Over 130,000 Celebrate Christmas With Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith and Jordan Smith

Nashville, Tenn. (Dec. 20, 2016) - With 32 shows nationwide, an excess of 130,000 people celebrated the holiday season with Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith and Jordan Smith. Kicking off on Nov. 11 at Los Angeles’ Dolby Theater, multi-platinum selling and GRAMMY® award winning artists Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith co-billed their popular symphony-filled Christmas tour joined by Republic recording artist Jordan Smith, Season 9 winner of NBC’s “The Voice.” Under the direction of Musical Director and Conductor David Hamilton, the annual holiday tour included stops in Phoenix, Seattle, Portland, Indianapolis, Detroit, Dallas, Tulsa, Minneapolis, Atlanta and more. Grant also returned to Nashville’s iconic Ryman Auditorium for nine performances with husband Vince Gill, aptly titled “Christmas At The Ryman.”

Photo Credit: Dale Lynch. From left to right: Michael W. Smith honored by RIAA for his 16 RIAA certified projects. Jordan Smith, Amy Grant, David Hamilton (Music Director and Conductor), Michael W. Smith.

Amidst the highlights of the 23 symphony-infused tour stops, the curated night of holiday music included stylings from Grant’s first all-new Christmas album in nearly 20 years Tennessee Christmas alongside the first holiday album from Jordan Smith, titled ’Tis The Season. While performing songs from his 2014 release, The Spirit of Christmas, Michael W. Smith was surprised on the final night of the tour in Baltimore by Mitch Glazier of the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), commemorating his 16 RIAA certified projects. 

Concertgoers united in supporting kids in need around the globe through Operation Christmas Child, known for distributing over 135 million shoeboxes of Christmas gifts to children in need in 150 countries. To learn more about Operation Christmas Child visit samaritanspurse.org/occ. The Christmas tour was in part made possible by the Israel Ministry of Tourism. For more information, visit Land-of-the-bible.com.

A taste of the popular tour was shared by BYUtv with multiple airings of “Christmas Under the Stars.”


About Amy Grant:
Amy Grant's career spans more than 30 years and stretches from her roots in gospel into becoming an iconic pop star, songwriter, television personality and philanthropist. With three multi-platinum albums, six platinum albums and four gold albums, her total career album sales have exceeded 30 million. Grant’s chart success has been consistent throughout her career with six No. 1 hits, 10 Top 40 pop singles, 17 Top 40 Adult Contemporary tracks and multiple Contemporary Christian chart-toppers. In addition to her six GRAMMY® Awards, Grant has earned 26 Dove Awards (including four Artist of the Year Awards) and has been awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Conventional wisdom has it that Grant put Contemporary Christian Music on the map becoming the first Contemporary Christian artist to have a platinum record, the first to hit No. 1 on the Pop charts and the first to perform at the GRAMMY® Awards. With that, her legacy as one of the most influential artists of the past four decades is assured. In April, Grant celebrated the 25th anniversary of her iconic hit “Baby Baby” with a worldwide release of the song featuring pop sensation Tori Kelly. Tennessee Christmas marks Grant’s first all-new holiday album in nearly 20 years.

Get Connected with Amy Grant:
www.amygrant.com

About Michael W. Smith:
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 32 No. 1 songs, received 2x RIAA Multi Platinum, 6 Platinum and 16 Gold certified albums, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award and 45 Dove Awards. Amassing an in-depth catalog of achievements, Smith was honored at ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary for his groundbreaking career and significant influence in music. He performed at Former First Lady Barbara Bush’s 90th birthday celebration and also had the privilege to join Former President Clinton, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson and others in remembering victims in the 20th Anniversary of the Oklahoma City attacks. Smith was appointed by the White House as Vice Chair for the President’s Council on service and civic participation and, most recently, was the featured performer at the 2015 USO Gala and recognized as a USO veteran. In addition to the international impact he has had through multiple global tours, he has written and composed various scored film projects, has authored 12 books, has acted in assorted motion pictures and has been featured by numerous national media outlets. He founded, and actively supports, the teen club Rocketown – a nonprofit outreach for teens, providing opportunities in arts, music, sports and mentoring programs. This year also marks the 25th anniversary in partnership with Compassion International, seeing more than seventy thousand families’ and children’s lives changed, around the world.

Get Connected with Michael W. Smith: 
www.michaelwsmith.com

About Jordan Smith:
Jordan Smith’s much anticipated debut album, Something Beautiful [LightWorkers Media/Republic Records], is available now everywhere. Throughout the album, his undeniable delivery and instantly recognizable range drives both original songs and cover tracks produced by legends such as GRAMMY® Award winning producer David Foster [Céline Dion, Michael Bublé, Josh Groban] and modern hit maker Stephan Moccio [The Weeknd, Ellie Goulding, Miley Cyrus]. The 22-year-old from Harlan, Ky., Jordan Smith stands out as the highest-selling artist to ever emerge from NBC’s EMMY AWARD®-winning “The Voice.” In less than six months, he sold over 1 million singles and made Voice history by landing eight songs in the iTunes Top 10—the first artist from any season to hit the iTunes Top 10 every single week of the Live Rounds. Of the eight songs that went Top 10 on iTunes, six hit Top 3, and three captured #1 on iTunes, all of which knocked Adele off the top spot! His first holiday album, 'Tis The Season, is available now.  

Get Connected with Jordan Smith:
www.jordansmithofficial.com

About Operation Christmas Child:
Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected more than 135 million gift-filled shoeboxes for children in more than 150 countries and territories. In 2016, Operation Christmas Child hopes to reach another 12 million children. To learn about year-round volunteer opportunities or to serve with Operation Christmas Child, visit samaritanspurse.org/occ.  

About Israel, the Land of the Bible:
In Israel, each day holds the possibility of a new discovery - the discovery of the ancient faith that is waiting to be lifted from the sand and soil like a treasure in a time capsule in the holiest land on Earth. Come visit the place where it all began. Follow in the footsteps of Jesus, and experience the Bible beyond its words. Embrace your spirituality in a place like no other on earth, and return forever transformed. Start your journey with us: Land-of-the-bible.com

# # #  

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Courtney Hyder
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
courtney@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Outtakes Revealed From Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith and Jordan Smith's Christmas Tour 2016

Tour to kick off on November 11 in Los Angeles

Nashville, Tenn. (Oct. 13, 2016) - In anticipation of the 2016 Christmas Tour kickoff, a humorous outtake reel from promotional footage with multi-platinum GRAMMY® winners Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith, joined by Jordan Smith, winner of NBC's The Voice, has been unveiled. The three artists obviously enjoy being together and the video contains outtakes from their attempts to record market specific liners for their tour. The 2016 Christmas Tour will begin on November 11 in Los Angeles, traveling to nearly 20 different major markets across the U.S. In addition, a portion of proceeds from the tour will help benefit Operation Christmas Child, known for distributing 135 million shoeboxes of Christmas gifts to children in need in 150 countries.

For more information on the 2016 Christmas Tour, visit amygrant.com/tour, michaelwsmith.com/tour or jordansmithofficial.com/tour.

About Amy Grant:
Amy Grant's career spans more than 30 years and stretches from her roots in gospel into becoming an iconic pop star, songwriter, television personality and philanthropist. With three multi-platinum albums, six platinum albums and four gold albums, her total career album sales have exceeded 30 million. Grant’s chart success has been consistent throughout her career with six No. 1 hits, 10 Top 40 pop singles, 17 Top 40 Adult Contemporary tracks and multiple Contemporary Christian chart-toppers. In addition to her six GRAMMY® Awards, Grant has earned 26 Dove Awards (including four Artist of the Year Awards) and has been awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Conventional wisdom has it that Grant put Contemporary Christian Music on the map becoming the first Contemporary Christian artist to have a platinum record, the first to hit No. 1 on the Pop charts and the first to perform at the GRAMMY® Awards. With that, her legacy as one of the most influential artists of the past four decades is assured. In April, Grant celebrated the 25th anniversary of her iconic hit “Baby Baby” with a worldwide release of the song featuring pop sensation Tori Kelly. Tennessee Christmas (Oct. 21, 2016) will mark Grant’s first all-new holiday album in nearly 20 years.

Get Connected with Amy Grant:
www.amygrant.com

About Michael W. Smith:
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 32 No. 1 songs, received 2x RIAA Multi Platinum, 6 Platinum and 16 Gold certified albums, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award and 45 Dove Awards. Amassing an in-depth catalog of achievements, Smith was honored at ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary for his groundbreaking career and significant influence in music. He performed at Former First Lady Barbara Bush’s 90th birthday celebration and also had the privilege to join Former President Clinton, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson and others in remembering victims in the 20th Anniversary of the Oklahoma City attacks. Smith was appointed by the White House as Vice Chair for the President’s Council on service and civic participation and, most recently, was the featured performer at the 2015 USO Gala and recognized as a USO veteran. In addition to the international impact he has had through multiple global tours, he has written and composed various scored film projects, has authored 12 books, has acted in assorted motion pictures and has been featured by numerous national media outlets. He founded, and actively supports, the teen club Rocketown – a nonprofit outreach for teens, providing opportunities in arts, music, sports and mentoring programs. This year also marks the 25th anniversary in partnership with Compassion International, seeing more than seventy thousand families’ and children’s lives changed, around the world.

Get Connected with Michael W. Smith: 
www.michaelwsmith.com

About Jordan Smith:
Jordan Smith’s much anticipated debut album, Something Beautiful [LightWorkers Media/Republic Records], is available now everywhere. Throughout the album, his undeniable delivery and instantly recognizable range drives both original songs and cover tracks produced by legends such as GRAMMY Award winning producer David Foster [Céline Dion, Michael Bublé, Josh Groban] and modern hit maker Stephan Moccio [The Weeknd, Ellie Goulding, Miley Cyrus]. The 22-year-old from Harlan, Ky., Jordan Smith stands out as the highest-selling artist to ever emerge from NBC’s EMMY AWARD®-winning “The Voice.” In less than six months, he sold over 1 million singles and made Voice history by landing eight songs in the iTunes Top 10—the first artist from any season to hit the iTunes Top 10 every single week of the Live Rounds. Of the eight songs that went Top 10 on iTunes, six hit Top 3, and three captured #1 on iTunes, all of which knocked Adele off the top spot!

Get Connected with Jordan Smith:
www.jordansmithofficial.com 

About Operation Christmas Child:
Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected more than 135 million gift-filled shoeboxes for children in more than 150 countries and territories. In 2016, Operation Christmas Child hopes to reach another 12 million children. To learn about year-round volunteer opportunities or to serve with Operation Christmas Child, visit samaritanspurse.org/occ.  
 

# # #  

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Courtney Hyder
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
courtney@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Tour Publicity Contact
Debra Akins
Southside Entertainment
debra@debraakins.com
(321) 747-0077

Multi-Platinum, GRAMMY® Award Winning Artists Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith Unite for Popular 2016 Christmas Tour With Jordan Smith, Winner of ‘The Voice’

Kicking Off Nov. 11 in Los Angeles, Annual Holiday Tour Expands With Additional Dates, West Coast Markets

Tour Will Help Promote and Raise Awareness for Operation Christmas Child

Nashville, Tenn. (June 16, 2016) – Once again rekindling their synonymous holiday music magic, multi-platinum GRAMMY® winners Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith will co-bill their popular symphony-filled Christmas tour this year, joined by Republic recording artist Jordan Smith, Season 9 winner of NBC’s “The Voice.” Incorporating a full symphony orchestra at each performance, this seasonal crowd-pleaser is expanding this year with additional dates added on the West Coast. Set to kick off Nov. 11 in Los Angeles, the tour will travel to nearly 20 major markets across the U.S. including Los Angeles, Phoenix, Seattle, Portland, Little Rock, Indianapolis, Detroit, Dallas, Tulsa, Minneapolis, Atlanta, Baltimore and more.

Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith draw hundreds of thousands to their concerts each year and their joint Christmas tours have become some of the most anticipated holiday events of the season. With a vast collection of critically-acclaimed holiday albums between them, the 2016 Christmas tour will showcase selections from their extensive Christmas repertoires. Additionally, the Christmas tour will help benefit Operation Christmas Child, known for distributing over 135 million shoeboxes of Christmas gifts to children in need in 150 countries.

Photo Credit: Cameron Powell

“Being on stage with Amy and a full symphony orchestra, performing some of my all-time favorite songs, is a dream come true,” says Michael W. Smith. “And I have to say, I have never heard a voice quite as pure and beautiful as Jordan Smith’s. It’s going to be a great night!"

“Christmas is my favorite time of year, and performing these holiday shows each November and December is a major highlight for me,” Grant adds. “I’m thrilled to share the stage with Michael and Jordan, and I’m so glad some new audiences will be able to join in the Christmas spirit with us this year. I can’t wait!”

"One of my favorite things about Christmas is the music that accompanies the season," shares Jordan Smith. "I'm so excited to join Michael and Amy, two legendary performers and personal favorites, to celebrate the holidays and support such a deserving cause!"

With critical praise from USA Today, The New York Times, Huffington Post, Country Weekly and more, his latest holiday album, Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, found Michael W. Smith collaborating with Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Nettles, Bono, Michael McDonald and Grant.

Following the recent release of the 25th anniversary rendition of Amy Grant’s iconic “Baby Baby (feat. Tori Kelly)” single, Grant is currently in the studio recording new music for her brand new Christmas album slated for an October release.

Jordan Smith will also release his first-ever Christmas album coinciding with the tour. The holiday release follows his debut album Something Beautiful, which reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200, the highest ranking on the chart by any winner of a television singing competition in almost five years, making Smith the best-selling artist in the history of “The Voice.”

For more information on the upcoming tour and to purchase tickets, visit amygrant.com/tour,  michaelwsmith.com/tour or jordansmithofficial.com/tour.

To learn more about Operation Christmas Child visit samaritanspurse.org/occ. 

2016 Christmas Tour
*All dates and venues are subject to change without notice
Nov. 11 – Los Angeles, CA – Dolby Theatre
Nov. 12– Las Vegas, NV – T Mobile Arena
Nov. 13 – Phoenix, AZ – Grand Canyon University
Nov. 17 – Kennewick, OR – Toyota Center
Nov. 18 – Abbotsford, BC – Abbotsford Entertainment & Sports Centre
Nov. 19 – Seattle, WA – Showare Center
Nov. 20 – Portland, OR – MODA Center
Nov. 25 – Little Rock, AR – Verizon Arena
Nov. 26 – Indianapolis, IN – Bankers Life Fieldhouse
Nov. 27 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre
Dec. 2 – Grand Prairie, TX – Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie
Dec. 3 – Tulsa, OK – BOK Center
Dec. 4 – Des Moines, IA – Wells Fargo Arena
Dec. 9 – Champaign, IL – State Farm Center
Dec. 10 – Minneapolis, MN – Target Center
Dec. 11 – Sioux Falls, SD – Denny Sanford Premier Center
Dec. 16 – Duluth, GA – The Arena at Gwinnett Center
Dec. 17 – Richmond, VA - Richmond Coliseum
Dec. 18 – Baltimore, MD – Royal Farms Arena


About Amy Grant:
Amy Grant's career spans more than 30 years and stretches from her roots in gospel into becoming an iconic pop star, songwriter, television personality and philanthropist. With three multi-platinum albums, six platinum albums and four gold albums, her total career album sales have exceeded 30 million. Grant’s chart success has been consistent throughout her career with six No. 1 hits, 10 Top 40 pop singles, 17 Top 40 Adult Contemporary tracks and multiple Contemporary Christian chart-toppers. In addition to her six GRAMMY® Awards, Grant has earned 26 Dove Awards (including four Artist of the Year Awards) and has been awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Conventional wisdom has it that Grant put Contemporary Christian Music on the map becoming the first Contemporary Christian artist to have a platinum record, the first to hit No. 1 on the Pop charts and the first to perform at the GRAMMY® Awards. With that, her legacy as one of the most influential artists of the past couple of decades is assured.

Get Connected with Amy Grant:
www.amygrant.com

About Michael W. Smith:
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 32 No. 1 songs, received 2x RIAA Multi Platinum, 6 Platinum and 16 Gold certified albums, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award and 45 Dove Awards. Amassing an in-depth catalog of achievements, Smith was honored at ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary for his groundbreaking career and significant influence in music. He performed at Former First Lady Barbara Bush’s 90th birthday celebration and also had the privilege to join Former President Clinton, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson and others in remembering victims in the 20th Anniversary of the Oklahoma City attacks. Smith was appointed by the White House as Vice Chair for the President’s Council on service and civic participation and, most recently, was the featured performer at the 2015 USO Gala and recognized as a USO veteran. In addition to the international impact he has had through multiple global tours, he has written and composed various scored film projects, has authored 12 books, has acted in assorted motion pictures and has been featured by numerous national media outlets. He founded, and actively supports, the teen club Rocketown – a nonprofit outreach for teens, providing opportunities in arts, music, sports and mentoring programs. This year also marks the 25th anniversary in partnership with Compassion International, seeing more than seventy thousand families’ and children’s lives changed, around the world.

Get Connected with Michael W. Smith: 
www.michaelwsmith.com

About Jordan Smith:
Jordan Smith’s much anticipated debut album, Something Beautiful [LightWorkers Media/Republic Records], is available now everywhere. Throughout the album, his undeniable delivery and instantly recognizable range drives both original songs and cover tracks produced by legends such as GRAMMY Award winning producer David Foster [Céline Dion, Michael Bublé, Josh Groban] and modern hit maker Stephan Moccio [The Weeknd, Ellie Goulding, Miley Cyrus]. The 22-year-old from Harlan, Ky., Jordan Smith stands out as the highest-selling artist to ever emerge from NBC’s EMMY AWARD®-winning “The Voice.” In less than six months, he sold over 1 million singles and made Voice history by landing eight songs in the iTunes Top 10—the first artist from any season to hit the iTunes Top 10 every single week of the Live Rounds. Of the eight songs that went Top 10 on iTunes, six hit Top 3, and three captured #1 on iTunes, all of which knocked Adele off the top spot!

Get Connected with Jordan Smith:
www.jordansmithofficial.com 

About Operation Christmas Child:
Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected more than 135 million gift-filled shoeboxes for children in more than 150 countries and territories. In 2016, Operation Christmas Child hopes to reach another 12 million children. To learn about year-round volunteer opportunities or to serve with Operation Christmas Child, visit samaritanspurse.org/occ.  

# # #  

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Courtney Hyder
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
courtney@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Tour Publicity Contact
Debra Akins
Southside Entertainment
debra@debraakins.com
(321) 747-0077

Michael W. Smith to Make Third Appearance on CMA Country Christmas Broadcast Tonight on ABC

People Magazine Online and Country Issue Highlights Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas

Nashville, Tenn. (December 3, 2015) - Joining the talents of Kelsea Ballerini, Darius Rucker, LeAnn Rimes, Charles Kelley and more, Michael W. Smith will appear on tonight’s CMA Country Christmas on ABC at 9/8 CST. Hosted by Jennifer Nettles, the all star line-up includes Smith’s duet with Martina McBride for “What Child Is This” from his 2014 release of Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas. The multi-platinum selling Smith partnered with PEOPLE Magazine for a free download of his collaboration with McBride for their holiday playlist, including an exclusive interview in PEOPLE's popular Country issue.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® is sponsoring Smith's nationwide Christmas tour. The tour will hit more than a dozen markets this holiday season, including Dallas, Atlanta, Detroit and more. Smith’s long-time friend and fellow GRAMMY® winner Amy Grant will co-bill with him in select cities. Complimented by a full symphony orchestra, the evening will feature favorites from Smith’s latest Christmas release. For a full list of tour dates and ticket information, visitmichaelwsmith.com/tour.

With critical praise from USA Today, The New York Times, Huffington Post, Country Weekly and more, Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas found Smith collaborating with Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Amy Grant, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Nettles, Bono and Michael McDonald. To hear more about the album from Smith, click here.


About Michael W. Smith: 
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 32 No. 1 songs, received 2x RIAA Multi Platinum, 6 Platinum and 16 Gold certified albums, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award and 45 Dove Awards. Amassing an in-depth catalog of achievements, Smith was honored at ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary for his groundbreaking career and significant influence in music. He performed at Former First Lady Barbara Bush’s 90th birthday celebration and also had the privilege to join Former President Clinton, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson and others in remembering victims in the 20th Anniversary of the Oklahoma City attacks. Smith was appointed by the White House as Vice Chair for the President’s Council on service and civic participation and, most recently, was the featured performer at the 2015 USO Gala and recognized as a USO veteran. In addition to the international impact he has had through multiple global tours, he has written and composed various scored film projects, has authored 12 books, has acted in assorted motion pictures and has been featured by numerous national media outlets. He founded, and actively supports, the teen club Rocketown – a nonprofit outreach for teens, providing opportunities in arts, music, sports and mentoring programs. This year also marks the 25th anniversary in partnership with Compassion International, seeing more than seventy thousand families’ and children’s lives changed, around the world. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.


Get Connected with Michael W. Smith: 
Website // www.michaelwsmith.com

# # #

Media Contact:
Velvet Kelm & Courtney Hyder
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
courtney@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.theMcollective.com

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® Partners With Michael W. Smith to Sponsor Nationwide Christmas Tour

Tour to set stage for exclusive Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® release of “Michael W. Smith Hymns II - Shine On Us”

LEBANON, Tenn. (Dec. 1, 2015) – Michael W. Smith will once again partner with Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® for his nationwide Christmas tour and the exclusive
“Michael W. Smith Hymns II - Shine On Us” album, which releases Jan. 29, 2016.

The tour will hit more than a dozen markets this holiday season, including Dallas, Atlanta, Detroit and more. Smith’s long-time friend and fellow Grammy Award winner Amy Grant will co-bill the tour in select cities. Complemented by a full symphony orchestra, the show will feature favorites from Smith’s latest Christmas release “Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas,” which includes an all-star lineup of guests – Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Amy Grant, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Nettles, Bono and Michael McDonald. 

Smith's partnership with Cracker Barrel began with the exclusive release of the Gospel Music Association’s (GMA) Dove Award winning “Michael W. Smith – Hymns” album in 2014. The success of that project led to a second record, “Michael W. Smith Hymns II - Shine On Us,” available exclusively at Cracker Barrel this January.

The holiday tour will wrap a busy year for the three-time Grammy Award winner. In his continued support, Smith was the featured performer at the recent 2015 United Service Organizations (USO) Gala. Having already made treks in Brazil and the United States, the multi-platinum selling artist continued his world tour with stops in South Korea, Philippines, Singapore and Japan last month. In October, Smith earned his 45th GMA Dove Award, taking home the trophy for “Christmas Album of the Year.”

Christmas Tour 2015: 
Dec. 04     Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center (SKyPAC) - Bowling Green, KY

Dec. 05     Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion - Houston, TX (co-bill with Amy Grant)

Dec. 06     American Airlines Center - Dallas, TX (co-bill with Amy Grant)

Dec. 08     Resurrection Life Church - Grandville, MI

Dec. 09     Fox Theatre - Detroit, MI

Dec. 11     Scottrade Center - St. Louis, MO (co-bill with Amy Grant)

Dec. 12     Target Center - Minneapolis, MN (co-bill with Amy Grant)

Dec. 13     Denny Sanford Premier Center - Sioux Falls, SD (co-bill with Amy Grant)

Dec. 15     Cincinnati Music Hall - Cincinnati, OH

Dec. 16     Bell Shoals Baptist Church (Brandon, FL) - Tampa, FL

Dec. 18     Gwinnett Center - Atlanta, GA (co-bill with Amy Grant)

Dec. 19     Greensboro Coliseum - Greensboro, NC (co-bill with Amy Grant)

Dec. 20    EagleBank Arena - Fairfax, VA (co-bill with Amy Grant)
 

All tour dates are subject to change. For the latest information and tickets, visit michaelwsmith.com/tour.
 

###

 
About Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 32 No. 1 songs, received 2x RIAA Multi-Platinum, 6 Platinum and 16 Gold certified albums, earned three Grammy Awards, one American Music Award and 45 GMA Dove Awards. Amassing an in-depth catalog of achievements, Smith was honored at ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary for his groundbreaking career and significant influence in music. He performed at Former First Lady Barbara Bush’s 90th birthday celebration and also had the privilege to join Former President Clinton, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson and others in remembering victims in the 20th Anniversary of the Oklahoma City attacks. Smith was appointed by the White House as Vice Chair for the President’s Council on service and civic participation and, most recently, was the featured performer at the 2015 USO Gala and recognized as a USO veteran. In addition to the international impact he has had through multiple global tours, he has written and composed various scored film projects, has authored 12 books, has acted in assorted motion pictures and has been featured by numerous national media outlets. He founded, and actively supports, the teen club Rocketown – a nonprofit outreach for teens, providing opportunities in arts, music, sports and mentoring programs. This year also marks the 25th anniversary in partnership with Compassion International, seeing more than seventy thousand families’ and children’s lives changed, around the world. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.

About Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. provides a friendly home-away-from-home in its old country stores and restaurants. Guests are cared for like family while relaxing and enjoying real home-style food and shopping that’s surprisingly unique, genuinely fun and reminiscent of America’s country heritage…all at a fair price. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBRL) was established in 1969 in Lebanon, Tenn. and operates 635 company-owned locations in 42 states. Nation’s Restaurant News’ 2015 Consumer Picks survey named Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® the winner in two Family-Dining Restaurants categories – Menu Variety and Atmosphere. For more information about the company, visit crackerbarrel.com.
 

Media Contact:
Velvet Kelm & Courtney Hyder
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
courtney@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.theMcollective.com

The Media Collective Congratulates Our 2015 Dove Award Winners

Nashville, Tenn. (October 14, 2015) — The Media Collective would like to congratulate our clients who took home awards last night at the 46th Annual GMA Dove Awards. Sadie Robertson and Erica Campbell hosted the awards, which took place at Nashville's Lipscomb University. The show will air on the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) on Sunday, October 18, 2015.

Crowder's Neon Steeple won the Recorded Music Packaging award with designer Leighton Ching, art directors Shelley Giglio, Mike McCloskey, Leighton Ching, Becca Wildsmith and photographers Zack Arias and Mary Caroline Mann. Crowder's current single "Lift Your Head Weary Sinner (Chains)," has reached the Top 5 on CHR and the Top 15 on the National Christian Audience Chart. Crowder is heading out with Chris Tomlin later this season on the "ADORE Christmas Tour."

Colton Dixon took home the Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year award for ANCHOR, produced by David Garcia, Adam Watts, Andy Dodd and Gannin Arnold. The album includes the most played Hot AC single of 2014, “More Of You," which spent three weeks at No. 1, as well as "Through All of It," his fourth consecutive No. 1 at Hot AC Radio. Dixon recently released dual EPs Calm and Storm and is currently on the ***THIS IS NOT A TEST*** Tour with TobyMac and Britt Nicole.

Nashville-based Full Circle Music, helmed by Seth Mosley, took top honors, garnering four wins, including Producer of the Year, Songwriter of the Year (non-artist), Pop Contemporary Album of the Year for Run Wild. Live Free. Love Strong. (producer) by for KING & COUNTRY and Inspirational Album of the Year for Above It All (producer) by Phillips Craig & Dean.

Skillet took home the Rock Song of the Year award for "Good To Be Alive," written by John L. Cooper, Zac Maloy and Tom Douglas. Skillet recently earned their third RIAA certified platinum single as their song "Awake & Alive" sold over one million digital copies. The group is currently in the studio preparing for a 2016 release as they wrap up as headliners of the Winter Jam Tour Spectacular.

Michael W. Smith took home the award for Christmas Album of the Year for Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, produced by Smith, Robert Deaton and David Hamilton. The holiday spirit will continue for Smith later this season as he sets out on a Christmas tour, co-billing with Amy Grant on select dates.

Laura Story was honored with the Inspirational Song of the Year award for "O Love Of God" written by Story, Cindy Morgan and Ian Cron. Story's debut Christmas album God With Us released October 9, following the September release of her second book "When God Doesn't Fix It: Lessons You Never Wanted to Learn; Truths You Can't Live Without."

Chris Tomlin, along with Daniel Carson, Ed Cash, Gloria Gaither, Jason Ingram, Matt Maher and Bill Gaither wrote “Because He Lives (Amen)” by Matt Maher, which took home Worship Song of the Year. Tomlin is currently on the fall leg of his "Love Ran Red Tour" and is setting out later this season on a Christmas tour in support of ADORE: Christmas Songs of Worship, releasing October 23. His current single "Good Good Father" hit the No. 1 spot on iTunes Christian Songs chart the same day it released and is rapidly climbing the radio charts, already hitting No. 19 on the National Christian Audience chart.

About The Media Collective
Everyone has a story to tell. The difference for many artists, authors and media personalities comes in having a talented team behind them who can help best communicate that story. Some of the biggest names in faith-based entertainment have relied upon the expertise of those at The Media Collective to do just that. And they put their faith in the right people. This talented PR team has secured coverage for them in publications including Billboard, People, Entertainment Weekly, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, CALLED Magazine, The Los Angeles Times, CCM Magazine, Relevant, Redbook, Good Housekeeping, SELF, Seventeen, Shape, Patheos, Focus on the Family, Keep the Faith, Moody, Beliefnet and American Family Radio as well as spots on The Tonight Show, ABC's Good Morning America, NBC’s Today Show, The View, Larry King Live, Conan, GAC, MSNBC, Fox News Channel, Fox & Friends, CBS This Morning, CNN and more. 


Get Connected With The Media Collective
Website: themcollective.com
Facebook: facebook.com/themcollective
Twitter: twitter.com/TheMCollective
Instagram: instagram.com/TheMCollective

 

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Media Contact
Velvet Kelm, Courtney Hyder and Kirsten Grenier
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com, courtney@themcollective.com & kirsten@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Multi-Platinum Selling Singer Michael W. Smith Announces Return of Nationwide Christmas Tour with Amy Grant in Select Markets

Three-time GRAMMY® winner serves as main composer in anticipated 90 MINUTES IN HEAVEN feature film

Nashville, Tenn. (Sept. 8, 2015) – Selling more than 15 million albums, Michael W. Smith will once again bring holiday cheer to arenas, coliseums and theaters to more than a dozen markets this holiday season through his nationwide Christmas tour. Smith’s long-time friend and fellow GRAMMY® winner Amy Grant will co-bill with him in select cities including Houston, Dallas, Minneapolis, Sioux Falls, St. Louis, Atlanta, Greensboro and Fairfax. The evening will feature favorites from Smith’s latest Christmas release Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, which includes an all-star lineup of guests – Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Amy Grant, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Nettles, Bono and Michael McDonald.  The holiday album scored a nomination for "Christmas Album of the Year" at the upcoming 46th Annual Dove Awards. Smith also earned a nod with "Christ Be All Around Me" for"Inspirational Song of the Year." For a full list of tour dates and ticket information, visit michaelwsmith.com/tour.
 
The Christmas tour will come on the heels of a busy fall for Smith with tour commitments across the United States, Brazil, Korea, The Ukraine and Japan. The acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician is currently promoting his role in 90 MINUTES IN HEAVEN.Alongside his son Tyler, Smith created the score for the motion picture. Based on Don Piper’s New York Times bestseller (7 million books sold--now also available in a movie edition), 90 MINUTES IN HEAVEN, Giving Films’ first project, is the amazing and true story of Piper’s death in an auto accident, his experience of heaven and his return to severe physical, emotional and spiritual recovery. Smith joined fellow actors Hayden Christensen (STAR WARS, JUMPER), Kate Bosworth (BLUE CRUSH, SUPERMAN RETURNS), E! News host Jason Kennedy and other cast members along with the real Piper family - Don, Eva, Nicole, Chris and Joe - at the film’s world premiere at the historic FOX Theatre in Atlanta on Sept. 1. Directed by the famed Michael Polish and distributed by Samuel Goldwyn Films, 90 MINUTES IN HEAVEN will open in theaters on Sept. 11.

From Left to Right: Smith, Kate Bosworth, Michael Polish; Smith and Bosworth; Hayden Christensen, Smith, Tyler Smith
Photo Credits Lovell-Fairchild

About Michael W. Smith: 
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 32 No. 1 songs, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award and more than 40 Dove Awards. In honor of ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary, Smith, along with Amy Grant, was honored as “a cornerstone of Christian music,” for his groundbreaking career and significant influence on the genre. In 2014, Smith released both Hymns, his first-ever classic album featuring church favorites available exclusively at all Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® locations and CrackerBarrel.com, and Sovereign, which took a Top 10 spot on the Billboard 200, as well as the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Christian Albums Chart. His fourth career Christmas album, Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, released during the fall of 2014 and received critical acclaim from The New York Times, USA Today and more. Featuring Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Amy Grant, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Nettles, Bono and Michael McDonald, the project was one of the top-selling Christmas albums of the season. Smith is an active supporter of Rocketown, the Nashville-based center for at-risk teens, Compassion International and Samaritan’s Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. For more information, visitwww.michaelwsmith.com.

Christmas Tour 2015: 
* All tour dates subject to change, please visit michaelwsmith.com/tour for the latest information.
Nov. 27     Brentwood Baptist Church - Nashville, TN
Dec. 04     Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center (SKyPAC) - Bowling Green, KY
Dec. 05    Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion - Houston, TX (co-bill with Amy Grant)
Dec. 06     American Airlines Center - Dallas, TX (co-bill with Amy Grant)
Dec. 08     Resurrection Life Church - Grandville, MI
Dec. 09     Fox Theatre - Detroit, MI
Dec. 11      Scott Trade Center - St. Louis, MO
Dec. 12     Target Center - Minneapolis, MN (co-bill with Amy Grant)
Dec. 13     Denny Sanford Premier Center - Sioux Falls, SD (co-bill with Amy Grant)
Dec. 15     Cincinnati Music Hall - Cincinnati, OH
Dec. 16     Bell Shoals Baptist Church (Brandon, FL) - Tampa, FL
Dec. 18     Gwinnett Center - Atlanta, GA (co-bill with Amy Grant)
Dec. 19     Greensboro Coliseum - Greensboro, NC (co-bill with Amy Grant)
Dec. 20     Patriot Center - Fairfax, VA (co-bill with Amy Grant)

Stay Connected with Michael W. Smith:
Website // www.michaelwsmith.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/michaelwsmithofficial
Twitter // www.twitter.com/michaelwsmith
Instagram // www.instagram.com/mwsmithofficial

# # # 

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Courtney Hyder
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
courtney@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.themcollective.com

New Music Video for Michael W. Smith’s “Sky Spills Over” Unveiled with Support from WayFM, FOX News, Guideposts and More

Three-Time GRAMMY ® Winner Continues Global Tour Dates; Takes Part in Former First Lady's 90th Birthday Celebration

Nashville, Tenn. (June 16, 2015) –  “Sky Spills Over,” the latest music video and radio single from GRAMMY ® Award Winner Michael W. Smith, debuted to viral backing from WAYFm.com, FOX News and Guideposts.org.  “Sky Spills Over” has climbed into the Top 25 on both the Billboard AC Indicator and National Christian Audience Charts.

The video was a family affair for Smith featuring several of his grandchildren along with his son, Ryan Smith, serving as the director of the music video.  Fans took to social media to share the video as the impact resonated with viewers.

After recent shows in Nigeria and South Africa to the Ukraine, as part of the "SOVEREIGN WORLD TOUR," Smith joined Reba McEntire and Amy Grant to perform for former First Lady Barbara Bush’s 90th birthday in Kennebunkport, Maine.  Continuing to support Bush’s commitment to reading and education, the celebration raised a total of $17.3 million for the Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy.

This fall, Smith will continue his "SOVEREIGN WORLD TOUR" with dates in the U.S. as well as in Brazil,  Japan and Indonesia.  In late September, Phillips, Craig & Dean and Mark Lowry will join Smith in a 10-city tour being billed as the "Celebration of Songs & Hymns Tour." Concert information is always available at www.michaelwsmith.com.


About Michael W. Smith:
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 32 No. 1 songs, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award and more than 40 Dove Awards.  In honor of ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary, Smith, along with Amy Grant, was honored as “a cornerstone of Christian music,” for his groundbreaking career and significant influence on the genre. In 2014, Smith released Hymns, his first-ever classic album featuring church favorites available exclusively at all Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® locations and CrackerBarrel.com, Sovereign, which took a Top 10 spot on the Billboard 200, as well as the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Christian Albums Chart. His fourth career Christmas album, Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, released during the fall of 2014 and received critical acclaim from The New York Times, USA Today and more. Featuring Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Amy Grant, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Nettles, Bono and Michael McDonald, the project was one of the top-selling Christmas albums of the season. He actively supports the teen club Rocketown, Compassion International, and Samaritan’s Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.
 

Stay Connected with Michael W. Smith
Website // www.michaelwsmith.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/michaelwsmithofficial
Twitter // www.twitter.com/michaelwsmith
Instagram // www.instagram.com/mwsmithofficial
 

# # #

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Courtney Hyder
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
courtney@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.theMcollective.com

Michael W. Smith, Phillips, Craig and Dean and Mark Lowry Unite for a Hymns Tour Hitting Markets This September

Nashville, Tenn. (May 22, 2015) - Beginning September 22, GRAMMY® award-winning artist Michael W. Smith will embark on a nightly concert hymns tour, bringing his hits and famous church classics alongside comedian Mark Lowry and longtime trio Phillips, Craig, and Dean (PCD). The tour will run through the month of September, beginning in Bemidji, Minn. and concluding in Reading, Pa.

In 2014, Smith released his very first traditional hymns album, partnering with the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® for its release. The best-selling Hymns album won the 2014 Dove Awards for “Inspirational Album of the Year” and includes inspirational songs that he remembers singing in church when young.

“This tour really is a bit of a dream come true for me,” Smith shares. “I have such deep respect for Randy, Shawn and Dan (PCD) and I’ve always been a fan of Mark Lowry. Sharing the stage and performing the classic Hymns of the church will be such a unique and great experience. I’m really, really looking forward to this tour.”

After a successful Alaska cruise tour in 2014 featuring PCD, Smith decided to connect with PCD a second time. In planning the 2014 nightly concerts, the artists decided that it might be fun to do a night of all hymns. So – with no formal rehearsal, they made a set list, took the stage together, and sang classics for more than an hour. It was decided that very night that the two artists would set out on another hymnal tour, but this time with the addition of Lowry.

Lowry’s performance will bring a special element to the tour. Not only known for his comedic antics, Lowry was raised in the church and had the opportunity to sing with Bill Gaither for many years. "I'm so excited that Smitty, PCD and I are going to get to travel to a bunch of cities this fall and perform all 'hims.'" Mark comments, “I guess we'll perform all 'hers' next year ... sorry ladies."

Randy Phillips with PCD states, "Michael W. Smith sings songs that draw my heart closer to God. Mark Lowry, through his unique humor, helps me not to take myself too seriously. As Phillips, Craig and Dean enter our 25th year together, it is indeed an honor to be on stage with men who have created such a legacy.”


Additional information and tickets are available at http://www.michaelwsmith.com.


All Dates Subject to Change
*Click Here For Up-To-Date Tour Information
September 22 – Bemidji, MD
September 23 – Cedar Rapids, IA
September 24 – Bowling Green, OH
September 25 – Shipshewana, IN
September 27 – Greenville, NC
September 28 – Columbus, OH
September 29 – Greensburg, PA
September 30 – Reading, PA


About Michael W. Smith: 
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 32 No. 1 songs, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award, and more than 40 Dove Awards. Most recently, in honor of ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary, Smith, along with Amy Grant, was honored as “a cornerstone of Christian music,” for his groundbreaking career and significant influence on the genre. Also in 2014, Smith was named Philanthropist of the Year by the Nashville Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and honored by the Nashville Association of Talent Directors (NATD) for his impact on the Nashville entertainment industry. Throughout his career, the Contemporary Christian Music artist has had the opportunity to sing for several Presidents and national leaders. He actively supports the teen club Rocketown, Compassion International, and Samaritan’s Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. Michael and his wife Debbie live in Middle Tennessee, where they raised their five children. In 2014, Smith released Hymns, his first-ever classic album featuring church favorites available exclusively at all Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® locations and CrackerBarrel.com, as well as his first studio worship album since 2008, Sovereign, which took a Top 10 spot on the Billboard 200, as well as the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Christian Albums Chart. His fourth career Christmas album, Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, released during the fall of 2014 and received critical acclaim from The New York Times, USA Today and more. Featuring Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Amy Grant, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Nettles, Bono and Michael McDonald, the project was one of the top-selling Christmas albums of the season. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.


About Phillips, Craig and Dean:
Since the group was formed more than 20 years ago, Phillips, Craig & Dean has achieved remarkable status in the Christian music industry. They released their 15th album, Above It All, November 10th, have produced 24 No. 1 radio hits, sold almost three million records, and have won three GMA Dove Awards. Their major hits have received national attention with “Revelation Song” staying at No. 1 for a record-breaking 17 weeks, “Crucified with Christ” named Inspiration Song of the Year by CCM Magazine, “Saved The Day” played during a nationally televised game of the Texas Rangers, and “Shine On Us” being the theme song for the National Day of Prayer’s 50th anniversary. Phillips, Craig and Dean remain an active touring act, which has included appearances at National Religious Broadcasters and Christian Booksellers Association conventions and Promise Keepers events. The group still maintains their moratorium on Saturday night travel due to their commitments as full-time pastors at their home churches in Austin, TX, St. Louis, Missouri and Carrollton, TX.


About Mark Lowry:
Mark Lowry is known and loved around the world as a trusted voice in the realm of gospel music and beyond. With four decades in the entertainment industry, Lowry is a singer, storyteller, humorist, author and songwriter, whose lyric to “Mary Did You Know?” resulted in one of the most loved modern Christmas songs of this century. This captivating song, which he co-wrote with Buddy Greene, has been recorded more than 400 times by artists from every genre including: Reba McEntire, Cee Lo Green, Clay Aiken, Michael English, Kenny Rogers, Wynonna Judd, The Gaither Vocal Band and a long list of others. Lowry has spent more than 20 collective years as the baritone singer for the GRAMMY ® winning Gaither Vocal Band and serves as the sidesplitting comedic sidekick for Bill Gaither through live concert tours and the best-selling Gaither Homecoming video series and television airings (now more than 150 volumes strong). A deep thinker and student of theology with an outrageous sense of humor (for which he often credits his diagnosis with Attention Deficit Disorder), Lowry’s life work includes a long list of recordings and DVDs reflecting a wide range of influences, including: Mark Lowry On Broadway, Mark Lowry Goes To Hollywood, Life Gets Loud, I Love To Tell the Story (his first all-hymns recording), Unplugged and Unplanned, Whatcha Need and most recently, Unforgettable Classics. Lowry was recently inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame, which in his words, "took my breath away."


Get Connected with Michael W. Smith
Website // www.michaelwsmith.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/michaelwsmithofficial
Twitter // www.twitter.com/michaelwsmith
Instagram // www.instagram.com/mwsmithofficial

 

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Courtney Hyder
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
courtney@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.theMcollective.com

Michael W. Smith Joins President Clinton and Others in Heartfelt Memorial on the 20th Anniversary of the Oklahoma City Bombing

GRAMMY Winner Receives Top Recognition from 
Belmont University

Nashville, Tenn. (April 23, 2015) – Michael W. Smith  joined President Clinton, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson and others in remembering victims of the Oklahoma City Bombing, and celebrating the "Oklahoma Standard" during Sunday’s memorial service marking the 20th anniversary of the attack.  The three-time GRAMMY® winner alsoreceived the prestigious 2015 Applause Award from the Nashville-based Belmont University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts Program on Saturday, April 18.  

"It was such an honor to be with President Clinton, the other dignitaries and especially the good, strong people of Oklahoma on this significant date in their history.  The strength and resolve of the people of Oklahoma City reminded me that God can take what was meant for evil and turn it to our good,” shares Smith.  "I am so proud of Belmont University.  I’m proud to be a Trustee and I’m proud to recommend Belmont to so many kids that are looking for a great education.  And to hear them perform my music - - I have to admit to shedding a tear or two.  It was a very emotional experience for me."

The Applause Award is the highest honor given by the Belmont College of Visual and Performing Arts.  Past recipients include Chet Atkins, Vince Gill, Amy Grant, and Ricky Skaggs. Belmont performers honored Smith with variations of his songs, culminating in a rendition of ‘River is Rising’ performed by Smith, a 90 piece orchestra, an 18 piece jazz band, and over 300 accompaniment singers.

Photo Credit: Belmont University

After the university event, Smith traveled directly to Oklahoma City where he joined former President Bill Clinton, former Governor Frank Keating, current Governor Mary Fallin, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson and others.

After 168 seconds of silence to honor the 168 men, women and children who lost their lives in the attack, Smith sang the National Anthem as part of the somber memorial to honor the 20th anniversary of the tragedy. 

Michael W. Smith with Former Oklahoma Governor Frank Keating

About Michael W. Smith: 
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 28 No. 1 songs, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award, and more than 40 Dove Awards. Most recently, in honor of ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary, Smith, along with Amy Grant, was honored as “a cornerstone of Christian music,” for his groundbreaking career and significant influence on the genre. Also in 2014, Smith was named Philanthropist of the Year by the Nashville Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and honored by the Nashville Association of Talent Directors (NATD) for his impact on the Nashville entertainment industry. Throughout his career, the Contemporary Christian Music artist has had the opportunity to sing for several Presidents and national leaders. He actively supports the teen club Rocketown, Compassion International, and Samaritan’s Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. Michael and his wife Debbie live in Middle Tennessee, where they raised their five children. In 2014, Smith released Hymns, his first-ever classic hymns album available exclusively at all Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® locations and CrackerBarrel.com, as well as his first studio worship album since 2008, Sovereign, which took a Top 10 spot on the Billboard 200, as well as the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Christian Albums Chart. His fourth career Christmas album, Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, released during the fall of 2014 and received critical acclaim from The New York Times, USA Today and more. Featuring Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Amy Grant, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Nettles, Bono and Michael McDonald, the project was one of the top-selling Christmas albums of the season. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.

Get Connected with Michael W. Smith
Website // www.michaelwsmith.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/michaelwsmithofficial
Twitter // www.twitter.com/michaelwsmith

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Courtney Hyder
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
courtney@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.theMcollective.com

Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas Surges in Album Sales Following CMA Country Christmas Performance

Smith’s fourth Christmas project gains affirmation from The New York Times, iTunes, 
USA Today, Huffington Post, Country Weekly and more

The Spirit of Christmas one of Top 4 Billboard Holiday Albums

 

Nashville, Tenn. (December 11, 2014) – GRAMMY® winner Michael W. Smith knew something special had happened following his performance with Carrie Underwood on the CMA Country Christmas special. “What a moment - it made my hair stand up a little bit!” he said to PEOPLE Magazine backstage at the taping of the show in Nashville. The performance, along with a showering of media praise, led to nearly a 150% increase in album sales this week for his new Christmas project – Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas.

Smith’s live performances with Carrie Underwood and Little Big Town helped solidify a Top 4 position on the Billboard Holiday Albums chart. The Spirit of Christmas will remain there this week in the peak of Christmas shopping season amongst Michael Buble, Idina Menzel and Pentatonix. The Christmas project – which also features Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum, Martina McBride, Amy Grant, Jennifer Nettles, Bono and Michael McDonald – broke into the Top 10 Overall Albums on iTunes, helping secure a No. 16 spot on the Billboard 200 and a No. 1 spot on the Billboard Christian/Gospel Albums charts this week.

Fueling the positive momentum, media outlets have lauded affirmation on the highly collaborative project, co-produced by Smith, CMA Awards Executive Producer Robert Deaton and orchestral maestro David Hamilton.
 

“This lavishly arranged, guest-filled album begins as if in a world of rebroadcast TV specials and Bing Crosby movies, but eventually finds its way back to the manger.”
- USA Today

“…richly expansive sound with the help of an uncommonly diverse roster of guest stars. The Spirit of Christmas is a deeply reverent statement as well as a festive music offering.”
- iTunes

“Mr. Smith gamely attempts his best Dean Martin, backed by the London Session Orchestra, but he sounds far more at ease reuniting with an old duet partner, Amy Grant, on an original titled ‘Almost There.’”
- The New York Times

“The standout here is ‘All Is Well’ that features Smith and Carrie Underwood giving two of the strongest performances of their respective careers. Warm your spirit with this new Christmas classic.”
- The Huffington Post

“The Spirit of Christmas follows the tradition of excellence established by Smith’s three previous holiday albums.”
- Country Weekly
 

Additionally, Smith partnered with PEOPLE Magazine for a free download of his collaboration with Little Big Town on “Silent Night.” Despite his hectic schedule in preparation for “The Spirit of Christmas Tour,” Smith was able to connect with PEOPLE Magazine, PEOPLE Country, Billboard, FOX News Radio, Hannity Radio, CMT Radio, ABC Radio, Kathie Lee & Company and more to share about The Spirit of Christmas. 

Smith's annual Christmas tour is underway and thrilling audiences in 15 markets across the U.S. and Canada. Also this month, Smith will co-headline three special events in Dallas, Minneapolis and Atlanta with longtime friend Amy Grant. For more information on "The Spirit of Christmas Tour," sponsored by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store®, visitwww.michaelwsmith.com. 
 

About Michael W. Smith:
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 28 No. 1 songs, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award, and more than 40 Dove Awards. Most recently, in honor of ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary, Smith, along with Amy Grant, was honored as “a cornerstone of Christian music,” for his groundbreaking career and significant influence on the genre. Throughout his career, the Contemporary Christian Music artist has had the opportunity to sing for several Presidents and national leaders. He actively supports the teen club Rocketown, Compassion International, and Samaritan’s Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. Michael and his wife Debbie live in Middle Tennessee, where they raised their five children. So far this year, Smith has released Hymns, his first-ever classic hymns album available exclusively at all Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® locations and CrackerBarrel.com, as well as his first studio worship album since 2008, Sovereign, which took a Top 10 spot on the Billboard 200, as well as the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Christian Albums Chart. His fourth career Christmas album, Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, is available now. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.
 

Get Connected with Michael W. Smith
Website // michaelwsmith.com
Facebook // facebook.com/michaelwsmithofficial
Twitter // twitter.com/michaelwsmith
Instagram // instagram.com/mwsmithofficial
iTunes // smarturl.it/MWSChristmas
Spotify // open.spotify.com/artist/5aBxFPaaGk9204ssHUvXWN  

###
       

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

CMA Country Christmas - Michael W. Smith Performs Tonight

Michael W. Smith performs songs from his new Christmas album - Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas -  with Carrie Underwood & Little Big Town tonight! Tune in to ABC at 8/7c!

Michael W. Smith and Carrie Underwood perform at the "CMA Country Christmas" taping on Friday, Nov. 7, 2014 at the Bridgestone Arena in downtown Nashville. The holiday special airs Monday, Dec. 1 at 8/7c on the ABC Television Network.

Jennifer Nettles introduces Michael W. Smith and Little Big Town at the "CMA Country Christmas" taping on Friday, Nov. 7, 2014 at the Bridgestone Arena in downtown Nashville. The holiday special airs Monday, Dec. 1 at 8/7c on the ABC Television Network.

Michael W. Smith & Friends: 
The Spirit of Christmas

AVAILABLE NOW

GRAMMY® Winner Michael W. Smith Named Philanthropist of the Year and Honored by Nashville Association of Talent Directors

Nashville, Tenn. (November 14, 2014) – In the midst of promotion for Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, which quickly hit No. 1 on the Billboard Holiday Albums chart, three-time GRAMMY® winner Michael W. Smith was named Philanthropist of the Year by the Nashville Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). Additionally, Smith was honored by the Nashville Association of Talent Directors (NATD) for his impact on the Nashville entertainment industry. 

On National Philanthropy Day – November 5 – the Nashville Chapter of AFP named Smith Philanthropist of the Year based on his extensive work with Rocketown, which he founded in 1994. The first of its kind in the Southeast, Rocketown over the years has grown into a model example for Christian-based relational outreach programs across the country. Following the tragedy of Columbine in 1999, Rocketown’s board was inspired to grow the scope of programming and move to a central location in downtown Nashville. The current facility touts three stages for live entertainment, Middle Tennessee’s only indoor skatepark, The Hub snack bar, a recording studio and photography, art and dance studios. More than 800 teens from across the Middle Tennessee region participate in Rocketown programs each week. For more information, visit http://rocketown.com.

This past Tuesday evening at The Hermitage Hotel in Nashville, NATD held its annual gala, honoring seven entertainment professionals for their efforts to make Nashville the exciting and vital entertainment mecca that it is today. Hosted by ABC/WKRN’s Stephanie Langston, the Gala honored Smith along with Governor Bill Haslam, Rob Beckham, partner and co-head of William Morris Endeavor Entertainment, Vanderbilt University’s Head Baseball Coach, Tim Corbin, Founder and CEO of Parallel Entertainment, J. P. Williams, Demetria Kalodimos, WSMV News anchor and reporter and legendary country music icon Charlie Daniels.

The 2014 Honorees were chosen by the NATD Board of Directors, under the leadership of President Steve Tolman of LogiCom. “Our honorees are from varying entertainment backgrounds and professions, and they have each brought their expertise, their commitment and their vision to ensure that Music City continues to flourish and grow,” Tolman said.

Michael W. Smith is presented with Philanthropist of the Year Award by the AFP

Michael W. Smith speaks at NATD Gala

Smith is gearing up to launch the "The Spirit of Christmas Tour” in support of Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, which features a plethora of A-list guests – including Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Amy Grant, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Nettles, Bono and Michael McDonald.

The tour will kick off November 30 and will hit several cities in the U.S. and Canada. Partnering with Smith as the official tour sponsor is Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® and joining him on all tour dates is Dove Award-winner Rachael Lampa. In addition to "The Spirit of Christmas Tour," Smith will co-headline three special events with long-time friend and fellow GRAMMY® winner Amy Grant. Teaming up in Dallas, Minneapolis and Atlanta, Smith and Grant will showcase their beloved Christmas set while performing alongside the full Symphony Orchestras.   

Smith will also perform on the CMA Country Christmas special to air on ABC on Monday, December 1 at 8/7c. Smith will perform two tracks off of the album, his original song “All Is Well” with Carrie Underwood, and the beloved Christmas classic “Silent Night” with Little Big Town. For more information, visit cmaworld.com/cma-country-christmas.
         

About Michael W. Smith:
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 28 No. 1 songs, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award, and more than 40 Dove Awards. Most recently, in honor of ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary, Smith, along with Amy Grant, was honored as “a cornerstone of Christian music,” for his groundbreaking career and significant influence on the genre. Throughout his career, the Contemporary Christian Music artist has had the opportunity to sing for several Presidents and national leaders. He actively supports the teen club Rocketown, Compassion International, and Samaritan’s Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. Michael and his wife Debbie live in Middle Tennessee, where they raised their five children. So far this year, Smith has released Hymns, his first-ever classic hymns album available exclusively at all Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® locations and CrackerBarrel.com, as well as his first studio worship album since 2008, Sovereign, which took a Top 10 spot on the Billboard 200, as well as the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Christian Albums Chart. His fourth career Christmas album, Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, is available now. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.   
 

About The Association of Fundraising Professionals:
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) is an association of individuals responsible for generating philanthropic support for a wide variety of nonprofit, charitable organizations. The Nashville Chapter of AFP is one of five Chapters in the state of Tennessee. Established in 1981, the Nashville Chapter currently serves a membership of more than 120 area professionals, serving all of Middle Tennessee and parts of Southern Kentucky.

Founded in 1960, AFP (formerly the National Society of Fund Raising Executives) advances philanthropy through its more than 30,388 members in 198 chapters throughout the world.

AFP believes that to guarantee human freedom and social creativity, people must have the right to freely and voluntarily form organizations to meet perceived needs, advocate causes, and seek funds to support these activities.   
 

About Nashville Association of Talent Directors:
NATD was founded in 1958 and professionally represents, directs, and promotes the entertainment industry through its members. Today those members generate more than 300 million dollars annually for Nashville-based artists. The organization not only serves as a forum for idea exchange among its members, it also serves as a vehicle for other facets of the industry to share information vital to the overall growth of the Nashville music and entertainment industry. NATD members foster camaraderie among "friendly competitors” which seems to be unique to the closely knit Nashville music and entertainment community. As part of its philanthropic program, NATD provides scholarship funds for students showing exemplary performances in academics, civic duties, and personal goals. This is the 26th year that aid has been granted. For more information, please visit www.n-a-t-d.com.

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Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Michael W. Smith to Perform with Carrie Underwood and Little Big Town for CMA Country Christmas on ABC

Country Weekly premieres lyric video for “Silent Night”

Smith escorts U.S. Marines on CMA Awards 
red carpet for Toys For Tots

Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas 
available now

Nashville, Tenn. (November 11, 2014) - Three-time GRAMMY® winner Michael W. Smith will perform on the CMA Country Christmas special to air on ABC on Monday, December 1 at 8/7c. Smith will perform two tracks off of his top-selling Christmas album –Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas – and joining him on stage will be CMA Awards host Carrie Underwood and the newly inducted Grand Ole Opry members Little Big Town. Smith made his CMA Country Christmas debut in 2013, performing with host Jennifer Nettles. Smith will perform his original song “All Is Well” with Underwood and the beloved Christmas classic “Silent Night” with Little Big Town. The 2014 CMA Country Christmas special will also feature performances by Leann Rimes, Idina Menzel, Alan Jackson, Brad Paisley, Steven Tyler and more. For more information, visit cmaworld.com/cma-country-christmas.

Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas released only a few short weeks ago, quickly hitting No. 1 on the Billboard Holiday Albums chart. The album features a plethora of A-list guests – including the aforementioned Carrie Underwood and Little Big Town, as well as Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum, Martina McBride, Amy Grant, Jennifer Nettles, Bono and Michael McDonald. Huffington Post led the critical praise, calling the album an early “favorite Yuletide effort” and an instant “Christmas classic.”

This week, Country Weekly premiered the lyric video for Smith’s collaboration with Little Big Town – “Silent Night” – and affirmed the album as a whole saying, “The Spirit of Christmas follows the tradition of musical excellence established by Michael W.’s three previous holiday albums. If you’re a Michael W. Smith fan, there’s a reason to celebrate the holiday season early this year.” To watch the video premiere, visitcountryweekly.com/videos/exclusive-michael-w-smith-and-little-big-towns-silent-night-lyric-video.

Last week, Smith attended the 2014 CMA Awards in Nashville and escorted members of the U.S. Marines in support of their Toys For Tots campaign. Toys were collected at the taping for CMA Country Christmas and will be distributed to children and families in need in the greater Nashville region. For more information, visit nashville-tn.toysfortots.org.

Smith is gearing up to launch the "The Spirit of Christmas Tour” which kicks off November 30 and will hit several cities in the U.S. and Canada. Partnering with Smith as the official tour sponsor is Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® and joining him on all tour dates is Dove Award-winner Rachael Lampa.

About Michael W. Smith:
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 28 No. 1 songs, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award, and more than 40 Dove Awards. Most recently, in honor of ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary, Smith, along with Amy Grant, was honored as “a cornerstone of Christian music,” for his groundbreaking career and significant influence on the genre. Throughout his career, the Contemporary Christian Music artist has had the opportunity to sing for several Presidents and national leaders. He actively supports the teen club Rocketown, Compassion International, and Samaritan’s Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. Michael and his wife Debbie live in Middle Tennessee, where they raised their five children. So far this year, Smith has released Hymns, his first-ever classic hymns album available exclusively at all Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® locations and CrackerBarrel.com, as well as his first studio worship album since 2008, Sovereign, which took a Top 10 spot on the Billboard 200, as well as the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Christian Albums Chart. His fourth career Christmas album, Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, is available now. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.

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PRESS KIT/HI-RES PHOTOS:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/f8akbc1c1oijhg4/AAD9QJHViQPrvaDfJsIuCDzPa?dl=0

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® Partners with Michael W. Smith to Sponsor "Spirit of Christmas Tour"

Tour follows Smith's exclusive partnership with Cracker Barrel Old Country Store®
on best-selling Hymns album

Fans will get early taste of Christmas with Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas 
hitting stores September 30

 
Nashville, Tenn. (September 23, 2014) - Three-time GRAMMY® winner Michael W. Smith will bring holiday cheer to audiences across the country this holiday season as he launches "The Spirit of Christmas Tour,” set to hit several cities in the U.S. and Canada. Partnering with Michael W. Smith as the official tour sponsor is Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® and joining him on all tour dates is Dove Award-winner Rachael Lampa.

Earlier this year, Michael W. Smith debuted his first classic hymns album, aptly named Hymns, exclusively at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® and online at www.crackerbarrel.com. The tremendous success of the album, which was recently nominated for a Dove Award for Inspirational Album of the Year, led to Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® signing on as the official tour sponsor.

"I’m really happy to have Cracker Barrel as a tour sponsor," remarked Smith. "Our local Cracker Barrel has become a very special place over the past several years. It’s where I take my Dad once a week for breakfast. We’ve shared some great memories there that I’ll always cherish. It feels great to have Cracker Barrel as part of my tour."

“We enjoyed working with Michael and his team when we exclusively released his Hymns album earlier this year, and were so happy for them when it was recently nominated for a Dove Award,” said Cracker Barrel Marketing Manager Julie Craig. “Christmas is a time when families come together, and often they gather to share a meal at Cracker Barrel. When we were approached about sponsoring his ‘Spirit of Christmas Tour,’ we knew it would be a great fit.” 

In addition to "The Spirit of Christmas Tour," Smith will co-headline three special events with long-time friend and fellow GRAMMY® winner Amy Grant. Teaming up in Dallas, Minneapolis and Atlanta, Smith and Grant will showcase their beloved Christmas set while performing alongside the full Symphony Orchestras. Full tour dates are listed below. For more information, visit: www.michaelwsmith.com.

Smith made national headlines last month as he announced the release of Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, featuring an all-star lineup of guests – Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Amy Grant, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Nettles, Bono and Michael McDonald. The album will be available in stores – including Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® - as well as online on September 30.

“This is the most unique and unusual record I've ever done in my 31-year career,” remarked Smith. The album was co-produced by Smith, CMA Music Awards and CMA Country Christmas producer Robert Deaton and renowned orchestral maestro David Hamilton.

"The Spirit of Christmas Tour"                                                                            
All dates subject to change                                                                                     

November 30 - Anaheim, CA
December 1  – Modesto, CA
December 3 – Clarksville, TN
December 4 – Nashville, TN
December 5 – Birmingham, AL
December 6 – Richmond, VA
December 11 – Wichita, KS
December 12 – Dallas, TX*
December 13 – Minneapolis, MN*
December 15  –  Atlanta, GA*
December 18 – Spokane, WA
December 19 – Portland, OR
December 20 – Seattle, WA 
December 21 – Abbotsford, BC, Canada
*Co-headline with Amy Grant
 

About Michael W. Smith:
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 28 No. 1 songs, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award, and more than 40 Dove Awards. Most recently, in honor of ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary, Smith, along with Amy Grant, was honored as “a cornerstone of Christian music,” for his groundbreaking career and significant influence on the genre. Throughout his career, the Contemporary Christian Music artist has had the opportunity to sing for several Presidents and national leaders. He actively supports the teen club Rocketown, Compassion International, and Samaritan’s Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. Michael and his wife Debbie live in Middle Tennessee, where they raised their five children. So far this year, Smith has released Hymns, his first-ever classic hymns album available exclusively at all Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® locations and CrackerBarrel.com, as well as his first studio worship album since 2008, Sovereign, which took a Top 10 spot on the Billboard 200, as well as the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Christian Albums Chart. His fourth career Christmas album, Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, will be available September 30, 2014. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.

About Cracker Barrel Old Country Store:
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. provides a friendly home-away-from-home in its old country stores and restaurants. Guests are cared for like family while relaxing and enjoying real home-style food and shopping that’s surprisingly unique, genuinely fun and reminiscent of America’s country heritage…all at a fair price. The restaurant serves up delicious, home-style country food such as meatloaf and homemade chicken n’ dumplins as well as its made-from-scratch biscuits using an old family recipe. The authentic old country retail store is fun to shop and offers unique gifts and self-indulgences.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBRL) was established in 1969 in Lebanon, Tenn. and operates 632 company-owned locations in 42 states. Every Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® location is open seven days a week with hours Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. For more information, visit crackerbarrel.com.

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Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Michael W. Smith Invites Host of A-List Performers to Join Him on New Christmas Record Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, Available September 30

Rolling Stone Country exclusively announces project with behind-the-scenes album trailer
 

Michael W. Smith’s "Spirit of Christmas Tour" set for later this year
 

Nashville, Tenn. (August 12, 2014) - Three-time GRAMMY® winner Michael W. Smith partnered with Rolling Stone Country today to announce the September 30 release of Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, featuring an all-star lineup of guests – Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Amy Grant, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Nettles, Bono and Michael McDonald. 

An acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas is Smith’s fourth Christmas project, following the successful releases of Michael W. Smith Christmas (1989), Christmastime (1998) and It’s A Wonderful Christmas (2007).

“This is the most unique and unusual record I've ever done in my 31-year career. The entire record was sequenced together before we recorded one song," recalls Smith. "Sonically you’re hearing me in a way that you’ve probably never heard me before. At one point it's like Smitty meets Bublé. There’s my granddaughter’s voice singing the song from 'Home Alone,' plus the whole orchestral and symphonic feeling of Christmas, mixed together with all these amazing voices and guests - yet it all fits together in a remarkable way."  

Marking his debut as an album producer, CMA Awards and CMA Country Christmas producerRobert Deaton was inspired by Smith’s performance with Jennifer Nettles during the 2013 CMA Country Christmas television program, and suggested to Smith they create a full Christmas recording as co-producers. The two welcomed renowned orchestral maestroDavid Hamilton as a third co-producer, who arranged and oversaw the London Symphony Orchestra’s recordings on the project.

“When we started talking about who could be on this record with him, the list got really narrow really fast," remarked co-producer Robert Deaton. "There’s a difference between a singer and an artist, or a celebrity and an artist. While we were fortunate to have these amazing guests on the record, it all feels like a cohesive piece and you never leave the fact that it’s a Michael W. Smith record. That was important. That, along with working with co-producer David Hamilton, who is the resident genius, was amazing. This entire process has just been phenomenal."

Eager to create a one-of-a-kind project to be played at Christmastime for years to come, Smith and Deaton were inspired by the original Carpenters Christmas album, wanting nostalgia to hit listeners right at the top of the record. Thematically, the album is uniquely divided into three sections, creating an overall arc to the recording. Beginning with the childlike and wintery aspects of the start of the Christmas season, the collection evolves with songs and instrumentations reflecting the true meaning of Christmas with the celebration of family and faith, concluding with what Christmas brought to the world, the birth of Jesus. 

This fall, Smith will bring holiday cheer to audiences across the country as he launches "The Spirit of Christmas Tour." Smith’s long-time friend and fellow GRAMMY® winner Amy Grant will co-bill with him in Dallas, Minneapolis and Atlanta. Tickets for many shows are on sale now. For a full list of tour dates, and ticket information, visit michaelwsmith.com/tour.
 

Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas
1. The Miracle of Christmas
2. It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
3. Happy Holidays/Holiday Season
4. Christmas Time Is Here (feat. Vince Gill)
5. White Christmas (feat. Lady Antebellum)
6. Somewhere In My Memory
7. The Spirit of Christmas (Deck the Halls, Good King Wenceslas, O Little Town of Bethlehem, Feels Like Christmas, O Come All Ye Faithful)
8. Silent Night (feat. Little Big Town)
9. What Child Is This (feat. Martina McBride)
10. Almost There (feat. Amy Grant)
11. All Is Well (feat. Carrie Underwood)
12. Christmas Day (feat. Jennifer Nettles)
13. The Darkest Midnight (Spoken Word by Bono)
14. Peace (with Special Guest Michael McDonald)
 

About Michael W. Smith:
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 28 No. 1 songs, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award, and more than 40 Dove Awards. Most recently, in honor of ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary, Smith, along with Amy Grant, was honored as “a cornerstone of Christian music,” for his groundbreaking career and significant influence on the genre. Throughout his career, the Contemporary Christian Music artist has had the opportunity to sing for several Presidents and national leaders. He actively supports the teen club Rocketown, Compassion International, and Samaritan’s Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. Michael and his wife Debbie live in Middle Tennessee, where they raised their five children. So far this year, Smith has released Hymns, his first-ever classic hymns album available exclusively at all Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® locations and CrackerBarrel.com, as well as his first studio worship album since 2008, Sovereign, which took a Top 10 spot on the Billboard 200, as well as the No. 1 spot on Billboard’s Christian Albums Chart. His fourth career Christmas album,Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas, will be available September 30, 2014. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.

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For hi-res photos, visit: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/wu94fuyiytx341g/AADjNVyqRTvdRez-Oz4UP6-8a?n=126616979

Photo Credit (All, excluding cover art): Ryan Smith

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com 

Rocketown, Founded by Michael W. Smith, Honored at Fourth Annual Business with a Purpose Awards Luncheon

Nashville, Tenn. (June 10, 2014) - Rocketown was honored at the Fourth Annual Business with a Purpose Awards Luncheon and Integrity Forum on Wednesday, June 4 at Lipscomb University. The event was presented by the Lipscomb University College of Business Hilton and Sallie Dean Institute for Corporate Governance and Integrity in partnership with the Center for Public Trust. Founded by acclaimed singer, songwriter and musician, Michael W. Smith, Rocketown was awarded in the not-for-profit organization category.

“Business with a Purpose is an event that celebrates the best of business,” said Turney Stevens, College of Business dean emeritus and director of the Dean Institute. “The annual Business with a Purpose Awards recognize those individuals and companies who have demonstrated their unusual commitments to outstanding service to the community, to encouraging their employees to achieve a higher social mission, and to achieving the highest level of profitability and financial success as well.”

About Rocketown
Rocketown was founded in 1994 by musician Michael W. Smith. The first of its kind in the Southeast, Rocketown has grown into a regional outreach as well as a model for Christian-based relational outreach across the country. Following the tragedy of Columbine in 1999, Rocketown’s board was inspired to grow the scope of programming and move to a central location in downtown Nashville. The current facility features three stages for live entertainment, Middle Tennessee’s only indoor skatepark, The Hub snack bar, a recording studio, and photography, art and dance studios. More than 800 teens from across the Middle Tennessee region participate in programs each week and at an after-school program at Nashville’s McGavock High School. For more information, visit http://rocketown.com/.

About Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 28 No. 1 songs, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award, and more than 40 Dove Awards. Most recently, in honor of ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary, Smith, along with Amy Grant, was honored as “a cornerstone of Christian music,” for his groundbreaking career and significant influence on the genre. Throughout his career, the Contemporary Christian Music artist has had the opportunity to sing for several Presidents and national leaders. He actively supports the teen club Rocketown, Compassion International, and Samaritan’s Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. Michael and his wife Debbie live in Middle Tennessee, where they raised their five children. His first studio worship album since 2008, Sovereign, is available now. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.

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Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Top 10 Billboard 200 Debut for Michael W. Smith’s “Stunning” and “Powerful” Sovereign

Three-time GRAMMY® winner nabs No. 1 spot on multiple Christian sales charts

Nashville, Tenn. (May 21, 2014) - Three-time GRAMMY® winner Michael W. Smith is celebrating a Top 10 Billboard 200 debut today for his new project, Sovereign, which released last week. In addition, the critically acclaimed album nabbed the No. 1 spot on the Christian/Gospel album and digital sales charts, as well as the Praise & Worship albums chart. Smith’s first studio worship album since 2008, the “stunning”* and “powerful”* Sovereign also peaked at No. 1 on iTunes and Amazon Christian and Gospel charts in the US and Canada.

"We at Capitol are very happy for Michael and Sovereign's top ten debut," remarked Peter York, President of Capitol Christian Music Group. "It has been an honor to have Michael become a part of the Capitol CMG family, and we could not be more proud of our first project with him. We're looking forward to continued success for an album that is full of compelling, anthemic and engaging songs."

Smith just wrapped a very busy street week of radio and in-store visits across the country, along with speaking to Kathie Lee Gifford yesterday for her Kathie Lee & Company podcast. He also made appearances on Fox News Channel’s highly rated shows Hannity, Huckabee and Fox & Friends, as well as Sean Hannity’s No. 1 rated talk radio show. He also visited FoxNewsChannel.com’s “Spirited Debate” and 100 Huntley Street, which aired across the U.S. and Canada.

Sovereign is also available as a Deluxe Edition, which includes a special DVD concert filmed at Smith's barn in Franklin, Tenn. and features guest appearances from Kari Jobe and Leeland Mooring. The DVD also includes special behind the scenes footage and content with Smith discussing the inspiration behind Sovereign. 

About Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 28 No. 1 songs, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award, and more than 40 Dove Awards. Most recently, in honor of ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary, Smith, along with Amy Grant, was honored as “a cornerstone of Christian music,” for his groundbreaking career and significant influence on the genre. Throughout his career, the Contemporary Christian Music artist has had the opportunity to sing for several Presidents and national leaders. He actively supports the teen club Rocketown, Compassion International, and Samaritan’s Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. Michael and his wife Debbie live in Middle Tennessee, where they raised their five children. His first studio worship album since 2008, Sovereign, is available now. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.

* "A stunning collection …."
-Louder Than The Music

* "One of the most moving, powerful collection of songs of the year…”
-CCM

Get Connected with Michael W. Smith
Website // www.michaelwsmith.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/michaelwsmithofficial
Twitter // www.twitter.com/michaelwsmith

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Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Michael W. Smith Receives Thunderous Applause for Sovereign

Three-time GRAMMY® winner to appear on Fox News Channel’s Hannity and Huckabee this week

Smith shares the meaning behind Sovereign with TIME.com

Nashville, Tenn. (May 13, 2014) - Today, three-time GRAMMY® winner Michael W. Smith opens a new chapter in his illustrious career as he releases Sovereign, his first studio worship album since 2008 and his first album with new label partner Sparrow Records and Capitol Christian Music Group. 

This week, the man who in honor of ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary was (along with Amy Grant), recently honored as a “cornerstone of Christian music,” will hit the road in support of Sovereign and it's Top 10 single, "You Won't Let Go." Appearing on Fox News Channel’s highly rated shows Hannity and Huckabee, as well as Sean Hannity’s No. 1 rated talk radio show, FoxNewsChannel.com’s “Spirited Debate” and 100 Huntley Street across the U.S. and Canada.

In addition to radio and in-store visits in Nashville, Dallas, New York and more, Smith shared with TIME.com readers about the meaning behind Sovereign in a personal piece he penned here.

When Worship Leader recently said “Sovereign is the record we've waited to hear from Michael W. Smith for a long time,” they weren’t alone in their sentiments, as the project has received thunderous applause from media outlets nationwide:

"One of the most moving, powerful collection of songs of the year, Michael
is doing what he does best, ushering listeners into worship with excellence."
-CCM

"He is an artist fully capable of resting on his repertoire but instead proceeds to experiment and deliver relevant yet timeless music. More than any other, Sovereign proves to be the perfect balance of his passion for worship with his pop-music artistic sensibilities."
-Christian Retailing

"Sovereign defies the stereotype."
-WORLD

"A pioneer in the '80s, an icon in the '90s and a consistent mainstay ever since, Sovereign is a solid musical representation of Michael W. Smith's growth as an artist in the last decade."
-New Release Tuesday, 4 out of 5 stars

"A poignant, powerful and prolific album, and one of the standouts in a career spanning 30 years, and one that I see continuing for years to come."
-Indie Vision Music

"A stunning collection of beautiful songs that grasps the love Michael has for his Saviour."
-Louder Than The Music, 4.5 out of 5 stars

"Its impressive how powerful and dominant Sovereign is …when it’s all said and done this could go down as one of the best records of his career."
-The Front Row Report

"… Sovereign just might be his most youthful and adventurous album yet."
-The Underground

Sovereign is also available as a Deluxe Edition, which includes a special DVD concert filmed at Smith's barn in Franklin, Tenn. and features guest appearances from Kari Jobe and Leeland Mooring. The DVD also includes special behind the scenes footage and content with Smith discussing the inspiration behind Sovereign. 

About Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 28 No. 1 songs, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award, and more than 40 Dove Awards. Most recently, in honor of ASCAP’s 100th Anniversary, Smith, along with Amy Grant, was honored as “a cornerstone of Christian music,” for his groundbreaking career and significant influence on the genre. Throughout his career, the Contemporary Christian Music artist has had the opportunity to sing for several Presidents and national leaders. He actively supports the teen club Rocketown, Compassion International, and Samaritan’s Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. Michael and his wife Debbie live in Middle Tennessee, where they raised their five children. His first studio worship album since 2008, Sovereign, is available now. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.

Get Connected with Michael W. Smith
Website // www.michaelwsmith.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/michaelwsmithofficial
Twitter // www.twitter.com/michaelwsmith

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Ryan Anderson
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989
www.themcollective.com

GRAMMY® Winner and Musical Icon Michael W. Smith to Release Sovereign May 13

Sovereign marks Smith's first studio worship album since 2008

Sovereign Deluxe Edition to include DVD concert with special appearances by Kari Jobe and Leeland Mooring

Nashville, Tenn. (March 20, 2014) - After selling more than 15 million albums, scoring 28 No. 1 hits, earning three GRAMMY® Awards and more than 40 Dove Awards, musical icon Michael W. Smith will open a new chapter in his career on May 13 as he releasesSovereign, his first studio worship album since 2008 and his first album with new label partner Sparrow Records and Capitol Christian Music Group. Sovereign will also be available as a Deluxe Edition, which will include a special DVD concert filmed at Smith's barn in Franklin, Tenn. and will feature guest appearances from Kari Jobe and Leeland Mooring. The DVD will also include special behind the scenes footage and content with Smith discussing the inspiration behind Sovereign. 

Well known as one of the most gifted artists and worship leaders of his generation, Smith’s previous worship projects have sold well over 3.5 million albums. Throughout the entirety of his career, Smith's albums have received one Double Platinum, seven Platinum and 16 Gold RIAA Certifications. However, not one to rest on past success as he hits the “sweet spot” of his career, Smith is deliberately entering a new creative chapter on Sovereign, crafting a vibrant collection of vertically-focused songs with a fresh sense of musical innovation.

“I’m enjoying making music more than I ever have in my entire life,” Smith exudes. “I’m having fun and I’m excited about this record and this next chapter.”

In the spirit of this new adventure, Smith enlisted the talents of several songwriters and producers he hasn’t collaborated with previously for Sovereign, including Seth Mosley (Newsboys, Sanctus Real, Love & the Outcome) and Kyle Lee (Natalie Grant). Smith also tapped the expertise of producers Chris Stevens (TobyMac, Carrie Underwood, Mandisa) and West Coast-based writer/producer Jeremy Edwardson (Kari Jobe, Jesus Culture). Bridging the gap between a generation of worship leaders, Smith brought in one of his favorite singers, Kari Jobe, to sing on a track.

“You Won’t Let Go,” the first single from Sovereign, has quickly become a staple in Smith’s live shows. The song has also given Smith a triumphant reentry to Christian radio where it was immediately the most added at Christian AC, and currently sits at No. 22 on the National Christian Audience chart. The lyric video for the track can be seen here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRb_NIQTzyA.

Sovereign
1. You Won’t Let Go
2. Heaven Come Down
3. Miracle
4. Sky Spills Over
5. All Arise
6. You Are The Fire
7. Christ Be All Around Me
8. Sovereign Over Us
9. Hide Myself
10. The Same Power
11. I Lay Me Down
12. The One That Really Matters (Featuring Kari Jobe)

Sovereign Deluxe Edition CD+DVD

CD
1. You Won’t Let Go
2. Heaven Come Down
3. Miracle
4. Sky Spills Over
5. All Arise
6. You Are The Fire
7. Christ Be All Around Me
8. Sovereign Over Us
9. Hide Myself
10. The Same Power
11. I Lay Me Down
12. The One That Really Matters (Featuring Kari Jobe)

DVD
1. You Won’t Let Go
2. You Are The Fire
3. Hide Myself
4. The Same Power
5. All Arise
6. Sovereign Over Us
7. I Lay Me Down
8. Christ Be All Around Me (Featuring Leeland Mooring)
9. The One That Really Matters (Featuring Kari Jobe)
10. You Are The Fire (Reprise)

About Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith is an acclaimed singer, songwriter, and musician who has sold more than 15 million albums, achieved 28 No. 1 songs, earned three GRAMMY® Awards, one American Music Award, and more than 40 Dove Awards. Throughout his career, the Contemporary Christian Music artist has had the opportunity to sing for several Presidents and national leaders. He actively supports the teen club Rocketown, Compassion International, and Samaritan’s Purse, the ministry headed by Franklin Graham. Michael and his wife Debbie live in Middle Tennessee, where they raised their five children. His first studio worship album since 2008, Sovereign, will be available in stores on May 13. For more information, visit www.michaelwsmith.com.

Get Connected with Michael W. Smith
Website // www.michaelwsmith.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/michaelwsmithofficial
Twitter // www.twitter.com/michaelwsmith

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