Today (Nov 8), Bethel Music releases “Center (Live)” led by guest artist Abbie Gamboa. The track is a sincere love song that radiates adoration for Jesus and beautifully captures the heart of placing Christ in His rightful place at the center of our lives, reminding listeners that everything we do should be for His honor and glory. This song is from the group’s upcoming project, We Must Respond, due out January 10, 2025.

WE MUST RESPOND was recorded earlier this year at the Cascade Theatre in Redding, California, and is a collection of worship songs featuring tracks led by the Bethel Music collective, with guest vocalists that include Brooke Ligertwood, Abbie Gamboa, and Aodhán King. 

Center (Live) – Bethel Music Feat. Abbie Gamboa

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The album is a heartfelt call to action from Bethel Church’s Bill Johnson, inspired by Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God,” invites believers into a holy exchange between the Spirit of God and the hearts of those who seek Him and long to know Him. There in that place of deep surrender is where genuine, true worship takes place.

Center (Live) – Bethel Music Feat. Abbie Gamboa

Says Jenn Johnson of Bethel Music, “We Must Respond…when we think about His presence, His goodness, love, mercy, salvation, the simple fact that we’re breathing, our hearts are filled with gratitude. He is our everything, and we can’t help but respond to Him and give Him our worship.”

Songs From The Soil (SFTS) unveils the last of their four-part collection of stripped-back “Live At The Garden” EPs. The new release comes from British songwriter and session guitarist, Marc James. This fourth addition features six acoustic songs that ooze with Marc’s signature alternative undertones. Originally released on YouTube, these songs bring together some of Marc’s catalog as well as others by various Integrity Music artists.

Songs From The Soil Release Last Of Four Part Collection

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The heart behind the “Live At The Garden” series carries on what Songs From The Soil was birthed to do, namely reigniting the UK Church’s songbook by creating spaces where new songs of worship might grow. The Garden is a space in the Integrity Music UK offices created to capture organic and unpolished songs and BTS showing the human element in creativity and the live worship process.

The ethos is for it to be, like a garden, a living, raw, grounding place where others are also invited. “Marc James – Live At The Garden” closes this collection of over 20 songs infused with the flavour of their local context, capturing a return to the land through melody and sung theology.

Well, it’s that time of year again and today, Sam Bowman & GLADDEN have teamed up to release their new Christmas song, “Misfit Toys”. This fun and energetic tune will brighten up your spirits during the cold weather nights.  The song was produced by Sam Bowman and co-written by Sam Bowman and GLADDEN.

“This song was inspired by 1 Corinthians 1. God used what was despised by man to save us from our sin- that’s what we celebrate at Christmas! We wanted to write this to encourage listeners that no matter what the world thinks, God is happy to use the outcast and the rejected to give Him glory.” – Sam Bowman

Sam Bowman & GLADDEN Release “Misfit Toys”

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“‘Misfit Toys’ is a fun, abstract take on Christmas music. I had a blast creating this song with the legendary Sam Bowman. This song was written as an anthem for Christians who feel like outcasts in the world. Our identity is not meant to be rooted in the world, but rather in the Love that Jesus proved through His Life, Death, and Resurrection!”- GLADDEN

“Misfit Toys” will also be on this year’s Dream Christmas Vol. 8 featuring Faith Worship Arts w/John Dreher and Sydney James, Coquí and Run51 w/Roxanne Grace.  The EP is set to release on December 6th.

With his latest holiday release, “Wonder Bells,” Cincinnati’s own David Paul Brooks, aka DPB, brings a spirited fusion of hip-hop and worship to the Christmas season. Known for his uplifting lyrics and deep-rooted faith, DPB combines catchy beats with heartfelt, meaningful rhymes, creating a track that’s both celebratory and spiritually resonant.

For listeners familiar with his previous hit, “I Feel So Good Today (Happy Mix),” this new single offers an even more focused message on the joy and significance of the Christmas season, centered around faith and devotion to God.

Musically, “Wonder Bells” is bright and infectious, with an upbeat tempo that maintains a holiday vibe through rich instrumental layers and sleigh bell undertones. DPB’s delivery is warm and enthusiastic, his voice both grounded and energetic, leading listeners through verses that highlight his personal journey and dedication to spreading a positive message.

The lyrics offer a modern call to faith, urging listeners to “give their hearts to God” and find renewal through Christ. Repeating phrases like “He is Christ, He is Lord, He’s the King of Kings” gives the song a chant-like, celebratory structure, perfect for bringing people together in praise during the festive season.

Wonder Bells – DPB

DPB’s skillful use of storytelling shines as he shares how his life was transformed by faith, making the song relatable to listeners who are either on their own journey or searching for inspiration. Lines like “He’s the one who changed my life, I gave Him everything” carry a genuine reverence that complements the song’s seasonal warmth. The track’s central theme of gathering around the “new dinner table” adds a beautiful metaphor, encouraging families and friends to come together in gratitude and worship.

The production is clean and polished, capturing DPB’s rhythmic flow and keeping the focus on the song’s uplifting message. Despite being a holiday song, “Wonder Bells” doesn’t lean too heavily into typical Christmas sounds, giving it a refreshing versatility and a modern twist that will appeal to fans of contemporary Christian and positive hip-hop alike. The result is a song that feels just as at home in a church gathering as it would on a family playlist for the holiday season.

In a time where holiday music can often lean toward the commercial, DPB’s “Wonder Bells” is a meaningful reminder of the season’s true spirit, offering encouragement and faith-centered joy. It’s a track that not only celebrates but invites listeners to experience the transformative power of faith. For fans of uplifting Christian music, “Wonder Bells” is sure to become a go-to for years to come.

Rating: 9/10 

Gospel music minister Sunday Peters is thrilled to announce the release of his latest single, “Eli Eli,” a heartfelt worship song that exalts God’s greatness. To coincide with this exciting milestone, Sunday Peters is also celebrating his birthday today.

“Eli Eli,” translated to “My God, My God” in English, is a soul-stirring ballad that showcases Sunday Peters’ exceptional vocal talent and deep passion for worship. The song is a poignant expression of devotion, faith, and trust in God’s sovereignty.

“Eli Eli is a personal reflection of my relationship with God. It’s a cry of surrender, acknowledging His presence in every aspect of my life.” – Sunday Peters

Eli Eli – Sunday Peters

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As Sunday Peters celebrates his birthday, he expresses gratitude to family, friends, and fans for their unwavering support. “Today, I’m reminded of God’s faithfulness and love. I’m honored to share this special day with the release of ‘Eli Eli’ – a gift to the world.”

On Saturday, December 14 at 8:00 p.m., Carnegie Hall presents A Night of Inspiration, a celebratory evening of music and dance from diverse traditions in Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage. Under the direction of acclaimed producer, composer, and music director Ray Chew, and co-produced with his wife and business partner, Vivian Scott Chew, the exciting, uplifting program returns to the Hall for the fifth time.

The night highlights a star-studded roster of artists including Regina Belle, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Erica Campbell featuring Krista Campbell, Tina Campbell, Isaac Carree, Olen Cesari, Melvin Crispell, Doug E. Fresh, Cory Henry, Dave Hollister, Rahsaan Patterson, Kierra Sheard-Kelly, Bishop Hezekiah Walker, Brian Courtney Wilson and Juan Winans.

The stellar lineup will be accompanied by a 64-piece orchestra and a 150-voice multicultural choir for a special evening paying tribute to the pioneering gospel quartet The Winans.

“We are beyond excited to be producing our 5th “Night of Inspiration”.  It has been our honor to be given the opportunity to present unique programming at the iconic Carnegie Hall for the past 15 years.” – Ray and Vivian Chew

Carnegie Hall’s rewarding collaboration with Ray and Vivian Chew began fifteen years ago in 2009, when Ray served as musical director for two concerts during Carnegie Hall’s festival, Honor!, celebrating the African American cultural legacy with artists spanning blues, jazz, gospel, R&B, soul, and beyond.

The duo has since presented four sold-out A Night of Inspiration productions in Stern Auditorium / Perelman Stage to packed audiences featuring a large-scale orchestra joined by high profile artists from the gospel and secular communities.

The Chews have been involved in a number of other notable Carnegie Hall performances throughout the years including A Tribute to Motown, paying homage to the distinctive soul sound of the legendary record label’s over 50-year legacy; a one-of-a kind participatory concert featuring gospel music’s biggest stars.

Donnie McClurkin and Kim Burrell; The Music of Stevie Wonder, a sing-a-long performance honoring the iconic performer’s beloved songbook and featuring R&B stars Leela James and BeBe Winans; and Sounds of Change, featuring a stellar cast of artists performing folk songs and R&B classics that defined a generation, as part of Carnegie Hall’s citywide festival The ‘60s: The Years that Changed America.

In summer 2019, as part of the free Carnegie Hall Citywide concert series, Ray and Vivian brought A Night of Inspiration to Bryant Park for an uplifting evening under the stars; they presented Ray Chew Live!, another lively outdoor celebration, in Denny Farrell Riverbank State Park and the Robert F. Smith Center for the Performing Arts in the fall 2021.

Today, JamesTown Music, founded by GRAMMY-nominated and multiple Stellar Award winner, JJ Hairston, have announced the signing of a deal finalizing a partnership between Motown Gospel and JamesTown Music. This announcement, comes just a few weeks ahead of the 25th anniversary reunion musical live recording of JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise. The 25th anniversary live recording, will mark the first project under the newly formed partnership between Motown Gospel and JamesTown Music.

The 25th anniversary reunion live recording of JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise will feature reimagined versions of their Billboard chart-topping #1 hits, iconic and classic songs, along with new music that showcases the choir’s continued relevance and Hairston’s powerful, spirit-filled leadership.

Special guest artists set to take the stage include: Tamela Mann, Jonathan McReynolds, Melvin Crispell III, Tim Bowman Jr, Wendy Wyatt, Anthem Nights Music, Janae Jones and Jumbo (Nigerian artist).

The anniversary recording is set to take place Saturday, November 23rd at The Gathering Place (4703 Marlboro Pike, Capitol Heights, MD) at 6PM.

Reflecting on the journey, JJ Hairston shared, “This milestone is a testament to God’s faithfulness and the passion of everyone involved in Youthful Praise over the years. We’ve experienced so many moments of joy, challenges, and inspiration. This recording is not just a reunion; it’s a reminder of our purpose and calling in ministry.”

Known for their vibrant sound, powerful worship, and deeply inspirational songs, JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise have been trailblazers in contemporary gospel music, reaching listeners worldwide with hits like “Thankful,” “Lord of All,” and “Awesome God” Founded in 1991, the once 35-member church choir from Bridgeport, CT has transformed into a Billboard chart topping national gospel artist, releasing 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 Senior Pastors of The Gathering Place DC.

“Signing JJ Hairston and Jamestown Music to Motown Gospel is a thrilling step for us. JJ’s powerful voice and impactful ministry have already transformed lives across the globe, and we’re excited to bring his unique vision and passion to our label.

This partnership is about elevating voices that inspire, and we’re honored to have JJ and his team join the Motown Gospel family as we continue our mission to reach hearts through exceptional music,” shares VP of Artist Development Head of Motown Gospel and TAMLA, Walter Thomas.

Multi-Grammy and GMA Dove Award winning Steven Curtis Chapman was officially welcomed into the Grand Ole Opry family tonight by Opry members Lady A. In addition to Lady A, Chapman personally requested these artists be a part of his special night: Opry members Ricky Skaggs– who invited Chapman to become an Opry member this summer– and Carly Pearce, plus Russell Dickerson and rock band Colony House, which featured two of Chapman’s sons, front man Caleb Chapman and drummer Will Franklin Chapman. For the special occasion, Chapman wore a custom suit designed by Manuel Cuevas’ son Manny Jr.

To begin his performance, Chapman sang “Cinderella” and “He Stopped Loving Her Today” after telling the story about forgetting the words to that song during his Opry debut when he was a teenaged performer at Opryland Theme Park. He was then joined by his father and brother to perform “My Redeemer Is Faithful and True,” offering his father a lifelong dream to sing on the Opry stage.

Lady A joined him on stage to welcome him into the family with kind words about his life and music including how he inspires with the gifts God has given him, how he encourages with his integrity and authentic faith and a deep love of music every time he steps into the circle.

“More than we can ask or imagine, God has promised,” said Chapman. “I know it doesn’t always look like this moment, but I do believe God has so much more for us. And sometimes we get to see it in very tangible and real ways. Like standing in this circle on stage tonight. As I look down, there is an actual light that glows all the way around it. A full circle, an unbroken circle. God is in front and back and side to side, he has us surrounded.”

Chapman then performed a song he wrote specifically for this night, “Grand Ole Opry Stage” and closed with a performance of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” with members of his family, performers from tonight’s show and a handful of Opry members who attended the show.

Chapman and the Opry kicked off National Adoption Month today by donating $5 from each ticket sold to benefit Show Hope, the nonprofit organization founded by Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife, Mary Beth, that provides ongoing care and support to children who have been orphaned and families impacted by adoption and foster care.

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 the Opryland USA theme park, singing the songs of Opry greats including George Jones, Ricky Skaggs and more.

Chapman is also scheduled to perform on this season’s Opry Country Christmas. The Opry member 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 (12/1), Lorrie Morgan (12/2), The Oak Ridge Boys (12/4), Scotty McCreery (12/5), Chris Young (12/8), Chris Janson (12/11), Jamey Johnson (12/16), and more.

7x Stellar Award-winner and 2x Grammy-nominated Billboard-topping Chicago-native artist, VaShawn Mitchell, will be hosting a star-studded birthday celebration concert celebrating 25 years in the music industry! This “25 Years of Music” celebration will take place on Saturday, November 16 at Greenwood Oasis starting at 6pm.

Special performances of the night include the viral sensation Lisa Page Brooks (“Yeah yeah yeah yeah”), Beverly Crawford (“He’s Done Enough”), Tasha Page Lockhart (BET Sunday Best Season 6 Winner / WEtv’s Grown and Gospel), Meachum Clarke, Randy Weston (“For My Good”),  famed R&B crooner Dave Hollister (“One Woman Man”), and 3x Grammy Award-winning icon, Donnie McClurkin (“Stand”/”We Fall Down”). 

There will also be an exciting reunion of two choirs that have played an integral role to his career: Bishop Larry Trotter and Sweet Holy Spirit Choir and New Image Chorale. Aside from Mitchell’s own award-winning catalog including “Nobody Greater”, “Turning Around for Me”, and “Joy”, this night is sure to be a night filled with great memories and music.

When asked about this milestone, he says, “Wow, 25 years? It’s amazing how time flies and I’m truly grateful for the longevity that God has given me to impact churches around the world. Anyone who knows me knows that I write music for churches.  It’s always been my goal to create music that church choirs and praise teams can incorporate in their regular worship experiences, and it is truly a blessing to see the lives that have been touched both here in the states and abroad.”

He continues, “Since this moment is so important to me, I felt it was important to celebrate this moment where it all began — here in Chicago. Chicago is where I got my start and it’s Chicago that I want to commemorate this moment with.”

In 2011 Mitchell had his first breakout single, “Nobody Greater” that put him on the map in both gospel and mainstream audiences as a solo artist. The song spent 9 weeks at #1 on Billboard charts and Billboard later named him the “#1 Gospel Artist of the Year” and named “Nobody Greater” as the most played song of the year.

He was also nominated for two Grammys that year for “Contemporary R&B Gospel Album” and “Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Performance”. He’s continued to soar in his career by amassing three more Billboard #1 singles including, “Joy” (2017), “Lifted Up” (2021), and “See the Goodness” featuring Donnie McClurkin (2024).

Aside from his own expansive catalog of music, Mitchell has also been one of the industry’s heaviest contributors to writing and/or producing some of the industry’s most iconic hits.

Such hits include:

• “Break Every Chain” by Tasha Cobbs Leonard (Mitchell was the song’s Producer and he was the Executive Producer of the entire album entitled, Grace)
• “Trouble Don’t Last Always” by Bishop Larry Trotter and Sweet Holy Spirit (Producer)
• “My Worship is For Real” by Bishop Larry Trotter and Sweet Holy Spirit (Writer and Producer)
• “It’s Only a Test” by Bishop Larry Trotter and Sweet Holy Spirit (Writer and Producer)

This Harvey, IL native (who has a street named after him in the city), is bringing it all back home to celebrate this awesome milestone of 25 Years of music.  

Bethel Music singer/songwriters and worship leaders Paul and Hannah McClure, announce the re-release of their acclaimed 2020 holiday album, “CHRISTMAS MORNING.” Available now on all streaming platforms, this updated edition features new live recordings that enrich the original album, providing both longtime fans and new listeners an opportunity for deeper engagement and worship.

“CHRISTMAS MORNING” invites worshippers into the heart of the season, capturing its awe and wonder. With powerful performances and heartfelt lyrics, Paul and Hannah usher in Christmas, guiding us through a journey of worship and reflection, reminding us of the joy and wonder that the season brings.

Paul & Hannah McClure Re-Release Acclaimed ‘Christmas Morning’ Album

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The 11-track collection includes original selections co-penned by Paul and Hannah, as well as a handful of beloved Christmas favorites. “Adore Him (Live at Bethel),” led by Paul, is a beautiful expression of praise and thanksgiving, encouraging listeners to focus on the worthiness of Jesus and appreciate the profound significance of His birth.

Meanwhile, Paul and Hannah breathe new life into the classic hymn, “O Holy Night (Live at Bethel),” blending traditional lyrics with a fresh worship-filled bridge, instilling hope and anticipation for the momentous occasion of our Savior’s birth.

“Every child’s excited for Christmas morning, and that’s what we get in relation to the Gospel as believers,” says Paul and Hannah. “Every day is Christmas morning living in the reality of Jesus and what He’s done for us. I think this song captures what we wanted to talk about—the Rescuer coming to save us at Christmas.”

“CHRISTMAS MORNING” TRACK LIST INCLUDES:

1.Christmas Morning

2. Heart Sings Hallelujah

3.Adore Him

4. Heaven Is Here

5. O Holy Night

6. High King of Heaven / Jesus We Love You

7. Heart Sings Hallelujah / Hark the Herald Angels Sing (Live at Bethel)

8. Heaven Is Here / Joy To The World (Live at Bethel)

9. Adore Him (Live at Bethel)

10. O Holy Night (Live at Bethel)

11. High King of Heaven / Jesus We Love You (Live at Bethel)