Award-Winning Zambian Gospel artist, Esther Chungu has released a brand new single titled “Fearless”.
According to Esther, She wrote this song with the help of her brother, @churchulukuta 7 years ago and she held on to it until now!
“We revisited it and got help from amazing song writers @mic_li_music and @bwanablaze . We went on to partner with two impeccable producers, @stone_rtd and @macknight_musician who co-produced it. We added guitar which was played by the talented @joshuazulu and added amazing singers who I’ve worked with for some years now, @lydiangomamusic @melia_tunes @joashmixz to contribute to the song and they delivered”, Esther said.
“Then one of the [twenty-four] elders said to me, “Stop weeping! Look closely, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome and conquered! He can open the scroll and [break] its seven seals.”” Revelation 5:5 AMP
Being Fearless in God is knowing that hard times will come but we will not be shaken! I cannot wait for you all to listen to it. I pray it blesses you as it has blessed us!
Still, the full-length debut from Dallas-based singer/songwriter, worship leader and multi-instrumentalist John Marc Kohl, is set to release October 7 from The Worship Initiative. Hallmarked by a range of genre-spanning influences, Still delivers deeply vulnerable, autobiographical themes grounded in the promises of God’s unyielding faithfulness.
Co-produced by Kohl and Will Hunt, with two tracks produced by Bryan Fowler (TobyMac, Newsboys), Kohl penned or co-penned the entire 12-song set, collaborating with such acclaimed songwriters as Fowler, Shane Barnard, Mike Donehey and The Worship Initiative’s Aaron Williams, among others.
“The album is a remembrance of the faithfulness of God through various points of my life,” Kohl says. “The themes that have emerged are dependence, struggle and faith, and I hope people can get to know me through these songs. My story—warts and all—points to Jesus. Oh, how He loves me, still. In spite of habitual sin, still. In the midst of doubt and depression, still. When I succumb to my pride and a false sense of superiority, still. There is no fault, sin, or failure too great, too deep, or too wide for the perfect blood of Jesus to cover.”
Project opener “Tapestry” is a soulful pop groove celebrating God’s goodness. “A few years ago, I went through a very dark season of what I would call a spiritual depression,” Kohl shares of the inspiration behind “Tapestry.” “While it felt like a breaking to my core, much beauty and good came from the suffering. We won’t always understand pain, but I know that God doesn’t waste it as He weaves a beautiful story of mercy and grace. We see glimpses of His faithfulness now, but how I long for the day when I can see the entire picture of His goodness, the wonder of His tapestry.”
Further exploring the thematic arc of God’s response to human pain and suffering, the album’s forthcoming single, “Desert Places” (feat. Demi Pyle), is slated to hit streaming platforms September 23. The poignant piano ballad conveys a desperation for renewal and healing as Kohl sings, “You meet me here/in the wilderness/You draw me near/and I’m comforted/I’m surrendering to Your embrace/seems You work best in desert places.”
In addition, the emotive title-track showcases a Savior who never tires of pursuing His children. “’Still’ was one of the first songs I ever wrote about Jesus,” Kohl recalls. “I remember staying up until 3 am, crying and struggling through the writing of it. I was so angry with myself because of persistent sin in my life, and I felt like I deserved more punishment. I really couldn’t believe that Jesus would still love me after all the messes I’ve made; the wreckage of sin in my life; and the people I’ve hurt. I’ll never fully understand the persistence of His love for His beloved.”
John Marc Kohl is a veteran worship leader, songwriter, and multi-faceted musician dedicated to glorifying God through music. An artist in residence at The Worship Initiative, Kohl and his wife, Lila, reside in Dallas.
Founded by Shane & Shane’s Shane Barnard and Shane Everett—leading influencers of corporate worship around the world for nearly two decades—The Worship Initiative is an equipping ministry which features a library of hundreds of popular worship songs; team training materials; instrument tutorials; and song-based devotionals, among other offerings. The Dallas-based organization has released more than 30 albums to date, and its unique community of artists, songwriters and theologians seeks to be a catalyst for musical and spiritual growth in the Church.
‘Onipotente/Omnipotent’ was written and recorded when a gathering of worship leaders from all over the world met up and began to express their shared passion in glorifying and honoring God through reverential worship.
Gabi Sampaio, from Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Lucy Grimble from London, UK, and Laura Hackett Park of Kansas City, USA met at the recent REVERE gathering when they crafted language to describe our mighty God. ‘Onipotente/Omnipotent’ is a house of prayer-style song that declares God’s majesty, reminding the Church that we serve an omnipotent God whose power and might are unlimited and unmatched.
The blend of voices, grand piano, and emotive cello lines capture the organic essence of the unscripted worship night during which the single was recorded. This song goes back and forth between the two languages in a unique and reverential way.
‘Be Unto Your Name’ is the debut EP from Anchor Hymns, a community of Integrity Music songwriters and artists who care deeply about the theology and the craft of the songs the Church sings. This initial project was inspired by old hymns that have carried the Church for generations and across denominations.
Andrew Osenga (A&R Director at Integrity Music) explains that three pillars continually showed up in those formative songs: “frank honesty about suffering and doubt, an acute awareness that we are in one specific time and place, and the reassurance that God is with us right here, right now, even in our suffering and doubt.” ‘Be Unto Your Name’ references the kind of music loved by this collective but rarely heard in church; full of soul and groove, these songs are unafraid to tackle the sounds of suffering and grief, as well as joy and celebration.
The new project features instruments most churches have on a Sunday, showcasing them in a slightly different way, hinting that perhaps “it will give a church somewhere some kind of permission to try something new,” Andrew adds. Through this project and at their core, Anchor Hymns hope to communicate one of the greatest things about church hymnody: that it removes the pressure, and pride, of our own importance. Church hymnody has been going on for centuries and it will continue long after us, as Andrew concludes: “It’s my hope that in this brief moment we are marked by truthfulness in what we say, usefulness in the way we offer it, and a kindness to whoever the Lord brings into our orbit.” The songs on ‘Be Unto Your Name’ are for funerals and home churches alike, in both traditional and modern houses of worship worldwide.
Award-winning Curb | Word Entertainment recording artist Blanca shares her third full-length studio album, The Heartbreak And The Healing, today (Sept. 23, 2022). The new collection offers two sides of the same story — the hurt and the redemption.
Written in the wake of a painful divorce, the songstress vulnerably cracks her heart wide open on the all new 14-track collection that beautifully showcases the merger of her unstoppable voice and her transparent lyricism.
A diverse fusion of pop, Latin, hip-hop and Gospel, the LP follows Blanca on a journey of self-discovery as she rises from the ashes stronger and more empowered than ever before.
The fresh set features chart-topping hit “Even At My Worst” and current radio single “The Healing (feat. Dante Bowe),” which the pair recently performed at the 2022 K-LOVE Fan Awards, where Blanca was nominated for Female Artist of the Year.
The Heartbreak And The Healing was produced by Anton Göransson and Taylor Hill.
Matt Redman introduces new single ‘Son of Suffering’ announcing an upcoming album. The song was penned by Redman alongside worship leaders and writers David Funk, Aaron Moses, and Nate Moore. ‘Son of Suffering’ encapsulates the mysterious beauty of Christ’s blood and tears, as Redman notes that, “as well as taking us to the cross and celebrating how Jesus fought for our salvation there, this song is also about His solidarity with us in our own pain.”
The new single brings remembrance to the Church that Jesus didn’t just look down upon the world’s pain but came down and met us in our struggle. A sense of divine acquainted with grief and suffering shines through the song, painting a worshipful picture of Jesus’ humility and compassion.
“I think that might be a key thing to sing about this… so many people came out of the pandemic lockdown and are still experiencing an unusually tough season,” Redman adds. ‘Son of Suffering’ carries on the worship leader’s passion to find new ways of singing about the eternally glorious theme of the cross of Christ. Pursuing the sacred call of helping the Church to sing, Redman hopes that ‘Son of Suffering’ helps illuminate the heart of Jesus to any who sing it.
Keith and Kristyn Getty, the world’s foremost contemporary hymn writers and performers, will release a new studio album on Friday containing eleven new tracks celebrating the eternal confidence and hope found in our resurrected Savior.
Christ Our Hope in Life and Death showcases the Gettys’ signature sound and features an array of special guest collaborators such as Michael W. Smith, Rend Collective, Skye Peterson, Matt Boswell, Matt Papa, a full gospel choir, and a special guest appearance by the Getty daughters. The album is produced by Grammy Award-winner Bryan Fowler and Ben Shive.
Christ Our Hope in Life and Death is replete with new hymns that are written for congregational singing and whose lyrics are filled with joy, confidence, and hope. Standout tracks include “The Lord Almighty Reigns,” which was recently debuted by the Gettys in a live performance at the legendary Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, with thousands singing along and proclaiming the majesty of our God and the glory of that future day when every tribe, tongue, and language will triumphantly proclaim “Hallelujah, the Lord Almighty reigns.” The album’s focus track, “Rejoice,” features Rend Collective and is inspired by the Apostle Paul’s famous statement, “Rejoice in the Lord always, I say it again, rejoice.” “Take Shelter” features singer/songwriter and Getty Music hymn writing team member, Skye Peterson, and is a hope-stirring reminder that there is only one place where we can find true refuge and rest: the loving arms of Christ.
The album also includes two versions of the title track, “Christ Our Hope in Life and Death” – a Radio Mix as well as a second recording based on a different musical arrangement. Both recordings feature the vocals of multiple Grammy Award-winning Christian music artist Michael W. Smith, marking the first time these artists have recorded together. With lyrics that offer comfort that our faith in Jesus will help us through every challenge we face, this hymn gave hope to millions during the pandemic and very quickly became one of the fastest-growing songs in Christian music, according to CCLI (the organization that licenses music to religious institutions).
As part of the Christ Our Hope in Life and Death album release, Getty Music will be featuring an array of new content on its website in the coming weeks, including new lyric videos for each song, information about the making of the album, live performance clips from the upcoming fall tour, and more.
To download Christ Our Hope in Life and Death, or for more information on Keith & Kristyn Getty, please visit www.gettymusic.com
Inaugurating a highly anticipated new season for the beloved multi-GRAMMY Award-winning The Brooklyn Tabernacle, A Night of Worship with The Brooklyn Tabernacle is set to bow October 21. The world-renowned ensemble’s first new recording in more than four years also marks their debut with StowTown Worship, an imprint of powerhouse Gospel label StowTown Records.
Produced by The Brooklyn Tabernacle’s founding musical director, Carol Cymbala, along with J. Daniel Smith, the 11-track live recording spotlights guest turns from Gospel icon Alvin Slaughter, Dove Award-winning vocalist TaRanda Greene, and Elevation Worship’s Brad Hudson. Throughout the collection, the group’s signature sound takes centerstage atop Inspirational, Gospel and contemporary melodies enveloped in sweeping orchestral arrangements.
“After almost a year-and-a-half of being away from each other in person, it was amazing to get back together to worship, pray and sing for the Lord,” shares Carol Cymbala of the new recording. “A lot changed in Brooklyn during the pandemic, and the need is even greater now to shine our light for Jesus. Seasons change, but God remains faithful. Many have left Brooklyn and relocated due to the terrible COVID spikes, increased crime, and deterioration of the city, but the Lord has once again raised up a faithful group of devoted singers who want to spread the Gospel and glorify God.”
Album opener “There’s Nothing Better” (feat. TaRanda Greene and Brad Hudson) plots a joyful course for a range of impassioned anthems proclaiming God’s goodness, faithfulness and worthiness to be praised. The energetic Alvin Slaughter-led “For My Good” further fuels an atmosphere of authentic worship, while group favorite “He’s Been Faithful” (feat. Greene) also stands among the project’s many highlights.
“At the lowest point in my life, God greatly used Pastor Jim and Mrs. Carol Cymbala to help me find a new hope in living,” explains Greene of her personal ties to the congregation. “This church family has been there for me in ways they will never realize until we get home.”
“I’ve been recording songs with The Brooklyn Tabernacle for 12 years now, and this album reflects every heartfelt moment I can recall,” Greene adds. “I hope audiences will experience what I do when I hear this music—a sound of home that calls you closer to the feet of Jesus.”
“We want to remind people that God is faithful, and His love never changes,” Cymbala says. “We pray that the new project will inspire hope instead of fear (‘I Will Not Fear,’ ‘He’s Holding You’) and deepen our faith in Jesus Christ (‘I Speak Jesus,’ ‘You Have Been Good’). The songs we’ve recorded are all based on the eternal Truth of God’s Word, which can never change or pass away.”
“It’s a new season for The Brooklyn Tabernacle and I feel this project reflects that,” Cymbala concludes. “There’s a freshness to the sound but the message remains focused on Jesus and His great love. The songs and rhythms are different stylistically and the lush orchestrations greatly enhance the listening experience. I’m excited that we can present what I feel is the best project God has ever helped us to do.”
Grammy Award winning rock band Switchfoot announces their new LP, this is our Christmas album, out November 4th. Marking the band’s first-ever holiday record, this is our Christmas album finds Switchfoot infusing their signature West Coast sound to a number of holiday classics and five, new original Christmas songs. Cheery, nostalgic and brimming with sunshine, the 11 track collection was inspired by everyone from the Beach Boys to Black Flag, and promises to be the perfect soundtrack for the holiday season with a new California twist.
“Christmas is an emotional treasure chest for a songwriter to pull from,” lead Singer Jon Foreman says. “It’s a season stretched tight with contradictions: celebrating the free gifts of love and grace with an outburst of materialist capitalist consumption. An emotional roller coaster of family and friends, hopes and scars- bringing out the worst and the best in all of us.” A project that’s been years in the making, this is our Christmas album, wraps its arms wide around these contradictions.
Alongside the album announcement, Switchfoot announces their North American “this is our Christmas tour” which sees the band visiting Napa, Detroit, Monterey, Anaheim and more. Switchfoot’s live show is a force to be reckoned with, and the band’s first Christmas tour is no exception. Since the band’s creation they’ve performed to sold out audiences in over 40 countries and have racked up over five million tickets sold. These shows are going to be special as the group, that’s been described as “definition of cool” by Vulture, will perform one Christmas themed set, and another set filled with the band’s classic hits like “Dare You To Move,” “Meant to Live” and more.
“It’s truly incredible the way music connects us all: making even strangers feel like family,” Jon Foreman says.“To celebrate this season, singing these songs together in the same room is a gift that we can’t wait to unwrap. We’re so excited to head out on our first Christmas tour ever!”
Artist pre-sale begins today, September 7th at 12pm local time, local tour pre-sales start Thursday, September 8th at 10am local time, and general tour on-sale begins Friday, September 9th at 12pm local time. See below for full routing.
this is our Christmas album is a follow up to 2021’s interobang, which saw the band opt for raw 60’s era pop-infused feel and straying away from their typical rock sound. Penned through the pandemic, interrobang celebrates the journey when the destination is unsure. It illustrates the contrast between joy and pain, faith and doubt, and marks a bold new creative peak for the multi-platinum rockers.
THIS IS OUR CHRISTMAS TOUR ROUTING:
Saturday, November 26, 2022 – Knoxville, TN – Civic Auditorium
Sunday, November 27, 2022 – Huntsville, AL – Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
Tuesday, November 29, 2022 – Charleston, WV – Clay Center
Thursday, December 1, 2022 – Akron, OH – Goodyear Theater
Friday, December 2, 2022 – Fort Wayne, IN – Clyde Theatre
Saturday, December 3, 2022 – Ashland, KY – Paramount Arts Center
Sunday, December 4, 2022 – Jim Thorpe, PA – Penn’s Peak
Tuesday, December 6, 2022 – Reading, PA – Santander PAC
Wednesday, December 7, 2022 – Detroit, MI – Motor City Casino
Friday, December 9, 2022 – Kansas City, MO – Uptown Theater
Saturday, December 10, 2022 – Wichita, KS – The Cotillion
Sunday, December 11, 2022 – Boulder, CO – Boulder Theater
Wednesday, December 14, 2022 – Redding, CA – Cascade Theatre**
Thursday, December 15, 2022 – Napa, CA – Uptown Theatre
Friday, December 16, 2022 – Monterey, CA – Golden State Theatre
Saturday, December 17, 2022 – Anaheim, CA – City National Grove
Sunday, December 18, 2022 – Mesa, AZ – Ikeda Theatre
**Artist Pre-Sale: 9/9 – 9/13 / General On-Sale: Wed 9/14
Gospel music minister, Adeola Isaiah has released a new single titled “Baba Ese”.
Baba Ese is a show of gratitude to God for keeping him (Adeola Isaiah) safe while he was growing up and for bringing him back to Christ after wandering from the fold of God. It also talks about the daily faithfulness of God to everyone who believes in Him.
Adeola Isaiah is a Gospel Minister who believes in drawing people to a place of intimacy with God.
