Marking their debut as the flagship artist on Daywind Music Group’s newly relaunched Thoroughbred Records, bestselling bluegrass quartet Chosen Road will bow their first full-length holiday set, Appalachian Christmas, October 28. Produced by the band’s Jonathan Buckner, Zachary Alvis and Tyler Robertson, the 13-track recording is highlighted by guest turns from some of the top names in Christian and Gospel music.

Album opener “Noel” showcases the beloved voice of Southern Gospel mainstay Guy Penrod. Penned by Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman and Ed Cash, the popular contemporary worship anthem is reimagined in anticipatory reverence, setting the stage for a collection of classic carols and Christmas standards—all hallmarked by Chosen Road’s signature bluegrass sound.

In addition, country music icon Jimmy Fortune joins the band for The Statler Brothers’ classic “Who Do You Think”; GRAMMY®-nominated trio Point of Grace is featured on a new arrangement of Andrew Peterson’s tenderly emotive “Labor of Love”; and multi Dove Award-winner Allan Hall of Selah shares lead vocals on Chosen Road’s joyful rendition of “Light of the Stable.”

The project also features the sacred carols “Joy to the World,” “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Away In A Manger,” alongside a down-home instrumental arrangement of “Sleigh Ride,” and bluegrass favorites “Beautiful Star of Bethlehem” and Ralph Stanley’s “Christmas Is Near,” among other selections.

“It was so much fun to interpret these Christmas songs through the lens of bluegrass and Appalachian styles of music, and all the collaborations on the album represent very special moments with some of our musical heroes,” says Chosen Road founding member Jonathan Buckner. “We hope listeners will feel the same joy, peace and Hope that we know. There’s turmoil in the world all around us, and music is a universal language that speaks to everyone. Appalachian Christmas gives us an avenue to remind people of the Hope and joy found in the love of Jesus Christ—the greatest gift that’s ever been given.”

“We are thrilled to relaunch our Thoroughbred label with this fantastic, star-studded Christmas album by Chosen Road, our first signee to the label,” shares Ed Leonard, president, Daywind Music Group. “Their commitment to excellence in sound, touring, and ministry makes them the bellwether group for the bluegrass Gospel genre, and this album will be on the ‘must-have’ list for all lovers of Christmas music for years to come.”

Gospel recording artist Lamont Sanders was the top winner at The 7th Annual Avidity Awards, in Memphis, Tennessee, on October 14, 2022, at the Halloran Centre for Performing Arts and Education.

Hosted by social media influencers Aldren McClullar of “The Aldren Brand” and Marquis Jelks of “Church Stuff,” Sanders took home three awards for Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, and Song of the Year for “He Kept Me”.

Lamont Sanders recently charted his first Billboard Gospel Airplay No. 1 song with “He Kept Me” earlier this year. Sanders performed “He Kept Me” at this year’s Avidity Awards and also on BET’s 2022 Stellar Awards show, which aired on Aug. 7th.

The New Jersey-based crooner recently released new music with a new digital track “I’m Blessed.” The song, which is produced by Darkchild Gospel’s Fred Jerkins III is out now on all music retail outlets. Stream or download here: https://sc.lnk.to/8fVkJU

ABOUT LAMONT SANDERS:

Lamont Sanders initially launched into the music industry as an R&B artist when he landed a record deal with Interscope Records. He eventually answered the call of God and ministry and returned to his gospel roots by recording and releasing music full-time. The singer-songwriter is also CEO of Bear Tag Entertainment and is in a partnership deal with Darkchild Gospel, an Atlanta-based record label run by GRAMMY Award-winning songwriter and producer Fred Jerkins who in his storied career has written and/or produced for Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, and Brandy to name a few.

CONNECT WITH LAMONT SANDERS ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Instagram || Facebook || Twitter || Website

Powerhouse vocalist and gospel recording artist Kim Person takes home an Avidity Award for Female Artist of the Year this past weekend. The 7th Annual ceremony took place at the Halloran Centre for Performing Arts and Education in Memphis, TN.

The North Carolina native also performed her Billboard charting single “Wonderful” at the Avidity Awards and this year’s Stellar Awards Pre-Show in Atlanta. Watch her Stellar Award pre-show performance of “Wonderful” here.

On Saturday, October 8, Kim Person was honored by TCP Magazine’s Peggy Tatum as a “Hometown Hero.” Person was honored for her unselfish service to her fans, supporters, the kingdom, and the Raleigh/Durham communities which have brightened the lives of so many and propelled the community forward. She also received her Billboard Gospel Indicator #1 plaque during the October 8th event, which she held for 2 consecutive weeks earlier this year. Her radio promoter Patrick Noble Allen presented this award. During this honor Pastor, Shirley Caesar paid a tribute to congratulate Person on all her recent success.

Kim Person was nominated earlier this year for three 2022 Stellar Award nominations for Albertina Walker Female Vocalist of the Year, Traditional Female Vocalist of the Year, and Traditional Album of the Year (for Journey 2.0). Watch the “Wonderful” music video here: https://youtu.be/1Wrn6kwhw6M.

Download or stream The Journey 2.0 [EP] here: Apple Music | Amazon Music | Spotify

ABOUT KIM PERSON:
A native of Raleigh, North Carolina, JOURNEY 2.0 is the follow-up to her 2019 album release THE JOURNEY. The album peaked at #2 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart and in the Top 25 on Billboard’s Heatseekers chart. The project earned Kim Person her first two Stellar Award nominations in 2020 for New Artist of the Year and Contemporary Female Vocalist of the Year.

Sensational Nigerian urban Gospel minister Ada Ehi has crossed the 100 million views milestone on Youtube with the video for the song “Only You Jesus”.

Ada Ehi becomes the second gospel artist in Africa after Sinach to attain this colossal milestone achievement. Her youtube channel has a total of well over 360,000 Million views and 1.46 Million subscribers.

She was recently was awarded the Achievers award in the UK and also won CLIMA Africa award 2022 as the best collaboration song for “Congratulations” featuring Buchi.

“Only You Jesus,” the video by Ada Ehi was released in the year 2016. The song is also included in the 2017 album titled “Future Now”. It was produced by Kelly Lyon (Spiritual Beatz), while the video was shot by Carel Films.

Watch The Video Below:

Congratulations to Ada Ehi on the 100 million views milestone!

The 7X GRAMMY® winner and Christian music titan TobyMac hit the road for The Theatre Tour with special guest Terrian to spread “the goodness” from his new album Life After Death, which was just released August 19th. 

Fans on the tour’s last stop at the beautiful Carpenter Theater in downtown Richmond, Virginia experienced eight songs from the new album along with some old favorites. They were thrilled. Emotions were high as Toby shared some of the struggles from the last three years since the death of his firstborn son, and voices from the compassionate crowd yelled, “We love you, Toby!”. 

The theme from the night in both Terrian’s and TobyMac’s sets seemed to be that God will always be faithful, and it was amazing to see smiles all around. Check out the joy, emotion, and the beautiful production captured in the images below by Annette Holloway.

Curb | Word Entertainment’s Sidewalk Prophets co-founders Dave Frey and Ben McDonald are proud to announce their new children’s book, The Luckiest Star, penned alongside Elizabeth Cardella Hayes. Illustrated by David Leonard, who illustrated the band’s album cover for Merry Christmas To You (Great Big Family Edition), with a forward by Paul William Young, New York Times bestselling author of The Shack, the book tells a new Christmas story families will be excited to hear for years to come. Pre-order The Luckiest Star HERE.

“The Luckiest Star was such a dream to create,” shares Frey. “Since we wrote our song ‘Hey Moon,’ I had always hoped to write an accompanying book that I could someday read to my child. Since I became a dad a couple years ago, it was finally time. I hope that it will bless your family this Christmas and all year long, as we all discover what it means to be known, loved, and made for an important purpose.”

The Luckiest Star, a true labor of love which took four years to create, edit, and execute, tells the story of Hemmy, the smallest, silliest little star in the galaxy. With his best friend, the moon, lighting his path, Hemmy sets out on a quest to find the place in the galaxy he truly belongs. A sudden encounter with the Maker at Christmastime helps Hemmy realize he was made to shine, and he soon learns his light was destined to illuminate the greatest gift the world has ever known.

McDonald adds, “This has been such a special project to collaborate on. Dave and I have been writing songs together for years, but it was really special to work creatively together in a different format. We’re so blessed to work with talented creatives like our co-author Elizabeth Cardella Hayes and our illustrator David Leonard. Every single person on the team pushed this story to new heights, and we can’t wait to share this special labor of love with the world.”

Last week, Sidewalk Prophets announced their 4^th annual “Great Big Family Christmas Tour,” bringing their Great Big Family together for a time of carols, fellowship, and celebration this holiday season. Fans can look forward to creating special memories with their families as well as fun surprises and giveaways throughout the show. Like past years, each show will be in support of a local individual or organization in need, with an offering collected after the show. To date, the “Great Big Family Christmas Tour” has raised over $150K for local individuals and organizations around the country, with a goal to raise over $1M dollars in the coming years. Fans can purchase tickets HERE now.

Pre-order The Luckiest Star HERE and reach out with any other inquiries at bookinquiries@sidewalkprophets.com. Pre-order Sidewalk Prophets’ Merry Christmas To You (Great Big Family Edition) on vinyl HERE.

“Great Big Family Christmas Tour” Dates

12/1 – Terre Haute, IN

12/2 – Columbus, OH

12/3 – Midland, MI

12/4 – Cleves, OH

12/5 – Wheatfield, IN

12/7 – Edwardsville, IL

12/8 – Edwardsville, IL

12/9 – Joplin, MO

12/10 – Wabash, IN

12/11 – Ashland, OH

12/15 – Jackson, MI

12/16 – Brunswick, OH

12/17 – Forest City, NC

12/18 – Lenoir City, TN

*Tour date information subject to change

“Believe Again,” a new single from Alicia & Whitney, sister singer/songwriters, authors and worship leaders, is set to release to radio today, going for adds to Christian AC-formatted radio outlets.

“Believe Again” follows the success of “Chasing Me Down” (non-remix version), which topped the charts at No. 1 for its CRC Weekly debut, claiming the No. 1 spot on the CRC Monthly Chart and sitting at No. 2 on the CRC Quarterly chart.

The duo released its sophomore album in 2018, “A Portrait of Worship,” yielding “New Thing,” which debuted at No. 1 on CRC Weekly and hit No. 4 on the CRC Monthly chart. In 2021, “All For Nothing,” also debuted at No. 1 on CRC Weekly, and held the No. 2 spot on CRC Monthly and the No. 3 spot on CRC Quarterly.

In addition to music, the sisters host a weekly podcast titled “Coming Up Higher with Alicia & Whitney,” where their goal is to encourage others to cultivate atmospheres for God to move in everyday life. Whitney also hosts a new podcast, “The Beauty of Becoming: the Single Ladies Podcast,” meant to encourage single ladies to walk out God’s purpose for their lives. Both podcasts are available on all podcast platforms.

The sisters, who grew up in a musical family, have been singing since they were young. The death of their father when they were young adults rekindled a passion for songwriting as they worked through their grief by writing songs. It was during this time that the young women felt God urging them to go back to the core of who He created them to be and to help others come to know Him and the purpose He has for each person. Their debut album, “Core,” is a collection of songs meant to help others reflect and heal from the inside out through the love of Jesus.

In recent years, Alicia & Whitney have toured throughout the United States, sharing their ministry of music and speaking. They also have traveled internationally to Honduras, Tanzania and Israel.

In addition to writing and performing music, Whitney is an author. Her debut book, “Beauty for My Ashes,” was written to help people cope with grief in a healthy way after losing a loved one. Her second book, “Occupy While Waiting,” is a singles guide to pursuing God, purpose and healthy relationships. Alicia also has authored a book titled “Reset, Recalibrate, Restore: My Journey from Broken to Breakthrough and the Lessons I Learned Along the Way.”

The 17th edition of The Experience, an all-night Gospel music concert will be held live at the Tafewa Balewa Square, Lagos this year. 

This was disclosed through its official social media handle. It wrote: “Nothing beats the sound of the drums, the feel of the worship, the excitement of the crowd, the shout, the dance, and the blessed moments of heartfelt expressions of love and adoration to the God who inhabits the praises of His people.

The Experience is back in TBS and God is set to do the impossible. How excited are you? Show us with an emoji”

Recall that The Experience was unable to hold its concert physically in 2020 and 2021 but virtually due to restrictions brought about by the coronavirus pandemic. However, there’s a great turnaround and everyone is excited about this. 

Convened by Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Senior Pastor of House On The Rock, Lagos, Nigeria, the inception of this event started on 1st December 2006 with an attendance of about 40,000 people and has since grown exponentially to hundreds of thousands of worshippers, making it arguably the largest Gospel concert in the world.

It is highly anticipated by Christians and non-Christians alike, and it averages an annual attendance of over 500,000 people at the Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos, Nigeria, with masses more watching online from all over the globe, creating a digital footprint in all 7 continents of the world.

The concert features exceptional Gospel music from some of the most celebrated, international, and indigenous recording artists of our time. Some of the world-renowned, award-winning, international, and Nigerian gospel artists who have graced The Experience stage including Chevelle Franklyn, Don Moen, Donnie McClurkin, Gabriel Eziashi, Hezekiah Walker, Israel Houghton, Micah Stampley, Nathaniel Bassey, Sonnie Badu, Todd Dulaney, Travis Greene, Tye Tribbett, William McDowell, Yolanda Adams, Chioma Jesus, Chee, Eben Eno Michael, Frank Edwards, Mercy Chinwo, Sinach, Tope Alabi and many more. 

Rising star Anne Wilson celebrates exciting news this week, with the announcement of her first-ever American Music Award nomination for Favorite Inspirational Artist. The 2022 American Music Awards will air live from Microsoft Theater at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles on Sunday, Nov. 20, at 8pm ET/5pm PT on ABC.

The nomination follows an astounding six Dove Award nominations for Wilson, including Song of the Year, New Artist of the Year, Songwriter of the Year- Artist, Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year, Bluegrass/Country/Roots Recorded Song of the Year and Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year. Wilson will take her talents to the stage with a performance at the 53rd annual GMA Dove Awards, airing worldwide on TBN, Friday, Oct. 21, 2022 at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. ET.

“So incredibly blown away that I’m nominated for Favorite Inspirational Artist. God is doing so much through ‘My Jesus’ and I’m just so thankful,” shares Wilson. “I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the AMAs and everything else HE is doing!”

Wilson’s new single “Hey Girl,” which Billboard notes “further heightens her country ties” is an uplifting, energetic anthem that connects with fans. Since its release, “Hey Girl” hit No. 1 on the TikTok Country playlist with 8.2M views on TikTok. The hashtag, #HeyGirl, has surpassed 190M views and stemming from this, Wilson has launched Hey Girl Nation as a community for her fans to connect, encourage self-confidence and remind members of their self-worth. “Hey Girl” is a follow up hit to Wilson’s breakout debut single, “My Jesus,” which was named ASCAP Song of the Year and made history as the longest No.1 single on Billboard’s Christian Airplay chart last year.

Expanding upon her explosive year, Wilson is set to release her first book My Jesus: From Heartache to Hope from Thomas Nelson on Oct. 25. Drawing from her personal experiences of tragedy and loss, Wilson shares her detailed path to healing in this book that she hopes will help those going through similar experiences.

Chart-topping Christian rock radio vocalist Matt Sassano is proudly partnering with nonprofit organization TheHopeLine to launch the “My Dear God Letters” initiative.

The initiative aligns with the message of his In Defiance EP, which was released in August via Rockfest Records. Sassano’s music is a call to action to the listener to stand in defiance to whatever makes them feel alone, depressed or powerless. The initiative is putting words into action and providing a safe environment with professional support from TheHopeLine to share stories and seek support from a welcoming community.

The landing page also gives his fans an opportunity to learn more about his backstory, which is riddled with mental health struggles, abuse, and disabilities. Together, Sassano hopes to get honest with his fanbase and come together stronger than ever before.

About the initiative:

“We are hoping for a variety of submissions from people who just are tired of  ‘faking it’ and want a place to be real with how they feel and what they are dealing with. I sincerely believe the first step to mental health healing is being transparent about the ugly things nobody wants to confront. My Dear God letter gives you that chance.” – Matt Sassano

About TheHopeLine:

“As a person who has suffered mental health issues in the past, I resonate with TheHopeLine’s mission. I was once a kid locked away in a psych ward with not many people who even cared to visit me. It was dark. But later I saw things turn around and I was a mental health aide in a psych facility. I’m living proof that you CAN turn things around with both prayer, support and help. I believe what TheHopeLine does and am passionate about helping people find the same healing I did.” – Matt Sassano

Though Matt Sassano launched his solo career in 2016, his roots in rock music run deep with his bands Transparent and Transparent Soul. His six years with these rock ensembles prepared him for sharing his debut solo LP Transcend in 2019, driven by energetic synths and raw storytelling. His passion for Christianity, songwriting and music creation have helped him navigate life with Cerebral Palsy and the rare learning disability Dyscalculia. Not only has he connected with fellow underdogs everywhere through his craft, but Matt’s work was also featured on the 2012 NASCAR The Game: Inside Line. As Matt ventures into a new chapter of his musical career with the awe-inspiring and riff-laden In Defiance, it’s clear his heavy rock journey is far from over.