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.

GRAMMY nominated artist, Joseph Habedank, is excited to announce his 2024 Winter Tour.  Kicking off January 4^th in Kingsport, TN, the tour will make stops in eleven states, including Virginia, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas and many more!

The 2024 Winter Tour will feature brand new music from the singer/songwriter’s upcoming studio album, which is slated to release Spring of 2024, as well as well-known classics that audiences across the country have come to know and love. Attendees can expect to hear the dynamic vocals coupled with deep, theologically rich lyrics that have become a signature of the Dove Award winning artist.

At select dates, Joseph will also be joined on stage by Lindsay Habedank for a special question and answer session where audiences can learn more about their lives, families and ministry.

The 2024 Winter Tour is sponsored in part by Destiny Rescue, a special organization that works diligently to save children from trafficking and exploitation around the world through rescue and reintegration programs.  At each of the tour dates, audiences will have the opportunity to learn more about this ministry and how they can make a difference in the lives of these precious children.

Make plans now to attend Joseph Habedank’s 2024 Winter Tour at a city near you, as this tour will only make a stop in these markets once this year.

Joseph Habedank 2024 Winter Tour Dates
January 4 – Kingsport, TN
January 5 – Waynesboro, VA
January 6 – Petersburg, VA
January 7 – Goldsboro, NC
January 13 – Boaz, AL
January 14 – Savannah, TN
January 15 – Marietta, GA
January 25 – Pitkin, LA
January 26 – Freeport, TX
January 27 – Edna TX
January 28 – Longview, TX
February 9 – Wimauma, FL
February 10 – Jacksonville, FL
February 11 – Sycamore, GA
February 15 – Waynesville, OH
February 16 – Louisville, KY
February 17 – Shelbyville, TN
February 18 – South Fulton, TN
February 23 – Lenoir City, TN
February 24 – Belton, SC
February 25 – Blacksburg, SC

Last night, Amy Grant and Vince Gill celebrated their 100^th show at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium as part of their sold-out 2023 “Christmas at the Ryman” residency. This achievement also makes Grant and Gill the first artists to headline 100 shows at the Ryman. Grammy-nominated stand-up comedian and Nashville native Nate Bargatze surprised the duo on stage with a Hatch Show Print commemorating the 12-show run and centennial milestone.

Since the first show in 2008, “Christmas at the Ryman” has become one of Music City’s most treasured traditions, with fans from across the country and worldwide flocking to the historic venue to take in the holiday sounds of two of Nashville’s most cherished performers. Over the years, the husband-and-wife duo has filled the show with Christmas favorites such as “Let It Snow,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Tennessee Christmas,” “O Holy Night,” and “O Come All Ye Faithful.”

GRAMMY Award winner Lauren Daigle appeared on NBC’s The Kelly Clarkson Show this week. Daigle talked about her biggest musical influences growing up and participated in a fun music pop quiz.

Home for the Holidays: A Christmas Homecoming – Sunday, December 24th at 3 p.m. ET

Get ready to ring in the holidays with Bill & Gloria Gaither and all of their Homecoming friends on Home for the Holidays: A Christmas Homecoming! Sit back and listen to an array of Christmas standards, nostalgic seasonal favorites, and power-packed anthems. This timeless recording features the powerful voices you have grown to love during the most wonderful time of the year.

Featuring Gospel Music Hall of Fame Members Gaither Vocal Band singing “Home for the Holidays,” multi-platinum-selling recording artist Josh Turner’s rendition of “Joy to the World,” award-winning singer/songwriter Mark Lowry’s performance of “Mary, Did You Know?,” DOVE Award-winning musical artist Lynda Randle & brother Michael Tait’s lively cover of “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” the unparalleled tenor voice of David Phelps’ moving edition of “O Holy Night,” and many more of your friends from the Homecoming Family of artists, “Home for the Holidays: A Christmas Homecoming” is sure to usher you into the holiday season of joy and love.