Founded nearly a decade ago by veteran songwriter, producer and industry executive John Chisum with a mission “to empower Christian songwriters worldwide,” Nashville Christian Songwriters (NCS) opens an unprecedented new chapter with the launch of the NCS Collective and NCS Community; the addition of key staff; and the acquisition of a state-of-the-art studio and event space.

“NCS has always been about community,” says Chisum. “Songwriting and ministry can be lonely endeavors, so we’re thrilled to be providing a space for Christian artists and writers to not only find resources to grow, but a place to belong and build up their network of contacts, support and fellowship.”

Offering record label and publishing services for the first time, Chisum recently unveiled the NCS Collective. Designed to create and distribute faith-based music hallmarked by stylistic diversity, the NCS Collective welcomes acclaimed singer/songwriter Coby James as well as Chisum himself as the label’s flagship artists, along with a burgeoning lineup of genre-spanning talent.

“We have so much great music coming out of our NCS Community and artist development clients that it would be a shame to not let people experience the powerful songs we hear on a day-to-day basis,” explains Bryant Urich, director of production and studio operations, NCS. “The Collective is very eclectic on purpose—we’re not limited to one genre or style as a label.”

Further expanding the ministry’s footprint is the new NCS Community. A subscription-based program offering regularly scheduled workshops, instructional downloads, and guest presentations from veteran artists and industry professionals, among a wealth of other tools, the NCS Community is an affordable, inspirational and informative space where independent singer/songwriters can flourish.

In addition, Chisum announces two key staff appointments which will serve to vitally undergird the organization’s exponential growth. Joining NCS from Gaither Music Group, Hannah Franklin steps into the role of director of marketing and artist services and assistant to Chisum, while acclaimed singer/songwriter and producer Bryant Urich has been named director of production and studio operations.

Boasting a world-class recording studio, podcast suite and versatile event space in the heart of Nashville’s creative district, NCS recently relocated to the historic Berry Hill studio formerly owned by iconic country music songwriter and producer Keith Stegall.

Chisum also continues to host and produce NCS’ popular “Song Revolution” podcast. With nearly 200 episodes to date, the show has become synonymous with the organization’s mission, featuring insightful conversations on songwriting and artistry with such names as Bear Rinehart (NEEDTOBREATHE), Kari Jobe, Matt Maher and Ryan Stevenson.

New York Times bestselling author, Lysa TerKeurst will be joined by nine-time GRAMMY nominee, Natalie Grant for the Trust Again Tour hitting 11 cities this fall. Each night, audiences will be treated to a powerful combination of TerKeurst’s profound insights and Grant’s uplifting music, creating a space for attendees to experience joy, peace, and a deeper connection with God.

“To the woman who has been hurt and is trying to trust again … I deeply understand the kind of pain and skepticism you feel,” said TerKeurst. “But here’s what I’ve come to know: Having your trust broken can be life-altering, but it doesn’t have to be life-ruining.

I’ve learned so much from my own personal journey and I want to share it all with you … the scriptural wisdom I’ve gained, the helpful tools, the setbacks, the victories, and the deepest wrestling through questions like How can I trust God when I don’t understand what He allows? And why does it seem like the people who hurt me got away with it? That’s why I’m so excited to come to a city near you for the Trust Again Tour with my friend and worship leader, Natalie Grant.

After leaving these one-night events, you’ll have the confidence and courage to walk into the future full of possibilities, knowing the risk of trusting again is worth taking.”

“I’m so excited to be hitting the road with Lysa TerKeurst for the Trust Again Tour,” added Grant. “This isn’t just about the music or the messages; it’s about coming together to find hope and healing. I believe that Faith will be renewed and lives will be changed.”

Broken trust complicates every bit of the parts of love that should be comforting. Perhaps a friend, family member, spouse, or leader has disappointed or betrayed you, leading to doubts about God’s trustworthiness. You’re not alone. Lysa TerKeurst has been in your shoes and understands the deep wrestling that happens when you don’t think you can trust again. 

But she also knows the peace that is still possible when you know how to repair trust or can recognize when distrust is the wisest choice to make. Join her and worship leader Natalie Grant on the Trust Again Tour this fall for a night of worship, Biblical insight, and practical guidance to renew trust in God, offering stability amid uncertainty.

Tickets for the Trust Again Tour are on sale now. The tour kicks off Thursday, October 17th in Columbus, OH before making stops in Chattanooga, TN; Montgomery, AL; Fort Myers, FL; and others before its final stop on October 30th in Anderson, IN. For a full list of cities and dates, see below. For more information, visit transparentproductions.com.

Thursday, October 17, 2024 – The Naz Church* – Columbus (Grove City), OH
Friday, October 18, 2024 – Abba’s House – Chattanooga (Hixson), TN
Saturday, October 19, 2024 – North Monroe Baptist Church – Monroe, LA
Sunday, October 20, 2024 – Vaughn Forest Church – Montgomery, AL
Monday, October 21, 2024 – Calvary Christian Center – Ormond Beach, FL
Wednesday, October 23, 2024 – Community Christian Church – Fort Lauderdale (Tamarac), FL
Thursday, October 24, 2024 – First Assembly of God – Fort Myers, FL
Sunday, October 27, 2024 – First Baptist Church Bentonville – Bentonville, AR
Monday, October 28, 2024 – Heartland Church – Paducah, KY
Tuesday, October 29, 2024 – Evangel University’s Spence Chapel – Springfield, MO
Wednesday, October 30, 2024 – Reardon Auditorium – Anderson, IN

*Natalie Grant not appearing

Red Street Records, founded by Rascal Flatts’ Jay DeMarcus, announces its third expansion of 2024 with the hiring of industry newcomer Gianna Robinson and the promotion of Creative Director Cambria Sojka. Red Street, home of Country acts Chris Lane, Neon Union, Ryan Larkins and Ryan Griffin and Christian recording artists Jason Crabb, Consumed By Fire, Iveth Luna and Cade Thompson has seen tremendous growth since its conception in 2019 and continues to make headway with today’s development.

CEO DeMarcus shares, “I continue to be excited about the growth that’s happening at Red Street. Internally it’s been amazing to watch Cambria grow over the last several years and come into her own, equally exciting is adding new, fresh energy to the team with Gianna. It is a very exciting time at Red Street. Dan [RSR Chairman Dan Crockett] and I couldn’t be more thrilled with the team we have assembled.”

A California-native and San Diego State graduate, Red Street’s Cambria Sojka has elevated effortlessly into her new role as the label’s Creative Director, serving both the Country and Christian rosters. Before joining the label in 2019 as Social Media Manager, Cambria earned her professional stripes in digital marketing working for San Diego Magazine and Cove Collective, a West Coast-based creative agency, before making her move to Nashville, TN.

Cambria now oversees all creative vision and production across the entirety of the label, reporting directly to VP of Streaming and Playlist Strategy Michael Steele.

Promising industry newcomer Gianna Robinson comes to Red Street Records as the label’s Digital Content Coordinator, assisting on all things streaming and digitalasset production for both Country and Christian markets. As a Stetson University Digital Arts major with a minor in Business Management, Robinson brings a plethora of knowledge in audio engineering, graphic design, photography and content creation. Directly reporting to VP Michael Steele, Gianna is set to be an impactful addition to the already stout team.

Take a FEE VACATION from July 15th through July 22nd and grab tickets to some of your favorite tours with Awakening Events. All Awakening Events’ tours currently on sale (except Good Friday Nashville) have tickets available for only $20 all-in with no additional fees plus applicable taxes while supplies last.

“One of the things we have heard most commonly over the last few years is that money is tight and families are having a tough time budgeting for entertainment,” shares Curtis Pinkerton of Awakening Events. “The AE Fee Vacation week is our attempt to help make these amazingly powerful and impactful events more accessible for families across the country.”

There is something for everyone in this offer.  Concertgoers can purchase tickets to see amazing artists like TobyMac, MercyMe, Zach Williams, Maverick City Music, We The Kingdom, Casting Crowns, CROWDER, CAIN, Matthew West, comedians Tim Hawkins, Chonda Pierce, and a whole lot more! Click here to see all of the tours taking part and to secure your $20 ALL-IN tickets starting on July 15th.

Richard Lynch, a stalwart of traditional country music, is poised to release his deeply heartfelt collection of cover songs, “Pulling Up the Covers,” on July 26th, 2024. The album promises to be a nostalgic journey through some of the most cherished country classics, brought to life with Lynch’s distinct, resonant voice and genuine passion for the genre.

Leading the charge is the first single, “Rest Your Love on Me,” a Barry Gibb-written, Conway Twitty classic, just released on July 5th.

Lynch’s rendition of “Rest Your Love on Me” is a masterclass in emotional delivery and interpretive skill. The song, which originally showcased Twitty’s tender vocal stylings, finds a new home in Lynch’s warm baritone. From the first note, Lynch’s voice exudes a comforting familiarity, wrapping around the poignant lyrics like a reassuring embrace. His interpretation brings a fresh depth to the song, highlighting the underlying themes of solace and unconditional support.

The arrangement stays true to the traditional country roots while subtly enhancing the emotional gravitas of the track. The gentle strumming of acoustic guitars, paired with the soft, melodic hum of the steel guitar, creates a lush backdrop that perfectly complements Lynch’s vocal delivery. Each verse is delivered with a sincerity that feels almost conversational, as if Lynch is directly speaking to the listener, offering a shoulder to lean on and a pocket to hold their worries.

The chorus, with its repeated plea to “Lay your troubles on my shoulders, put your worries in my pocket, rest your love on me awhile,” resonates deeply, showcasing Lynch’s ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously. His voice, rich with experience and emotion, adds layers of meaning to each line, making the listener feel every word as if it were a personal promise.

Richard Lynch’s Soulful Tribute to a Classic: “Rest Your Love on Me”

Stream & Enjoy

“Pulling Up the Covers” is a labor of love for Lynch, featuring carefully selected tracks that have profoundly influenced his musical journey. From Mel Tillis’ “Memory Maker” to Vern Gosdin’s “Till The End,” each song is a testament to Lynch’s unwavering dedication to true country music. This album is more than a collection of covers; it’s a tribute to the songs and artists that have shaped Lynch’s career and a heartfelt homage to the genre he loves.

Lynch’s long-standing career, marked by numerous hits and chart-toppers, both domestically and internationally, has earned him a revered place in the country music community. His collaborations with legendary artists and his tireless work supporting veterans through the Love Tattoo Foundation further highlight his commitment to making a positive impact through his music.

In “Rest Your Love on Me,” Richard Lynch not only honors Conway Twitty and Barry Gibb’s original masterpiece but also stamps his own mark on the song, bringing it to a new generation of listeners with authenticity and heartfelt emotion. This single sets a high bar for the rest of “Pulling Up the Covers,” promising an album filled with timeless classics delivered with the passion and sincerity that only Richard Lynch can provide.

With this release, Lynch reaffirms his status as a guardian of traditional country music, offering a comforting and familiar sound in a rapidly changing musical landscape. “Rest Your Love on Me” is not just a cover; it’s a testament to the enduring power of country music and the artists who keep its spirit alive.

–James Sycamore

Missed our first committee webinar? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Join industry veteran Monica Coates as she hosts an insightful one-hour session featuring an incredible panel of Publishing experts in Christian & Gospel music, including:

• Cee Barrett, Anomaly Music Group
• Kent Draughon, Capitol CMG Publishing
• Amaya Martin, Essential Music Publishing
• Andie Rankin, Essential Music Publishing
• Dana Soréy, C Bazz Entertainment

In this webinar, you’ll learn how to understand the value of your songs, discover what a publisher does, and find out how to maximize the impact and return on your music.

Today marks the exciting launch of “STELLAR TODAY,” a dynamic new magazine aimed at reinvigorating the landscape of journalism surrounding the gospel music genre. Combining cutting-edge design with insightful editorial content, “STELLAR TODAY” sets out to become the premier destination for those seeking inspiration, information, and a fresh perspective on the gospel music industry and gospel artists.

Featuring a blend of in-depth articles, stunning visuals, and expert advice, “STELLAR TODAY” features updates and insights of over 20 chart topping gospel icons, including CeCe Winans, Tye Tribbett, Pastor Mike Jr., Marvin Sapp, Donnie McClurkin, John P. Kee and more!

“We are thrilled to unveil STELLAR TODAY to the world,” said Don Jackson, Founder of Stellar TV and Central City Productions. “Our team, led by Teresa Hairston Jackson as senior editor, has poured their passion and expertise into every page, ensuring that each article not only informs but also inspires our readers to enjoy this publication. Of course, the anchoring information inside surrounds our 39th annual Stellar Awards show, including nominees and schedules for the weekend.”

One unique aspect of the debut issue of “STELLAR TODAY” is the fact that it offers over 130 pages, but also features two different covers, one with Tye Tribbett and the other with Pastor Mike Jr. The cover subjects were the highest vote-getters from the 2024 Stellar Awards ballots. “STELLAR TODAY” is scheduled to be an ANNUAL publication with a commitment to quality and innovation, the magazine aims to become a trusted companion for readers seeking to connect their passion with increased insight into all things related to gospel music.

“STELLAR TODAY” will be available in both print and digital formats, ensuring accessibility for our global audience. Readers can subscribe online at [stellartoday.com] and order the print magazine or receive the issue straight to their inbox.

The debut issue of “STELLAR TODAY” will be available for purchase July 18-21, during the 39th Stellar Gospel Music Awards week.

GRAMMY-nominated, 22x platinum, Pandora Billionaires Club members SKILLET are thrilled to announce that they will hit the road this fall with another one of the best-selling rock bands of the 21st century, SEETHER. Well known as two of the rock scene’s biggest acts of the past two decades, the tour kicks off September 17th in Asheville, NC and hits another 17 cities through October 20th.

Tickets go on sale this Friday, July 12th, at 10am local time, with various pre-sales set to begin on Wednesday, July 10th at 10am local time. Tickets are available via Skillet.com.

“We’re glad to be back on the road with our friends in Seether again,” says SKILLET.  “We’ve talked about going out together for a while, but after we played a show together this summer that drew big numbers, we knew it was time.”

Following this tour, SKILLET will embark on their first-ever tour of the Middle East in November. The band will be playing in Turkey, Kazakhstan, United Arab Emirates, and more. All dates are below at at Skillet.com.

After years of selling out shows across Western Europe, Australia, Japan and more the tour is as thrilling for the band as it will be for its legion of diehard fans:

“For years, we’ve received fan mail and messages from our fans in the Middle East and in Europe,” says singer/guitarist John Cooper. “We’re excited we finally get to tour and meet our fans on the road. I can’t say too much yet, but we’ll have new music in the fall and we can’t wait to hear the fans singing along.”

SKILLET SEETHER 2024 TOUR:

• 9/17/2024 — Asheville, NC — ExploreAsheville.com Arena
• 9/19/2024 — Baltimore, MD — Pier Six Pavilion
• 9/20/2024 — Boston, MA — Roadrunner
• 9/21/2024 — Bethlehem, PA — Wind Creek Event Center
• 9/23/2024 — Pittsburgh, PA — Stage AE Outdoors
• 9/24/2024 — Chicago, IL — Radius
• 9/27/2024 — Huntington, WV — Marshall Health Network Arena
• 10/2/2024 — Kansas City, MO — The Midland Theatre
• 10/3/2024 — St. Louis, MO — Saint Louis Music Park
• 10/5/2024 — Houston, TX — White Oak Music Hall Lawn
• 10/6/2024 — Dallas, TX — Texas Trust CU Theatre at Grand Prairie
• 10/8/2024 — Lubbock, TX — Lonestar Events Center
• 10/9/2024 — Albuquerque, NM — Revel ABQ
• 10/11/2024 — Mesa, AZ — Mesa Amphitheatre
• 10/15/2024 — Denver, CO — The Mission Ballroom
• 10/18/2024 — Omaha, NE — Astro Amphitheater
• 10/19/2024 — Des Moines, IA — Vibrant Music Hall
• 10/20/2024 — Minneapolis, MN — The Armory

SKILLET MIDDLE EAST TOUR: 

• 11/4 — Istanbul, Turkey — JJ Arena
• 11/6 — Astana, Kazakhstan — President Center Concert Hall
• 11/7 — Almaty, Kazakhstan — Boluan Sholak Arena
• 11/9 — Tbilisi, Georgia — Mono Hall
• 11/11 — Pyrgos, Cypress — Monte Caputo
• 11/12 — Athens, Greece — Floyd
• 11/14 — Dubai, UAE — The Agenda

Darlene Zschech has signed an exclusive worldwide agreement with Integrity Music for the release of a special album titled “Testament.” The studio album celebrates the 30-year anniversary of “Shout to the Lord” with 25 fresh takes on legacy releases and five brand-new songs. It will be presented on two EPs releasing over summer 2024, with a full album release on October 11 followed by a 30-day devotional published by David C Cook.

Zschech is an acclaimed singer-songwriter, worship leader, pastor, author, and speaker from Australia who pioneered a fresh movement of worship music in the Church from the 1990s onwards. She has written multiple songs sung in the Church worldwide and in several languages, such as “Shout to the Lord,” “Victor’s Crown,” “In Jesus Name,” and “Worthy is the Lamb.”

Her life’s passion for serving God and people led her to pastor Hope Unlimited Church (HopeUC) alongside her husband, Mark, and initiated HOPE: Global, a non-profit organization bringing hope to people through education in many countries across Africa and Asia.

 “We are thrilled to be able to contribute to the next season in Darlene Zschech’s extraordinary ministry,” said Jonathan Brown, Chief Global Officer at David C Cook.“Darlene’s songs have helped lead people all over the world into the presence of God, which stands as a testimony to the craft that she has stewarded over the years.”

“It is an honor for Integrity Music to continue working alongside Darlene Zschech to further her invaluable contribution to leading the Church in worshiping the King of Kings! We believe that her gift will help many more people to discover the beauty and goodness of God,” said Blaine Barcus, President of Integrity Music.

With this unique album, Zschech was inspired to recreate her iconic worship songs, presenting a collection of studio recordings in a new light, as she explains:

“‘Testament’ means ‘a statement of belief or direction’, or in a legal term, something that serves as ‘evidence of truth, legally binding,’ which so describes the promises of God, His character and His goodness. This has been my heart’s desire over my lifetime – to live in response to the great love of God and His unwavering faithfulness over my life. Really, this is the heart of worship, that the whole of our lives would be poured out for the glory of God. It’s not always easy to choose this kind of life, but obedience when following Jesus is really the only way you’ll ever walk in true freedom. This is my story and the foundation from which ‘Testament’ has been woven together.”

On the heels of their widely embraced debut hymns set last year, Georgia-based collective Rock Springs Worship returns August 2 with Hymns Vol. 2. The StowTown Worship release was produced by Rock Springs Church music director Matt Summers and features stirring new adaptations of 10 timeless hymns.

Album opener “I’ll Fly Away” is buoyed by a vibrant pop arrangement, encapsulating the project’s mission to seamlessly blend the past and present in authentic moments of worship. Alongside new renditions of such favorites as “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” and “God Will Take Care of You,” Hymns Vol. 2 showcases four selections artfully merging hymns and contemporary worship anthems, including a moving take on “Holy, Holy, Holy” with Michael W. Smith’s modern classic “Agnus Dei.”

“Our congregation has been singing hymns since its inception in 1852,” shares Amber Balltzglier, Rock Springs Church worship leader and co-executive producer of Hymns Vol. 2. “As music styles have evolved, we saw the necessity of putting the timeless messages of hymns with contemporary instrumentation to make them more at home in our modern worship experience. I believe the Lord has helped us achieve that goal with Hymns Vol. 1 and Vol. 2.”

“When we sing hymns, we sing the Truth of God’s Word, and it never returns void,” she adds. “We want generations to hear and know these old songs and connect a memory or experience with God to these words and melodies.”

Hymns Vol. 2 is also highlighted by a guest turn from multi-Dove Award-winning powerhouse TaRanda Greene. Lending her signature vocals to “It is Well with My Soul,” Greene’s ties to Rock Springs Church made her a natural fit for the project.

“I am honored to be a part of this hymns project,” Greene says. “I love the hymns of the Church, and I love the people of Rock Springs. The pastoral and music teams make sure that everyone who walks through the doors of the church has the opportunity to have a personal experience with the Lord.”

“It’s refreshing to add hymns to a modern-day worship service, because they can unite a congregation of all ages, races and backgrounds in a way that no other song can,” she continues. “‘It Is Well’ reminds all of us that we aren’t alone. Even in the darkest of times, the love of God brings us peace and courage to keep moving forward.”