Popular media outlet Today’s Christian Entertainment has named new artist Kim Gentry Meyer’s debut project, Herald, as one of the Top 12 albums of 2023.
In addition to Meyer, other artists on the list include Katy Nichole, Phil Wickham, Jason Gray, Christy Nockels, Cory Asbury, Riley Clemmons, and more.
In their recent review of Herald, Today’s Christian Entertainment says: “As messengers of God’s truth, it is our imperative to use whatever abilities He has bestowed upon us for His glory and the good of others. Kim Gentry Meyer does so with remarkable talent.
With straightforward, delicate illustrations, much as an artist uses the strokes of a paintbrush to hint at the beauty of a flower, Herald skillfully and insightfully reminds us of God’s love and promises.”
Meyer, an award-winning songwriter and poet who won the title of Mrs. Massachusetts 2020 from the prestigious Mrs. America organization, was humbled to receive such recognition so early in her recording career.
“I’m so honored that Herald has been included with such established and esteemed artists on Today’s Christian Entertainment’s Top 12 Albums of 2023 list,” says Meyer. “My mission is to be the Lord’s “herald,” to shine a light on the Lord’s restoration and hope and to be an encouragement to all who hear my album.
I’m so glad listeners are feeling connected to that message. I’m looking forward to what 2024 brings, and to God be the Glory!”
Herald, recently released on NWN Records, is distributed through Integrated Music Rights, part of the Integrity Music family.
Recently, Meyer released her beautiful debut video of the song “Mind of Christ” from the Herald. The powerful song honestly addresses mental health and depression and seeks to overcome the darkness by finding wholeness in faith.
“I think the message is one of the most important on the album,” says Meyer,“We all deal with mental struggles and feelings of sadness, depression, darkness, or just feeling a little down. There isn’t one person on earth that hasn’t struggled with this, especially with the pandemic.”
“I can relate to this song personally and want others to know they are not alone, and that Jesus can restore their peace of mind,” she continues. “The Christian community tends to shy away from talking about this topic, so I want to shine a light on it. The enemy does not want us to be mentally whole. The greatest battle is the battle for our minds!”
Meyer has been featured by multiple media outlets since this album’s release, including The Christian Post’s online lifestyle magazine, Crossmap.com, the award-winning talk show, Babbie’s House, and many more.
Christian Music executives Darren Elrod and James Rueger have been promoted to President and Chief Creative Officer of Fair Trade Services (FTS), respectively. These promotions were announced today by Fair Trade Services Founder and CEO Jeff Moseley, to whom both will report.
In Elrod’s expanded role, he will oversee all aspects of FTS’s business, financial, and marketing matters while continuing to manage the company’s day-to-day activities. Rueger will oversee all aspects of the company’s A&R and creative-related objectives for both the recorded music and music publishing businesses.
Both will work closely with Moseley who will continue to oversee label strategy to support the ongoing development of FTS.
“Darren and James have consistently exhibited excellence in their respective areas of responsibility for our company,” Moseley explains. “This is public recognition of what our artists and managers have already known. They—along with our amazing team—have continued to deliver for our roster of artists for many years. Their promotions are well-deserved and strengthen Fair Trade Services for the years ahead.”
Elrod joined the FTS team three years ago as COO. With more than 20 years in the industry, Elrod was previously COO at Provident Label Group, departing in 2020. He shares, “I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and excited about the future.
We have such an incredible roster of artists at Fair Trade Services and this company exists to serve these artists well. I look forward to continuing this work with Jeff, James, and the rest of the team.”
Rueger has been with FTS since 2005. He initially joined as an A&R manager leading to his most recent role as Sr. VP of A&R before becoming CCO. “I’ve been fortunate enough to spend 19 years at Fair Trade Services working alongside and advocating for our gifted, passionate artists and songwriters,” Rueger says. “They are incredible music makers, and I’m as excited as I’ve ever been to continue the journey with them.”
Award-winning singer-songwriter Eddy Mann is back with a powerful new single, “Hallelujah.” The track is the second single to be released from his latest album, “Chapel Songs,” is a follow-up to his #1 UK iTunes chart single, “Hope of the World.” This one also topped that same chart. Mann, who hails from Philadelphia, is known for his unique blend of cultural and spiritual influences that shine through in his music. With a career spanning over 20 albums, Mann’s music has touched the hearts of audiences all over the world. His hit single, “The Consequence,” was a Top 10 Christian Music Weekly radio hit!
In Mann’s words, “I’m driven to write, to record, and to perform by the opportunity to bring a smile, a light, or just a moment of peace to someone in need. That’s why I get up each day, that’s my part to play in this story, and that’s why I’ll continue to write about my experiences getting through each day.” Eddy took some time to answer a few questions in this exclusive interview…
Can you tell us a little about your musical journey and how you got started as a singer-songwriter?
If you were to connect the dots from my childhood to this date in time, it would show a very natural smooth progression. I was born into a very supportive family that was spiritually driven.
I sang as a child, progressed to an instrument (guitar) in my early teens, found out my sweet spot was writing songs in my late teens, and then in my early thirties experienced an epiphany (as a professional musician) when I realized that I should have been using my gift to further God’s Kingdom. Your latest single, “Hallelujah,” is inspired by the book of Revelation. Can you share with us your creative process in writing this song? In January of last year, my wife and I decided to do a deep dive into the book of Revelation.
Neither of us had done so before, so we decided to walk through it together. For forty days I wrote continuously as we journeyed along. In chapter nineteen the word Hallelujah (Praise the Lord) appears for the first time in scripture.
It’s a very climactic moment in the Bible, and I found myself wanting to respond in song. You have released over 20 albums in your career. How do you keep your music fresh and continue to evolve as an artist? Our life with Jesus is an ongoing conversation.
It continues daily through whatever we’re living through. It’s not static, it’s evolving, or at least it should be. It’s a journey that entails traveling and moving forward, and so as I wander from day to day I tend to capture my thoughts, both joys and concerns, in written word and music …and since no two days are ever alike, I find new inspiration in the living. What has been your most memorable moment as a musician so far?
This is a very hard question to answer because God is working continually to use our work in the ways that he sees fit, and often we don’t get to witness the results of our efforts. But one moment that stands out for me is a rather personal one.
As my mother was in the waning hours of her hospice time, she shared with me that a song that I had written was what was bringing her comfort. It was the best moment that I won’t ever forget. Your music often reflects your cultural and spiritual roots. Can you tell us how these influences shape your music?
My parents exposed me to a pretty expansive view of the world. I listened to all kinds of music and gravitated to all things creative even at a very young age.
And while this was happening I was in church every weekend with the seeds of faith being planted. This background is and always will be a part of the fabric of my life, and it’s only natural that it’s exposed when I’m honest in my writing. Your hit single, “The Consequence,” was a Top 10 Christian Music Weekly radio hit.
Did you expect such a positive response to the song?
No, I work rather hard at trying to have realistic expectations with my work. Only God knows for sure how, when, and where he’ll use it …if he uses it at all.
I believe that there are some songs and or poems that only I need to hear. Like a cleansing of sorts, a cathartic experience. Now would I love for the whole world to be touched by a song, well of course! How do you balance your faith and personal beliefs with the music industry and mainstream audience?
I’m an independent singer-songwriter which at its core means that nobody in this world owns me or my work. I get to decide all things creative. I strive each day to hear and to follow the Spirit’s leading. When I get it right, all’s good. When I don’t, it’s a learning experience that’s not to be repeated. What can fans expect from your album, “Chapel Songs”?
It’s my prayer that anyone listening to the “Chapel Songs” album would experience a personal time of worship, reflection, and conversation with God.
It was written with a small church in mind, and for those worship leaders (or individuals) who were looking for a simple way to spend some quality time with their Maker. You have been based in Philadelphia for most of your career. How has the city influenced your music?
I think the environment contributes to a person’s view of the world. So growing up near and about a large city made for some wonderful opportunities as a young and developing creative. There’s no doubt that the music scene I grew up in has embedded its roots in me. I feel fortunate about that. What advice do you have for aspiring Christian musicians and songwriters?
My advice would be to develop your voice, and your musical style, and be bold about it. Don’t worry about fitting in. God created you to be an individual, and it’s to that purpose that he wants you to contribute throughout your life. www.eddymann.com
Bill Abernathy is an acclaimed singer-songwriter who recently released his highly-anticipated single, “Call Their Name.” This powerful and heart-touching track showcases Abernathy’s signature storytelling style and heartfelt lyrics.
Inspired by a special encounter with a man distributing backpacks to the homeless in his hometown of Kansas City, Abernathy urges listeners to see and acknowledge the homeless as individuals with needs and dreams. With his previous hit, “Hide Away,” reaching impressive chart positions, Abernathy continues to solidify his position as a beloved artist in the music industry.
Bill took time out to answer some questions for us in the exclusive one-on-one…
What inspired you to become a folk/American singer-songwriter?
The first concert I ever attended was in 1972, I think. The ticket was a birthday present from my brother for my 14th birthday. It was Loggins and Messina, a great singer-songwriter duo that was very popular at the time.
They had just released their “Sittin’ In” album, which had so many great songs on it. Vahevala, Danny’s Song, House at Pooh Corner, and many more. I listened to that album incessantly and learned to play many of the songs.
The night of the concert, there was an issue with the band’s bus, so Loggins and Messina played the whole concert using only acoustic guitars with no band. Listening to the guitar work, the vocals, and the harmonies in such an intimate environment was perfect for me.
Hearing the stories behind the songs, well that is what hit home with me. From that moment on, I was locked into the singer-songwriter music of the era. I knew then if I got a chance to play the music I loved, it would be as close to that sound and genre as possible.
How has your hometown of Kansas City influenced your music?
Kansas City is a great music town. Interesting, but great. On any given night you can find Blues, Jazz, Rock, Folk, Country, and all things in between. I love going out and supporting the local musicians and hearing what they are doing with their music.
3. Your latest single, “Call Their Name,” was inspired by an encounter you had while walking your dog. Can you tell us more about that experience and how it influenced the song?
I call the River Market area in Kansas City my home. We’ve got quite a few folks here who currently don’t have to place to call home, and I’ve been fortunate to have made friends with some of them while walking my dog, WORF. They’ve seen WORF grow from a tiny ball of fur into the 65 lb. beast he is today. They always play with him, and he loves seeing them all every time we run across them in the park.
Right before Christmas last year, something really special happened that inspired me to write “Call Their Name.” I witnessed a man pushing a cart loaded with backpacks. He had packed them with essentials like gloves, hats, coats, and some food, and was handing them out to the homeless folks in the park.
All the folks were very grateful and excited to receive these practical and very useful gifts. As each backpack was opened, they sorted out the various items to share with their other homeless friends.
Their willingness to share with others in similar situations and knowing their friends’ needs was very touching and enlightening. They did not even think about hoarding their gifts but rather wanted to share them with those whom they knew needed them most.
There’s this one guy, Sam, who usually keeps to himself, sitting alone on a bench, just staring at the ground. When the backpackman approached Sam and said, “Merry Christmas, Sam,” the following interaction became the inspiration behind “Call Their Name”.
Sam stood up, looked the man in the eyes, and said, “Thank you, sir, this is the best Christmas present I’ve ever had.” The man replied, “Come on, Sam, it’s just some stuff to help, and we do this every year.”
But Sam had the most incredible and heart-touching response: “It’s not about the backpack and all the supplies, though I appreciate all of it. It’s about the fact that you know who I am. You saw me as a person, not just a homeless guy in the park. You knew my name, you remembered my name, and you called me by my name.”
That simple act of recognizing someone’s name can be so impactful and make such a difference. So, here’s all I ask from each of you regarding “Call Their Name.” It’s a challenge I’m putting out there for all of us. Let’s see homeless people as individuals with stories, feelings, needs, wants, and dreams.
Take a moment to think about how you can personally make a difference in their lives, whether it’s through acts of kindness, volunteering, or just lending a helping hand. We can all start with something as simple as “Calling Their Name.”
I saw Sam just the other day. He’s doing great! Sam now has a permanent place to stay, is working, and was very happy to see the WORF and I. Sam was wearing the coat and carrying a backpack he received that day. Small things can make so much difference!
Bill Abernathy’s Interview
Stream & Enjoy
Your previous single, “Hide Away,” reached #5 on the National Radio Hits AC and Country charts. How did it feel to have such a successful song?
When we decided “Hide Away” would be the first single off MORE, I was a little apprehensive. It’s more of an emotional introspective song with a pretty mellow acoustic intro and outro.
I was a little concerned that radio would not be a fan of it as it does not have the “pop” feel that seems to be prevalent today. I was proven wrong by Radio and Listeners as it climbed the charts and continues to do well to this day. I guess there are stations and people out there who are looking for a little more than the standard sound. That makes me feel good! Maybe I should release more songs like that.. wait.. I already have. Ha-ha
Your album “MORE” has been highly anticipated by your fans. What can they expect from this new release?
MORE is an album I’ve always wanted to make. As a singer-songwriter I think it’s important to put my emotions, thoughts, and opinions, into my music. I think the use of different musical genres is one way to cross that bridge. In this project, I use Rock and Roll, Yacht Rock, Adult Contemporary, Folk Rock, Americana, Country Rock, and Pure Acoustic styles of music.
My hope is the versatility and variability within MORE opens a bit of a window for folks to see different aspects of my personality, allowing me to share my thoughts the best way I know how.
Your music has been described as “heartfelt” and “powerful.” How do you ensure that your emotions come through in your songs?
WOW, that’s a tough question. I think to sit down and write, you have to have found some inspiration. Sometimes that inspiration comes from situations that you don’t know how to deal with or even talk about.
Writing is my way of saying things that are easier written than spoken. Jim Croce had a great line… “Even though the time was right all the words just came out wrong, so I’ll have to say I love you in a song”. I love that.
Words are powerful tools, and when I am dealing with something, someone, or some emotions I’m struggling to comprehend, writing is my way of “working the situation”.
I am a big fan of getting into nature and letting the peace help me clear my mind and focus on what I am trying to figure out. People laugh when I tell them I am going to “sit on a rock” for a while and just be. For me anyway, until I clear my mind, and focus, I can’t find the right words for what needs to be said.
I’ve found this process to be key in writing, particularly when I am writing about what may be considered powerful and heartfelt subjects. I’ve also found that Native American Flute music helps me to find that place in me when there is not a rock available. Yep, I am just an old hippie at heart.
7. Can you walk us through your songwriting process? Do you typically start with lyrics or music first?
Your previous album, “Crossing Willow Creek,” earned you millions of global streams. How do you feel about the international reception of your music?
Well, it’s cool. When folks like what I do it’s a great feeling. When folks relate to what I’ve written, it’s a fantastic feeling. When someone listens, smiles, cries, thinks, or just feels better for those 3-4 minutes, then it’s all worthwhile. I’m lucky that so many folks have shared those experiences with me.
In addition to your music, you are also known for your philanthropy work. Can you tell us more about your involvement with charities and causes?
I’ve been blessed throughout my life to be able to help a few folks out along the way. There are so many good organizations that have the right idea and the right execution of their mission statements. I support a few of these. I also support youth organizations that are helping kids get a good start in life. I’ve done several charity concerts over the years to help youth organizations with their funding.
That said, one of the things I focus on is based on my song “Call Their Name”. It’s amazing how much impact you can have by a simple one-on-one interaction with someone who needs a little help. It does not have to be much, a bottle of water, a lunch, a coat, a new pair of gloves, or just a conversation to help understand their situation. Imagine if you will that everyone who could helped one person each day, what the world would be like. Imagine…
What’s next for Bill Abernathy? Any upcoming projects or tours that your fans should be on the lookout for?
Right now we are really focusing on the “MORE” album and getting it out there for folks to listen to. So far, it’s going exceptionally well. There could be a tour this year if things continue to go well.
As a singer songwriter it’s not like writing, ideas, and inspiration just stop, so I continue to write, and we will see where that leads. I’ll go find me a rock and some Native American Flute music, and we shall see what can happen…
Harry Kappen is a Dutch singer-songwriter and music therapist who has been breaking ground on the international radio and sales charts with his unique blend of pop, rock, and acoustic music.
His lyrics are always thought-inducing, while the melodies are not your everyday cliched sound. His latest single, “One Life” has received incredible critical acclaim. He took time to answer a few questions for us in this exclusive…
Congratulations on your recent hit single, “One Life”! Can you tell us more about the the inspiration behind this emotional ballad? ‘One Life’ was created after 3 other singles, which were a bit more socially critical. I needed a song that would bring me a little closer to myself; my need to put human relationships back at the center instead of talking about war, AI, climate change, and so on.
The love I feel for my girlfriend especially helped. Your music style is eclectic, ranging from ballads to rock and funk.
How do you find ways to Incorporate different genres into your music? I’m not purposefully looking for it. It comes as it comes. It will have a lot to do with my musical baggage, consisting of many different types of good music close to my heart.
From classical to hard rock, from Bach to Prince. You’ve had a successful year with over 140,000 hits for “Not All of Us Agreed” and over 220,000 hits for “The Freedom Inside” on Spotify. How do you feel about the positive response to your music? I’m enjoying it of course and I’m feeling very grateful.
Not only for the many listeners but also for the guidance by MTSmanagementgroup; Michael Stover is a great manager. And it stimulates me to go on. The next album will be even better than the previous ones.
As a music therapist, you have a unique perspective on the healing power of music. How does your work as a therapist influence your songwriting and music production? Many people ask me this, but it doesn’t. It’s the other way around. Being a musician for so many years influenced my work as a therapist.
As a musician I learned to play in harmony, to work together, to tune in to others, to express my feelings, and to structure my thoughts. Music does that naturally with the properties it has. And I use that as a tool in the therapies. You’ve mentioned David Bowie, Paul McCartney, and Prince as your musical inspirations. Is there a specific album or song from these artists that has significantly impacted your music career? I love David Bowie’s ‘Where Are We Now?’, I love Paul McCartney’s ‘Jenny Wren’, and love ‘Sometimes It Snows in April’ by Prince. ‘Pyramid Song’ by Radiohead, ‘The Golden Core’ by Motorpsycho, ‘Undo’ by Bjork, ‘Kashmir’ by Led Zeppelin.
‘Songs in the Key of Life’ by Stevie Wonder, ‘Overtime’ by Knower….etc.. ah. there is so much more. For me, the most important indicator of a good song is still whether I get goosebumps or not.
Coghive interview with Singer-Songwriter and Music Therapist HarryKappen
Stream & Enjoy
Your upcoming album, “One Life,” is set to be released early next year. Can you tease any details about what listeners can expect from this new project? It will be an eclectic album again with 11 or 12 songs. Of course with the single ‘One Life’ and for the rest a collection from Balad to Rock and from Funk to contemporary pop songs.
And musically it will not be limited to the 4 chords that you hear so much in today’s pop charts (in my opinion often not very original). In addition to being a musician, you also work as a lecturer at an international master’s degree in music therapy.
How do you balance your music career and teaching? They can coexist just fine if I manage my time well. I get a lot of energy from teaching motivated students, but just as much from the mostly young adults I give therapy. As long as I enjoy what I do, everything can be combined without problems. Your music has been described as “heartbreaking” and “contemplative”. Do you actively try to evoke certain emotions in your listeners through your music? No, I don’t make music with ‘premeditation’.
I let myself be guided by what comes to mind, sometimes reacting to the news or a current discussion. If there are listeners who like that, that’s a bonus, but it’s not a goal of mine. You’ve played in numerous bands and have even worked as a producer for other artists. How has your experience collaborating with different musicians influenced your solo work? Of course, I learned a lot from working with others; other musicians, producers, and engineers. I learned much from working with my sister Hanneke and friend/drummer Hajo. For example, it is about Not being satisfied with what you do too quickly, staying critical of yourself and wondering if there are better alternatives, and taking a step back from your work now and then so that you can listen again with fresh ears. Being accurate. What has been the most memorable moment of your music career so far? I find all the moments when songs fall together like a puzzle piece during the creative process memorable. I always think that’s a magical moment.
Another memorable moment of last year was when I was featured in a music magazine with an interview with Dolly Parton on the front page! As a simple Dutch musician, I thought that was memorable :).
Fusing elements of rock and funk, this upbeat and groovy track delivers not only the standard of quality we expect from the band but also the promise of a fun and infectious listening experience.
From the first notes of the song’s killer bassline, “Rock for a Heart” sets the stage for a dynamic and enjoyable rock experience. The instrumentation, characterized by punchy guitar riffs and a rhythm section demanding attention, showcases the band’s musical prowess and ability to blend genres seamlessly.
However, what sets this track apart is its narrative. “Rock for a Heart” tells the story of personal growth and the transformative power of love, as the protagonist struggles with an unapproachable demeanor and a “rock for a heart.” It is a relatable theme, and the lyrics convey the frustration and isolation of the protagonist very well.
But things take a hopeful turn as the protagonist finds a woman who breaks through the metaphorical rock and allows love to penetrate.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of transformation and growth, as the singer discovers a newfound warmth and connection through this relationship. This positive shift is reflected in the bright and cheery instrumentation, mirroring the emotional transformation of the protagonist.
The production of “Rock for a Heart” is clean and sparse, allowing each instrument to shine and create a balanced sonic landscape.
The infectious energy of the track is enhanced by the tight production, making it a song that is tailor-made for both casual listeners and avid rock enthusiasts. In conclusion, “Rock for a Heart” is not just a fun rock track, but a compelling and engaging piece of storytelling.
Ludlow Creek has struck a perfect balance between musicality and narrative, making this single a joy to listen to and resonating on an emotional level. With the promise of a new album on the horizon, fans can expect more exceptional tracks like this from the band.
Pamela Hopkins’ latest single, “Walk of Honor,” is a powerful and emotionally charged ballad that delves into the complexities of organ donation and drunk driving. With her trademark Americana sound, Hopkins weaves a heartbreaking narrative that tugs at the heartstrings and leaves a lasting impact on the listener.
The song opens with a somber and reflective tone, setting the stage for the emotional journey that is about to unfold. Hopkins’ vocals, raw with emotion, deliver the poignant lyrics with a sense of vulnerability and authenticity.
As the story progresses, the listener is drawn into the heart-wrenching tale of a mother who must say goodbye to her daughter and honor her final wish to become an organ donor.
Pamela Hopkins Surprises on Latest Single “Walk of Honor”
Stream & Enjoy
But it’s the unexpected twist in the story that adds a layer of complexity to “Walk of Honor.” The revelation that the recipient of the organs is the very person responsible for the accident introduces a profound sense of irony and raises moral questions about forgiveness. Hopkins masterfully navigates these themes through her lyrics and vocals, leaving the listener grappling with the complexities and emotions of the narrative.
The production of the song is understated and allows the narrative to take center stage. The use of acoustic elements and subtle twang add to the Americana vibe and create an intimate atmosphere that draws the listener in.
The stripped-down arrangement also highlights the emotional depth of the lyrics, making it impossible not to feel the weight of the story.Overall, “Walk of Honor” is a masterful display of storytelling and musicianship from Pamela Hopkins.
The raw emotion, thought-provoking themes, and powerful vocals make it a standout in the world of Americana music. And with its timely message about the importance of organ donation and the devastating consequences of drunk driving, this single not only entertains but also educates and inspires.
Red Street Publishing inks deal with seasoned hitmaker Brian White at the Red Street offices on Music Row. White brings a star-studded career in both artistry and songwriting to a powerhouse roster which includes Jason Crabb, Carl Cartee, Don Koch, Iveth Luna, Kevin Rooney, Cade Thompson and the Ward Brothers. White shares, “I’m beyond grateful to be a part of the Red Street family.
They have put together an amazing team and I’m excited about the opportunity to work together with them. I have a lot of musical history with both Jay and Don and I’m looking forward to adding to our story!”
With over four hundred cuts to date including sixteen #1s, Brian White is responsible for hits like Michael English’s “Holding Out Hope To You,” and The Martin’s “The Promise,” both of which took home a Dove Award for Song Of The Year, as well as multiple Country knockouts like SESAC Country Song of The Year “Watching You” recorded by Rodney Atkins and Jason Aldean’s #1 song “Blame It On You.”
Coupled with a fifteen year career as a touring artist with the band “Brian White & Justice,” White has carved out a name for himself in the publishing world with songs that have been recorded by Christian artists like We Are Messengers, Ben Fuller, Consumed By Fire, Danny Gokey, Kutless, 7eventh Time Down, Avalon, Point of Grace, Mandisa, 4 Him, Larnelle Harris, Karyn Williams, Selah and many more.
Brian has also gained major success in the Country and Pop markets with cuts by artists like Rascal Flatts, Trace Adkins, Jason Aldean, Gary Allan, Rodney Atkins, The Swon Brothers, Steve Holy, Earl Scruggs, Terri Clark, Kix Brooks and Blackhawk. Red Street’s EVP of Publishing/A&R Don Koch shares, “Brian and I grew up as writers together in the mid 80’s. He has become one of the few in Nashville who write Christian and country music equally well. I am proud to have him as a part of our red street writing team.”
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) closed 2023 with an armful of new gold and platinum certifications. Among those new awards was a first-time certification for the Rance Allen Group’s classic track “Something About the Name Jesus” (Tyscot Records), which was certified gold for 500,000 sales on December 27, 2023. The song hails from the legendary gospel group’s 2004 GRAMMY Award nominated album, The Live Experience (Tyscot Records).
Rance Allen’s brothers Steve and Tom Allen; longtime producer, Chris Byrd; and Murdella Wallace sister of the group’s longtime road manager, Cecilia Wallace) recently accepted the gold plaques during a Sunday morning service at the New Bethel Bountiful Blessings church in Toledo, OH where Allen was the pastor for from 1985 until his sudden death on October 31, 2020.
“Something About the Name Jesus” was written by Kirk Franklin with Rance Allen in mind. It was originally featured on Franklin’s 1998, The Nu Nation Project, that featured the megahits “Revolution” and “Lovely Day.”
That studio version featured Allen performing the tune alongside Isaac Carree and Lowell Pye. After a few years passed, the Rance Allen Group invited Franklin to open their own live rendition of the song which became just as big as the original version.
“Kirk was the artist of that time when he called and asked me to sing,” Allen recalled in a 2010 interview. “I had already decided that I wasn’t going to sing on anybody else’s project. When he called, I all of a sudden had a change of mind and said to myself, `Let me see what song he has for me.’ So, he sent me the song, `Something About The Name Jesus.’ When he sent it to me, the song didn’t have any verses. So, I’m listening to the chorus line, and I got back with him and said, `It doesn’t have any verses.’ He said he’d write them when I got there and that’s when he wrote the verses. So just like with “Miracle Worker,” the audience demands that we sing that in every show.”
The Rance Allen Group has earned five GRAMMY Award nominations and amassed over 250 million digital streams during its six-decade career. They started with Stax Record’s Gospel Truth imprint circa 1972 with soulful message songs such as “Ain’t No Need in Crying’” and “Lyin’ on the Truth.” They also had six R&B chart singles, including the 1979 Top 25 gem, “I Belong to You.”
From the 1980s on, Allen mixed music with ministry as he became a pastor in the Church of God in Christ denomination. The group reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart in 1992 with the album, Phenomenon, which featured the radio smash, “Miracle Worker.” In 2002, they signed to Tyscot Records where they have enjoyed hits such as “Do Your Will,” “Closest Friend,’ “You That I Trust,” and “Something About the Name Jesus.”
Singer-songwriter HeIsTheArtist will release his newest EP, “Dreaming In Emerald City (Wicked Deluxe Edition)” on Valentine’s Day, February 14th, 2024. This EP is a collection of remixes from his critically acclaimed tribute to the legendary movies “The Wizard of Oz” and “The West Side Story,” with a modern twist.
“Dreaming In Emerald City (Wicked Deluxe Edition)” contains all the songs from the original EP, as well as an additional track inspired by the 1989 movie “Teen Witch”. The EP features a mix of Broadway-style vocals and neo-soul elements, showcasing HeIsTheArtist’s unique sound.
The EP begins with a vintage cinematic cover of Judy Garland’s “I’m Always Chasing Rainbows” and HeIsTheArtist’s original song “Mi Amor,” which pays homage to “The Wizard of Oz” and “The West Side Story.” These songs also introduce the overarching theme of the EP – showing empathy towards those who wish for a different life.
The following tracks, covers of “Lovin’ You” by Minnie Riperton and “I Believe in You and Me” by Whitney Houston, focus on the theme of finding love right where you are, despite others’ opinions. These songs are a reminder to embrace love in all its forms.
The EP concludes with covers of “Diamonds” by Rihanna and “Brown Skin” by India. Arie, promotes the message of self-love and breaking beauty standards. These songs are a powerful reminder to embrace and love ourselves, regardless of societal norms.
“Dreaming In Emerald City (Wicked Deluxe Edition)” also includes two 80s-inspired remixes of HeIsTheArtist’s original song “Mi Amor,” including the latest single, “Mi Amor (City Pop Remix.)”
The original EP gained attention and success upon its release, with “Mi Amor” reaching #2 on the UK iTunes R&B charts and “I Believe in You and Me” reaching #9 on the UK iTunes R&B charts. The Wicked Deluxe Edition promises to be an even bigger success with the added tracks and remixes.
