Billboard names decade's top Christian artists, albums and songs

Billboard magazine has released its "Best of the 2000s" lists, revealing its selection of the top artists, songs and albums from 2000 to 2009.

The following are US chart Billboard’s "Top 10" Christian and Gospel artists, songs, and albums lists for the decade, based on sales, streaming and radio play.

Best of the 2000s: Christian Song Artists
1. MercyMe
2. Casting Crowns
3. Jeremy Camp
4. Chris Tomlin
5. Third Day
6. Matthew West
7. Newsboys
8. Big Daddy Weave
9. Brandon Heath
10. TobyMac

Best of the 2000s: Christian Songs
1. “Word of God Speak” - MercyMe
2. “My Savior, My God” – Aaron Shust
3. “By Your Side” – Tenth Avenue North
4. “The Motions” – Matthew West
5. “Give Me Your Eyes” – Brandon Heath
6. “East to West” – Casting Crowns
7. “Blessed Be Your Name” – tree63
8. “There Will Be A Day” – Jeremy Camp
9. “You Are My King (Amazing Love…) - Newsboys
10. “Voice of Truth” – Casting Crowns

Best of the 2000s: Christian Album Artists
1. P.O.D.
2. Michael W. Smith
3. Third Day
4. MercyMe
5. Casting Crowns
6. Switchfoot
7. Kirk Franklin
8. Yolanda Adams
9. Mary Mary
10. Steven Curtis Chapman

Best of the 2000s: Christian Albums
1. Satellite – P.O.D.
2. The Beautiful Letdown – Switchfoot
3. Precious Memories – Alan Jackson
4. Almost There – MercyMe
5. Songs 4 Worship: Shout to The Lord - Various Artists
6. Christmas Extraordinaire – Mannheim Steamroller
7. Worship – Michael W. Smith
8. Mountain High… Valley Low – Yolanda Adams
9. Flyleaf – Flyleaf
10. Live in London and More… - Donnie McClurkin

Not So Innocent?

I've always had only positive thoughts about Relient K, but that's been somewhat tainted recently. Matt broke up with his fiance, which is sad, but made more tragic by her claims that he cheated on her. We all sin and I don't expect him or other Christian artists to be perfect and I typically don't comment on news like this because I want to focus on how Christians are positively impacting culture. However, his apparent reaction leaves something to be desired; plus the news he dated Katy Perry (!) is worth noting.

Plumb Has Most Popular Dance Song in the Country

Few artists display the versatility and cross-format appeal of Plumb, who rises this week to her first No. 1 on Billboard's Dance Club/Play Songs chart, as "Hang On" lifts to #1.

The singer/songwriter, aka Tiffany Arbuckle Lee, reached No. 3 on the EDM charts with her sole previous entry, "In My Arms," in 2007. The song led Billboard's Hot Dance Airplay chart and crossed over to a No. 10 peak on Adult Contemporary.

"In My Arms" originally appeared on Plumb's 2007 album "Blink," a collection of lullabies written after the birth of her first two children. That song and her first Hot Dance Airplay hit, the No. 5-peaking "Cut" in 2006, were first released as ballads before being remixed to the delight of clubgoers.

While enjoying success at dance and adult formats, Plumb continues to receive support at her home Christian genre. As "Hang On" has scored acceptance in dance circles, "God Shaped Hole" climbed to No. 32 on Christian Songs last month. Both songs appear on her newly-released album, "Beautiful History - A Hits Collection."

Plumb told Billboard that her chart-topping success is rewarding on both a personal and professional level.

"'Hang On' was written about finding hope when you feel hopeless.

"For it to be No. 1 is not just a fantastic feeling, it's incredibly satisfying knowing I gave my fans what they wanted."

'Blind Side' No. 1 at box office

Football drama "The Blind Side" rose to first place at the box office this weekend with $20.4 million.

After settling for second place behind "The Twilight Saga: New Moon" the past two weeks, "Blind Side" showed its legs by dropping only 49 percent and overtaking the vampire phenomenon. "Blind Side," which received mediocre reviews but obtained a rare "A+" rating from CinemaScore moviegoers, has reached a cumulative gross of $129.3 million. It should have no trouble passing "The Proposal's" $164 million total to become Bullock's biggest hit.

The inspiring, based-on-a-true-story film has been gaining fans in the Christian community. Reviewers for Christian publications as well as mega-church pastors have been raving about the Hollywood film, which gives credit to the Christian faith for the good deed performed by the Tuohy family.

With unapologetically Christian characters, “The Blind Side” stars popular actress Sandra Bullock as Leigh Ann Tuohy

Casting Crowns Helps the World Hear

Casting Crowns' latest album, Until The Whole World Hears sold 167,432 copies its first week, landing at No. 4 on Billboard's Top 200 chart. That makes Casting Crowns the third strongest album debut in the nation on Billboard's Top 200 Chart, behind John Mayer and Norah Jones.

In addition, the band had another strong sales week as its recent RIAA certified Gold 2008 Christmas album Peace On Earth sold over 56K units this week alone.

Casting Crowns' 2003 self-titled debut has sold 1.7 million units, according to Nielsen SoundScan, spawning such hits as "Voice of Truth" and "Who Am I." The band followed with 2005's "Lifesong," which has sold 1.2 million units. "The Altar and the Door," released in 2007, has sold 949,000 copies. Along the way, the act has also issued a 2008 Christmas collection, "Peace on Earth," and three live projects.

Skillet's Comatose Goes Gold

Rockers Skillet’s 2006 release, Comatose, has been certified Gold by the RIAA, while their latest effort, Awake, which debuted on the Billboard Top 200 at No. 2, has surpassed 200,000 units in just 12 weeks.

Flyleaf Drops in at #8

Memento Mori, the new album from FLYLEAF, debuted at No. 8 on The Billboard 200, selling 56,400 copies in its first week of release according to Nielsen SoundScan. It was produced by Howard Benson who also has Daughtry, Third Day, Creed, Mae, Relient K, Skillet and P.O.D. to his credits. It's interesting how he continues to work with Christian artists.

Foreigner's Lou Gramm Knows What Love Is

Lou Gramm is interviewed by the 700 Club. Interesting learnings include that he takes 16 prescribed medications twice a day because of a brain tumor that almost killed him.

He became a Christian after checking himself into rehab and soon afterwards found himself praying the sinner’s prayer with a staff pastor.

Steven Curtis Chapman Featured on CNN.com

Steven Curtis Chapman is being featured on the home page of CNN.com. The article deals with how he uses music to cope with the loss of his daughter.

Carrie Underwood Places Christian Songs on her iTunes Playlist

Carrie Underwood lists four Christian songs on her iTunes playlist: Casting Crowns' 'Praise You in this Storm,' PCD's 'Revelation Song' and two tracks from Thousand Foot Krutch's new album "Welcome To The Masquerade."

Check out what she has to say:

"Fire It Up": "I love love love this band. They can do it all! Awesome. Trevor has amazing vocals paired with GIANT guitars. Makes me jump around the room!"

"Already Home": "Once again, I love this band. This song is just great ...enough said!"

"Praise You in This Storm": "There are times in everyone's lives where things aren't so good and it becomes easier to blame our problems on others. This song reminds us to praise God even in the worst of times, and we'll get through it because He's always with us."

"Revelation Song": "Awesome song"

Dr. James Dobson leaving Focus on the Family radio show and ministry

Focus on the Family Founder James C. Dobson will leave the ministry as its primary radio voice at the end of February, the ministry announced.

Jim Daly, the ministry's president and CEO, explains that "Dr. Dobson's departure from the radio program and from official affiliation with the organization he founded in 1977 is just the 'third chapter in a transition that began in 2003,' when Dr. Dobson stepped down as Focus president."

Dr. Dobson later explained that the board did ask for his resignation at a meeting last week, but was emphatic that there was "not one word of criticism or conflict" spoken during the meeting, and the entire process was conducted with love. After 32 years of service with the ministry he founded, it's time to put closure to the phased transition.

Dr. Dobson is not ill, he hasn't committed some transgression nor are he and the board at odds, and Focus on the Family will go on.

Dr. Dobson's comments can be heard on the Focus on the Family site.

Another Poor Example of 'Girl Power'

New site, CMDish.com unveils how yet another former Christian singer (remember Katy Perry) has crossed over to the secular side, but not in a positive way in which we have become accustomed.

Maria first entered the CCM scene when she performed guest vocals with Jody McBrayer on the song “Never Alone” which received a fair amount of radio airplay.

In 2008, Maria moved to Atlanta, was signed to R&B singer Ne-Yo’s label and began working on her album that is now slated for a December 29th release. Based on the available singles, the lyrics are sexually suggestive as typical of pop music these days. However, just about all of the interviews that CMDish has sorted through featuring quotes from Maria don’t seem to indiciate that she has given up her Christian upbringing. Maria is upfront about her time in the CCM bubble and seems to have no regrets.

Jason Castro Explains Why He Is Second

I Am Second has released a video of American Idol alum, Jason Castro.  In the video, he explains how he was having difficulty choosing a song during 80s week on American Idol.  He selected "Hallelujah" which propelled him into the final four.   He speaks of how Hallelujah is a special word reserved for God and how excited he was to sing the word in front of millions.

Owl City's 'Fireflies' Lands At No. 1

Adam Young, better known as Owl City, moves to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with "Fireflies." The track earns the Digital Gainer honor, moving to #1 on Digital Songs chart. The track also moves into the top 30 of Radio Songs in just its third week. The track's popularity is spurring sales of Owl City's debut "Ocean Eyes" as it leaps into the top 10 of the Billboard 200.

Adam shares on his MySpace site: "I follow Jesus Christ Wholeheartedly. He is my life, my strength, my all." His bio in part reads: "Adam Young has been clear since his start in the music industry that although he is a devout Christian he does not want to be put in one box as far as his music goes, it is not Christian Pop, it is not Electronica, it is not Disco Pop, it isn't Synthetically Engineered it simply is music by Owl City."

Large Market CCM Station airing mainstream music

CMDish is reporting that to the dismay of some listeners, The River 102.3 (KPEZ-FM), an Austin TX based Christian AC radio station, recently introduced mainstream titles into their lineup.

Yes.com, which tracks radio station airplay in many markets across the country, revealed that one particular hour of programming on The River was only about 40% Christian.

In an interview with CMDish.com, The River Program Director, Gary Walsh said that the decision to add mainstream music to the station’s playlist was a mutual and local decision and that Clear Channel didn’t shove the idea down their throat.

Over the years, Christian radio stations have begun playing crossover mainstream acts like The Fray and Lifehouse, but to play secular acts like Kelly Clarkson and Gwen Stefani is very rare with large market Christian stations.

According to Walsh, The River has amazingly already captured nearly 80% of the Christian audience in the Austin market. However, their mission is to reach all families in Austin, not just those who consider themselves to be Christians.

Should a Christian Ministry Play Host to Bands With a Message Contrary to the Gospel?

Can a Christian ministry play host to bands with a message contrary to the Gospel? Gospel Soundcheck has facilitated such a debate the past few weeks due to Rocketown's controversial hosting of Satanic bands for a night of concerts. Links here and here.

Relient K Hits Billboard Chart at #15

The latest from GRAMMY® nominated Relient K, Forget and Not Slow Down, debuted at #15 on the Billboard Top 200.

Concert of the Decade?

Watch live performances from Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Casting Crowns, MercyMe, Natalie Grant and Kirk Franklin on Monday October 12. The artists have all donated their time and expenses to support the GMA.

“In a time of restricted sponsorship dollar availability and financial hardships faced by many in our community, the GMA has continued to be there for all of us, offering first class events, tackling important legislative issues and promoting the genre to the world through the Dove Awards. The organization faces financial obstacles that require all of our help to overcome. This dinner concert is a way to not only ensure the viability of GMA in the future, but to have the concert experience of a lifetime,” Ed Leonard, chairman of the GMA Board of Directors, said.

Mat Kearney teams with Kris Allen

Mat Kearney has been heard everywhere from "Grey's Anatomy" to on tour with Keane. The next place the singer/songwriter hopes to hear his work is the debut of "American Idol" winner Kris Allen.

Kearney teamed up with Kris in early August to write a tune (watch interview with MTV News below).

Amid a flurry of the usual "Idol" collaborators, Allen surprised many when he announced that he was also working with Kearney according to MTV. The singer/songwriter was just as surprised. "I think [Kris] was just a fan," Kearney said of how they ended up collaborating. "What he told me was that he was just picking bands that he liked." (Those bands apparently include Semisonic, Daughtry, the Fray and the Calling — members from each of those groups have all been mentioned in connection with Kris' album.)

MTV Shows

Newboys Kick Off Fall Tour With New Lead Michael Tait

Now we'll see how Newsboys fans really feel about Michael Tait at the helm of the Newsboys. They kick off their Fall "The Way We Roll" tour today, with special guests Seventh Day Slumber and Bread of Stone, and it'll be interesting to track ticket sales.

This is the Newsboys' first full-length tour featuring new front man Michael Tait, who stepped into the role mid-tour earlier this year after longtime leader Peter Furler decided to take a more behind-the-scenes role.

The change took many Newsboys' fans by surprise and was met with a mixed emotions. Some fans thought the change was good; some thought it was too much DC Talk mixed with Newsboys. But most were disappointed they didn't know ahead of time that Tait had taken over the lead spot and weren't offered the opportunity for a refund.

Wilson Phillips Star Returns Amidst Family Crisis

Chynna Phillips, who found fame as part of the pop trio Wilson Phillips, is back with a Christian pop album. She teamed up with singer songwriter Vaughn Penn and for their release, One Reason, hit stores on the 22nd.

The very next day, Chynna Phillips' half sister Mackenzie Phillps released her memoir, "High On Arrival," in which she revealed that she'd had an on-again-off-again 'consensual relationship' with her father John Phillips, of the 60s folk group The Mama and the Papas.

Chynna Phillips is married to actor Billy Baldwin, whom she described to People Magazine as "an evolving Christian." Phillips became a Christian as a teen, but rediscovered her faith years later.

Vaughn Penn, the other half of the new duo, committed her music career to God during a life-threatening medical condition four years ago, and began to write songs to specifically encourage others to develop a relationship with Christ.

David Crowder Band Experiences Highest Sales Yet

David Crowder*Band’s latest, Church Music, premieres at the No. 11 position on the Billboard Top 200 raking in over 35,000 units the first week. Church Music also peaked at No. 3 on the iTunes® Overall Album chart.

“The street week results for The David Crowder*Band are extremely rewarding, especially in the current market climate, and reflect both the amazing creativity Church Music embodies and the powerful story the Crowder clan has woven together around this new release,” explains sixstepsrecords founder and director Louie Giglio. “Crowder continues to carve out a unique space on the musical landscape with the band's forward-thinking approach to our time-honored faith. I'm proud of the band's efforts, and those of our dedicated sixsteps/Sparrow team."

Church Music is the band’s highest debut to date with a 10% increase from the band’s previous release in 2007 of Remedy. This increase comes despite the market’s decrease.

Kris Allen Releases First Single

Kris Allen, American Idol Season 8 winner, has released his first single, "Live Like We're Dying."

The first song is compelling. Partial lyrics:

"Sometimes we fall down and can't get back up
We're hiding behind skin that's too tough
How come we don't say I love you enough
Till it's too late, it's not too late

Our hearts are hungry for a food that won't come
We could make a feast from these crumbs
And we're all staring down the barrel of a gun
So if your life flashed before you
What would you wish you would've done?

Yeah gotta start
Lookin' at the hand of the time we've been given here
This is all we got and we gotta start pickin' it
Every second counts on a clock that's tickin'
Gotta live like were dying

We only got
864 hundred seconds in a day to
Turn it all around or throw it all away
We gotta tell 'em that we love 'em
While we got the chance to say
Gotta live like we're dying"

Jennifer Knapp Crawls Out of Her Hole

Jennifer Knapp, whose sudden disappearance from the music scene has prompted many questions over the years, has returned. She's posted a new song to her site and according to her Tweets she plans to be in the studio in November with an anticipated release in early 2010.

Iconic TV actor Gavin Macleod Stars in Christian Film

As Murray Slaughter, he wrote for airhead anchor Ted Baxter on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" for seven years. As Merrill Stubing, he captained the "Love Boat" for nearly a decade after that. Today, iconic TV actor Gavin Macleod says "I know who my admiral is," referring to his faith in God.

Macleod, 78, is a born again Christian now piloting a career in the Christian film industry, and starring in the movie "The Secrets of Jonathan Perry," which opens this weekend.

"I've worked with some of the biggest names in Hollywood, Cary Grant, Tony Curtis, Gregory Peck, Mary Tyler Moore," he told FOX News in an exclusive interview. "[But] the biggest honor I have ever had was to play the role of Jonathan Sperry in this simple but special film."

Skillet Debuts at #2 on Billboard 200

Skillet debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 with Awake, selling 68,000. That is the group's best sales week yet and highest chart position. Skillet's last album, 2006's Comatose, has quietly sold 462,000 to date.

Needtobreathe debuts at #20

Needtobreathe's The Outsiders debuts at #20 on the Billboard 200 and #9 on the Rock Albums charts.

P.O.D. Guitarist Enlists Alt-Rock Vets For New Band

Former members of Papa Roach, Chevelle and Rock Star Supernova have joined P.O.D. guitarist Marcos Curiel in a new band, Daylight Division, that's posted two tracks online and is in the midst of writing and recording its first album.

The Definition of Irony

The Afters, who once released a song and video entitled "MySpace Girl," recently updated their MySpace blog to read:

so its been awhile
Hello myspace! So it's been a while since I posted a blog! It's because I've been twittering and facebooking! Anyway thank you all for following us and keeping us making and playing music. We're writing this week and next in Nashville and L.A. The new music is awesome hang in there and we'll get you a new record of awesome music in the spring. But I digress. Twitter? Facebook? Or myspace? Your thoughts Matt

Kutless' "Strong Tower" Goes Gold

Kutless's worship album Strong Tower was awarded RIAA Gold Certification. Gold Certification was also awarded for their Long-Form video "Live From Portland."

The rockers are readying the release of their second worship album, It Is Well, in October.

TFK Cancels Creation Festival Appearance

Thousand Foot Krutch announced that they will not be performing at Creation Northwest this Friday due to frontman Trevor McNevan's emergency surgery late yesterday evening. McNevan was taken to the emergency room for appendicitis, which resulted in an routine appendectomy around 8 p.m..

Brad Pitt: There is No God

Brad Pitt in an interview with German magazine Bild reveals his thoughts on God.

BILD: Have you found happiness in life?

Brad Pitt (nodding): Hm – yes. I am on the path I want to be on.”

BILD: Do you believe in God?
Brad Pitt (smiling): “No, no, no!”

BILD: Is your soul spiritual?
Brad Pitt: “No, no, no! I’m probably 20 per cent atheist and 80 per cent agnostic. I don’t think anyone really knows. You’ll either find out or not when you get there, until then there’s no point thinking about it.

Diamond Rio to Share "The Reason"

Diamond Rio are breaking new ground with the release of their first album (11th overall) to the Christian market. 'The Reason' releases September 22 in conjunction with their autobiography, 'Beautiful Mess.'

The group, named Vocal Group of the Year twice by the Country Music Association and four times by the Academy of Country Music, says the upcoming disc is more a revelation of who they are than a change in direction for them. "We're not preaching, but we're saying, 'This is who I am and I'm proud of it'," he says. "God is working and we're here for a reason."

This isn't the first time for Diamond Rio to show their spiritual side. Their Christian beliefs are also showcased in their hits 'I Believe,' 'Mama Don't Forget to Pray for Me' and 'One More Day.'

Daughtry tops albums chart, outsells Michael Jackson

For the past three weeks in a row, Michael Jackson's "Number Ones" has been the biggest-selling album in the country. Each time, it's been disqualified from Billboard's flagship Billboard 200 chart, along with all Jackson's other releases, due to its age.

For the first time in a month, the #1 album on the Billboard 200 is actually the #1 selling album. That unusual run of asterisked Billboard 200 chart-toppers is over. Daughtry finally put an end to Jackson's posthumous flummoxing of the Billboard rules as "Leave This Town" bows atop the chart with 269,000 copies sold.

That's a bit of a drop-off from the 304,000 that the first album sold when it hit shelves in 2006, but it's more than anyone else could muster in this sales frame.

Christian power-pop teens pureNRG squeak in at No. 20 with 22,000 copies sold.

Tree63 Disbands

According to JFH, South African band Tree63 has also decided to part ways. Lead Vocalist John Ellis has taken some time off, but will be working on his own music as well as continuing to perform classic Tree63 songs live. The rest of the guys are continuing to pursue their own separate music ventures.

Stryper Marks Milestone with New CD and 25th Anniversary Tour

Stryper released their new studio album, Murder By Pride, which was released today - twenty-five years to the day after the release of their debut EP, The Yellow and Black Attack.

The band will kick off a 25th Anniversary Tour in September, touring throughout the U.S. before heading out on an international run in early 2010. In addition to their hits and fan favorites, Stryper will perform songs from their latest studio album Murder by Pride.

The tour will be a two set show. The first set will be new Stryper material and include current bassist Tracy Ferrie, along with original members Michael Sweet, Robert Sweet and Oz Fox. The second set will feature all four original members, including original bassist Tim Gaines, wearing new yellow and black stage outfits from the original designer and performing the band's hits from the last twenty-five years.

The 25th Anniversary Tour will be a family project, with Michael Sweet Jr.'s band Flight Patterns opening all dates. Flight Patterns' debut album will be released this fall on Fifty Three Five Records.

Murder by Pride includes a cover of the BOSTON song "Peace of Mind" (featuring BOSTON founder, guitarist and songwriter Tom Scholz on the recording). Ironically, Stryper had recorded "Peace of Mind" and planned to include it on Murder by Pride long before Michael Sweet was asked to join BOSTON on vocals and guitar for their 54-city headlining tour of North America in summer 2008.

Free Music from Microsoft

According to Free Christian Music Blog, Microsoft is making it possible for you to get free music downloads by simply playing games. More info here.

It's a Tough Economy, So Here Are Some Free Tunes

There are many sources of legal free music that you can take advantage of to expand your musical canvas. Here's an updated representative list:

* hearitfirst.com
* iTickets.com
* artist pages on social sites such as purevolume.com, MySpace.com
* Gospelmusicchannel.com
* iTunes (new each Tuesday)
* Amazon.com (new each Tuesday)
* Walmart.com (new each Tuesday)
* Jesusfreakhideout.com
* 20 The Countdown Magazine
* Tangle

This site seeks them out for you:
Free Christian Music blog

This site has a nice list.

CCM To Relaunch Magazine In Digital Format

CCM Magazine, which ended print publication last year, has announced that it's relaunching the magazine in digital format. According to a press release, each issue of CCM will focus on new Christian music set to release during the quarter of publication.

Apparently, the mag had a soft launch last quarter because the 'magazine' had an article about Michael Tait joining the Newsboys.

Third Day to Be Inducted Into GA Music Hall of Fame

Third Day received the news this week that the Atlanta-based group has been selected as a new inductee into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame. The 31st Annual Georgia Music Hall of Fame Awards Show takes place Saturday, Sept. 19, 2009, at the Georgia World Conference Center in Atlanta, GA. The show will broadcast live on Georgia Public Broadcasting viewed locally on Atlanta’s Channel 8.

Other honorees to be inducted during the awards show include Collective Soul. Previous inductees include legendary musicians Ray Charles, Alan Jackson and Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Downhere's Marc Martel Sings Opera

As if there was any doubt about the talent of one of my current favorite bands, check out this video of Marc Martel, co-lead vocalist for Downhere.

Stryper's Oz Fox Marries Hookers for Jesus' Annie Lobért

Stryper guitarist Oz Fox and founder of Hookers for Jesus Annie Lobért are set to be married yesterday, June 5. Fox and Lobért met in February 2008.

New Releases on My Radar

Dates according to Jesus Freak Hideout:

June 16
Jonas Brothers - Lines, Vines and Trying Times [Disney]

July 14
Mark Schultz - Closer Than I've Ever Been [Word]
various artists - Fireproof Original Motion Picture Soundtrack [Reunion]
various artists - Glory Revealed II: The Word Of God in Worship [Reunion]

July 21
Stryper - Murder By Pride [Big3]

August ??
Flyleaf - Memento Mori [Octone]

August 11
Kevin Max - Cotes d'Armor [dPulse]
Britt Nicole - The Lost Get Found [Sparrow]

August 25
Leeland - Love Is On The Move [Essential]
Skillet - Awake [INO]
Phil Stacey - Into The Light [Reunion]

September ??
Switchfoot - Hello Hurricane [Credential]

September 8
Robbie Seay Band - untitled [Sparrow]

September 22
BarlowGirl - Love & War [Fervent]
Pillar - untitled [Essential]

October ??
Casting Crowns - untitled [Reunion]

November ??
TobyMac - untitled [Forefront]

Further In The Future...
Steven Curtis Chapman - untitled [Sparrow]
Paul Colman - All My Life (Digital EP) [Inpop]
Fair - untitled [Tooth & Nail]
NEEDTOBREATHE - The Outsiders [Word]
Relient K - Forget And Not Slow Down [Mono Vs Stereo] -- Summer
Sanctus Real - untitled [Sparrow] -- February, 2010
Sixpence None The Richer - untitled [Nettwerk]
Rebecca St. James - untitled [Forefront]
Switchfoot - Vice Verses [Credential] -- Sometime 2010

Did Christians Help Kris?

Kris Allen was the underdog going into the "American Idol" finale on Wednesday evening. So was it the Christian vote that prevailed in Allen's favor?

The 23-year-old UCA student has been on the worship team at New Life Church for years, but unlike previous winners such as Jordin Sparks and Carrie Underwood who made their faith very well known, Allen consciously refrained from making mention of his virtuous values throughout the competition.

"This is a singing competition, not a church thing," Allen told Fox News earlier this week while Lambert added that the "vote is based on talent and performing, not religion."

Support for Kris most likely surged over the last week when Danny Gokey (who was extremely open about his involvement with the church) was voted off and thus Christians turned their full devotion to Allen.

Allen spent much of the season in the shadow of fellow worship leader Danny Gokey, who many assumed would make it to the finals with Lambert. Gokey's poignant personal story (his wife passed away just four months before he auditioned for the show) and soulful sound helped propel him to the finals.

But Allen proved that his ability to interpret songs and play instruments was a stronger asset than either Gokey's soulful vocals and back story or Lambert's big vocals and theatrical stage persona.

Worship Leader in American Idol finale

The two-part finale of juggernaut "American Idol" begins tonight. The show has become such a vehicle to promote Adam Lambert, it has gotten sickening. His competition is Kris Allen, a 23-year-old worship leader at New Life Church in Conway, Ark., who was doing missionary work in Asia and Africa during the years Lambert was building his pop resume.

Allen is one of several actively Christian musicians to make this year's Top 10, most notably being sentimental favorite Danny Gokey who finished third.

Newsboys CD premieres at #28

The Newsboys' latest CD, In The Hands Of God, premieres at #28 on the Billboard 200, their highest debut ever beating Adoration which peaked at #33.

Chynna Phillips in new Christian Duo

Chynna Phillips comes with a great musical pedigree. Besides her famous musical parents (The Mamas & the Papas), in the '90s she teamed with sisters Carnie & Wendy Wilson (daughters of Beach Boys legend Brian Wilson) to form Wilson Phillips. Their first album produced three #1 singles and sales of over 10 million.

Chynna briefly pursued a solo career and got married to Billy Baldwin, all the while searching for true fulfillment. She began to notice the changes in her brother-in-law Stephen Baldwin. When he told her that he had given his life to Christ, she laughed.
“I had a deluded image of what it meant to be a Christian,” she says. “I thought you had to be perfect, and it’s the exact opposite.” she shares.

Though first skeptical of the positive changes in Stephen and his wife Kennya, she began to inquire about their new relationship with Jesus Christ. She committed her life to Christ in 2003.

Now she's forming a new Christian duo Chynna & Vaughn, with Vaughn Penn and even presented at this year's Dove Awards.

Jars of Clay Premiere at #29

Jars of Clay's new CD, The Long Fall Back To Earth, premieres at #29 on the Billboard 200.

Carrie Prejean Says 'God Was Testing My Faith'

Carrie Prejean is now perhaps the most famous runner-up in Miss USA history. When a Miss USA judge, the gossip blogger and openly-gay Perez Hilton, asked about her stance on same-sex marriage, she replied:

"I think that I believe that a marriage should be between a man and a woman. No offense to anybody out there, but that's how I was raised." The answer likely cost her the Miss USA crown.

In an interview with Fox News, Prejean talks about being "tested" by God, the outpouring of support, and the first thing she and her family did after the show.

"Hollywood isn’t just liberal, it is fearfully liberal. It is easier in Hollywood to say you’re a drug addict or to pretty much anything than to admit to being a committed Christian," media expert and longtime Hollywood publicist, Michael Levine of Levine Communications, told FOXnews.com.

Another NFL Player Releases Christian CD

NFL Super Bowl winning player Ben Utecht is the starting tight end for the Cincinnati Bengals, but this year’s off-season introduces Utecht as a singer and musician to the world. His self-titled debut album launches today.

“Ben Utecht is a talented football player. He started at Tight End for my team, the Indianapolis Colts, in Super Bowl XLI and helped us beat the Chicago Bears. However, I always thought his real impact would be in Christian music. Ben has a tremendous voice and a passion for music, but more than that, he believes in the gospel message and that comes through when he sings. I believe God is going to use his musical gift in a special way.” says former NFL head coach, Tony Dungy, who was Utecht’s coach for four years.

It'll be interesting to see if he meets the same level of success as his former teammate, Hunter Smith (Connersvine).

Miley Subjected to Foxx Rant

On his weekly radio show Jamie Foxx encouraged Miley Cyrus to "make a sex tape and grow up!" Other guests in the background can be heard saying "Be like Britney Spears and do some heroin. Be like Lindsay Lohan and start seeing a lesbian...get some crack in your pipe. Now that's what I want." Fox News is reporting.

In response, Billy Ray Cyrus told talk show host Bonnie Hunt: “It was hurtful, there wasn’t nothing funny about it, and quite frankly, I think if I said those things about his daughter he might not find it so comedic.”

Foxx issued an apology on Tuesday's episode of "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno, claiming he meant no harm.

"I have a radio show. We're really the black Howard Stern. We go at everybody. There was a situation with Miley Cyrus, and I just want to say, I apologize for what I said. I didn't mean it maliciously. You know I'm a comedian. You know my heart."

Ted Dekker Lands at #10 with Latest Novel

Ted Dekker's latest novel, BoneMan's Daughters, premieres at #10 on NY Times Bestsellers list.

Country Star to Release Christian CD

With 17 #1s, more than 30 charted singles on the Billboard Hot Country Chart and more than eight million albums sold, platinum-selling country star Tracy Lawrence is releasing an inspirational country music compilation entitled The Rock.

Glenn Beck Shares Easter Story on National Radio

Glenn Beck shared an essay in the first hour of his nationally syndicated talk radio program. Glenn Beck played his previously recorded narration of the Story of Easter set to Pink Floyd music. I found it remarkable that a non-Christian radio show would be this blatant with the story of salvation.

Stryper's 25th Anniversary Tour

Stryper will begin touring in September, hitting approximately 50 cities across America. This will be followed by International tour dates in January and February of 2010.

25 years ago Stryper broke on to the scene with their debut EP Yellow and Black Attack and have since gone on to sell 8 million records worldwide.

The 25th Anniversary Tour will be a 2 set show. The first set will be new Stryper material and include bassist Tracy Ferrie, along with original members Michael Sweet, Robert Sweet, and Oz Fox. The second set will be classic Stryper hits and will be all 4 original members, including original bassist Tim Gaines. Michael Sweet Jr's band will be the opening band on the tour.

Jonas Brothers' first series to debut May 2

JONAS, the new series starring brothers Kevin, Joe, and Nick Jonas debuts May 2 on the Disney Channel. The three brothers play the fictional Lucas brothers, musicians who attend Horace Mantis Academy when they are not on tour as the group JONAS (in the series, the brothers live on Jonas Street, the inspiration for their band name).

Francesca Battistelli #1 on Four Christian Radio Charts

On the heels of recent music features on AOL Music's homepage, ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," NBC's "Biggest Loser," and The Style Network's new reality show "Running In Heels," Francesca Battistelli is #1 on four Christian radio charts.

"Free to be Me" reached #1 this week on all three R&R Christian radio charts: AC-Monitored, AC-Indicator, and CHR, as well as on the Mediabase chart (as printed in USA Today).

"Free to be Me" is the first #1 single from a female at AC since 2005. This is the 5th week in the top spot at CHR, and the second week as #1 at AC-Indicator.

Perhaps Battistelli is a trend buster for Christian music radio.

Shows Feature New Phillip LaRue Songs

"Ghost Whisperer" on CBS and One Tree Hill on The CW feature new single "Found" from Phillip LaRue. The upcoming limited series Harper's Island will feature "Erase and Rewind."

LaRue is not new to the music scene, he has recently filled the role of producer (Krystal Meyers, Tenth Avenue North) and songwriter (Brandon Heath, Tenth Avenue North) since his duo LaRue (with his sister Natalie) called it quits in 2003.

Jon Bon Jovi, Joss Stone, 3 Doors Down Go Gospel

Some of secular music's top acts, among them Michael McDonald, Jon Bon Jovi, Joss Stone and 3 Doors Down, take on Gospel music on "Oh Happy Day: An All-Star Music Celebration."

The collection releases today exclusively at Wal-Mart according to Reuters.

Though artists are sometimes hesitant to talk or sing about their faith, Arnold said it wasn't a concern for 3 Doors Down. "We all grew up in church and we're all Christians. We were happy to do it," he said. "There was no discussion at all of whether or not we should."

"It's something that we'd never really done before, and it seemed like it would be a lot of fun," 3 Doors Down lead vocalist Brad Arnold said of the band's foray into gospel music with "Presence of the Lord." "It seemed like it would also be a challenge because we'd never really recorded that style of song."

According to a press release posted on several of the artists' MySpace pages, the track listing is:
1. Jonny Lang & the Fisk Jubilee Singers "I Believe"
2. 3 Doors Down & the Soul Children of Chicago "Presence of the Lord"
3. Robert Randolph & The Clark Sisters "Higher Ground"
4. Jon Bon Jovi & the Washington Youth Choir "Keep the Faith"
5. Al Green & Heather Headley "People Get Ready"
6. Mavis Staples & Patty Griffin "Waiting for My Child To Come Home"
7. Michael McDonald & the West Angeles COGIC Mass Choir "Storm Before The Calm"
8. Angelique Kidjo "Redemption Song"
9. Aaron Neville & the Mt. Zion Mass Choir "A Change is Gonna Come"
10. Queen Latifah & Jubilation "Oh Happy Day"
11. Joss Stone & Buick Audra "This Little Light Of Mine"

It's Battistelli's Life on NBC and ABC

Francesca Battistelli's "It's Your Life" is currently being featured in the promo for ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" and also was featured on last Tuesday's episode of NBC's "Biggest Loser."

Stephen Baldwin Lends Lohan a Hand

After a weekend in the media spotlight due to a warrant (which was later dropped) being issued for her arrest, Fox News is reporting that Lindsay Lohan is seeking guidance to put her back on a positive path.

The troubled 22-year-old actress will temporarily be in a "therapeutic environment" organized by fellow actors, Stephen and Daniel Baldwin.

Lindsay apparently "wants to remove the negative influences in her life."

It's great to see Stephen is working towards his goal and having a positive impact on the Hollywood community - even if it's just one high profile person.

Mandisa's Loss is a PR Gain

As she nears the release of her sophomore project Freedom (3.24), press is ramping up for American Idol Season 5 finalist Mandisa.

Tonight Extra TV talks with Mandisa about her weight loss in a feature about "Shrinking Idols."

Next week, Inside Edition will air an interview with Mandisa from her Nashville home, discussing her workout routine as well as her new CD.

Last week CNN.com ran a feature that was one of its Top 5 read stories on the news giant’s site.

People magazine also profiled Mandisa in an exclusive online feature last week, which both USA Today and CNN picked up. People also showcased her in their BodyWatch feature inside their current issue.

Worship Leaders Play House of Blues

Delirious? is headlining a concert at the House of Blues Anaheim tomorrow, March 18. The show will also feature Future of Forestry and Worship leader and new artist Travis Ryan.

Ryan serves as a worship pastor at Saddleback Church’s San Clemente campus.

BeBe Winans Accused of Assaulting Ex

BeBe Winans has been charged with misdemeanor domestic assault after a dispute with his ex-wife in Nashville.

An arrest warrant filed Wednesday says 46-year-old Benjamin "BeBe" Winans got into argument with his ex-wife about their children at her home on Feb 13.

The warrant says Debra Winans told authorities Winans pushed her to the ground.

Winans says in a statement that "the allegations are inconsistent with my character."

Winans is a judge on BET's television show "Sunday Best." The four-time Grammy award-winner has recorded gospel albums with his sister CeCe Winans.

South Park Takes on Jonas Bros & Disney

The season premiere of South Park looked, at first, as though it was going to pander to its audience by only making fun of the Jonas Brothers, but according to EW it instead illuminates pop-culture hypocrisy and how our culture sells sex to our youth.

I'm by no means recommending the viewing of South Park, but it's interesting to note how even this series ironically recognizes our culture's perversion of our youth.

Worship Leaders Lead the Way on American Idol

It's interesting to note how many of this year's top 13 American Idol finalists are involved in their church or Christian music.

* Kris Allen - works for his church's worship ministry
* Matt Giraud - has released two indie Christian music CDs
* Danny Gokey - is a music teacher at Faithbuilders Ministry in Milwaukee
* Scott MacIntyre - performs with the Gospel quartet, The MacIntyre Family Singers
* Michael Sarver - leads a praise team at Harvest Church in Jasper, TX

Christian Music Conspiracy?

Relevant Magazine dispels 5 Myths about the Christian Music Industry, including Christian artists can’t “cut it” in the secular world.

Media Bias is No Laughing Matter

Jeff Foxworthy was recently interviewed by Glenn Beck and even a comedian notes the bias in our media:

I've always argued that the media is not an accurate representation of what this country really is. And I think I can say that with some confidence because as a comedian, I have been to all 50 states. I have been to all 50 states many, many times. And I've always argued that most of the media is controlled out of New York and L.A., well, there's 200 million people in between. But their viewpoints aren't often the ones that make the news or the newspapers. And, you know, we've been kind of the quiet majority, but I kind of get a sense now that they're starting to see this little feeling of discontent in that and people are like, no, no, no, you don't speak for us anymore, and I think that's what it's going to take.

Michael Tait is the New Lead Singer for the Newsboys on the Road

After 22 years and more than 2,000 shows, Peter Furler will no longer front the newsboys in concert. Michael Tait will tour with the band as lead singer with Peter making special appearances throughout the year according to a press release by the band.

Peter will continue with the band and his trademark songwriting and production will remain as he focuses his professional career toward future newsboys recordings.

Michael has been on the road with the band over the past weeks working alongside Peter in what has been a positive and enjoyable experience for both parties. It has been a graceful process that both Peter and Michael have worked through as they prepare to make the change in the coming weeks.

Peter states,

“newsboys to me has always been a mission, and I entrust Mike, Jeff, Jody and Duncan to continue all that is in store for us as a band. I’m looking forward to focusing on the band’s studio career and spending time in my own bed after many years in a tour bus and hundreds of thousands of miles on the road.”

Wes Campbell, newsboys manager, explains,

“Whilst the decision to replace Peter on the road was a painstaking one, when the idea of dc Talk vocalist Michael Tait was presented, it was a no-brainer to all of us. No one can replace Peter, but we know Michael will bring a new attitude, energy and vocal style that will thrill our audience. To be able to continue a world class show and still have Peter behind the scenes guiding the career and making of newsboys music is a huge opportunity for all of us. It’s amazing that after many years of touring with dc Talk in the 1990’s, that in 2009 our paths would cross once again. It’s an exciting time for all of us.”

Michael Tait shares:

“When I received the initial call from newsboys to consider joining the band as lead singer, I was speechless! I immediately sought wise counsel and flooded the heavens with endless prayers for insight and vision, and I soon received a clear and definite peace. Last weekend, I had the opportunity to perform my first show as newsboys’ frontman to an audience of 12,000 people. I was completely wrapped in love and support by newsboys’ fans, who are clearly the best fans on the planet. Now I know this is exactly where I belong in this new and wonderful moment in my life’s history. This is a definite highlight of my career and for my 20+ years of walking with Jesus, and I am humbled, proud and privileged to call myself a newsboy.”

In the coming days, Peter will be releasing a personal statement on the band’s website in more detail.

The band has recently finished recording its new studio album, In The Hands of God, which features Peter as lead vocalist on the entire album. Street date for this record is May 5th.

With five gold albums, sales exceeding six million units, more than 20 No.1 radio hits, and a mantle of Dove Awards as well as Grammy nominations, newsboys has achieved phenomenal success in its two decades together.

More Americans Say They Have No Religion

A wide-ranging study on American religious life found that the percentage of Christians in the nation has declined and more people say they have no religion at all.

Fifteen percent of respondents said they had no religion, an increase from 14.2 percent in 2001 and 8.2 percent in 1990, according to the American Religious Identification Survey.

Northern New England surpassed the Pacific Northwest as the least religious region, with Vermont reporting the highest share of those claiming no religion, at 34 percent. Still, the study found that the numbers of Americans with no religion rose in every state.

"No other religious bloc has kept such a pace in every state," the study's authors said.

In 2008, Christians comprised 76 percent of U.S. adults, compared to about 77 percent in 2001 and about 86 percent in 1990. Researchers said the dwindling ranks of mainline Protestants, including Methodists, Lutherans and Episcopalians, largely explains the shift. Over the last seven years, mainline Protestants dropped from just over 17 percent to 12.9 percent of the population.

The report from The Program on Public Values at Trinity College in Hartford, Conn., surveyed 54,461 adults in English or Spanish from February through November of last year. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 0.5 percentage points. The findings are part of a series of studies on American religion by the program that will later look more closely at reasons behind the trends.

The current survey, being released Monday, found traditional organized religion playing less of a role in many lives. Thirty percent of married couples did not have a religious wedding ceremony and 27 percent of respondents said they did not want a religious funeral.

About 12 percent of Americans believe in a higher power but not the personal God at the core of monotheistic faiths. And, since 1990, a slightly greater share of respondents — 1.2 percent — said they were part of new religious movements, including Scientology, Wicca and Santeria.

The study also found signs of a growing influence of churches that either don't belong to a denomination or play down their membership in a religious group.

Respondents who called themselves "non-denominational Christian" grew from 0.1 percent in 1990 to 3.5 percent last year. Congregations that most often use the term are mega-churches considered "seeker sensitive." They use rock style music and less structured prayer to attract people who don't usually attend church. Researchers also found a small increase in those who prefer being called evangelical or born-again, rather than claim membership in a denomination.

Evangelical or born-again Americans make up 34 percent of all American adults and 45 percent of all Christians and Catholics, the study found. Researchers found that 18 percent of Catholics consider themselves born-again or evangelical, and nearly 39 percent of mainline Protestants prefer those labels. Many mainline Protestant groups are riven by conflict over how they should interpret what the Bible says about gay relationships, salvation and other issues.

The study found that the percentage of Americans who identified themselves as Muslim grew to 0.6 percent of the population, while growth in Eastern religions such as Buddhism slightly slowed.

Kathy Ireland: From Super Model to Role Model

When most people hear Kathy Ireland, they think Sports Illustrated and super model. However, since her rise to stardom, she has become a business woman and outspoken Christian.

In her latest book, Real Solutions for Busy Moms: Your Guide to Success and Sanity, will be published on Apr. 7, Ireland attempts to help families cope with crises including family finances, health, stress, and "most importantly finding wisdom and security in the glory of Christian faith."

Is Peter Furler Leaving The Newsboys?

Gospel Soundcheck is reporting that Peter Furler may be leaving the Newsboys and that former dc Talk member Michael Tait is taking over as lead vocalist!!!

IF this is true, it will fundamentally change the sound of the Newsboys. Tait is a fantastic vocalist, but I can't see him as a Newsboy.

Update: this has been confirmed

Michael Sweet's Wife Succumbs to Cancer

Kyle was diagnosed with cancer in February 2007. She passed away at 8:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, March 5, 2009. You can read a touching letter from Michael on his site.

Kyle's life was dedicated to caring for her husband and home-schooling their two children. Her heart's desire was for their children to attend college. To best honor Kyle's work as a home-school mom there has been a fund set up called The Sweet Children's College Fund.

In lieu of flowers, donations to this fund can be mailed to:

Sweet Children's College Fund
Sovereign Bank
50 Cohasset Avenue
Buzzards Bay, MA 02532

A private funeral service will be held in the coming days.

Michael Sweet is a well-known musician and vocalist, best known as the co-founder and frontman of the band Stryper. Sweet is also a guitarist and vocalist for BOSTON.

Two Times is Not a Charm

In December, Addison Road had all of their gear stolen, but subsequently returned. Shockingly, a thief has hit them again. Over $100,000 worth of stuff was reported stolen just two weeks before the start of their biggest tour yet and eight weeks before the lead singer has her first baby.

Fortunately, the van and trailer have been recovered. The van is in the shop, but the trailer was ruined. The thieves cut into the wall of the trailer to enter. Though they took all of the instruments, gear, and sound equipment, they fortunately left almost all of their merchandise.

Joe Eszterhas Added As Keynote For Biola Media Conf.

In a rare public appearance writer Joe Eszterhas will be the keynote speaker of the 2009 Biola Media Conference. He has written sixteen films that have earned over a billion dollars at the box office.

Eszterhas’s life history is as tumultuous as his movies. From growing up in a refugee camp in Hungary after the Second World War, his life has included everything from abject poverty to unthinkable riches. Once called by Time Magazine “American’s king of sex and violence”, Eszterhas lived the true Hollywood bad boy life. Drinking, drugs, sex, violence, smoking were all part of his daily life. By 2001, the alcohol and smoking had nearly killed him and doctors had removed 80% of a cancerous larynx. Unable to change his ways, he cried out for God to help him. With his new book Crossbearer: A Memoir of Faith, Eszterhas explains the mystery and wonder of how God found him.

Superchick Song Chosen for "Running In Heels" TV Show

Superchick Song Chosen for "Running In Heels" TV Show

Superchick's song "So Beautiful" from Rock What You Got has been selected as the theme song for "Running In Heels," a new realilty program on the Style Network.

Radio Legend Paul Harvey Passes Away

Paul Harvey, who captivated millions of American listeners for nearly six decades with his radio news reports and conservative commentaries, died Saturday. He was 90.

A 2005 recipient of a Presidential Medal of Freedom from President George W. Bush, radio pioneer Paul Harvey and his wife were inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame.

He personalized the news and shared heart-warming tales of average Americans and observations that evoked the heartland, family values and a love of God and country.

Harvey was unapologetic. "I have never pretended to objectivity," he once said. "I have a strong point of view and I share it with my listeners. I have no illusions about changing the world, but to the extent that I can I'd like to shelter your and my little corner of it."

He was renowned for his story-telling abilities and loved to intersperse them with humor. "Nudists in Lakeland, Florida, are upset that outsiders are sneaking a peek through a hole in their fence," he intoned. "The police promise to look into it."

With Paul Harvey's death, radio has lost one of its brightest luminaries.

Focus on the Family's James Dobson steps down

James Dobson, the influential evangelical leader of the Christian ministry Focus on the Family, has stepped down as board chairman, he announced Friday.

During a meeting with employees, Dobson, 72, said the move means he will no longer be involved with the administrative side of the organization, according to spokesman Gary Schneeberger.

But Dobson's public role isn't expected to change. He'll still appear on his daily radio broadcast and as an advocate for socially conservative issues, Schneeberger said.

"There won't be a whole lot of difference," the spokesman said. "You'll still hear him on the radio. You'll still see him on the networks like CNN with Larry King."

Focus on the Family says its broadcasts reach more than 220 million people in 155 countries. Its newsletter, in which Dobson will continue to write, goes to 1.6 million people.

Story of King David Sets Base for New NBC Series

A modern-day retelling of the biblical story of King David will be premiering on NBC in March as a new series according to Christian Post.

“Kings,” created by Michael Green (“Heroes,” “Everwood”), centers on the drama surrounding David Shepherd, a young soldier in the war-torn country of Gilboa, who will rise to fame after inspiring the nation through his fearless rescue of the king’s son. Amid Shepherd's thrust toward destiny and peace for the kingdom, however, the country's power players will go to great lengths to see him fall, blurring the line between his allies and enemies.

The series is expected to draw the religious and the non-religious – the latter because of epic style and dramatic feel, and the former because it is expected to stick closely to the Old Testament, which Green says provides enough material to shape at least several seasons.

“Strangely enough, they've not yet asked us to censor the Bible,” he said, referring to NBC, during a Q&A panel earlier this month. “They tried, but then I’ve showed them what chapter it was from and they were like, ‘Oh, well I guess that’s okay.’”

Rush of Fools Enjoying Mainstream Success

Rush Of Fools is enjoying some cross-over success with their self-penned duet with Jim Brickman, “Never Far Away.” The song is currently #14 on Billboard’s AC chart.

Christian Music Sales Down Overall For 2008

According to the Gospel Music Association, while sales of digital albums were up 38% and digital singles 37%, overall, sales in 2008 of both digital and physical units were down 9.7% from 2007. In comparison, mainstream album sales were down 8.5% and Country music was down 24.2%.

The top 10 best selling albums in 2008 were:

1. Noel, Josh Grobin
2. I Can Only Imagine, various artists compilation
3. Thirsty, Marvin Sapp
4. Joy To The World, Faith Hill
5. Flyleaf, Flyleaf
6. The Altar and the Door, Casting Crowns
7. Peace On Earth, Casting Crowns
8. Revelation, Third Day
9. Fight of My Life, Kirk Franklin
10. WOW Hits 2009, various artists compilation

It's interesting to note that half of the Top 10 were either Christmas CDs or compilations. Christian music fans appear to gravitate to established and cross-over artists. Compilation CDs are popular just as they are with mainstream product, most likely because they aggregate hits and make sampling other artists easier.

As Gospel Soundcheck notes, both Flyleaf's self-titled debut and Casting Crowns The Altar and the Door were top selling Christian albums in 2007, and Flyleaf was also on the top selling list in 2006. Kirk Franklin was a top seller in 2006 with a different album, as was Casting Crowns. Compilation CDs were also top sellers.

The most popular styles of Christian/Gospel music were:
* Pop/Adult Contemporary (28%)
* Black Gospel (18%)
* Rock (17%)
* Praise & Worship (9%)
* Country (6%)

Red's New CD Debuts at No. 15

After topping the chart last week, the Fray's self-titled album slips to No. 4 with 75,000 (-58%).

Red's "Innocence & Instinct" debuts at No. 15 with 39,000

Fireproof Remains in Top 5 on DVD Sales Chart

After its impressive debut at #2 last week, Fireproof remains in the top 5 despite a 52% drop (on par with most of its competition). It has now sold 815,000 units in two weeks.

Oswald Bros. Gain National Exposure and Comparison to Jonas Bros.

Like Jonas Brothers, Oswalds succeed with clean. The Duluth-based Christian band released first album in January and are the first of six family groups named To "Face Off" seeking a recording contract.

Like the Jonas Brothers, the Oswalds project a wholesome image, cling to strong Christian values and come from a home-schooled environment. “I’ve heard … they started an awful lot like us, and it’s really cool to see how far they’ve gotten,” Zach said.

All three brothers are home-schooled, share the same room, and spend much of their time writing and rehearsing their music.

Jars of Clay Reunites With Essential

In 2007 Jars of Clay broke ties with longtime label Essential Records to form its own Gray Matters imprint. But the modern rockers just announced a renewal of their relationship with Essential for their new release The Long Fall Back to Earth.

The new CD appears to be a stylistic continuation of 2006's Good Monsters, which found the band using heavier guitars.

Paramore Teams Up With Steven Curtis Chapman’s Ministry In China

Paramore recently made news after it was announced that they were joining No Doubt on their summer tour. However, they are staying true to their faith as evidenced by two of their members recently went on a Missions Trip with Steven Curtis Chapman’s ministry to China. They helped out in “Maria’s Big House of Hope” orphanage.

Lou Gramm Announces CD Release Date

Lou Gramm has announced the release date for his first ever Christian CD. According to his site, the CD comes out May 30.

Mandisa Drops 70 lbs & Promotes Upcoming Release

Grammy® nominee and American Idol finalist Mandisa is encouraging women worldwide about the freedom she has experienced through her faith and incredible 70+lb weight loss in her upcoming sophomore release, Freedom, bowing on March 24th.

Freedom is the follow-up to Mandisa’s 2007 debut, True Beauty.

Jonas Brothers…Not That Innocent?

The Jonas Brothers spoke to British magazine, Teen Now about how the meaning of their purity rings was "taken out of context" and instead represent they have values. Does this mean they haven't taken a purity vow?

Teen Now: "So are you guys really vowing to stay virgins until marriage?"

Nick Jonas: "No. That was something that got taken out of hand and that we wanted to keep to ourselves."

Kevin Jonas: "The media took things out of context."

Joe Jonas: "Those rings are just to show that we have solid values in life."

Fireproof DVD Premieres at #2

Fireproof has translated its stunning box office success (over $33 million) into record DVD sales. It's in the second position in DVD sales behind Open Season 2 which outperformed it by only 4,000 units.

David Bowie is the Future of Christian Music

David Brighton the former lead singer for Christian 90s band, Brighton, has become the "world's best David Bowie impersonator." If you have the heart for it, you can experience it here.

The Fray's New CD Debuts at No. 1

The Fray earns its first No. 1 on The Billboard 200 with its sophomore self-titled Epic album, which sold 179,000 copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan.

The rock act's previous album, "How To Save a Life," peaked at No. 14, but has sold 2.37 million to date.

The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus Debuts at No. 14

Although platinum-selling modern rockers The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus chose the title Lonely Road for their new release with family and friends at home in mind, the band continues to build a loyal worldwide group of fans propelling their new release to a No. 14 debut.

Prior to the release of Lonely Road, the lead-off single "You Better Pray" had proven itself a national hit in both the Alternative and Active Rock radio formats, with wide video exposure through FUSE, Music Choice, MTVu and MTV2, which premiered their video all day long on "Unleashed."

As for why the Red Jumpsuit isn't a household name, the band's lead singer Ronnie Winter has an idea. "We kind of walk a fine line between what I call Bible-thumping and doing the right thing," Winter says. "I don't beat you over the head with it in our lyrics. We don't beat you over the head with it with our message."

Winter also notes: "Yes, we are all Christian and some of the songs do send out a message but that doesn't mean we fit into the genre of a Christian Band,to have made it this far is a blessing. we are all so happy and thankful,thanks to all the fans,our family,friends."

Korn Bassist Finds Faith

Korn bassist Reginald "Fieldy" Arvizu has found faith, according to the product page for a new HarperCollins book releasing March 10. Got the Life: My Journey of Addiction, Faith, Recovery, and Korn, which is being described as "the ultimate story of rock and redemption," details how Fieldy came to terms with the faith of his father, a Christian, when he died of a mysterious illness.

Fieldy is the second Korn member after Brian "Head" Welch to find Christianity.

'Chuck' Star Zachary Levi Joins 'Chipmunks' Sequel

Alvin, Simon, Theodore and ... Chuck?

Zachary Levi, star of the NBC action comedy series Chuck, has been cast to play the cousin of Jason Lee's character and gets tangled up with the tiny animated threesome in Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel.

Alvin and the Chipmunks was a bonified hit in 2007 and grossed a shocking $217 million in North America.

American Idol Season 8 Contestants With Ties to Christian Music

Joanne on Gospel Soundcheck lists a dozen Season 8 contestants with ties to Christian music. Most notable are Jesse Langseth (her brother is Jonny Lang) and Ryan Johnson (plays with Instereo).

TobyMac Wins a Grammy While in Concert

It was announced at the Winter Jam Tour stop in Atlanta that TobyMac had won a Grammy, ironically, for Alive & Transported. He had made a commitment to the Tour, so he did not attend the event.



He was nominated last year for the Gold-certified Portable Sounds, but lost out to Israel & New Breed (?!)

Winter Jam Warms the Heart But Not the Wallet

The Winter Jam Tour is selling out as it blows into town because of its compelling line-up and is amazingly affordable at just $10 at the door with no advance ticket sales.

The tour is headlined by tobyMac and features artists Hawk Nelson, Brandon Heath, NewSong, Francesca Battistelli, pureNRG, Stephanie Smith, and Guest Speaker Tony Nolan.

It's a great night and well worth the long lines when the doors open. At the Atlanta stop it was clear the majority of the crowd was there to see TobyMac, Hawk Nelson and pureNRG, but all were well received.

Top Marx for Rockers

Red is quickly becoming a phenomenon, and if early reviews of Innocence and Instinct are indicative of the CD's promise it should be a worthy follow-up to Red's stellar debut End of Silence.

For the uninitiated, Red is unlike anything you've heard before, a metal band with catchy melodies, electronic flourishes and powerful vocals that range from beautiful intonations to emotional screams.

They've had a relentless tour schedule that has included dates with Papa Roach, Three Days Grace, Flyleaf, Puddle of Mudd, Kutless, Seether and Staind that has helped Red reach a wider audience.

The new CD promises collaborations with 80s crooner Richard Marx (!) and a cover of Duran Duran's "Ordinary World"! It should be a wild ride.

Casting Crowns Performs at National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C.

Yesterday, Grammy-winning artist Casting Crowns was the featured guest performer during the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C. The platinum-selling band played “Voice of Truth” and “Who Am I” for President Obama, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and the more than 3,000 attendees, including dignitaries from more than 180 nations. For the first time in its 57-year history, the prayer breakfast was broadcast live over the internet.

In other Casting Crowns news, the band announced that drummer Andy Williams is leaving to work full time with his wife Kelly in a band and ministry called Soul Sister Sally.

Third Day makes mainstream play

Third Day is featured on the CNN.com home page today with an article on their mainstream play with the release of "Revelation".

Grammatrain derailed

A day after Jesus Freak Hideout announces Grammatrain is working on a new CD after a 10 year hiatus, they've followed up with this troubling addendum:

After posting this, Pete shared with us, "I'm not sure if you've followed me much musically over the last several years, but I've been fairly upfront about the fact that I don't consider myself a Christian any longer. I realize this is kind of a touchy subject with people who were/are fans of grammatrain and of me as a solo artist. Obviously, that's going to set the tone for this record to be different than our albums of the past and quite likely much of its reception." Stewart doesn't speak for Grammatrain's other members, as far as their spiritual status (they both consider themselves to be Christians), but this clearly changes the direction of Grammatrain since their years on Forefront in the mid to late 90's...

Beyond his notable band and solo work, he also was briefly a part of Tait.

The Fray releases sophomore album to Christian market

The Fray released their sophomore effort to the Christian market yesterday. The band, who sold 3.2 million copies of their debut album How To Save A Life, chose to release their second album in both markets.

That's kind of unusual in a time when a lot of Christian bands are trying to separate themselves from the Christian artist label in order to find mainstream success. But in a video for the song "You Found Me", lead vocalist Isaac Slade says that this is what they would have done the first time if they had the time and where they want to go for the rest of their career.

The first single "You Found Me" was released to Christian radio early this year, and landed at #23 on R&R's Christian CHR. The song was also used as the promo for the new season of ABC's "Lost."

"You Found Me" is a tough song for me,” comments Slade on the band’s MySpace page. “...There's some difficult circumstances my family and friends have been going through over the past year or so and can be overwhelming. It wears on me. It demands so much of my faith to keep believing, keep hoping in the unseen. Sometimes the tunnel has a light at the end, but usually they just look black as night. This song is about that feeling, and the hope that I still have, buried deep in my chest."

Does Christian Music lead people to Christ?

There's an interesting post on Gospel Soundcheck on whether Christian does or should lead people to Christ. The posting is prompted by a response from FamilyForce5.

On one hand, it's nice to see the guys are deeper than their madcap stage persona, on the other hand, it's disturbing how they respond and the inspirations and reading material they recommend.

Most troubling is the band's recommendation of Marcus Borg who has a pantheistic understanding of God, which sees God as both indwelling in everything and transcendent.

Based on their lyrics and style, I guess I shouldn't be surprised by their liberal beliefs.

Country legend Milsap releases Hymns Album

Country legend Ronnie Milsap is set to release his first Gospel CD "Then Sings My Soul: 24 Favorite Hymns & Gospel Songs." The two-disc set features Christian classics such as "Amazing Grace" and "I'll Fly Away," plus secular favorites like "People Get Ready" and "Stand by Me."

"I was shy to do this for a long time because I didn't necessarily want to show the inside of my soul," Milsap says. "Nobody ever asked me to dig deep inside of your spirit and expose that. That's why it took me a while to be able to do that."

"I Can Only Imagine" turns 10

"I Can Only Imagine," the mega-hit from MercyMe, turns a decade old in 2009, and on April 7 the band is pulling all the stops to celebrate the occasion. A new version of the song recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra will be included on "10," a commemorative CD/DVD bundle that also includes all 11 of MercyMe's #1 singles, plus the unreleased "Only Temporary" and the concert favorite "10 Simple Rules."

MovieMinistry’s Films to Look For in 2009

MovieMinistry looks ahead at films that might represent interesting ministry opportunities for those people who use film for outreach, or to create teachable moments.

The list can be read here.

Fox Steps Up for 3rd Narnia Film

With Walt Disney Pictures no longer on board to help produce launch the third installment of the “Chronicles of Narnia” films, 20th Century Fox has reportedly stepped in to partner with Walden Media for the next title in the fantasy series.

As first reported by Variety magazine, Fox and Walden plan to split production and marketing costs for "The Voyage of the Dawn Treader," which is projected to go into production with a $140 million budget. Though the two companies are still working out budget and script issues, the hope is to shoot the film at the end of summer for a holiday 2010 release through the Fox Walden label.

Chuck Star an Outspoken Christian

Chuck, heavily promoted in last night's captivating Super Bowl, will season premiere tonight with a 3D episode.

Zachary Levi, the star of Chuck, is an outspoken Christian.

This season will feature a fair amount of guest stars. The Green Mile's Michael Clarke Duncan appears in the season premiere, followed by John Laroquette of Boston Legal and Lost's Dominic Monaghan. Nicole Richie also puts in an appearance, as does The Fast and the Furious actress Jordana Brewster.

Salem Employees Take Pay Cut

Salem Communications says every full and part-time employee will take a 5% reduction in pay beginning next week and some executives are even taking a 10% reduction.

Salem owns Salem Radio Network, which syndicates talk, news and music programming to approximately 2,000 affiliates; Salem Web Network (e.g., Crosswalk.com); and Salem Publishing, a leading publisher of Christian-themed magazines (e.g., CCM). The company owns and operates approximately 100 radio stations, including stations in 23 of the top 25 markets.

Lynyrd Skynyrd's Billy Powell dies

Billy Powell died this morning from a heart ailment.

Powell, keyboardist for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame group Lynyrd Skynyrd, was seriously injured in the Oct. 20, 1977 plane crash that killed Lynyrd Skynyrd singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and others.

During the band's hiatus in the 80s, Powell briefly joined a Christian rock band named Vision and spoke during the concerts about his newly found faith in Jesus Christ.

Guitarist Gary Rossington's wife, Dale, said in the Florida Times Union that the band members had long been worried about Powell's health, adding, "But he had such a big huge heart of gold, such a huge abiding faith in God and his savior Jesus."

Anberlin: we're not a Christian band

The latest in a long line of Christian artists who feel compelled to announce that they're artists who happen to be Christians, Gospel Soundcheck has a nice post on Anberlin. Comments indicative of their philosophy comes from Lead vocalist Stephen Christian:

"I just simply write about life experiences, and when God comes out, then God comes out ... But I'm also not going to inhibit that or I'm not going to try to create that feeling just to sell records to more Christians or talk about God less just to sell more records to the general market."

Billboard Features Revive in its “Best Bets 2009”

This week, Billboard magazine names Revive as one of 15 new “Faces To Watch” in 2009, as part of this week's "Best Bests" cover story which highlights emerging talent in various genres of music. The pop/rock band is the only Christian music artist selected. “Revive looks to be the next Aussie export to make its mark in the Christian music arena,” Billboard states. Revive’s debut album, Chorus of the Saints, releases March 10, just in time for a national tour with Third Day and Brandon Heath on the Revelation Tour. For more on Revive, visit reviveband.com.

Storyside:B Bassist Dies on Cruise Ship

On Janua​ry 18 Storyside:B Bassist Ron McLelland passe​d away from an undiagnosed heart problem.​ According to their MySpace blog:

He was on a cruis​e with his wife Rebec​ca and 88.1 The Promi​se out of Jacksonvil​le FL. He was playi​ng baske​tball​ and sudde​nly colla​psed,​ and they were unable to reviv​e him. We are all shock​ed and deepl​y sadde​ned of our broth​er's passi​ng.​ Pleas​e keep his famil​y and wife Rebec​ca in your praye​rs.​ We will be setti​ng up a donation fund to help offse​t the cost of the funer​al and to help suppo​rt Ron'​s famil​y.​ God Bless​ Story​Side : B

They did not have life insurance and donation information is here.

Hollywood Conservatives Launch Effort to Change Entertainment Industry

In an industry dominated by the political left, conservatives are coming together on a new platform with a mission to change Hollywood and to restore it to its patriotic roots.

Launched last week, Big Hollywood is not a gossip outpost but a group blog featuring hundreds of conservatives from the fields of politics, journalism, entertainment and culture.

MercyMe Most Played Artist on Christian Radio in 2008

Here are the most played artists on Christian radio in 2008 according to Radio & Records. MercyMe is the most played artist and the rest of the top 10 contain no real surprises except for Robbie Seay Band.

Top 10 Christian AC artists:
1. MercyMe
2. Matthew West
3. Chris Tomlin
4. Casting Crowns
5. Jeremy Camp
6. Third Day
7. Natalie Grant
8. Brandon Heath
9. Steven Curtis Chapman
10. Robbie Seay Band

No surprises in the CHR list except for Skillet at #1.

Top 10 Christian CHR artists:
1. Skillet
2. Addison Road
3. The Afters
4. Needtobreathe
5. Sanctus Real
6. Hawk Nelson
7. Jeremy Camp
8. TobyMac
9. Relient K
10. Brandon Heath

No real surprises in the Top 10 except for The Wedding and Ivoryline.

Top 10 Christian Rock artists:
1. Pillar
2. The Wedding
3. Skillet
4. Family Force 5
5. Fireflight
6. Relient K
7. Wavorly
8. Ivoryline
9. Project 86
10. The Almost

"You Are Everything" was Most Played Song on Christian Radio

Here are the most played songs on Christian radio in 2008 according to Radio & Records.

Top 5 Christian AC songs:
1) You Are Everything, Matthew West
2) Let It Fade, Jeremy Camp
3) Call My Name, Third Day
4) God With us, MercyMe
5) You Reign, Mercy Me

Top 5 Christian CHR songs:
1) Never Going Back To OK, The Afters
2) Give Me Your Eyes, Brandon Heath
3) Those Nights, Skillet
4) No Matter What It Takes, Jeremy Camp
5) Call My Name, Third Day

Top 5 Christian Rock songs:
1) Whispers In The Dark, Skillet
2) Hello Alone, Anberlin
3) Crash, Decyfer Down
4) Devastation And Reform, Relient K
5) The Flame In All Of Us, Thousand Foot Krutch

Top 5 Soft AC/Inspirational songs:
1) Jesus Messiah, Chris Tomlin
2) You Reign, MercyMe
3) You're Not Along, Meredith Andrews
4) What Life Would Be Like, Big Daddy Weave
5) Mighty To Save, Laura Story

To put some of this into perspective, Matthew West's "You Are Everything" had 47,006 plays in 2008. In contrast, Skillet's "Whispers In The Dark" had 4,505 plays.

All of the Radio & Records year end charts are here.

'Bibleman' Fighting Back After Suicide Try

Willie Aames is back in charge. That's the message the "Charles in Charge" and "Eight Is Enough" star is sending now, after trying to kill himself last year on Thanksgiving Day.

Aames, 48, opens up in the current issue of Star magazine about the awful series of events that led him to try to take his own life.

After he declared bankruptcy and had his car repossessed, he says his actress wife of 22 years, Maylo Upon, left him. Willie then moved out of their Kansas home and rented a room in Los Angeles.

Aames who struggled with addictions before becoming a Christian, recounts: "I stole a bottle of Jack Daniel's from the guy I was renting the room from," Willie tells the magazine. "I'd been sober for 20 years when I took that first drink... It got so bad, I put a knife to my throat and cut myself in six places."

In a revealing interview with BeliefNet two years ago in conjunction with the publication of his memoir "Grace Is Enough," the couple has some disappointing revelations about their involvement with the Christian community.

They discuss Christians reactions to Willie's 'incident' on "Celebrity Fit Club" and his complicated relationship with Bibleman. Hopefully, Aames will realize that God's grace is still enough and will be restored to a better place.

CompassionArt Giving Away 100 Million Songs

The CompassionArt charity is giving away 100 million brand new songs from its upcoming CompassionArt: Creating Freedom From Poverty CD/DVD for a limited time download via a widget (see below). This giveaway features six songs written collectively by 12 acclaimed songwriters and recorded by well-known artists in the Christian music genre. Requesting donations for the songs, the goal is to engage people everywhere to help end world poverty.

The 19 songwriters/guest vocalists featured on the CompassionArt: Creating Freedom From Poverty recording include: (Songwriters) Paul Baloche, Steven Curtis Chapman, Stu G, Israel Houghton, Tim Hughes, Graham Kendrick, Andy Park, Matt Redman, Martin Smith, Michael W. Smith, Chris Tomlin and Darlene Zschech; and (Guest Vocalists) Kirk Franklin, Amy Grant, Joel Houston, Leeland Mooring, Christy Nockels, tobyMac and CeCe Winans.

Together, they combine for: 101 million albums sold, 103 No. 1 songs, 32 GRAMMY Awards and 9 GRAMMY nominations this month alone, 202 Dove Awards, 18 Stellar Awards, 3 American Music Awards, and 116 CCLI Top 500 songs sung by millions in churches around the world.

Jody Davis Returns to the Newsboys

Guitarist Jody Davis returns to the Newsboys after a five-year hiatus. Davis was a member of the band from 1993-2003. Paul Colman, who played guitar with the Newsboys the last three years, will be continuing his solo career and performing shows nationwide in 2009.

Upcoming releases

According to JesusFreakHideout:
January 27
* Paul Colman History [Inpop]
* Paul Colman If I Was Jesus (Digital EP) [Inpop]
* various artists CompassionArt: Creating Freedom From Poverty [Sparrow]
* Joy Williams One of Those Days EP [Sensibility]


February 3
* Melinda Doolittle Coming Back To You [Genius]
* The Fray untitled [Epic]
* Salvador How Far is Heaven: The Best of Salvador [Word]

February 10
* Avalon Avalon: The Greatest Hits [Sparrow]
* Red Innocence & Instinct [Essential]

February 24
* Delirious? My Soul Sings live CD/DVD [Sparrow]


March 10
* Melissa Greene Next Step [KOCH]
* Ronnie Milsap Then Sings My Soul: 24 Favorite Hymns & Gospel Songs [StarSong]

March 24
* Mandisa Freedom [Sparrow]
* Switchfoot untitled [Credential]

* Jars Of Clay The Long Fall Back To Earth [Gray Matters]

May 5
* Newsboys In The Hands Of God [Inpop]

Further In The Future...
* BarlowGirl untitled [Fervent] -- July
* Kevin Max untitled [dPulse]
* NEEDTOBREATHE untitled [Word]
* Sanctus Real untitled [Sparrow] -- Summer
* Sixpence None The Richer untitled [Nettwerk]
* Rebecca St. James untitled [Forefront]
* Stryper Murder By Pride -- Early 2009
* Tait Loveology -- Your guess is as good as ours
* TobyMac untitled [Forefront]

Jonas Brothers in concert with Christian friends

The Jonas Brothers performed a concert yesterday at Nashville's historic Ryman Auditorium, with friends Jordin Sparks, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, Phil Vassar, Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman.

Quotes from the concert here.