Just in time for the holiday season Cory M. Coons releases his rendition of a classic Christmas am; I Saw Mommy Kissin’ Santa Claus. This upbeat Country rocker is fun, energetic, and vibrant, perfect to get us in the mood for holiday cheer.

Featuring his daughter Charleigh Lynn Coons, the finale of this track steps back the tempo and offers a child’s perspective as she sings the main theme of the track. Adding the child singing the main verse at the end just works so well as the music from the rapidly strummed acoustic guitar reaches a tension level that seems to not be able to be released.

As Cory M. Coons abruptly drops out allowing the young girl to sing the song feels like it has reached a very satisfying conclusion, along with a very pleasant feeling to carry on afterwards. Coons’ vocals on this track are very clear as each phrase and stanza are shaped well, his voice almost forcing a smile on the listeners faces as some invisible force brings happiness to all that listen to this track.

As he poses the question of what would Daddy say if he walked in on them, even though we know Dad is in the suit, we get a hint of taboo and naughtiness in the undertones of his voice. This is clever as it really adds to the entertainment of this classic track.

I Saw Mommy Kissin’ Santa Claus just gets us in the mood for Christmas; the presents, the tree, and the magic of Santa are all encapsulated within this track. This version of a traditional pop hit would serve well on any Adult Contemporary, Country, Pop, and Soft Rock commercial radio first this holiday season, and one we can revisit every year hereafter. The production on this track makes it perfect for radio, as the vocals in contrast with the guitar are well separated allowing all the overtones of both lyric and string to be heard crisp and clear, all while being blended perfectly to give a fullness to the overall sound. A staple of pop holiday music I Saw Mommy Kissin’ Santa Claus is a favorite among many, and this version is right up there as one
the best versions I have ever heard. Cory M. Coons brings fun, warmth, and happiness to the approaching holiday season. A very enjoyable track, and not the last time I will listen to it this season.

Reviewed by: Lee Callaghan
Evolution Music Press

The Experience, an annual gospel concert platformed by the House On the Rock is returning to the Tafawa Balewa Square after two years of a virtual and a hybrid version respectively due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s edition themed, Jesus: The Exceptional One, will be holding onsite at the TBS on the 2nd of December, 2022 commencing at 7pm.

One of the most remarkable things about this much-awaited event is its ability to bring together a cross section of people through music in absolute surrender to their Maker giving no thought to age, gender, race, status or religious inclination. Nothing beats the sound of drums, the feel of worship, the excitement of the crowd, the heartfelt expression of love and adoration to the God who inhabits the praises of His people.

The Experience is arguably one of the most anticipated, most watched and most streamed gospel concert in the world. It’s strictly virtual edition in 2020 tagged: Global Edition was viewed over 5million times on YouTube and Facebook.

The 17th edition of The Experience boasts an array of award-winning frontline indigenous and international artistes such as, Travis Greene, Sinach, Donnie McClurkin, Nathaniel Bassey, Chandler Moore, Dunsin Oyekan, Phil Thompson, Muyiwa Olarewaju, Mr. M & Revelation, Tim Hughes, Tope Alabi, Mercy Chinwo, Onos Ariyo, Preye odede, Eno Micheals, Eben and the Lagos Metropolitan Gospel Choir of the House On The Rock and many others.

According to the organizers, as with previous years, this free concert will be a platform hosted with utmost security, professionalism, hospitality, and most importantly with a focus to continue to provide a platform where attendees can pray for our great nation and worship God freely.

The Convener and Metropolitan of all House On The Rock, Paul Adefarasin, has reiterated that this is The Experience that you don’t want to miss as it promises to be a night of pulsating praise, passionate worship, fervent prayers and an outpouring of the presence of God like never seen before. It is noteworthy to state that whilst attendance at The Experience2022 is free, it is important that attendees arrive promptly so that they can fully enjoy what promises to be an enthralling evening of live music comparable to the best concerts on the globe. 

The House On The Rock is a metropolitan church headquartered in Lagos with branches across Nigeria and the continents with over tens of thousands in membership and on a mission to reach a hurting and dying generation with Jesus’s message of hope and compassion. 

Let the countdown to unfettered praise continue with only a few days to The Experience.

Hosted by Wayne Brady, the 2022 American Music Awards aired live from the Microsoft Theater at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles on Sunday, Nov. 20, at 8:00 p.m. EST/PST on ABC.

The AMAs represent the year’s top achievements in music determined by the fans, for the fans. Nominees are based on key fan interactions – as reflected on the Billboard charts – including streaming, album and song sales, radio airplay, and tour grosses. See a relevant winner’s list before.

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL ARTIST
Anne Wilson
for KING & COUNTRY — WINNER
Katy Nichole
Matthew West
Phil Wickham

FAVORITE GOSPEL ARTIST
CeCe Winans
DOE
E. Dewey Smith
Maverick City Music
Tamela Mann — WINNER

Coming on the back of his well-received Alive Forever single from last year, UK worship leader, songwriter, music producer, and musical director Tunji Dairo a.k.a TJ DAIRO is back in 2022 with his first-ever Christmas single, just in time to celebrate the festive season this year. 

Titled ‘LIGHT OF THE WORLD’, the contemporary gospel/funk music offering will be immediately familiar to lovers of gospel music because it embodies the energetic and authentic sound that is associated with the genre.

‘Light Of The World’ sees Tj Dairo start with an account of the birth of Jesus which was foretold and marked by divine visitations and the presence of celestial bodies in the skies. The energetic rhythms in the music, vocal, horn, and string arrangements set the stage for the core message of the season which is ” Rejoice, the savior is born -Jesus, the light of the World” 

Speaking about the inspiration behind the new single, Tj Dairo says, “As the Christmas season approaches, it is fair to say that the entire world is still in a state of confusion. Nations and governments are literally punching in the dark trying to solve a plethora of problems that will undoubtedly require some divine intervention. This song is a reminder that God has already provided a solution by sending his son.  Jesus said “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” John 8:12. 
The song is energetic, engaging, and full of life whilst keeping in step with its core message which is a clarion call to us to share our faith and also be light in a dark world”

Written, arranged, and produced by Tj Dairo, who is also on keyboards and music programming, Davina Dairo and Anita Dairo rapping, and finally Tj Dairo and Morayo Orekoya on vocals.

Born into one of the most revered musical dynasties in Nigeria, the legendary Dairo family, music has always played an important role in Tj Dairo’s life. He draws his influences from Christian Greats like Panam Percy Paul, CeCe Winans, Don Moen, Fred Hammond, Graham Kendrick, Israel Houghton, Ron Kenoly, and Michael W Smith, with his songs creating musical and lyrical layers to convey his message in a way that doesn’t alienate listeners but lifts their spirits and provides them with a sense of hope that all will be well in the end.

His unique gift and creativity have seen Tj Dairo work and perform with the likes of Blue, II Divo, Simon Webb, Steve Mac, Michelle Williams, Graham Kendrick, Tim Hughes, Samuel Ljungblahd, Noel Robinson, Paul Dairo and Muyiwa Olarewaju among others, while his passionate commitment to Christian music has paved the way for him to serve as music director and consultant for churches across the UK and Europe. He is also an associate pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church (UK) and served as music director for the Festival Of Life in London, one of the biggest Christian festivals in the UK and Europe for 10 years. Recently, he worked with Tim Hughes and appeared on the ‘UK Blessing’ recording which was recorded in 2020. Tj serves on the planning team for the UK Songwriter’s consultation led by Graham Kendrick and Philippa Hannah.

‘Light Of The World’ is out on November 18th, 2022 on all online digital music platforms.

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Benjamin William Hastings shares the official acoustic video for “Eden (Isn’t It Just Like You?),” which can be viewed below. The track is from Hastings’ self-titled debut solo album. Listen HERE.

This artistic 25-track journey offers honest self-expression and dynamic songwriting, threaded with Hastings’ uncanny ability to communicate vulnerable, authentic, personal truths, all ready to resonate with the global audience.

“It’s 25 songs each showing a different side of myself,” Hastings adds. “There are songs about worship, faith, doubt, imposter syndrome, being a dad/husband, and ultimately a human. I hope it makes you feel a little less alone. We’re gonna lie in the dirt but we’ll stare at the stars. Hold onto your hats!”

Daywind Record’s Karen Peck & New River continue to make a name for themselves in Gospel Music with the GRAMMY nomination of their full-length studio album, 2:22.  

The album, written out of hope, sorrow, grief, joy, and faith, was produced by the incomparable Wayne Haun and was released on Daywind Records on February 22nd, 2022.  The now six-time GRAMMY-nominated, seven-time GMA Dove Award-winning group powerfully declares that the “Answer Is Jesus” through all of life’s joys and sorrows in this ground-breaking album.

Inspired by the hope found in Jesus through life’s darkest tragedies, 2:22 sends a strong message of redemption and peace.

The members of KPNR as well as their loved ones, experienced trials and tribulations prior to and during the making of 2:22. With some of these challenges including cancer, covid, miscarriage, and addiction, 2:22 is a raw and honest collection of songs that resonates with all listeners. 

Click here to listen to the GRAMMY nominated album, 2:22.

Karen Peck commented on the nomination of 2:22 saying, “We are extremely grateful and honored to have this GRAMMY nomination. The songs on 2:22 are a reflection of where we have been spiritually over the past couple of years. We pray the GRAMMY platform will open new opportunities for people to hear the message of hope and encouragement through Jesus Christ.”

Impacting Gospel music through ministry for over 30 years, Karen Peck & New River once again, spreads the word that Jesus is the answer through powerful music and praise.

Track Listing:

Spirit of Heaven (3:40)

Answer Is Jesus (3:43)

The Keepers (3:52)

Future Glory (3:14)

Bless His Holy Name (3:53)

If God Wrote A Song (3:24)

Dance (2:56)

Lead Me Through (3:51)

Valley Too Long (2:3)

Sheaves (4:00)

The Lord’s Prayer (0:34)

GRAMMY ® award winner, and current double nominee for the upcoming 65th Annual GRAMMY® Awards on February 5, 2023, Chris Tomlin is releasing a deluxe version of his Emmanuel: Christmas Songs of Worship Deluxe today with two additional songs, “Gloria” penned by Tomlin, Tyler Hubbard, Dave Barnes, and Corey Crowder and “Emmanuel God With Us” featuring Anne Wilson, which was an Amazon original last year.

“Christmas is my favorite time of the year… I love the traditions, Christmas lights, and most of all I love the music,” shared Chris. “I have always found it interesting that this is the only holiday to have its own genre of music… and I think it is because Christmas started with a song, with the announcement of Jesus’ birth. I am so excited to be releasing “Emmanuel: Christmas Songs Of Worship Deluxe” today.”

Tomlin’s catalog of full-length Christmas albums include: 2021’s Emmanuel: Christmas Songs of Worship, 2015’s highly regarded Adore: Christmas Songs of Worship, and his gold-certified Glory In The Highest: Christmas Songs of Worship from 2009.

Emmanuel: Christmas Songs of Worship Deluxe

1. Emmanuel God With Us
2. Christmas Day (with We The Kingdom)
3. All The World Awaits (Hosanna)
4. Hallelujah (with Blessing Offor)
5. I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day
6. His Name Is Wonderful
7. O Come, O Come Emmanuel
8. Hope Of Israel
9. O Holy Night (with CeCe Winans)
10. Crown Him (Christmas) (with Matt Redman)
11. O Little Town Of Bethlehem
12. Crown Him (Reprise) (with Matt Redman)
13. Gloria
14. Emmanuel God With Us (with Anne Wilson)

Earlier this week Chris was nominated for two GRAMMY® awards,  Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song for “Holy Forever” from his latest record ALWAYS and Best Contemporary Christian Music Album for ALWAYS. The multi-platinum, multi-award-winning and previous GRAMMY® award winner Tomlin received the news while on the road for the final leg of the ‘Top 10 Worldwide Tour’ (Pollstar), the “Tomlin UNITED Tour.”  In December he is partnering for a one-of-a-kind co-headline tour with MercyMe from December 1-13 on the “Chris Tomlin X MercyMe” Go to christomlin.com for all the dates.

In 2023, Chris will create an intimate concert setting as he travels across the U.S. on “The Stories Of Worship Tour.” In the unique concert experience Chris will lead the attendees in an impactful evening of worship while sharing stories about some of the most influential songs around the world. Tickets for the tour are on sale now at christomlin.com.

GRAMMY Award-winning artist and songwriter Brandon Lake announces the Spring 2023 leg of his ‘Miracle Nights Tour’ with tickets on sale today at 10 AM local time. This announcement follows the wildly successful fall tour, which featured 13 cities that sold out in advance and was Lake’s first-ever headlining tour. Click here to purchase tickets for the 12-city-tour.

“Brandon Lake cares deeply about people encountering Jesus and it’s been powerful to experience God moving in these nights,” shares Jared Gibo, President of Transparent Productions. “We’ve never seen an artist have this level of success on their first headline tour and it’s remarkable to see the fruit of his ministry.”

Joining the ‘Miracle Nights Spring Tour’ will be special guest Benjamin William Hastings, Captiol Christian Music Group singer/songwriter who is known for co-writing and the voice on Hillsong UNITED’s “So Will I (100 Billon X).” He just released his self-titled debut project and fans will be some of the first to experience his new music on tour. This tour will once again be presented by Transparent Productions, who bring first-class Christian concerts, tours, and festivals across the country.

Lake’s tour nights feature many of his popular songs, including “Graves Into Gardens,” “Too Good To Not Believe,” and “Gratitude,” which was co-written by Hastings, along with songs from his latest full-length album, HELP!. His newest album is a timely collection of songs depicting his heart cry in the battle against depression, anxiety, loneliness, and other mental health struggles.

Spring 2023 Tour dates: 
3.17.23 | Las Vegas (Henderson), NV
3.18.23 | Phoenix, AZ
3.19.23 | Los Angeles (Inglewood), CO
3.24.23 | Denver (Highlands Ranch), CO
3.25.23 | Kansas City, MO
3.26.23 | St. Louis (Chesterfield), MO
*4.14.23 | Atlanta, GA
*4.15.23 | Charlotte, NC
4.16.23 | Nashville, TN
4.21.23 | Leesburg, VA
4.22.23 | Burlington, NJ
4.23.23 | Detroit (Plymouth), MI
(*Benjamin William Hastings not appearing)

Premier Productions and Elevation Church announce Elevation Nights Spring 2023 Tour, featuring Elevation Worship and Steven Furtick. The life-changing night of worship will sweep across eight cities this Spring as this passionate group of award-winning worship leaders brings their message of hope and life to audiences across the country.

The tour follows the success of three previous Elevation Nights tours. The Elevation Nights 2022 tours saw sold-out arenas of ten thousand per night and ushered in life-changing ministry experiences.

“We’ve been experiencing Elevation Nights all across the country and they’ve quickly become some of my favorite times of ministry,” said Chris Brown. “We’re excited to bring this tour to cities that we haven’t been to yet. We can’t wait to see how God moves each night.”

Audiences can sign up for the exclusive pre-sale now at elevationnights.com. Tickets go on sale to the public at 10am local time on November 18th.

“Coming off of a wildly successful and impactful run in the Fall, I’m so excited that we get to launch another round of Elevation Nights,” said  Jonathan Roberts, VP Global Touring. “It’s equally exciting to visit each of these cities for the first time with this tour.”

The Elevation Nights tour is a full worship experience as Steven Furtick preaches and Elevation Worship leads some of their hit songs including “Graves Into Gardens,” “RATTLE!,” “Do It Again,” “The Blessing” and others. The eight-city tour will kick-off on Tuesday, April 18th in Austin, TX with stops in Oklahoma City, OK, Minneapolis, MN, Denver, CO and St. Louis, MO before the final show on Thursday, April 27 in Toronto, ONT. For a full list of dates and cities, see below.

Today Dream Label Group announces their new curated playlist of Thanksgiving songs this year.  Featuring Meredith Mauldin & UPPERROOM, Canyon Hills Worship, Joel Vaughn, Life.Church Worship, Futures, Branan Murphy and more.

“We are now back in the season of Thanksgiving and while we should always be thankful to God’s blessings we celebrate this wonderful holiday with a prayer of gratitude.  We here at DREAM Label Group thought this year we’d put together some of our favorite songs that lyrically showcase what our hearts our saying.  We hope you enjoy as you take in the season of Thanksgiving.” – Lance Brown, DREAM Label Group

The Thanksgiving Songs Playlist is available now.