Category: NEWS

[News] Kelontae Gavin Ties The Knot

Congratulations to Kelontae Gavin and Nieyana Dixon, who tied the knot earlier this month. Gavin shared on social media that they were wed at a civil ceremony on January 13th in the company of their parents and closest relatives, with a formal ceremony and reception to follow.

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Micah Tyler To Perform Underground In The Caverns World-Famous Cave Venue On August 30

From small-town youth pastor to celebrated Contemporary Christian recording artist, Micah Tyler’s remarkable journey has been marked by faith, resilience, and a commitment to glorify God through his “battle-tested” music. On Friday, August 30th, Micah will light up the enchanting depths of The Caverns world-famous underground concert hall in Grundy County, TN.

“I’ve played a lot of interesting venues over the years, but this is a first,” says Micah Tyler. “I’m playing a show inside an actual CAVE!”

Also reverberating through the underground on August 30th will be the vibrant and distinctive pop sound of Austin French and the joy-fueled, high-energy harmonies of Caleb & John.

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Tickets for this intimate, subterranean concert are on sale now at TheCaverns.com, including VIP Yurt Packages which provide guests with accommodations in a climate-controlled, luxury yurt in The Caverns’ yurt village as well as commemorative merchandise and more. Additionally, Car & RV Camping Passes and VIP Parking Passes are available.

Nestled in Payne’s Cove in Grundy County at the foot of the Cumberland Plateau, The Caverns is a truly unique concert destination beneath the Earth’s surface. Blessed with impressive natural acoustics and surrounded by otherworldly beauty, The Caverns attracts guests from across the country and around the globe who journey to rural Tennessee to revel in the experience of live music within a captivating cave setting.

Fans are encouraged to get their tickets early for what promises to be a memorable night of uplifting music underground.

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Colton Dixon & Jordan Feliz Announce Return Of “The Love & Light Tour”

Award-winning artists Colton Dixon and Jordan Feliz have announced the return of “The Love & Light Tour” this spring!  Kicking off March 1st in Marion, IL., the tour will hit U.S. over 22 cities (full tour routing is listed below). 

Dixon will also be making a cameo appearance on Great American Family network’s first original series, “County Rescue,” which premiers on Great American Pure Flix (streaming) on February 16 and on Great American Family on February 17th.  Dixon is featured in Episode 3, which will premiere on Great American Pure Flix on March 1st and Great American Family the next day.

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2023 was a landmark year for Dixon. He saw his massive No. 1 hit “Build A Boat” receive nominations for both a K-LOVE Fan Award and GMA Dove Award for Song of the Year, released his bestselling 7-song CANVAS EP featuring the top ten single, “My Light,”  performed on FOX & Friends and The Kelly Clarkson Show, gave a stunning performance of the National Anthem for The Kansas City Chiefs and had his biggest touring year ever, hitting over 120 U.S. cities.  Dixon is currently spending time in LA and Nashville working on new music.

“The Love & Light Tour”
3/1/24 – Marion, IL
3/2/24 – Nixa, MO
3/8/24 – North Syracuse, NY
3/9/24 – Edinboro, PA
3/14/24 – Seekonk, MA
3/15/24 – Hampden, MA
3/16/24 – Albany, NY
3/17/24 – Biddeford, ME
4/4/24 – Steelville, MO
4/5/24 – Greenville, TX
4/6/24 – Edinburg, TX
4/11/24 – Rochester, MN
4/12/24 – North Mankato, MN
4/13/24 – St. Cloud, MN
4/14/24 – Bemidji, MN
4/18/24 – Effingham, IL
4/19/24 – Waukesha, WI
4/20/24 – Ashland, OH
4/21/24 – Van Wert, OH
4/25/24 – Knoxville, TN
4/26/24 – White Pine, TN
4/27/24 – Huntsville, AL

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Limoblaze Featured In Upcoming Psalm City Music Festival

Psalm City Music Festival, announced today, is set to debut this Spring bringing a new gospel music experience to stages across the country. Featuring some of the most renowned gospel artists and psalmists from Africa & The Caribbean, the traveling festival will launch on Easter Sunday, March 31st, at the Smart Financial Center in Sugar Land, Texas. The second edition will take place on on April 6th at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC with more cities across the US to follow.

Uniting a global palette of gospel artists together on one stage, the lineup includes Nigerian acts Nathaniel Bassey, Pastor and leader of the global sensation ‘Hallelujah Challenge’, Moses Bliss, Limoblaze, and Jumbo Aniebiet. Also taking the stage will be Jamaican singer Chevelle Franklyn, Ghanaian vocalist Joe Mettle, Congolese composer Dena Mwana, as well as classical singers Joseph Oparamanuike and Miracle Amah.

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Psalm City Music Festival will bring together diverse cultures through the universal power of music and shared spirit of community. All are welcome to lift up their voices, hands, and hearts and join in prayer, dance, and divine blessings. Through powerful messages and an uplifting environment, Psalm City will push the boundaries of gospel music while strengthening faith.

Created by Duke Concept, Psalm City Music Festival is the latest new event series to join their 2024 roster. Duke Concept is an event production and management company based in New York with a mission to bring the best international talent to the US and beyond. Known for hosting some of the world’s premier Afrobeats stars like Burna Boy, Davido, Fireboy DML, Tems, and Wizkid, Duke Concept will branch into new sonic territory with Psalm City, while still celebrating the Afro-centric musicality.

Pre-Sale begins on Friday, January 19th at 10AM local time and ends Sunday, January 21st at 10PM local time. General On-Sale will follow on Monday, January 22nd at 10AM local time.

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Sean Rodriguez Enters New Era With “The Unbelievable”

A rising star readily embraced for his charismatic, high-octane performances that kept audiences on their feet during last year’s 40-city Winter Jam tour, Sean BE stands poised for a fresh season of music and ministry as Sean Rodriguez. The new moniker, a nod to Rodriguez’s family faith heritage, sets the stage for two highly anticipated singles from the WieRok Entertainment recording artist.

“Forty years ago, my grandfather, Pastor Rodriguez, started an inner-city church in Denver that has served as a light to the community and has helped guide people in need, both spiritually and physically,” Rodriguez shares. “His commitment and obedience to God are major reasons that I am who I am today, and I am positive that his relentless prayers kept me returning to God no matter what happened in my life. Bearing the Rodriguez name symbolizes my thankfulness for all he’s done for me, and all he’s done for God. It is my honor to carry on the ministry calling God began in my grandfather many years ago.”

theunbelievable

Opening Rodriguez’s new era is “The Unbelievable,” a worshipful pop anthem now available on streaming platforms. Co-penned by Rodriguez, Will Strotz, and Sidewalk Prophets’ Daniel Macal, the soaring track—also produced by Macal—celebrates God’s power to transform lives.

“Often our testimonies and life stories can seem hard to believe, but Ephesians 3:20 says that God ‘…is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine…’” Rodriguez explains. “Incredible things can become reality simply because we believe in the God Who can do the unbelievable. In the Bible, every great victory came from an impossible situation and faith in a God Who is greater. Whatever we are facing, the God of the unbelievable will make a way.”

On the heels of “The Unbelievable,” Rodriguez showcases his hip-hop influences with “Glory,” arriving January 26. Featuring vocal contributions from singer/songwriter Holly Halliwell and produced by Walter Halliwell, the track was written by Rodriguez along with Walter and Holly Halliwell.

A bold cadence and pulsing bassline underscore the message of “Glory,” which warns of the dangers of chasing adulation: “We like attention/We want eyes in our direction/We like the lights the numbers/In love with our own reflections/and it’s such a rush/It’s such a struggle/When our intentions end up bending what our God intended.”

“So much of the music we’re surrounded by these days is unapologetically created to glorify self, so we wanted to write a song instead declaring that God is the only One worthy of glory—and we are completely unapologetic about that,” Rodriguez states. “Ultimately, humans can’t handle the weight of the glory we desire. There is only One who gets the glory, God.”

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1K Phew Drops ‘Pray For Atlanta’ Collaboration With Zaytoven

1K Phew collaborative Album with Zaytoven, “Pray For Atlanta” is officially here! With appearances from Young Dro, Hunxho, Jekalyn Carr and more, this is the 2nd collaborative album 1K Phew has ever released, following the joint project he did with Lecrae in 2021, “No Church In A While.” This release also features an official music video for the focus track, “Let Go Let God.” Stream “Pray For Atlanta”

Following the release of his debut album, “As I Am” in 2022, 1K Phew is back with a bang this year releasing a collaborative project with the legendary Hip Hop producer Zaytoven, known for curating the signature sound of international superstars Gucci Mane, Future and the Migos. 1K Phew’s first collaboration with Zaytoven was with his breakout single, “Church Gone Wild” nearly 10 years ago making this album a full circle moment for the Atlanta based artists.

prayforatlanta

This collaboration was truly a match made in heaven considering their upbringings, both being raised in church and products of hip hop. PFA Is the perfect blend of Atlanta culture and the gospel, which speaks to the mission of the project being to contend for the city they know and love. “Doing the Album with Zaytoven is honestly unreal for me,” says 1K Phew. “I grew up being a fan of his watching him do these legendary projects with Atlanta icons like Gucci Mane and Future. So to know I’m now in the same company as those guys all while moving in my purpose and not compromising my mission is priceless to me. I feel like it’s really a testament to my growth since our first time connecting all those years ago.”

“Let Go Let God,” being the focus record for 1K Phew on this project, speaks to the ethos of “Pray For Atlanta” and carrying an infectious medley of hard hitting drums, unique sounds and a range of vocal expressions as Phew raps about letting go of control over his life and letting God lead the way. Directed by Jonny Clay from STUDIO!, a creative agency based in ATL, the video sees 1K Phew trapped in a digital world alone filled with darkness and violence as he chases after God.

It’s no secret if you’ve been listening to 1K Phew that he loves the city of Atlanta. Growing up in Lithonia, just east of the city, He has repped being an Atlanta native since the beginning. He gave fans a glimpse of his story growing up in the city through an album teaser trailer.

Stream Full Album below

1K Phew’s mission, having coined the term, “Gospel Rap,” is to create music that is authentically him and leads people to God. Stylistically he’s always stood out amongst the crowd bringing unique cadences, flows and flavor to every record he touches all the while sharing his story vulnerably and pointing people back to Christ.

With this latest release, 1K’s focus has been on challenging everyone listening to be a light in their city amidst darkness creeping into our world more and more. Born and raised in the city of Atlanta, 1K Phew has a unique experience to Atlanta and growing up in the church and the trap, it makes him the perfect person to speak to the people of Atlanta.

However, Phew isn’t naive to think that he can do this all on his own. “I may not be able to save Atlanta, but I’m for sure going to Pray For Atlanta…” he says. “I am not God and I’m not trying to act like I can save this city, but I do love this city and I hate to see darkness creep in. I know the One who can make a difference so I’m for sure going to point people to Him.”

Known for his catchy melodies and Atlanta Trap sound, 1k Phew is primed and ready to share this music with the world in hopes that not only Atlanta, but cities all of the world would be encouraged to act on the violence and darkness consuming our days through leaning on God and praying for change.

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Kim Gentry Meyer’s Debut Project ‘Herald’ Named One Of The Top 12 Albums Of 2023 By ‘Today’s Christian Entertainment’

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

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.

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Fair Trade Services Kicks Off 2024 With Two Promotions

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.”

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Eddy Mann – Interview

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

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Bill Abernathy’s Interview

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…

http://www.billabernathy.com/

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