Curb Records recording artist Steven Malcolm releases the official music video for “Feels to Be Free” featuring Sanctus Real. Returning to Malcolm’s worship roots, “Feels To Be Free” is reminiscent of his impactful 2019 collaboration with Natalie Grant, “Even Louder.”

A soul-stirring anthem blending powerful hip-hop rhythms with uplifting rock elements, “Feels To Be Free” creates a unique worship experience in which Malcolm shares his personal testimony, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own journeys of redemption. “This song is all about being free. Free from self, free from bondage, free from whatever it is that keeps you in the darkness.

No longer living captive to the desires of our flesh and brokenness. But looking towards God, knowing He is the ultimate giver of freedom,” shares Malcolm. Fans of Lecrae, KB, for KING + COUNTRY, NF, and We The Kingdom will find “Feels To Be Free” to be a perfect addition to their playlists.

Feels To Be Free – Steven Malcolm Ft. Sanctus Real

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https://youtube.com/watch?v=p01X-PPJPdY%3Ffeature%3Doembed

Capitol CMG announces the signing of twenty-something artist and songwriter Claire Leslie. Celebrating the signing, she is releasing her label debut single, “Original.” The debut song’s concept of being ‘original’ has played a large role in what Claire Leslie wants to be known for – authentic and unique. “Original” was co-written by Leslie, Jordan Sapp, and Daniella Mason. Listen to “Original”

“Capitol is my absolute dream label,” shares Claire Leslie. “I have to pinch myself daily, like, ‘Is this real life?’ It still doesn’t feel quite real. The entire team at Capitol is incredibly supportive and feels like my second family. What excites me the most is that they share my vision and are enthusiastic about experimenting with me to bring a fresh creative perspective to this industry.”

Capitol CMG Signs New Artist Claire Leslie & Debuts New Song Today

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

“We couldn’t be more excited to have Claire be part of the Capitol CMG family,” shares Garrett Davis, A&R Capitol CMG. “From the first time our team met Claire, we knew she was special and that we wanted to be a part of bringing her music to the world.  She’s infectious, caring, and a bright spot in an industry that needs it.  I can’t wait for people to hear what she has to say.”

With her upbeat personality and honesty, Claire Leslie has increased her following by 630% on her socials by teasing new songs and demos over the past 60 days. Her consistent content strategy and unique sound have helped her audience grow, reaching over 2M views on vertical content before her first major label debut.

Leslie adds, “I think more than ever, it’s easy to feel pressure to conform to what society says and fit into a box. At 22 years old, this is something I find that I’m reminding myself of daily—I have to consciously decide to be confident in my skin before stepping out the door. Understanding the person that God made me to be and finding security in that has been crucial. But there is a beauty in embracing our uniqueness and staying true to ourselves.”

The Collingsworth Family releases their new album, Classics & Hymns, today on Gaither Music. This 14-song collection breathes new life into beloved hymns and gospel classics, showcasing the seamless harmonies and lush scores that the group has featured on prestigious stages worldwide. A DVD companion, filmed at Nashville’s esteemed Fisher Center, is also available today, featuring stirring performances that bring the album’s tracks to life on stage.

Classics & Hymns includes standout tracks like “Sweeter As the Days Go By,” which landed in the 18th spot on the New Music Friday Christian playlist on Spotify and has been featured on Amazon’s Highly Favored playlist, and “Jesus Is All the World to Me.” The family’s rendition of the standard “Praise the Lord” encapsulates the spirit and musical excellence that defines The Collingsworth Family’s ministry.

Since their first engagement together as musicians for a church camp in Petersburg, Michigan, in August 1986, the ministry of Phil & Kim Collingsworth has expanded and flourished into a full-time livelihood that involves their entire family.

They have sung and played all over the United States and internationally, now celebrating their 33rd year of ministry. Their constant, persistent attention to cutting-edge arrangements, musical excellence and a proper balance of spiritual emphasis are the keys to their success.

“The release of Classics & Hymns is the culmination of nearly two years of intense work,” stated group founder and member Phil Collingsworth. “Countless hours were logged by the group — selecting, rehearsing and recording vocals; Kim and Bradley Knight poured over the arrangements; their Nashville recording band cut the tracks with flourish; members of the Nashville String Machine recorded the lush orchestrations; then Bradley, Kim, Phillip Jr and Ronnie Brookshire labored hour upon hour, meticulously mixing and finessing the final product.

The Collingsworth Family Releases ‘Classics & Hymns’

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https://youtube.com/watch?v=Nz4shsHNNX4%3Ffeature%3Doembed

After the sparkle was added by John Mayfield Mastering, a masterpiece emerged that is an ‘Ebenezer’ for these classic writers and the incredible literature they have gifted our world in the form of these timeless songs. We did not want another generation to pass without them hearing these treasures again!”

A TV special surrounding the project will air on various networks this weekend and throughout late summer and fall, including RFD-TV, TBN, Heartland, CTN, TCT, The Walk TV, Vision Television & Hope TV (Canada) and The Miracle Channel (Canada).

A YouTube premiere of the filming will debut on the Gaither Music TV YouTube channel (and its over three million subscribers) on August 2, and songs from the DVD will be featured on Apple Music, the Gaither YouTube channel and the Gaither Facebook page (and its over two million subscribers). The full-length video will be available on demand on the GaitherTV+ platform, an ad-free subscription streaming service that is part of UP Faith & Family.

The Classics & Hymns DVD is available at Amazon, Christianbook.com, Parable.com and other retailers.

Track Listing:

1. We’ll Understand It Better By and By / Heaven’s Jubilee
2. Jesus You’re The Center of My Joy
3. Arise My Soul Arise
4. God On The Mountain
5. Sweeter As The Days Go By
6. Precious Blood / The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power
7. I Bless Your Name
8. Sing Your Praise To The Lord
9. His Strength Is Perfect
10. I’m Gonna Keep On Singing
11. I Am Not Ashamed
12. Jesus Is All The World To Me
13. Jesus Is The Answer
14. Praise The Lord

Bill Abernathy’s newest single, “Save Your Drama for Your Momma,” which has secured a spot at #34 on the UK iTunes Top Rock Songs chart, strikes a resonant chord with its audience through a blend of caustic social commentary and rock-infused melodies. The song is a potent mix of pointed political critique and compelling musicianship, making it a standout in the current rock scene.

From the get-go, Abernathy pulls no punches in his scathing critique of contemporary politics. The chorus, which acts as the song’s anchor, is both catchy and biting:

Save your drama for your momma

You all should be ashamed

Save your drama for your momma

Stop shrugging off the blame

This refrain not only sticks in the listener’s mind but also encapsulates the song’s overarching theme: a profound disillusionment with political games and empty rhetoric. Abernathy’s lyrics navigate the murky waters of political discontent, highlighting issues such as inflation, market instability, and environmentally destructive policies. 

In Verse 1, Abernathy paints a vivid picture of the disconnect between political leaders and the realities faced by the general populace. Lines like:

Inflations just another

Transitory phase

and

Drowning in their policies 

Cause they don’t “get” the math

resonate deeply in today’s socio-economic landscape, reflecting a widespread sentiment of frustration and skepticism towards those in power.

The Chorus repeats after each verse, reinforcing the critical tone and allowing the listener to reflect on the powerful statements made in the verses. 

Musically, “Save Your Drama for Your Momma” is a well-crafted rock anthem. The song features Abernathy on acoustic guitars and vocals, with Kevin Rogers on electric guitars, Craig Kew on bass and fretless bass, Alex Cordero on keyboards and strings, and Larry Gann on drums and percussion. The synergy among these musicians is palpable, creating a sound that is both cohesive and dynamic.

Bill Abernathy’s “Save Your Drama for Your Momma”

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The song’s arrangement is meticulously crafted. The acoustic guitar provides a steady foundation, while the electric guitar adds layers of intensity and depth. The bass lines are robust, grounding the composition, while the keyboard and string sections bring a touch of sophistication. The drums and percussion drive the rhythm forward, ensuring that the song maintains a strong momentum throughout.

The production quality of the track, managed by Larry Gann, who also served as one of the producers alongside Abernathy, is top-notch. Recorded at AweStruck Studios, the track boasts a polished yet authentic feel, striking a balance between raw rock energy and smooth production values. Larry Gann’s expertise in engineering and mastering shines through, as each instrument is clearly defined, and Abernathy’s vocals are front and center without overshadowing the intricate instrumental work.

One of the song’s standout elements is its Bridge:

Listen what they really say

Delusional and crazy

Claiming they can save the world

By spending all your money

This section encapsulates the essence of Abernathy’s message, delivering it with a punchy rhythm and an almost anthemic quality. The bridge also includes one of the most memorable lines:

That the next Pandemic in the USA is

Diarrhea of the mouth

This lyric perfectly captures the frustration many feel towards the incessant political rhetoric that seems to dominate the media landscape.

Bill Abernathy’s “Save Your Drama for Your Momma” is more than just a song; it’s a statement. Its place on the UK iTunes Top Rock Songs chart is well-deserved, as it combines thought-provoking lyrics with masterful musical execution. Abernathy’s ability to articulate a sense of widespread discontent while maintaining a catchy, rock-driven sound demonstrates his prowess as both a songwriter and a musician.

Whether you’re drawn to its political critique or its infectious rock rhythm, “Save Your Drama for Your Momma” is a track that demands attention and invites repeated listens. It’s a testament to the power of music as a medium for social commentary and a reminder of the enduring relevance of rock music in voicing the concerns of the times.

–Tom Johnson

GRAMMY®-Award Winning singer/songwriter Brandon Lake debuts his latest single, “That’s Who I Praise.” This highly anticipated release has generated significant buzz among his global fanbase and within the Christian music community.

Lake teased a portion of the song to fans in April and was so inspired by the overwhelming response  he chose to fast-track the song to release as soon as possible. Fans have created thousands of their own videos on TikTok and Instagram using the pre-released audio.

The music video will debut on July 31, 2024 and will include a compilation of hundreds of fan videos.

“I am in awe of the response my new single, ‘That’s Who I Praise’ has gotten,” said Brandon Lake. “From social media, to the thousands of music video submissions, I decided to release this song way before the scheduled date. I hope this song shines light on who God was, is, and will forever be. This song is an anthem that takes the focus off of what we need from God, but more so praising God for simply who he is.”

“That’s Who I Praise” promises to continue Brandon Lake’s legacy of impactful worship music. Lake’s new anthem is a celebration, and an exaltation of God as the mountain-moving, body-raising, chain-breaking Savior.

Lake has added this hit to the setlist for the Summer Worship Nights Tour with Phil Wickham which kicks off on 8/1 in Detroit. Summer Worship Nights 2024 is already proving to be the top Christian tour of the summer with several shows already sold out.

That’s Who I Praise – Brandon Lake

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Multi-Grammy and GMA Award winning Steven Curtis Chapman was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry tonight by Opry member and longtime friend Ricky Skaggs. With 50 No. 1 hits, Chapman is the most awarded artist in Christian music history. The beloved singer made his Opry debut 42 years ago at age 19 when he was a performer at Opryland Theme Park singing the songs of Opry greats including George Jones, Ricky Skaggs and more.

After Chapman’s set, Skaggs approached his friend with a framed photo of a young Chapman from around the time of his Opry debut.

“[The archives] have found a picture of [you]. We need to have a picture of this. Where’s Chris [Hollo, Opry photographer]? Get a good picture because this is going to go great beside that picture right there that he’s taking because you are going to be the next member of the Grand Ole Opry, if you want to!? Only if you want to!?” Chapman dropped to his knees excited and in disbelief.  Skaggs said, “I think you want to.” Skaggs continued, “I’m so proud for you bud. You deserve to be here.

There’s been greats that have been on this stage and been members of the Opry and we are glad you’re joining the Grand Ole Opry and doing what you do best.”

“That is incredible, brother,” said Chapman. “I can not tell you all how surprised I am. This is a massive surprise. I had no idea, and I am so honored and just so grateful. What an amazing family to be a part of. I was thinking when I started singing tonight on this stage, I really did, this is my favorite place to sing these days. I feel at home, I feel like this is my family. Everyone here. I am so honored to be part of this family. Thank you guys. Thank you Jesus, and thank you all.”

Chapman’s induction date will be announced soon.

Chapman is also scheduled to perform on this season’s Opry Country Christmas. The Opry member-elect will be the Spotlight Artist on December 22. Presented by Humana, the series will also feature special performances by Spotlight Artists including Opry members Jon Pardi (Dec. 1), The Oak Ridge Boys (Dec. 4),  Scotty McCreery (Dec. 5), Chris Young (Dec. 8), Chris Janson (Dec. 11), Trace Adkins (Dec. 16), and more. Tickets are on sale now at opry.com.

Hosted by Grammy_®-winning Opry member Larry Gatlin, Opry Country Christmas will showcase songs of the holiday season beginning Dec. 1 and running through Dec. 23 for a total of ten shows. Each show features Opry members The Gatlin Brothers, Riders In The Sky, Mandy Barnett and Country Music Hall of Famer Charlie McCoy. Other Opry members, Spotlight Artists and special guests including Kathy Mattea (12/2), Priscilla Block (12/8), Chapel Hart(12/11), Mickey Guyton (12/16), John Berry (12/22) and more will round out the shows made up of artists’ original songs and timeless Christmas favorites.

One of America’s most cherished Gospel music families, The Nelons, were involved in a tragic plane crash on Friday afternoon. The family was en route to join the Gaither Homecoming Cruise to Alaska when the accident occurred. The crash claimed the lives of Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, their daughter Amber and son-in-law Nathan Kistler, their assistant Melodi Hodges, and the pilot Larry Haynie and his wife Melissa. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is currently investigating the accident.

Daywind Music Group’s Ed Leonard states, “The Daywind Music Group family is devastated by the news of the passing of several members of the Nelons in a plane crash on Friday. We pray that God’s peace and love cover surviving member, Autumn Nelon Streetman, and her husband, Jamie, along with the Clark, Hodges, Kistler, and Haynie families, following the loss of Kelly Nelon Clark, Jason Clark, Amber Nelon Kistler, Nathan Kistler, and their close friends Melodi Hodges, Larry Haynie, and Melissa Haynie, who travelled with them on the flight.

In this time of unimaginable grief for these families, we know that our beloved artist and their friends are in the arms of Jesus Christ whom the Nelons spent their entire careers singing about as they spread His Gospel around the world. We stand on His promises today as we grieve the loss our precious Daywind family members.”

Autumn Nelon Streetman, the youngest member of the Nelons and daughter of Kelly Nelon Clark and Jason Clark, and Autumn’s husband, Jamie Streetman, were not on the plane and arrived safely in Seattle. They were notified of the accident and brought to the hotel where fellow artists, including Bill and Gloria Gaither, gathered to support them. The community joined together to pray, sing, and offer their heartfelt condolences, pledging unwavering support during this difficult time.

Autumn and Jamie will return home to be with Kelly’s brother, Todd Nelon, and his wife, Rhonda, as they begin to navigate the challenging days ahead. The Nelon family, along with the Kistler, Haynie, and Hodges families, need your thoughts and prayers.

A Statement from Autumn Nelon Streetman:

“As many of you have heard by now, my father and mother, Jason and Kelly Nelon Clark, along with my sister, Amber, and brother-in-law, Nathan, as well as our dear friends Melodi Hodges, Larry, and Melissa Haynie, were involved in a tragic plane crash on Friday. Thank you for the prayers that have been extended already to me, my husband, Jamie, and our soon-to-be-born baby boy, as well as Jason’s parents, Dan and Linda Clark. We appreciate your continued prayers, love, and support as we navigate the coming days.”

The GMA Hall of Fame group was set to release what is said to be their most important body of work on August 30th.

The 29-time Dove Award winner,  Chris Tomlin has received three nominations for the upcoming 2024 awards – Song of the Year and Spanish Language Worship Recorded Song of the Year – both for record setting “Holy Forever.” Additionally, he received a nomination for Children’s Recorded Song of the Year as a writer for Yancy’s recording of “Holy Forever.”

Chris co-wrote the RIAA gold-certified song “Holy Forever” with Brian Johnson and Jenn Johnson, Phil Wickham, and Jason Ingram. Since its release, it has received numerous award nominations at the Grammys, Billboard Music Awards, and K-LOVE Awards, reigned at #1 on the radio charts for six weeks and became Tomlin’s 21^st career radio #1 single.

“I have always said there are good songs, great songs, and God songs and no doubt “Holy Forever” falls into the God songs category,” shared Chris. “Congratulations to every other songwriter and artist that has been nominated this year, it is an honor to be listed alongside you all.”

The 55^th Annual GMA Dove Awards event will be held in Nashville on October 1, 2024, and will air exclusively on TBN and TBN+ Friday, October 4th, 2024 at 8pm and 10pm ET and simulcast on SiriusXM The Message.

“Holy Forever’s” continued impact has given opportunity for unique collaborations and new renditions of the song, including a recent release with CAIN and the Dove Award nominated Spanish language version with Miel San Marcos, a Portuguese version with Gabriel Guedes de Almeida, a powerful collaboration with Bethel Music live from Tomlin’s Good Friday Nashville, and many others.

Chris will kick off the third leg of his “Holy Forever World Tour” in Canada next month with Pat Barrett and a second leg of U.S. shows planned this fall.

Holy Forever World Tour:

CANADA

8-14       Windsor, Ontario                           SOLD OUT

8-15       Cambridge, Ontario                       SOLD OUT

8-16       Toronto, Ontario

8-17       Niagara, Ontario                              

8-21       Calgary, Alberta – Night 1

8-22       Calgary, Alberta – Night 2             SOLD OUT

8-23       Edmonton, Alberta – Night 1         SOLD OUT

8-24       Edmonton, Alberta – Night 2

Pat Barrett as special guest

NORTH AMERICA LEG 2

10-8       Henderson, NV                                   Lee’s Family Forum

10-9       Ontario, CA                                       Toyota Arena

10-10     Phoenix, AZ                                       Mullett Arena

10-11     San Diego, CA                                    Viejas Arena

10-23     Hartford, CT                                      XL Center

10-24     Pittsburgh, PA                                   Petersen Events Center

10-25     Canton, OH                                        Canton Memorial Civic Center

11-1       Houston, TX                                       Berry Center

11-2       Fort Worth, TX                                  Dickies Arena

11-3       San Antonio, TX                                Freeman Coliseum

11-7       Atlanta, GA                                        Gas South Arena

11-8       Charlotte, NC                                    Bojangles Coliseum

11-9       Norfolk, VA                                        Chartway Arena

11-14     Minneapolis, MN                               Target Center

11-15     Chicago, IL                                         NOW Arena

11-16     Indianapolis, IN                                 Gainbridge Fieldhouse

11-21     Orlando, FL                                      Addition Financial Arena

11-22     Sunrise, FL                                         Amerant Bank Arena

11-23     Tampa, FL                                         Yuengling Center

Tauren Wells + Cain as special guests on varying nights

Sensational female Nigerian gospel singer, recording artiste, songwriter, and vocalist, Olaide Owoloye, churns out a music video for “God Is Real.”

The dynamic gospel singer features Sweet Psalmist on this new song. It comes as a follow-up to the recently released EP “Tent Of Judah” – a compilation of spiritually enriching songs, imbued with the presence of God, and serving as a conduit for expressing the profound love of God.

Olaide Owoloye firmly believes her purpose is “to channel the transformative power and boundless love of God through music, inspiring others to connect with Him on a deeper level.”

God is Real – Olaide Owoloye

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Dr. Mobolaji Olatunji, a distinguished medical doctor and an ardent worshipper, releases her powerful new worship anthem, “Awesome God.” Co-leading a parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in Port Elizabeth, South Africa with her husband, Dr. Babajide Olatunji, Dr. Mobolajide’s dedication to healing both body, spirit and soul is beautifully captured in this extraordinary musical offering.

“Awesome God,” inspired during her personal devotion, encapsulates the boundless, indescribable nature of God’s love and goodness. This song is a divine testament to the miracles and wonders of the Almighty, designed to ignite hearts with gratitude and awe.

Balancing her roles as a compassionate medical doctor and fervent spiritual leader, Dr. Mobolajide has dedicated her life to promoting holistic health. Her new song, “Awesome God,” promises to offer listeners a transformative spiritual experience.

“I pray that your heart is filled with gratitude and be awestruck as you revel in the awesomeness of our God,” says Dr. Mobolajide, inviting everyone to join her in this musical celebration of faith.

Awesome God – Dr. Mobolaji Olatunji

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