On Saturday, December 14 at 8:00 p.m., Carnegie Hall presents A Night of Inspiration, a celebratory evening of music and dance from diverse traditions in Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage. Under the direction of acclaimed producer, composer, and music director Ray Chew, and co-produced with his wife and business partner, Vivian Scott Chew, the exciting, uplifting program returns to the Hall for the fifth time.

The night highlights a star-studded roster of artists including Regina Belle, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Erica Campbell featuring Krista Campbell, Tina Campbell, Isaac Carree, Olen Cesari, Melvin Crispell, Doug E. Fresh, Cory Henry, Dave Hollister, Rahsaan Patterson, Kierra Sheard-Kelly, Bishop Hezekiah Walker, Brian Courtney Wilson and Juan Winans.

The stellar lineup will be accompanied by a 64-piece orchestra and a 150-voice multicultural choir for a special evening paying tribute to the pioneering gospel quartet The Winans.

“We are beyond excited to be producing our 5th “Night of Inspiration”.  It has been our honor to be given the opportunity to present unique programming at the iconic Carnegie Hall for the past 15 years.” – Ray and Vivian Chew

Carnegie Hall’s rewarding collaboration with Ray and Vivian Chew began fifteen years ago in 2009, when Ray served as musical director for two concerts during Carnegie Hall’s festival, Honor!, celebrating the African American cultural legacy with artists spanning blues, jazz, gospel, R&B, soul, and beyond.

The duo has since presented four sold-out A Night of Inspiration productions in Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage to packed audiences featuring a large-scale orchestra joined by high profile artists from the gospel and secular communities.

The Chews have been involved in a number of other notable Carnegie Hall performances throughout the years including A Tribute to Motown, paying homage to the distinctive soul sound of the legendary record label’s over 50-year legacy; a one-of-a kind participatory concert featuring gospel music’s biggest stars.

Donnie McClurkin and Kim Burrell; The Music of Stevie Wonder, a sing-a-long performance honoring the iconic performer’s beloved songbook and featuring R&B stars Leela James and BeBe Winans; and Sounds of Change, featuring a stellar cast of artists performing folk songs and R&B classics that defined a generation, as part of Carnegie Hall’s citywide festival The ‘60s: The Years that Changed America.

In summer 2019, as part of the free Carnegie Hall Citywide concert series, Ray and Vivian brought A Night of Inspiration to Bryant Park for an uplifting evening under the stars; they presented Ray Chew Live!, another lively outdoor celebration, in Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park and the Robert F. Smith Center for the Performing Arts in the fall 2021.

Today, JamesTown Music, founded by GRAMMY-nominated and multiple Stellar Award winner, JJ Hairston, have announced the signing of a deal finalizing a partnership between Motown Gospel and JamesTown Music. This announcement, comes just a few weeks ahead of the 25th anniversary reunion musical live recording of JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise. The 25th anniversary live recording, will mark the first project under the newly formed partnership between Motown Gospel and JamesTown Music.

The 25th anniversary reunion live recording of JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise will feature reimagined versions of their Billboard chart-topping #1 hits, iconic and classic songs, along with new music that showcases the choir’s continued relevance and Hairston’s powerful, spirit-filled leadership.

Special guest artists set to take the stage include: Tamela Mann, Jonathan McReynolds, Melvin Crispell III, Tim Bowman Jr, Wendy Wyatt, Anthem Nights Music, Janae Jones and Jumbo (Nigerian artist).

The anniversary recording is set to take place Saturday, November 23rd at The Gathering Place (4703 Marlboro Pike, Capitol Heights, MD) at 6PM.

Reflecting on the journey, JJ Hairston shared, “This milestone is a testament to God’s faithfulness and the passion of everyone involved in Youthful Praise over the years. We’ve experienced so many moments of joy, challenges, and inspiration. This recording is not just a reunion; it’s a reminder of our purpose and calling in ministry.”

Known for their vibrant sound, powerful worship, and deeply inspirational songs, JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise have been trailblazers in contemporary gospel music, reaching listeners worldwide with hits like “Thankful,” “Lord of All,” and “Awesome God” Founded in 1991, the once 35-member church choir from Bridgeport, CT has transformed into a Billboard chart topping national gospel artist, releasing Billboard Gospel #1 hits such as, “You Deserve It,” and “Miracle Worker.”

Currently, JJ Hairston is continuing his devotion to a greater purpose alongside his wife, Trina Hairston, serving as Senior Pastors of The Gathering Place DC.

“Signing JJ Hairston and Jamestown Music to Motown Gospel is a thrilling step for us. JJ’s powerful voice and impactful ministry have already transformed lives across the globe, and we’re excited to bring his unique vision and passion to our label.

This partnership is about elevating voices that inspire, and we’re honored to have JJ and his team join the Motown Gospel family as we continue our mission to reach hearts through exceptional music,” shares VP of Artist Development Head of Motown Gospel and TAMLA, Walter Thomas.

Multi-Grammy and GMA Dove Award winning Steven Curtis Chapman was officially welcomed into the Grand Ole Opry family tonight by Opry members Lady A. In addition to Lady A, Chapman personally requested these artists be a part of his special night: Opry members Ricky Skaggs– who invited Chapman to become an Opry member this summer– and Carly Pearce, plus Russell Dickerson and rock band Colony House, which featured two of Chapman’s sons, front man Caleb Chapman and drummer Will Franklin Chapman. For the special occasion, Chapman wore a custom suit designed by Manuel Cuevas’ son Manny Jr.

To begin his performance, Chapman sang “Cinderella” and “He Stopped Loving Her Today” after telling the story about forgetting the words to that song during his Opry debut when he was a teenaged performer at Opryland Theme Park. He was then joined by his father and brother to perform “My Redeemer Is Faithful and True,” offering his father a lifelong dream to sing on the Opry stage.

Lady A joined him on stage to welcome him into the family with kind words about his life and music including how he inspires with the gifts God has given him, how he encourages with his integrity and authentic faith and a deep love of music every time he steps into the circle.

“More than we can ask or imagine, God has promised,” said Chapman. “I know it doesn’t always look like this moment, but I do believe God has so much more for us. And sometimes we get to see it in very tangible and real ways. Like standing in this circle on stage tonight. As I look down, there is an actual light that glows all the way around it. A full circle, an unbroken circle. God is in front and back and side to side, he has us surrounded.”

Chapman then performed a song he wrote specifically for this night, “Grand Ole Opry Stage” and closed with a performance of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” with members of his family, performers from tonight’s show and a handful of Opry members who attended the show.

Chapman and the Opry kicked off National Adoption Month today by donating $5 from each ticket sold to benefit Show Hope, the nonprofit organization founded by Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife, Mary Beth, that provides ongoing care and support to children who have been orphaned and families impacted by adoption and foster care.

With 50 No. 1 hits, Chapman is the most awarded artist in Christian music history. The beloved singer made his Opry debut 42 years ago at age 19 when he was a performer at the Opryland USA theme park, singing the songs of Opry greats including George Jones, Ricky Skaggs and more.

Chapman is also scheduled to perform on this season’s Opry Country Christmas. The Opry member will be the Spotlight Artist on December 22. Presented by Humana, the series will also feature special performances by Spotlight Artists including Opry members Jon Pardi (12/1), Lorrie Morgan (12/2), The Oak Ridge Boys (12/4), Scotty McCreery (12/5), Chris Young (12/8), Chris Janson (12/11), Jamey Johnson (12/16), and more.

7x Stellar Award-winner and 2x Grammy-nominated Billboard-topping Chicago-native artist, VaShawn Mitchell, will be hosting a star-studded birthday celebration concert celebrating 25 years in the music industry! This “25 Years of Music” celebration will take place on Saturday, November 16 at Greenwood Oasis starting at 6pm.

Special performances of the night include the viral sensation Lisa Page Brooks (“Yeah yeah yeah yeah”), Beverly Crawford (“He’s Done Enough”), Tasha Page Lockhart (BET Sunday Best Season 6 Winner / WEtv’s Grown and Gospel), Meachum Clarke, Randy Weston (“For My Good”),  famed R&B crooner Dave Hollister (“One Woman Man”), and 3x Grammy Award-winning icon, Donnie McClurkin (“Stand”/”We Fall Down”). 

There will also be an exciting reunion of two choirs that have played an integral role to his career: Bishop Larry Trotter and Sweet Holy Spirit Choir and New Image Chorale. Aside from Mitchell’s own award-winning catalog including “Nobody Greater”, “Turning Around for Me”, and “Joy”, this night is sure to be a night filled with great memories and music.

When asked about this milestone, he says, “Wow, 25 years? It’s amazing how time flies and I’m truly grateful for the longevity that God has given me to impact churches around the world. Anyone who knows me knows that I write music for churches.  It’s always been my goal to create music that church choirs and praise teams can incorporate in their regular worship experiences, and it is truly a blessing to see the lives that have been touched both here in the states and abroad.”

He continues, “Since this moment is so important to me, I felt it was important to celebrate this moment where it all began — here in Chicago. Chicago is where I got my start and it’s Chicago that I want to commemorate this moment with.”

In 2011 Mitchell had his first breakout single, “Nobody Greater” that put him on the map in both gospel and mainstream audiences as a solo artist. The song spent 9 weeks at #1 on Billboard charts and Billboard later named him the “#1 Gospel Artist of the Year” and named “Nobody Greater” as the most played song of the year.

He was also nominated for two Grammys that year for “Contemporary R&B Gospel Album” and “Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Performance”. He’s continued to soar in his career by amassing three more Billboard #1 singles including, “Joy” (2017), “Lifted Up” (2021), and “See the Goodness” featuring Donnie McClurkin (2024).

Aside from his own expansive catalog of music, Mitchell has also been one of the industry’s heaviest contributors to writing and/or producing some of the industry’s most iconic hits.

Such hits include:

• “Break Every Chain” by Tasha Cobbs Leonard (Mitchell was the song’s Producer and he was the Executive Producer of the entire album entitled, Grace)
• “Trouble Don’t Last Always” by Bishop Larry Trotter and Sweet Holy Spirit (Producer)
• “My Worship is For Real” by Bishop Larry Trotter and Sweet Holy Spirit (Writer and Producer)
• “It’s Only a Test” by Bishop Larry Trotter and Sweet Holy Spirit (Writer and Producer)

This Harvey, IL native (who has a street named after him in the city), is bringing it all back home to celebrate this awesome milestone of 25 Years of music.  

Veteran country artist Richard Lynch is back, armed with fresh tales from the heartland on his newest album, Some Days Are Better Than Others, set to release November 8, 2024. Known for staying true to traditional country music, Lynch continues his legacy of storytelling with a touch of grit, humor, and nostalgia, bringing listeners along for a ride that celebrates the beauty of everyday life and the strength of human connections.

The album opens with its title track, “Some Days Are Better Than Others,” a reflective, warm-hearted tribute to life’s simple joys, inspired by a chance encounter with two elderly friends at a local donut shop. With lines like, “They’d say every day is a good day, but some days are better than others,” Lynch paints an honest picture of aging with grace and gratitude—a sentiment echoed throughout the album’s thirteen songs.

The track perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this record: everyday heroes, treasured memories, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship.

In “All Good Things Come Back Around,” Lynch reminisces about his roots, guitar lessons with his father, and the timeless charm of classic country. This song pays homage to the genre’s legends, blending warm nostalgia with a message of faith that Lynch’s brand of country is here to stay.

Meanwhile, the poignant “Never Made Colorado,” co-written with VL Haywood, explores the end of a relationship with raw vulnerability. The song’s melancholic lyrics, *”No, we never made Colorado, but we sure crossed that great divide,”* underscore Lynch’s skill at capturing heartbreak in its most relatable form.

Another standout is “Jesus and Bocephus,” a deeply personal song dedicated to Lynch’s late bandmate Tim Bennington. It’s a gentle, heartfelt tribute that blends humor with reverence, highlighting Lynch’s knack for writing songs that evoke laughter, tears, and memories all at once. Then there’s “Right Where He Ought to Be,” inspired by the extraordinary life of stuntman Kim Kahana.

Lynch turns a biographical tale into a reflective ballad on fate, resilience, and purpose—a theme that runs like a lifeline through much of his work.

Yet, Lynch doesn’t just tug at heartstrings; he knows how to have a little fun too. Tracks like “That Gal of Mine Frying Bacon” and “Ruckus Rufus” add a touch of lightheartedness and humor to the album. “That Gal of Mine Frying Bacon” is a playful ode to domestic life, complete with flirtatious lyrics and an irresistible hook that will leave you smiling.

In “Ruckus Rufus,” Lynch spins the story of a larger-than-life friend who lives to the beat of his own drum. It’s these characters, these folks from Lynch’s life and imagination, that fill the album with authenticity and charm.

Beyond the music, Some Days Are Better Than Others is a testament to Lynch’s dedication to his roots, his fans, and his craft. Released through his own Fence Row Records and distributed by MTS Records/Virgin/Universal, this album stands as a heartfelt celebration of real, unfiltered country music.

Lynch’s longstanding commitment to preserving traditional country shines through, with each song telling a unique story of resilience, humor, and love. Fans of classic country will feel right at home, while newer listeners will find themselves charmed by Lynch’s sincerity and down-home wisdom.

Lynch’s music isn’t just for listening—it’s for living alongside, like an old friend who understands the ups and downs of life. So if you’re looking for an album that feels like a conversation on a porch swing, a reminder of simpler times, or just a comforting slice of country, Some Days Are Better Than Others is here to welcome you home.

for KING + COUNTRY announces its new holiday album, “A Drummer Boy Christmas (LIVE),” to be released on November 22 via Curb | Word Entertainment. The new album coincides with the recently announced Fathom Theatrical Concert Event, “A DRUMMER BOY CHRISTMAS,” which will be in theaters nationwide for the first time ever from December 5-9.

The highly-anticipated holiday concert spectacle will be available for families around the country to see in theaters during this limited engagement. The duo will also be embarking on nine select 2024 performances for its “A DRUMMER BOY CHRISTMAS |THE 2024 TOUR EXPERIENCE” in the U.S. and the U.K. from December 1–20.

Brandon Lake and Phil Wickham present FOR THE ONE, a tour documentary coming to theaters nationwide October 27-29 & November 2 via Fathom.  Wickham and Lake, both celebrated for their inspiring music and powerful performances, bring their songs to life in a new and profound way.

FOR THE ONE not only highlights their dynamic live performances from the Summer Worship Nights Tour but also explores the deeper stories behind their music, revealing the personal and collective experiences that have shaped their artistic journeys.

“Never in my life did I think I would be a part of telling a piece of my story in theaters. I hope the stories encountered through this movie show everyone watching how much they are loved by the ONE. I can’t wait to share this with the world and I hope people are encouraged by it,” said Phil Wickham.

Brandon Lake & Phil Wickham ‘FOR THE ONE’ Tour Documentary Arrives In Theaters October 27

Stream & Enjoy

“My hope for this project is that it would not only show what it takes to go on tour, but why the music and touring mean so much to us. Countless lives have been changed, especially ours. Though we’ve had the opportunity to influence many, our focus remains FOR THE ONE,” said Brandon Lake.

FOR THE ONE is directed by Noah Taher, produced by Dove Award and Billboard Music Video Award-winning Ken Carpenter (Angel Studios’ THE SHIFT), and executive produced by Ben Howard (BLUE MIRACLE, THE LONG GAME). Lake and Wickham are repped by UTA, who packaged the film.

Rising gospel artist Enrique Holmes, the first signee under Refraine Records, co-founded by Naomi Raine (of the Grammy Award-winning group Maverick City) and G. Morris Coleman, is set to unveil his highly anticipated sophomore album, You’re Gonna See It. The VVIP live release event will take place on Friday, October 25, 2024, at 7:30 PM at Living Faith Tabernacle in College Park, GA.

With a diverse lineup of collaborators, including Tasha Cobbs-Leonard, Naomi Raine, William Murphy, and Kelontae Gavin, the album promises an inspiring musical experience. The project reflects Holmes’ commitment to weaving hope, encouragement, and worship into every note, reinforcing his reputation as a Davidic minstrel.

Enrique Holmes is known for breakout singles such as “Miracle Worker” and his contributions to Maverick City’s #1 hit “I Thank God,” which earned him the 2024 BMI Christian Award. His unique blend of prophetic declarations and heartfelt worship connects audiences across generations and backgrounds.

Naomi Raine on Enrique Holmes and the Future of Gospel Music

“As someone who has been fortunate to experience incredible success through Maverick City, I believe it’s my mission to empower others to walk in their calling. Enrique Holmes embodies everything Gospel music should feel and sound like—authentic, spirit-filled, and deeply connected to the heart of God. I’m honored to walk alongside him and bring his voice to the world through Refraine Records.”

This album release event will mark an important milestone for Holmes and Refraine Records as they launch their journey to uplift and empower voices in Gospel music. The evening will feature exclusive live performances, creating a one-of-a-kind worship experience that reflects the essence of Holmes’ new album.

You’re Gonna See It will be available on all streaming platforms following the release event.

First -time, double 2024 GMA Dove Award-winner and Billboard’s Top New Christian Artist of 2023, Forrest Frank, is keeping things moving at warp speed, releasing a brand-new track “Your Way’s Better” today and also revealing the upcoming November 1, 2024 release of the CHILD OF GOD (Deluxe) project.  With lyrics about searching high and low for purpose, but ultimately realizing that just following God’s way is the best path of them all, the new track is one of seven new songs featured on the deluxe (full track listing below).

Following the success of Frank’s genre-debut GOD IS GOOD EP, which reached Top 5 on the Top Christian Albums chart, his first full-length project, CHILD OF GOD hit No.1 on the iTunes All Genres chart, and has held the No.1 spot on the Billboard Christian Albums Chart for TWELVE weeks, making it the biggest Christian album debut of the year so far.

Earlier this month Frank won his first-ever GMA Dove Awards for New Artist of the Year and Pop/Contemporary Song of the Year with his hit “Good Day,” and his latest radio single, “Never Get Used To This” featuring JVKE has grown quickly at Christian radio. The song is firmly in the Top 30 on both of Mediabase’s main Christian radio charts (Christian AC and Christian Audience) with just over 1.6M in weekly audience. It’s also trending Top 25 on Billboard Christian AC this week with 32 stations on including the KLOVE network.

In addition to album sales and radio hits, the momentum Frank has generated with his music is explained in the massive and continued growth on his socials, with a base that has boomed to over 4 million fans on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok alone, and over 6 million Spotify monthly listeners.

DELUXE TRACK LIST (new tracks in BOLD):

1. YOUR WAY’S BETTER
2. UPS & DOWNS
3. HEAVEN ON THIS EARTH (with Torey D’Shaun)
4. CRAZY (with Nic D)
5. ALIVE
6. GOD TAKES BREAKS
7. UNCONDITIONAL
8. WHAT LIVING IS ALL ABOUT
9. NO LONGER BOUND (with Hulvey)
10. UP! (with Connor Price)
11. MORE THAN A FEELING
12. SAFE AND SOUND (with CAIN)
13. LIFE IS GOOD
14. MIRACLE WORKER (with Tori Kelly)
15. HEY GRANDAD
16. ALL I NEED (with Hulvey)
17. GOD IS GOOD (with Caleb Gordon)
18. ALWAYS
19. RICH MAN
20. HALLELUJAH
21. WELL DONE (with Sam Rivera)
22. GOOD DAY
23. SUNSHINE
24. NEVER GET USED TO THIS (with JVKE)
25. NEVER LEFT MY SIDE
26. LIFT MY HANDS
27. CHILD OF GOD (with Jonathan Pokluda)

In this episode, Judah welcomes Aodhán King, the petite prince of contemporary Christian music, whose falsetto has been melting hearts since 2005. With his debut solo album BEYOND US which dropped on October 18, Aodhán opens up about his journey from Hillsong to Los Angeles, the joy and challenges of going solo, and what fuels his passion for music and faith.

“In Good Faith with Chelsea & Judah Smith” is a podcast series hosted by Chelsea and Judah Smith and centered on their life’s work: raising a family and building a church — Churchome — a community based on the principles of compassion, belonging, and love. Taking a candid approach, our hosts will address everything from anxiety, to sex, to the frank truths about marriage. If going to church is the living room, Judah & Chelsea just want to invite you to the front.