Category: NEWS

Elevation Worship’s Song “Praise” Hits No. 1

GRAMMY® Award-winning group Elevation Worship tops the charts again with their hit song “Praise.” This week, the song hit No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Christian Songs.

“Praise” has had unmatched success since the original version featuring Brandon Lake, Chris Brown, and Chandler Moore was released on the group’s 2023 album, CAN YOU IMAGINE?. The song is tracking more than 5.3 million global weekly streams and tops the Christian/Gospel On-Demand Streaming chart.

Recently, Elevation Worship released the Praise EP featuring five different versions of “Praise.” At radio, the song is currently in the Top 20 on the Christian Airplay chart and Top 25 on the Christian AC chart.

Elevation Worship’s Song “Praise” Hits No. 1

Stream & Enjoy

https://youtube.com/watch?v=f2oxGYpuLkw%3Ffeature%3Doembed

Elevation Worship’s Chris Brown told Billboard, “It is such an honor to be No. 1 again. We’re blown away by what God has done with ‘Praise,’ and we’re thankful for everyone who has streamed, tuned in and shared the song. We hope it is a great reminder of all the reasons to praise God not just for what He’s done, but for who He is.”

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Elevation Worship also announced their Praise Party Summer Tour last week, a brand new tour with eight outdoor shows including New York City’s Central Park. Tickets will be available to the general public this Friday, March 15th.

This tour follows Elevation Nights’ sold-out run, which became one of the largest Christian tours in history, averaging more than 11,600 tickets sold each night. For more information on tour dates and tickets, visit ElevationWorship.com.

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Passion’s New Album Hits No. 2 On Billboard Chart; Fox & Friends Performance This Sunday

Call on Heaven, the new live album from Passion Music, has debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Top Christian & Gospel Albums chart this week. This project was also a Top 10 Debut Album in the US on Spotify while amassing more than 3.8M streams in the first week.

The new album features 14 live recordings captured at Passion 2024 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium with a sold-out attendance of more than 55,000 18-25-year-olds.

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Sharing from the new album, Passion was recently featured on GRAMMY’s Positive Vibes Only series with an exclusive performance of “He Who Is To Come. Watch the moving acoustic performance. Passion will also perform live in the studio on Fox & Friends this Sunday, March 17th as part of their “Faith & Friends” series. Tune in during the 9 am Eastern hour to watch their performance.

Passion’s New Album Hits No. 2 On Billboard Chart; Fox & Friends Performance This Sunday

Stream & Enjoy

https://youtube.com/watch?v=_L5aKNPaD10%3Ffeature%3Doembed

For more than two decades, the Passion movement has gathered students and leaders from across the nation and world to begin the new year with a singular purpose of glorifying God and uniting in worship, prayer, and spiritual awakening. This year’s conference had a unique and special atmosphere reflected on the new live-recorded album, Call on Heaven.

The project features the live version of “He Who Is To Come,” as well as the new song, “The Lord Will Provide,” and the stirring moment of worship captured with “Agnus Dei,” which has been viewed more than three million times since the Passion Conference.

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Jekalyn Carr Earns Eighth #1 Single With “Live Again” Performed By Kelontae Gavin

GRAMMY nominated and Stellar Award-winning, Jekalyn Carr, earns her eighth #1 single as a writer and producer with “Live Again” as performed by Kelontae Gavin. “Live Again” earns #1 status on the Billboard National Gospel Airplay Chart and Mediabase Gospel Airplay chart. “Live Again” is lifted from Kelontae Gavin’s current album, TESTIFY.

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The album, JEKALYN, is preceded by the Billboard Gospel National Airplay #1 single, “I Believe God,” and is available now wherever music is sold and streamed. 

JEKALYN, marks Carr’s first-full release in four years and features outstanding collaborations with Tauren Wells, Kierra Sheard, Papa San, Tim Bowman Jr., Kirk Franklin, Pastor Mike Jr., Mike Teezy, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Blanca and Elevation Rhythm. JEKALYN contains Carr’s seventh Billboard Gospel National Airplay #1 single, “I Believe God.” The brand new single, “You Carried Me” by Jekalyn Carr is impacting radio now.

Jekalyn Carr Earns Eighth #1 Single With “Live Again” Performed By Kelontae Gavin

Stream & Enjoy

https://youtube.com/watch?v=FP1SnmHHngM%3Ffeature%3Doembed

Jekalyn Carr recently received recognition from the city of South Fulton on behalf of Mayor Khalid Kamau, naming February 27th, “Jekalyn Carr Appreciation Day.” Currently, she can be seen on the One Hallelujah Tour, alongside Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Israel Houghton, Erica Campbell and Jonathan McReynolds.

Jekalyn Carr can also be heard during the midday on Radio One’s Atlanta affiliate Praise 102.5 as the host of her radio show “Jekalyn Carr Family Affair Show” which airs Monday-Friday 10am-3pm EST.

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Gospel Heritage Worship & Arts Summit Returns

The world-renowned Gospel Heritage Worship & Arts Summit will be returning after a brief hiatus at The River Church in Durham, NC May 16-18! This three-day intense gospel music industry bootcamp will provide aspiring gospel singers and musicians with the opportunity to learn from some of the industry’s leading professionals.

Originally founded by industry veteran Dr. Teresa Hairston-Jackson, this year’s workshop will be hosted by Gospel Heritage President and 7x Stellar Award-winning gospel artist, VaShawn Mitchell. This year’s summit is sure to be an epic experience unlike any other year prior.

This year’s special honorees include Dr. Judith McAllister, the group Men of Standard, and gospel music legend Pastor Shirley Caesar. Special guest speakers of the summit will also include Bishop William Murphy, Dr. Valerie Moore, and Bishop Ronald L. Godbee. 

Other special guests include Gospel Heritage Vice President Dr. John Paul McGee, Anthony Brown, Tonya Baker, Meachum Clarke, Pastor Ruth Ann Wynter, and Todd Garlberth.

Pastor Shirley Caesar, also known as “The First Lady of Gospel Music”, has won 11 Grammy Awards, 14 Stellar Awards and 15 GMA Dove Awards throughout her career and currently has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She has also released +40 albums, participated in over sixteen compilations and three musicals.

Dr. Judith McAllister is one of the gospel music industry’s most renowned praise and worship leaders.  She has released four albums, Send Judah First, Raise the Praise, In His Presence: Live!, and Sound the Trumpet. She also served as the President of the International Music Department of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) from 2009 to 2021.

Men of Standard is probably one of the most notable male groups of the gospel industry with two Stellar Award wins to their credit for “Group Duo of the Year” and “Contemporary Group/Duo of the Year for “Feels Like Rain”.

When asked about the return of Gospel Heritage, Mitchell says,”I’m so happy to be bringing back Gospel Heritage! Anyone who knows me, knows that I’m big on education and this workshop is the perfect opportunity to educate the next generation of worship leaders with impactful insights from the industry’s top heavy hitters.”

He continues, “This summit is for pastors, ministry leaders, worship leaders, dancers, musicians, and general worshippers that would like to grow in God and in business. So I’ve curated a list of impactful leaders to help empower the attendees and honor examples of some of the leaders who have excelled.”

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Terrian Featured On Grammy’s PVO & Will Appear On ‘Fox & Friends’ March 30

Gotee Records’ powerhouse vocalist Terrian continues to make waves since her full-length debut album, Give It Time, released earlier this year. This week she is featured on the Recording Academy’s Positive Vibes Only series with an exclusive acoustic performance of her song “He Sees You.”

Stream & Enjoy

https://youtube.com/watch?v=MTX9BRrYScY%3Ffeature%3Doembed

Terrian will also make her national television debut on Fox & Friends on March 30th in the studio. She will perform as part of Fox & Friends special series “Faith & Friends.” Since the release of her album, Terrian’s current radio single “Honestly, We Just Need Jesus” is already charting in the Top 20 on all five radio charts just four weeks after the official add date.

Next week, she will wrap up the “TobyMac Hits Deep Tour” with TobyMac and the Diverse City band featuring other artists Cory Asbury, Mac Powell, Tasha Layton and Gotee Records label-mate Jon Reddick. 

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Phil Wickham & Brandon Lake Announce Return Of ‘Summer Worship Nights’ Tour

Renowned singer, songwriter, worship leader Phil Wickham and GRAMMY Award-winning artist Brandon Lake will be hitting the road together again this summer! Their ‘Summer Worship Nights’ tour is back in August 2024 and features special guest Hulvey.

Pre-sale for the tour starts on March 22nd at 10am local time. Text “SUMMER” to (833) 884-4247 to get early access tickets.

SUMMER WORSHIP NIGHTS 2024 —
08.01 | DETROIT, MI
08.02 | COLUMBUS, OH
08.03 | LOUISVILLE, KY
08.04 | ATLANTA, GA
08.08 | HERSHEY, PA
08.09 | BOSTON, MA
08.10 | PHILADELPHIA, PA
08.11 | WASHINGTON, DC
08.15 | MILWAUKEE, WI
08.16 | ST. LOUIS, MO
08.17 | KANSAS CITY, MO
08.18 | DENVER, CO
08.22 | LOS ANGELES, CA
08.23 | OAKLAND, CA
08.24 | PORTLAND, OR
08.25 | SEATTLE, WA
08.28 | HONOLULU, HI* (Hulvey not appearing)

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BMI Celebrates The Best In Gospel At The 2024 BMI Trailblazers Of Gospel Music Awards

BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) will pay tribute to the songwriters and publishers behind the best in Gospel at the 2024 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards.

Gospel legend and world-renowned evangelist Dorinda Clark-Cole will receive the event’s highest honor as a Trailblazer of Gospel in recognition of her illustrious career spanning over 50 years and incomparable influence on the genre and beyond. 

Jonathan McReynolds will receive the BMI Champion Award for his exceptional artistry and impact on Gospel music, marking the first time this accolade has been presented at this ceremony.

The private event, hosted by BMI President & CEO Mike O’Neill and BMI Vice President, Creative, Atlanta Catherine Brewton, will also feature special guest performances.

The ceremony will salute the songwriters and publishers of the previous year’s 25 most-performed Gospel songs in the United States from BMI’s repertoire of more than 22.4 million musical works. BMI’s Gospel Song of the YearSongwriter of the Year and Publisher of the Year will also be named during the ceremony.

Expected attendees include Yolanda Adams, Jor’Dan Armstrong, Elijah Blake, Isaac Carree, Erica Campbell, DOE, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Zacardi Cortez, Kirk Franklin, Travis Greene, Charles Jenkins, Le’Andria Johnson, Donald Lawrence, Tamela and David Mann, Evvie McKinney, Jonathan McReynolds, Vashawn Mitchell, Juan Winans, and several others.

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Album Review: Lady Redneck “God So Loved the World”

Lady Redneck, also known as Stephanie Lee, brings a distinctive blend of country charm and spiritual grace to her music. Her album “God So Loved the World” is a reflection of this unique mix, offering listeners a journey through faith, love, and the trials and tribulations of life through the lens of country music. 

To truly grasp the essence of Lady Redneck’s musical and spiritual journey, “God So Loved the World” is indeed a splendid starting point. This album encapsulates her faith-driven narratives with a country twang that’s both authentic and engaging. 

Lady Redneck’s discography is known for its heartfelt storytelling and the ability to weave personal faith into relatable country music tales. This album, in particular, showcases her growth as an artist and her dedication to spreading messages of love and faith.

With chart-topping songs like “After The Rain, You’ll Find the Son,” “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing,” and “All Things” among the playlist, “God So Loved the World” (album) contains a total of 5 international iTunes hits, including 3 #1s!

1. **After the Rain, You’ll Find The Son (03:47)** – This track sets the tone for the album, embodying themes of hope and renewal. Its title suggests a play on words between “Son” referring to Jesus and the sun that follows a storm, illustrating how faith can guide one through difficult times.

2. **Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing (03:50)** – A rendition of a classic Christian hymn, this track likely showcases Lady Redneck’s ability to infuse traditional hymns with her unique country style, connecting deep-rooted faith with modern musical expressions.

3. **God So Loved The World (04:06)** – The titular track serves as the thematic centerpiece of the album, drawing directly from the well-known biblical verse John 3:16. This song emphasizes the core message of Christian faith—love and salvation.

4. **Tender Mercy (03:38)** – This track possibly explores themes of forgiveness and grace, key aspects of Christian teachings. Its title suggests a focus on the gentle, compassionate side of faith and God’s love.

5. **Perfect Love (02:51)** – A reflection on the concept of agape, or unconditional love, this track delves into the idea that perfect love casts out fear, a principle found in 1 John 4:18, encouraging listeners to embrace love over fear.

6. **It’s His Fight Too (02:52)** – This song reassures listeners that they are not alone in their struggles, emphasizing that God is with them in every battle they face. It’s about surrendering one’s worries and trusting in divine support.

7. **All Things (03:14)** – Inspired by the verse Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” this track offers an empowering message of faith and resilience.

8. **Pray For Peace (03:23)** – This song serves as a call to action for listeners to seek and pray for peace in their lives and the world. Its placement towards the album’s end reinforces the importance of peace as a core Christian value.

9. **You First Loved Me (03:05)** – This track emphasizes the foundational Christian belief that God’s love is the beginning of everything, inspiring a reciprocal love from believers.

Album Review: Lady Redneck “God So Loved the World”

Stream & Enjoy

Each track on “God So Loved the World” by Lady Redneck seems to offer a distinct perspective on faith, blending biblical references and personal insights with country music’s storytelling tradition. This album not only showcases her musical talents but also her deep-rooted faith and desire to spread messages of hope, love, and peace through her art.

Lady Redneck, beyond her music, is known for her vibrant personality and engagement with her fans. She often shares moments of her life and insights into her music-making process, creating a strong community around her work. Her active social media presence and participation in various music projects highlight her multifaceted career and interests.

Fans of Lady Redneck’s blend of country and spiritual music might also enjoy artists like Carrie Underwood, who similarly combines country music roots with faith-based themes, and Dolly Parton, whose extensive discography includes numerous gospel and spiritually uplifting tracks.

Lady Redneck’s “God So Loved the World” stands as a testament to her faith, artistry, and the unifying power of music that spans genres and touches hearts.

–John Collins

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Elevation Worship Announces Praise Part Summer 2024 Tour

Coming off the heels of their sold-out Elevation Nights run in February, GRAMMY® Award-winning Elevation Worship announces Praise Party, a brand new tour for the band with eight outdoor shows including New York City’s Central Park, which is part of a special summer concert series where the group will be the only Christian act. The tour also brings Elevation Worship to new cities including Boca Raton, Cincinnati, Gilford, and Milwaukee.

Tickets will be available to the general public on March 15th, and a special presale is happening on March 13th.

The sold-out run of Elevation Nights became one of the largest Christian tours in history, averaging more than 11,600 tickets sold each night. Part of that history-making tour included the last stop in Philadelphia where they sold more than 14,000 tickets – the most tickets sold by a Christian artist in that city in more than two decades.

Elevation Worship Praise Party 2024 Tour Dates

  • July 23 – Boca Raton, FL – Mizner Park Amphitheater
  • July 24 – Jacksonville, FL – Daily’s Place
  • July 27 – Cincinnati, OH – MegaCorp Pavilion
  • July 28 – Baltimore, MD – Pier Six Pavilion
  • July 30 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion
  • July 31 – New York, NY – SummerStage in Central Park
  • August 3 – Indianapolis, IN – Everwise Amphitheater
  • August 4 – Milwaukee, WI – BMO Pavilion

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Ellie Holcomb Announces New Album + Expanded Edition Of Devotional

Award-winning songwriter and bestselling author Ellie Holcomb will release a brand new Psalms project, All of My Days (Capitol CMG), on April 12th along with a new expanded limited edition of her bestselling devotional, Fighting Words (B&H Publishing,) on April 16th.

Holcomb’s new album, All of My Days, is a beautiful collection of curated Psalms that have personally carried her through difficult times as well as played an encouraging role in the lives of her listeners through her “Memory Mondays” where she sings Scripture verses to songs each week.

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Holcomb’s Fighting Words: Expanded Limited Edition features 10 bonus devotionals, new interior flourishes, and an extra art piece inside. Seven Psalms included in the expanded edition will have a song to accompany it from All of My Days. 

“I’ve always wanted to make a Psalms project,” shares Holcomb. “Singing Scripture has been equivalent to a physical act of burying seeds of hope and truth and light deep in my heart. The joy and comfort that come when those little melodies surface, especially during the dark or hard moments in my story, Scripture songs have been an encouragement for me over the years.”

She adds, “It is so humbling to hear how many have resonated with Fighting Words. I’m so delighted that we’re now sending out this extended version that includes so many of my ‘lifer’ verses. The book now feels like a stack of paper Ebenezers, little reminders of how God has deeply met and encouraged me through the Scriptures.”

Celebrating the upcoming releases of two very special projects, Ellie Holcomb was honored this week by her label and publisher for career achievements. Holcomb has surpassed more than 500,000 copies sold of her books (three children’s books and a devotional book) and has amassed more than 500 million career streams for her music.

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“We could not be more thrilled to celebrate Ellie’s remarkable publishing success,” shares Dr. Devin Maddox, Publisher, B&H Publishing Group. “With her bright hope, kind heart, incredible talent, and diligent work ethic, it’s no wonder readers feel so served by her various B&H books. We are grateful to partner with her as she shares God’s love with so many ​children and adults!”

“It takes a very special creative to accomplish what Ellie Holcomb has done as both a recording artist and an author. All of us at CCMG are so proud to work with her and congratulate her on these major career milestones,” says Brad O’Donnell, Co-President of CCMG.

“It is such an honor to be able to partner with Ellie”, adds CCMG Co-President Hudson Plachy. “We are so thrilled for all of her success as a songwriter, author and musician.”

Samantha Steele, COO of Triple 8 Management shares, “Working with Ellie Holcomb for over a decade now has been the joy of a lifetime and we’re overwhelmed by these milestones  – to have her books in so many homes and her songs in so many hearts is such a delight!”

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