CBS presents the 25^TH ANNUAL A HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS, an entertainment special featuring uplifting stories of adoption from foster care, Friday, Dec. 22 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT), on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+ (live and on demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)*.

Performances by extraordinary artists including Lauren Daigle, Gavin DeGraw, David Foster & Katharine McPhee, Pentatonix and CeCe Winans will enhance the inspirational adoption stories of several American families. Katharine McPhee also serves as host for the evening.

This year marks the 25^th anniversary of the special which raises awareness of this important social issue. For the last quarter century, the award-winning special has shined a light on the thousands of American children in foster care and has inspired tens of thousands of adoptions, moving these children into loving forever families.

Currently, there are close to 400,000 children in foster care in the U.S., more than a quarter of whom are hoping for a forever home.

These children lead difficult lives – only half graduate from high school, 5% graduate college and 20% become homeless soon after they age out of the system.

The child welfare system is sometimes described as the “highway to homelessness,” as nationwide 50% of the homeless population was once in foster care. Youth in foster care are resilient and have great potential to beat these odds. Given a home and a chance, these children can lead fulfilling, even extraordinary lives.

This year, in honor of the silver anniversary, the show revisits some of the amazing families featured in years past

This Christmas, share the joy of the Journey to Bethlehem, available on digital December 26, 2023 and on Blu-Ray and DVD January 16, 2024.

Synopsis:
A young woman carrying an unimaginable responsibility. A young man torn between love and honor. A jealous king who will stop at nothing to keep his crown. This live-action Christmas musical celebration for the entire family, weaves classic Christmas melodies with new pop songs in a music-infused retelling of the greatest story ever told, the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus. A unique new entry into the collection of holiday classic movies, this epic Christmas musical is unlike any before it.

SPECIAL FEATURES
DVD & BLU-RAY™ 

• Special Features
  • Meet Mary and Joseph
  • The Heart of The Journey to Bethlehem
  • Meet Fig
  • Meet Mary’s Sisters
  • Meet Antipater
  • Deleted Scenes: A Great Navigator
  • Deleted Scenes: Travel Montage
  • Deleted Scenes Joseph’s Catapult

Blu-ray and DVD include a digital code for movie and bonus materials as listed above, redeemable via Movies Anywhere for a limited time. Movies Anywhere is open to U.S. residents age 13+. Visit MoviesAnywhere.com for terms and conditions.

CAST AND CREW
Directed by: Adam Anders
Screenplay by: Adam Anders & Peter Barsocchini
Produced by: Brandt Andersen, Adam Anders, Ryan Busse, Stephen Meinen, Alan Powell, Steve Barnett
Executive Producers: Vicky Patel, Peter Barsocchini, Nikki Anders
Cast: Fiona Palomo, Milo Manheim, Antonio Banderas, Omid Djalili, Rizwan Manji, Geno Segers, MORIAH, Joel Smallbone, Lecrae, Stephanie Gil

Tickets are now on sale for Season 4 of The Chosen’s theatrical release, the first time all episodes of a full season of a TV series will debut exclusively in theaters. The official Season 4 trailer also premieres today:

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Season 4 Synopsis

Clashing kingdoms. Rival rulers. The enemies of Jesus close in while His followers struggle to keep up, leaving Him to carry the burden alone. Threatened by the reality of Jesus’ growing influence, religious leaders do the unthinkable—ally with their Roman oppressors. As the seeds of betrayal are planted and opposition to Jesus’ message turns violent, He’s left with no alternative but demand his followers RISE UP.

The theatrical rollout of Season 4 will begin with a two-week run of Episodes 1-3 on February 1, 2024, followed by Episodes 4-6 in theaters beginning February 15, and Episodes 7-8 beginning February 29 via Fathom Events in the U.S. and Canada.

The premiere episodes will also be released in theaters in LATAM, the UK, Poland, Australia, and New Zealand via a consortium of distributors. After the full-season run in theaters concludes, The Chosen will announce the debut across streaming and linear TV platforms, as well as The Chosen TV and mobile apps.

“Last year we dipped our toes in the water by releasing a few episodes in theaters. The response was so strong, and Season Four is so big, that we knew we and Fathom had to give viewers the theatrical experience for all eight episodes,” said The Chosen’s creator and director, Dallas Jenkins.

“We’re excited to make history with The Chosen,” said Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Events. “This collaboration has been such an amazing experience! Watching the fans come out in such large numbers to watch the story of Jesus on the big screen has been both informative and heartwarming. We look forward to bringing Season 4 to theaters so those fans can continue to share this story together.”

The Chosen has become a cultural phenomenon with impressive performance across streaming platforms such as Peacock, Netflix, and Amazon Prime where it is one of the platform’s top series of 2023. The Chosen also earned top ratings weekly domestically on The CW.

What began as a pioneering crowd-funded project has now evolved into a global sensation with over 770-million-episode views. Due to the efforts of the Come and See Foundation, The Chosen is on pace to be the most translated series in history, as the first three seasons will soon be available in 50 languages with plans to subtitle in more than 600.

Dallas Jenkins is writer, director, and producer. Lionsgate is the show’s global television distributor.

GRAMMY Award winner and current two-time GRAMMY nominee Lauren Daigle, whose “The Price Fund” has provided over $3.5 million to charitable organizations since its inception in 2018, has closed out a record year with over $1 million in donations.

The contributions, 45 in all, include its partnerships with the Music Health Alliance and KultureCity, multiple music schools, and organizations such as the Caring for Covenant Fund.

These partnerships have served to establish a first-of-its-kind combined senior healthcare program and fund designed specifically for music industry veterans and legacy music makers, make event venues across the US accessible through the installation and renovation of sensory rooms, and provide funds to sch ools that allow children the opportunity to learn through music and arts.

Daigle has provided a way for fans to also participate and join her in The Price Fund’s efforts by donating a portion of every concert ticket sold to the organization. In 2023, over 255,000 people have attended Daigle’s Kaleidoscope Tour.

“I formed the Price Fund to help make a positive impact in people’s lives and remind them they are not alone,” shares Daigle. “I am so proud of the work that we have been able to do over the last year and that fans can also play such a huge part in joining the effort to make a difference in the world. I am overjoyed about what is to come and what we can accomplish together.”

Daigle founded The Price Fund to honor and memorialize her grandfather, Julian Price, who taught her how to love the world one relationship at a time. Designed to provide care for at-risk youth, children, and the elderly, The Price Fund, established in 2018, has expanded its mandate to support the arts with a goal to instill hope and love among people, no matter their background. 

The efforts have resulted in the distribution of nearly $3.5M to nonprofit organizations around the world. Additionally, Daigle’s partnership with Child Fund, which provides assistance to children facing poverty in over 24 countries, has seen over 12,500 children sponsored via tour dates in 2023.

Daigle is a two-time Grammy, eight-time Billboard Music, four-time American Music, and twelve-time GMA Dove Music Award winner.  She’s garnered over 5 billion streams and wowed crowds for years with sold-out US and international tours. In 2023, Daigle continues to cement her status as a modern vocal powerhouse with a huge global fanbase.

Since the release of her GRAMMY Award-winning, multi-platinum-certified 2018 album Look Up Child, which included the 6x platinum-certified hit “You Say” and 2x platinum-certified “Rescue,” Daigle has been a mainstay on the Billboard charts.

Her recent Mike Elizondo-produced, 23-song, self-titled album’s debut GRAMMY Nominated single, “Thank God I Do,” gave Daigle her 6^th Billboard No. 1. In fact, the song sat atop the chart for 20+ weeks, making Daigle the only artist to have ever had a song top the charts for more than 20 weeks – twice. It’s these accomplishments that seem to have consistently followed an artist whose musical thirst has yet to be quenched.

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.”