According to CMT, the 2011 Taylor Swift Speak Now Tour will welcome Needtobreathe as the opening act for the North American leg, which begins on May 27 in Omaha, Nebraska.
The Speak Now Tour will be a major boost to Needtobreathe, as Bo Rinehart of Needtobreathe recently confirmed. "It means a lot to us that Taylor handpicked us for her Speak Now tour," said Rinehart. "Everyone knows she has amazing fans, and we thrive on performing live, especially in front of new audiences."
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Friday, November 12, 2010
Third Day's 'Follow Me There' Is Theme Song for 'Sarah Palin's Alaska'
Third Day's “Follow Me There” has been selected as the theme music for SARAH PALIN’S ALASKA. Premiering Sunday, November 14, 2010 SARAH PALIN’S ALASKA takes viewers into the country’s ‘last frontier’ through the eyes of one of its most famous citizens – Sarah Palin.
Tai Anderson, Third Day bass player, shares, “We’re honored to have our song chosen for this exciting new show on TLC. It showcases an incredibly beautiful state through the eyes an intriguing family. We’ve played several shows in Alaska and look forward to performing there in months to come.”
“The minute I heard ‘Follow Me There,’ I loved it and knew it was the only song I wanted for the main title for this series,” said Executive Producer Mark Burnett. “I hope this song goes on to win Third Day another Grammy and inspires millions of Americans.”
“‘Follow Me There’ is a wonderful invitation to viewers to join our exciting 8 week television journey with Sarah and her family,” added Tom Carr, SVP Marketing, TLC. “With such terrific crossover between Third Day and TLC fans, we're excited to share the song and the show across our respective marketing platforms."
Tai Anderson, Third Day bass player, shares, “We’re honored to have our song chosen for this exciting new show on TLC. It showcases an incredibly beautiful state through the eyes an intriguing family. We’ve played several shows in Alaska and look forward to performing there in months to come.”
“The minute I heard ‘Follow Me There,’ I loved it and knew it was the only song I wanted for the main title for this series,” said Executive Producer Mark Burnett. “I hope this song goes on to win Third Day another Grammy and inspires millions of Americans.”
“‘Follow Me There’ is a wonderful invitation to viewers to join our exciting 8 week television journey with Sarah and her family,” added Tom Carr, SVP Marketing, TLC. “With such terrific crossover between Third Day and TLC fans, we're excited to share the song and the show across our respective marketing platforms."
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
700K Lite-Brite Pegs Light Up Vevo for David Crowder Band
David Crowder*Band’s “SMS (Shine)” Music Video Debuts Today Using An Unprecedented 700,000 LITE-BRITE® Pegs
The Band’s Latest Original Video Creation Debuts on VEVO with “Artists We Love” Placement
David Crowder*Band’s self-made new music video for their latest single “SMS (Shine)” debuts today using an unrivaled 700,000 LITE-BRITE® pegs. The video also features dancing monkeys, jumping frogs and of course an appearance from the David Crowder*Band themselves.
The video portraying a love story made completely of LITE-BRITE® pegs was done solely by hand. Even details such as the piano playing in the background and the monkeys beating a drum in perfect time was done free of digital affects and computer animation. It took 2,150 man hours, 1,200 LITE-BRITE® images, 83 friends and 148 pizzas to complete the video.
The Band’s Latest Original Video Creation Debuts on VEVO with “Artists We Love” Placement
David Crowder*Band’s self-made new music video for their latest single “SMS (Shine)” debuts today using an unrivaled 700,000 LITE-BRITE® pegs. The video also features dancing monkeys, jumping frogs and of course an appearance from the David Crowder*Band themselves.
The video portraying a love story made completely of LITE-BRITE® pegs was done solely by hand. Even details such as the piano playing in the background and the monkeys beating a drum in perfect time was done free of digital affects and computer animation. It took 2,150 man hours, 1,200 LITE-BRITE® images, 83 friends and 148 pizzas to complete the video.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
John Woo: When Doves Cry
Many Christians have problems with violent action movies, so it's ironic that one of the most successful directors in the genre is a christian. John Woo insists that his movies bolster his own strong family values. His heroes are “always reaching out a helping hand,” he points out, “even sometimes sacrific[ing] himself for the others.”
Characters in his movies have both good and bad qualities – everyone does horrible things and makes mistakes. They're equally fallen and in need of redemption. Characters face moral dilemmas and their own sins throughout .Woo doesn't resolve dilemmas in simple ways – he leaves them hanging, much like in real life.
The symbolism, the framing, the way everything looks is intentional. As he says in an interview with Premiere Magazine:
Updated: great article on Theology Gaming
Characters in his movies have both good and bad qualities – everyone does horrible things and makes mistakes. They're equally fallen and in need of redemption. Characters face moral dilemmas and their own sins throughout .Woo doesn't resolve dilemmas in simple ways – he leaves them hanging, much like in real life.
The symbolism, the framing, the way everything looks is intentional. As he says in an interview with Premiere Magazine:
I love doves. I am a Christian. Doves represent the purity of love, beauty. They’re spiritual. Also the dove is a messenger between people and God. When I was in high school and I used to draw posters for the church, I would draw a picture of a dove. When I shot The Killer... In the church scene, I wanted to bring them together. I wanted to use a metaphor of the heart. I came up with doves-they’re white. When the men die, I cut to the dove flying-it’s the soul, rescued and safe, and also pure of heart. So the dove became one of my habits: I used it in Hard-boiled, Face/Off, and in [M:I-2], at the end of the movie.Surprisingly, he even wanted to be a minister at some point:
When I was a kid growing up in Hong Kong, our family was so poor, and an American family sent money to the Lutheran church and supported me going to school for six years, and also my brother and sister. And I was grateful to the church because, without their help, I might have become a different person. I had great parents, but at that time I was so scared, and so lonely, and I had to fight so hard, because I had to deal with gangs almost every day. So you can see how rough it was — I felt like I was living in hell, and the church became my shelter. I felt safe and happy and comfortable in the church. When I was 16, I really wanted to be a minister, to pay back the people who gave me help, and help other people.So what does Woo truly believe, anyway? In his interview with Woo that closes Between the Bullets: The Spiritual Cinema of John Woo, author Michael Bliss leads us to an answer:
- Do you think that the traditional values that you cherish -- such as honor, devotion, religion, family -- aren’t very popular anymore?
- “Yes. It seems that many people have lost them. I think it is my duty to bring all of these things back, these things that people have lost.”
- With that in mind, would it be fair to say that more than anything else, you’re a religious director?
- “Yes. I’d agree with that.”
Updated: great article on Theology Gaming
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Tomlin is Golden
With a platinum and two gold albums to his credit, Chris Tomlin is among the best-selling and influential artists in contemporary Christian music. On November 16th, on the heels of celebrating the RIAA Gold Status of 2008s HELLO LOVE, Tomlin will deliver his seventh recording, "AND IF OUR GOD IS FOR US... ".
Monday, October 4, 2010
GRITS Says Ooh Ahh 500,000 Times
GRITS song “Ooh Ahh (My Life Be Like)” recently scanned over 500,000 downloads, adding their name to a small and select group of Christian artists who have achieved such sales success.
After being used as part of the theme song last year, “Ooh Ahh (My Life Be Like)” is again the theme song for the second season of MTV’s The Buried Life. The season, which premiered last week, features four guys who are attempting a series of adventures.
The song has a long list of film and TV credits since it’s release on GRITS 2002 release “The Art of Translation”. “Ooh Ahh”’s has been used in films such as The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift and Big Momma’s House 2, and on shows such as My Super Sweet Sixteen and The Buried Life. On YouTube there have been 37 million views of fan-generated videos for “Ooh Ahh.”
After being used as part of the theme song last year, “Ooh Ahh (My Life Be Like)” is again the theme song for the second season of MTV’s The Buried Life. The season, which premiered last week, features four guys who are attempting a series of adventures.
The song has a long list of film and TV credits since it’s release on GRITS 2002 release “The Art of Translation”. “Ooh Ahh”’s has been used in films such as The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift and Big Momma’s House 2, and on shows such as My Super Sweet Sixteen and The Buried Life. On YouTube there have been 37 million views of fan-generated videos for “Ooh Ahh.”
Friday, October 1, 2010
A Journey Home. A Faith Restored.
New film, RUST, explores crisis of faith and the importance of perseverance.
Filmed in Kipling, Saskatchewan, RUST stars Corbin Bernsen (L.A. Law, Psych), who also wrote and directed this personal film. The real-life citizens of Kipling were cast in supporting roles.
The film becomes available on October 5 and when you watch the opening credits for RUST, one element will jump out more than the rest: the dedication, For Father. Writer/director/star Corbin Bernsen wanted everyone to know that this film was different than any other project he has worked on; it was created in memory of his dad.
The creative idea process of RUST began as Corbin was examining his life in the aftermath of Harry Bernsen's death in 2008. Part of his exploration was to look at the role of faith in his life. As Corbin said in a recent interview: "It's really put me on this interesting road and very educational, I might add, road back to understanding the role of faith in God and Christ in my life."
Filmed in Kipling, Saskatchewan, RUST stars Corbin Bernsen (L.A. Law, Psych), who also wrote and directed this personal film. The real-life citizens of Kipling were cast in supporting roles.
The film becomes available on October 5 and when you watch the opening credits for RUST, one element will jump out more than the rest: the dedication, For Father. Writer/director/star Corbin Bernsen wanted everyone to know that this film was different than any other project he has worked on; it was created in memory of his dad.
The creative idea process of RUST began as Corbin was examining his life in the aftermath of Harry Bernsen's death in 2008. Part of his exploration was to look at the role of faith in his life. As Corbin said in a recent interview: "It's really put me on this interesting road and very educational, I might add, road back to understanding the role of faith in God and Christ in my life."
Michael W. Smith Talks Faith on Fox News
It may be providential that one of the best-known Christian music artists, Michael W. Smith, released his new album this week, and it includes a song ("Leave") about abuse in the church. Apt timing, since accusations against mega-church pastor Bishop Eddie Long are rocking the Christian community.
In a wide-ranging interview, Smith says he understands that whether you're in church or any house of worship, you're not immune to human nature's faults and failings. The real challenge, he says, not letting your ego do the talking ... or the walking ... or the thinking.
He also addresses the difficulties of Christian artists crossing over, particularly in the early days.
They premiere the video for his new single.
In a wide-ranging interview, Smith says he understands that whether you're in church or any house of worship, you're not immune to human nature's faults and failings. The real challenge, he says, not letting your ego do the talking ... or the walking ... or the thinking.
He also addresses the difficulties of Christian artists crossing over, particularly in the early days.
They premiere the video for his new single.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Ronald Reagan Movie Planned
The story of Ronald Reagan's life -- from boyhood to Hollywood actor to leader of the free world -- is about to spill out on the big screen in a way quite different from the miniseries that caused such a stir seven years ago.
The feature film, titled "Reagan" and sporting a $30 million production budget, is set for release late next year and will be based on two best-selling biographies of the 40th U.S. president by Paul Kengor: "The Crusader" and "God and Ronald Reagan."
Mark Joseph, who optioned the books four years ago, is co-producing with Ralph Winter and Jonas McCord wrote the script.
Winter's producing credits include four "X-Men" movies, two "Fantastic Four" movies and the 2001 remake of "Planet of the Apes." Joseph, a marketing and development executive, worked on "Ray," "Holes," "Because of Winn-Dixie" and "The Passion of the Christ."
The "Reagans" miniseries starred James Brolin as the president and was supposed to air on CBS until a controversy erupted over alleged left-wing bias and it was relegated to sibling premium cable outlet Showtime. It was seen by 1.2 million people.
"Only in Hollywood could you make an insulting, condescending movie about a much-loved historical figure, hire an actor who loathes the man, watch it flop and then somehow conclude that Americans don't want to see a movie about him," Joseph said. "I watched Americans line up and wait for 10 hours for the simple privilege of passing by his closed casket. They love this man."
full article here.
The feature film, titled "Reagan" and sporting a $30 million production budget, is set for release late next year and will be based on two best-selling biographies of the 40th U.S. president by Paul Kengor: "The Crusader" and "God and Ronald Reagan."
Mark Joseph, who optioned the books four years ago, is co-producing with Ralph Winter and Jonas McCord wrote the script.
Winter's producing credits include four "X-Men" movies, two "Fantastic Four" movies and the 2001 remake of "Planet of the Apes." Joseph, a marketing and development executive, worked on "Ray," "Holes," "Because of Winn-Dixie" and "The Passion of the Christ."
The "Reagans" miniseries starred James Brolin as the president and was supposed to air on CBS until a controversy erupted over alleged left-wing bias and it was relegated to sibling premium cable outlet Showtime. It was seen by 1.2 million people.
"Only in Hollywood could you make an insulting, condescending movie about a much-loved historical figure, hire an actor who loathes the man, watch it flop and then somehow conclude that Americans don't want to see a movie about him," Joseph said. "I watched Americans line up and wait for 10 hours for the simple privilege of passing by his closed casket. They love this man."
full article here.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Gold Skillet
"AWAKE," the latest album from Skillet, has been certified gold by the RIAA for sales in excess of 500,000 after only 10 months. The album - which includes two Active Rock radio hits, "Monster" and "Hero" - continues strong in the upper half of the Billboard 200.
Produced by Howard Benson (Three Days Grace, Daughtry, Flyleaf), "AWAKE" reached the #1 spot on the iTunes Store's "Top Albums" chart within 24 hours of its release last August. The album also made a blockbuster debut on the SoundScan/Billboard 200, entering the chart at #2.
Skillet is currently on the road as part of Creed's "20-10 Tour," with dates continuing through early September. In addition, the Grammy-nominated rock outfit will be among the top artists appearing at a number of upcoming summer festivals, including a headline slot on the "Rock The River" festival tour of Western Canada. Beginning October 1st, Skillet will join Papa Roach for the co-headline Monsters Of Annihilation Tour also featuring Trapt and My Darkest Days. The highly anticipated 16-city Awake Tonight Tour with TobyMac and presented by Winter Wonder Slam, will launch November 11 in Springfield, IL and carry through until December 12.
Produced by Howard Benson (Three Days Grace, Daughtry, Flyleaf), "AWAKE" reached the #1 spot on the iTunes Store's "Top Albums" chart within 24 hours of its release last August. The album also made a blockbuster debut on the SoundScan/Billboard 200, entering the chart at #2.
Skillet is currently on the road as part of Creed's "20-10 Tour," with dates continuing through early September. In addition, the Grammy-nominated rock outfit will be among the top artists appearing at a number of upcoming summer festivals, including a headline slot on the "Rock The River" festival tour of Western Canada. Beginning October 1st, Skillet will join Papa Roach for the co-headline Monsters Of Annihilation Tour also featuring Trapt and My Darkest Days. The highly anticipated 16-city Awake Tonight Tour with TobyMac and presented by Winter Wonder Slam, will launch November 11 in Springfield, IL and carry through until December 12.
Friday, August 20, 2010
TobyMac Is the Soundtrack for TV's Hits
TobyMac's "Tonight" is being used on NBC promos for "America's Got Talent" while "ShowStopper" is being used in CSI:NY.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Police Dare Switchfoot Singer to Move
A police officer shut down an impromptu concert by Switchfoot front man Jon Foreman Sunday night, escorting him away from a group of fans outside a Tampa amphitheater. The crowd showed up when Foreman tweeted to fans, asking them to meet him after the show.
Switchfoot played a concert with the Goo Goo Dolls at the 1-800 Ask-Gary Amphitheatre at the Florida State Fairgrounds Sunday.
"Many times on tour I play after our show when time allows. The after-shows are all about the love of the music -- all acoustic: no amps, no mics, no tickets, just a couple tunes and whoever wants to listen. I see it as a chance to connect with music in a different way. Over the years, I've had a few policeman shut these after-shows down. Maybe they are nervous because these types of gatherings are unusual," Foreman said in an e-mail to CNN Monday.
Video of the incident posted on YouTube shows Foreman playing a couple of songs on an acoustic guitar with a collection of fans around him when the officer walks up and says, "It's over. It's over. C'mon, let's go."
The officer identified himself as "Fisher" when Foreman asked who he was and offered to shake his hand. After the small crowd mildly protested, asking if one more song could be played, and Foreman hesitated to leave, the officer said, "If I call somebody over here, we will be forcing you out. So what do you want to do?"
The smiling Foreman offered his hand again, which the officer shook, and escorted the singer away. "Thank you, Jon," several fans shouted as the crowd applauded.
"The officer last night wouldn't give me a reason for shutting it down, he only said that he had a family to go home to," Foreman told CNN. I respect the authorities, they have a difficult job."
"I love playing on the big stages in front of thousands of folks, it feels like a megaphone. It's how I pay the bills and it's the best job in the world. But I also love playing for just a few folks for free. It feels like a whisper." Foreman said of the intimate post-show gatherings he sometimes calls via Twitter.
Switchfoot played a concert with the Goo Goo Dolls at the 1-800 Ask-Gary Amphitheatre at the Florida State Fairgrounds Sunday.
"Many times on tour I play after our show when time allows. The after-shows are all about the love of the music -- all acoustic: no amps, no mics, no tickets, just a couple tunes and whoever wants to listen. I see it as a chance to connect with music in a different way. Over the years, I've had a few policeman shut these after-shows down. Maybe they are nervous because these types of gatherings are unusual," Foreman said in an e-mail to CNN Monday.
Video of the incident posted on YouTube shows Foreman playing a couple of songs on an acoustic guitar with a collection of fans around him when the officer walks up and says, "It's over. It's over. C'mon, let's go."
The officer identified himself as "Fisher" when Foreman asked who he was and offered to shake his hand. After the small crowd mildly protested, asking if one more song could be played, and Foreman hesitated to leave, the officer said, "If I call somebody over here, we will be forcing you out. So what do you want to do?"
The smiling Foreman offered his hand again, which the officer shook, and escorted the singer away. "Thank you, Jon," several fans shouted as the crowd applauded.
"The officer last night wouldn't give me a reason for shutting it down, he only said that he had a family to go home to," Foreman told CNN. I respect the authorities, they have a difficult job."
"I love playing on the big stages in front of thousands of folks, it feels like a megaphone. It's how I pay the bills and it's the best job in the world. But I also love playing for just a few folks for free. It feels like a whisper." Foreman said of the intimate post-show gatherings he sometimes calls via Twitter.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Katy Perry: 'I'm Still a Christian'
In the latest Rolling Stone, Katy Perry tells her story of growing up in a Christian home, of her brief dalliance with Christian music, her longing to be a pop star, her relationship with fiance Russell Brand, and her present-day beliefs.
RS writes that "one would think her religious past is behind her, but [Perry] still considers herself a Christian." She tells the magazine, “God is very much still a part of my life. But the way the details are told in the Bible—that’s very fuzzy for me. And I want to throw up when I saw that. But that’s the truth... I still believe that Jesus is the son of God. But I also believe in extraterrestrials, and that there are people sent from God to be messengers, and all sorts of crazy stuff."
Fascinating but also confused observations from a young woman who is still trying to figure things out, despite living in a Christian home where both parents considered themselves pastors and where speaking in tongues was commonplace. "My mom and dad practice ‘tongues and interpretation’ together—my dad speaks in tongues, and my mom interprets it,” Perry said. “That’s their gift.” The three children, including Katy, spoke in tongues as well. “Speaking in tongues is as normal to me as ‘Pass the salt. A lot of religions use meditation or chanting as a subliminal prayer language, and speaking in tongues isn’t that different—it’s a secret, direct language to God. If I felt intuitively that I had to pray for some situation, but I didn’t rationally understand it, I just let my spirit pray for it.”
Perry said that after her Christian label shut down and that it was clear that "my gospel career was going nowhere," she started writing love songs and pursuing a pop career -- not rejecting her faith in the process, but not exactly fully letting it define her, either.
Great article summary and more about her past here.
RS writes that "one would think her religious past is behind her, but [Perry] still considers herself a Christian." She tells the magazine, “God is very much still a part of my life. But the way the details are told in the Bible—that’s very fuzzy for me. And I want to throw up when I saw that. But that’s the truth... I still believe that Jesus is the son of God. But I also believe in extraterrestrials, and that there are people sent from God to be messengers, and all sorts of crazy stuff."
Fascinating but also confused observations from a young woman who is still trying to figure things out, despite living in a Christian home where both parents considered themselves pastors and where speaking in tongues was commonplace. "My mom and dad practice ‘tongues and interpretation’ together—my dad speaks in tongues, and my mom interprets it,” Perry said. “That’s their gift.” The three children, including Katy, spoke in tongues as well. “Speaking in tongues is as normal to me as ‘Pass the salt. A lot of religions use meditation or chanting as a subliminal prayer language, and speaking in tongues isn’t that different—it’s a secret, direct language to God. If I felt intuitively that I had to pray for some situation, but I didn’t rationally understand it, I just let my spirit pray for it.”
Perry said that after her Christian label shut down and that it was clear that "my gospel career was going nowhere," she started writing love songs and pursuing a pop career -- not rejecting her faith in the process, but not exactly fully letting it define her, either.
Great article summary and more about her past here.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Switchfoot performs at 2010 National Boy Scout Jamboree
President Barack Obama may not have made it to the Centennial celebration of the 2010 National Scout Jamboree, but rockers Switchfoot were there. The band performed in front of 100,000 cheering Scouts at Fort A.P. Hill in Virginia on July 31.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Anne Rice Issues Mixed Signals About Leaving Christianity
Famous author Anne Rice has announced that she’s quitting Christianity.
The “Interview with a Vampire” author, who wrote a book about her spirituality titled "Called Out of Darkness: A Spiritual Confession" in 2008, said Wednesday that she refuses to be “anti-gay,” “anti-feminist," “anti-science” and “anti-Democrat.”
Rice wrote on Facebook,
Rice then added a somewhat contradictory post explaining her decision on Thursday:
The “Interview with a Vampire” author, who wrote a book about her spirituality titled "Called Out of Darkness: A Spiritual Confession" in 2008, said Wednesday that she refuses to be “anti-gay,” “anti-feminist," “anti-science” and “anti-Democrat.”
Rice wrote on Facebook,
“For those who care, and I understand if you don't: Today I quit being a Christian ... It's simply impossible for me to ‘belong’ to this quarrelsome, hostile, disputatious, and deservedly infamous group. For ten years, I've tried. I've failed. I'm an outsider. My conscience will allow nothing else.”
Rice then added a somewhat contradictory post explaining her decision on Thursday:
“My faith in Christ is central to my life. My conversion from a pessimistic atheist lost in a world I didn't understand, to an optimistic believer in a universe created and sustained by a loving God is crucial to me," Rice wrote. "But following Christ does not mean following His followers. Christ is infinitely more important than Christianity and always will be, no matter what Christianity is, has been or might become.”
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Dove Awards Move to Atlanta
The Gospel Music Association (GMA) recently announced the renewal of its partnership with GMC to broadcast the Dove Awards.
With the 2010 Dove Awards this past April delivering more than 300K viewers and outperforming the 2009 premiere HH rating by +54%, the GMA is also taking a bold step and hosting the 42nd Annual Dove Awards in Atlanta, GA., the first time the show has taken place outside of Nashville.
GMA's Chairman of the Board Ed Leonard comments, "the experience of attending the Dove Awards in person, with our artists and fans gathered together in the Atlanta community to celebrate the Gospel, is incredible. We want to share that excitement with the people of Atlanta in 2011."
The 2011 Dove Awards will be held in Atlanta's historic Fox Theatre on April 20, 2011, GMA is working in conjunction with the city of Atlanta to host the broadcast, where its television partner, GMC is also headquartered. Atlanta is the home of many of the industry's biggest names including Casting Crowns, Chris Tomlin and Third Day.
"GMC is thrilled to present the Dove Awards for another year to Gospel and Christian music fans," said Charley Humbard, President and CEO of GMC. He added, "As the leading television provider of Gospel music, we are dedicated to making GMC the television home of Gospel and Christian music's biggest events."
With the 2010 Dove Awards this past April delivering more than 300K viewers and outperforming the 2009 premiere HH rating by +54%, the GMA is also taking a bold step and hosting the 42nd Annual Dove Awards in Atlanta, GA., the first time the show has taken place outside of Nashville.
GMA's Chairman of the Board Ed Leonard comments, "the experience of attending the Dove Awards in person, with our artists and fans gathered together in the Atlanta community to celebrate the Gospel, is incredible. We want to share that excitement with the people of Atlanta in 2011."
The 2011 Dove Awards will be held in Atlanta's historic Fox Theatre on April 20, 2011, GMA is working in conjunction with the city of Atlanta to host the broadcast, where its television partner, GMC is also headquartered. Atlanta is the home of many of the industry's biggest names including Casting Crowns, Chris Tomlin and Third Day.
"GMC is thrilled to present the Dove Awards for another year to Gospel and Christian music fans," said Charley Humbard, President and CEO of GMC. He added, "As the leading television provider of Gospel music, we are dedicated to making GMC the television home of Gospel and Christian music's biggest events."
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Brandon Heath Performs At Carrie Underwood’s Wedding
Brandon Heath recently performed his “Love Never Fails” at country music superstar Carrie Underwood’s wedding to Canadian hockey player Mike Fisher. Noted as the couple’s song, Brandon performed “Love Never Fails” which also served as the couple’s first dance, and was a surprise from Carrie to her new husband Mike. Brandon had this to say about being a part of their special day…
After their lavish wedding at the Ritz Carlton Reynolds Plantation in Greensboro, Georgia they honeymooned in Tahiti.
Read more
I was blessed to be part of Carrie and Mike’s big day. Being among their family and friends, I was honored to have been a witness to something so sacred and special. Performing at weddings can be nerve racking, but I felt right at home. And it was especially cool to be in on Carrie’s surprise for her groom and their first dance.
After their lavish wedding at the Ritz Carlton Reynolds Plantation in Greensboro, Georgia they honeymooned in Tahiti.
Read more
Friday, July 23, 2010
Newsboys Born Again at #4
Newsboys notches its best showing ever on the Billboard 200 as its "Born Again" album bows at No. 4 with 45,000 -- the act's highest sales week since SoundScan began tracking data in 1991. The set is the first from the quartet to feature dc Talk's Michael Tait as its lead vocalist, who steps in for Peter Furler. Newsboys have been charting on the Billboard 200 since 1996, when "Take Me to Your Leader" debuted and peaked at No. 35, but, the act has never risen higher than No. 28 with "In the Hands of Good" in 2009. The new "Born Again" album also naturally debuts at No. 1 on Top Christian Albums -- the act's fourth No. 1 there.
The title had decent competition, charting above new releases from such artists as Sting and M.I.A. The excitement of a new lead singer as well as outlets such as FOX News, Rhapsody, Billboard, gmclife.com, CCM, Charisma, TitleTrakk.com, CBN, and more have promoted Born Again helping it launch well.
The title had decent competition, charting above new releases from such artists as Sting and M.I.A. The excitement of a new lead singer as well as outlets such as FOX News, Rhapsody, Billboard, gmclife.com, CCM, Charisma, TitleTrakk.com, CBN, and more have promoted Born Again helping it launch well.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Candace Cameron Bure Loves Bob Saget, Not His Comedy
Candace Cameron Bure has a new ABC Family hit show on her hands and a Christian spiritual outlook since her 'Full House' days (her site is titled "Growing in God with Candace").
So there is not a lot of room for 'Full House' co-star's Bob Saget's comedy these days in Bure's life. And Saget understands.
"When there is a [comedy] show he tells me, 'I love you, you're invited, but don't come,'" Bure tells PopEater. "He says, 'You're not going to laugh and you're not going to think it's funny.'"
"[It's a no go] for me and my husband," she adds, talking about her hubby, former NHL star Valeri Bure. "Bob says he doesn't want to offend me or Val."
The actress is busy filming 'Make It Or Break It,' the hit show about gymnastics, which is heading into its second season, and raising three children with Val (proudly without a nanny). So it's not like she has much time to head to comedy clubs.
So there is not a lot of room for 'Full House' co-star's Bob Saget's comedy these days in Bure's life. And Saget understands.
"When there is a [comedy] show he tells me, 'I love you, you're invited, but don't come,'" Bure tells PopEater. "He says, 'You're not going to laugh and you're not going to think it's funny.'"
"[It's a no go] for me and my husband," she adds, talking about her hubby, former NHL star Valeri Bure. "Bob says he doesn't want to offend me or Val."
The actress is busy filming 'Make It Or Break It,' the hit show about gymnastics, which is heading into its second season, and raising three children with Val (proudly without a nanny). So it's not like she has much time to head to comedy clubs.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Glenn Beck Wades into Jim Wallis Controversy
Glenn Beck brought a lot of attention to a Christian music festival, Lifest, when he brought it up on his talk show in relation to Jim Wallis, founder and editor of the liberal Sojourners magazine.
Q90 FM pulled its sponsorship of the Lifest Christian music festival over the fact that Jim Wallis is on the speakers' line up, citing disagreements with him over a humanistic message of social justice.
The station has a statement on its site that says, in part:
it continues:
And most notably, the station ends their statement with this (emphasis theirs):
For months, Lifest founder Bob Lenz has been in conversations with local pastors and others who raised concerns over featuring Wallis – who is considered a progressive Christian – at the popular Lifest.
Glenn Beck appears to place a lot of emphasis on research and prayer, and he has not called for a complete boycott of all things "social justice." What he rails against is the social justice that's tied to politics, the "I'll let the government fix my problems" mentality, which if you read the Scriptures is something we're warned to avoid.
On his March 2 radio show, Glenn Beck told listeners:
On-air he continued:
His producer further clarified in the Washington Post.
So, what can we learn from all of this?
Q90 FM pulled its sponsorship of the Lifest Christian music festival over the fact that Jim Wallis is on the speakers' line up, citing disagreements with him over a humanistic message of social justice.
The station has a statement on its site that says, in part:
"While we value the work of Life Promotions, proudly partnering with them for many years in our shared mission to reach youth for Christ, we became concerned with the beliefs and teachings of one of the main speakers at Lifest 2010, Jim Wallis. After researching extensively the words and published positions of Jim Wallis and his organization, Sojourners Magazine, and seeking fervently the guidance of the Holy Spirit in prayer, we believe the social justice message and agenda they promote is a seed of secular humanism, seeking an unholy alliance between the Church and Government."
it continues:
"Humanism says, "It's up to us to save us, our planet, the poor", instead of "It's up to God and His power through us". Humanism says "man is inherently good--it's only the social constructs, such as too-limited a government or our free-enterprise, capitalist economy that oppress man, making him do evil", instead of "man is inherently sinful, responsible for his own choice to sin, and in need of a Savior." (Romans 1:25). The humanistic social justice message in many of Sojourners' issue FAQs points to government as the solution, instead of our Lord Jesus Christ."
And most notably, the station ends their statement with this (emphasis theirs):
"We are not calling for a boycott of Lifest. We do not view Jim Wallis as an enemy nor do we think of Life Promotions as the enemy or a bad organization. We believe Life Promotions is doing great things for the Kingdom of God . We just have a fundamental disagreement on the wisdom of bringing Mr. Wallis to Lifest. We realize many great things occur at Lifest through the music and many of the speakers. In these increasingly challenging times with growing threats to God's people, we ask every Christian to read the Bible with great discernment, look at the views of Sojourners and the opposing views, and prayerfully seek God's wisdom and guidance. If you do attend Lifest this year, our prayer is that you will be blessed and that God will bless Lifest and our friends at Life Promotions."
For months, Lifest founder Bob Lenz has been in conversations with local pastors and others who raised concerns over featuring Wallis – who is considered a progressive Christian – at the popular Lifest.
Glenn Beck appears to place a lot of emphasis on research and prayer, and he has not called for a complete boycott of all things "social justice." What he rails against is the social justice that's tied to politics, the "I'll let the government fix my problems" mentality, which if you read the Scriptures is something we're warned to avoid.
On his March 2 radio show, Glenn Beck told listeners:
I beg you, look for the words “social justice” or “economic justice” on your church Web site. If you find it, run as fast as you can. Social justice and economic justice, they are code words…social justice is a perversion of the Gospel.”
On-air he continued:
Progressives have done such an effective job perverting charity over the years it is stunning. There are millions of people who accept now that social justice comes from the government. It doesn't. It comes from individuals and God. But it's people like Wallis teaching us that that is the essence of the Bible.
His producer further clarified in the Washington Post.
So, what can we learn from all of this?
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
The untamed faith of the Discovery Channel’s ‘Man vs. Wild’ star
It takes guts to para-glide over Antarctica, hike through remote jungles and eat yak eyeballs for dinner.
It also takes a little faith, according to a fun new profile of Bear Grylls, the star of Discovery Channel’s Man vs. Wild adventure show in Relevant magazine.
Grylls, the appropriately-named star of the nature show, is a devout Christian and told Relevent that he gets strength from God to take risks in nature. He says he sometimes feel as if he is “being held” when he is in the wild:
It also takes a little faith, according to a fun new profile of Bear Grylls, the star of Discovery Channel’s Man vs. Wild adventure show in Relevant magazine.
Grylls, the appropriately-named star of the nature show, is a devout Christian and told Relevent that he gets strength from God to take risks in nature. He says he sometimes feel as if he is “being held” when he is in the wild:
It’s about being strengthened. It’s about having a backbone run through you from the Person who made you. It’s about being able to climb the biggest mountains in the world with the Person who made them.
Best Selling Songs of the Year... So Far
TobyMac comes in at #43 (Get Back Up) and #45 (City on Our Knees) on Amazon's list of Top 50 best selling songs. Amy Grant appears at #50 (Better Than A Hallelujah).
TobyMac also shows up at #29 on best selling albums. Lifehouse shows up at #34 and #48.
TobyMac also shows up at #29 on best selling albums. Lifehouse shows up at #34 and #48.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Francesca Battistelli Heads Back to the Studio
It’s been quite a busy summer for Francesca Battistelli. She started recording her next album, she and her husband Matt have begun to 'baby-proof' their new home in Georgia and travels to shows almost every weekend. Despite the crazy life she may have right now, she can clearly see God working in her life and is thankful for it all! On StereoTruth she talks about the top 5 musicians she’d like to tour with some day including Needtobreathe and TobyMac.
Former Live Frontman Feels Reborn With New Solo CD
Live was one of the most popular rock bands of the last decade selling 20 million albums. Lead singer Ed Kowalczyk has moved on, however, and reunited with his Christian faith. After growing up Catholic, Kowalczyk experimented with Buddhism and has now come full circle recording songs with Christian overtones as a solo artist with former “American Idol” rocker and Christian Chris Daughtry.
Ed Kowalczyk spoke about his faith in recent interview with CNN's Belief blog: "I went through a whole seeker's life," he said.
The 38-year-old will soon be touring to promote his debut solo album "Alive," out July 6, and says fans will see a "rekindled Ed" and one at peace as a Christian:
"I definitely feel the presence and continue to feel the presence of a higher power that I'm connected to in faith," he said. "That's God."
Ed Kowalczyk spoke about his faith in recent interview with CNN's Belief blog: "I went through a whole seeker's life," he said.
The 38-year-old will soon be touring to promote his debut solo album "Alive," out July 6, and says fans will see a "rekindled Ed" and one at peace as a Christian:
"I definitely feel the presence and continue to feel the presence of a higher power that I'm connected to in faith," he said. "That's God."
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Church Being Relevant: Dad Life
One of the challenges that churches and Christian artists face is being relevant and breaking through the clutter. This church does a fine job of creating a 'viral' piece with nice production quality. One could argue that it needs more connection to the church, but it's an entertaining piece.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Michael W. Smith, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Charlie Daniels at Freedom Concert
Sean Hannity's Freedom Concerts are scheduled for this August, and Michael W. Smith and Charlie Daniels are on the bill again, with Lynyrd Skynyrd joining the production.
All net proceeds (after musical talent, production, promotion and venue expenses) from ticket sales are donated to the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund, which provide for the education of children of U.S. service members who have been killed or 100% permanently disabled in an operational mission or training accident.
The shows take place in New Jersey, Ohio, Georgia, Florida, Oklahoma, Texas, Nevada and California.
Learn more here.
All net proceeds (after musical talent, production, promotion and venue expenses) from ticket sales are donated to the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund, which provide for the education of children of U.S. service members who have been killed or 100% permanently disabled in an operational mission or training accident.
The shows take place in New Jersey, Ohio, Georgia, Florida, Oklahoma, Texas, Nevada and California.
Learn more here.
Michael W. Smith's Worship Goes Double Platinum
Michael W. Smith celebrates his first Double-Platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for his 2001 Worship album and Platinum certification for his 2002 Worship Again album. The Double-Platinum status signifies the distribution of more than 2 million copies and Platinum more than 1 million copies. Smith’s career sales approach 15 million with a new album set to release in September.
Smith has inspired millions with his music, and the RIAA certifications further testify to his popularity and impact as an artist. Throughout his distinguished career, the RIAA has certified 16 of Smith’s projects as Gold with sales of more than 500,000. Out of this list, six were later certified Platinum and one Double-Platinum.
Smith has inspired millions with his music, and the RIAA certifications further testify to his popularity and impact as an artist. Throughout his distinguished career, the RIAA has certified 16 of Smith’s projects as Gold with sales of more than 500,000. Out of this list, six were later certified Platinum and one Double-Platinum.
Court's Decision a Serious Setback for Freedom of Expression
The Supreme Court has ruled against a Christian campus group that sued after a California law school denied it official recognition because the student organization limits its core membership to those who share its beliefs on faith and marriage.
At issue was the conflict between a public university's anti-discrimination policies and a private group's freedom of religion and association.
In dissent, Justice Samuel Alito wrote, "I do not think it is an exaggeration to say that today's decision is a serious setback for freedom of expression in this country." He was supported by Chief Justice John Roberts, and Justices Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas.
Justice Anthony Kennedy was the swing vote in this contentious case.
At issue was the conflict between a public university's anti-discrimination policies and a private group's freedom of religion and association.
In dissent, Justice Samuel Alito wrote, "I do not think it is an exaggeration to say that today's decision is a serious setback for freedom of expression in this country." He was supported by Chief Justice John Roberts, and Justices Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas.
Justice Anthony Kennedy was the swing vote in this contentious case.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
The Afters' "Light Up The Sky" Featured On Final Season Of MTV's "The Hills" Tonight
The latest single from The Afters', "Light Up the Sky," will be used in the popular MTV show "The Hills" tonight. The show, in its final season, airs on MTV on Tuesday evenings at 10/9 central.
No stranger to television exposure, The Afters' music has also received placement in NBC's "Secrets of the Mountain" soundtrack, "Grey's Anatomy" (ABC), "8th & Ocean" (MTV), "Dr. Phil," "Army Wives" (Lifetime) and "Rachael Ray."
A digital EP from the band will release on July 13 and feature new songs "Light Up the Sky," "We Won't Give Up" and "Runaway." The band's third full-length album titled Light Up the Sky will release on Sept. 14.
No stranger to television exposure, The Afters' music has also received placement in NBC's "Secrets of the Mountain" soundtrack, "Grey's Anatomy" (ABC), "8th & Ocean" (MTV), "Dr. Phil," "Army Wives" (Lifetime) and "Rachael Ray."
A digital EP from the band will release on July 13 and feature new songs "Light Up the Sky," "We Won't Give Up" and "Runaway." The band's third full-length album titled Light Up the Sky will release on Sept. 14.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Remembering Dana Key
Touching thoughts from Todd Agnew.
Clay Crosse
Doug Van Pelt
Eddie Degarmo here and here
Jeff Finley
Clay Crosse
Doug Van Pelt
Eddie Degarmo here and here
Jeff Finley
Sanctus Real Lead Singer's Family Struggles Through Difficult Pregnancy
GRAMMY-nominated Sanctus Real released its fifth studio album, Pieces Of A Real Heart, in March amidst growing critical acclaim. As the first radio single from the album, “Forgiven,” went to the top of the charts becoming one of the most played Christian radio singles this year, the second single, “Lead Me,” was released last week. Already a hit, the song is a personal confession and prayer written by lead vocalist Matt Hammitt, and is proving to be a source of hope as he and his wife, Sarah, walk through a difficult pregnancy.
“My wife and I aren’t shy about sharing that we’ve had some pretty major struggles,” admits Matt after his wife implored him to be a better spiritual leader in the family. “I think the challenge for me in the song, and hopefully for other men as well, is every time I hear it, every time I sing it, I ask myself, ‘what kind of man am I?’ Not yesterday, not tomorrow, what kind of man am I today? Have I invested in my family emotionally, spiritually the way that God has called me to reach out to them and to lead them.”
Implementing this shift in daily priorities, Matt is now walking together with Sarah through one the most difficult points yet in their marriage. Parents to Emmy and Claire, the couple is struggling to bring to term their first baby boy, Bowen Matthew Hammitt. Bowen, which means "small victorious one," is 26-weeks-old and has been diagnosed with a serious heart defect called Hypoplastic Left Heart (HLHS).
“On April 12th of this year, Sarah and I walked into our nineteen week ultrasound excited to find out whether we were having a boy or a girl. Since we’ve already been blessed with two beautiful girls, we were excited to find out it was little boy! However, shortly after the ultrasound, our OB [obstetrician] entered the room and said she had some bad news.
“Knowing Bowen is sick has brought me face to face with the sobering reality that none of us are promised tomorrow and has pulled that nagging ache, the one to make every moment count, straight to the surface of my daily life,” confesses Matt on a blog he and Sarah created to give updates on Bowen at http://bowensheart.com/.
Again finding encouragement and strength in the song “Lead Me,” Matt and Sarah share the story of the song on video at sanctusreal.com. Hoping to help other couples struggling in their marriage, Sanctus Real also leads corporate prayers that can be found on the website.
“My wife and I aren’t shy about sharing that we’ve had some pretty major struggles,” admits Matt after his wife implored him to be a better spiritual leader in the family. “I think the challenge for me in the song, and hopefully for other men as well, is every time I hear it, every time I sing it, I ask myself, ‘what kind of man am I?’ Not yesterday, not tomorrow, what kind of man am I today? Have I invested in my family emotionally, spiritually the way that God has called me to reach out to them and to lead them.”
To lead them with strong hands / To stand up when they can’t /
Don’t want to leave them hungry for love / Chasing things that I could give up /
I’ll show them I’m willing to fight / And give them the best of my life /
So we can call this a home / Lead me, ‘cause I can’t do this alone /
Father, lead me, ‘cause I can’t do this alone
Implementing this shift in daily priorities, Matt is now walking together with Sarah through one the most difficult points yet in their marriage. Parents to Emmy and Claire, the couple is struggling to bring to term their first baby boy, Bowen Matthew Hammitt. Bowen, which means "small victorious one," is 26-weeks-old and has been diagnosed with a serious heart defect called Hypoplastic Left Heart (HLHS).
“On April 12th of this year, Sarah and I walked into our nineteen week ultrasound excited to find out whether we were having a boy or a girl. Since we’ve already been blessed with two beautiful girls, we were excited to find out it was little boy! However, shortly after the ultrasound, our OB [obstetrician] entered the room and said she had some bad news.
“Knowing Bowen is sick has brought me face to face with the sobering reality that none of us are promised tomorrow and has pulled that nagging ache, the one to make every moment count, straight to the surface of my daily life,” confesses Matt on a blog he and Sarah created to give updates on Bowen at http://bowensheart.com/.
Again finding encouragement and strength in the song “Lead Me,” Matt and Sarah share the story of the song on video at sanctusreal.com. Hoping to help other couples struggling in their marriage, Sanctus Real also leads corporate prayers that can be found on the website.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Natalie Grant Announces Pregnancy
Source: NatalieGrant.com
"Surprised. Shocked. Stunned. These are just a few ways to describe how I felt when I got a positive pregnancy test. Pregnant? Me? No way. Wow. Just wow.
Most of you know that I have twin daughters. Gracie & Bella are three years old now. What some of you may or may not know is what I had to go through to become a mommy in the first place. Having been told that my husband and I would probably never conceive, it was quite a process indeed. It was a long road of costly fertility treatments and LOTS of shots. But praise God, He blessed us with TWO miracles.
But fast forward 4 years and imagine my surprise when that little pregnancy test showed a positive sign. Huh? I thought this wasn’t possible? Oh, yeah, that’s right: “with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26
So, I wanted to share my big news. We’re due on Christmas Day. What a gift. I can’t wait till the morning sickness has passed. And I’ve only had a few strange cravings so far.
Be encouraged today. God always has the last word in the situations of our lives. That doesn’t always mean he’ll give us the miracle we’re praying for our the answer we’ve begged Him for. That’s the hard part. His ways are higher than ours. But, no sky contains and no DOUBT restrains the greatness of our God. Rest in that truth today.
Love from me and my “bump”,
Natalie"
"Surprised. Shocked. Stunned. These are just a few ways to describe how I felt when I got a positive pregnancy test. Pregnant? Me? No way. Wow. Just wow.
Most of you know that I have twin daughters. Gracie & Bella are three years old now. What some of you may or may not know is what I had to go through to become a mommy in the first place. Having been told that my husband and I would probably never conceive, it was quite a process indeed. It was a long road of costly fertility treatments and LOTS of shots. But praise God, He blessed us with TWO miracles.
But fast forward 4 years and imagine my surprise when that little pregnancy test showed a positive sign. Huh? I thought this wasn’t possible? Oh, yeah, that’s right: “with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26
So, I wanted to share my big news. We’re due on Christmas Day. What a gift. I can’t wait till the morning sickness has passed. And I’ve only had a few strange cravings so far.
Be encouraged today. God always has the last word in the situations of our lives. That doesn’t always mean he’ll give us the miracle we’re praying for our the answer we’ve begged Him for. That’s the hard part. His ways are higher than ours. But, no sky contains and no DOUBT restrains the greatness of our God. Rest in that truth today.
Love from me and my “bump”,
Natalie"
Friday, June 18, 2010
Rebecca St. James on Hannity
Popular Grammy Award winning Christian artist, Rebecca St. James was on Fox News Channel’s “Hannity” this week making her third appearance on the “Great American Panel” panel in the last few months.
With the fall 2009 release of her starring role in the film, “Sarah’s Choice,” giving voice to a strong pro life agenda, Rebecca is devoting time this year, amidst plans for new music and more films, to a series of special appearances nationally for crisis pregnancy and right to life organizations.
She describes her involvement on behalf of the centers as one the most rewarding results of her creative association with "Sarah’s Choice."
With the fall 2009 release of her starring role in the film, “Sarah’s Choice,” giving voice to a strong pro life agenda, Rebecca is devoting time this year, amidst plans for new music and more films, to a series of special appearances nationally for crisis pregnancy and right to life organizations.
She describes her involvement on behalf of the centers as one the most rewarding results of her creative association with "Sarah’s Choice."
“My passion for the pro-life message has grown tremendously as I have encountered firsthand the dedication and importance of their mission for the unborn. It is just beautiful to see their work, and I’ve felt so incredibly fulfilled and energized, coming alongside of what they’re doing and supporting them in such a small way,”she noted in a recent interview.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Day of Fire Announces Indefinite Hiatus
Yesterday, Day Of Fire announced on their Facebook page that they will be taking an "indefinite hiatus." The brief announcement was as follows:
The band recently released their third cd, Losing All, this Spring on Razor & Tie Records. They're a great band, but this shouldn't come as a complete surprise since they had to creatively fund the recording of their last CD.
"We have decided to take an indefinite hiatus. Sincere thanks to all our friends, fans, and associates who've supported us along the way. We've greatly enjoyed the years spent making music together. We'll be playing 3 more shows this year: Ichthus, Lifelight, and Night of Joy. We'd love to see you all out there for a proper goodbye rocking."
The band recently released their third cd, Losing All, this Spring on Razor & Tie Records. They're a great band, but this shouldn't come as a complete surprise since they had to creatively fund the recording of their last CD.
Andrea Bocelli Thanks Mom for Saving Him
Singer Andrea Bocelli has publicly thanked his mother for not aborting him.
In a YouTube video posted by an American pro-life group, Bocelli was playing the piano in a charity performance for Haiti. He told the story about how a young pregnant woman went into the hospital with appendicitis.
Bocelli said doctors put ice on her stomach, and later suggested she have an abortion, since they believed the baby would be born with some disability.
“But the young brave wife decided not to abort, and the child was born,” the singer recounted, sitting at the piano. “That woman was my mother, and I was the child.”
Bocelli, who has sold more than 70 million records, was born partially blind, with congenital glaucoma. When he was still a boy he lost his sight completely.
“I hope this could encourage any mothers who sometimes find themselves in difficult situations, in those moments when life is complicated, but want to save the life of their baby.”
Despite the strong influence of the Catholic Church in Italy, there’s very little debate about abortion in the country, and it’s hardly even an issue in political campaigns.
Bocelli was born in 1958, and abortion was not legalized in Italy until 20 years later, leading some Italian bloggers today to charge that the singer was making the story up.
In a YouTube video posted by an American pro-life group, Bocelli was playing the piano in a charity performance for Haiti. He told the story about how a young pregnant woman went into the hospital with appendicitis.
Bocelli said doctors put ice on her stomach, and later suggested she have an abortion, since they believed the baby would be born with some disability.
“But the young brave wife decided not to abort, and the child was born,” the singer recounted, sitting at the piano. “That woman was my mother, and I was the child.”
Bocelli, who has sold more than 70 million records, was born partially blind, with congenital glaucoma. When he was still a boy he lost his sight completely.
“I hope this could encourage any mothers who sometimes find themselves in difficult situations, in those moments when life is complicated, but want to save the life of their baby.”
Despite the strong influence of the Catholic Church in Italy, there’s very little debate about abortion in the country, and it’s hardly even an issue in political campaigns.
Bocelli was born in 1958, and abortion was not legalized in Italy until 20 years later, leading some Italian bloggers today to charge that the singer was making the story up.
Andrea Bocelli Thanks Mom for Saving Him
Singer Andrea Bocelli has publicly thanked his mother for not aborting him.
In a YouTube video posted by an American pro-life group, Bocelli was playing the piano in a charity performance for Haiti. He told the story about how a young pregnant woman went into the hospital with appendicitis.
Bocelli said doctors put ice on her stomach, and later suggested she have an abortion, since they believed the baby would be born with some disability.
“But the young brave wife decided not to abort, and the child was born,” the singer recounted, sitting at the piano. “That woman was my mother, and I was the child.”
Bocelli, who has sold more than 70 million records, was born partially blind, with congenital glaucoma. When he was still a boy he lost his sight completely.
“I hope this could encourage any mothers who sometimes find themselves in difficult situations, in those moments when life is complicated, but want to save the life of their baby.”
Despite the strong influence of the Catholic Church in Italy, there’s very little debate about abortion in the country, and it’s hardly even an issue in political campaigns.
Bocelli was born in 1958, and abortion was not legalized in Italy until 20 years later, leading some Italian bloggers today to charge that the singer was making the story up.
In a YouTube video posted by an American pro-life group, Bocelli was playing the piano in a charity performance for Haiti. He told the story about how a young pregnant woman went into the hospital with appendicitis.
Bocelli said doctors put ice on her stomach, and later suggested she have an abortion, since they believed the baby would be born with some disability.
“But the young brave wife decided not to abort, and the child was born,” the singer recounted, sitting at the piano. “That woman was my mother, and I was the child.”
Bocelli, who has sold more than 70 million records, was born partially blind, with congenital glaucoma. When he was still a boy he lost his sight completely.
“I hope this could encourage any mothers who sometimes find themselves in difficult situations, in those moments when life is complicated, but want to save the life of their baby.”
Despite the strong influence of the Catholic Church in Italy, there’s very little debate about abortion in the country, and it’s hardly even an issue in political campaigns.
Bocelli was born in 1958, and abortion was not legalized in Italy until 20 years later, leading some Italian bloggers today to charge that the singer was making the story up.
Mr. T Thinks 'A-Team' Movie is Too Graphic
Mr. T pities the fools who made "The A-Team" movie.
The star of the hit '80s action show recently attended a screening of the movie and panned it for its sex and violence.
"People die in the film and there's plenty of sex but when we did it, no one got hurt and it was all played for fun and family entertainment," the 58-year-old T, who played B.A. Baracus, has said. "These seem to be elements nobody is interested in anymore."
T reportedly refused to make a cameo in the film, which hits theaters this Friday, and clearly, he isn't regretting his decision.
"It was too graphic for me," he said. "I've no doubt it will do big business at the box office, but it's nothing like the show we turned out every week."
The star of the hit '80s action show recently attended a screening of the movie and panned it for its sex and violence.
"People die in the film and there's plenty of sex but when we did it, no one got hurt and it was all played for fun and family entertainment," the 58-year-old T, who played B.A. Baracus, has said. "These seem to be elements nobody is interested in anymore."
T reportedly refused to make a cameo in the film, which hits theaters this Friday, and clearly, he isn't regretting his decision.
"It was too graphic for me," he said. "I've no doubt it will do big business at the box office, but it's nothing like the show we turned out every week."
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
CCM Mag Confirms Dana Key's Passing
CCMmagazine.com confirms that Dana Key, of legendary band DeGarmo and Key passed away Sunday night from a ruptured blood clot. Key was a senior pastor at TLC Community Church in Memphis, Tennessee. The site also has thoughts by Clay Crosse.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Dana Key Passes Away
According to a tweet by Jamie Rowe of Guardian fame, Dana Key from Christian band Degarmo & Key passed away suddenly from a blood clot. Please pray for his family & friends.
Ironically, late last month, The Love of Christ Church in Cordova TN (where Key was Senior Pastor), announced a fundraiser for the flood victims in West Tennessee featuring a reunion by DeGarmo & Key on June 13th.
Ironically, late last month, The Love of Christ Church in Cordova TN (where Key was Senior Pastor), announced a fundraiser for the flood victims in West Tennessee featuring a reunion by DeGarmo & Key on June 13th.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
The Elms Announce Break-Up
The Elms announced their break-up after a decade together. With the announcement, the band released a statement that reads in part:
They also noted they are releasing
The rest of the announcement can be read here.
It is with equal parts gratitude and humility with which I write you today to say that this July, after ten extraordinary years of life lived closely together, the members of The Elms will very amicably part ways and end our tenure as a rock and roll band. There are no salacious discrepancies between band members to report to you, and no dramatic elements to run through the rumor mill! Simply stated, the time has come to move on.
As a band, our personal affections for one another are at an all-time high. I have respect beyond the capability of words for Christopher, Thomas, and Nathan -- and I'll maintain forever that there is not a better, tighter, smarter, and more intuitive musical unit than they are, both together and individually. For a full decade of my life, I got to be in my favorite band, and it was cracklin' the whole time. And the fact that our final and favorite album, "The Great American Midrange," was our highest-charting ever? Well, an outstanding note to end on.
They also noted they are releasing
a fantastic digital box set called "STOPPIN' ON A DIME: LIVE & RARE 2000-2010." We've worked hard on this compilation, which contains 40 tracks chosen from countless hours that the boys and I spent recording and performing together over the last decade - including songs that many of you have been asking about for a long, long time. We've also created a particularly special retrospective digi-book that we'd love for you to flip through and see a few great moments in the life of this band, presented through the eyes of some wonderfully talented photographers. You know, memory lane and all that...
The rest of the announcement can be read here.
Kevin Max Trying to Reunite DC Talk?
As buzz continues to build for the first release of the new Michael Tait-fronted Newsboys on July 13th, and TobyMac continues to celebrate his recent fourth solo project, the third member of DC Talk has begun rallying fans in support of petitioning a reunion of the band for 2011. As JesusFreakHideout reports, last night, Kevin Max posted on his Twitter feed/Facebook page, "Trying to get a dct tour happening, perhaps next year, any of you down? ;)"
The response to Max's teaser post was overwhelming, and he soon responded "Oh and to answer all of your lovely enquiries, yes I am serious- I don't want to see the bands legacy go down like a Lost Titanic." Again Max posted again on his Facebook page, "Who wants to start a petition with me right here to bring dctalk back after the Intermission? - sign your name and I will forward to the appropriate people."
We have to wonder how likely it would be for Toby and Michael to pull away from their full-time duties with their respective ventures for a reunion. Would Toby be willing to put his thriving solo career with the Diverse City Band on hold? Would Michael be able or interested in leaving the Newsboys for such a reunion? Or, more realistically, would it have to be a tour that would include all the bands (and wouldn't it be rather exhausting to perform two major shows in one night for a tour?)?
It's probably much too early to tell whether anything will come of this, but the mere fact Max is being so adamant about the idea of a DC Talk reunion and their "Intermission" ending really has us curious. What DC Talk fan hasn't dreamed of a reunion tour or new music since they disbanded after their "DC Talk Solo Tour" in 2001? And after all, a tour next year would be the 10 year anniversary since their last one.
Max shared with GMC:
Coincidentally, JesusFreakHideout announced the results of their 7th Annual Reader's Choice Awards earlier this week and DC Talk won the category of "Artist You Would Like To See Return" by a landslide.
The response to Max's teaser post was overwhelming, and he soon responded "Oh and to answer all of your lovely enquiries, yes I am serious- I don't want to see the bands legacy go down like a Lost Titanic." Again Max posted again on his Facebook page, "Who wants to start a petition with me right here to bring dctalk back after the Intermission? - sign your name and I will forward to the appropriate people."
We have to wonder how likely it would be for Toby and Michael to pull away from their full-time duties with their respective ventures for a reunion. Would Toby be willing to put his thriving solo career with the Diverse City Band on hold? Would Michael be able or interested in leaving the Newsboys for such a reunion? Or, more realistically, would it have to be a tour that would include all the bands (and wouldn't it be rather exhausting to perform two major shows in one night for a tour?)?
It's probably much too early to tell whether anything will come of this, but the mere fact Max is being so adamant about the idea of a DC Talk reunion and their "Intermission" ending really has us curious. What DC Talk fan hasn't dreamed of a reunion tour or new music since they disbanded after their "DC Talk Solo Tour" in 2001? And after all, a tour next year would be the 10 year anniversary since their last one.
Max shared with GMC:
I am happy for both of the guys and their own careers, but I do believe that the dcTalk legacy and the band that we created and worked together for years in building has suffered from disregard. I am probably equally to blame for this, as the initial push for my own solo project started at the Intermission period. But I thought we all held in the back of our minds the chance and inspiration to create music together again at some other juncture. I guess we will have to wait and see how the others members feel about that now.
Coincidentally, JesusFreakHideout announced the results of their 7th Annual Reader's Choice Awards earlier this week and DC Talk won the category of "Artist You Would Like To See Return" by a landslide.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Their Music Is Out of this World
It's safe to say that singer/songwriter Matt Maher’s music is out of this world. His latest album Alive Again orbited aboard space shuttle Atlantis, servicing its final scheduled journey after almost a quarter-century of missions.
Maher’s music has become a staple carry-on item for NASA astronaut, Mike Good, who has officially selected Maher’s song “Alive Again” as one of his “wake-up songs” -- not only reviving Good from an outer space slumber but the rest of the STS-132 and International Space Station crew as well.
This marks the third year in a row that Maher’s music has visited the cosmos. In June 2008 and 2009 Matt’s previous album Empty & Beautiful found its way onto shuttle Discovery for NASA Mission STS-124 with astronaut Ron Garan and aboard Atlantis STS-125 with Mike Good.
Garan carried Jaci Velasquez's album Llegar a Ti with him on a recent trip to space.
Garan flew onboard the Space Shuttle Discovery on a recent 14 day mission that included nearly 9 days docked at the International Space Station, 220 miles above Earth. The disc orbited Earth 218 times, traveling over 5.7 million miles and reaching speeds over 17,000 miles per hour (Mach 25).
Following the mission, Garan sent the disc that he had carried into space to Velasquez, along with a Certificate of Authenticity and a photo of Garan holding the CD on board the International Space Station.
"There are so many milestones in my career that I could never have anticipated," says Velasquez. "And this is definitely one of them. To hold this CD in my hands and to know that it's literally been around the world is incredible. I'm so honored."
Throughout her career, Velasquez has sold over 3.5 million albums, garnered 3 RIAA certified Platinum recordings, 3 RIAA certified Gold recordings, 16 #1 radio hits and has graced more than 50 magazine covers.
Full articles here and here.
Maher’s music has become a staple carry-on item for NASA astronaut, Mike Good, who has officially selected Maher’s song “Alive Again” as one of his “wake-up songs” -- not only reviving Good from an outer space slumber but the rest of the STS-132 and International Space Station crew as well.
This marks the third year in a row that Maher’s music has visited the cosmos. In June 2008 and 2009 Matt’s previous album Empty & Beautiful found its way onto shuttle Discovery for NASA Mission STS-124 with astronaut Ron Garan and aboard Atlantis STS-125 with Mike Good.
Garan carried Jaci Velasquez's album Llegar a Ti with him on a recent trip to space.
Garan flew onboard the Space Shuttle Discovery on a recent 14 day mission that included nearly 9 days docked at the International Space Station, 220 miles above Earth. The disc orbited Earth 218 times, traveling over 5.7 million miles and reaching speeds over 17,000 miles per hour (Mach 25).
Following the mission, Garan sent the disc that he had carried into space to Velasquez, along with a Certificate of Authenticity and a photo of Garan holding the CD on board the International Space Station.
"There are so many milestones in my career that I could never have anticipated," says Velasquez. "And this is definitely one of them. To hold this CD in my hands and to know that it's literally been around the world is incredible. I'm so honored."
Throughout her career, Velasquez has sold over 3.5 million albums, garnered 3 RIAA certified Platinum recordings, 3 RIAA certified Gold recordings, 16 #1 radio hits and has graced more than 50 magazine covers.
Full articles here and here.
Stryper to Host Holy Land Tour For Fans in 2011
Platinum-selling rock band Stryper announced today that they will be hosting a 10-day tour of the Holy Land February 12-21, 2011. The once-in-a-lifetime VIP tour will be limited to 150 people. Stryper fans will be able to spend time with the band during this unique travel opportunity, with portions of the trip being filmed for an upcoming DVD.
"Oz, Robert, Tim and I are excited to go to Israel and see first-hand the birthplace of Christianity," says lead vocalist/guitarist Michael Sweet. "And to be able to share this experience with some of our fans makes this even more incredible."
The tour will visit the following locations in Israel:
* Caesarea: A city built by King Herod the Great
* Mount Carmel: Where the prophet Elijah defeated the false prophets of Baal
* Galilee Boat Ride: Where Jesus walked on the water
* Caesarea Philippi: Where the disciple Peter first confessed Jesus as the Messiah
* Nazareth Village: A recreation of a village at the time of Jesus
* Jordan River Baptism: An opportunity for those who wish to be baptized in the Jordan River
* Masada: Where the final Jewish revolt against the Romans took place
* The Dead Sea: A chance to float in the most therapeutic waters in the world
* Pools of Bethesda: Where Jesus healed the man who was lame for 37 years
* Garden Tomb: The place of Jesus’ crucifixion and Resurrection
* Yad Vashem: Memorial to the Holocaust
* Western Wall Tunnels: 60 feet below the modern city of Jerusalem
* Jerusalem: The City of God
* Mount of Olives: Where Jesus rode the donkey through the Eastern Gate
* Garden of Gethsemane: Where Jesus prayed before He was betrayed by Judas
* Western Wall: Holiest site in Judaism
Due to limited availability, this trip will sell out quickly. Reservations can be secured for only $300. To register, please contact ari@ihtours.com or 1-877-999-8868 ext 415.
The cost for this unique travel opportunity is $3,299.00 per person, which includes airfare out of Los Angeles, New York or Toronto; hotel accommodations; all buffet breakfasts and dinners; air-conditioned transportation; an English-speaking tour guide and entrance fees to all of the sites. Price is based on double-occupancy and does not include airport tax, tip fee or lunch meals.
For more information, please contact joe@amaral.tv or 1-877-628-2800.
"Oz, Robert, Tim and I are excited to go to Israel and see first-hand the birthplace of Christianity," says lead vocalist/guitarist Michael Sweet. "And to be able to share this experience with some of our fans makes this even more incredible."
The tour will visit the following locations in Israel:
* Caesarea: A city built by King Herod the Great
* Mount Carmel: Where the prophet Elijah defeated the false prophets of Baal
* Galilee Boat Ride: Where Jesus walked on the water
* Caesarea Philippi: Where the disciple Peter first confessed Jesus as the Messiah
* Nazareth Village: A recreation of a village at the time of Jesus
* Jordan River Baptism: An opportunity for those who wish to be baptized in the Jordan River
* Masada: Where the final Jewish revolt against the Romans took place
* The Dead Sea: A chance to float in the most therapeutic waters in the world
* Pools of Bethesda: Where Jesus healed the man who was lame for 37 years
* Garden Tomb: The place of Jesus’ crucifixion and Resurrection
* Yad Vashem: Memorial to the Holocaust
* Western Wall Tunnels: 60 feet below the modern city of Jerusalem
* Jerusalem: The City of God
* Mount of Olives: Where Jesus rode the donkey through the Eastern Gate
* Garden of Gethsemane: Where Jesus prayed before He was betrayed by Judas
* Western Wall: Holiest site in Judaism
Due to limited availability, this trip will sell out quickly. Reservations can be secured for only $300. To register, please contact ari@ihtours.com or 1-877-999-8868 ext 415.
The cost for this unique travel opportunity is $3,299.00 per person, which includes airfare out of Los Angeles, New York or Toronto; hotel accommodations; all buffet breakfasts and dinners; air-conditioned transportation; an English-speaking tour guide and entrance fees to all of the sites. Price is based on double-occupancy and does not include airport tax, tip fee or lunch meals.
For more information, please contact joe@amaral.tv or 1-877-628-2800.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Tenth Avenue North Debuts at #15
On the heels of its hit single “By Your Side” receiving the prestigious Song of the Year honor at this year’s GMA Dove Awards, headliners Tenth Avenue North’s The Light Meets The Dark debuted at No. 15 on the Billboard Top 200 with first week scans of 21,583.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Anatomy Of A Hit Song
Steve Ford over at Centricity Records asked several decision makers in Christian radio what makes a song a “hit.”
Shaun Groves expands upon Ford's thoughts and effectively argues that Christian hit songs often come from artists who are protagonists in a compelling life story that elicits empathy or admiration. Read here.
Shaun Groves expands upon Ford's thoughts and effectively argues that Christian hit songs often come from artists who are protagonists in a compelling life story that elicits empathy or admiration. Read here.
Third Day, TobyMac, Michael W. Smith & Max Lucado on Tour
World Vision and AEG Live announce the “Make A Difference Tour 2010” featuring New York Times best-selling author Max Lucado and some of the top names in the Christian music industry—GRAMMY® award-winning recording artists TobyMac, Michael W. Smith and Third Day.
AEG Live is producer for the “Make A Difference Tour 2010” and World Vision is the tour sponsor. The “Make A Difference Tour 2010” will make a difference for children by helping to raise up sponsors for 25,000 children through World Vision.
AEG Live is producer for the “Make A Difference Tour 2010” and World Vision is the tour sponsor. The “Make A Difference Tour 2010” will make a difference for children by helping to raise up sponsors for 25,000 children through World Vision.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Winter Jam Ranks as #2 Tour
The Winter Jam 2010 Tour Spectacular is #2 on Pollstar’s 2010 Worldwide First Quarter Ticket Sales “Top 100 Tours” chart, it was recently announced. Second to AC/DC, Winter Jam surpassed sales in excess of 400,000 tickets this year, landing the multi-artist spectacular ahead of tours by such artists as John Mayer, Bon Jovi, Coldplay, and Taylor Swift for the first quarter of 2010.
The Winter Jam Tour Spectacular, created by GRAMMY®-nominated NewSong, concluded its 15th year in March with record-breaking attendance. The 44-city tour was hosted by NewSong and featured multi-platinum artist Third Day; internationally-renowned Newsboys; Tenth Avenue North; Fireflight; and guest speaker Tony Nolan.
In addition, Premier Productions, promoter of the Winter Jam Tour, ranks as one of the top 10 promoters on Pollstar’s 2010 Worldwide First Quarter Ticket Sales “Top 50 Promoters” chart. Premier is among the top three US-based promoters on the chart.
The Winter Jam Tour Spectacular, created by GRAMMY®-nominated NewSong, concluded its 15th year in March with record-breaking attendance. The 44-city tour was hosted by NewSong and featured multi-platinum artist Third Day; internationally-renowned Newsboys; Tenth Avenue North; Fireflight; and guest speaker Tony Nolan.
In addition, Premier Productions, promoter of the Winter Jam Tour, ranks as one of the top 10 promoters on Pollstar’s 2010 Worldwide First Quarter Ticket Sales “Top 50 Promoters” chart. Premier is among the top three US-based promoters on the chart.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Kris Allen Makes Mark on the Charts
The 2009 "American Idol" champ, Kris Allen, is the show's 10th former contestant to reach the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart's top 10, following Kimberley Locke (seven top 10s), Kelly Clarkson and Chris Daughtry (with Daughtry) (four each), Clay Aiken, David Cook, and Carrie Underwood (two each) and David Archuleta, Jordin Sparks and Elliott Yamin (one).
With "Live Like We're Dying" having peaked at No. 3 on Adult Pop Songs and No. 10 on Pop Songs, Allen is the series' first graduate to send a debut single into the top 10 on all three charts.
With "Live Like We're Dying" having peaked at No. 3 on Adult Pop Songs and No. 10 on Pop Songs, Allen is the series' first graduate to send a debut single into the top 10 on all three charts.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Buy Jars of Clay EP for a Buck and Help the Nashville Flood Victims
In an effort to help flood victims in Nashville, Jars of Clay has put together an EP with five different versions of their song, "Flood." The EP is available for $1 in the music player on their site and 100% of the proceeds from your purchase will go directly to charities aiding in flood relief efforts in the Nashville community, administered by MusiCares Nashville Flood Relief.
Billboard Loves MercyMe at #3
MercyMe's "The Generous Mr. Lovewell" is the week's second-highest debut, starting at No. 3 with 88,000. It's both the highest charting album for the group and the act's best sales week ever. Previously, MercyMe hadn't gone higher than No. 12, when "Undone" debuted and peaked at that rank back in 2004. And, in terms of sales, "Lovewell's" bow beats the 84,000-start of "All That Is Within Me" back in 2007.
Monday, May 3, 2010
'Classic' Petra Announce World Tour & Recording
According to JFH, the Christian rock band Petra has announced it is back together again with its original lead singer Greg X. Volz, and line-up Louie Weaver (Drums), John Lawry (Keys, Vocals), Bob Hartman (Guitar, Vocals), and Mark Kelly (Bass, Vocals)!
"Petra will be back in the studio this Summer to re-record a CD of previous hits from the records: Never Say Die, More Power To Ya, Not of This World, and Beat the System. Classic songs like "More Power To Ya," "Judas Kiss," "Grave Robber," "Adonai," and "Beat The System" will be revamped with a modern production edge.
In addition, the band will craft some new songs to add to the classic hits on each record, with production scheduled to be completed August 10, 2010."
For the most up-to-date info on the reunion, visit classicpetra.com.
"Petra will be back in the studio this Summer to re-record a CD of previous hits from the records: Never Say Die, More Power To Ya, Not of This World, and Beat the System. Classic songs like "More Power To Ya," "Judas Kiss," "Grave Robber," "Adonai," and "Beat The System" will be revamped with a modern production edge.
In addition, the band will craft some new songs to add to the classic hits on each record, with production scheduled to be completed August 10, 2010."
For the most up-to-date info on the reunion, visit classicpetra.com.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
How Much Do Music Artists Earn Online?
There is an interesting and sobering analysis of how little artists make through digital sales and plays on informationisbeautiful.net.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Fourth Gold Album for Jeremy Camp
Jeremy Camp was awarded his fourth RIAA Gold Certified album for Beyond Measure last week in Nashville, TN. In addition to his Gold Record, BEC Recordings’ General Manager Tyson Paoletti presented Jeremy Camp with a commemorative plaque honoring over three million albums sold in his career.
"It is an overwhelming joy to see how the Lord has been faithful even though I am undeserving of it,” shared Camp on this career milestone. “I just want to continue to seek Him in all that I do, and want to always remember that it’s the Lord doing the work...not me! I'm so thankful for those who have stood by my side with much prayer and encouragement."
"It is an overwhelming joy to see how the Lord has been faithful even though I am undeserving of it,” shared Camp on this career milestone. “I just want to continue to seek Him in all that I do, and want to always remember that it’s the Lord doing the work...not me! I'm so thankful for those who have stood by my side with much prayer and encouragement."
Why Film's Golden Age Ended
Chuck Colson argues modern films are on-the-whole inferior because filmmakers have lost the art of storytelling-along with their grounding in a view of life that fits with the structure of reality. Instead, they offer false claims of salvation-along with graphic sex and violence to titillate instead of challenging the imaginations of their viewers. Requiring movie makers to exercise restraint “was, on balance, beneficial to the creative process."
Jason Castro - An 'Idol' with Soul
Though he didn't win the seventh season of American Idol, third-place finisher Jason Castro was an enduring fan favorite for his sweet demeanor and soaring performances of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" and his own ukulele-accompanied "Over the Rainbow." Both songs appear on "deluxe" versions of Castro's self-titled debut album, which released two weeks ago.
The dreadlocked singer/songwriter wants the world to know about the second part of that description—songwriter. He's not "just" a singer, like most Idol alums. Castro penned seven of the eight songs ("Hallelujah" is the eighth) on the more widely available version of the new album—mostly poems about love (he just got married in January) and friendship.
A committed Christian, Castro talked to Christianity Today about his new album, how his faith informs his songwriting and his performances, and how David Crowder Band was instrumental in his conversion.
The dreadlocked singer/songwriter wants the world to know about the second part of that description—songwriter. He's not "just" a singer, like most Idol alums. Castro penned seven of the eight songs ("Hallelujah" is the eighth) on the more widely available version of the new album—mostly poems about love (he just got married in January) and friendship.
A committed Christian, Castro talked to Christianity Today about his new album, how his faith informs his songwriting and his performances, and how David Crowder Band was instrumental in his conversion.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
The Afters & Jordin Sparks Share "Secrets of the Mountain"
The Afters’ “Never Going Back to OK” is featured on the soundtrack of the family friendly film “Secrets of the Mountain.” Hand-picked for the soundtrack by American Idol judge, Randy Jackson, The Afters’ music will be featured with the likes of Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Jordin Sparks and more on the soundtrack. The “Secrets of the Mountain” debuted in first place on NBC April 16th.
The movie focuses on a single mother who brings her family to a mountainside cabin. The film highlights values such as generosity, honesty and togetherness. The DVD version of the film bundled with the soundtrack will be available exclusively at Walmart.
The movie focuses on a single mother who brings her family to a mountainside cabin. The film highlights values such as generosity, honesty and togetherness. The DVD version of the film bundled with the soundtrack will be available exclusively at Walmart.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Winning the Debate
Trevin Wax has a fantastic article that addresses the unfortunate recent trend of Christian artists 'coming out' and how we can better defend our position. He writes in part:
Find the rest of this must-read here.
If we are to re-frame this discussion along biblical lines, then we must emphasize the necessity of repentance for the Christian faith. The point is not that the pastor and the Knapp are both sinners. It's that the pastor agrees with God about his sin, while Knapp remains in her sin without repentance. That is why he is questioning her Christianity, for Christian teaching makes clear the necessity of repentance as the entryway into the Christian family.
Find the rest of this must-read here.
Monday, April 26, 2010
"Letters to God" Remains in Top 20
Letters to God fell 42% to receipts of $800K in its second week of release. This was enough to land in 17th place, but likely not enough to keep it in theaters.
“In the movie world, in Hollywood world, that’s not a very good showing,” said David Nixon after the film's release last weekend. "And unfortunately, the theater owners are threatening to take the movie out of theaters because not enough people came this weekend."
Last week, the movie director encouraged the film’s supporters to get their friends, family, and even church to see the movie this weekend or even purchase tickets in advance for following weekends.
“That would make all the difference,” Nixon said. “We need to change this trend right now and get more people to come see the movie this weekend. And then hopefully the theater owners will keep it in theaters so that more people can see it."
“In the movie world, in Hollywood world, that’s not a very good showing,” said David Nixon after the film's release last weekend. "And unfortunately, the theater owners are threatening to take the movie out of theaters because not enough people came this weekend."
Last week, the movie director encouraged the film’s supporters to get their friends, family, and even church to see the movie this weekend or even purchase tickets in advance for following weekends.
“That would make all the difference,” Nixon said. “We need to change this trend right now and get more people to come see the movie this weekend. And then hopefully the theater owners will keep it in theaters so that more people can see it."
Friday, April 23, 2010
MercyMe Makes History As "I Can Only Imagine" Passes 1 Million Downloads
"I Can Only Imagine" becomes the first song in Christian music genre to Platinum in digital sales. Their CD "All That Is Within Me" goes Gold.
Once again MercyMe has made history as their massive multi-format single “I Can Only Imagine” recently surpassed 1 million digital downloads, making it the first song in Christian music to go platinum in the digital domain. Simultaneously, their last studio record, All That Is Within Me, received RIAA Gold certification, continuing to place MercyMe in the unique position of having had all of their studio recordings receive gold or platinum status. MercyMe will release The Generous Mr. Lovewell on May 4th.
Jeff Moseley, president of INO Records, surprised MercyMe on the Rock & Worship Roadshow last week with plaques commemorating both honors, saying, “This award is a testament to the fact that a song can change the world. Selling one million downloads is an achievement that is unprecedented in Christian music and I couldn't be happier for the guys.”
Written by lead singer Bart Millard as his father was suffering from terminal cancer, MercyMe had what seemed like overnight success with "I Can Only Imagine,” when after topping the Christian radio charts, hit #4 on the mainstream Adult Contemporary charts and top 25 on Pop/CHR and Hot AC charts. The success of the song created a nationwide groundswell, as the American public called in to radio stations all across the country requesting stations play the song.
"Once again it is overwhelming to see the success that a song which is so personal to me has touched so many lives,” says MercyMe’s Bart Millard. “We are honored that our fans continue to buy our records and support our ministry. God has been way too good to us!"
Once again MercyMe has made history as their massive multi-format single “I Can Only Imagine” recently surpassed 1 million digital downloads, making it the first song in Christian music to go platinum in the digital domain. Simultaneously, their last studio record, All That Is Within Me, received RIAA Gold certification, continuing to place MercyMe in the unique position of having had all of their studio recordings receive gold or platinum status. MercyMe will release The Generous Mr. Lovewell on May 4th.
Jeff Moseley, president of INO Records, surprised MercyMe on the Rock & Worship Roadshow last week with plaques commemorating both honors, saying, “This award is a testament to the fact that a song can change the world. Selling one million downloads is an achievement that is unprecedented in Christian music and I couldn't be happier for the guys.”
Written by lead singer Bart Millard as his father was suffering from terminal cancer, MercyMe had what seemed like overnight success with "I Can Only Imagine,” when after topping the Christian radio charts, hit #4 on the mainstream Adult Contemporary charts and top 25 on Pop/CHR and Hot AC charts. The success of the song created a nationwide groundswell, as the American public called in to radio stations all across the country requesting stations play the song.
"Once again it is overwhelming to see the success that a song which is so personal to me has touched so many lives,” says MercyMe’s Bart Millard. “We are honored that our fans continue to buy our records and support our ministry. God has been way too good to us!"
Seabird Premieres Video on Seventeen Magazine site
The band Seabird has shared its official music video to the song "Don't You Know You're Beautiful" exclusively with Seventeen.
Read more: http://www.seventeen.com/fun-stuff/17-buzz/seabird-music-video#ixzz0lygyBoit
Read more: http://www.seventeen.com/fun-stuff/17-buzz/seabird-music-video#ixzz0lygyBoit
Dove Awards Signal Christian Music's Move to the Mainstream
"American Idol" winner Jordin Sparks belts out the show's opening number.
Midway through the evening, former heavy metal band Korn's lead guitarist, Brian"Head" Welch, brings down the house with his instrumental technique and athleticism.
Toward the end of the night, bluegrass icon Ricky Skaggs sings his new single.
The lineup suggests the Grammys. But the music signals a more heavenly intent.
This is the 41st Annual Dove Awards, which air Sunday night on the Gospel Music Channel. It is Christian music's big-night equivalent to the Grammy Awards.
According to Ed Leonard, president of the Gospel Music Association, there were nine Christian singles on Billboard's top 200 that debuted in the top 25 in 2008. Last year that number increased to 13.
Generating about a half a billion dollars, Christian music sales as a percentage of all music receipts rose to 7.2 percent last year from 6.8 percent in 2008. At the same time sales of other music saw losses.
Rest of article here.
Midway through the evening, former heavy metal band Korn's lead guitarist, Brian"Head" Welch, brings down the house with his instrumental technique and athleticism.
Toward the end of the night, bluegrass icon Ricky Skaggs sings his new single.
The lineup suggests the Grammys. But the music signals a more heavenly intent.
This is the 41st Annual Dove Awards, which air Sunday night on the Gospel Music Channel. It is Christian music's big-night equivalent to the Grammy Awards.
According to Ed Leonard, president of the Gospel Music Association, there were nine Christian singles on Billboard's top 200 that debuted in the top 25 in 2008. Last year that number increased to 13.
Generating about a half a billion dollars, Christian music sales as a percentage of all music receipts rose to 7.2 percent last year from 6.8 percent in 2008. At the same time sales of other music saw losses.
Rest of article here.
Monday, April 19, 2010
TobyMac on Fox & Friends
Last week, TobyMac appeared on The Fox News Channel’s morning show Fox & Friends performing his latest single "Get Back Up."
He also gave an exclusive online bonus performance of “Boomin” from his Grammy nominated album Portable Sounds during Fox & Friend’s “After the Show Show” as well as a stripped down version for Fox’s “Strategy Room”.
He also gave an exclusive online bonus performance of “Boomin” from his Grammy nominated album Portable Sounds during Fox & Friend’s “After the Show Show” as well as a stripped down version for Fox’s “Strategy Room”.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Third Day Notches Eighth Career RIAA Gold Certification
The honors and awards for Third Day’s Live Revelations: On Stage, Off Stage, Backstage keep flowing in, as the live concert video project earned a Gold sales certification from the Recording Industry Association of America. The RIAA Gold certification follows a busy early 2010 that saw the project earn a GRAMMY Award for the band, along with Dove Award nomination for Long Form Music Video of the Year.
“We’re definitely both honored and humbled to be receiving this news. It was our desire to give our fans a real sense of what life on the road looks like – just being ourselves; sometimes tense, sometimes funny but always being real,” says bassist Tai Anderson.
The Live Revelations honor marks the band’s eighth overall Gold certification and second for a video project, with Third Day, Offerings, Offerings II, Come Together, Time, Wherever You Are and the CD/DVD version of Live Wire all hitting Gold status. (Offerings and Live Wire have also hit the organization’s Platinum threshold.)
“We’re definitely both honored and humbled to be receiving this news. It was our desire to give our fans a real sense of what life on the road looks like – just being ourselves; sometimes tense, sometimes funny but always being real,” says bassist Tai Anderson.
The Live Revelations honor marks the band’s eighth overall Gold certification and second for a video project, with Third Day, Offerings, Offerings II, Come Together, Time, Wherever You Are and the CD/DVD version of Live Wire all hitting Gold status. (Offerings and Live Wire have also hit the organization’s Platinum threshold.)
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
'Letters to God' Reaches Box Office Top 10
“Letters to God” rounded out the box office top ten in its debut weekend with a gross of $1.25 million.
Though small compared to the No. 1 movie of the weekend, “Date Night,” which grossed around $27 million, the earnings of “Letters to God” places it around where “Facing the Giants” was when it came out in 2006.
“Facing the Giants,” considered one of the big screen pioneers for independent Christian films, debuted with a $1.3 million opening weekend and went on to gross over $10 million with just a $100,000 production budget.
Though 30 times larger, the production budget of “Letters to God” is still small by Hollywood standards and makes a $1.25 million debut a good start.
The movie, inspired by a true story, was produced by one of the filmmakers behind “Facing the Giants” and “Fireproof” and tells the story of a young cancer-stricken boy who corresponds regularly with God through prayers in the form of letters.
Though initially unsure about what to do with the letters, the beleaguered mailman assigned to deliver the ailing boy's letters decides to make a series of choices that will change his life and help the young boy touch the lives of those around him.
Though small compared to the No. 1 movie of the weekend, “Date Night,” which grossed around $27 million, the earnings of “Letters to God” places it around where “Facing the Giants” was when it came out in 2006.
“Facing the Giants,” considered one of the big screen pioneers for independent Christian films, debuted with a $1.3 million opening weekend and went on to gross over $10 million with just a $100,000 production budget.
Though 30 times larger, the production budget of “Letters to God” is still small by Hollywood standards and makes a $1.25 million debut a good start.
The movie, inspired by a true story, was produced by one of the filmmakers behind “Facing the Giants” and “Fireproof” and tells the story of a young cancer-stricken boy who corresponds regularly with God through prayers in the form of letters.
Though initially unsure about what to do with the letters, the beleaguered mailman assigned to deliver the ailing boy's letters decides to make a series of choices that will change his life and help the young boy touch the lives of those around him.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Carlos Whittaker On Good Morning America
Whittaker gained overnight popularity recently when he posted a clip of his children’s back-seat sing-a-long to Beyonce’s "Single Ladies" (and the now-famous incident that followed) on his blog last week, little did he know the priceless moment would grab the attention of CBS’ "The Early Show," NBC’s "TODAY with Kathie Lee and Hoda," ABC’s "Good Morning America," AOL, CNN and “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” among others, bringing nearly 1 million views to this video on YouTube in less than 4 days.
Whittaker will be partnering with Dillon International Texas, For This Child and Adoption Access adoption agencies in Dallas to bring awareness to the issue of adoption, an issue close to his heart. To bring meaning and unexpected depth to the entertaining moment, the viral video sensation is shedding new light on a subject dear to Whittaker’s heart: adoption. Whittaker plans to harness this recent popularity and use it to help others, by partnering with local adoption agencies on his tour.
The Whittaker’s four-year-old son, Losia was adopted from South Korea in 2006, and he will be using this as a platform to encourage others to adopt and bring awareness to the issue. The first single from Whittaker’s new project, Ragamuffin Soul, titled “God of Second Chances,” penned by Whittaker, Jason Ingram and Phillip LaRue, was partially inspired by Losiah’s adoption. Radio disc jockeys and listeners will not only hear about Carlos Whittaker’s upcoming album, Ragamuffin Soul, but become better aquainted with Carlos, the family man.
A husband and father of three, Whittaker also served as a key planner and teacher at last year’s Catalyst Conference in Atlanta, which drew over 12,000 people. Whittaker can currently be seen on tour with artists Shane & Shane and John Mark McMillan.
Whittaker will be partnering with Dillon International Texas, For This Child and Adoption Access adoption agencies in Dallas to bring awareness to the issue of adoption, an issue close to his heart. To bring meaning and unexpected depth to the entertaining moment, the viral video sensation is shedding new light on a subject dear to Whittaker’s heart: adoption. Whittaker plans to harness this recent popularity and use it to help others, by partnering with local adoption agencies on his tour.
The Whittaker’s four-year-old son, Losia was adopted from South Korea in 2006, and he will be using this as a platform to encourage others to adopt and bring awareness to the issue. The first single from Whittaker’s new project, Ragamuffin Soul, titled “God of Second Chances,” penned by Whittaker, Jason Ingram and Phillip LaRue, was partially inspired by Losiah’s adoption. Radio disc jockeys and listeners will not only hear about Carlos Whittaker’s upcoming album, Ragamuffin Soul, but become better aquainted with Carlos, the family man.
A husband and father of three, Whittaker also served as a key planner and teacher at last year’s Catalyst Conference in Atlanta, which drew over 12,000 people. Whittaker can currently be seen on tour with artists Shane & Shane and John Mark McMillan.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Who has had the most #1s?
Which artist has had the most #1 Christian singles? It's a bit tricky because Billboard has only been tracking for 7 years, but the order is:
No. 1 Songs, Artist
8 - MercyMe
7 - Casting Crowns
4 - Jeremy Camp
4 - Third Day
4 - Matthew West
What about albums? The answer may surprise you, I know the Top 7 certainly did for me because of some notable absences:
No. 1 Albums, Artist
19 - Michael W. Smith
9 - Steven Curtis Chapman
8 - Amy Grant
5 - Carman
5 - Kirk Franklin
5 - MercyMe
5 - P.O.D.
No. 1 Songs, Artist
8 - MercyMe
7 - Casting Crowns
4 - Jeremy Camp
4 - Third Day
4 - Matthew West
What about albums? The answer may surprise you, I know the Top 7 certainly did for me because of some notable absences:
No. 1 Albums, Artist
19 - Michael W. Smith
9 - Steven Curtis Chapman
8 - Amy Grant
5 - Carman
5 - Kirk Franklin
5 - MercyMe
5 - P.O.D.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Winter Jam Tour Sets Attendance Records
Christian music’s annual tour, the Winter Jam Tour, has concluded its 15th year with record-breaking attendance. The 44-city Winter Jam 2010 Tour Spectacular played to a total of more than 403,000 people, setting a new record for the tour.
Hosted by NewSong, Winter Jam featured multi-platinum Third Day, Newsboys, Tenth Avenue North, Fireflight, and guest speaker Tony Nolan.
Hosted by NewSong, Winter Jam featured multi-platinum Third Day, Newsboys, Tenth Avenue North, Fireflight, and guest speaker Tony Nolan.
Relient K Joins Paramore on Tour
Platinum-selling band Paramore is hitting the road in the US from April 26th to May 16th with special guests Relient K.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Red Sizzles at the Masquerade
Coming off a 10 day tour with Breaking Benjamin, Thousand Foot Krutch and Chevelle, RED played to an intimate crowd at the Masquerade. Even though Breaking Ben isn't a Christian band, they provide a lot of exposure for Christian bands like their recent tour mates. Likewise, RED had several up and comers open for them in Atlanta.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Charlie Daniels Calls U.S. Government a 'Dictatorship'
He may proudly sing patriotic songs, but now Charlie Daniels says he's angry and disappointed by the country's leadership. Speaking out against the recent health-care reform bill, Charlie says America is on a fast downward spiral.
"We no longer have a representative government; we essentially have a dictatorship that is willing to force their will on us regardless of what we want," he says in a March 22 post on his website's "Soapbox and Message Board" titled 'Black Monday.' "This is the most despicable act ever perpetrated on the American public by the most dishonorable congress we've ever had."
Rest of article here.
"We no longer have a representative government; we essentially have a dictatorship that is willing to force their will on us regardless of what we want," he says in a March 22 post on his website's "Soapbox and Message Board" titled 'Black Monday.' "This is the most despicable act ever perpetrated on the American public by the most dishonorable congress we've ever had."
Rest of article here.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Charlie Daniels Recounts Stroke & Recovery
Charlie says he's not the type to "sit around and think, 'what if?'" after suffering a mild stroke, but he's had two friends in the radio industry suffer strokes recently and both have had a more difficult road to recovery (one is having to learn to walk again), so he knows that he was very blessed. "I will never believe it was anything other than the hand of God that got me down the mountain," says Charlie, who realized he was having a stroke when he noticed numbness in his left hand and his face.
full account here
full account here
Saturday, March 20, 2010
From Middle East to Bible Belt: Courtesy of the Press
There aren’t many who can do what Don Teague did.
A few years ago, the former Baghdad correspondent for NBC and devout Christian brought over to the United States a young Iraqi Muslim he had known for only a month.
Not only that, he also made her a part of his family.
“God has something in mind for Rafraf, and it wasn’t for her to die at the hands of Iraqi insurgents,” Teague recalls thinking.
It was at NBC’s Baghdad bureau that Teague first met Rafraf Barrak, who – at the age of 22 – was hired in the summer of 2003 to be the news bureau’s youngest translator.
Teague was only scheduled to work for one month in Baghdad before returning home to his wife and two daughters in Atlanta.
Rest of amazing story here.
Representative coverage here.
A few years ago, the former Baghdad correspondent for NBC and devout Christian brought over to the United States a young Iraqi Muslim he had known for only a month.
Not only that, he also made her a part of his family.
“God has something in mind for Rafraf, and it wasn’t for her to die at the hands of Iraqi insurgents,” Teague recalls thinking.
It was at NBC’s Baghdad bureau that Teague first met Rafraf Barrak, who – at the age of 22 – was hired in the summer of 2003 to be the news bureau’s youngest translator.
Teague was only scheduled to work for one month in Baghdad before returning home to his wife and two daughters in Atlanta.
Rest of amazing story here.
Representative coverage here.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Miley Cyrus 'Parades' on Cover
Miley Cyrus is all smiles on the cover of this week’s Parade magazine, out this Sunday (March 21).
Here’s what the 17-year-old teen queen had to share about her faith: “I don’t necessarily define my faith by going to church every Sunday. Because now when I go to church, I feel like it’s a show. There are always cameras outside. I am very spiritual in my own way. Let me make it clear, though—I am a Christian. Jesus is who saved me. He’s what keeps me full and whole. But everyone is entitled to what they believe and what keeps them full. Hopefully, I can influence people and help them follow the same path I am on, but it is not my job to tell people what they are doing wrong.”
Knowing her faith.
"The one thing I’m really strong about regarding my religious beliefs is that you should know a little bit about everything before you define your own beliefs. I think all religions have a good practice in them. Liam and I have been reading about Buddhism lately and it’s all about hope and love. To me, faith is about having a clean slate and a clean start.”
Making mistakes and learning the power of forgiveness.
“You don’t have to say, 'Well, I’m already a bad person so I might as well go ahead and do this other bad thing.' It’s about knowing sometime that what you did wasn’t always the best choice but you now have the chance to start over again. That’s the biggest thing to me about my faith: you don’t have to live tallying up all the things you’ve done wrong. It’s all about forgiveness. If God who created the world can forgive you then you can forgive yourself.”
Tweeting up controversy.
“There has been so much controversy sometimes about what I’ve said or done because I believe there are no mistakes because God is the only one who can judge us. That’s the reason I deleted my Twitter account because I said on there that I believed in gay marriage because everyone should have the right to love each other, and I got such hate mail about my being a bad person.”
Here’s what the 17-year-old teen queen had to share about her faith: “I don’t necessarily define my faith by going to church every Sunday. Because now when I go to church, I feel like it’s a show. There are always cameras outside. I am very spiritual in my own way. Let me make it clear, though—I am a Christian. Jesus is who saved me. He’s what keeps me full and whole. But everyone is entitled to what they believe and what keeps them full. Hopefully, I can influence people and help them follow the same path I am on, but it is not my job to tell people what they are doing wrong.”
Knowing her faith.
"The one thing I’m really strong about regarding my religious beliefs is that you should know a little bit about everything before you define your own beliefs. I think all religions have a good practice in them. Liam and I have been reading about Buddhism lately and it’s all about hope and love. To me, faith is about having a clean slate and a clean start.”
Making mistakes and learning the power of forgiveness.
“You don’t have to say, 'Well, I’m already a bad person so I might as well go ahead and do this other bad thing.' It’s about knowing sometime that what you did wasn’t always the best choice but you now have the chance to start over again. That’s the biggest thing to me about my faith: you don’t have to live tallying up all the things you’ve done wrong. It’s all about forgiveness. If God who created the world can forgive you then you can forgive yourself.”
Tweeting up controversy.
“There has been so much controversy sometimes about what I’ve said or done because I believe there are no mistakes because God is the only one who can judge us. That’s the reason I deleted my Twitter account because I said on there that I believed in gay marriage because everyone should have the right to love each other, and I got such hate mail about my being a bad person.”
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
'Son of Hamas': Story is God's, Not Mine
Mosab Hassan Yousef can now add “best-selling author” to his lengthy list of titles, which includes “son of one of the founders of Hamas,” “spy for the Israeli security agency Shin Bet,” “U.S. political asylum seeker,” and “follower of Jesus.”
His book, “Son of Hamas,” is No. 13 on Publishers Weekly’s list of hardcover nonfiction bestsellers, No. 11 on the New York Times’ list of hardcover nonfiction bestsellers, and No. 6 on the Washington Post’s list of top political titles.
And his story has been heard through countless media sources, including Fox News, NBC, the Wall Street Journal, CNN, GQ, and BBC.
“What I can say about ‘Son of Hamas’ – which I believe it’s not my story it’s God’s story, and it’s His project – I wish it would be successful because it’s His project,” says 32-year-old Yousef, whose father, Sheikh Hassan Yousef, was a Hamas founder and leader who spent numerous years in Israeli prisons.
Read full article here.
His book, “Son of Hamas,” is No. 13 on Publishers Weekly’s list of hardcover nonfiction bestsellers, No. 11 on the New York Times’ list of hardcover nonfiction bestsellers, and No. 6 on the Washington Post’s list of top political titles.
And his story has been heard through countless media sources, including Fox News, NBC, the Wall Street Journal, CNN, GQ, and BBC.
“What I can say about ‘Son of Hamas’ – which I believe it’s not my story it’s God’s story, and it’s His project – I wish it would be successful because it’s His project,” says 32-year-old Yousef, whose father, Sheikh Hassan Yousef, was a Hamas founder and leader who spent numerous years in Israeli prisons.
Read full article here.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Major League Baseball Plays Ball with TobyMac
The title track from TobyMac's latest CD, Tonight, has been chosen as the theme song for Major League Baseball Network's "30 Clubs in 30 Days" spring training series. The song will be featured throughout each episode.
The "30 Clubs in 30 Days" series provides extensive coverage of each MLB team with field reports, interviews, predictions and inside access to every club's training camp as Opening Day approaches.
To find out when the show airs, visit the Major League Baseball Network site.
The "30 Clubs in 30 Days" series provides extensive coverage of each MLB team with field reports, interviews, predictions and inside access to every club's training camp as Opening Day approaches.
To find out when the show airs, visit the Major League Baseball Network site.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Switchfoot drummer Chad Butler featured in cover story in Drum! magazine
Switchfoot drummer Chad Butler was featured in a 10-page cover spread in the March 2010 issue of Drum! magazine.
In the article, Butler talks about the band's two year break from touring and their latest album, Hello Hurricane, as well as his faith and the limits of the "Christian band" label.
"I'm a believer and I'm honored to be associated with the name of Christ," Butler says in the artisle. "But to call ourselves a Christian band puts up a wall and makes people feel uninvited to the party."
You can read the article online on the Drum Magazine site.
In the article, Butler talks about the band's two year break from touring and their latest album, Hello Hurricane, as well as his faith and the limits of the "Christian band" label.
"I'm a believer and I'm honored to be associated with the name of Christ," Butler says in the artisle. "But to call ourselves a Christian band puts up a wall and makes people feel uninvited to the party."
You can read the article online on the Drum Magazine site.
Carrie Underwood: My Fiance Improved My Walk with God
Grammy-winning, country music superstar Carrie Underwood said she shares a deep Christian bond with her new fiancé, whom she credits for improving her faith.
“Mike has improved my walk with God,” Underwood told People magazine in its latest issue. “It’s important to me, because down the road, I want someone who will help shape our kids into people who make the world a better place.”
The winner of the fourth season of “American Idol” became engaged to Canadian NFL hockey player Mike Fisher of the Ottawa Senators in December.
“Mike has improved my walk with God,” Underwood told People magazine in its latest issue. “It’s important to me, because down the road, I want someone who will help shape our kids into people who make the world a better place.”
The winner of the fourth season of “American Idol” became engaged to Canadian NFL hockey player Mike Fisher of the Ottawa Senators in December.
Monday, March 8, 2010
The Blind Side Captures Top Acting Oscar
First-time winners took all four acting prizes yesterday at the 82nd annual Academy Awards. Sandra Bullock won as best actress for "The Blind Side".
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Kris Allen helps out Haiti
“American Idol” season eight winner Kris Allen returns to the “Idol” stage Thursday night for a good cause.
Allen traveled to earthquake-ravaged Haiti as part of the philanthropic “Idol Gives Back” program and returns to the show to share footage of his experience, as well as perform.
During a media conference call on Monday, Allen said he had some lasting memories of volunteering in the country – especially the resilience of the Haitians.
“I got to sing a song for them and hold a couple of babies,” said Allen, who sang “Amazing Grace” for some of the survivors. “They just seemed so happy. It was a really cool experience.”
Returning to the show that made him a star is “nerve-racking,” he said, but he is happy to be involved with such a worthy cause.
“Every time I was on that stage last year it was about me, but for this it’s not,” said Allen, who participated in mission trips with his church before he entered the “Idol” competition. “This feels like a really good thing to come back for.”
Allen said he had planned to participate in the star-studded Haiti telethon, but at the last minute received an even better offer.
“I was walking into the offices at [management company] 19 [Entertainment] and Simon Fuller walked up to me said ‘How would you feel about going to Haiti?’ ” Allen recalled. “I owe all this to him, that I was able to go and actually do something. [The telethon] raised so much money and was really moving as well, but to get to go there and talk to the Haitians and see what the U.N. is doing was really great.”
Allen said that he hopes to impart to “Idol” viewers that there is still so much work to be done in the impoverished nation.
“This thing is not going away,” Allen said. “They need so much help right now, and when I say 'help,' I mean they need a lot of money right now.”
Officials said the funds will go to the United Nations Foundation Fund for Haiti to provide food, shelter, sanitation and help for rebuilding the tiny country.
Allen traveled to earthquake-ravaged Haiti as part of the philanthropic “Idol Gives Back” program and returns to the show to share footage of his experience, as well as perform.
During a media conference call on Monday, Allen said he had some lasting memories of volunteering in the country – especially the resilience of the Haitians.
“I got to sing a song for them and hold a couple of babies,” said Allen, who sang “Amazing Grace” for some of the survivors. “They just seemed so happy. It was a really cool experience.”
Returning to the show that made him a star is “nerve-racking,” he said, but he is happy to be involved with such a worthy cause.
“Every time I was on that stage last year it was about me, but for this it’s not,” said Allen, who participated in mission trips with his church before he entered the “Idol” competition. “This feels like a really good thing to come back for.”
Allen said he had planned to participate in the star-studded Haiti telethon, but at the last minute received an even better offer.
“I was walking into the offices at [management company] 19 [Entertainment] and Simon Fuller walked up to me said ‘How would you feel about going to Haiti?’ ” Allen recalled. “I owe all this to him, that I was able to go and actually do something. [The telethon] raised so much money and was really moving as well, but to get to go there and talk to the Haitians and see what the U.N. is doing was really great.”
Allen said that he hopes to impart to “Idol” viewers that there is still so much work to be done in the impoverished nation.
“This thing is not going away,” Allen said. “They need so much help right now, and when I say 'help,' I mean they need a lot of money right now.”
Officials said the funds will go to the United Nations Foundation Fund for Haiti to provide food, shelter, sanitation and help for rebuilding the tiny country.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
TobyMac's Tonight Shines Bright at #6
TobyMac nets his second top 10 album in a row with "Tonight" entering at a career-high No. 6 on Billboard, with a personal-best sales week of 79,000. This is his second top 10 album on the Billboard 200 following "Portable Sounds" in 2007. That set entered and peaked at No. 10 with 51,000 in its first week. McKeehan was also a member of DC talk, which notched five hit albums on the Billboard 200, including the No. 4-peaking "Supernatural" in 1998.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Chynna Phillips enters rehab
Chynna Phillips of Wilson Phillips-fame and more recently of Chynna Vaughn, checked herself into rehab for anxiety over the weekend, her manager, Lizzie Grubman, told PEOPLE magazine.
"After much thoughtful deliberation Chynna Phillips has checked herself into an undisclosed treatment facility for anxiety," Grubman said in a statement. "With the full support of her family and friends, she is looking forward to her recovery. We ask that people respect her and her family's privacy at this time."
Phillips, 42, is married to "Gossip Girl" star Billy Baldwin, and they have three children.
She came forward on "The Oprah Winfrey Show" to support her half-sister, Mackenzie, who made headlines with her revelations about their father, "Papa" John Phillips.
"I pray that we all get closer through this crisis," Chynna said at the time. "With prayer, anything is possible. But I would be lying to you if I didn't tell you that there are going to be some huge obstacles in front of us."
Mackenzie’s bombshell revelations were difficult for Phillips to handle, says a source close to Phillips. But she checked into rehab for a number of reasons, not just her half-sister’s allegations about their father. “It’s a combination of things,” says the source. “She hasn’t been the same since the summer.”
Another source says Phillips is in rehab to deal with stresses in her life “and not drugs or alcohol. Not at all.”
In September, the day before Mackenzie made her explosive claims, Chynna released her first album in years, "One Reason," with Vaughn Penn.
"After much thoughtful deliberation Chynna Phillips has checked herself into an undisclosed treatment facility for anxiety," Grubman said in a statement. "With the full support of her family and friends, she is looking forward to her recovery. We ask that people respect her and her family's privacy at this time."
Phillips, 42, is married to "Gossip Girl" star Billy Baldwin, and they have three children.
She came forward on "The Oprah Winfrey Show" to support her half-sister, Mackenzie, who made headlines with her revelations about their father, "Papa" John Phillips.
"I pray that we all get closer through this crisis," Chynna said at the time. "With prayer, anything is possible. But I would be lying to you if I didn't tell you that there are going to be some huge obstacles in front of us."
Mackenzie’s bombshell revelations were difficult for Phillips to handle, says a source close to Phillips. But she checked into rehab for a number of reasons, not just her half-sister’s allegations about their father. “It’s a combination of things,” says the source. “She hasn’t been the same since the summer.”
Another source says Phillips is in rehab to deal with stresses in her life “and not drugs or alcohol. Not at all.”
In September, the day before Mackenzie made her explosive claims, Chynna released her first album in years, "One Reason," with Vaughn Penn.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
TobyMac Hits iTunes And Amazon Charts
TobyMac's new CD, Tonight, hits number 2 on the iTunes album charts. He's also the #10 album and the 5th highest artist in Amazon's MP3 store (with 14 days in the top 100).
Monday, February 8, 2010
Focus on the Family Benefits from Super Bowl Buy
Focus on the Family has generated a ton of earned media from their Super Bowl buy. It was a brilliant move on their part and dramatically increase their awareness.
Two ad agencies monitored the Twittersphere to determine which brands won consumers' hearts and minds. After all, brands aren't just what the ad makers say. Brands are also what the public thinks. FOTF faired well, finishing in third place.
In contrast, according to the USA Today Ad Meter, it finished toward the bottom of the pack.
Two ad agencies monitored the Twittersphere to determine which brands won consumers' hearts and minds. After all, brands aren't just what the ad makers say. Brands are also what the public thinks. FOTF faired well, finishing in third place.
In contrast, according to the USA Today Ad Meter, it finished toward the bottom of the pack.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Tebow Super Bowl ad strikes light-hearted tone
Even the long-awaited Super Bowl ad from Focus on the Family came with a punchline.
The 30-second "Celebrate family, celebrate life" ad starring Heisman winner Tim Tebow ended with a surprise -- Tim Tebow tackling his mother after she says she nearly lost him during her pregnancy. The pair jokes that they have to be "tough" with all the family has been through.
The commercial sparked debate before it was even broadcast, and some groups called for CBS not to air it. The ad is the first such advocacy ad to appear in television's most-watched broadcast, which draws about 100 million viewers. It aired early in the first quarter.
The subtle and humorous ad made some wonder what all the fuss was about.
The commercial, which shows just Tebow and his mother, Pam, against a white backdrop, does not contain an overt antiabortion message. Instead it sends people to Focus on the Family's Web site, which tells more of the Tebows' story and offers a more straightforward message.
The devout quarterback's mother gave birth to him in the Philippines in 1987 after spurning a doctor's advice to have an abortion for medical reasons.
"I can remember so many times when I almost lost him," Pam Tebow said in describing her pregnancy.
The ad was "very gentle", which was surprising considering how much talk it generated before it even aired, said Tim Calkins, a marketing professor at Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. He said the use of humor helped make the ad more accessible -- and not off-putting to most people -- although the ad's message was hidden, which made it confusing to people who weren't familiar with it.
"I think they took a very interesting strategy. It's clearly an effort to steer away from controversy," he said. "I suspect the people they were going after understood the message, but ... for most people, I don't think the ad really did a lot for them."
Because the ad was so subtle and had so much mystery to it, it will get people whose minds are not made up about the abortion debate to evaluate the group's agenda, said Charles R. Taylor, professor of marketing at Villanova School of Business.
"To the extent that there are people that they can influence, this probably does a good job of driving them to the Web site and getting them to check it out. I think it's much more effective than something more explicit would have been," he said.
The Women's Media Center, which had objected to Focus on the Family advertising in the Super Bowl, said it was expecting a "benign" ad but not the humor. But the group's president, Jehmu Greene, said the tackle showed an undercurrent of violence against women.
"I think they're attempting to use humor as another tactic of hiding their message and fooling the American people," she said.
The ad didn't draw much attention at the Underground Lounge in New York, where the game was on. Sarah Cashin, 39, a business manager, said she didn't see why the ad was controversial.
"I didn't find it offensive. I don't quite understand why everyone was so up in arms about it," she said.
The 30-second "Celebrate family, celebrate life" ad starring Heisman winner Tim Tebow ended with a surprise -- Tim Tebow tackling his mother after she says she nearly lost him during her pregnancy. The pair jokes that they have to be "tough" with all the family has been through.
The commercial sparked debate before it was even broadcast, and some groups called for CBS not to air it. The ad is the first such advocacy ad to appear in television's most-watched broadcast, which draws about 100 million viewers. It aired early in the first quarter.
The subtle and humorous ad made some wonder what all the fuss was about.
The commercial, which shows just Tebow and his mother, Pam, against a white backdrop, does not contain an overt antiabortion message. Instead it sends people to Focus on the Family's Web site, which tells more of the Tebows' story and offers a more straightforward message.
The devout quarterback's mother gave birth to him in the Philippines in 1987 after spurning a doctor's advice to have an abortion for medical reasons.
"I can remember so many times when I almost lost him," Pam Tebow said in describing her pregnancy.
The ad was "very gentle", which was surprising considering how much talk it generated before it even aired, said Tim Calkins, a marketing professor at Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. He said the use of humor helped make the ad more accessible -- and not off-putting to most people -- although the ad's message was hidden, which made it confusing to people who weren't familiar with it.
"I think they took a very interesting strategy. It's clearly an effort to steer away from controversy," he said. "I suspect the people they were going after understood the message, but ... for most people, I don't think the ad really did a lot for them."
Because the ad was so subtle and had so much mystery to it, it will get people whose minds are not made up about the abortion debate to evaluate the group's agenda, said Charles R. Taylor, professor of marketing at Villanova School of Business.
"To the extent that there are people that they can influence, this probably does a good job of driving them to the Web site and getting them to check it out. I think it's much more effective than something more explicit would have been," he said.
The Women's Media Center, which had objected to Focus on the Family advertising in the Super Bowl, said it was expecting a "benign" ad but not the humor. But the group's president, Jehmu Greene, said the tackle showed an undercurrent of violence against women.
"I think they're attempting to use humor as another tactic of hiding their message and fooling the American people," she said.
The ad didn't draw much attention at the Underground Lounge in New York, where the game was on. Sarah Cashin, 39, a business manager, said she didn't see why the ad was controversial.
"I didn't find it offensive. I don't quite understand why everyone was so up in arms about it," she said.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Jason Crabb - Come On Down!
On the heels of his GRAMMY® Award win last week, Jason Crabb and his wife Shellye celebrated by visiting a taping of “The Price Is Right.”
While sitting in the studio audience, Jason was recognized by a contestant who spread the word of him being in attendance. Acknowledging Jason’s GRAMMY® win, “The Price Is Right” host Drew Carey congratulated him later in the taping. Afterward, Jason and Shellye were invited backstage. Jason’s appearance is slated to be featured on the March 12 broadcast of “The Price Is Right.”
While sitting in the studio audience, Jason was recognized by a contestant who spread the word of him being in attendance. Acknowledging Jason’s GRAMMY® win, “The Price Is Right” host Drew Carey congratulated him later in the taping. Afterward, Jason and Shellye were invited backstage. Jason’s appearance is slated to be featured on the March 12 broadcast of “The Price Is Right.”
Friday, February 5, 2010
Tebow’s Super Bowl ad isn’t intolerant; its critics are
Sally Jenkins thinks the government has no right to tell a woman whether she can have an abortion or not. But this pro-choice sports columnist also thinks that the group NOW is not right in trying to pull the pro-life Tim Tebow ad from airing during the Super Bowl.
"I’ll spit this out quick, before the armies of feminism try to gag me and strap electrodes to my forehead: Tim Tebow is one of the better things to happen to young women in some time," quips Sally Jenkins in a Washington Post column entitled, "Tebow’s Super Bowl ad isn’t intolerant; its critics are."
Jenkins pointed out that the public is always calling on athletes to be more responsible and to care about social issues, but when star college quarterback Tebow and his mother Pam try to tell their “genuine pro-choice story,” the group National Organization for Women goes on the attack. NOW’s criticism, Jenkins says, reveals that the group is not pro-choice but rather pro-abortion.
"Apparently NOW feels this commercial (featuring Tebow) is an inappropriate message for America to see for 30 seconds, but women in bikinis selling beer is the right one," Jenkins writes.
Rest of the article here.
"I’ll spit this out quick, before the armies of feminism try to gag me and strap electrodes to my forehead: Tim Tebow is one of the better things to happen to young women in some time," quips Sally Jenkins in a Washington Post column entitled, "Tebow’s Super Bowl ad isn’t intolerant; its critics are."
Jenkins pointed out that the public is always calling on athletes to be more responsible and to care about social issues, but when star college quarterback Tebow and his mother Pam try to tell their “genuine pro-choice story,” the group National Organization for Women goes on the attack. NOW’s criticism, Jenkins says, reveals that the group is not pro-choice but rather pro-abortion.
"Apparently NOW feels this commercial (featuring Tebow) is an inappropriate message for America to see for 30 seconds, but women in bikinis selling beer is the right one," Jenkins writes.
Rest of the article here.
Daughtry's Day of Fire
Day Of Fire teamed up with Chris Daughtry who co-wrote three new songs on the band’s upcoming new album 'Losing All'. Chris and Brian helped co-write "Hello Heartache" and "When I See You" and Chris and JP helped co-write "Airplane".
Chris opened for Day of Fire before American Idol when he was in Absent Element. He also wore a Day of Fire t shirt on the show.
This is at least the second time Chris has contributed to a Christian album since his AI success. Chris, a longtime Third Day fan, added his unique voice to “Slow Down” on Revelation.
Chris opened for Day of Fire before American Idol when he was in Absent Element. He also wore a Day of Fire t shirt on the show.
This is at least the second time Chris has contributed to a Christian album since his AI success. Chris, a longtime Third Day fan, added his unique voice to “Slow Down” on Revelation.
Paul Herlinger Passes
Paul Herlinger, the second voice actor for Whit in Adventures in Odyssey, passed away on February 2.
Paul Herlinger, who played the voice of Whit for more than thirteen years, had been taking the train from Seattle to Los Angeles to work on the show. That was a two-day journey each way, sometimes longer. But Paul did it—delayed his retirement and even came when he was having some health problems—out of his love for the show and the fans.
In the new Adventures in Odyssey shows, Mr. Whittaker is played by Andre Stojka. Andre has a similar vocal personality to both Hal Smith and Paul Herlinger. Interestingly, Andre took over several voice parts from Hal Smith, including the Owl on Winnie the Pooh.
If you'd like more information about the "Whit transition," feel free to check out this Adventures in Odyssey podcast.
Paul Herlinger, who played the voice of Whit for more than thirteen years, had been taking the train from Seattle to Los Angeles to work on the show. That was a two-day journey each way, sometimes longer. But Paul did it—delayed his retirement and even came when he was having some health problems—out of his love for the show and the fans.
In the new Adventures in Odyssey shows, Mr. Whittaker is played by Andre Stojka. Andre has a similar vocal personality to both Hal Smith and Paul Herlinger. Interestingly, Andre took over several voice parts from Hal Smith, including the Owl on Winnie the Pooh.
If you'd like more information about the "Whit transition," feel free to check out this Adventures in Odyssey podcast.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Duggar boys help save little girl's life
Josh Duggar, the first of 19 children born to Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, assisted six-year-old Maddye Plascensia who was brought by her grandmother from a 3 car wreck into Josh's nearby used car dealership.
Josh immediately called 911 and kept the dispatcher informed as his brother, John, 20, did CPR on the unresponsive child. Both young men have experience as volunteer firefighters in their hometown.
Josh said that he believes he and John were there to help. "I don't believe in coincidences," Josh said. "I think we were in the right place at the right time because God has a plan for Maddye's life. I'm glad we were there."
For full article, go to PEOPLE.com
Josh immediately called 911 and kept the dispatcher informed as his brother, John, 20, did CPR on the unresponsive child. Both young men have experience as volunteer firefighters in their hometown.
Josh said that he believes he and John were there to help. "I don't believe in coincidences," Josh said. "I think we were in the right place at the right time because God has a plan for Maddye's life. I'm glad we were there."
For full article, go to PEOPLE.com
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Music's lost decade
If you watched the Grammy Awards Sunday night, it would appear all is well in the recording industry. But at the end of last year, the music business was worth half of what it was ten years ago and the decline doesn't look like it will be slowing anytime soon.
Total revenue from U.S. music sales and licensing plunged to $6.3 billion in 2009, according to Forrester Research. In 1999, that revenue figure topped $14.6 billion.
"The digital music business has been a war of attrition that nobody seems to be winning," said David Goldberg, the former head of Yahoo music. "The CD is still disappearing, and nothing is replacing it in entirety as a revenue generator."
Now just 44% of U.S. Internet users and 64% of Americans who buy digital music think that that music is worth paying for, according to Forrester. The volume of unauthorized downloads continues to represent about 90% of the market, according to online download tracker BigChampagne Media Measurement.
The full insightful article can be found on CNN Money.
Total revenue from U.S. music sales and licensing plunged to $6.3 billion in 2009, according to Forrester Research. In 1999, that revenue figure topped $14.6 billion.
"The digital music business has been a war of attrition that nobody seems to be winning," said David Goldberg, the former head of Yahoo music. "The CD is still disappearing, and nothing is replacing it in entirety as a revenue generator."
Now just 44% of U.S. Internet users and 64% of Americans who buy digital music think that that music is worth paying for, according to Forrester. The volume of unauthorized downloads continues to represent about 90% of the market, according to online download tracker BigChampagne Media Measurement.
The full insightful article can be found on CNN Money.
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