Jim Huddleston’s latest EP, “Gospel Outlaw,” takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through the rolling landscapes of country and Americana music, weaving tales of a simple and grounded Western life. The EP is a collection of authentic and immersive songs that paint vivid pictures of Huddleston’s storytelling prowess, with each track contributing to the overall atmosphere of a bygone era.

Songs like “Little Hope Baptist Church,” set the tone for the project, with its rolling country melodies and Huddleston’s twang-infused vocals. The track transports listeners to a small town where the heartbeat is the local church. The imagery is rich and evocative, creating an immersive effect that pulls the audience into the fabric of Huddleston’s storytelling.

Other tracks like “God’s the Only Law (In This Here Town),” further solidify the Western atmosphere that permeates “Gospel Outlaw.” This song, with its timeless country sound, paints a picture of a town where a higher power guides the moral compass.

The narrative unfolds with a sense of reverence, and Huddleston’s vocals bring an authenticity that makes the listener feel like they’re there, absorbing the tales of this outlaw town.

Jim Huddleston – Gospel Outlaw EP Review

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As the EP progresses, “Heaven on My Mind” and “I’ll Be Gone” delve into more personal aspects of Jim Huddleston’s experiences and ideas. These songs, rooted in the Americana tradition, showcase Huddleston’s versatility as a storyteller.

The narratives are introspective, offering a glimpse into the artist’s journey and reflections. The instrumentals, adorned with a touch of Americana flair, complement the heartfelt lyrics well.

One of the strengths of “Gospel Outlaw” lies in its commitment to a laid-back, simplistic, and honest feel. The production remains intentionally sparse, allowing each instrument and Huddleston’s vocals to breathe.

This decision enhances the EP’s overall authenticity, creating an intimate connection between the artist and the listener. The stripped-down arrangements contribute to the timeless quality of the music.

The EP’s closer track, “Say Hello (to a New Uplifted Heart),” brings the collection to a fitting close. The song encapsulates the spirit of the entire EP, marrying the outlaw theme with gospel undertones. It also serves as a goodbye to the EP as a whole, as well as representing Jim Huddleston’s farewell to the story and world of the project, and a reintroduction to himself once more.

In conclusion, Jim Huddleston’s “Gospel Outlaw” is a triumph of traditional country storytelling, offering a glimpse into a world where simplicity, authenticity, and honesty reign supreme. The EP’s immersive atmosphere showcases Huddlestone’s ability to transport listeners to a different time and place. With its sparse production and timeless sound, “Gospel Outlaw” is a testament to the enduring power of genuine Americana.

–Jason Airy

The connection between an artist and their fans is something special, and artists like Gary Pratt know that to be true. His latest single, “Number One Fan,” is a vibrant and energetic country tune that tells the heartwarming story of an artist and his devoted supporter. The song unfolds as a celebration of the special bond between the musician and their fan, so let’s get into the full review.

 From the first notes of the song, it’s clear that “Number One Fan” is all about the narrative. The musical arrangement is kept relatively simple, allowing the focus to remain on the storytelling. This decision proves effective as it places the spotlight squarely on Gary Pratt’s lively and spirited delivery. His vocals are infused with genuine enthusiasm, capturing the essence of the song’s uplifting message.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the dedicated fan who is always there, soaking in the music and radiating positivity. The artist draws strength from this unwavering support, and the song becomes a heartfelt ode to the power of a loyal fan’s presence. The simplicity of the musical composition enhances the relatability of the narrative, allowing listeners to connect with the universal theme of finding strength and joy in the support of others.

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The song is a celebration of the positive energy that comes from having someone who believes in you wholeheartedly. Gary Pratt’s delivery reflects this sentiment, infusing the track with a contagious sense of fun and joy. The upbeat tempo and lively instrumentation contribute to the overall light-hearted atmosphere, making it a perfect anthem for fans and artists alike.

The production of the single further amplifies its energetic and fun vibe. The arrangement is well-balanced, with each element contributing to the overall feel-good atmosphere of the song. The instrumentation, while relatively simple, is catchy and memorable. The lively beats and playful melodies keep the song moving forward, ensuring that listeners are carried along on a musical journey filled with positivity and enthusiasm.

As the song progresses, the artist expresses a desire for more with his number one fan, hinting at a potential romantic connection. This adds a layer of depth to the storyline, introducing a bittersweet element that resonates with listeners on a more personal level. Despite the potential complexities of mixing romance with fandom, the overall tone of the song remains optimistic and lighthearted.

In conclusion, Gary Pratt’s “Number One Fan” is a delightful and infectious country tune that celebrates the special connection between an artist and their most devoted supporter. The song’s simplicity allows the narrative to take center stage, with Pratt’s energetic delivery and the buoyant production ensuring a thoroughly enjoyable listening experience. It’s a fun number from Gary Pratt, and a good addition to his discography.

4x Grammy Award-winning gospel music icon, Karen Clark Sheard, stopped by the Tamron Hall Show to talk about The Reunion Tour, her family legacy, her newest granddaughter Khloé-Drew Kelly, new music and more!

When asked about her granddaughter, she glows and describes Khloé-Drew as her “pride and joy right now”. She also discusses how her daughter, 4x Grammy-nominated artist Kierra Sheard is a “precious daughter” that is “so inspirational”.  She also credits her husband Bishop J. Drew Sheard as “the machine behind it all” and thanks God for blessing the Clark-Sheard family.

Hall also mentions the powerful legacy that Sheard has contributed to the music industry as a whole with fans including Beyonce, Jay-Z, Chloe Bailey, Halle Bailey, and Mariah Carey who references The Clark Sisters as her favorite group of all time!  Sheard smiles and says, “as long as you’re giving a positive message, we’re all about sharing a message in this messy age…so whatever somebody is going through, listen, you’ve got to know a Jesus and a great God that will keep your atmosphere in check!”

The segment was concluded by a soul stirring performance of her new single, “Send it Down” that is now currently available on all streaming platforms.

With the release of its cheery new song “Christmas In Hawaii,” We The Kingdom has partnered with the Kahākūkahi Foundation to donate a portion of proceeds to families affected by the tragic fires in Maui earlier this year, with every view of the song’s new video.

We The Kingdom is known for their genre-transcending ability to seamlessly fuse rock, country and gospel into their sonics. The band is made up of brothers Ed and Scott Cash, Ed’s son Martin Cash, and close family friend Andrew Bergthold. Band leader Ed Cash’s songs have been recorded by Amy Grant, NEEDTOBREATHE, Chris Tomlin and many others.

The No. 1 Billboard Top Christian Albums Imprint for three consecutive years, Centricity Music continues to reach significant milestones as its artists receive multiple RIAA Platinum and Gold Certifications and their songs reach the top of the radio charts this year.

“The RIAA had 57 artists release and earn first-time Gold or Platinum awards in 2023,” shares Centricity Music CEO Caren Seidle. “Remarkably, Centricity Music artists account for six of these awards, plus two additional Platinum certifications for Lauren Daigle! This is a testament to the creativity and the dedication of our team at Centricity and the undeniable talent of our artists.”

Two-time GRAMMY Award winner Lauren Daigle became the first artist to hold the No. 1 spot atop the Hot Christian Songs Chart for an astounding 20 weeks twice, most recently with “Thank God I Do” from her current, self-titled album, and with “You Say,” which is also now certified 6x-Platinum. Earning 2x Platinum for “Rescue,” garnering two GRAMMY Award nominations and receiving her twelfth GMA Dove Award, Daigle also gathered her eighth Billboard Music Award and topped five billion streams this year.

Named 2023’s Gospel Music Association New Artist of the Year, Katy Nichole earned her first Gold and Platinum certifications for her BMI Christian Award-winning single “In Jesus Name (God of Possible),” which also spent 20-weeks atop the Hot Christian Songs Chart. She further made her FOX & Friends debut this month, appeared for the second time on the Grand Ole Opry, garnered her third No. 1 radio hit with her Recording Academy-featured “Hold On,” and shared the stage on successful tours with Tauren Wells, Jordan Smith and CAIN. In January she joins Winter Jam ’24, Christian music’s biggest arena tour.

Pop recording artist and songwriter Jordan Feliz quickly became a household name when his first radio single “The River,” the title track from his critically-acclaimed debut, became a smash hit. Spending an unprecedented 12 weeks at No. 1, the chart-topping single was named ASCAP’s “Christian Music Song of the Year” and has now garnered Feliz his first Platinum certification. Feliz’s current Top 10 hit, “The King Is Alive,” is the first single from his fourth full-length album (title and release date TBA).

Along with Feliz, Nichole and Daigle Platinum awards, Unspoken, North Point Worshipand Jonny Diaz all received their first-ever Gold certifications. With over 350 million on-demand streams, 80 million YouTube video views and more than a dozen radio hits, Unspoken garnered its first Gold for the No. 1 radio hit “Start A Fire” from the band’s 2014 self-titled debut. Internationally known North Point Worship earned Gold for its worship anthem “Death Was Arrested” from the Nothing Ordinary EP while singer, songwriter Diaz’s Gold came for his radio single “Breathe” from the Everything Is Changing EP.

With its acclaimed roster honored with more New Artist of the Year GMA Dove Awards than any other label since 2013, Centricity Music is intentional about signing, developing and launching the best new talent the Christian music industry has to offer. This year, the label announced exclusive signings of Multi-Platinum songwriter and worship leader Mack Brock and soul-inspired pop singer/songwriter, worship leader and producer Natalie Layne. Additional artist signings will be revealed in the coming months.

5x GRAMMY nominee Matthew West is preparing to launch into the new year with new music! His new single “Don’t Stop Praying” is slated to arrive on January 5th. Tickets for a tour of the same name featuring Cochren & Co. are set to go on sale Thursday, December 14th at noon ET. Visit matthewwest.com/tour to learn more and to purchase tickets.

West shared the heart behind his new song on social media posting, “I hope when you hear this song you are reminded that God is listening when you call on His name. The Bible says in James 5:16, ‘The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.’ Your Father is with you.

He sees you, and He hears you. What are you praying for? Let me know in the comments so I can say a prayer for you.”

In the meantime, Matthew West invites you to ‘Come Home For Christmas’ with a concert special set to air on December 22 at 7 pm CT on TBN.

Filmed December 2 at Belmont’s Fisher Center in Nashville, TN, West performed a slew of classic holiday hits, his original tunes “Come Home For Christmas” and “Because of Bethlehem,” and was joined by his daughter, Lulu West, for a stunning duet of “Gloria in Excelsis Deo.”

When writing grounded, honest songs, Bill Abernathy sits comfortably as one of the best. The country artist has been at the forefront of the genre for a good while, his sincerity and songwriting coming through strong in his music. His latest single, “Call Their Name,” promises to be more of his best, so let’s take a closer look at it in our full review.

In the gentle strumming of acoustic strings and the warm timbre of Bill Abernathy’s voice, “Call Their Name” unfolds as a poignant and heartfelt exploration of human suffering. This new single, nestled within the realm of Americana, serves as a musical solace, inviting listeners to reflect on the plight of those facing adversity with a compassionate ear.

 From the opening chords, “Call Their Name” establishes a simple melody that instantly captures the essence of Abernathy’s signature sound. The predominantly acoustic arrangement sets a contemplative tone, creating a space where the lyrics take center stage. The simplicity of the instrumentation, adorned with delicate touches of harmonica and subtle percussion, allows the raw emotion of the song to resonate with the listener.

Bill Abernathy’s “Call Their Name” is an Empathetic Call to Action(Single Review)

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Abernathy’s storytelling prowess shines through in “Call Their Name.” The lyrics serve as a poignant call to action, urging listeners to recognize and empathize with the suffering of others. The song addresses the collective responsibility to acknowledge the struggles faced by individuals across the globe, reminding us that compassion can be a catalyst for positive change.

The beauty of Abernathy’s approach lies in its sincerity. His vocal delivery is both comforting and earnest, evoking a sense of camaraderie with the listener. The authenticity of his voice enhances the emotional impact of the lyrics, creating a connection that transcends the boundaries of the song itself.

As Abernathy sings of pain, resilience, and the human spirit, he does so with a genuine empathy that is both compelling and relatable.

“Call Their Name” unfolds like a musical meditation on empathy. The repeated refrain of “call their name,” becomes a mantra that resonates with the listener. The restrained yet emotive instrumentals provide moments of reflection, allowing the listener to absorb the weight of the song’s message.

The song’s unhurried pace contributes to its contemplative atmosphere, creating a sonic space for introspection. Production is kept sparse outside of its booming sound, fitting the tone
of the song.

As “Call Their Name” reaches its conclusion, it leaves a lingering resonance—a call to action, an invitation to compassion. Abernathy’s ability to marry lyrical depth with musical simplicity results in a song that is both accessible and profound.

In a world filled with noise, “Call Their Name” stands as a reminder of the power of music to amplify voices that often go unheard. If you’re a fan of Americana, this is one you don’t wanna miss!

Iconic multi-platinum, singer and songwriter Michael W. Smith appeared on ‘Fox & Friends recently. He performed “Silent Night” on the All-American Christmas Concert Series. The song is featured on Smith’s new Christmas full-length album Every Christmas.

Every Christmas includes 6 songs from his 2022 EP “Christmas At Home” woven together with 6 new songs that wrap this nostalgic, family-focused project into a beautiful completion.

The beloved Christian music group, Newsboys, is gearing up for an exciting 2024 tour. The band recently unveiled plans for the ‘Worldwide Revival Nights’ Tour. The tour is set to kick off in Versailles, OH on January 20th and run through at least April 28th with a stop in Fairfax, VA.

Nine-time GRAMMY nominated artist Natalie Grant has announced a special 8-city tour planned for the spring of 2024. ‘An Evening with Natalie Grant featuring Bernie Herms’ kicks off in Fort Lauderdale on February 22, as the artist will once again be joined by her husband, Bernie Herms, as they bring their living room to audiences across the US, featuring a special evening of stories and songs. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit nataliegrant.com/tour.