians shared center stage in the first-ever Friendship Fest. That event drew an estimated 85,000 people over the three nights of the music festival. Spawned by an invitation by Marrakech Regional President Abdelali Doumou, and with the full support of Wali (Governor), to bring a festival of music to his region, American music promoters Harry Thomas and Tim Landis (co-founders of Creation Festivals, Inc.) have put together a diverse lineup of contemporary Christian music artists to appear at Friendship Fest 2006. Led by 2006 Grammy Award winning artist Audio Adrenaline (3 million albums sold and 18 #1 radio hits) and three-time Grammy Award nominee The Crabb Family (over a million annual concert attendees and 16 #1 radio hits), all artists will be donating their labor and that of their production teams, to help make the event happen. Four additional artists (American Idol finalist George Huff, multiple Grammy Award nominee Jaci Velasquez, and Dove Award winners KJ-52 and downhere) will be joined onstage by a number of contemporary and traditional Moroccan music artists during the 18 hours of the music festival. Production costs of the event, which is free to all attendees, will be offset by private contributions in the United States and corporate sponsorships in Morocco. Regional President Doumou hailed the 2005 festival, believed to be the first of its kind in the Arab world, as a resounding success. “We were delighted and honored when my good friends Harry Thomas and Tim Landis accepted our invitation to come to Marrakech to join with us in celebration of our long-standing friendship with the people of the United States. Over the past three days, we have seen the universal language of music unite our people and cultures in a way that was both gratifying and encouraging for future cultural and economic exchanges.” Thomas agreed, stating: “We were simply overwhelmed by the warmth of the reception we received from the Moroccan people. Each of the artists performing at the event had stories of new relationships that were developed as a result of Friendship Fest. Those in attendance truly blessed us with their heartfelt encouragement and enthusiastic support.

Set on a sandy field last used to celebrate the marriage of Moroccan King Mohammed VI’s daughter, the 2005 festival began each of the three nights at 6:00PM local time. By the time the dessert sun had begun to set an hour or so later, tens of thousands of Moroccans had gathered in front of the stage to see American artists perform alongside some of their favorite Moroccan musicians. The crowd was animated and enthusiastic, responding to invitations to dance, jump and even sing along. “The only thing that was translated were the introductions of the performers”, said Thomas. “The universal language of music translated itself.” According to festival organizers, the purpose of Friendship Fest is to “use the universal language of music to bridge cultures and make friends - to show that people of different cultures and faith traditions can be friends and live in harmony with one another.” When asked for his view regarding whether or not these goals were achieved in 2005, Regional President Doumou responded: “The goals of Friendship Fest were most definitely achieved. We strengthened our relations with our American brothers and sisters and set the stage for ongoing discussions and future cultural exchanges between our countries. We truly believe that this event represented an historic opportunity for Americans and Moroccans to celebrate together, through music, in friendship and peace.”

At the conclusion of the 2005 event, Regional President Doumou extended an official invitation to Harry Thomas and the American Friendship Fest committee to return to Marrakech in the spring of 2006. Thomas returned to Morocco in November to begin the detailed planning process for Friendship Fest 2006

About Friendship Fest In early 2004, Harry Thomas (co-founder of American music’s Creation Festivals), was invited to Morocco to meet with top Moroccan government and religious leaders including Prime Minister Driss Jettou. During the visit, Thomas developed a friendship with Marrakech Regional President Abdelali Doumou and Marrakech Wali (Governor) Mohamed Hassad, who asked Thomas to present a Human Rights award at a major event to celebrate the achievements of women. The ceremony, called Khmissa 2004, took place as part of a program that was televised throughout Morocco, to much of the Arab world and also to France. At the ceremony, Thomas presented the award to Assia El Qouadie, a woman who worked with prison reform. During the presentation, Thomas referred to Scripture, stating that those who work with the poor touch the face of God. His remarks were warmly received by the audience.

Shortly after Thomas returned to the United States, he received a letter from Moroccan Ambassador Aziz Mekouar confirming an invitation he had received verbally from Regional President Doumou to bring American music to Morocco to promote friendship between the people of the United States and Morocco.

About the American Artists Scheduled to Appear at Friendship Fest 2006:

Audio Adrenaline	Audio Adrenaline recently completed its successful fall Until My Heart Caves In tour in support of its critically acclaimed, 2006 Grammy winning and ninth studio album of the same name. As one of today's top touring attractions, known for members' explosiveness and energetic outpourings, coupled with state of the art production, the band has become a favorite of Christian rock music fans worldwide. Thanks to earnest performances and undying appreciation for its fans, the group has sold over three million records and racked up 18 No. 1 singles. The band's Bloom recording was certified Gold by the RIAA in 1999 and they were awarded the prestigious "Song of the Decade" crowning in the 90s for "Big House" by CCM Magazine. With a prestigious GRAMMY Award for it's 2003 recording, Worldwide, and four Dove Awards, Audio Adrenaline has consistently proved its relevance, artistry and heart.
The Crabb Family	From a small, storefront church in rural Kentucky, to stages, auditoriums and amphitheaters across America, The Crabb Family has become one of Gospel music's greatest success stories, and one of the freshest-and hottest-acts to hit the American music industry in memory. Siblings Jason, Kelly, Terah, Aaron, and Adam Crabb, ranging in age from 22 to 28, have been honored with numerous awards, including eight Dove Awards, three GRAMMY nominations, as well as unprecedented success at radio -- with 16 number one songs, and on tour -- with nearly one million attending Crabb concerts last year.
Jaci Velasquez	Jaci Velasquez is one of the world's most successful and beloved pop/ballad singers. For proof, look no further than her two Latin Grammy nominations, three Grammy Award Nominations, five Latin Billboard Award nominations, six Dove Awards and her win for Female Pop Album of the Year at the Latin Billboard Awards. Jaci has sold over four million albums, garnered three Platinum recordings, sixteen #1 radio hits, appeared in two feature films and has graced the cover of more than 50 magazines.
KJ-52M	KJ-52 is one of the hottest rappers on the Christian hip-hop scene, as evidenced by his 2004 Dove Award for Rap/Hip-hop Album of the Year and his 2005 and 2006 Dove Award nominations for Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song of the Year and Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year. From humble beginnings in Tampa, Florida, KJ-52 believes that God can do great things with small things that are surrendered to His purpose.
George Huff	Known as the jovial last man standing from Fox's American Idol television program, George Huff was a top five finalist seen by over 20 million people worldwide. George's first studio album, “Miracles”, is backed by a stellar group of producers, capitalizing Huff's passion for Rhythm and Blues and gospel music genres. Brilliantly displaying George's singular, often stunning touch for deeply moving, soulful pop and R&B, Miracles is nothing less than the introduction of one of the most commanding voices in contemporary music today.
downhere	Four young musicians from Canada, known collectively as “downhere”, took the American Christian music industry by storm with its 2002 Dove Award nomination as New Artist of the Year. Their debut album won a 2002 Juno Award ("Best Gospel Album") two 2002 Canadian Gospel Music Association Covenant Awards ("Rock Album of the Year" and "Rock Song of the Year"). Their second album produced the 2004 Dove Award-winning Modern Rock Recorded Song of the Year. The band is currently hard at work on their third album (which will be released right after Friendship Fest 2006).

Questions and Answers

Q: Why was Friendship Fest 2005 held? A: The American music community responded to the warm invitation of Marrakech to come together to celebrate our friendship through the universal language of music.

Q: Whose idea was it? A: The idea was first conceived by Marrakech Regional President Abdelali Doumou, and with the full support of Wali (Governor) Mohamed Hassad, who invited Harry Thomas, co-founder of America’s Creation Festivals, Inc., to bring American music to Marrakech as part of a celebration of friendship in the midst of diversity in cultures and faith traditions.

Q: Who paid for it? A: Friendship Fest was presented free of charge for all attendees. The expenses of the event were paid by a cooperative effort between the l'Association du Festival de l'Amitie committee in Morocco and the American Committee for Friendship Fest. All artists and producers donated their time and labor, and the production and travel expenses were covered by a combination of private donations and sponsorship considerations.

Q: Did the American Christians have an agenda to come to Morocco to convert Muslims to Christianity? A: That was not the purpose of Friendship Fest. Friendship Fest was a music festival and a celebration of friendship and peace. The purpose of the event was to show that people of different faith traditions and cultural backgrounds can be friends and live together in harmony.

Q: Was any Christian literature distributed to Friendship Fest attendees? A: No Christian literature was handed out by Friendship Fest. Festival organizers asked those attending the event to refrain from handing out materials or trying to preach. Friendship Fest was simply a music festival to establish and build relationships, celebrate friendship and promote peace.

News: "Amy Grant wins 6th Grammy" by Greg Webb

2006-02-17T22:56:00.000-08:00

Best-selling, multiple GRAMMY and Dove Award-winning singer/songwriter Amy Grant recently received her sixth career GRAMMY Award for her newest project, Rock of Ages…Hymns & Faith. Additionally, Grant contributed material for two other GRAMMY Award-winning projects, Songs From The Neighborhood - The Music Of Mister Rogers, and Marlo Thomas & Friends: Thanks & Giving All Year Long. The winners of the 48th Annual GRAMMY Awards were announced on February 8th at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, Calif.

Rock of Ages, Grant’s twentieth album, won the GRAMMY Award for “Best Southern, Country, or Bluegrass Gospel Album.” The project made its first week sales debut at #1 on both the Christian and the Christian Overall SoundScan charts, and entered Billboard’s Top 200 sales chart at #42. Rock of Ages follows the Gold certification of Grant’s first hymns project, Legacy…Hymns & Faith, and since its release last year, has received rave reviews including being picked as People Magazine’s “Critic’s Choice” and given a “four-out-of-four” star rating.

Produced by Vince Gill and Brown Bannister, Rock of Ages…Hymns & Faith contains twelve classic hymns and worship songs, including a “Rock of Ages” duet with Gill, along with a newly recorded version “El Shaddai,” which was named “A Song of the Century” by the RIAA in 2001.

The GRAMMY Award comes on the heels of Grant’s success as the star of “Three Wishes.” The hour-long, unscripted series featured Grant as she led a team of experts to "grant" wishes to help make the hopes and unbelievable dreams of deserving people come true. Viewers followed the deeply personal and heartwarming stories as Grant and her team transformed these hopes into a life-changing reality. The show was lauded as one of 2005’s best television series and has received and overwhelming response from the public and the media. The show was recently nominated for a “Movie Guide” family programming award.

Over the course of her career, Amy Grant has sold well over 25 million records worldwide, including one quintuple Platinum record, a triple Platinum record and a double Platinum record, as well as six Platinum and three Gold records. Five of her songs have hit #1 at mainstream radio, in addition to multiple #1 hits at Christian radio. Additionally, her work has been honored with six GRAMMY Awards, twenty-four Dove Awards and many other accolades, including being nominated into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2003. Grant has also been noted for her humanitarian contributions, receiving among other honors the Pax Christi Award from St. John’s University in 1994.

For more information on Amy Grant and Rock of Ages…Hymns & Faith, visit www.AmyGrant.com or www.WordRecords.com.

News: "Audio Adrenaline wins 2nd consecutive Grammy" by Greg Webb

2006-02-17T22:51:00.000-08:00

Audio Adrenaline's ninth studio album, Until My Heart Caves In, earned the band its second consecutive GRAMMY Award for Best Rock Gospel Album last week at the 48th Annual GRAMMY Awards. Released Aug. 30 to rave reviews, the album became the band's sixth consecutive studio record to be nominated for a GRAMMY. Audio Adrenaline's first GRAMMY win came in 2004 for its previous album, Worldwide.

“This GRAMMY is especially significant for us because it’s our last year together as a band, and it’s about doing what we love to do,” says Audio Adrenaline front man Mark Stuart. “Although it’s our last year, it’s not all ending here. We will continue on with our efforts for Haiti with the Hands and Feet Project.”

Audio Adrenaline announced last month that due to Stuart’s ongoing vocal challenges, AudioA will add a final chapter to its substantial career with Adios, slated to release later this year. After 15-years of music and mission, the band is choosing to say “adios,” offering one more nod to its considerable fan base with the album and select live events.

Since 1991, Audio Adrenaline has taken a full throttled blast of musical passion, melded it with a compassionate desire to impact the world at large and added members’ rock-solid grounding in reality with their vulnerable, no holds barred songwriting. Thanks to earnest performances and undying appreciation for its fans, the group has sold over three million records and racked up 18 No. 1 singles. The band’s Bloom recording was certified Gold by the RIAA in 1999 and they were awarded the prestigious “Song of the Decade” crowning in the 90s for “Big House” by CCM Magazine.

The band is also well known for its humanitarian aid and will remain heavily involved with Flicker Records and raising funds to continue its Hands and Feet Project, a non-profit organization they formed dedicated to the health, welfare and education of orphaned children of Haiti. The organization provides the nurturing of a loving home, a viable Christian witness, and attention to the medical needs and proper education of each orphaned child taken in by the orphanage.

Audio Adrenaline GRAMMY Awards and Nominations:

Rock Gospel Album of the Year - Until My Heart Caves In (2006) - WINNER
Rock Gospel Album of the Year - Worldwide (2004) - WINNER
Rock Gospel Album of the Year - Lift (2003)
Rock Gospel Album of the Year – Underdog (2000)
Rock Gospel Album of the Year - Some Kind Of Zombie (1999)
Rock Gospel Album of the Year - Bloom (1997) RIAA Certified Gold

More information on the band, including its latest tour itinerary, can be found at www.AudioA.com.

News: "Delirious? lead worship for more than 1.2 million people in India" by Greg Webb

2006-02-10T22:47:00.000-08:00

Delirious? recently traveled to Hyderabad, India to join dynamic evangelist Joyce Meyer and India’s own Sounds of the Nations for one of the largest Christian events in India. More than 1.2 million people attending heard Delirious? play songs from its widely acclaimed new album, The Mission Bell, as well as songs from its significant repertoire of international hits. With as many as 400,000 people attending each day of the four-day gathering, hundreds of thousands made commitments to faith in Jesus Christ.

“The incredible gift that Delirious? brings to an event like this is immeasurable,” says Joyce Meyer. “The ability to go from completely rock'n down the house to absolute pure worship is awesome! It was an honor to share the stage with them and look forward to doing more in the future! India will never ever be the same!” Delirious?’s Martin Smith leads hundreds of thousands in worship on one of the four nights in Hyderabad, India.

Delirious? is also being recognized for its song on the Music Inspired by the Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, which received a GMA Music Award nomination for Special Event Album of the Year. The band received additional nominations in the 2nd Annual CMC Music Awards for Praise & Worship Album of the Year (The Mission Bell) and Praise & Worship Artist of the Year. More information on the awards can be found at www.cmcentral.com, www.gmamusicawards.com.

In addition to the nominations, the Mission Bell cover art by artist Benjamin Savignac, was named among the 20 Best Projects of 2005 by Grafik Magazine, an internationally recognized graphic design magazine based in London, England. More information on the magazine and the 2005 Best Projects can be found at www.grafikmagazine.co.uk.

The Mission Bell, which released December 26, has already received acclaim from the likes of CCM, Relevant, Worship Leader, ChristianityToday.com and numerous others. The recording continues to receive praise as critics are abuzz about the newest album from the UK’s Delirious?:

“The Mission Bell is a challenge for Christians to make a difference in the world. It's an urgent call, conveyed through the use of intense, atmospheric and, at times, brooding music.” – Fort Worth Star Telegram (Grade: A)

“Delirious? is back with yet another stand out album that continues to push the boundaries of modern worship music. The new songs are fresh, powerful and full of Delirious? power.” –RadiantRock.com

“The Mission Bell is one of the better records of the year, and a fine example of how quality musicianship and artistry can mingle with heartfelt and honest praise of God.”-PhantomTollbooth.com

Fans in the U.S. will be able to hear songs from The Mission Bell for themselves as Delirious? brings its international tour to the States this April. Visit www.delirious.co.uk for more information and a complete list of tour dates.

News: "Kutless to embark on headlining tour" by Greg Webb

2006-02-10T22:42:00.000-08:00

BEC/Tooth & Nail Records band Kutless will soon embark on a new tour. Having played to over 1.6 million people in the past 4 years, Kutless aims to increase that number by headlining their first rock tour since Sea Of Faces in the spring of 2004. The Hearts Of The Innocent tour features headliner Kutless, with Falling Up, Disciple, and Stellar Kart.

The tour, beginning on February 23rd, will highlight Kutless’ new album Hearts of the Innocent that returns the band to their rock-n-roll beginnings. Hearts Of The Innocent releases nationwide on March 21st. Kutless has enjoyed widespread success since their first release in 2002, selling over 600,000 units, touring relentlessly, and releasing 8 radio hits. This year they have been nominated for three GMA Music Awards including Group of the Year.

BEC Recordings’ band Falling Up continues to gain momentum with their sophomore release Dawn Escapes, which hit stores this past fall. Dawn Escapes is the follow-up to the hit 2004 release Crashings. Most recent success includes landing their fourth R&R CHR Rock No. 1 radio single since their debut release. Dawn Escapes debuted #4 on the Billboard “Heatseekers” chart selling more than 6,000 units during the first week of sales.

S/R/E Recordings/Epic band Disciple is a seasoned rock-n-roll band of four Tennessee natives fusing together heavy guitar riffs and lyrically strong choruses forming a message for today’s young generation. Disciple’s self-titled album follows the band’s previous success of six No. 1 rock hits, four Dove nominations, and their independent project Back Again (2003), selling more than 35,000 copies. The success of their current album this year has led to the band being nominated for two GMA Music Awards including Rock Album of the Year.

Stellar Kart released their debut album, All Gas, No Breaks and promptly hit the road in support of the album performing over 150 concerts in their first 10 months. A high energy pop punk band from Phoenix, AZ they will release a new CD in 2006.

Here are the New Tour Dates:

February 23 Austin, TX Promiseland Church
February 24 Houston, TX Bammel Church of Christ
February 25 Lake Jackson, TX Family Life Church
February 26 Abilene, TX Beltway Park Baptist Church
February 27 Truth or Consequences, NM T or C Civic Center
March 2 Mesa, AZ Word of Grace
March 3 Las Vegas, NV Cornerstone Christian Fellowship
March 4 Valencia, CA The Ice Storm
March 5 Temecula, CA Rancho Community Church
March 7 Redlands, CA Calvary Chapel Redlands
March 8 Santa Barbara, CA TBA
March 9 Pismo Beach, CA New Life Community Church
March 10 Modesto, CA Bethel Church
March 11 San Jose, CA Church on the Hill
March 12 Rocklin, CA Sunset Christian Center
March 13 Reno, NV Extreme Limit
March 14 Medford, OR Table Rock Fellowship
March 16 Portland, OR Rolling Hills Community Church
March 17 Spokane, WA Calvary Spokane
March 18 Seattle, WA Christian Life Center
March 20 Great Falls, MT Montana Expo Park
March 21 Billings, MT Harvest Church
March 22 Boise, ID Boise First Community Center
March 23 Lake Forest, CA Saddleback Church
March 24 Denver, CO Riverside Baptist Church
March 25 Gillette, WY Cam-Plex Energy Hall
March 27 Amarillo, TX Church at Quail Creek
March 28 Odessa, TX Temple Baptist
March 30 Broken Arrow, OK Rhema Bible Church
March 31 Plainview, TX Harral Auditorium
April 1 Orlando, FL Luis Palau Festival
April 6 Trumann, AK Trumann Recreational Complex
April 7 Pensacola, FL Pensacola Fairgrounds
April 13 Ashland, KY Kentucky Christian University
April 14 Culpeper, VA Culpeper Middle School Gymnasium
April 15 Arlington, TX Six Flags Over Texas
April 21 Toledo, OH The Mill
April 22 Kalamazoo, MI Chenery Auditorium
April 26 Myerston, PA Bettery Rallies
April 27 Grove City, OH Grove City Church of the Nazarene
April 28 Cincinnati, OH The Underground
April 29 Greenville, IL Bond County Fairgrounds
May 6 Athens, AL Athens State University
May 28 Grand Bahamas Cruise
June 10 Fayetteville, TN Lincoln County Fairgrounds
July 1 Dallas, TX KLTY Radio Event
July 12 Santa Clarita, CA Grace Baptist Church

For more information on the tour visit www.kutless.com

News: "Rocketown Records forms new label imprint, signs first artist, Hyper Static Union" by Greg Webb

2006-02-10T22:40:00.000-08:00

Rocketown Records President Don Donahue recently announced the formation of a new label imprint, RKT Music, and the imprint’s first release, Lifegiver, from four-piece modern rock band Hyper Static Union. Unlike Rocketown, whose primary focus serves singer/songwriters, RKT will seek out touring bands with strong artistic statements, active fan bases and great songs to reach a diverse demographic. HSU was discovered by members of Grammy-winning band Third Day, who signed HSU to their own Consuming Fire Productions and brought the album to RKT to market and distribute. HSU’s debut, Lifegiver, is set for a May 9, 2006 street date.

Donahue and Rocketown Records/RKT founder and chairman Michael W. Smith are thrilled to be working with Consuming Fire Productions on this release. Donahue said, “From our beginning when we were all at Reunion to touring partnerships to the Exodus album, Michael and I have enjoyed a decade of friendship with and admiration for the guys in Third Day. To now be working together on a band with as much potential as Hyper Static Union is truly exciting.”

Producer Mac Powell (Third Day/Consuming Fire Productions) said, "Hyper Static Union is unlike any other band out there. Shawn Lewis is hands down the most talented guy I know. And still, it's not just one of those bands with a main guy surrounded by whoever just to fill in the holes. Each guy brings such a vital part that adds to an exciting sound and live performance. People can expect to be rocked by the music and challenged as well by a lyric that is not compromised or stale. This is something totally original."

Hailing from the Northwest, Hyper Static Union formed in 1998, and its members have spent the past eight years honing their craft and creating a style of music that’s one of a kind. Band members Shawn Lewis (guitar/vocals), Ray Burnham (drums), Bryan Albrechtson (guitar) and Mike Jackson (bass) first met in high school, and the four indicate a variety of musical influences, everything from Seal to Sting to Sade to Steely Dan. But their extensive musical backgrounds in jazz, modern rock and funk meld into a unique style all their own, a sound that defies any one description. Excellence—both musically and lyrically—is the common thread that holds everything together for Hyper Static Union.

Hyper Static Union frontman Shawn Lewis said, “Ultimately we are about the craft of songwriting, and occasionally we are able to incorporate all things funk and rock into a sensible, three-and-a-half minute package laced with a passionate melody. We feel inclined to produce music that requires people to ‘tune-in’ mentally and spiritually. We want the audience to consider certain things about their salvation, the state of the world, their hearts and their relationships.” Brad Avery (Third Day/Consuming Fire Productions) added, “Lifegiver is a really exciting record. The songs and sounds are fresh. The melodies are catchy, and this record rocks. These guys are great at weaving so many cool elements together, blending heavy rock guitars, soulful vocals, and infectious grooves to create something original and refreshing. Not only can these guys deliver in the studio, but they also have an incredible live show.”

The first radio single from Hyper Static Union’s Lifegiver debut, “Overhead,” went for adds at CHR/Rock stations last week and is already making a significant impact. Signed to Overflow Management and Creative Artist Agency for booking, HSU plans to announce Spring 2006 tour dates and summer festival appearances soon. For more information, visit www.hyperstaticunion.com and www.rktmusic.com.

News: "Kendall Payne song featured on Grey's Antatomy, sparks major interest" by Greg Webb

2006-02-01T22:38:00.000-08:00

BHT Records artist Kendall Payne’s song “Scratch” was featured on Sunday evening’s (Jan. 29) episode of the ABC hit drama “Grey’s Anatomy”. Response to the song was immediate, as ABC’s message board for the show lit up with viewers searching for information on the song.

The next day, “Scratch” finished at #23 on the iTunes Pop Singles download chart, while Payne’s acclaimed album, Grown, reached #15 on the Pop albums chart. “This is a clear example of the power of a great song finding its way to an audience through a new medium”, says Dave Palmer, Payne’s manager and VP of marketing at BHT Records.

Grown was released in September of 2005 through BHT Records and has garnered acclaim from critics and Payne’s songwriting peers. She appeared on tour in the fall of 2005 with Bebo Norman and opened the Delirious? Christmas tour in the UK. Payne is currently playing concerts and writing with a number of artists.

News: "VeggieTales embark on Rockin' Tour" by Greg Webb

2006-01-26T22:32:00.000-08:00

VeggieTales fans should get ready to sing, dance and laugh! The VeggieTales characters are hitting the road this spring for an ALL-VEGGIE show, performing their silly songs during their major market VeggieTales Rockin’ Tour LIVE! Audiences can experience the silliness at churches and theaters nationwide and in various venues throughout Canada.

The tour, which kicks off March 9 in Virginia Beach, VA, will visit more than 45 cities spanning 23 states and 4 provinces, including such major markets as Washington, D.C., Miami, Seattle, Portland, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Birmingham, Houston, Albuquerque, Milwaukee, Vancouver, Calgary and others. For the latest itinerary, ticket information and group sales, please visit www.bigidea.com/events.

Combining all of the well-known VeggieTales songs, timeless values and plenty of that wacky humor VeggieTales fans enjoy so much is what makes this a delightfully entertaining show for kids of all ages. Taking the show out on the road like a true concert tour, audiences can expect to see some of their all-time favorite VeggieTales characters come to life right before their very eyes as they learn a lesson in friendship and experience a few really fun surprises!

“Our live show provides the perfect opportunity for children of any age to experience a high-energy performance starring their favorite VeggieTales characters,” says Terry Pefanis, Big Idea COO.

“Due to popular demand, the VeggieTales Rockin’ Tour LIVE is back with even more time dedicated to interaction with Bob, Larry and the rest of the Veggies cast,” continues Pefanis. “The show consists of two 40-minute segments enhanced through the use of engaging visuals such as a large screen video, a state-of-the-art lighting show, and much more. The incredibly positive impact of this show for children and parents alike will be both memorable and uplifting for years to come!”

Show Synopsis The show features Bob the Tomato as the stage manager who has written the script and is continually pushing all his Veggie friends to keep to the song list he has provided. Unfortunately for Bob, the Veggies have their own idea about what songs should be performed. The mayhem that ensues will cause the audience to laugh out loud and dance in their seats. Kids will leave the show with a healthy dose of Veggies and a gentle reminder that "God made them special and He loves them very much."

About Big Idea, Inc.

Big Idea Inc., a subsidiary of Classic Media LLC, is committed to providing entertaining stories that help parents teach children important life lessons in a delightfully wacky way. Big Idea is best known for its award-winning VeggieTales animated series, which has sold more than 42+ million videos and over five million albums of chart-topping audio since 1993. In addition to extending the property into licensing, publishing and live entertainment arenas, the company released its first-ever feature film, Jonah – A VeggieTales Movie, in 2002 grossing over $25 million at the domestic box office. Big Idea is recognized as the leading producer and creator of values-based product reflecting a Judeo-Christian worldview in the family entertainment industry. For more information on Big Idea, visit www.bigidea.com.

News: "Superchick to embark on headlining tour" by Greg Webb

2006-01-26T22:24:00.000-08:00

Inpop Records pop/rock sensation, Superchic[k], will headline 30-plus dates on the This Is Your Anthem tour, named after the band’s hit song, “Anthem,” off Beauty From Pain (2005). The tour, which has already sold out in key markets, kicks off Jan. 27th in Cincinnati, Ohio, and features KJ-52, Seventh Day Slumber and eleventyseven.

Superchic[k] heads into the highly anticipated tour with a blockbuster year under its belt, with a critically acclaimed album, Beauty From Pain, two No. 1 radio hits with “Pure” and “We Live,” sell-out tours, mainstream music and TV placement and major sponsorships with Gibson Guitars and Konami Digital Entertainment.

“Last year fans took Superchic[k] to well over 100,000 records in nine months and attended 200 shows in seven countries,” says Superchic[k]’s Max Hsu. “This year, fans should anticipate even more exciting things as we take our best shot at bringing the music to a broader audience,” he says.

"The first show that went on sale for this tour sold out 1,800 seats in just three weeks,” says Scott Huie, president of H2O Artist Agency and tour booking agent. “That’s a great sign for this line-up. From beginning to end, this concert is designed to be a musical mix of high impact and deep relevance for the concert attendee. The music will be rocking and the message will be good news!” he says.

Superchic[k] recently completed a fall tour with Audio Adrenaline and Pillar, as well as a European run with shows in Finland and Germany with audiences over 20,000.

The band garnered major market exposure late last year when “Anthem” was chosen as the theme song for MTV’s “Real World/Road Rules Challenge: The Gauntlet,” which premiered in December. Additionally, Superchic[k]’s tune, “It’s On” is currently featured in NBC’s Winter Olympics promotional material airing through February. Other film credits of late include Stewart Little 3 and Disney’s The Ice Princess.

The interactive gaming industry also took notice of Superchic[k] in 2005, as the band was prominently featured in the new video game from Konami Digital Entertainment, “Steel Lancer Arena International (S.L.A.I.).” The game features Superchic[k] songs and icons, as well as partner logos from Gibson Guitars and Inpop Records.

About KJ-52

Tooth & Nail/BEC Recordings artist KJ-52 (pronounced FIVE-TWO) is widely recognized as a strong role model to the music community. Since his debut in 2000, KJ-52 has made it his mission to reach out with a positive message to the rap community. 7th Avenue, KJ-52’s critically acclaimed national debut, was nominated for a Dove Award for Rap/Hip-Hop Album of the Year and It’s Pronounced Five-Two won the Dove Award in the category of Rap/Hip-Hop Album of the Year. KJ-52, whose given name is Jonah Sorrentino, grew up in Tampa, Florida. More than 250,000 of KJ’s records have been scanned. KJ also penned his first Tyndale devotional book, 7 days with KJ, recently.

About Seventh Day Slumber

Seventh Day Slumber inked with Tooth and Nail Records last year after being courted by its figurehead Brandon Ebel, who had been tracking the band’s personal and professional progress for several years. Its first album for the label, Once Upon a Shattered Life, is stocked solid with gripping tracks exploring divorce, rebellion and a commitment to sexual purity.

About eleventyseven

Matt Langston (lead vocals, guitar), Caleb Satterfield (bass) and Jonathan Stephens (drums) have been cranking out their brand of fun teenage music for nearly four years. Greenville, South Carolina, has served as home base for the band which quickly expanded its domain to the East Coast and beyond. With three well-received independent releases to its credit, the trio has maintained a non-stop touring schedule as proof of its extreme likeability and work ethic. The band signed with Flicker Records in late 2005 and releases it debut label project, And the Land of Fake Believe, March 21.

News: "MTV chooses song by The Afters as theme song for new show" by Greg Webb

2006-01-26T22:23:00.000-08:00

The Afters hit single “Beautiful Love” will be featured as the theme song for MTV’s 8th & Ocean, which will air this spring. The song will be used for the theme song, commercials and for commercial bumpers.

Also, “Beautiful Love” was just confirmed for the upcoming film Just My Luck starring Lindsay Lohan releasing May 12, 2006.

Entertainment Tonight & The Insider have posted an online contest with The Afters. Check it out at: http://et.tv.yahoo.com/contests/.

Following are some quick Facts about “Beautiful Love”:

#1 Christian CHR Song (2005)
#8 on R&R’s Christian CHR most played list of 2005, #8 on Christian Radio Weekly’s most played.
HOT AC Top 30 for 16 weeks (2005)
#92 on R&R’s Hot AC most played list of 2005
mtvU Dean’s List (2005): Music video “Beautiful Love” voted Top Video beating out Coldplay for that week
mtvU Award (2005): Won Streaming Video for “Beautiful Love”
MTV Music Awards (2005): “Beautiful Love” was a commercial break bumper
MTV Asia (2005): Music video airplay & Advance Warning
Fuse Network (2005): Video Airplay “Oven Fresh”
Rolling Stone.com (2005): Music video featured on the video homepage for 3 weeks
American Airlines (2005): Song selected for the American Way “Road Warrior” promotion airing during the in-flight video
American Eagle stores (2005): Selected for “Back-to-School” campaign featuring the song in more than 860 stores nationwide as well as online
Penned by lead vocalist Josh Havens while his wife was in Mexico on a humanitarian-aid trip. “Shortly after we got married, she left to help build houses for people who were living in shanties. I was back in Dallas strumming on a guitar thinking about how people say ‘love can change the world.’ It’s usually a cliché, but my wife was living out that ideal. That night I wrote ‘Beautiful Love’ for her and all the magical things that can come from love.”

News: "Audio Adrenaline to say Adios in 2006" by Greg Webb

2006-01-20T22:14:00.000-08:00

One of the industries top bands, Audio Adrenaline announces that it will add a final chapter to its substantial career with Adios, slated to release later this year. After 15-years of music and mission, Audio Adrenaline is choosing to say “adios,” offering one more nod to its considerable fan base with the album and select live events.

After years of giving his all on stage and in the studio, Audio Adrenaline frontman Mark Stuart is experiencing ongoing vocal challenges. After consulting with doctors, it is clear the toll his voice has taken will prevent his ability to continue a consistent live performance schedule.

“Fifteen years of rock 'n' roll takes a toll on the vocal chords, but I wouldn’t trade a day of it for anything,” says Stuart. “Touring and making records with Will, Ben and Tyler has truly been a gift from God, as well as worshiping night after night with the greatest fans on the planet.”

“As one of the most successful and longest running bands in Christian music, Audio Adrenaline has made tremendous impact in the lives of their loyal listeners,” says Peter York, EMI CMG Label Group president. “They have also been a strong influence and positive role model for many of today’s emerging bands. It has been EMI CMG’s privilege to partner with Audio Adrenaline and to support their music and ministry throughout their entire career.”

With plans for Adios in its initial stages, fans can anticipate a commemorative look at the expansive career of Audio Adrenaline through the band’s greatest hits along with two newly recorded songs. A special edition Adios package is slated to include a DVD containing all Audio Adrenaline videos, live performance footage and new band interviews. This package will also feature interviews from artists impacted by Audio Adrenaline, including tobyMac and Steven Curtis Chapman, as well as members of MercyMe, Pillar, Relient K and Newsboys, each talking about their shared tour experiences and favorite memories of Audio Adrenaline.

“The plans emerging for Adios promise to deliver a fun and poignant experience in which Audio Adrenaline fans can participate,” says York. “The legacy of Audio Adrenaline is one that will continue to make impact for many years to come.”

Audio Adrenaline recently completed its successful fall Until My Heart Caves In tour in support of its critically acclaimed, 2006 GRAMMY nominated and ninth studio album of the same name. As one of today’s top touring attractions, known for members’ explosiveness and energetic outpourings, coupled with state of the art production, the band is currently preparing its final touring schedule that will give fans the opportunity to see one of today’s most successful rock bands one last time. In addition to select dates throughout the year, the tour will route them through the major summer festivals in 2006.

“Audio Adrenaline has been a favorite over the years and remains one of our top concert draws,” says Tim Landis, Creation Festival producer. “On the cutting edge musically, the band found their audience early and became a consistent headliner for Creation Festival. We are excited about having them one last time this summer, as it’s sure to be a memorable experience in this band’s remarkable history. AudioA is truly one of the great bands of our day.”

More information on the band, including its latest tour itinerary, can be found at www.AudioA.com.

News: "Matthew West and wife welcome new addition" by Greg Webb

2006-01-20T22:11:00.000-08:00

A new chapter in History has been opened for Universal South recording artist Matthew West and his wife, Emily. Their first child, Luella Jane West, came into the world at 7:20 PM on January 16. Luella weighed 5lbs. 10oz. at birth, and will surely be an inspiration for many new songs in the years to come.

Pictured below are the proud parents and daughter. For further information, visit www.matthewwest.com.

News: "Winter Jam '06 enjoys record-breaking first weekend" by Greg Webb

2006-01-20T22:07:00.000-08:00

According to Eddie Carswell of NewSong, the spiritual impact is as important to the WINTER JAM story as are the successful concert attendance figures. In addition to the estimated 300 decisions made for Christ, 439 also made commitments to sponsor children in Holt International Children’s Services “Waiting Child Program,” a monthly sponsorship program that brings sustaining hope and support to orphaned, abandoned or vulnerable children awaiting full-time adoptions.

“I can think of no more satisfying way to start the New Year than to be a part of this life-changing WINTER JAM tour. To see kids make decisions for Christ and to see them also supporting an important ministry like Holt International is what it’s all about for NewSong,” said Carswell. “It’s fantastic to be part of such a phenomenal, entertaining and inspiring concert experience.”

WINTER JAM ’06 continues this weekend in Ft. Myers and Tampa, Fla. The remaining dates and locations can be found at www.newsongonline.com or www.jamtour.com. For more information about Holt International, visit www.holtintl.org.

Featured Artist: Sanctus Real

2006-01-15T23:08:00.000-08:00

Performance Clips:

The Inside The Music Camera's were there with Sanctus Real on the See Spot Rock Tour!

Beatutiful Day Backstage

You know something's up when four Christian rockers beat out 75 other hopefuls to win a Best Band contest sponsored by a top commercial radio station. But that's the way it goes for Sanctus Real, an Ohio-based quartet that rocks with as much fire and force as the best of contemporary bands. With three previous indie releases under their belt, Sanctus Real is set to bust wide open with SAY IT LOUD, their Sparrow Records album debut due in December of 2002. But don't think raising the bar will impede their mission. All four members will tell you Sanctus Real is about one thing: sharing the good news of Jesus Christ... they just happen to do it with the volume turned way up.

"We believe the best music comes when you're open and honest about what's inside you," says lead singer/songwriter/guitarist Matt Hammit. "It's always been a no-brainer for us to sing about what we believe. That's where our inspiration comes from." Together since 1996, Sanctus Real has found no shortage of admirers across Ohio and the upper Midwest. In fact, the band has toured all over the country, playing churches, clubs, bars, coffee houses, any place where they can spread their positive message of hope and faith. Now, teaming with producer and former Grammatrain member Pete Stewart (TobyMac, Tait), they've written and recorded the album of their lives.

As prelude to the release of SAY IT LOUD, Sanctus Real will be joining the 2002 Festival Con Dios fall tour. With a line-up including Audio Adrenaline, Toby Mac, Mercy Me, Out of Eden, and a crowd-pleasing round of extreme games, the tour promises to top last year's spectacle. "We're very excited about it," says bassist Steve Goodrum. "I wouldn't mind giving the motocross a try actually."

That willingness to take on challenges has typified the members of Sanctus Real from the very start. As 10th-graders at Toledo Christian School, schoolmates Matt Hammitt and guitarist Chris Rohman formed Sanctus Real to serve as musical backdrop for youth worship services. Thanks to loving families, both committed their lives to Christ at an early age. Once Matt and Chris started writing and playing together, the two realized they could best serve God by using their musical gifts to reach out to others. Says Chris, "Seeing the influence music can have on people, especially when you write and play from the heart, we were inspired to write good music with a positive message."

Adding drummer Mark Graalman dramatically expanded their sound. Mark had had his life turned around as a young teen when he attended a weekend youth revival. "Seeing 2000 kids on fire for God grabbed my attention and changed my heart," he recalls. The band had no trouble finding gigs, even when they were still in high school. After graduation, Sanctus Real kicked it up a notch, especially when Colorado native Steve Goodrum joined the line-up as the new bass player. The son of a pastor and a former Bible College student, Steve provided the last link in the Sanctus Real chain.

Over the years, the band has released a string of increasingly successful independent CDs including last year's "Nothing to Lose," produced by Skidd Mills. In 2000, they entered that Best Band contest sponsored by WIOT-FM, a local classic rock station. "We heard about it and entered at the last minute," remembers Matt. "We came in #1, then got a chance to play our first club show, followed by several months of touring. So far we've played all over the country."

The next step required moving up from local indie band to signing with a major label. Not surpassingly, the guys took a hands-on approach. "Chris and I went to GMA [Gospel Music Association] Week in Nashville with our backpacks filled with copies of our last indie CD," says Mark. "We passed them out to everyone we saw. A week later, the phone started ringing off the hook. Sparrow execs flew to Toledo, saw us play, and the rest is history." Most importantly, the band has seen real life results since coalescing as a band. "People that normally would not respond to our kind of music have found out about us, come to our shows, and had their eyes opened," says Steve. "Some have accepted Christ." Little things can sometimes make a big difference.

With the new album nearly done, and Sanctus Real on the verge of much greater success, the band remains calmly focused. "The #1 thing for us is being real," says Mark, "just as our name implies. Our songs talk about our real-life experiences and relationships, especially our relationship with God. More than anything, we hope people will see how much we love God." With the impending release of SAY IT LOUD, that ought to come through very loud and clear.

News: "37th annual Dove nominees to be announced February 1st in Nashville" by Greg Webb

2006-01-13T22:00:00.000-08:00

Rebecca St. James and Kirk Franklin will announce the nominations for the37th annual GMA Music Awards (aka The Dove Awards) on Wednesday February 1. The nominations will be announced live at 1:30 pm CT in the Crockett Ballroom of the Hilton Nashville Downtown. St. James and Franklin will also host the GMA Music Awards ceremony, scheduled for Wednesday, April 5.

The deadline for GMA members to vote for Dove nominations is Friday, Jan. 20th.

Tickets for the GMA Music Awards are now on sale at www.gmamusicawards.com.

News: "Former Avalon member Cherie Adams to appear on TBN" by Greg Webb

2006-01-13T21:58:00.000-08:00

Cherie Adams, former member of Sparrow Records group Avalon, will appear on Trinity Broadcasting Network's Praise the Lord program with host, Pastor Charles Cowan, featuring songs from her critically acclaimed debut solo CD, The Sweet Life. The program is slated to air Friday, January 13th at 9:00 p.m. CST. The Sweet Life, Adams' first solo offering, showcases Adams as a songwriter in her own right, having written or co-written 8 of the 11 songs with heavyweights that include Robert White Johnson (who wrote for Celine Dion) and fellow artists Scott Krippayne, Paul Brandt, and Cindy Morgan. "There's a story behind every song on this record," explains Adams. "Sometimes I wrote these songs from a strong conviction and belief in what I was writing but other times, I had to draw from what I'm learning about God and just write these songs in total faith."

Adams, who was part of Avalon from 1998 to 2002, has numerous radio hits and accolades to her credit including an American Music Award, two Dove awards, two gold records and two Grammy nominations. "Water" is Adams' first #1 radio single from The Sweet Life and as a songwriter in her own right.

Adams, a much sought after speaker, singer, songwriter and author, is currently working on a new book project. For more information on Cherie Adams and to view DPK, visit www.fruitionartistagency.com/cherieadams.php

News: "Passion '06 comes to a close; draws more than 18,000 students" by Greg Webb

2006-01-13T21:50:00.000-08:00

Passion 06 concluded in downtown Nashville on Thursday, January 5, as Passion Conferences founder/director Louie Giglio encouraged students to return to campus and let ‘Passion’ begin.

“We’re not sending you to Africa or on a summer mission adventure, because that’s not where you’re going when you leave Nashville today. We’re sending you back home today, and that’s where Passion starts, right then and there, where God can make a difference in your world.”

The heartbeat of Passion is to send students to campuses, to see campuses come back to life, and Giglio encouraged students to live an authentic, vibrant, real Christian life. “People living in darkness will be drawn to your light and ask, ‘What is your deal?’ It’s our heart that you can answer in a normal, conversational, relational way and you’re able to tell them the story of God.”

Talking from Colossians 3:17, “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus,” Giglio exhorted students to follow the stirring in their hearts, whether that be in church ministry, fashion design, architecture, filmmaking, etc. “It’s not about what you do; it’s about whatever you do for the sake of showing Jesus to the world. If this is going to work, you must love God supremely, engage the culture with excellence, and connect in a community of faith.”

Throughout the conference, students shared their Passion experiences in the Graffiti area of the Go Center, offering expressions of art, written prayer and declarations on the backdrops provided. Pieced together and raised as a curtain at the end of the final session, the Graffiti backdrop enclosed the four sides of the main stage and showed the letters spelling “GLORIOUS” around its circumference. Cutting the lights and illuminating the curtain with black lighting, the students’ words and artistic renderings came into view, capping Passion 06 with the offerings of the students to a glorious God.

Passion 06 opened Monday, January 2 at the Gaylord Entertainment Center (GEC) in downtown Nashville at full conference capacity with 18,000 in attendance and students representing all 50 states, 20 countries. Passion 06 was a four-day indoor gathering for college students led by renowned speakers Louie Giglio, John Piper and Beth Moore, among others, as well as artist-worshipers Chris Tomlin, David Crowder Band, Charlie Hall, Matt Redman, Shane and Shane, Nathan and Christy Nockels, and more. Passion 07 will be held in early January 2007 in Atlanta. More information on the gathering and new music available from Passion 06 will be available at www.268generation.com soon.

The unique purpose of Passion is to gather college students from campuses and churches across the nation, uniting them across ministry and denominational lines to seek the face of God together in worship and prayer. Affirming and valuing the work of local churches and campus ministries, Passion seeks to foster unity and connectivity among them, encouraging them to draw strength and encouragement from each other, resulting in a louder anthem of God’s renown.

Are you planning on attending any Christian music festivals this summer?
Creation	4%
Spirit West Coast	5%
Cornerstone	5%
Other	37%
Don't plan on attending any festivals	49%