Gospel Music Executive Stephania Andry-Wilkinson has partnered with Integrity Music to release a new music initiative titled ‘Be Amplified’. At a time where there’s much division and polarization, we want to bring a reason and a voice of hope in a culture that’s constantly being redefined. As one generation champions the next, sharing their platform and influence through mentorship, investment, and empowerment.

Jonathan Brown, President of integrity Music says, “Since the first time I met Steph, I’ve always had a desire to partner and work with her. Her intuition, connections, and energy are a magnetic force not just in the industry, but in the lives of creatives that she champions. ‘Be Amplified’ brings all of Steph’ s history and future desires to see emerging voices flourish while honoring those who have paved the way in Gospel music. My hope is this partnership will bring dignity and opportunity to discover emerging voices that will shape the future of the songbook for the church.”

“Integrity Music is a great partner for this initiative because their heart is that of those willing to serve others. The vision of the Company lends itself perfectly to this effort as ‘Be Amplified’ creates an awareness of those who continually serve others and actively participate in the greater goal of creating songs, resources for the church, and music that impacts beyond our culture”, says Andry-Wilkinson. Stephania is no stranger to Integrity Music as she started her career at the label in 1999 and helped pioneer some of today’s most accredited singers and songwriters in Christian and Gospel music. This full circle moment comes at a time where music culture and faith need new voices more than ever as it is constantly being redefined.

“The first project highlights some of the best voices in Gospel Music,” says the 22-year music veteran. ‘Be Amplified’ is a lifestyle brand that identifies champions in our genre. The initial voice from the release is New York’s prize jewel Anaysha Figueroa Cooper with a passionate and heartfelt ballad titled ‘Not Forgotten’. The single is available Friday, April 15, 2022 on all digital platforms.Those featured in this release are introduced by some of the most respected names in music. The personal contribution to support each of them serves as a true sentiment of their mutual respect and friendship.

Maverick City Music’s Chandler Moore joins Country Faith Radio with Hillary Scott. Fresh off his Grammy win and performance, Moore recounts his upbringing as a pastor’s son and how the heartbreak of losing his possessions in a house fire became the catalyst for creative and spiritual revelations. Hillary also shares a mini-playlist of some of her favorite Christian songs perfect for Easter. Tune in and listen to the episode in-full this Sunday (April 17) at 8am PT / 10am CT / 11am ET or anytime on-demand at apple.co/_CountryFaith.

Chandler Moore on Music Finding Its Way to Him
I think music found its way to me and [I] really couldn’t escape it. I mean I played basketball. I thought I was going to go to college and play basketball and do all that stuff. I didn’t really start chasing music till end of middle school, eighth, ninth grade. It was all about sports before that. I would play in church, sing, but I wasn’t really passionate about it. And ninth grade hit and I would spend hours in my garage that I made like a janky studio, home studio, writing songs, producing tracks, bringing some of my friends over to sing songs, I could barely sing at the time. [It’s] been a really cool journey and something that I ran into but the Lord has obviously ordained and planned for.

Chandler Moore on Writing Authentic Songs at Maverick City Music Writing Camps
At the end of the day, a lot of times we get together and write and we end up just talking for an hour and a half and there’s no songs that come out of it. But for us, that is more beautiful than trying to conjure up a song. But a lot of the songs come out of pure relationships. Come out of sitting at a table, eating together, learning about each other, learning about our backgrounds, learning about families and environments and cultures that we come from. And I feel like that’s why the songs that people love feel so authentic, because we’re not just writing with people for business sake, or for career moves, or just to put money in our pockets. These are songs that come out of real relationship and places of real conversation and questions to each other.

Chandler Moore on Losing Everything in an Apartment Fire 4 Days Before Recording “Jireh”
Four days before I recorded “Jireh,” my apartment caught on fire. I lost everything. It was the hand of God, because I was supposed to be in my apartment. But me and my wife, we decided to leave a day early to try to catch a church service in Dallas, Texas, where I live now, and I was living in Georgia at the time. And four days before we recorded “Jireh,” before we recorded “Shall Not Want,” “Wait On You,” all those songs that are talking about not wanting for anything and the Lord being enough and waiting on the Lord to come through and be waiting for His perfect timing… I lost everything. I mean, I showed up to Elevation to record “Jireh” with no clothing, the suitcase that I had, and no identification. Everything. It was crazy.  So “Firm Foundation” is a real life, “Jireh” is a real life, testimony.  “Wait On You,” “Shall Not Want,” all those songs that we do are just, it’s just real life testimonies out here in these streets.

TV One announced today that filming for its Marvin Sapp biopic is underway. Chaz Lamar Shepherd (“Marvel’s Luke Cage” “The Game”) will take on the lead role as Marvin Sapp. Joining Shepherd is Ambre Anderson (“Power Book II” “Manifest Evil”) who is cast as Sapp’s wife, MaLinda Prince Sapp. The film is scheduled for an August 21 release on TV One.

“It is an honor to tell Marvin Sapp’s life story,” said TV One’s Executive Producer, Jason Ryan. “His vast contributions to gospel and American music are undeniable. We know this film will resonate with our viewers.”

The Marvin Sapp biopic chronicles the prominent gospel music artist and preacher’s Michigan upbringing, battle against teenage alcohol abuse, love for MaLinda Prince, rise in the music industry and growth in his faith. Sapp came into prominence more than 30 years ago as a member of Commissioned and is widely known for his award-winning, chart-topping crossover hit “Never Would Have Made It.” Currently, he is an author, radio show host and senior pastor of The Chosen Vessel Cathedral in Fort Worth, Texas and pastor emeritus of Lighthouse Full Life Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan – the church he founded with his late wife.

The film is directed by Russ Parr and produced for TV One by Swirl Films, with Eric F. Tomosunas, James Seppelfrick and Keith Neal serving as Executive Producers. Additionally, Marvin Sapp and Phil Thornton are Executive Producers. For TV One, Jason Ryan is the Executive Producer in Charge of Production, Donyell Kennedy-McCullough is Senior Director of Talent & Casting and Susan Henry is Senior Director of Original Programming and Production.

For more information about TV One’s upcoming programming, including original movies, visit the network’s companion website at http://www.tvone.tv. TV One viewers can also join the conversation by connecting via social media on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

On Easter Sunday,  April 17, 2022, Breath of Life Television Ministries, in conjunction with the Interfaith Broadcasting Commission, will air an Easter special on ABC television stations across the United States. The theme for the special is “A Living Hope.”

The one-hour program will feature an Easter message from Pastor Debleaire Snell, who serves as speaker/director of Breath of Life Ministries and senior pastor of the Oakwood University Church in Huntsville, Alabama. The musical guests will be Grammy Award-winning recording artist Cece Winans, GMA Dove Award-winning group Selah, and violinist Patrick Bogui.

The Easter special will air on more than 80 percent of ABC affiliate stations across the nation, which allows the opportunity to present the gospel of Jesus on a wide-reaching platform.

“Our hope is that the truth of the resurrection, presented in word and song, would inspire people to look beyond the circumstances of the present, to our eternal hope founded on the certain return of Jesus Christ,” said Snell.

Visit https://breathoflife.tv/a-living-hope-confirmed-stations/ for local listings and air times.

Dream Records worship group Futures announce that their upcoming EP entitled Love Letters From An Empty Tomb will be releasing over the Easter weekend. In lieu of releasing the EP on one release date, the group will be releasing each single off the EP individually every day over Easter weekend, “love letter-style.” The project is an inspired homage to Jesus, from Futures, for Easter. Click here to view the official “Love Letters” website.

The inspirational project is following Future’s most recent release “Hills + Horizons” which saw great success across streaming platforms as well as buzz at radio. The Australian-native group, now based in Atlanta, GA, is continuing to give the glory to God through their awestruck melodies and faith-inspired lyrics. See below for the track listing as well as release schedule for the Love Letters From An Empty Tomb EP.Thursday, April 14th – “Cast My Cares”Friday, April 15th – “In Your Eyes”Saturday, April 16th – “Behold”Sunday, April 17th – “Death Is Defeated (Just Like That)”Bonus Track – “Just The Cross”Click here to stream and download Love Letters From An Empty Tomb

Heralding a distinct new chapter in his lauded three-decade career, beloved vocalist Charles Billingsley returns May 13 with The Shadow of Your Smile. A quintessential anthology of nostalgic favorites, the 15-song set also marks Billingsley’s Club44 Records debut. Dedicated to the preservation of the Great American Songbook, the boutique label is home to recordings from such renowned entertainers as Linda Lavin, Billy Stritch and Jane Monheit, among others.

Bringing his signature vocals to a range of treasured classics—Billingsley’s lifelong musical influences—The Shadow of Your Smile was produced by Tim Davis (Barbra Streisand, Lady Gaga); Wayne Haun (Linda Lavin, Jason Crabb); and Jamey Ray (Voctave). Album opener “Perfect” is the project’s singular original, a Bublé-esque ode to love. Co-penned by Billingsley and Jacob Holman, the carefree pop tune sets the stage for Bilingsley’s take on iconic Broadway, Jazz and Big Band hits spanning a century.

Alongside the wistfully reflective title cut, The Shadow of Your Smile is highlighted by such classics as “It Had To Be You” and “Beyond The Sea”; Broadway showstoppers “Bring Him Home” (Les Misérables) and “You’ll Never Walk Alone” (Carousel); and standout collaborations, including “The Very Thought of You,” a duet with award-winning recording artist TaRanda Greene; “Time to Say Goodbye,” featuring acclaimed soprano Adelaide Trombetta; and a soaring a cappella rendition of “America, The Beautiful” showcasing popular vocal ensemble Voctave.

“From the early days of hearing my parents’ vinyls of Sinatra, Pavarotti and Tennessee Ernie Ford, I’ve had a love for great singers and classic songs from many genres,” shares Billingsley. “After 30 years of making music, I felt like it was finally time to record some of these great tunes that people all over the world love—songs that evoke fond memories and nostalgia. The past few years have been hard, and so many of us seem to have lost our smile. I hope The Shadow of Your Smile will help bring some joy back.”

“Music and art, the things we create—it’s all from God, and we use it for His glory,” Billingsley adds. “It’s my prayer that these songs can help expand my reach as an artist, taking me to new places to share the love of God with others.”

Pre-add The Shadow of Your Smile now and receive instant access to the lead single, “It Had To Be You,” on April 15.

Five-time Grammy® nominated artist Matthew West announces his sixth book, “The God Who Stays,” set for release on September 6. Published by ‎W. Publishing Group, an imprint of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, the new book is an engaging and thoughtful exploration, balanced with West’s trademark wit and humor, that helps us reconnect to the Biblical truth that God is with us. In his most personal book to date, West was inspired by the dramatic events of 2020 to go on a spiritual journey of rediscovery and revival inspired by the words of his hit song “The God Who Stays.” For more information visit www.matthewwest.com/thegodwhostays.

Pre-Order “The God Who Stays” HERE.

West’s current single, “Me On Your Mind,” is quickly climbing the Billboard Christian Airplay Chart – currently at number 17 – and has surpassed 3 million streams across all digital streaming platforms. He has had 8 number 1 singles as an artist, including his most recent multi-week No. 1 song “What If.” It followed back-to-back No. 1 hits with “The God Who Stays” and “Truth Be Told,” which he later recorded a duet rendition with country superstar Carly Pearce (here). Dubbed by Billboard as a “well-rounded songwriter,” he’s notched 11 number ones as a songwriter and written songs recorded by artists including Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Scotty McCreery, Rascal Flatts, Maddie & Tae, Casting Crowns, Mandisa, Billy Ray Cyrus and more.

The genre hitmaker is the reigning ASCAP Christian Songwriter of the Year, his fourth time with this honor in his career. In addition to his several RIAA Gold-certified and Platinum singles, fans can hear him on “The Matthew West Podcast” which just surpassed an impressive 2 million downloads and drops new episodes weekly under the “That Sounds Fun” network. He is currently captivating audiences around the nation with his Brand New Tour – for dates and ticket information visit www.matthewwest.com/tour.

Multi-GRAMMY winning duo recording and Curb l Word Entertainment artist FOR KING + COUNTRY has been announced to receive a nomination for “Top Christian Artist” for the upcoming 2022 Billboard Music Awards, broadcasting on Sunday, May 15 at 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT on NBC, streaming live on Peacock.

The duo’s album, WHAT ARE WE WAITING FOR? recently debuted on the Billboard 200 at #7, and #2 on Billboard’s Top Album Sales Chart, marking the brother duo’s second Top 10 album of their career.

WHAT ARE WE WAITING FOR?, FOR KING + COUNTRY’s fourth studio project, features the talents of brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone, with 13 new original tracks that confront relevant issues and confirm the duo’s commitment to community, unity and family. Set against a sonic backdrop painted by the Platinum-selling group’s lush, vivid pop, the collection features cameos from Dante Bowe, Kirk Franklin and Tori Kelly, and includes barrier-breaking single “RELATE,” awe-inspiring “For God Is With Us” and unifying No. 1 hit “TOGETHER.”  “What Are We Waiting For? – The Tour” will take FOR KING + COUNTRY to arenas across the United States, performing brand new songs from its upcoming album for the first time, against the backdrop of an all-new stage design.

FOR KING + COUNTRY / 2022 Upcoming Spring Tour Dates Include:

4/14/22            Jackson, MS                          Mississippi Coliseum
4/15/22            Knoxville, TN                         Knoxville Civic Auditorium & Coliseum
4/16/22            Charlotte, NC                         Bojangles Coliseum
4/21/22            Champaign, IL                       State Farm Center
4/22/22            Springfield, MO                     JQH Arena at Missouri State
4/23/22            Highland Heights, KY           BB&T Arena At Northern Kentucky
4/24/22            Reading, PA                          Santander Arena
4/26/22            Portland, ME                          Cross Insurance Arena
4/28/22            Springfield, MA                     MassMutual Center
4/29/22            Binghamton, NY                    Visions Veterans Memorial Arena
4/30/22            Fairfax, VA                             EagleBank Arena
5/1/22              Salem, VA                              Salem Civic Center
5/5/22              Phoenix, AZ                           Grand Canyon University Arena
5/6/22              Fresno, CA                             Save Mart Center
5/7/22              Anaheim, CA                         Honda Center
5/8/22              Sacramento, CA                    Golden 1 Center
5/12/22            Portland, OR                          Veterans Memorial Coliseum
5/13/22            Spokane, WA                         Spokane Arena
5/14/22            Everett, WA                           Angels of the Winds Arena
5/15/22            Boise, ID                                Extramile Arena
5/17/22            Las Vegas, NV                       Orleans Arena
5/19/22            Albuquerque, NM                  Tingley Coliseum
5/20/22            Amarillo, TX                           Amarillo Civic Center
5/21/22            Rogers, AR                            Walmart Arkansas Music Pavilion
5/22/22            Franklin, TN                           FirstBank Amphitheatre

The founder and president of Mount Zion Drama Ministry, Evangelist Mike Bamiloye is celebrating his 62nd birthday today.

Joshua Bamiloye, the music producer for Mount Zion Film Productions took to his social media page via Instagram to celebrate his father’s new age.

“Happy Birthday Dad. Thank you for being a role model and positive influence to me and my generation. Thank you for all your dedication and selfless service to the body of Christ. Thank you for making me who I am today. Being the best dad in the world comes with a price, I’ve got to share you with a million others. May you live long and continue to prosper in Good health and peace of mind”, he wrote.

In collaboration with Christ Dominion Team, Ile-Ife, Osun state, Evang Mike Bamiloye will be celebrating his 62nd birthday with Abundant Harvest Campus Crusade, themed “Let There Be Light“.

The drama minister is set to host this crusade at Obafemi Awolowo University Amphitheatre, Ile-Ife from 13th to 15th April 2022, 5pm daily.

Among those who will be ministering in songs are Damilola and Bukola Bekes, alongside Zion Singers Int’l, Ibadan.

Evangelist Mike Bamiloye is well known Nigerian Christian film writer, drama minister, producer and film director.

Nigerian gospel music minister Nathaniel Bassey has expressed appreciation to God as he celebrates his 9th wedding anniversary with his wife today, 13th April 2022.

Taking to his Instagram page, Nathaniel Bassey shared a monochrome photo of himself and his wife.

Nathaniel Bassey said it had been nine years of immense goodness and mercy, and God blessed him with his own.

While expressing appreciation and love for his wife, Nathaniel Bassey said he would choose her again and again.

He captioned the photo: 9 Years of God’s immense Goodness and Mercy – God blessed me with my own. Always thankful He helped me. Thank you @saranata00 – I will chose you again and again. Love you my Honeywell ! #SeeWhatTheLordhasdone.