Pete Miller ‘Picks and Grins’ Through a Biblical Journey with Alt-Country Retelling of Joseph’s Story

The Pennsylvania-based singer-songwriter Pete Miller has gained recognition for his poignant lyricism and profound storytelling. His career has been punctuated with moments of intense creativity and soulful performances, leading to a growing following of loyal fans.


Miller’s latest release, “Oh Lord”, has marked yet another significant milestone in his musical journey. This Gospel country and folk-infused single, part of his acclaimed “Live On Record” debut album, draws from the profound narratives of the Christian faith and the everlasting human struggle, echoing in its composition the soulful twang of Johnny Cash.

Pete Miller ‘Picks and Grins’ Through a Biblical Journey with Alt-Country Retelling of Joseph’s Story

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The inspiration behind “Oh Lord” is as rich and layered as the song itself. The song defines its unique character by spinning the tale of Joseph and his brothers, a story deeply embedded in Christian lore. Its themes of jealousy, deceit, slavery, God, riches, rubies, pridefulness, and forgiveness are carefully woven into the lyrics.

The powerful imagery evoked by these themes leaves a lingering impression on the listener, completely absorbing them in Miller’s world. Notably, Miller’s blue-collar background shines through his music, providing an authenticity that profoundly resonates with his audience.

Pete Miller’s music is shaped by multiple influences, with Johnny Cash’s distinctive style being a prominent one. It’s in the plaintive drawl, the soulful strums of the guitar, the profound lyrics, that you can hear echoes of Cash. But Miller is not just a clone of the legendary artist;
he has a voice and style uniquely his own.

Other influences on Miller’s sound range from classic folk to blues, all contributing to the unique flavor of “Oh Lord”. These influences not only have shaped the sound of “Oh Lord”, but they have also paved the way for a deeper understanding of the song’s message.

The musical elements of “Oh Lord” are a testament to Miller’s talent and creativity. The instrumentation is simplistic yet impactful, with the guitar leading the melodies. The vocals, with their raw and soulful timbre, enhance the emotional resonance of the song.

The production, while polished, retains an earthy, rough-around-the-edges feel that suits the song’s folk and alt-country roots.

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An Unforgettable Harmonic Journey: Unraveling the Brilliance of Jim Huddleston’s “I’ll Be Gone”

There’s a captivating new voice in Christian country music for fans to take note of. His name is Jim Huddleston, a soulful singer-songwriter whose poignant lyrics and passionate performances are quickly attracting attention.

A disabled veteran, Jim’s life story is as inspiring as his music, filled with overcoming obstacles, enduring insurmountable challenges, and most importantly, leaning on faith that things will always get better. Jim’s journey started in a small mobile home park in Irving, Texas, was interrupted by military service, but has finally found a home in the heart of gospel and country music.

Jim has recently announced the pre-sale for his debut EP “Gospel Outlaw,” and the release of his new single “I’ll Be Gone,” a powerful Christian country/gospel track that offers a taste of what to expect from the upcoming EP. The single and the EP, released on MTS Records, perfectly encapsulates Jim’s signature blend of gospel bluegrass and country sound.

Jim Huddleston – I’ll Be Gone

The sound of “I’ll Be Gone” is a raw, heart-wrenching narrative of personal experiences and faith. A showcase of Jim’s twang-filled vocals and faith-driven lyrics, the single is more than just a song – it’s a reflection of his life journey. Jim’s vocals rise and fall with a palpable emotion that listeners can’t help but connect with, a showcase of his extraordinary ability to translate personal experiences into incredibly moving music.

The lyrics of “I’ll Be Gone” are layered with meaning, deeply personal yet universally relatable. They are a tapestry of Jim’s experiences, his trials and tribulations, his faith and his spirit. It’s a reminder of the enduring power of the American spirit and the importance of faith in difficult times. “I’ll Be Gone” is not just a testament to his musical prowess, but a testament to his resilience, his strength, and his spirit.

Jim Huddleston’s music roots run deep. He was exposed to a wide variety of music in his childhood, thanks to his father’s involvement in local country music bands. Growing up in a small mobile home park in Irving, Texas, Jim’s passion for music was kindled early, and his diverse musical influences are evident in his unique sound. Jim’s musical journey was interrupted by military service.

Details of his experiences in the military are scarce, but it’s clear that those experiences had a profound impact on him. After his service and marrying his wife, Jim returned to music in 2020, determined to share his faith and experiences through his music. At the heart of Jim’s music is a message of faith, perseverance, and hope. His songs are a reflection of his experiences, shaped by his own life story. They’re about overcoming adversity, finding hope in the midst of despair, and coming out stronger on the other side.

Jim’s music is more than just a compilation of songs – it’s a mission. A mission to spread messages of faith and perseverance through his unique blend of gospel and country music. With every strum of his guitar, every note he sings, he hopes to bring comfort to those who are struggling, to encourage them to keep going, to reignite their faith.

His debut EP, “Gospel Outlaw,” is not just an introduction to his music, but a testament of his journey. Through the EP, Jim hopes to reach a wider audience, to touch more lives with his music. He hopes that his story, his struggles and triumphs, can inspire others to keep going, to keep the faith, no matter what.

Jim’s music is a unique blend of gospel and country, a fusion that is both refreshing and deeply moving. He is a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of faith, and an inspiration to all. As a listener, as a fan, or as someone in need of a little hope and inspiration, it’s impossible to ignore the profound impact of his music.

Supporting Jim and his music is not just about being a fan. It’s about being a part of a movement, a community built on faith, resilience, and the healing power of music. So, let’s join Jim in his unforgettable harmonic journey. Let’s embrace the brilliance of his gospel, bluegrass and country sound. And let’s spread hope and inspiration together, one song at a time.

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Jim Huddleston – Gospel Outlaw

Jim Huddleston, a Christian country singer-songwriter and disabled veteran, has announced the release of his new single “I’ll Be Gone” and the pre-sale for his debut EP, “Gospel Outlaw.”

“I’ll Be Gone” is a powerful and heartfelt Christian country/gospel track that showcases Jim’s soulful vocals and faith-driven lyrics. The song, written by Huddleston, is a reflection of his faith and experiences. It is a reminder of the enduring power of an American spirit and the importance of faith in difficult times.

The single is the first release from Jim’s highly anticipated debut EP, “Gospel Outlaw,” which is set to be released on December 8th on MTS Records. The EP will feature a collection of original songs written by Jim and produced along with Michael Stover of MTS. It is a blend of country and gospel, showcasing Jim’s country-bluegrass style and gospel message.

Fans can now pre-order “Gospel Outlaw” on all major music platforms.

Jim Huddleston’s journey to music has been an inspiring one. Growing up in a small mobile home park in Irving, Texas, Jim was exposed to a wide variety of music through his father’s involvement in local country music bands. After serving in the military and marrying his wife, Jim returned to music in 2020, determined to share his faith and experiences through his music.

Jim Huddleston’s music is a reminder of the power of faith and perseverance. With his debut EP, “Gospel Outlaw,” Jim hopes to spread his message of hope and inspiration to a wider audience.

To stay updated on Jim Huddleston and his music, follow him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090804486137.

For more information about Jim Huddleston and “Gospel Outlaw,” please visit https://hypeddit.com/jimhuddleston/gospeloutlaw.

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Mike Janzen Releases His Third Album Of Psalm Interpretations ‘Songs From The Canyon’

Melding jazz, pop, and classical styles, Juno and GMA Covenant Awards-nominated Mike Janzen independently released his third album of Psalm interpretations, Songs from the Canyon, today (Nov. 1). The project features Janzen musically painting vivid, powerful textures as he explores Creation’s awe-inspiring landscapes along with the deep, plunging canyons of life’s suffering.

Produced by award-winning Timothy Abraham, the album has a profound sonic diversity, resonating from soaring strings to a belting gospel choir. Rich cinematic textures grace these 11 innovative compositions, including on the song “Steady” and its companion music video that premieres today on The Christian Beat.

Mitch Fillion filmed the video at All Saints Kingsway in Toronto and featured the Powerhouse Fellowship Soul Choir.

songsfromthecanyon

“This song was written as an anthem of hope to those who have braved the lonely valleys of loss, family breakup, and injury,” shares Janzen. “During these traumatic times, there’s often a sense that our world is crumbling around us; however, the book of Psalms is a reminder that the hesed, or steadfast love of God, will carry us through whatever storm or tragedy we encounter.”

The album also features “Hallelujah (Psalm 104)” that Janzen recently performed on 100 Huntley Street; “Took Hold,” which includes guest vocals by Stellar and GRAMMY Award-winner Dee Wilson; and the lead track, “Echoes (Psalm 8),” that highlights Indigenous Canadian artists Ray Coco” Stevenson (Cree/Objibwe) and Jonathan Maracle(Mohawk Nation).

With Rich Mullins-inspired dulcimer and Snarky Puppy-like brass, “Echoes” explores how the fingerprints of God are seen throughout creation and how we can be guardians of that beauty.

Mike Janzen Releases His Third Album Of Psalm Interpretations ‘Songs From The Canyon’

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“The song was written on the ancestral lands of the Anishinaabe peoples and is sonically inspired by the shared heritage of the landscape,” shares Janzen. “The musical presence of Coco Stevenson and Jonathan Maracle on this track is significant both in their artistry and cultural understanding of creation that resonates perfectly with the pre-modern poet who penned Psalm 8.”

The full Songs from the Canyon track listing follows:
1)    Echoes (Psalm 8)
2)    Hallelujah (Psalm 104)
3)    Took Hold (Psalm 18)
4)    Steady (Psalms)
5)    Wonderful (Psalm 139)
6)    How Long (Psalm 13)
7)    Canyons (Psalm 46)
8)    Great is the Lord (Psalm 96)
9)    Deep to Deep (Psalm 42)
10)  Have Mercy (Psalm 51)
11)  Circling (Psalm 22)

A gifted jazz pianist, composer, and arranger, Janzen has toured across North America, performing in concert halls, churches, and at festivals while combining his undeniable talent with a desire to create music that draws attention to the Maker.

“Mike brings a really imaginative and fresh voice to the current music scene,” says Joe Amaral as he introduces Janzen last month on 100 Huntley Street, Canada’s longest-running daily television talk show. “And whether it’s soul-stirring songwriting to mesmerizing piano solos…his music – it’s approachable, and it hits the deep places of the heart…He combines undeniable talent with the desire to create music that draws attention to God, the Father, the Maker.”

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Lauren Daigle Extends ‘The Kaleidoscope Tour’ With Additional 2024 Dates

2x GRAMMY Award winner and multi-platinum selling artist Lauren Daigle announced additional 2024 dates extending her The Kaleidoscope Tour. Blessing Offor, Victory Boyd and Ellie Holcomb will appear on select dates.

Earlier this year (Sept 8), Daigle released the remainder of her self-titled album via Atlantic Records, in partnership with Centricity Music. Led by GRAMMY-winning producer Mike Elizondo (Twenty One Pilots, Mary J. Blige, Fiona Apple, Carrie Underwood), Lauren Daigle features co-writes with award-winning songwriters, including Natalie Hemby, Amy Wadge, Shane McAnally, Jason Ingram, Lori McKenna, and Jon Greene. The album marks a new creative chapter for the Louisiana-born artist.

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Since the release of her GRAMMY Award-winning, platinum-certified 2018 album Look Up Child – which includes the breakthrough, newly-6x platinum-certified hit single “You Say” – Daigle has been a mainstay on the Billboard charts. When Look Up Child debuted at No. 3 on the Top 200 Albums chart, Daigle became the first female artist in history to simultaneously hit the Top 10 on both Billboard’s Pop and Christian Album charts. She went on to break another record when the LP reached 100 weeks at No. 1 on the Top Christian Albums chart, which is the greatest number of weeks that any artist has spent at the top of any individual album chart. Similarly, “You Say” is the longest-running No. 1 to appear on any weekly Billboard chart. Born in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Daigle is a two-time Grammy, seven-time Billboard Music Award, four-time American Music Award, and ten-time GMA Dove Music Award winner.

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Brandon Lake Hits Number One On The Christian & Gospel Albums Chart With ‘Coat Of Many Colors’

5X GRAMMY® Award-winner Brandon Lake continues his hot streak around the release of his latest album, COAT OF MANY COLORS. The new project catapulted to the top of the Christian & Gospel Albums Chart in the number one spot, while Lake also notched a multi-week number one song on Mediabase’s Christian Audience Chart with “PRAISE YOU ANYWHERE.” Lake graced the famed New Music Friday Spotify billboard in Times Square, the YouTube slot on the prominent Nashville Sign, and was highlighted by Amazon Music on Nashville’s Fifth and Broadway sign. Adding to the excitement, it was just announced that Lake is a finalist for 4 Billboard Music Awards: Top Christian Artist, Top Christian Album, Top Christian Song, and Top Gospel Song.

He capped off the massive release week with a blitz of wins at the Dove Awards including: Worship Recorded Song, Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song, Songwriter-Artist of the Year, and the coveted Artist of the Year honor. The “big winner” (SiriusXM) also took to the stage for “rousing performances with Phil Wickham of ‘This Is Our God’ and ‘Gratitude’” (The Tennessean).

Audiences can watch an exclusive “encouraging performance” of COAT OF MANY COLORS’ title track on Grammy.com for their video series Positive Vibes Only.  People.com also gave Lake’s new album some love, noting the project “gave him the freedom to explore a wide range of genres” while calling “Praise You Anywhere” a “massive success” and dubbing “Country Psalm” a “powerful song.” Additionally, Lake released his new music video for “Miracle Child”

Earlier this month, Lake was honored at ASCAP’s Christian Music Awards as Songwriter of the Year. He recently captivated audiences on Lauren Daigle’s The Kaleidoscope Tour, and is currently headlining his nearly sold out Coat Of Many Colors Tour that just launched on October 26 in Tyler, TX.

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Winter Jam 2024 Lineup Announced

Winter Jam, Christian music’s biggest tour, is back for 2024! Announced this evening on social media, Winter Jam ’24 will feature Crowder, Lecrae, CAIN, Katy Nichole, Seventh Day Slumber, and hosts NewSong. Pre-Jam artists include SEU Worship, John Wesley, and Lin D. Zane Black is included as a speaker and Joseph O’Brien will be a special guest.

winterjam2024artists

The tour kicks off January 12, 2024 in Mobile, AL and runs through end of March 2024 with stops throughout the country. No tickets are needed and admission is $15 at the door.

winterjam2024dates

Created and hosted by one of Christian music’s most beloved bands, NewSong, Winter Jam exploded from a single show in 1995 to become Christian music’s benchmark tour. Throughout two decades, Winter Jam has helped provide a powerful platform for the Gospel in major arenas nationwide, consistently showcasing the genre’s top artists.

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[Album] JOY IS HERE – JJ HAIRSTON

Today, MNRK Music Group in partnership with JamesTown Music announce the new album JOY IS HERE, from GRAMMY-nominated, multiple Stellar Award winner, Billboard Music Award-winning, and Top Gospel Artist, JJ Hairston. Hairston releases his long-awaited first ever Christmas album, JOY IS HERE, recorded live in July 2023 at All Nations Worship Assembly (ANWA) Washington, DC. The album, JOY IS HERE, features a mix of holiday classics with Hairston’s signature style as well as originals. JOY IS HERE is available now wherever music is sold and streamed.

JOY IS HERE features stand out collaborations with Trina Hairston, Melvin Crispell, III, Brittney Wright, Jason Clayborn & Gathering Place Worship Choir and more. JJ Hairston will perform the album track, “Joy To The World” on Monday, November 6th on The Tamron Hall Show – marking his daytime television debut.

JOY IS HERE – JJ HAIRSTON

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Founded in 1991, the once 35-member church choir from Bridgeport, CT has transformed into a Billboard chart topping national gospel artist, birthing Billboard Gospel #1 hits such as, “You Deserve It,” and “Miracle Worker.” Currently, JJ Hairston is continuing his devotion to a greater purpose alongside his wife, Trina Hairston, serving as Campus Pastors for All Nations Worship Assembly (ANWA) Washington, DC campus.

Hairston will embark on a multi-city holiday tour at various City Winery locations this holiday season. The “JOY IS HERE” Tour will kick off November 20th in New York, making its way through Boston, Chicago, Nashville, Atlanta and more.

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[Download] Why I Believe – Katy Nichole Feat. Ellie Holcomb

Today (Nov 3), Katy Nichole releases “Why I Believe” feat. Ellie Holcomb.

Continuing to release songs filled with the unabashed honesty and impeccable artistry that have made the 23-year-old one of Christian music’s fastest-rising talents, Nichole’s first three radio singles have all hit the top of the charts.

Why I Believe – Katy Nichole Feat. Ellie Holcomb

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Crossroads Music Releases Five Re-Imagined Songs

Following the March 2023 release of their live project I Will Remember (BEC Recordings), Crossroads Music drops their I Will Remember – Sessions EP today. Re-recording five of their previously released worship songs (including focus tracks “Always Moving” and “Take Me Deeper”) into organic and acoustic raw reinterpretations with folk and Americana instrumentation, I Will Remember – Sessions EP was produced by Aaron Robertson (Elevation Worship, Red Rocks, Jesus Culture).

The group collectively shares, “We’re incredibly excited and humbled to release this record. We believe it will not only give our church useful songs for worship, but also dangerous prayers, petitions, and proclamations to a God that’s wild about us and the adventurous life he’s given us.”

I Will Remember – Crossroads Music

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Crossroads Music is part of Cincinnati, Ohio-based Crossroads Church. Influenced by collectives such as Elevation Worship, Passion, and Bethel Music, “We are a church that exists for people who have given up on church but not necessarily on God. We write songs that are simple enough for people to carry in their back pockets and tasteful enough to lend fresh language and sound to the hymns of the past with a mix of the spices we have on our team; country, gospel, and rock.”

Most of all, it is the hope of Crossroads Music to grow its team of leaders and invest in the students – the future leaders, songwriters, teachers, and theologians – within their church community. “They need what we have and they need to have the freedom to grow and fail…we want to be the creatives that we wish we’d had when we were their age.”

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