After their successful 6th album, Citizens releases a deluxe version of the project featuring acoustic tracks recorded live in Nashville. Taking their listeners on a thoughtful journey away from the need to find answers to infinite questions and pointing to Peace found in surrender, Citizens describe it as “a record for the lost, last, and least.”

The live additions capture the band’s magnetic nature, speaking straight their audience through songs that cover subjects such as imagination, discovery, and the beauty of divine mystery. “Many times [we think] we are grazing the edges of God not realizing it’s our edges that we are bumping up against,” said frontman Zach Bolen said.

The deluxe album creates a space where questions, perspective shifts, and expression are welcome. They invite us to consider that perhaps it is art and imagination which can open our minds and hearts even more to a God that is far bigger than words can describe.

MRC and NBC today announced the finalists for the “2023 Billboard Music Awards” (BBMA), which honor the year’s most successful artists in categories across all genres of music. The annual live broadcast showcases spectacular performances, unexpected collaborations, and buzzworthy pop culture moments that keep fans talking all year.

Some of the most unforgettable moments of the evening take place during the presentation of both the prestigious Billboard Icon Award, which honors record-breaking artists and their impact on music, and the Billboard Change Maker Award, which honors an artist or group that speaks truth to power through their music, platform, and community.

The BBMAs will broadcast live coast-to-coast from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Sunday, November 19 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT on NBC and stream live on Peacock.

This year’s awards are based on music consumption reflected on Billboard charts dated November 19, 2022 through October 21, 2023. “Billboard Music Award” winners are based on key fan interactions with music, including audio and video streaming, album and song sales, radio airplay and touring. Nominees for relevant Christian and Gospel music categories are below.

Top Christian Artist
Brandon Lake
Elevation Worship
for KING & COUNTRY
Lauren Daigle
Phil Wickham

Top Christian Album
Anne Wilson “My Jesus”
Brandon Lake “House of Miracles”
CAIN “Rise Up”
Elevation Worship “LION”
Lauren Daigle “Lauren Daigle”

Top Christian Song
Brandon Lake “Gratitude”
Chris Tomlin “Holy Forever”
for KING & COUNTRY with Jordin Sparks “Love Me Like I Am”
Lauren Daigle “Thank God I Do”
Phil Wickham “This Is Our God”

Top Gospel Artist
CeCe Winans
Elevation Worship
Kanye West
Kirk Franklin
Maverick City Music

Top Gospel Album
Jonathan McReynolds “My Truth”
Maverick City Music x Kirk Franklin “Kingdom Book One”
Tye Tribbett “All Things New”
Whitney Houston “I Go to the Rock: The Gospel Music of Whitney Houston”
Zacardi Cortez “Imprint (Live in Memphis)”

Top Gospel Song
CeCe Winans “Goodness of God”
Crowder & Dante Bowe ft. Maverick City Music “God Really Loves Us”
Elevation Worship ft. Chandler Moore & Tiffany Hudson “More Than Able”
Maverick City Music & Kirk Franklin ft. Brandon Lake & Chandler Moore “Fear is Not My Future”
Zacardi Cortez “Lord Do It For Me (Live in Memphis)”

Renowned multi-award singer-songwriter-producer and author, Jonathan McReynolds closes out 2023 on a high note. This year has been nothing but a non-stop rollercoaster-ride filled with amazing highs for the Chicago native.

Last week, the GMA DOVE Awards were handed out to the best of the best in Gospel music and Jonathan McReynolds was front and center not only as presenter, but also as a winner as he walked away with the “Contemporary Gospel/Urban Recorded Song of the Year” for his smash single, “Your World.”

This past summer, Jonathan McReynolds co-hosted the 38th Annual Stellar Gospel Awards alongside Tasha Cobbs Leonard. The evening was filled with lots of joy and excitement as his protege’ and artist signed to his own record label, Life Room Label, multi-award winning artist, DOE, walked away with three Stellar Awards.

Earlier this year, Jonathan release his much anticipated fifth studio album, “My Truth” to rave reviews. The 12-track album still remains on top of the Billboard Magazine Gospel Charts and holding strong at #20 this week. “My Truth” delivered the powerful and former #1 Gospel song in the country, “Your World”.

The song went on to hold the #1 spot for 7 consecutive weeks. “Your World” reminds the listener of God’s sovereignty – a bop, intentionally upbeat, and happy.

Jonathan McReynolds shares, “This song reflects my evolution and growth. I am not the same person I was when I wrote my first album. Now, I am secure enough to take more risks and remove any limits to my creativity. It’s God’s World, and we are just living in it!”

With the success of the “My Truth” album, Jonathan embarked on his national headlining “My Truth Tour.” The tour became one of the most talked about tours of the spring. Jonathan would leave it all on the stage, night after night and city after city.

In making sure to always give back, Jonathan partnered with Compassion International, a child sponsorship and Christian humanitarian aid organization that aims to positively influence the long-term development of children globally who live in poverty.

“I am truly thankful for the year that I have just had. I always love and appreciate “album years”, as it allows for me to go into the world with a specific theme and new message to touch the fans.” “I am already looking forward to 2024 and start the creative process for another album,” shares Jonathan.

As an author, McReynolds’ first book, “Make Room: Finding Where Faith Fits,” draws on testimonies in scripture and from personal experiences to invite readers to make room for God in every area of life. Jonathan is in the process of adding finishing touches to his sophomore book, to be released in 2024, under his new publishing deal with W. Publishing.

Also in 2024, Jonathan McReynolds will add the title of Professor to his hyphenate, as he will teach a “Christians In Culture,” course at The Moody Theological Seminary.

Today (Oct 27), Steven Malcolm releases “40” and drops the pre-order for this album, BOATS, due Feb 2024.

Jordan St. Cyr is getting into the Christmas spirit by announcing a 2023 tour with Consumed By Fire. The tour is named after his 2022 holiday song “The Wait Is Over.”

The Christmas season is almost upon us and what a great reminder to worship the God who changed every story. Years of unfulfilled prophecy finally fulfilled with the birth of Jesus. That’s the heart of my new Christmas song The Wait Is Over. – St. CyrChristmas Tour 2023 Dates

• Dec 1 Traverse City, MI

• Dec 7 Salisbury, MD

• Dec 8 Milton, PA

• Dec 9 Hockessin, DE

• Dec 10 Manheim, PA

• Dec 12 Sellersville, PA

• Dec 15 Sebastian, FL

• Dec 17 Wilmington, NC

NETFLIX was proud to showcase their upcoming series, “All the Light We Cannot See” with an exclusive and intimate screening co-hosted by Grammy-nominated artist Natalie Grant, fashion & lifestyle guru Hunter Premo, and renowned Mom maven, author Jessica Turner.

Nashville’s influencers, Jess Conte, Gabriel Conte, “Facebook Marketplace” Tiktok comedian Chris Guerra, Julia Haven, Ashley Hetherington and Matthew Paul Turner, attended the exclusive event at Soho House.

After the screening, the attendees held a lively conversation about the themes throughout the series: the power of community and hope, love of family, and finding light in the midst of profound darkness.

Natalie Grant said, “What struck me about the series was the power of words. The fact that she believed that she could withstand. Not just the character but the actress. Marie says, ‘in this time of stupid darkness what are we saying?’ and I find that so timely.

We have so much power in our words. Hunter Premo said, “What struck me as a mother, was Mark Ruffalo’s character and everything he did as a father to  prepare his daughter for the world. I also was moved by the notion that light goes on even in the darkness.”

Jessica Turner said, “When I watched this series, I didn’t remember the story’s plot because I read it 9 years ago. But I did remember the feeling. The series made me feel the exact same way I felt when I read the book. So powerful!”

“All the Light We Cannot See” premieres November 2nd on Netflix. Be sure to follow Netflix on social media platforms for updates and announcements on this thrilling miniseries.

Natalie Grant Co-Hosts Intimate Screening Of “All The Light We Cannot See”

Stream & Enjoy

https://youtube.com/watch?v=QdE-JvKqpBQ%3Ffeature%3Doembed

About ALL THE LIGHT WE CANNOT SEE: Anthony Doerr’s Pulitzer Prize-winning bestseller All The Light We Cannot See will become an epic four-part Netflix limited series produced by Shawn Levy’s 21 Laps Entertainment (The Adam Project, Stranger Things, Free Guy, Shadow and Bone, Arrival) and written by Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders).

Levy directed all episodes. Shawn Levy, Dan Levine and Josh Barry of 21 Laps Entertainment serve as Executive Producers on the series.

21 Laps is the production company behind PGA Award-winning global phenomenon Stranger Things, Oscar nominated film Arrival, Netflix hit series Shadow and Bone, hit movies Free Guy and The Adam Project. Knight also serves as an Executive Producer. Joe Strechay (See, The OA) serves as Associate Producer, Blindness and Accessibility Consultant.

Today (Oct 27), Sarah Reeves releases “Christmas Feels Different This Year” alongside a pre-order for The More The Merrier Deluxe Edition. 

The Awakening Foundation, powered by Awakening Events, announces the next leg of the “Zach Williams A Hundred Highways Tour” will kick off this spring and run for 30 dates. Opening on March 8 and going through May 10, the “A Hundred Highways Tour” is supported by World Vision, Altrua HealthShare, K-LOVE Radio, and Air1 Radio.

Concertgoers will experience an unforgettable evening of the two-time GRAMMY Award winner’s powerful vocals, raw talent, and chart-topping hits. From “Chain Breaker” to “Rescue Story,” Zach Williams’ music speaks to the heart of what it means to be human, and his electrifying live shows are unlike anything you’ve ever experienced in Christian music.

Opening the tour will be Riley Clemmons, a rising star in the industry who will set the stage ablaze with her angelic voice and captivating stage presence. With hits like “Keep on Hoping” and “Fighting for Me,” she is sure to inspire and uplift you with her soulful lyrics and infectious melodies. Join in for a memorable night of music, worship, and community.

Tickets go on sale November 2 at 11am CT/12pm ET with a special 20% fan discount for standard tickets kicks off the same day by using the code INSIDER. Running through November 16, the special offer is not valid for VIP or Group ticket sales. 

Zach Williams Announces Spring 2024 Run For His ‘A Hundred Highways Tour’

A Hundred Highways Tour dates:

Fri., March 8 – Macon, GA – Macon City Auditorium

Sat., March 9 – Jacksonville, FL – Florida Theatre

Sun., March 10 – Montgomery, AL – Montgomery Performing Arts Centre

Fri., March 15 – Akron, OH – Akron Civic Theatre

Sat., March 16 – Asheville, NC – Thomas Wolfe Auditorium

Sun., March 17 – Chattanooga, TN – Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Auditorium

Fri., March 22 – Longview, TX – LeTourneau University Belcher Center

Sat., March 23 – Wichita Falls, TX – Kay Yeager Coliseum

Sun., March 24 – Coming soon

Wed., March 27 – Ames (Des Moines), IA – Stephens Auditorium at Iowa State University

Thurs., March 28 – Cedar Rapids, IA – Paramount Theatre

Fri., March 29 – Columbia, MO – Jesse Auditorium

Thurs., April 4 – Pensacola, FL – Saenger Theatre

Fri., April 5 – Coming soon

Sat., April 6 – New Orleans, LA – Mahalia Jackson Theater For The Performing Arts

Fri., April 12 – Wheeling, WV – Capitol Theatre

Sat., April 13 – Milwaukee, WI – The Riverside Theater

Sun., April 14 – Elkhart, IN – Lerner Theatre

Fri., April 19 – Raleigh, NC – Raleigh Memorial Auditorium

Sat., April 20 – Corbin, KY – Corbin Arena

Tues., April 23 – Reading, PA – Santander Performing Arts Center

Wed., April 24 – Lowell, MA – Lowell Memorial Auditorium

Fri., April 26 – Portland, ME – Merrill Auditorium

Sat., April 27 – Baltimore, MD – Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena

Fri., May 3 – N. Charleston, SC – North Charleston PAC

Sat., May 4 – Florence, SC – Florence Center

Sun., May 5 – Huntsville, AL – Mark C. Smith Concert Hall

Wed., May 8 – Topeka, KS – Stormont Vail Events Center

Thurs., May 9 – Amarillo, TX – Amarillo Civic Center Auditorium

Fri., May 10 – Siloam Springs (Fayetteville), AR – Bill George Arena at John Brown University

Picture this: A married duo from Little Rock, Arkansas. A blend of country music with a twist. It is an album that promises a remarkable listening experience. Welcome to the world of Cliff & Susan and their new album, “Fiddle & Keys.”

You may not have heard of Cliff & Susan yet. But believe me, you will! Hailing from Little Rock, Arkansas, this dynamic duo is about to take the country music world by storm. Their debut album, “Fiddle & Keys,” is set to be released on October 27, 2023. And let me tell you, it’s not just another country album. It’s a seven-year musical journey that captures the essence of this extraordinary duo.

Cliff & Susan promises a unique sound that draws from its roots in the country genre while also introducing innovative elements that challenge the status quo. Their music is a blend of classic country with rocking piano, guitar, and fiddle riffs. You’ll be intrigued and captivated by their refreshing approach to music.

What’s more, the featured single from the album, “Neon Dreams,” is already making waves in the music industry. The track has already garnered over 12K Spotify streams and has made its way into the UK iTunes Top 10 Country Songs chart. If that’s any indication, the full album is set to be a game-changer.

Cliff & Susan aren’t your average country musicians. They’re a married duo from Little Rock, Arkansas, with a shared vision and a collaborative spirit that is evident in their music. Their journey has been a testament to their love for music and each other. And now, they’re sharing their passion with the world through their debut album, “Fiddle & Keys.”

Their music is influenced by various genres, but their love for country music is at the core of their work. They’ve melded their influences to create a sound that’s uniquely their own. It’s the sound of Cliff’s guitar and fiddle, complemented by Susan’s powerful voice and skillful piano playing.

And the result? Absolutely breathtaking. Their album, “Fiddle & Keys,” is a testament to their journey and their shared musical vision. It’s a collection of 12 meticulously crafted songs that capture the essence of Cliff & Susan. A melting pot of influences, storytelling, and high-energy performances. And I can assure you, it’s unlike anything you’ve heard before.

Stand-out Tracks include:

“Neon Dreams”: The album opener is a punchy track that sets the tone for the rest of the album. It’s a vibrant track that plays with rhythms in a dynamic way. The song manages to achieve a balance, staying simple and fun but not veering too far off into monotony.

“Better Than a Country Song” This track is a heartfelt ballad that lets the lyrics shine through. It’s a stripped-back track that focuses on the songwriting. It’s a song that resonates with the listener and communicates a strong message.

“Fiddle and Keys” The title track is a lively piece that captures the spirit of the album. It’s a fun tune that exudes positivity and freedom. It’s a track that’s infectious and will get you dancing in no time.

As the album winds down, one cannot help but appreciate the musical journey that Cliff & Susan have taken us on. The album is a testament to their creativity and their passion for music. It’s a body of work that is sure to leave a lasting impact on the country music scene.

The success of “Fiddle & Keys” so far speaks volumes about the duo’s talent and their potential. The album has managed to create a unique sound that stands out in a genre often saturated with the familiar. It’s a refreshing change that’s sure to captivate fans old and new. 

Cliff & Susan have poured their hearts into this album, and it shows. Their music is not just a collection of songs; it’s a journey, a story, a celebration of love and life. So go on, kick off them boots, stir up the honky-tonk, and enjoy the hollerin’ good time that is “Fiddle & Keys.”

World-renowned genre pioneers The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir—flagship artist of new independent Gospel Music label StowTown Worship—added to a cadre of prestigious accolades with two historic wins at last week’s 54th Annual GMA Dove Awards in Nashville. Garnering trophies for Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year for “He’s Been Faithful” (feat. TaRanda Greene) and Musical/Choral Collection of the Year for A Night of Worship with The Brooklyn Tabernacle, the famed ensemble brought home StowTown Worship’s first-ever Dove Awards.  

Penned by Carol Cymbala, founding musical director of The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, “He’s Been Faithful” (feat. TaRanda Greene) is among the highlights of the group’s 2022 StowTown Worship debut, A Night of Worship with The Brooklyn Tabernacle. Inspirational, Gospel and contemporary melodies enveloped in sweeping orchestral arrangements hallmark the 11-song live set, which was produced by Cymbala along with J. Daniel Smith.  

“I’m accepting this award on behalf of my mother, Carol Cymbala,” said Susan Pettrey, upon receiving The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir’s Dove for Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year. “I am so proud of her. She’s poured her life out, and I’ve seen her on her face crying out to God for songs from Heaven that would lead people to Jesus and draw them close to Him. She’s given her life to that. She does this for Him; for His name to be glorified and lifted up. He has been so faithful.”

In addition, A Night of Worship with The Brooklyn Tabernacle won the Dove Award for Musical/Choral Collection of the Year. Arranged by Cymbala, the compilation was orchestrated by J. Daniel Smith, Chris McDonald, Jim Hammerly and Bradley Knight.
 
“On behalf of The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and StowTown Worship, we are so honored for the opportunity to showcase such a great collection of music,” said Landon Beene, president, StowTown Records/StowTown Worship. “Choral music is alive and well and relevant today, so it’s a privilege to present this music and make it available for the Church at large. We’re grateful to the Gospel Music Association and our peers for recognizing our efforts.”
 
“The music of The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir has, for over 20 years, been a balm to my soul,” adds Mary Alice Lovelace, director of communications & creative services, StowTown Records/StowTown Worship. “Ministry is always at the forefront of what they do, and it is an absolute honor for our team at StowTown Worship, along with our partners at Sony/Provident, to share this music with the world.”