2/12/10

Nashville, Tennesse
Raising awareness and funding, Saturday's Hati Relief Concert starring co-host Point of Grace and Mark Schultz raised over $50,000 to aid the earthquake survivors. This is not including the on-line giving made available during the webcasts. Over 3,000 tickets were sold at the Brentwood United Methodist Church while others watched via webcast.

Volunteers poured in droves to help make this event an overwhelming success. From the artists, band members, crew, record companies and steady stream of volunteers. From that perspective it was an awe-inspiring evening,” stated Stuart Dill, Point of Grace’s manager and co-event organizer.

100% of the proceeds from the night’s concert will benefit the relief efforts of UMCOR. If you would like to learn more or give on-line simply go to http://www.umcorhaiti.org.

A good reminder to us all how a little love, compassion and elbow grease can go a long, long way. Don't miss out on your opp

2/3/10

In case you missed Switchfoot's recent performance on "The Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson", not to worry! The Jan.4th performance is featured on YouTube. Switchfoot's song "Always" is the current radio single off of their latest album, Hello Hurricane, which released Nov. 3rd of last year. Bridging the gap between secular and Christian music, Switchfoot has the gift of consistently maintaining it's audience and grabbing newcomers along the way. Being a personal fan since the beginning, I am continually amazed and surprised by their ongoing passion and commitment to quality music.

Hello Hurricane is a must-have for fans and for rock lovers that are looking for something inspirational, deep and joyful. A strong sound from beginning to end, this album is worth listening to again and again. A perfect album for kicking off 2010 in a fun and uplifting way!

1/26/10

You've probably been hearing on either KLOVE or elsewhere the hit single and title track, "More Beautiful You", from artist Jonny Diaz's latest release. Touching many of us with his lyrics, the song deals with true inner beauty and helps to empower young girls and women into realizing that they are much more than a body. In a society where looks are everything, it's refreshing to see an artist tackle such big issues like these, particularly for women. As a parent of a little girl, I am constantly reminded that I have to pretty much undo all of the worldly "body image" propaganda that is taught. Some overt, some not, but continually from tv, magazines, peers, schools and the like. It's a daily battle for the minds of our children. Thankfully, Christ has overcome and he has given us the resources to do so, including good Christian music, God-breathed!  The whole album is good but this song in particular is a personal favorite, kudos Jonny!

1/13/10

Sometimes, you just have to be there. Such is the case with attendees of Winter Jam 2010 for the Newsboys. The band has announced the June 8th release of their new album, Born Again, and are giving preorder exclusives to all attendees for only $7! This is a 5-song special preview. In addition, you'll be the first to receive the new record when it comes out this summer.

No doubt this will be a much anticipated album with the new lead vocalist, Michael Tait. Jam-goers will have an additional treat by possibly having their preview album signed by the band. Watch out EBAY!

Coming to a city near you!

Winter Jam 2010 Tour Dates

1/8 – Chattanooga, TN - McKenzie Arena
1/9 - Fayetteville, NC - Crown Arena
1/10 – Charlotte, NC - Time Warner Arena
1/15 - Jacksonville, FL - Coliseum
1/16 - Tampa, FL - St. Pete Times Forum
1/17 - Duluth, GA - Gwinnett Ctr
1/22 - St. Charles, MO - Family Arena
1/23 - Champaign, IL - Assembly Hall
1/24 - Des Moines, IA - Veterans Memorial
1/28 - Reading, PA - Sovereign Ctr
1/29 – Cleveland, OH - Wolstein Ctr
1/30 - University Park, PA - Bryce Jordan Ctr
1/31 – Norfolk, VA - Scope Arena
2/4 – Cincinnati, OH - Cincinnati Gardens
2/5 - Columbus, OH - Schottenstein Ctr
2/6 - Greensboro, NC - Coliseum
2/11 - Augusta, GA - James Brown Arena
2/12 - Mobile, AL - USA Mitchell Ctr
2/13 - Greenville, SC - BI-LO Ctr
2/14 - Charleston, SC - Coliseum
2/18 - Roanoke, VA - Civic Ctr
2/19 - Columbia, SC - Colonial Life Center
2/20 - Charlottesville, VA - John Paul Jones Arena
2/21 – Nashville, TN - Sommet Center
2/25 – Tulsa, OK - BOK Ctr
2/26 – Dallas, TX - American Airlines Center
2/27 - Oklahoma City, OK - Ford Center
2/28 - Kansas City, MO - Sprint Center
3/4 - Macon, GA - Coliseum
3/5 – Tallahassee, FL - Civic Center
3/6 - Knoxville, TN - Thompson-Boling Arena
3/7 – Memphis, TN - FedEx Forum
3/11 - Ft. Wayne, IN - War Memorial
3/12 - Moline, IL - iWireless Center
3/13 - Lexington, KY - Rupp Arena
3/14 – Birmingham, AL - BJCC Arena
3/18 - Tupelo, MS - BancorpSouth Center
3/19 - Little Rock, AR - Verizon Arena
3/20 - Bossier City, LA - CenturyTel Center
3/21 - Valley Center, KS - Intrust Bank Arena
3/25 - Grand Rapids, MI - Van Andel Arena
3/26 - Ypsilanti, MI - EMU Convocation Ctr
3/27 - Normal, IL - Redbird Arena
3/28 - Louisville, KY - Freedom Hall

12/15/09

If you're like me, and you LOVE Christmas music than I have perfect cd for you! X Christmas, the Christmas album compilation that just came out with all of your favorite Christian artists and Christmas carols. Perfect for those holiday parties, relaxing by the fire or just listening to in the car. Also, great for stocking stuffer's. Here's just a taste:

Hawk Nelson - Gloria
Switchfoot - Evergreen
David Crowder Band - Feliz Navidad
Kutless - Mary Did You Know
Jars of Clay - Love Came Down At Christmas

That's just a sample of what to expect. Surprisingly enough, I am not getting a kickback or any kind of incentive for mentioning this album. I really, really like Christmas music and I love to keep up to date on the latest Christian releases. Thought I would share. Enjoy this Christmas season and remember that Jesus is the reason for the season!

God Bless!

11/25/09

With Thanksgiving just a couple days way, Steven Curtis Chapman recently shared his story of faith and hope with US Weekly magazine and CNN.com. Chapman spoke candidly about the emotional journey he and his family have been on the past 18 months since the passing of his daughter Maria. Chapman can also be seen in an upcoming issue of PEOPLE Magazine set to hit newsstands in early December.

On Thanksgiving Day, the singer/songwriter will be featured on Larry King Live for their HEROES special, where Chapman will be speaking with King and performing his debut single “Heaven Is The Face” from his latest and most personal album yet, Beauty Will Rise (11/3/09). Other guests scheduled to appear are Mariah Carey, Tyra Banks, Ben Stiller and more. This special episode of Larry King Live will air Thursday, November 26 at 8pm (EST).

The Chapman's family journey although heart-breaking, has been an inspiration not only to me but to so many. Thanksgiving is a great time to take out of our busy schedules, give of ourselves, comfort the hurting, and praise The ONE who came to save.

Bless you and Happy Thanksgiving!

10/20/09

Looking for stocking stuffers? Check out the House Of Heros new Christmas album.

It has been a busy year for House Of Heros starting with the release of The End Is Not The End CD followed by two EP releases as well as touring and finally ending the year with the release of their first holiday EP on November 10th. They will also be traveling on "The Family Force 5 Christmas Pageant Tour" kicking off November 28th for 3 weeks.

See the video for "Silent Night" here: http://www.youtube.com/houseofheroesmusic
"We had a blast making the Silent Night single last year and it was fun to go in and make a full EP of Christmas tunes. To make things even better, we're going to be doing a Christmas tour with some of our very best friends in Family Force 5! What a great way to close out the year!" Says frontman Tim Skipper. With many Christian artists releasing their own Christmas albums, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Pick your fav!

10/15/09

Breakout singer/songwriter and Male Vocalist of the Year Brandon Heath added another highlight in his first American Music Awards nomination, announced yesterday in Los Angeles. Heath will vie for the title of Favorite Artist in the Contemporary Inspirational category at the 37th AMA Awards, set for live broadcast Sunday, November 22.
“I’ve been watching the AMA’s for years -- never thought I’d have the honor of being a nominee. I consider myself very blessed to do music for a living,” Heath said upon learning of the recognition.
Heath is currently co-headlining the 40-city “Follow You” tour with Leeland and special guest Francesca Battistelli. For tour dates, and more information, please visit www.brandonheath.net, www.providentpress.com, and follow Brandon on Twitter at twitter.com/brandonheath.

Cast your vote at www.amavote.com ! Good Luck Brandon!

NEWS SOURCE: Provident Label Group

9/30/09

Just in time for the holidays, "The Best New Praise & Worship Album Ever", releasing Oct. 20th from Kingsway, is a 50-song set featuring original recordings of many of today's top worship songs. Artists such as Paul Baloche, Brenton Brown, David Crowder Band, Delirious, Hillsong United, Chris Tomlin, Michael W. Smith, just to name a few.

New worship songs featured in this set and sung by tens of millions across the globe, include: “Mighty To Save,” “Your Grace Is Enough,” “You Never Let Go,” “God Of This City” and “Our God Saves.”

The 3-CD set retails for $19.99. Makes a great stocking stuffer or gift for a friend. Support your local Christian bookstore!

9/25/09

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.....no, not really but if you are a fan of Christmas music prepare to be swept away into a winter wonderland compliments of your favorite Christian artist. Due to demand, many Christian artists are now releasing full length Christmas albums. One, I'm most excited about is by Big Daddy Weave called, Christ Is Come, releasing this week.

Produced by the band’s own Jeremy Redmon, the 10-song CD provides holiday classics and original songs, including the forthcoming radio single, “I’ll Be Brave This Christmas,” all glorifying when God became man and gave the earth the greatest gift it would ever receive.

For most holiday albums, including Christ Is Come, artists record music during the summer months in order to release the seasonal projects on time. And 100-degree weather “sort of put a dent in the ole yuletide spirit,” explains Mike.
He continues, “But I began to realize just how much I'd bought into the commercialized angle of the season and how unimportant a part that played in what truly is important about Christmas. The realization that the arrival of Emmanuel is the focus and needs to be part of our everyday focus changed everything about it for me.”
So, break out the apple cider, cuddle up with a loved one and watch for snow, while listening to the new Christmas album by Big Daddy Weave!

9/14/09

Proving that a legendary band such as Newsboys can reinvent themselves, "The Way We Roll" tour promises to be and event to remember. The group will be joined by BEC Recordings' Seventh Day Slumber, independent artist Bread of Stone, and recent Centricity Records singing Me In Motion.

Newsboys’ first dedicated tour in support of its May 2009 release, In The Hands of God, “The Way We Roll” is also the band’s first full-length tour featuring new frontman Michael Tait, who stepped into the role earlier this year. The four-act bill will visit nearly 30 cities though November, including major markets Atlanta, Houston, Chicago and Dallas. A tentative tour itinerary follows this release. For the most up-to-date list of tour dates, visit www.myspace.com/newsboys.

“My excitement is barely containable,” says newsboys frontman Michael Tait. “I’m so anticipating playing more markets, states and venues that I haven’t yet played as lead singer of newsboys. My curiosities are still very much alive as to the fans and people in general’s opinion about all that’s going on with the new newsboys!" NEWS SOURCE: Savvy Media

Check out the link to see if they are coming to a city near you - makes a great Christmas Gift!

9/3/09

After 15 years, BeBe & CeCe Winans are releasing a new album, Still, to be released on October 6th. This is a reunion that has been on the lips of fans around the world since it was announced earlier this year. Since the their self-titled debut album in 1987, this chart-topping brother and sister duo topped the R&B and inspirational charts with their debut single, "I.O.U. Me," and generated Grammy nominations, Dove and Stellar Gospel Awards. BeBe & CeCe were the first African-American artists to receive significant airplay on CCM radio stations and the second African American artists to receive the Dove Award in the Group of the Year category.

Premiering 12 new BeBe & CeCe classics, Still includes the album's
recently released lead single, "Close to You" which has received
critical acclaim and success for its soul-stirring, smooth sound and
pristine vocals. The video for the single was recently launched on
Yahoo and can be viewed by logging onto http://new.music.yahoo.com/videos. Other tracks on Still include the
heart wrenching "Grace," "Things" (featuring brother Marvin Winans),
"Let It Be" (featuring Mary Mary) and "I Found Love" (Cindy's Song)
which is destined to be the wedding song of the year.

Sure to be a big hit - way to go Winans!

NEWS SOURCE: W&W PR

8/26/09

Heard of the Ross sisters?
Nashville-based sister rock-trio Everlife has been added to one of the final stops of the Jonas Brothers World Tour, giving them an opportunity to play a rare show in front of a hometown crowd at the Sommet Center in Nashville on Tuesday, August 25th. Everlife will kick off the show with an acoustic set highlighting familiar hits plus new material from their new EP at the Love Library. The Ross sisters – Amber, Julia and Sara – came together as a group in 1997. While still in their teens, they signed to SHELTERecords before moving on to Disney’s Buena Vista Records, giving them the opportunity to perform for millions of fans while on tours with Disney teen superstars The Cheetah Girls and Miley Cyrus. “We grew up performing for years in random places; from churches to bars to parties to festivals. We always had to gauge our audience and learn what they would respond to,” says Julia. “The Disney tours helped us perfect that, how to perform for hundreds of thousands of kids, parents and teens all at once and still be able to capture them individually.”

Remaining true to their “family friendly” core and keeping the pact the sisters made as children, Everlife has become a group of unquestionably savvy business women and musicians. Although their new journey has just begun, their timeless music, harmonious vocals and deeply honest lyrics prove Julia, Sarah and Amber truly have come of age.

The Nashville-based rock trio has been added to one of the World Tour's final stops

8/21/09

Coming to a city near you? Casting Crowns teams up with Matt Redman to hit 41 cities this fall on its headlining "Until The Whole World Hears Tour ". Audiences will be the first to experience multiple new songs from the award-winning band, as highly-anticipated new music from Casting Crowns hits Christian radio airwaves in September. Fans can expect a fresh and powerful God-centered message from lead singer and Pastor Mark Hall, while the band also revisits its blockbuster catalog of crowd favorites like "Who Am I," "Lifesong" and "Praise You in this Storm."

Casting Crowns' message remains rooted in the youth ministry that Mark Hall has led on a weekly basis since 1999. That message carries through in everything, especially the steady, yet rigorous touring schedule the group has maintained since their first record. "As we travel through our journey as Christians, we come to a realization there are lots of people out there who need to hear about Jesus," Mark Hall, lead singer of Casting Crowns explains, "Through our maturity, we begin to see the world as God sees the world and work with purpose to show people Jesus, until the whole world hears."

Mark Hall's words reminded me of a great scripture found in Romans.
Romans 10:17 (Contemporary English Version)
17No one can have faith without hearing the message about Christ.

To see if they are coming to a city near you check out their link.

http://www.castingcrowns.com

NEWS SOURCE: M.Campbell & Associates
August 20, 2009

8/7/09

Britt Nicole's latest album, The Lost Get Found, released this week, is a fun, upbeat album, sure to please pop fans everywhere. The title track, "Lost Get Found", is one of my new favorite song's for the summer. Challenging all of us to not "let our fire burn out" and not to be afraid to stand out holds particular significance since we live in a culture where we are not supposed to "rock the boat". Although the album may hold some cliche lyrics the meaning behind them still rings true. Nicole's youthful sound combined with a refined beat leaves you wanting more. Nicole tears down the illusion that pop music does not contain substance. In fact the opposite is true. I've found more substance in this album than I have in most new releases. Give it a listen, it will prepare you for a great fall! God Bless!

7/09/09

As my 4 year old reminds me it's never to soon to start thinking about
Christmas. Apparently, Big Idea (Makers of Veggie Tales) think the
same thing. This fall they are releasing a new Christmas Holiday DVD,
the first in 7 years titled "Saint Nicholas - A Story of Joyful
Giving.

Featuring all-stars Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber, this new
DVD tells the story of Saint Nicholas, the world's greatest giver, and
introduces a new character, Nicky the Pepper. Bonus features include
an original new song by critically acclaimed singer-songwriter Matthew West, “Give This Christmas Away,” performed by West and GRAMMY Award-winning artist Amy Grant.

“VeggieTales Christmas releases are fan-favorites, and Saint Nicholas
is sure to become an evergreen title,” said Greg Fritz, SVP of Sales
and Marketing at Big Idea. “A national cross-promotion with Operation Christmas Child and extensive radio play of the featured song by Matthew West with Amy Grant will build great awareness of the timely message of giving.” said Greg Fritz, SVP of Sales and Marketing at Big Idea. “A national cross-promotion with Operation Christmas Child and extensive radio play of the featured song by Matthew West with Amy Grant will build great awareness of the timely message of giving.”

As a parent it's great to have resources such as Veggie Tales to help
teach the gospel message to our children. I would also recommend the
book "God Gave Us Christmas" by Lisa Tawn Bergren, excellent for small children.

God Bless!

NEWS SOURCE: Hoganson Media

7/06/09

Cortina's Blog:

Powerful. Honest. Compassionate. Just a few words to describe this
intense new video just released by Tenth Avenue North, recently named "New Artist of the Year" at the 40th Annual GMA Dove Awards. Collaborating with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association this new video for their hit song "By Your Side" was filmed exclusively to help promote and raise awareness of the Billy Graham Rapid Response team of crisis-trained chaplains.

A portion of this video will be shown on the latest Billy Graham
Television Special, airing nationwide this month. The program focuses
on the Rapid Response Team and their ministry comforting victims of
the tornado that struck Oklahoma earlier this year and victims of
Hurricane Katrina.

The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team, a ministry of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association that was developed in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, is a nationwide network of
chaplains who are specially trained to appropriately offer emotional
and spiritual care during crisis situations.

“The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team is a vital ministry that has
brought hope to victims of some of the greatest tragedies our country
has seen over the last several years,” said Jack Munday, director of
the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team. “This program, and the video from Tenth Avenue North, will give viewers a sense of what we deal with when we hit the ground in the aftermath of tragedies, and how the light of Christ can shine in the darkest of days.”

An amazing video that is worth checking out!

NEWS SOURCE: Billy Graham Evangelistic Association / Provident

6/23/09

Two years since their last release, Everyday Sunday just released
their latest album, Best Night Of Our Lives. Definitely more of a
pop-punk album than alternative rock, this style complements front man
Trey Pearson's vocals well. The album is well-written and does not
disappoint particularly after their 2007 release, Wake Up! Wake Up!
Using more electric guitar on this album, leads to an edgy and more
aggressive sound, giving them a fresh sound.

The band is passionate about the work that God has called them to do
and it is evident in their music. They love God and are unafraid to
say it. Every song on the album showcases a talented songwriter who
shows spiritual maturity. Wouldn't it be great if we could all boldly
declare our love for God, not just at home or at church but driving
down the freeway, at work or when we are talking to our neighbors.
Hope this album blesses your heart as it has blessed mine!

6/10/09

Fans of Mat Kearney can be proud of his newest release, City of Black & White, just released last month. His blend of acoustic-rock guitar tracks has showcased his creative talent. Even after a 3 year gap since his last album, Mat has proved that he still has what it takes
to make a soulful album.

“Lifeline,” a song about relying on God for survival, flows into “New
York to California,” a great ballad of piano and soft strings that
tells a picturesque story of finding a loved one. Mat has always had a
talent for writing songs that illustrate great pictures.

A great album showcasing a great talent - go check it out!

6/8/09

Fans of the movie, FIREPROOF, released last fall can purchase a CD
featuring the six artist tracks from the film. Songs from Leeland,
Third Day, and Casting Crowns, along with 10 orchestral songs from the original score. There is also a bonus, the album offers a special
FIREPROOF remix of John Waller's "While I'm Waiting" with poignant movie clips interspersed throughout the song.

Grossing more than $33 million following its September release, the
six tracks skyrocketed into the Top 100 chart on iTunes. Additionally,
the movie has sparked a demand from churches nationwide who want to use the film as a training tool for relationships.

It's great to see a movie such as FIREPROOF do well in the box office and to be used in churches as well. It's an important film with an
important message, whether you are married or single. We have to be
proactive in the protection of our marriages and relationships. The
soundtrack is also stellar, and worth checking out on iTunes. With the
success of this film and soundtrack, I hope to see more quality
productions with a good message! Go Buy It!

6/2/09

A band that is all about style and substance, The Fray’s new
self-titled album leaves listeners craving more. The uniquely
alternative piano/rock sound identifies them in a way that few bands
can.

The edgy, lead single, “You Found Me”, have song lyrics that travel
deep. On the band’s website, Slade says, “It demands so much of my
faith to keep believing, keep hoping in the unseen….. This song is
about that feeling, and the hope that I still have, buried deep in my
chest."

Definitely a feeling we can all relate to, at one time or another. The
profound song meanings weave throughout, leaving stories and messages
behind their songs for fans to interpret themselves. A great album
that will not disappoint!

5/13/09

I just recently viewed the Youtube music video of Matthew West's, The
Motions and it is powerful to say the least. After going through major
throat surgery and being unable to speak for 2 months, the artist's
life has been altered to say the least. The video follows him through
the hospital and then at home during his recovery period in which he
has nothing but a dry erase board and a pen in which to communicate.
Throughout the video he holds up questions to the camera such as -
Will my voice sound different? How will I provide for my family? What
if I couldn't do what I do?

According to matthewwest.com this season of silence wasn’t just a wake
up call for the West’s, it was a dark, uncertain place. "I saw a side
of Matthew that I had not yet really seen," says Emily (his wife). "A
more fearful side, vulnerable, less confident. But also, I saw in
Matthew a determination to allow God to do a work in his life through
this trial. I saw him commit time each day in prayer, and really seek
God for some purpose to this season."

Matthew recommitted himself to journaling his thoughts and prayers
during his season of silence. "Solitude is an uncomfortable place, and
silence is so unnatural for most of us," he relates. But over and over
again, I felt this recurring message on my heart saying, ‘Cease
striving…don’t even ask for answers, just be with Me. Be still. I am
using your voice, even when you can’t hear it.’"

Most of the songs on Something to Say were written before Matthew’s
surgery, but in many ways, it took this trial to fully understand
their meaning. "Prior to this experience, I only had a glimpse of what
these songs had to say, but having literally nothing to say for two
months, it was as if I understood what these songs were trying to
communicate all along. It’s like writing messages or taking notes and
then taking the test to see if you really ‘get’ what you’ve written.
Sometimes you’re given the message before you know what it means. Then
the test comes, and you can see how God intended everything to be."

I would encourage you to try out Matthew West's entire album,
Something to Say. Since many of us are going through uncertain times
as well, listening to Something to Say is a good reminder to praise
Jesus always, especially during our own sounds of silence. It's
through the laying down of our own vain ambition that God can do a
work in us. All we have to do is ask!

5/5/09

Tasty, spicy, and raging hot. No, I am not talking about the latest
hashbrown skillet creation at IHOP, although quite lovely, (I
recommend the bacon & cheese one), I am talking about the Grammy
nominated Christian rock band, Skillet and their "Comatose" tour, that
just launched April 2nd. Selling to sold out crowds the tour
conducting a 30-city tour will end on May 24th. For the most updated
tour information visit www.skillet.com.

Skillet could easily be described as one of the hardest working and
widely appealing acts of its generation. The single, "Rebirthing"
spent 7 weeks on the top of the Christian rock charts along with 5 of
their follow up singles. Their single for the title track received a
2008 GMA Dove Award for “Rock Song of the Year,” as well, and at the end of 2007 the band was named the No. 2 top artist on both CHR and ROCK radio year.

Following the spring tour Skillet will be headlining several summer
festivals, including Creation, Agape, Red Letter Rock, Ichthus, Alive,
Atlantafest, Summerfest, Sonshine, Hills Alive, Soulfest, Kingdom
Bound, Newsong and Disney’s Night of Joy, all leading up to the new
release.

Although the tour centers on the east coast, some of the festivals
should be hitting the west coast so do not despair, you too can get a
taste of Skillet!

Rock On!

4/29/09

I don't know if it's too soon to talk about Spirit West Coast, 2009,
but I can't help myself. Now, with two locations to choose from it
will be a tough decision. Never having actually gone myself, I have
nothing to compare it to. So, I need to hear from all of you if you
have gone before and if you are going again, which location would be
the best, Monterey (the original location) or Del Mar, (my college
stomping grounds). Both an enticing pick. Logistically speaking,
Monterey is a much closer location for me at only 5 hours away. But, I am instinctively pulled in the direction of southern California again,
love the sun. Regardless of the location, it is an event to remember.
With over 50 artists covering all musical genres, nobody will be
disappointed. Clue me in on any first timer must-haves and pointers;
I'm sure I will need them. Email me and let me know what you think!
Hope to see you there

4/23/09

Last Saturday was a big night in Nashville as Broadcast Music Inc.
(BMI) saluted Christian radio and tv during the annual Christian Music
Awards. BMI named Donald Lawrence the 2009 Christian Songwriter of the
Year. Song of the year went to Pastor Marvin Sapp and Matthew Brownie,
"Never Would Have Made It". The five categories honored were,
Christian Rock, Contemporary Christian, Inspirational, Urban Gospel
and Southern Gospel.

BMI represents more than 375,000 songwriters, composers and music
publishers in all genres of music and more than 6.5 million works.
BMI’s latest financial results, $901 million for its 2008 fiscal year,
are the highest performing right collections for any copyright
organization in the world. BMI has represented music for over 65
years.
http://www.bmi.com

Not having grown up on Christian music, I was spoiled when I finally
did come around to listening to it to realize all of the different
genres. Today, with so many options to choose from, I feel blessed to
live in a country that appreciates and honors Christian music. No
matter where your taste in music resides, at the end of the day, it is
all glorifying to God.

So whether your shopping cart on Amazon has Smitty, Bebe Winans,
tobyMac, Natalie Grant or the Gaithers, let's be thankful that God
made us all unique so that we can appreciate them all!

Rock on!

4/17/09

The next big thing. That's what 19 year old Sarah Reeves has been
called along with many other things, including, talented, gifted,
engaging. For someone so young to have received her calling is
inspiring.

According to Sarah's myspace music page, "God called me to be a
worship leader when I was 15 years old," Sarah insists. "I've stood on
that calling ever since. It takes a lot of prayer to lead worship. It
means being the same off-stage as I am on-stage. I realize I'm still a
little girl in a great big world. I understand that I am still naïve.
But I believe the Bible is true when it says to let no man despise
your youth. I have made mistakes and learned from those mistakes. The
important thing is to keep my mind on the Word of God, to be true to
who I am, and to keep growing."

Coming from a family of musicians, Sarah admits that she knew that
music would be her career from early on. Thinking that she would
follow her father's career in the mainstream music business, Sarah
said that all changed when she had a life-altering encounter with God
at a youth camp.

"For the first time in my life I saw people excited about worshiping
God, people who were pursuing God with all their hearts," Sarah
declares. "I longed for that kind of relationship with God. He called
me to be a worship leader. He told me, 'Life is not about you, Sarah.
Life is about Me. From this point on you will live to glorify My name,
to reach people, and lead them into My arms.' My life has not been the
same since that day."

"I have one goal and one true destiny," Sarah Reeves declares with an
urgency that is palpable, "and that is to bring people to the heart of
God, to help them understand His love, His mercy, and the freedom and
power of worship. My goal is to lead the nations into His arms. That's
my calling."

Her title track, "Sweet, Sweet Sound", showcases Sarah's beautiful,
uplifting vocals. Sarah's album comes out April, 21st, "Fresh
Anointing" , adds a fresh, young sound to the worship genre. We look
forward to her album's release!

4/13/09

Pair Michael W. Smith & Steven Curtis Chapman in the UNITED tour and watch great things happen. Pulling from their expansive catalog of music, the tour kicked off last week in PA. As most of you know, the Chapman family sufferred a tragic loss last year with the passing of their adopted daughter, Maria. Chapman openly shared about this time and the personal songs that he had written for Maria, (Cinderella, Miracle Of The Moment).

Chapman also shared about the family's ministry for orphans in need
called "Show Hope" and announced the plans for a new orphanage to be opened in her name, aptly titled Maria's Big House Of Hope.

Michael W. Smith impressed the fans with a piano of some of his all
time bests including, Secret Ambition, Thy Word and songs from his
latest album, A New Hallelujah. Both musical giants in themselves,
they have managed to wow fans again with their simplicity and
consistency, not even needing an opening act. More importantly, they
have shown not only through their music but through their lives that
great men can also be Godly men.

Let's pray for the UNITED 2009 tour - hope to see you there!

Cortina

4/6/09
Powerhouse songwriter/leadsinger Mike Weaver of the talented group Big Daddy Weave is not only a great artist but has taken on a new challenge with 90 in '09. His goal is to lose a whopping 90lbs in 2009 and he encourages ALL of us to join him in whatever goal God has called us to this year. Conviction about his weight really hit home for him last year as he welcomed his second son.

“Our bodies are temples that God created,” says Weaver. “I want to restore and take better care of what He has provided, as well as create a place to motivate and teach others to do the same. With 90 in ’09 we’ll all be held more accountable because we won’t be able to hide the scales.”
In addition to signing on with “Team Mike” at www.90in09.com and following Weaver’s progress, fans can also join the health challenge by uploading their own photos and tracking their successes. Participants will have access to healthy food recipes, exercise techniques and more wellness information. Individuals can further meet the 90 in ‘09 support team including renowned wellness leaders Dr. Asa Andrew, also known as “America’s Health Coach,” and Scott Reall, YMCA Restore Ministries’ founder and executive director.

His weight goal isn't slowing the group down from nonstop tour dates. Their fifth album, "What Life Would Be Like" has brought the band even closer together than before and offered new revelations and creativity into their music. According to Mike, these songs were born out of seeing just how badly we still need Jesus. What Life Would Be Like is a call to me and to everyone else who is sick and tired of same-old-same-old, to learn how to let Jesus live through us.”

Thanks Mike & Big Daddy Weave for inspiring us to reach our goals!

Phillpians 4.13

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!

3/19/09
So, as most of you have already heard or read, Peter Furler will no longer be the lead singer in Newsboys. He will be making special appearances and Michael Tait from DC Talk will be touring with the band as lead singer. Peter is expected to make a statement on the band's website soon.

As a fan of the Newsboys of course the news is surprising. We of course love DC Talk and Michael Tait and know that he will do an amazing job. Bringing a new sound and feel to the Newsboys may be challenging for some, but change is good. We can't grow otherwise.

Best to Peter Furler, and The Newsboys, we look forward to hearing the new band!