Ohio-bred rockers Sanctus Real is saying goodbye to one of the band's original
members... "As some of you may know, this weekend will be Steve [Goodrum]’s last show with Sanctus Real," announced
the band in a newsletter sent out this week. "Steve and Jodi felt God’s calling to end his time
with Sanctus. He is extremely excited to see what the Lord has for his future. Steve will remain a
close friend and brother to Sanctus Real and his time with the band was a true blessing.
Please keep Steve and Jodi in your prayers as they start a completely new time in their lives.
So, now we need to introduce you to the newest member of Sanctus Real, Dan Gartley.
Dan has been on the road working with Relient K over the past months, and we are honored to have
him on the road! Dan’s first show will be May 6th at the Agape Festival, so if you get the
chance to come out to a SR show over the next few months, make sure you say HI to Dan and welcome
him aboard." In other Sanctus news, the band's new studio project will be released sometime around
January or February of 2006. The guys will be in and out of the studio over the next couple of months
so keep them in your thought and prayers as they work on the next release! (from Sanctus Real)
Skillet has begun work on two new projects!... sort of... Frontman John Cooper and wife Korey
are planning for parenthood once again, pending the arrival of their second child, a son! John also
announced this week the plans for a new record... "We are beginning to work on some new music.
I can make no promises to when the record will be finished, or released for that matter.
We will know more over the next couple of months. I hope to be ready to record after festival
season. For those of you who are frustrated because you want some new skillet to rock your head
off to, you can pray for us to be inspired to write! Over the last year I have witnessed so
much hurt, pain, and emptiness in the world. I want to write some songs that will inspire people
to have hope. It's actually a difficult thing to do. Writing your thoughts in a way that sounds
cool is really hard! It is becoming easier in some ways because people are more open to talking
about Jesus and spiritual things. In a lot of ways, Jesus is becoming a fad. But we know that
Jesus is not a fad, he is hope, and He is everything in life that is worth living for."
(from Skillet)
The widely acclaimed singer/songwriter Matthew West
recently received the Song of the Year honor at the 27th Annual ASCAP Christian Music Awards for
his debut hit, “More.” ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers) is the
leading Performing Rights Organization in the United States, representing the world's largest
repertory which totals over 8 million copyrighted musical works of every style and genre from
more than 200,000 members. Co-written with Jason Houser and featured on Matthew West’s first
album, Happy, “More” was an out-of-the-box, record-breaking radio smash that spent over
two months at #1 on the Christian adult contemporary chart. The track also registered as one of
ASCAP’s Most Played Songs of 2004. In related news, “More” was nominated for the 2005 GMA Music
Song of the Year Award and Pop/Contemporary Song. Also, West was a New Artist of the Year
contender, and Happy was nominated for Pop/Contemporary Album as well as Album
Packaging, winning the latter award. Matthew West is currently recording his second album, History,
scheduled to release June 21. (from Sparrow Records)
Renowned Fervent Records bands Big Daddy Weave and
BarlowGirl garnered their first-ever AC No. 1 (R&R AC
Indicator) this week with “You’re Worthy Of My Praise.”
From Fervent’s acclaimed Absolute Modern Worship album released earlier this year, Big Daddy
Weave’s “You’re Worthy Of My Praise” featuring BarlowGirl additionally garnered top 10 positions
on R&R’s AC, Billboard’s Hot Christian AC, PDAdvisor’s AC and CRW’s AC charts. The song is further
adding spins at CHR and INSP. "We are thrilled with the acceptance of ‘You’re Worthy Of My Praise,’”
says Fervent president, Susan Riley. “The timing was perfect for these bands as Big Daddy Weave
prepares for their summer release and with BarlowGirl’s success in other radio formats. The
Fervent team is grateful for the Big Daddy Weave and BarlowGirl collaboration and for radio
stations believing in this song and in the artists.”
(from Word Label Group)
SHELTERecords recording artists Everlife have been
chosen to record the theme song for the upcoming Disney movie Go Figure. Go Figure
will play on Disney TV throughout the summer, and stars newcomer Jordan Hinson. Everlife will be
featured in all advertising regarding the show. The title song was written and produced by
Andy Dodd and Adam Watts, the team behind the Jesse McCartney hit "Beautiful Soul," with vocal
arrangements by Kevan Cyka (Lifehouse, REM, Hilary Duff) and Dan Needham (Stacie Orrico,
Steven Curtis Chapman). The girls will also be shooting a video in the next week for the project at
the Southern Ice Rink outside of Nashville. Gary Chapman will be directing the video that will
coincide with the release of the show, and will be featured in all TV ads and all teasers.
Go Figure is a story about a girl who, in trying to study figure skating with a w
orld-renowned Russian teacher at a private school, has to join the hockey team on scholarship to
afford the tuition. "Disney has become an integral part of our marketing campaign with Everlife.
Between the opportunities we have received through Radio Disney, Radio Disney events and now
Disney TV, we have been able to make more effective use of our marketing dollars. Disney has
welcomed Everlife into their family with open arms, and we are thrilled to be a part of their
network," explains Kevan Cyka, Producer. (from Biscuit PR)
VeggieTales fans should get ready to sing, dance and
laugh! The VeggieTales gang is hitting the road to perform their silly songs for audiences
nationwide during their 31-city, major market VeggieTales Rockin’ Tour LIVE! Fans can experience
the silliness at top venues across the country. Combining all of the well-known VeggieTales Songs,
some new Veggie friends, timeless values and plenty of that wacky humor VeggieTales fans enjoy so
much is what makes this the perfect show for kids of all ages. Taking the show out on the road
like a true concert tour, audiences can expect to see some of their all-time favorite VeggieTales
characters come to life right before their very eyes, as well as experience a few really fun surprises!
“The high-participation performance truly rocks the stage with interactive video screens, a
lighting show and surprises that will get everyone excited and in the mood for Bob, Larry and
friends,” says Terry Pefanis, Big Idea president and COO. “If you think VeggieTales characters
are funny on video, wait ‘til you see then up close and personal.”
Steve Moore, Moore Entertainment Group, adds, “We are thrilled to represent the VeggieTales
characters in this exciting NEW LIVE show. It is the perfect entertainment event for young
children, with uplifting themes and engaging visuals. For some children, it will be their first
‘live’ show experience. And the characters, the songs, the entire production will make for a
very memorable time for these children and their parents.”
(from Hoganson Media)
It looks like 38th Parallel may have been resurrected! The band recently posted on their
Myspace.com page that they're working on new material... "Well everyone, you will all finally get
what you've been asking for... 38th has been resurrected from the dead. That's right, we are back
together for real. We'll be working on new demos this summer and hopefully playing a lot of shows
again. So we will see how things go. By the way, sorry for taking so long, but here we are fully
returned!" The band has begun playing shows again around the Ames, IA area where
they're from. They played the first one last week on Friday the 22nd for
free, and played one on the Iowa State University campus on Saturday. For more info,
visit myspace.com/38thparallel
(from MySpace.com/38thParallel, thanks to Kevin V.)
Though it was 75 and sunny in Nashville last week, Steven Curtis Chapman was seen sporting a
scarf and turtleneck. Hmmm... Preparations are in the works for an album that will hit stores October 11th.
Steven told the fine folks that run his newsletter that this collection of songs "will be best for
listening between Thanksgiving and the end of the year." Stand by for more information on Steven's
new Christmas project...
(from StevenCurtisChapman.com)
Project 86 will be flew to Vancouver this past weekend to begin the recording process!
Fans can check the journal section at Project86.com for updates from the studio. The band will also be
shooting behind the scenes footage as well for the DVD during the next month which will be
released in conjunction with the new record. Keep the band in your prayers as they
are currently still writing new material for the record this week! (from Project 86)
S/R/E Recordings band Disciple is currently on tour
in promotion of their upcoming self-titled album to release June 7th. This seasoned rock-n-roll
band of four Tennessee natives fuses together heavy guitar riffs and lyrically strong choruses
forming a message for today’s young generation.
This album follows the band’s previous success with six No. 1 rock hits, four Dove nominations,
and their independent project Back Again (2003), selling more than 35,000 copies. In the February
2005 issue of CCM Magazine Reader’s Poll, Disciple was runner-up in the “Favorite Indie Artist”
category. Disciple is composed of Kevin Young (Lead Vocals), Brad Noah (Guitars), Tim Barrett
(Drums), and Joey Fife (Bass).
Disciple will be distributed both in the mainstream and CBA markets by S/R/E, partnering with Epic
Records.
(from Big Machine Media)
Seventh Day Slumber lead singer Joseph Rojas is
honored to be a part of Max Lucado’s new mega-bestselling book It’s Not About Me teen edition,
live like you mean it. The book explores how from day one we’ve been demanding our own way,
and we’re still constantly bombarded with messages telling us to “look out for #1.” It sounds
reasonable, but what happens when we just end up feeling unsatisfied and empty? That’s how Rojas
felt and as a teen from a broken home, troubled past, drug abuse and attempted suicide, he finally
realized that God had not forgotten him and called out to Jesus to save his life. Rojas'
inspirational testimony was captured in this book, hoping to inspire all teens to come to know
God and to call out to Him when they also find themselves unsatisfied and empty. He realized
it wasn’t about him, but instead it was all about God! Seventh Day Slumber is currently on their
Once Upon A Shattered Life headline tour with supporting acts Sevenglory, Benjamin and Red
Umbrella. In July they embark on the Day Of Rock tour with supporting acts Day Of Fire and
Krystal Meyers. This Fall they will be part of the third national ShoutFest tour. SDS will also
perform at the following major festivals this summer: LifeFest, Spirit West, ProLife, Kingdom
Bound, Let Freedom Ring, Newsong Festival, FreedomFest 2005 and Joshua Fest.
(from The M Collective)
Ben and Hannah Stacy of the new Southern Signal Records group Kainos are
recovering from a serious hit & run car accident that occured Monday night in their hometown of
Nashville, Tennessee. They were returning from dinner at a local restaurant with their publicist Brian Mayes of
Nashville Publicity Group when Mayes' Ford Explorer was struck by another vehicle that ran a red
light at a high rate of speed. The heavy impact caused the Explorer to spin and roll over,
totaling the vehicle. "God was with us, and I could feel His hand keeping us from continuing to roll over," comments
Hannah. "It was a reminder that we are mortal, and at any time we can go home."
To the surprise of rescue workers, there were no serious injuries, but a lot of bumps and bruises.
The driver fled the scene but was caught by police moments later and deemed to be under the
influence. Mayes and the Stacy's are recuperating at home.
Alive, the debut CD from Kainos, will be in stores April 26 from Southern Signal Records, EMI EMM and EMI CMG. Their debut single "Selfish Me" debuted last week on the Rock Chart (R&R, Christian Format) at #27.
For more information on Kainos, please visit the official website at www.Kainosmusic.com.
(from Nashville Publicity)
American Airlines selected The Afters and their
mainstream radio single “Beautiful Love” for the American Way magazine “Road Warrior” promotion.
“Beautiful Love” will air during their in-flight video during May, June, and July. During this
promotion, “Beautiful Love” will be heard on approximately 29K flights and 4.2 million passengers!
The music video for “Beautiful Love” can also be seen during April and May in more than 3,000
national retail stores such as American Eagle, FootLocker, Nordstrom and more.
(from The M Collective)
On June 22nd, 2005, Blindside will return to America
for their first US concert dates in almost a year. They will bring with them a brand new live
show, new songs and 2 very exciting new bands. The tour will be called “Black Friday”
In the tradition “The Internal Storm Tour,” Blindside once again are bringing you the most
original and entertaining tour of the summer. Tour support will be the outstanding Showbread
(www.showbread.net). This seven piece powerhouse has developed a reputation for a crazy live show
that must be seen to be believed. Opening the show is The Showdown
(www.embraced-dc.com/showdown). This young band is being courted by several majors and is sure to
make a very loud noise in 2005. For more info, visit BlinsideOnline.com!
(from Blindside)
andy hunter°, the innovative British DJ whose music
has taken the film, TV, and gaming industries by storm (including major placements in Alias, The
Italian Job, SSX 3, and Enter The Matrix), announces the launch of the MIDI signal--
a fan-based awareness network equipped and mobilized to reach the masses with his music.
Members of the MIDI signal will receive exclusive online content and first notice of andy hunter°
news and updates. They will also play a critical role in grassroots promotional projects designed
to raise awareness for andy°s unique, beat-driven music. the MIDI signal's initial projects will
lay the groundwork for the May 24 release of Life, andy°s follow-up to 2002's Exodus.
For more information, read the personal message from andy hunter° at theMIDIsignal.com.
(from Sparrow Records)
Two of today’s most recognized artist-worshipers, sixstepsrecords’ Chris Tomlin and Matt
Redman each received their first GMA Music Award during the 36th Annual GMA Music Awards
presented last week at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville. The awards show will be televised
in national syndication during the month of June with an expected audience reach of at least 75%
of U.S. households.
Chris Tomlin, nominated for three awards, received the nod for Praise & Worship Album of the
Year for Arriving. Nominated for four GMA Music Awards, Matt Redman received the award for
Worship Song of the Year for "Blessed Be Your Name."
“Blessed Be Your Name” also became an anthem of the evening as the attending artists, celebrities
and audience arose to their feet and sang the song with Redman, Tomlin and label mate David
Crowder leading on stage. The crowd continued to worship with Tomlin as he seamlessly launched
into his current radio hit, “Holy Is The Lord.”
“Receiving our first two Dove awards was pretty special for our sixstepsrecords family,” says
Louie Giglio, sixstepsrecords founder. “God has used Chris and Matt to influence the church
in worship all around the world and it's great to step back and give thanks for all He has done.”
“But the night was made complete because we were able to share it together,” continues Giglio,
“both leading during the night as a sixsteps family and walking together through it all.
Life doesn't get any better than having the privilege of carrying the Story of God with people you love.”
Peter York, President of EMI CMG Label Group, comments on the awards, "It is amazing to see how our industry has embraced Matt and Chris this year as artist-worshipers and songwriters. We have watched them be faithful to their giftings and calling to serve and resource the church over the years. It is a pleasure to see their accomplishments recognized.”
(from Hoganson Media)
Multi-platinum rock band Switchfoot was named Artist
of the Year at the 36th Annual GMA Music Awards ceremony,
leading the list of EMI CMG winners that also included worshipers Matt Redman and Chris Tomlin,
rockers Sanctus Real, and the dynamic tobyMac.
Switchfoot, whose breakthrough 2003 album, The Beautiful Letdown, continues to bridge a
gap between mainstream and Christian music audiences, was the night’s big winner with four awards.
In addition to the Artist of the Year top honor, the band won statuettes for Rock/Contemporary
Recorded Song of the Year and Short Form Music Video (“Dare You To Move”) and Long Form Music
Video (Live In San Diego). The band is set to release a brand new album later this year.
Matt Redman, the modern worship leader whose songs are widely embraced by churches and other
recording artists worldwide, received the Worship Song of the Year honor for “Blessed Be Your Name.”
Chris Tomlin, another favorite modern worship leader
whose third project, Arriving, recently charted a major #1 hit (“Indescribable”), was
awarded the Praise & Worship Album of the Year trophy.
Sanctus Real, the melodically-charged Ohio rock band that
earned massive critical acclaim for its recent sophomore album, Fight The Tide, won
Modern Rock Album of the Year.
tobyMac, an innovative Christian music mainstay whose
work with dc talk has earned many previous pop and rock honors, won Rap/Hip Hop Album of the Year
for Welcome To Diverse City.
(from EMI CMG)
BEC Recordings artist Jeremy Camp was awarded three
Dove Awards at Wednesday night’s 36th Annual GMA Music Awards, held in Nashville, TN at the Grand Ole
Opry House. Camp won, for the second year in a row, the Male Vocalist of the Year Award and was
awarded twice as performer and songwriter for Rock Recorded Song of the Year for “Stay,” his No.
1 single from his debut album Stay. Camp was 2004’s Male Vocalist of the Year from last
year’s GMA Music Awards as well as New Artist of the Year, bringing his Dove Awards total to five.
Camp also walked away with top honors at the 27th Annual ASCAP Christian Music Awards as he was
named Songwriter of the Year for his No. 1 singles “Right Here” and “Walk By Faith.” The awards
held in Nashville Monday, April 11th. (from The M Collective)
Rumor has it that Steven Curtis Chapman's already at
work on another Christmas album due out in the late Fall/early Winter, and a new Christmas tour is in
the works for that album, planned for the Fall and Winter. No official announcement has been made
yet about this news, but we'll keep you posted! In other SCC news, Steven took home two Dove Awards
Wednesday night for his contributions to The Passion Of The Christ: Songs and for co-writing
"Voice Of Truth" with Casting Crowns' Mark Hall. Also, Chapman and producer Ed Cash let it slip
to the press later that night that they will be working on a song together for the upcoming
Chronicles Of Narnia film due out this Winter. Rumor has it that two "inspired-by" compilation
projects - one from mainstream and one from the Christian industry - will be released...
(thanks to J.T. for the news)
Five Iron Frenzy recently announced the closing of their forums due to bandwidth issues, but
at the same time made an announcement regarding the future of Brave Saint Saturn...
"On a brighter note, there will be a similar, albeit temporary, forum opening on Brave Saint
Saturn's website sometime in the near future, to give loyal fans an opportunity to keep the
community alive as well as to generate interest in the band's third and final project,
The Dreams That You Dare to Dream, set to arrrive in stores Tuesday, November 15th of
this year. We look forward to seeing you all there!" (from Brave Saint Saturn, thanks to S. Griffis)-->
Rock band Day of Fire accepted its first Dove Award
at Wednesday night’s 36th Annual GMA Music Awards. The band won Rock Album of the Year for its debut
album Day of Fire that released on 10/26/04 and generated the No. 1 Hit, “Cornerstone.”
Co-written by band mates Joshua Brown and Gregg Hionis, the album features production by Scott
Humphrey (Metallica, Mötley Crüe, Rob Zombie). As the band stood together to accept the award,
front man Joshua Brown told the crowd he always knew what he would say in his acceptance speech.
“I give all the glory to God, who not only saved me from drug addiction but has given all of us a
chance at new life,” Brown said. His words were followed by a standing ovation from the audience.
Day of Fire presented three of the night’s awards with Christian music icon Sandi Patty showing
the wide range of musical styles represented that evening as they jokingly compared similarities.
“I have lots of colorful artwork on my refrigerator,” said Sandi Patty. “And I have lots of
colorful artwork on my arms,” countered Joshua Brown rolling back his jacket sleeve to reveal
his tattoo covered arm. (from Essential Records)
Word Records’ renowned singer/songwriter Nicole C. Mullen and acclaimed
rock newcomer Building 429 collected Dove Awards in top
categories at the 36th Annual GMA Music Awards, held at the Grand Ole Opry House in
Nashville. GRAMMY nominated and now nine-time Dove Award recipient Nicole C. Mullen was named
“Female Vocalist of the Year,” an honor she previously claimed in 2002. She and husband, David
Mullen, additionally took home trophies for her third national release, Everyday People, winning
in the “Urban Album” category. Currently with over 1 million in unit career sales, Nicole C.
Mullen was first honored with a Gospel Music Award in 1998 for co-writing the radio hit, “On My Knees.”
Multi-GMA Award nominated Building 429 received top-category honors as “New Artist of the Year.”
Further categories in which the band was up for awards included “Rock/Contemporary Album of the
Year,” for its critically applauded 2004 release, Space In Between Us, and “Rock/Contemporary Song
of the Year” and coveted “Song of the Year,” for Building 429’s “Glory Defined,” one of the most
successful debut radio singles ever. Last year, the song reached No. 1 on CRW’s AC radio chart
faster than any song in chart history and remained there for 10 consecutive weeks.
Both Nicole C. Mullen and Building 429 were additionally spotlighted during the evening as each
were invited to present awards to other artists. Up for multiple GMA Awards, BarlowGirl
(Fervent Records, a division of Word Label Group) also received a standing ovation following their performance
of the hit single, “Never Alone.” Other GMA Award wins included the “Country Album” honor for Randy Travis’ Passing Through and the
“Modern Rock Recorded Song” Dove for Teleprompt/Word artist
Mute Math for “Control” from its 2004 EP release, Reset.
(from Word Label Group)
Casting Crowns picked up three Dove Awards at Wednesday
night’s GMA Music Awards held at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry. The band took home the coveted Group
of the Year trophy and the Inspirational Recorded Song and Pop Contemporary Recorded Song
categories for “Voice of Truth” and “Who Am I,” respectively. In addition, Mark Hall, the band’s
lead vocalist and primary songwriter, received individual recognition for his songwriting. He
garnered the prestigious Songwriter of the Year title for the second straight year as well as
honors in the Song of the Year category for “Who Am I,” one of the most played songs on
Christian radio in 2004. Hall also received Doves as songwriter for the band’s two Recorded Song winners.
With these new honors, Casting Crowns continues its journey into unprecedented levels of success
with the RIAA Platinum certification of its self-titled debut album for sales of more than one
million copies. This momentous occasion came only fifteen months after the Sept. 30, 2003 release
of its award-winning album, making them the fastest selling debut artist in recent Christian music history.
Spurred on by record-breaking success at Christian radio, with three consecutive No. 1 singles,
its latest hit, “Voice of Truth,” is currently spending a record-setting thirteenth week at the
top of R&R’s Christian AC Monitored Chart. Two weeks ago, the band set a record at radio for
being the first artist on the R&R AC Monitored chart to hold the #1 spot for 11 consecutive
weeks. With massive touring already underway for 2005, the opening chapters of this amazing
success story are still being written.
(from Provident Music Group)
Roper announced this week an unique way to raise money for a great cause...
"In our continued effort to give something back, we have decided to do something that will benefit
one of you, as well as the orphanage we support in Kenya. Nick White, Roper's drummer, has decided
to raffle his drum set. This is the same drum set that Nick uses live during Roper's shows. You
may be thinking, "Why would I want a drum set? I have never even seen a drum set up close".
Well, you don't need to play drums to appreciate this $4,500, custom-made Pork Pie drum set.
You could make it into furniture, learn to play, or just keep it in your house to drive your
parents insane. You could even sell them to someone else or give them away. Whatever you do
with them, the kids in Kenya will definitely appreciate the support. You can register to win at
any Roper show by buying a $2 ticket or buy one online through at Roper's site -
www.roperisdumb.com. The drawing will
take place on August 31. Remember, the more tickets you purchase, the better your chances of
winning the drum set, as well as more money for the orphanage in Kenya!" (from Roper)
At a press conference held during Gospel Music Awards Week, Christian artist Nichole Nordeman
announced an exclusive partnership with SongTouch, Inc.
Making a bold statement for the industry, Nordeman announced that a preview of her newest single,
Brave, will be available for purchase exclusively to listeners on Songtouch.com. The web
service was launched at the same press conference.
Developed by industry giant Howard Rachinski, SongTouch is the newest and most comprehensive web
service dedicated to family-friendly downloads and content.
“Brave really feels like a next step for me creatively and evidence of my own musical
evolution these past few years,” notes Nordeman. “Releasing it first to Songtouch.com made perfect
sense to me, as they are on the forefront of an evolution as well, one that the artistic community
can trust, and one that the listening community will come to depend on and greatly appreciate."
Nordeman credits Rachinski with opening doors for Christian musicians worldwide. His parent
company, CCLI Inc., has broadened the music options legally available for distribution in churches
worldwide, SongTouch hopes to host the largest library of family friendly music available on the World Wide Web.
Brave is Nordeman’s first studio release in three years. The download purchase of its title track
will cost 99 cents and includes bonus audio commentary from Nordeman about the song's meaning.
It will be available in stores May 24.
(from FWA PR)
Rock act Pillar also announced an exclusive partnership with SongTouch, Inc. during the press
conference held this week. “Bring Me Down (The Underground Mix),” a single from Pillar’s May 24
release Where Do We Go From Here: Limited Edition, will be available for online purchase
exclusively through Songtouch.com from April 14th until street date. The Web service was launched
at the same press conference. The brainchild of Howard Rachinski, SongTouch is the newest and
most comprehensive web service dedicated to family-friendly downloads and content.
Noted Pillar vocalist Rob Beckley, “We’re excited to be part of this landmark event in Christian entertainment and look forward to our continued partnership with SongTouch.com.”
Pillar applauded Rachinski for providing such a service to Christian musicians worldwide. Rachinski’s parent company, CCLI Inc., has broadened the music options legally available for distribution in churches worldwide. SongTouch hopes to host the largest library of family-friendly music available on the World Wide Web.
“Bring Me Down (The Underground Mix),” a new industrial club version of last year’s hit, was
produced by Travis Wyrick (P.O.D., Spoken, Disciple). The song is one of 14 on Pillar’s
forthcoming project, including two bonus tracks. Price to download the single is $0.99.
(from FWA PR)
Riley Armstrong has been working hard on a new album and just this month signed to a new
record company in the US. "The plan is to release a fresh new album next month (May),"
announced Armstrong earlier this week. "The album will have the tune 'Cellphone' as well as the
song 'Melting' on it (I have been sharing them live for a while now), along with some more songs
that I am really excited about. The album will be available online as early as the first week in
May. I will be emailing a newsletter that day to direct you to where and when... I know what
you're thinking 'sure you'll email us a newsletter...' but honest I will." For more info
on Riley, visit RileyArmstrong.com!
(from Riley Armstrong)
We just got back from the ultra-cramped press room at the 36th Annual GMA Awards at the Grand Ole Opry
in Nashville, Tennessee. Congratulations to all of the artists who took home Doves at the event! Switchfoot, although
not present at the ceremony to accept any awards, was graced with the Artist Of The Year award and won three others including
Rock/Contemporary Song Of The Year for "Dare You To Move," as well as Short Form Video for the song and Long Form Video
for Live In San Diego. The southern gospel powerhouse The Crabb Family grabbed a healthy four awards as well,
while Casting Crowns, and frontman Mark Hall, took home a staggering six awards including Group Of The Year, Songwriter
Of The Year, and Song Of The Year. Jeremy Camp scored Male Vocalist Of The Year for the second year in a row while
Nicole C. Mullen humbly accepted Female Vocalist Of The Year for the second time and Building 429 was a shocker as
this year's New Artist Of The Year. We want to extend our special congratulations to our friends in Sanctus Real
for their win of Modern Rock Album of the Year with Fight The Tide, TobyMac for
Welcome To Diverse City in the Rap/Hip Hop Album, and MuteMath for their win
with the Modern Rock Recorded Song "Control." For a full list of all the winners, visit www.gmamusicawards.com
It's GMA week! And we're reporting to you from Nashville, Tennessee! Audio Adrenaline's frontman
Mark Stuart announced in a pressroom event yesterday that their new album Until My Heart Caves In
has been given a release date of August 30th. Also, Stuart mentioned the band's plans for a Fall Tour
called the "Until My Heart Caves In: The Festival" that will feature six bands. The lineup includes
Day Of Fire, Sanctus Real, Superchick, Pillar, Kids In The Way, and headliners Audio Adrenaline! More soon!
(from Audio Adrenaline)
Subseven is readying to take their new record Free To Conquer to the masses this year by
touring with Disciple, followed by another tour with Project 86 and Spoken and finally the Warped Tour
this summer with Mae, Underoath, Relient K, and many mainstream artists. Support the guys live when they
hit your area sometime this year! (from Subseven)
Reigning Dove Award-winning Male Vocalist and New Artist of the Year Jeremy Camp
has announced he will be headlining the Restored Tour this fall, hitting over 40 cities across the nation.
Singer/songwriter Bethany Dillon and band Tree63 are confirmed as supporting acts on this highly anticipated tour.
The tour, acquiring its name from Camps current release on BEC Recordings, will begin September 2nd and go through
November 21st. Tour dates are listed below. While planning the third headlining tour of his career, Camps manager,
Matt Balm of Flat-Out Entertainment, commented, "When we started talking about who to tour with this fall, Bethany Dillon
and Tree63 were definitely our first choice. Luckily, they agreed and we are honored to have them with us.
With this lineup, we feel there will be an amazing blend of different musical styles that will appeal to a broad
demographic," Balm continues. Those who come to the show are going to connect with these amazing artists on a spiritual
level as well as a personal level. All three artists have had tremendous radio success, giving the fans songs to look
forward to hearing during the night. The concert goer can count on a low ticket price, amazing production, and mostly,
a place to meet with God. Currently on the Undone Tour with MercyMe, Camp will be hitting the main stages at all the
major summer festivals as well as performing in Morocco at Friendship Fest May 6th through the 8th. Friendship Fest,
the outdoor festival and historic gathering bringing together Christians and Muslims, will feature musicians from both
the U.S. and Morocco on the same stage to celebrate peace and tolerance. Visit www.friendshipfest.com for more
information.
(from The M Collective)
Superchic[k]'s first week sales for their brand new -- and much delayed -- project,
Beauty From Pain, were indeed beautiful. Beauty From Pain entered at Number 1 on Soundscan's Top
Christian Album Chart selling over 6,500 units, and at Number 6 on Soundscan's Top Current Contemporary Christian chart,
selling nearly 8,800 units combining the CBA and General markets. "This is a big release for Superchic[k] and we knew
going into this record that the stakes were high," comments Inpop's General Manager Rob Poznanski. "We're ecstatic that
the marketplace has responded so positively to this band. Superchic[k]'s fans are incredible, and the retail and radio
response is overwhelming." Bruno Pirecki, General Manager of Inpop's Sales and Distribution added, "It's great to see
the culmination of efforts from all parties bear fruit. This is a such an intimately accessible record, and it's just
getting started."
(from The M Collective)
Multi-platinum California rock act Switchfoot -
named after a surfing technique - will host the Switchfoot Bro-Am, a surf contest/concert
event at Moonlight Beach in San Diego, on May 14, 2005, to raise money for Care House, an
organization serving homeless kids there in the band's hometown.
Best known for national hits "Meant To Live" and "Dare You To Move" from its current album,
The Beautiful Letdown, Switchfoot collectively stated, "Surfing and music have occupied
most of our lives...introduced us to our dreams, our friends, and most of our favorite places. The
support that we've received from the music scene and the surfing community over the years has been
simply amazing. So we've dreamed up a way to give back to the San Diego community that has given us so much."
A strongly promoted local event, the Switchfoot Bro-Am will be held from 7:00 am - 3:00 pm and is
raising Care House funds via public awareness and surfing contest entry fees ($500 per four-member
team) that include 12 tickets to a Switchfoot concert and Bro-Am awards ceremony later that same
evening. The concert will be exclusively held for Bro-Am contestants, radio contest winners, and Care House kids.
Throughout the day, the Switchfoot Bro-Am sponsors will give homeless kids a great day at the
beach, providing free shoes and clothes, surf lessons and INT foam boards, Taylor guitars and
guitar lessons, and most of all: a chance to dream.
"The biggest thing that we can do for these kids is to show them that they are important and
needed and loved," the band says.
(from Sparrow Records)
Hawk Nelson kicked off their spot as the opening act on Saturday in Ohio for the Spring Worldwide Diverse City
Tour with Audio Adrenaline, TobyMac, and Kutless. Before they could make it to their next date on Sunday
in Williamsport, PA, the band's bus caught on fire! According to bass player Daniel Biro on HawkNelson.com,
a fellow Canadian warned the band about the hazard and kept the guys out of harm's way. Due to the bus problems,
the band regretfully had to miss the Williamsport date entirely. Now the guys have a replacement
bus, so hopefully Hawk won't experience any further travel troubles! (from HawkNelson.com)
The Elms have created a MySpace.com home for fans
to get a glimpse of the band's new music, photos, writings, and more. Fans can now listen to
rough versions of "Who Puts Rock & Roll In Your Blood?" and "The Towers and the Trains"
at myspace.com/theelms. Lyrics to the
songs accompany the tracks, and you can read new bio material and see new photos of the band.
More will be added soon to the MySpace site, including scenes from The Elms' new live concert
film, Burn The Fields: The Elms Live In Indiana. Get on the band's friend list, and
invite others to The Elms' MySpace site! (from TheElms.net)
The offical launch of Grits brand new record label
"5e Entertainment" will be during GMA week, April 11th-13th, 2005.
Grits' 5e Entertainment will hold the First Annual 5e Masquerade. On April 12th, 2005 @ 10 PM
(doors open @ 8:30 PM) at the "Rhythm Kitchen" on 174 3rd N. in Nashville, TN. That night will
include the 5e Entertainment artist showcase, Grits clothing/remix fashions fashion show, and the Masquerade Afterparty!
Also that night, Grits will be shooting part of their video for their brand new single "HIGH".
It's a free admission event as well! The first release on 5e Entertainment will be the soulful
vocalist CATT, who hails from Nashville, TN. CATT's EP
will drop by the summer of 2005 and her album debut will be coming out spring of 2006
5e's first hiphop phenom goes simply by the name "IZ", straight from Jacksonville, FL. Be looking
for these artists to hit the road with Grits as soon as the summer hits!
Be on the lookout - Grits has begun recording for their new album due out in early 2006,
and they also just shot their brand new video for "HIGH!" (from grits7.com)
Ardent Records has announced it has recently inked a
deal with S/R/E Recordings, the active rock label under
INO Records, to distribute and market its entire roster, including Todd Agnew, Jonah 33 and
Skillet. New projects from Agnew and Jonah 33 are expected this fall, with a project from Skillet
anticipated in early 2006.
"We are delighted to begin a new chapter in our history by partnering with S/R/E," said Ardent
President John Fry. "We feel a strong bond of shared commitment to ministry, authenticity, and
excellence. The resources of S/R/E and the INO/Integrity system will provide exciting new
opportunities for our artists while allowing us to continue to identify and nurture innovative
artists and produce records with the independent spirit which has focused the attention of music
fans on Memphis for decades."
The Ardent partnership places S/R/E firmly on the map of active rock labels in the Christian market, just two months following its formation. S/R/E's release schedule for 2005 already includes the June 7 release from DISCIPLE, and will now feature a summer release from Todd Agnew, and late fall release from Jonah 33. In addition to the advantage this gives S/R/E, Ardent welcomes the marketing and distribution facets the staff at S/R/E is uniquely positioned with, and the skills they have to provide these artists with opportunities and outlets they may have not had before.
"We are incredibly excited to have the opportunity to work with Ardent Records. They have an amazing history of being involved with some great rock records, from both the studio side and the label. I believe the Ardent team will continue to develop and record relevant and excellent music,” states Steve Ford, S/R/E's Vice President/General Manager. “To work with another label that desires to impact culture with music is refreshing and fun. “
(from The M Collective)
The multi-platinum and Billboard charting legendary rock band
Stryper have signed a multi-album deal with Big3 Records.
The band will release their first full-length studio record since 1991 this year. The official release date will follow soon.
Fans can expect a major tour announcement in the near future along with information on the band’s
first ever soon-to-be-released DVD. Check back the week of April 4th to hear a song sample from
the forthcoming album! All official Stryper news will first be sent to the Stryper.com email list.
In other Stryper news, the band is proud to officially announce Tracy Ferrie as the bass player
for Stryper. Ferrie's bass talents are well displayed on the forthcoming Stryper albums on Big3
Records. Tracy Ferrie is not entirely new to the Stryper family as he spent many years playing in
Michael Sweet's band and performed in Orlando with Stryper at Disney's Night of Joy festival in
September of 2004. (from Stryper.com)
Rocketown recording artist Shaun Groves and his wife
Becky recently celebrated the birth of their third child, a daughter. Penelope Ann Groves was born Tuesday
morning, March 29, in Franklin, Tennessee, literally just hours after her dad placed the finishing
touches on his upcoming third CD, White Flag (releasing July 12).
Weighing in at 8lbs 13oz and 21 inches long, Penelope goes home today to join sister Gabriella,
4, and brother Gresham, 2. Congratulations to the Groves family!
(from Rocketown Records)
The wait is finally over! MySpace.com is featuring the exclusive premiere of Relient K's
new video for "Be My Escape." The video is on Relient K's MySpace profile and features a glimpse of the
trio expanded to a quintet! "Be My Escape" began playing in regular rotation on FUSE and mtvu
yesterday. In other RK news, the band is hitting the road again - this time opening for
Good Charlotte and Simple Plan on the “Noise to the World” tour.
The tour kicks off May 2nd at the Expo Square Pavilion in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
(from Relient K)
Word Records’ multi-Platinum and GRAMMY Award-winning singer and songwriter
Amy Grant has announced the release of her twentieth
album, Rock of Ages…Hymns & Faith, on May 3. The project follows the recent Recording
Industry Association of America (RIAA) Gold certification of Grant’s first hymns project,
Legacy…Hymns & Faith, marking sales in excess of 500,000 units.
Produced by Vince Gill and Brown Bannister, Rock of Ages…Hymns & Faith contains twelve
classic hymns and worship songs, including a “Rock of Ages” duet with Gill, along with a newly
recorded version “El Shaddai,” which was named “A Song of the Century” by the RIAA in 2001.
“It’s not worth making a record unless you’ve really got something to say,” said Grant. “If I
have albums to make and creative energy to do it, I want to create something timeless, and these
songs have stood the test of time.”
In addition to extensive radio and retail promotion, Grant’s Rock of Ages… Hymns & Faith
will be supported by appearances on national mainstream shows coupled with extensive print
exposure. The project is already receiving widespread media coverage with Grant recently featured
on the cover of March’s CCM Magazine along with being scheduled as the cover artist for the
magazine’s June issue. She also recently performed to enthusiastic standing ovations at two
sold-out Women of Faith conferences, leading Women of Faith president Mary Graham to comment,
“Not surprisingly, having Amy Grant at our Women of Faith events delighted the hearts of the
entire audience. Her tender heart expressed through personal story and song is remarkable, and the
courage of her faith is extraordinary. Some things never change.”
“Amy is an artist who has defined our industry,” said Jim Van Hook, Word Entertainment CEO. “Her
music continues to challenge and inspire listeners around the world and we’re thrilled to be a
part of her career which has been and continues to be filled with so many record-breaking
accomplishments. Rock of Ages...Hymns & Faith is a project that will be impacting people for years
to come.”
(from Word Records)
The GMA Music Awards will showcase fresh
faces, musical diversity and all 44 Dove Awards winners this year, according
John W. Styll, president of the Gospel Music Association (GMA). On the weekend,
Styll announced that Casting Crowns, The Crabb Family, Selah, J Moss,
BarlowGirl, Bethany Dillon, Natalie Grant, Watermark, Chris Tomlin, David
Crowder Band, Matt Redman, Tonéx and Skillet have been confirmed to perform
at the 36th Annual GMA Music Awards at the Grand Ole Opry House starting at
6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 13.
"This year's GMA Music Awards will be a reflection of the impact that many
younger, newer artists are having in gospel music. The diversity and
freshness of this group of performers will make for a unique and exciting
show," said Styll, who added that every performer is also a Dove Award
nominee and will perform the music for which they were nominated.
Also announced recently were presenters for the GMA Music Awards including
MercyMe, Michael W. Smith, Joy Williams, Jeremy Camp, tobyMac, Matthew West,
Building 429, Nicole C. Mullen, Day of Fire and Phillips, Craig & Dean.
Radio personalities Delilah and Rick & Bubba, "The World's Strongest Man"
Shane Hamman and NASCAR Driver Bobby Labonte will also present at the GMA
Music Awards. Denver & The Mile High Orchestra will be the awards show
house band.
Tickets are still available for the Doves at www.gmamusicawards.com
or by telephoning 615-242-0303, ext. 238.
(from Spinhouse PR)
Acclaimed folk-pop artist Bebo Norman tops the charts
again, securing back-to-back radio hits with his compelling anthem “Nothing Without You” reaching
the No. 1 spot on Radio & Records Inspirational chart this week. This song is the follow up to
Norman’s No.1 success “Disappear,” both appearing on his latest album, Try.
Critics also champion Norman’s current hit song, claiming, ‘“Nothing Without You” resonates with
such beautiful delicacy and simplicity that the listener can’t help becoming mesmerized.” - CCM Magazine
In addition to his impressive radio success, Norman continues to pack in audiences on the road,
selling out venues for his national tour this spring, tri-headlining with Fernando Ortega and
Sara Groves. “The Ortega, Norman, Groves Tour” hits 25-plus cities and launches April 21 in
Chattanooga, Tenn., playing major markets including Baltimore, Washington, Pittsburgh, Nashville,
Minneapolis/St. Paul, Cleveland, Albuquerque, Ft. Worth, Colorado Springs and more.
For the most updated tour dates, go to www.ongtour.com. For more information on Bebo Norman,
please visit www.bebonorman.com.
(from Provident Label Group)
The Supertones are out on the road with Roper right now
for the first leg of their farewell tour. "Just a quick note to tell you all that we are starting
to book the last part of the farewell tour for this fall," the band announced on their site last week.
"The dates should start coming in soon. We will be begining around the last week of August and
then ending in Orange County on October the 8th. This is when we hope to play our last show but
it is subject to change. Mark that on your calendars now! More info for the final show and tour
coming soon. over and out..." We'll keep you posted as more details are released!
(from Supertones.com)
Finally, Plumb's next project, following the birth of her new baby boy Solomon Fury Lee on March 22nd,
has been given a release date! Tiffany announced on her official website last week, "The album was mastered and totally complete on Friday March 18 and
Solomon was born the following Tuesday. Not bad timing eh? As of right now the slated release
date is August 2, 2005." For more details on the birth, head on over to Plumbinfo.com!
(from Plumbinfo.com)
Room To Breathe, the fourth studio release from pop trio ZOEgirl,
has climbed to #1 on Billboard magazine's Heatseekers chart in its second week of release.
Indeed, Room To Breathe has quickly become ZOEgirl's highest charting project to date
(#1 Heatseekers, #5 Christian Albums, #108 Billboard Top 200) and features the new radio hit, "About You."
Media reviews are equally as strong with JesusFreakHideout.com calling Room To Breathe
"as relevant and bold as ever" while ChristianMusicToday.com sites the "knockout, original numbers."
ChristianMusicLighthouse.com says, "Don't miss this powerful, beautiful CD from one of the best pop groups in music."
ZOEgirl begins a national tour in support of Room To Breathe on March 31 with
co-headlining act Jump5. For a complete list of concert dates, check out: ZOEgirlonline.com.
(from Sparrow Records)
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