Hollywood Museum Celebrates Amy Grant and other Christmas Icons

Museum to showcase holiday legends spanning over 60 years  

Hollywood, CA (November 12, 2014) — Amy Grant will be honored at Lights, Cameras...Stars! Holidays Hollywood Style, a holiday exhibition at The Hollywood Museum honoring iconic celebrities who have made Christmas a significant part of their careers. 

The exhibit opens on Thursday, November 13, with a special ceremony and cocktail party. Amy Grant's 'Christmas Career' will be one of the highlights. She has recorded four Christmas albums, hosted two christmas television specials and toured with the Nashville Symphony on several holiday tours. 

Other stars to be showcased at this year's holiday extravaganza include Karen Carpenter, Bing Crosby, Judy Garland, Perry Como, Nat King Cole, Vera Ellen and Mel Torme, all of whom have become synonymous with Christmas. ‘Tyrone Power: Man, Myth and Mayhem’ will also be premiering that evening celebrating the 100th anniversary of Tyrone Power. 

Bob Pranga, better known as ‘Dr. Christmas…Tree Stylist to the Stars’ is decorating for both the museum and this event said, “because all of these stars have been at the very heart of our Christmas experience, this provides a great opportunity for families to come and experience the magic of Christmas with a little Hollywood glitter, because everyone loves the holidays, and everyone loves Hollywood, it’s a perfect combination.”  

The Hollywood Museum, the official museum of Hollywood, has the most extensive collection of Hollywood memorabilia in the world. The museum, featuring four floors of breathtaking exhibits, is home to more than 10,000 authentic show biz treasures– one of a kind costumes, props, photographs, scripts, stars’ car collections and personal artifacts, posters, and vintage memorabilia from favorite films and TV shows. The museum also showcases the history of Hollywood and the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

What: ‘LIGHTS, CAMERAS…STARS! HOLIDAYS HOLLYWOOD STYLE’

When: THURSDAY, NOV. 13, 2014 at 6:00pm

Where: 1660 N. HIGHLAND AVE (near Hollywood Blvd)

HOLLYWOOD, CA 90028

**Please join us on Thursday, Nov 13th  at 6:00pm for hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and a special exhibit opening ceremony. RSVP MANDATORY TO: corey@redwalktalentPR.com**  

--Corey Ryan 
Red Walk Talent PR
310.270.1758
corey@redwalktalentpr.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

Chris Tomlin Joins The Board of CURE International

Atlanta, Ga. (November 11, 2014) — CURE International, the largest provider of reconstructive surgery to disabled children in the emerging world, announced this week the addition of Chris Tomlin to its Board of Directors.

Tomlin first learned about CURE through his involvement with the Passion conferences. “I was just drawn to how well CURE was doing things and how they’re really changing kids' lives,” stated Tomlin. He continued, “CURE just has integrity through and through at every level. I’ve found this is a place where I can trust where the money is going, and it’s really going to heal these kids.”

CURE President and CEO Dale Branter stated, “Chris and his wife Lauren have been such faithful friends of CURE for years now. As a result of their support, thousands of children have been healed. I am thrilled that they have chosen to take this next step to join our Board of Directors.”

Tomlin joins CURE’s Board of Directors as the organization prepares to open its 10th hospital, the Tebow CURE Hospital in the Philippines. To learn more about Tomlin’s decision to join CURE, visit cure.org/tomlin.

About CURE International 
CURE International heals the sick and proclaims the Kingdom of God. It is the largest provider of reconstructive surgery to disabled children in the emerging world. Since opening the doors of its first surgical teaching hospital in Kijabe, Kenya, in 1998, CURE’s focus on bringing healing to developing nations has resulted in more than 2.4 million patient visits and over 167,000 surgeries to correct physically disabling conditions. CURE has also trained more than 7,200 medical professionals, raising the standard of care in the countries where it operates. Please visit http://cure.org for more information.

About Chris Tomlin
With nine albums, 12 No. 1 radio singles, a GRAMMY® Award and eight additional nominations, three Billboard Music Awards, 21 Dove Awards, a platinum and four gold albums to his credit, Chris Tomlin is among the most well-known and influential artists in contemporary Christian music. Referred to by Time magazine as “most likely the most often sung artist anywhere,” he has sold more than 5.3 million albums and over 8 million digital tracks. In the midst of his record-breaking success and continuing his role as worship leader at Passion City Church in Atlanta, GA, Tomlin continues touring and leading at Passion Conference gatherings across the US and worldwide. Burning Lights debuted at No. 1 atop the Billboard 200 in January 2013, making history as only the fourth Christian music album to do so, and his tenth recording, Love Ran Red, is available now.

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The Digital Age Announces Rehearsals Vol. 2

Rehearsals Vol. 1 & 2 to be released as dual vinyl package

Nashville, Tenn. (November 5, 2014) – Fair Trade band The Digital Age has announced the release of their latest rehearsals project – Rehearsals Vol. 2. Recorded and produced in their hometown studio in Waco, Texas, Rehearsals Vol. 2 features six new tracks that together exude the band’s commitment to continue creating music for the Church. The album is available directly to fans via the band’s website: www.thedigitalagemusic.com. The album will be also available on iTunes and Amazon starting November 18.

The Digital Age released Rehearsals Vol. 1 in the summer of 2012 as a formal reintroduction of the band. For the first time, both Rehearsals Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 will be released on vinyl and will be available as a dual package – Rehearsals.

"The whole Rehearsals idea is us learning songs that the church is singing and putting our own unique spin on them,” said Mark Waldrop of The Digital Age. "We wanted to keep the general flow of Rehearsals Vol. 2 the same as Vol. 1, so we curated a track listing that combined a few worship tracks, some classic hymns and some new material. We really enjoy the relationship we have with our fans, and a direct release through our website allows us the ability to dictate the pricing and options of the release. We're also able to offer things like song stems, chord charts, and vinyl for much cheaper than through traditional outlets."

Commenting on the track listing for Rehearsals Vol. 2, Waldrop added: "We all grew up in the south and have a deep affinity for hymns that we were raised singing, so "It Is Well" and "Blessed Assurance" were songs that we couldn't wait to explore sonically. We're involved with a collegiate ministry here in Waco called Vertical, and “Oceans" and "Fall Afresh" seem to be really connecting with the hearts of the college students near us. We wrote "All Rise (Jesus, Majesty)" with Jason Ingram last year and couldn't wait to put it on a release. Finally, we wanted to round out the album with "Take Me Home," a song written by a local worship leader in Waco that we all really connected with." For a full track listing and order, see below.

The Digital Age released their first video for Rehearsals Vol. 2 earlier this year, covering Hillsong UNITED’s “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” and racking up more than 150,000 views. Keeping with the tradition of Rehearsals Vol. 1, the band will release new "Rehearsals" videos over the next several weeks on their YouTube page. Fans who purchase Rehearsals Vol. 2 today will gain instant access to all of the videos. 

The Digital Age released their debut studio album Evening:Morning last year, hitting No. 3 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart and topping the Christian/Gospel chart for Streaming Albums on release week. Their single “Break Every Chain” was embraced by Christian radio across the country, picking up significant spins on K-LOVE and holding the most played spot on the network for several weeks.

This year, the band has expanded their ministry focus towards the country of Brazil, including a transformative trip to São Paulo for the Livres Conference 2014. Flexing their producer chops, The Digital Age also partnered with a prominent Brazilian Christian artist Fernandinho Faz Chover to produce his upcoming album - Fernandinho Acústico.
 

Rehearsals Vol. 2 Track Listing
1. Fall Afresh 
2. Blessed Assurance 
3. All Rise (Jesus, Majesty) 
4. It Is Well 
5. Oceans
6. Take Me Home 

For more information about The Digital Age, visit their website atwww.thedigitalagemusic.com.
 

About The Digital Age:
2012, a year commonly associated with endings, saw a new beginning for former members of the David Crowder*Band. On the heels of their final project with the David Crowder*Band, Mark, Mike D, Bwack and Jack sought to continue writing, performing and producing music together for the Church. Out of this desire, The Digital Age was born. With roots already planted at University Baptist Church in the small college town of Waco, TX, The Digital Age constructed their own studio in the place where their ministry started. The Digital Age released their Rehearsals EP as a formal re-introduction of the new band and their debut, full-length album Evening:Morning was released in August 2013. Rehearsals Vol. 2 is available now.

Get Connected with The Digital Age
Website // www.thedigitalagemusic.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/TheDigitalAge
Twitter // www.twitter.com/The_Digital_Age
YouTube // www.youtube.com/thedigitalagemusic

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Media Contact:
Ryan Anderson
the media collective
ryan@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.themcollective.com

Five-Time GRAMMY® Award Winner TobyMac Debuts New Remix Project EYE'M ALL MIXED UP (REMIXES)

"Worship, Stories & Songs Tour" featuring Matt Maher kicks off this week
 

Nashville, Tenn. (November 5, 2014) — Five-time GRAMMY® winner TobyMac debuted his latest remix project this week - EYE'M ALL MIXED UP (REMIXES). The project is his first release since his history-making studio album EYE ON IT, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, only the third Christian album to accomplish this feat at the time of its release. EYE’M ALL MIXED UP (REMIXES) features reworked tracks off EYE ON IT by remixers Capital Kings, Telemitry, Soul Glow Activatur of Family Force 5 and more.

EYE ON IT debuted to unprecedented critical acclaim, nabbing the GRAMMY® Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album, and media outlets are embracing the remix project with the same enthusiasm:

"TobyMac fans will love the new energy breathed into these songs by an elite group of producers. This album should be an essential for every dance party across the nation."
-NewReleaseTuesday.com

"All of the songs here are excellently crafted and some of them are even improvements of the originals."
-Jesus Freak Hideout

"Christian music pioneer TobyMac has reinvented himself yet again."
-Breathecast.com

"With an impressive cast of guest producers and some great source material in TobyMac’s award winning album, there’s very little to not like about this release."
-Soul Audio

"This album contains brilliant musical diversity."
-Hollywood Jesus

"It’s as if you haven’t heard the songs before. Breathing new life into a song that was created two years ago can be hard to do.The album is a testament to TobyMac’s creativity and musicianship."
-The Front Row Report

"This is a must have for TobyMac fans!"
-The Global Dispatch

This week, TobyMac will head out on the "Worship, Stories & Songs Tour" featuring Matt Maher and Ryan Stevenson. The 20-city tour is a departure from TobyMac’s traditional high-energy live performance and will instead focus on meaningful depictions of the stories behind the songs. For more information and full tour dates, visit www.tobymac.com/tour.
 

EYE'M ALL MIXED UP (REMIXES) Tracklist
1. EYE ON IT (Phenomenon Remix by Soul Glow Activatur)
2. FORGIVENESS (Feat. Lecrae) (Neon Feather Remix)
3. SPEAK LIFE (Telemitry Remix)
4. ME WITHOUT YOU (Capital Kings Remix)
5. STEAL MY SHOW (Jack Shocklee Remix)
6. UnSTOPPABLE (Feat. Blanca) (Phenomenon Remix by Soul Glow Activatur)
7. LOSE MYSELF (Capital Kings Remix)
8. EYE ON IT (Kaveman Remix)
9. THANKFUL FOR YOU (Thunderbird Remix)
10. MAC DADDY (Tru’s Reality) (Telemitry Remix)
11. ME WITHOUT YOU (Telemitry Remix)

EYE'M ALL MIXED UP (REMIXES) Videos
"UnSTOPPABLE (feat. Blanca) (Phenomenon Remix by Soul Glow Activatur)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJ4HCtsC26Q

"EYE ON IT (Phenomenon Remix by Soul Glow Activatur)"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDfbzqjAgY8

"SPEAK LIFE (Telemitry Remix)"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSFHchf5T40

"FORGIVENESS (Feat. Lecrae) (Neon Feather Remix)"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gN7cg6GHq3E

About TobyMac:
With more than 11 million units in career sales, TobyMac's career continues on the fast track. His most recent studio album, EYE ON IT, garnered him the GRAMMY® Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album and the highest chart debut of his solo career landing at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and topping the iTunes® Overall and Christian sales charts. The project made TobyMac only the third artist ever to debut atop the Billboard 200 with a Christian music album. His previous four solo projects have received RIAA Gold Certifications and his live DVD, Alive & Transported, is RIAA Certified platinum and received a GRAMMY® award. In less than 15 months between 2012-2013, TobyMac received two GRAMMY® awards, two Billboard Music Awards for Top Christian Artist and Top Christian Album, his first American Music Award for Favorite Artist in the Contemporary/Inspirational category, Dove Awards for "Artist of the Year," "Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year," "Recorded Music Packaging of the Year," "Short Form Video of the Year," a K-LOVE Music Award for “Artist of the Year” and swept the 2013 Australian Music Award. At the 2014 K-LOVE Fan Awards, he won the award for "Best Live Show." His latest remix project EYE'M ALL MIXED UP (REMIXES) is available now.

Get Connected with TobyMac:
Website // www.tobymac.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/tobymac
Twitter // www.twitter.com/officialtobymac
Instagram // www.instagram.com/officialtobymac 
YouTube // www.youtube.com/tobymacmusic
iTunes // itunes.apple.com/us/artist/tobymac/id635550
Spotify // open.spotify.com/artist/5VX8hxrcfJWwaTLiqGUHG3
 
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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

“Incredibly Rich,” “Flawless” and “Infectious” Describe GRAMMY® Winner Chris Tomlin’s Tenth Recording LOVE RAN RED

New Single “Jesus Loves Me” hits top 10 as Tomlin continues national promo blitz with appearances on Fox & Friends, SIRIUS XM, Billboard, Fox News Radio and more

 "Love Ran Red Tour" to launch February 20, 2015

Nashville, Tenn. (October 30, 2014) — As critics praise GRAMMY® winner Chris Tomlin’s Love Ran Red as “Incredibly Rich,” (New Release Tuesday) “Flawless” and “Infectious” (Church Mag), and Worship Leader magazine calls him "the worship leader of the century," the multi-platinum selling songwriter is celebrating the release of his tenth album as his radio single “Jesus Loves Me” hits top 10 on both the National Christian Audience and AC Indicator charts.   

Crisscrossing the country in support of the album, Tomlin has hit more than two cities a day on a multi-city promo blitz to radio stations in Houston, Dallas, Washington D.C., St. Louis, Baltimore and Atlanta, as well as pre-taped appearances on The Fox News Channel’s hit morning show Fox and Friends (airs November 1st), a SIRIUS XM The Message special, a Billboard Studio Performance, Keep the Faith Radio, Fox News Radio and more. 

                                                                          Chris Tomlin Visits Fox & Friends

Pictured L-R: Shelley Giglio, Chief Strategist, sixstepsrecords; Al Skop SiriusXM Director of Programming, The Message; Chris Tomlin; Mike McCloskey, sixstepsrecords Artist Development & Management 

                                                           Chris Tomlin performs for a Billboard Studio Session

Additionally, the 2014 BMI and GMA Dove Award-winning Songwriter of the Year has also announced the spring leg of his "Love Ran Red Tour," which will launch on February 18, 2015 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. On the heels of Tomlin’s participation in the annual Passion 2015events in Atlanta and Houston, the tour, also featuring Ireland’s Rend Collective and Tenth Avenue North, will hit 33 US cities. (See full tour routing below, and for tickets visit http://www.christomlin.com).

Produced by longtime friend and collaborator Ed Cash, Love Ran Red features songs penned by Tomlin, Cash, Matt Redman, Jonah Myrin, Ben Glover, Jason Ingram and Ben Fielding. A special Deluxe Edition features the full-length studio album along with four additional tracks, along with a Walmart exclusive featuring the Love Ran Red album plus 8 bonus songs and a Target exclusive featuring the full-length Love Ran Red (Deluxe Edition) plus 2 bonus songs.

About Chris Tomlin
With nine albums, 12 No. 1 radio singles, a GRAMMY® Award and eight additional nominations, three Billboard Music Awards, 21 Dove Awards, a platinum and four gold albums to his credit, Chris Tomlin is among the most well-known and influential artists in contemporary Christian music. Referred to by Time magazine as “most likely the most often sung artist anywhere,” Tomlin also has 15 of the Top 100 CCLI songs, with 4 of them being in the top 10. BMI and GMA Dove Awards' 2014 Songwriter of the Year, Tomlin’s “How Great Is Our God” was his first No. 1 on the CCLI Top 25, moving to No. 1 after becoming one of the fasting rising modern day hymns in CCLI chart history. In addition to having sold more than 5.3 million albums and over 8 million digital tracks, Tomlin made history as his single “Jesus Messiah” (Hello Love) garnered 97 adds at radio its first week and skyrocketed to No. 1, making it the biggest ever add date in Christian radio history. In the midst of his record breaking success, and continuing his role as worship leader at Passion City Church in Atlanta, GA, Tomlin continues touring and leading at Passion Conference gatherings across the US and worldwide. Burning Lights debuted at No. 1 atop the Billboard 200 in January 2013, making history as only the fourth Christian music album to do so, and his tenth recording, Love Ran Red is available now. 

[Get Connected with Chris Tomlin] 
Website // http://www.christomlin.com 
Facebook // http://www.facebook.com/christomlin 
Twitter //https://twitter.com/christomlin 
Spotify// https://play.spotify.com/artist/6pRi6EIPXz4QJEOEsBaA0m
Instagram // http://instagram.com/christomlin

Love Ran Red Tour  (all dates subject to change):

2/18 – San Juan, PR – Puerto Rico Convention Center *

2/20 – Miami (Coral Gables), FL – Bank United Center at the University of Miami

2/22 – Pensacola, FL – Pensacola Civic Center

2/24 – Gainesville, FL – Stephen C. O’Connell Center

2/26 – Ft. Myers (Estero), FL – Germain Arena

2/27 – Tampa, FL - Sundome

2/28 – Dothan, AL – Dothan Civic Center

3/1 – Charlotte, NC – Time Warner Cable Arena

3/5 – Greenville, SC – Bon Secours Wellness Arena

3/7 – Johnson City, TN – Freedom Hall Civic Center

3/8 – Indianapolis, IN – Bankers Life Fieldhouse

3/10 – Troy, OH – Hobart Arena

3/13 – Chicago (South Barrington), IL – Willow Creek Community Church

3/14 – Milwaukee, WI – US Cellular Arena

3/15 – Toledo, OH – Huntington Center

3/19 – Hershey, PA – GIANT Center

3/20 – Lowell, MA – Tsongas Center at UMass Lowell

3/21 – Washington DC (Fairfax), VA – George Mason University – Patriot Center

3/22 – Hampton, VA – Hampton Coliseum

3/26 – St. Louis, MO – Scottrade Center

3/27 – Kansas City (Independence), MO – Independence Events Center

3/28 – Minneapolis, MN – Target Center

3/29 – Sioux Falls, SD – Denny Sanford Premier Center

3/31 – Des Moines, IA – Wells Fargo Arena

4/9 – Kennewick, WA – Toyota Center

4/10 – Portland, OR – Moda Center

4/11 – Seattle, WA – Key Arena

4/12 – Abbotsford, BC – Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre

4/14 – San Jose, CA – San Jose State Event Center

4/16 – Fresno, CA – Save Mart Center

4/17 – Las Vegas (Henderson), NV – Henderson Pavilion

4/18 – Los Angeles (Irvine), CA – Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

4/19 – Phoenix, AZ – Grand Canyon University

4/21 – Albuquerque (Rio Rancho), NM – Santa Ana Star Center

4/23 – North Little Rock, AR – Verizon Arena

4/24 – Dallas (Grand Prairie), TX – Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie

4/25 – Houston (The Woodlands), TX – Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

*Chris Tomin only 

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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  

Lacey Sturm Shares Her Life Revelations in New Book "The Reason - How I Discovered a Life Worth Living" Available Now

Sturm excites on media blitz with appearances on TBN’s Praise the Lord, LIFE Today,
Keep The Faith Radio and more

Nashville, Tenn. (October 9, 2014) – Former Flyleaf singer Lacey Sturm has a lot of reason to celebrate with the release of her first book – “The Reason: How I Discovered a Life Worth Living” – available now. Chronicling her courageous story of a battle against depression, suicidal thoughts, drug use and physical abuse, "The Reason - How I Discovered a Life Worth Living" leads readers down the rocky path that led to Sturm founding the popular and GRAMMY-nominated rock group Flyleaf.

In celebration of the book release, Sturm joined Kirk Cameron last week on the largest Christian television network – TBN – and their acclaimed shows “Praise The Lord" and "Real Videos." Later this fall, Sturm will join LIFE Today TV to continue sharing the story of “The Reason.” An excerpt of "The Reason" was also featured in this month's CCM Magazine, and Sturm will visit with Keep The Faith Radio later this month.

TBN's Praise The Lord (Hosted by Kirk Cameron)

CCM Magazine

LIFE Today TV

The book's foreword is written by Brian "Head" Welch, co-founder and guitarist for the GRAMMY®-winning metal band Korn. In "The Reason," Welch mentions his own struggle with depression and says, "A book with this much substance will, without a doubt, live on to change lives for generations."

Media outlets are offering their own praise about "The Reason - How I Discovered a Life Worth Living," with Digital Journal calling the book “…a compelling read from start to finish. It is raw and powerful, and one of the best autobiographies about faith.” Icon vs. Icon said the book is a "must read for all of her fans, both new and old. The book offers a rare glimpse into the soul of the artist and what continues to drive her." 

"The Reason: How I Discovered a Life Worth Living" is available now. 
 

About Lacey Sturm
In 2002, Lacey Sturm co-founded Flyleaf and led the rock band to international success as its frontwoman. The band's single "All Around Me" went platinum, soaring to the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning recognition as an award-winning song at the 2009 BMI Pop Awards. "All Around Me" was one of many successful Flyleaf songs as numerous other singles landed on Billboard's Alternative, Rock and Christian charts. Sturm left Flyleaf in 2012 to focus on a solo career and has had success outside of the rock band, including performing on Third Day's single, "Born Again," which received GRAMMY® nominations for Best Gospel Song and Best Gospel Performance, and which Billboard acclaimed Sturm's vocal performance to be "gorgeous." She is also featured in "Take The Bullets Away," with Atlantic Records recording artist We As Human, currently a top 20 and rising Active Rock hit, while Sturm's song "Heavy Prey" featuring Geno Lenardo appeared on the soundtrack for the 2012 major motion picture "Underworld: Awakening." Sturm now uses her influence to speak out to others about her life-changing faith. Part of The Whosoevers, a youth-focused movement to positively impact today's music, skateboarding and art culture, Sturm also performs and speaks for the RESET Movement, rallying students and young adults to pray for a spiritual awakening in the United States. Additionally, Sturm partners with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association to share her message of hope and recorded a song for the association called "Mercy Tree," which can be heard on her website. The song and Sturm's personal story were featured in Billy Graham's 2013 sermon and film "My Hope America - The Cross." She was also a special guest at Graham's 95th birthday party celebrating the short film.

[Get Connected with Lacey Sturm]
Website: http://laceysturm.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaceySturm81
Instagram: http://i.instagram.com/ilovejoshsturm
Twitter: https://twitter.com/laceysturm
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/LaceySturm81
 

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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

Mandisa Nabs First Career Dove Award for Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year for Overcomer

Mandisa excites 45th Annual Dove Awards with live performance of “Overcomer”
with Cantinas Dance Project

 
Mandisa’s Get Up: The Remixes available now
 

Nashville, Tenn. (October 9, 2014) – The 45th Annual GMA Dove Awards took place last night at Lipscomb University in Nashville and, once again, Mandisa was a highlight of the show. Mandisa entered the night as one of the most nominated artists – alongside host Lecrae, Artist of the Year Hillsong UNITED and Matt Maher – and was the previous year’s winner of the 2013 UPLift Someone Award.

Taking the stage with the Cantinas Dance Project out of California, Mandisa performed her No. 1 hit “Overcomer” for an excited Dove Awards audience. Immediately following her performance, Mandisa was awarded her first career Dove Award for Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year for Overcomer. 

"I am very thankful for this," said Mandisa. "I think back to eight years ago, and American Idol, and I was convinced that I was being kicked to the curb. I didn't know what to do, but I'm a living witness, if you seek first the Kingdom of God.”

Overcomer has already proven to be Mandisa’s best work, having picked up a GRAMMY®Award earlier this year for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album. The title track, which earned its own GRAMMY®, remained at No. 1 for 12 weeks, was performed on ABC's Good Morning America, features a star-studded music video and has nearly 4.5 million views on YouTube. The album also propelled Mandisa to win the Female Artist of the Year and Song of the Year (“Overcomer”) awards at the 2014 K-LOVE Fan Awards.

Just last month, Mandisa debuted her first full-length remix album, Get Up: The Remixes. The project features 11 remixes of her biggest hits - including "Overcomer," "Stronger" and "Good Morning." Mandisa is currently on the “Thrive Tour” with Casting Crowns and Sidewalk Prophets. To see if Mandisa is coming to a city near you, visit mandisaofficial.com/home/tour. 

The 45th Annual GMA Dove Awards will broadcast exclusively on Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) this Sunday, October 12.

About Mandisa:
With more than 1 million records sold, GRAMMY® Award Winner, Dove Award winner and American Idol Season 5 finalist Mandisa is a voice of encouragement and truth to people facing life’s challenges all around the world. In less than a year, Mandisa performed her three hit singles "Overcomer," "Good Morning," and "Stronger" on the highest rated morning show, ABC’s Good Morning America (GMA.) Her performance of “Stronger” welcomed the emotional return of beloved morning host Robin Roberts. The NFL recently welcomed Mandisa to perform the national anthem during a Sunday night NFL Network game to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness month, where she was joined by cancer survivors within the San Francisco ‘49ers family. Her album, Overcomer, released in 2013 and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Christian Albums Chart, with the album's title track holding on to the No. 1 spot for 12 weeks on the National Christian Audience chart as well as the No. 1 position on the Christian/Gospel Core Digital sales chart for several weeks. In 2014 alone, Mandisa has picked up her first GRAMMY Award, Dove Award and K-LOVE Fan Award. Mandisa was awarded a GRAMMY® for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album and a Dove Award for Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year for Overcomer. Additionally, Mandisa was awarded Song of the Year ("Overcomer") and Female Artist of the Year at the 2014 K-LOVE Fan Awards. Her first full-length remix album, Get Up: The Remixes, is available now. 

(Get Connected with Mandisa) 
Website // www.mandisaofficial.com
Twitter // www.twitter.com/mandisaofficial
Facebook // www.facebook.com/mandisaofficial
YouTube // www.youtube.com/user/MandisaOfficial
Spotify // open.spotify.com/artist/0YPElKYjOD1sofFCtLdYj3

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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

MercyMe Surprised with Honor for 2 Million Downloads of Worldwide Hit "I Can Only Imagine" and Wins Short Form Video of the Year at 45th Annual GMA Dove Awards

                                                     (Photo Credit: Rick Diamond and Terry Wyatt of Getty Images)

Lead singer Bart Millard co-hosts with Lecrae, set to air on TBN this Sunday, October 12 

Nashville, Tenn. (October 8, 2014) - MercyMe lead-singer Bart Millard co-hosted the 45th Annual GMA Dove Awards with Lecrae last night, and even so, had no idea what was in store following the band's lively performance of their No. 1 radio single "Greater." As the multi-platinum, award-winning band wrapped, the band's manager, Scott Brickell and Fair Trade Service's President Jeff Moseley presented MercyMe with a plaque commemorating 2 million downloads of their worldwide hit "I Can Only Imagine," followed by a standing ovation from the audience. "I Can Only Imagine" is the first single in the Christian genre to receive RIAA Double-Platinum Certification and also made history as the first to go Platinum. The GMA Dove Awards drew a record attendance at Lipscomb University's Allen Arena, and the entire show will be broadcast exclusively on Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) on Sunday, October 12.

                                           MercyMe's Bart Millard hosting the 45th Annual GMA Dove Awards with Lecrae 
                                                        (Photo Credit: Rick Diamond and Terry Wyatt of Getty Images)

In addition to MercyMe taking home a win for Short Form Video of the Year with "Shake," Millard shared his excitement about hosting the awards: "The entire night was really pretty awesome! I didn't see the 2 million download thing coming at all. It was pretty surreal to be onstage with Lecrae as well - just unbelievable really, and overall a great night - I had a blast!"

This past April, Welcome to the New, which has been called the band’s “best effort to date,” nabbed the highest debut of the week landing at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and No. 1 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart. The album peaked at No. 3 on the iTunes® Overall Albums Chart and No. 1 on its Christian Albums Chart.

About MercyMe:
Since their debut in 2001, GRAMMY®-nominated, American Music Award and multiple Dove Award winners MercyMe have sold more than 6.5 million units in CD and DVD sales, garnered 26 No. 1 multi-format Christian radio singles and four consecutive mainstream radio hits with “I Can Only Imagine,” (No. 4 AC/Top 25 on Top 40/Hot AC), “Here With Me” (No. 4 AC), “Homesick” (Top 10 AC), and “So Long Self.” In 2009, Billboard named MercyMe's "Word Of God Speak" the No. 1 Song of The Decade and the group the No. 1 Christian Songs Artist of the Decade, with an additional No. 1 as the Christian AC Song Artist of The Decade as one of the industry's most notable talents. MercyMe made history as “I Can Only Imagine” surpassed 1 million digital downloads, making it the first song in Christian music to go platinum in the digital domain, and has now reached 2 million downloads. MercyMe has sold out venues across the nation, including Radio City Music Hall, and has appeared on The Today Show, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, CNN, Fox New Channel's Fox & Friends, ABC News, CBS This Morning and in the pages of Entertainment Weekly, The New York Times, USA Today, Billboard and more. Their eighth studio album, Welcome To The New, is available now.
 

[Get Connected With MercyMe]
Website // www.mercyme.org
Facebook // www.facebook.com/mercyme
Twitter // www.twitter.com/mercyme
iTunes// http://smarturl.it/MMNewiTunes
Amazon// http://smarturl.it/MMNewAmazon

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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

Skillet Sweeps Rock Categories at 45th Annual GMA Dove Awards

RISE awarded Rock Album of the Year and “Not Gonna Die” honored as Rock Song of the Year

Skillet launches first headline European fall tour October 12 in Glasgow, UK

Nashville, Tenn. (October 8, 2014) — Skillet continues to prove themselves as a leading force in the diverse world of rock music as they were awarded Rock Album of the Year for RISE and Rock Song of the Year for "Not Gonna Die" at the 45th Annual GMA Dove Awards last night at Lipscomb University in Nashville. 

The honors reflect the success of RISE, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Rock and Christian charts and No. 4 on the Billboard 200. "Not Gonna Die" was one of several No. 1 radio hits to come from the album.

"Have to say it was pretty cool hearing the news about these wins," remarked lead singer John Cooper. "We couldn't be there since we're heading to Europe again this week, but to have this album recognized in this way is definitely an honor, and we're really thankful."

On October 12, Skillet will head to Glasgow, UK to kick off their first headlining European tour. As the band's third visit to Europe in a year, they will make 20+ stops in cities including London, Zurich, Stockholm, Warsaw, as well as multiple dates in Russia, where the band's popularity is growing exponentially. See full routing information below.  

The fall tour follows the band's jaunt with the Rockstar Energy UPROAR Festival, for which Skillet joined multi-platinum artists Godsmack, Seether, Buckcherry and Pop Evil at stops throughout the country. Earlier this summer, Skillet performed at multiple festivals throughout Europe, playing for thousands of fans. The summer and fall tours have seen the band gain a solid European following, all subsequent to last fall’s tour supporting Nickelback.

Skillet Fall European Tour (*all dates subject to change, visit Skillet.com for updated info)
October 12 – The Garage, Glasgow, UK
October 13 – Wulfrun Hall, Wolverhampton, England
October 14 – Islington Academy, London, UK
October 15 – Waterfront, Norwich, UK
October 17 – Trix Hall, Antwerp, Belgium
October 18 – O13, Tilburg, Netherlands
October 20 – Komplex Klub, Zurich, Switzerland
October 21 – Essigfabrik, Cologne, Germany
October 24 – Gruenspan, Hamburg, Germany
October 25 – Bygningen, Vejile, Denmark
October 26 – Debaser Strand, Stockholm, Sweden
October 28 – Stodola, Warsaw, Poland
October 29 – Loftas Concert Hall, Vilnius, Lithuania
October 30 – Melna Concert Hall, Riga, Latvia
November 1 – Rock Café, Tallinn, Estonia
November 3 – Stadium Live, Moscow, Russia
November 4 – Stadium Live, Moscow, Russia
November 5 – Capitoliy, N. Novgorod, Russia
November 7 – Emeritage Concert Hall, Kazan, Russia
November 8 – MTL Arena, Samara, Russia
November 10 – Expo, Novosibirsk, Russia
November 12 – Sport Palace, Ekaterinburg, Russia
November 14 – A2, St. Petersburg, Russia

About Skillet
Over the course of the past few years, GRAMMY®-nominated and platinum selling rock band Skillet has sold more than two million units in the U.S., racked up more than 160 million YouTube views and amassed a diehard following (dubbed Panheads) whose members number more than five million on Facebook alone. Their 2013 release RISE debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and No. 1 on the Billboard Rock and Christian charts, which led to No. 1 radio hits for "American Noise,” “Not Gonna Die” "Rise" and "Sick Of It." RISE also gave Skillet their late night television debut on Conan. RISE follows the band's 2009 blockbuster, Awake, which was certified platinum for sales in excess of one million copies in the U.S. and debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. In addition, the record hit No. 1 on the iTunes Top Albums Chart, garnered three Billboard Music Awards and spawned four hit singles including the No. 1 Active Rock smash and gold-certified “Awake & Alive,” the gold-certified "Hero," "It's Not Me It's You" and the platinum-certified "Monster." "Monster" lived up to its name, selling more than a million copies and hitting Top 5 at Active Rock radio (the first in a string of multiple Top 5 active rock hits,) while its companion video has generated more than 69 million YouTube views. Skillet was the only active rock band to achieve RIAA Platinum Certification in 2012 and was one of only three rock bands (the other two being Mumford & Sons and The Black Keys) to strike platinum in 2012. Skillet is made up of John Cooper, Korey Cooper, Jen Ledger and Seth Morrison.

[Get Connected with Skillet] 
Website // http://www.skillet.com 
Twitter // http://twitter.com/skilletmusic 
Facebook // http://www.facebook.com/skillet
YouTube // http://www.youtube.com/skilletband

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

Mandisa Brings “High Energy and Inspiration” on Remix Project, Get Up: The Remixes, Available Now

Mandisa to perform on Dove Awards Oct. 7; receives five nominations 

Mandisa on the road with Casting Crowns for Thrive Tour

Nashville, Tenn. (October 1, 2014) – GRAMMY® winner Mandisa brings a whole new element of “high energy and inspiration” on her first full-length remix album, Get Up: The Remixes, available now. Featuring 11 remixes of her biggest hits - including "Overcomer," "Stronger" and "Good Morning," all three of which Mandisa has performed on ABC's Good Morning America – Get Up: The Remixes follows the success of her best-selling and critically acclaimed album Overcomer. 

Breathecast.com praised Get Up: The Remixes for providing the listener with “non-stop, feel good dance music” while Hollywood Jesus was quick to call out “Good Morning (feat. TobyMac)” for it’s “sweeping background and club-ready groove.” Soul-Audio.com called the album a “musical B12 shot of energy, featuring soulful vocals alongside playful yet creative new arrangements that give the music renewed life.” 

Check out the lyrics videos for Get Up: The Remixes:
What If We Were Real (Neva Remix/Lyric Video): http://youtu.be/GKgR0QfKvKU
Overcomer (Capital Kings Remix/Lyric Video): http://youtu.be/zvRkBtnEdr4 
Stronger (Movin' Remix/Lyric Video): http://youtu.be/6n39IskpG-4
Good Morning (Capital Kings Remix/Lyric Video): http://youtu.be/DeqfLqPz44c
Joy Unspeakable (Atellagali Remix/Lyric Video): http://youtu.be/KXqaoZ9N0Lw

In less than two weeks, Mandisa will perform at the 45th Annual GMA Dove Awards, where she is nominated for Artist of the Year, Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year for Overcomer, Song of the Year, Contemporary Christian Performance of the Year and Short Form Video of the Year for "Overcomer.” The show will be held at Lipsomb University's Allen Arena October 7 and will air globally on the Trinity Broadcasting Network.

Mandisa is currently on the “Thrive Tour” with Casting Crowns and Sidewalk Prophets. To see if Mandisa is coming to a city near you, visit mandisaofficial.com/home/tour. 

About Mandisa:
With more than 1 million records sold, GRAMMY® winner and and American Idol Season 5 finalist Mandisa is a voice of encouragement and truth to people facing life’s challenges all around the world. In less than a year, Mandisa performed her three hit singles "Overcomer," "Good Morning," and "Stronger" on the highest rated morning show, ABC’s Good Morning America (GMA.) Her performance of “Stronger” welcomed the emotional return of beloved morning host Robin Roberts. The NFL also welcomed Mandisa to perform the national anthem during a Sunday night NFL Network game to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness month where she was joined by members of the 49ers family who are survivors. Her album, Overcomer, released in 2013 and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Christian Albums Chart, with the album's title track holding on to the No. 1 spot for twelve weeks on the National Christian Audience chart as well as the No. 1 position on the Christian/Gospel Core Digital sales chart for several weeks. This year, Mandisa was awarded a GRAMMY® for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album for her best-selling and critically acclaimed project Overcomer. Additionally, “Overcomer’s” songwriters (David Garcia, Ben Glover & Christopher Stevens) won the GRAMMY® for Best Contemporary Christian Music Song. Her first full-length remix album, Get Up: The Remixes, is available now. 

[Get Connected with Mandisa] 
Website // www.mandisaofficial.com 
Twitter // www.twitter.com/mandisaofficial 
Facebook // www.facebook.com/mandisaofficial 
YouTube // www.youtube.com/user/MandisaOfficial 
Spotify // http://open.spotify.com/artist/0YPElKYjOD1sofFCtLdYj3

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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

Passion: The Essential Collection to Encapsulate the Best of The Passion Movement on November 11

Album will feature 15 songs, seven music videos and four talks from Passion

“Passion: Take It All Tour” currently on the road

Nashville, Tenn. (September 23, 2014) – sixstepsrecords and Capitol Christian Music Group will bring together the very best of the Passion Conferences this November with Passion: The Essential Collection. Available on November 11, the CD + DVD box set will feature 15 songs and seven music videos from Passion, including Chris Tomlin, Kristian Stanfill, Matt Redman, David Crowder*Band, Christy Nockels and Charlie Hall. It will also feature four talks from founder Louie Giglio, bringing together the best representation of the multi-decade impact the Passion Conferences have had on a generation of 18-25 year olds across the country and internationally.

Having sold over 1.5 million units, The Passion Movement has marked the lives of millions around the globe. Passion: The Essential Collection will feature “Our God,” “Lord I Need You,” “How Great Is Our God,” “God of This City” and others that were originally introduced to the church by Passion. For a full track listing, see below.

Kristian Stanfill and Passion are currently on the road for the 26-city “Passion: Take It All Tour.” The tour is making stops around the country, paving the way for January’s Passion 2015 Conferences in Atlanta (Jan 2-4; 16-18) and Houston (Jan 30-Feb 1).

For more information on Passion, visit 268generation.com.
 

Passion: The Essential Collection
CD
1. Holy Is The Lord (Chris Tomlin)
2. One Thing Remains (Kristian Stanfill)
3. 10,000 Reasons [Bless The Lord] (Matt Redman)
4. Our God (Chris Tomlin)
5. How He Loves (David Crowder*Band)
6. Healing Is In Your Hands (Christy Nockels)
7. Whom Shall I Fear [God Of Angel Armies] (Chris Tomlin)
8. You Never Let Go (Matt Redman)
9. Amazing Grace [My Chains Are Gone] (Chris Tomlin)
10. Better Is One Day (Charlie Hall)
11. In Christ Alone (Kristian Stanfill)
12. God Of This City (Chris Tomlin)
13. Like A Lion (David Crowder*Band)
14. Waiting Here For You (Christy Nockels)
15. How Great Is Our God (Chris Tomlin)

DVD
Videos
1. The Lord Our God (Kristian Stanfill)
2. Let It Be Jesus (Christy Nockels)
3. Mercy [From Lift] (Matt Redman)
4. White Flag (Chris Tomlin)
5. Here’s My Heart (Crowder)
6. My Heart Is Yours (Kristian Stanfill)
7. God’s Great Dance Floor (Chris Tomlin)

Talks
1. Let’s Work It Out (From Passion: 2010)
2. We Will Carry The Name (From Passion: 2011)
3. Raise To Life By The Breath Of A Living God (From Passion: 2013)
4. Crushed By Grace (From Passion: 2014)
 

About Passion Conferences:
Led by a stirring in the heart of Atlanta-based pastor, Louie Giglio, Passion was birthed in 1997 to see the 20+ million college students across the globe awaken to the reality of an omnipotent and glorious Creator. Since then, millions of students from across the globe have joined the Passion movement, united across ministry and denominational lines, to seek the face of God in worship and prayer at nine conferences, four world tours and multiple one-day and regional events. Passion’s core scripture, Isaiah 26:8 states: “Yes, LORD, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts.” The small Passion Team is led by Louie Giglio and operates under the direction of a Board that is committed to spreading the fame of Jesus Christ to college students around the globe.

About sixstepsrecords:
Founded in 2000 by Louie Giglio, sixstepsrecords is a worship label and a division of Passion Conferences. sixstepsrecords’ artists include Chris Tomlin (Love Ran Red), Crowder (Neon Steeple), Matt Redman (Your Grace Finds Me), Christy Nockels (Into the Glorious), Kristian Stanfill (Mountains Move), and Passion (Passion: Take It All). The label partners with Sparrow Records/Capitol Christian Music Group for A&R, marketing, sales and distribution operations. For more information on sixstepsrecords, visit: www.sixstepsrecords.com.

[Get Connected with Passion]
Website // www.268generation.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/Passion268generation
Twitter // www.twitter.com/passion268

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Media Contact:
Ryan Anderson
the media collective
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

GRAMMY® Winner Laura Story Welcomes Twin Boys

Nashville, Tenn. (September 19, 2014) – GRAMMY® award winning songstress Laura Story and her husband Martin have welcomed fraternal twin boys to their family. Benjamin Cary and Griffin James were born within three minutes of each other, weighing 6.5 lbs and 6.3 lbs respectively. The twins join their 2-year-old big sister Josie.

"Martin and I are so thrilled to finally meet these little guys! God has truly blessed our family,” said a tired but joyful Story.

Laura will take her new growing family out on the road this December for a short Christmas tour in select states (MD, ME, NY, OH and NJ). Her new Christmas record God With Us will be available for these shows and will be released to retail Christmas 2015.

While her schedule will be quite busy with the new additions, Story is also currently working on her first book scheduled to release next fall. The W Publishing book "When God Doesn't Fix It: Lessons You Never Wanted to Learn; Truths You Can't Live Without" will explore Story’s journey from her life expectations through shattered dreams and on to the incredible truths that she uncovered in her study of God's Word. It will offer readers a friend who understands, important biblical insights and hope that God has not forgotten them.  

About Laura Story:
GRAMMY® award winning artist, speaker, songwriter, author and worship leader Laura Story has a gift for penning songs that connect with people all around the world. Among her successes as a solo artist with her smash hits “Mighty To Save” and “Blessings,” Laura has also penned hit songs for other renowned artists including Chris Tomlin’s “Indescribable.” Her solo artist music debut in 2008 with Great God Who Saves led to four Dove nominations and the award for “Inspirational Album of the Year.” In 2011, Laura released her sophomore project Blessings. The album and the emotionally powerful title was inspired by her real life trials and adversities, primarily her husband Martin's diagnosis of a brain tumor. The album resonated with a huge audience and led to whirlwind career highlights for Laura, peaking at the No. 1 album spot for three consecutive weeks on Billboard’s Contemporary Christian Overall chart, topping the iTunes® Christian/Gospel Top Songs chart and holding the No. 1 spot for an impressive 28 consecutive weeks on the Christian charts. The success of the single “Blessings,” which was certified RIAA Gold, includes the GRAMMY® Award for Best Contemporary Christian Song, the Billboard Music Award for Top Christian Song and the Dove Awards for Song of the Year, Pop/Contemporary Song of the Year, Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year and Songwriter of the Year. The song inspired Laura's first book, “What If Your Blessings Come Through Raindrops?” in 2012. Her latest project - God Of Every Story - released last year to much acclaim. Laura is the worship leader at Perimeter Church outside of Atlanta, GA and lives with her husband Martin and three children.

For more information on Laura Story, and to see all of the new photos and videos of her twins, visit her at the links below.

Get Connected with Laura Story:
Website // www.laurastorymusic.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/laurastory
Twitter // www.twitter.com/LauraStoryMusic
Instagram // www.instagram.com/laurastorymusic

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Media Contact:
Ryan Anderson
the media collective
ryan@themcollective.com
(615) 591-7989 
www.themcollective.com

Five-Time GRAMMY® Award-Winner TobyMac Set To Release Remix Album, EYE'M ALL MIXED UP, November 4

TobyMac nominated for 45th Annual GMA Dove Awards

Nashville, Tenn. (September 18, 2014) — Five-time GRAMMY® Award-winner TobyMac's most recent album EYE ON IT, soared to the top of the charts and earned a GRAMMY® Award, and now those songs are getting revamped on his upcoming remix album, EYE'M ALL MIXED UP, set to release November 4.

EYE ON IT earned a GRAMMY® Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album and topped the iTunes Overall and Christian sales charts. It also marked the highest chart debut of his solo career, landing at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, making TobyMac one of only four artists to ever debut atop the Billboard 200 with a Christian music album.

EYE'M ALL MIXED UP features 11 tracks from EYE ON IT, including hits "Me Without You," "Speak Life" and "Steal My Show" mixed by remixers such as Capital Kings and Soul Glow Activatur of Family Force 5. 

Shortly after the album's debut, TobyMac will head out on the "Worship, Stories & Songs Tour" beginning November 6, featuring Matt Maher and Ryan Stevenson. This 20-city tour will make stops at intimate venues across the country, focusing on the stories behind the songs with stripped down performances.  

Additionally, TobyMac received a nomination for Short Form Video of the Year for "Speak Life" for the 45th Annual GMA Dove Awards. The award show will take place at Lipscomb University in Nashville October 7.

EYE'M ALL MIXED UP Tracklist
1. EYE ON IT (Phenomenon Remix by Soul Glow Activatur)
2. FORGIVENESS (Feat. Lecrae) (Neon Feather Remix)
3. SPEAK LIFE (Telemitry Remix)
4. ME WITHOUT YOU (Capital Kings Remix)
5. STEAL MY SHOW (Jack Shocklee Remix)
6. UnSTOPPABLE (Feat. Blanca) (Phenomenon Remix by Soul Glow Activatur)
7. LOSE MYSELF (Capital Kings Remix)
8. EYE ON IT (Kaveman Remix)
9. THANKFUL FOR YOU (Thunderbird Remix)
10. MAC DADDY (Tru’s Reality) (Telemitry Remix)
11. ME WITHOUT YOU (Telemitry Remix)

“Worship, Stories & Songs Tour” Dates
More to be added, tour dates subject to change
http://tobymac.com/tour

November 6 – Madison, MS
November 7 – Texarkana, TX
November 8 – Wichita Falls, TX
November 9 – Lewisville, TX
November 13 – New Albany, IN
November 14 – Lexington, KY
November 15 – Akron, OH
November 16 – Troy, OH
November 20 - Joplin, MO
November 21 – Lincoln, NE
November 22 – Bourbonnais, IL
November 23 – Grand Rapids, MI
December 4 – Toledo, OH
December 5 – York, PA
December 6 – Williamsport, MD
December 7 – Richmond, VA
December 11 - Normal, IL
December 12 - Appleton, WI
December 13 – Milwaukee, WI
December 14 – Ft. Wayne, IN

About TobyMac:
With more than 11 million units in career sales, TobyMac's career continues on the fast track. His most recent project, EYE ON IT, garnered him the GRAMMY® Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album and the highest chart debut of his solo career landing at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and topping the iTunes® Overall and Christian sales charts. The project made TobyMac one of only four artists to ever debut atop the Billboard 200 with a Christian music album. His previous four solo projects have received RIAA Gold Certifications and his live DVD, Alive & Transported, is RIAA Certified platinum and received a GRAMMY® award. In less than 15 months between 2012-2013, TobyMac received two GRAMMY® awards, two Billboard Music Awards for Top Christian Artist and Top Christian Album, his first American Music Award for Favorite Artist in the Contemporary/Inspirational category, Dove Awards for "Artist of the Year," "Pop/Contemporary Album of the Year," "Recorded Music Packaging of the Year," "Short Form Video of the Year," a K-LOVE Music Award for “Artist of the Year” and swept the 2013 Australian Music Award. At the 2014 K-LOVE Fan Awards, he won the award for "Best Live Show." His album EYE'M ALL MIXED UP is set to release November 4.

[Get Connected with TobyMac]
Website // http://www.tobymac.com
Twitter // https://twitter.com/officialtobymac
Facebook // http://www.facebook.com/tobymac
YouTube // http://www.youtube.com/tobymacmusic

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WOW Hits 2015 Deluxe Edition Includes 36 Christian Artists & Hit Songs

Available for digital pre-order now; in stores September 30

(Nashville, Tenn.) September 18, 2014 – Capitol Christian Music Group, Provident Music Group, and Word Entertainment announce the September 30th release of WOW Hits 2015 Deluxe Edition. To increase the excitement of the annual release, WOW Hits 2015 Deluxe Edition is available now to pre-order at all major digital download stores. With 12 No. 1s plus 18 top 5 radio songs, WOW Hits 2015 Deluxe Edition marks the 20th two-disc release of the platinum-selling series that compiles the best songs from Christian radio at an incredible value for the consumer. The entire WOW branded series (Hits, Worship, Gospel, and specialty releases) tops 30 MILLION units in sales.

With songs about sharing God’s love, giving praise, and placing your trust in God, WOW Hits 2015 Deluxe Edition is 2 CDs filled with 36 uplifting hit songs from today’s top Christian artists; including Big Daddy Weave’s “The Only Name (Yours Will Be),” Casting Crowns’“Thrive,” for KING & COUNTRY’s “Fix My Eyes,” Matt Maher’s “All The People Said Amen,” TobyMac’s “Speak Life,” and United’s “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail).” 

WOW Hits 2015 Deluxe Edition has 6 more hit songs than the standard edition. Both versions of WOW Hits 2015 also feature 3 bonus tracks from up and coming radio artists, making the deluxe edition a jam-packed collection of 39 songs!

Since announcing the track listing on Facebook last month, fans have been eagerly anticipating the release of WOW Hits 2015 Deluxe Edition.

Marketing efforts include prime retail positioning throughout the holiday season at all Christian, mainstream and digital retail outlets, radio promotions, and a strong online presence with ad buys at Christian music sites, Facebook, YouTube, and Google. WOW Hits 2015 will be a major traffic driver for retail during the crucial Christmas shopping season. 

WOW Hits 2015 Deluxe Edition debuted Tuesday in WOW’s app on Spotify. Currently in the top 20 out of Spotify’s 100 apps, the WOW app is the only destination for the best in Christian music playlists.

WOW Hits 2015 Track Listing

DISC ONE

1. We Believe Newsboys
2. The Only Name (Yours Will Be) Big Daddy Weave
3. Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) [Album Edit] United
4. Thrive Casting Crowns
5. Do Something (Radio Version) Matthew West
6. Back To You Mandisa
7. Keep Making Me Sidewalk Prophets
8. I Am Crowder
9. Waterfall Chris Tomlin
10. All The People Said Amen Matt Maher
11. Shake MercyMe
12. You Won’t Let Go Michael W. Smith
13. My Heart Is Yours (Radio Version) Passion (feat. Kristian Stanfill)
14. Glorious Unfolding (Radio Edit) Steven Curtis Chapman
15. Forever (Radio Version) Kari Jobe

BONUS

16.  I Will Follow Jon Guerra
17.  Beautiful Dan Bremnes

ONLY ON THE DELUXE EDITION

18.  Lay It Down Sanctus Real
19.  Mercy (Radio Version) Matt Redman
20.  Lift My Life Up Unspoken

DISC TWO

1. This Is Amazing Grace Phil Wickham
2. Fix My Eyes for KING & COUNTRY
3. Speak Life TobyMac
4. Beautiful Day Jamie Grace
5. Multiplied NEEDTOBREATHE
6. More Of You Colton Dixon
7. Write Your Story Francesca Battistelli
8. No Man Is An Island Tenth Avenue North
9. Press On Building 429 (feat. Blanca Callahan)
10. Come Alive Jeremy Camp
11. Alive (Radio Version) Young & Free
12. Love Alone Is Worth The Fight Switchfoot
13. Don’t Deserve You Plumb
14. Your Love Is Like A River Third Day
15. He Is With Us Love & The Outcome

BONUS

16.  Satisfied About A Mile

ONLY ON THE DELUXE EDITION

17.  Words Hawk Nelson (feat. Bart Millard)
18.  American Noise Skillet
19.  Ready Set Go Royal Tailor (feat. Capital Kings)

About WOW:
Established in 1995 with collaboration between Capitol Christian Music Group, Provident Music Group, and Word Entertainment, the three largest Christian music and entertainment companies; WOW releases multiple compilation albums each year, including WOW Hits, WOW Gospel, WOW Worship, and WOW Christmas.  The marketing and distribution of WOW is shared among the three companies.  The entire WOW branded series (Hits, Worship, Gospel, Christmas, and specialty releases) tops 30 MILLION units in sales. Visit WOWilovechristianmusic.com for a full product line up.

WOW Hits 2015 is marketed and distributed by Capitol Christian Music Group.

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GRAMMY® Winner Chris Tomlin to Unveil Love Ran Red October 27

Follow up to history-making, Billboard No. 1 album 
Burning Lights Features Hit Track “Waterfall” and 
New Single “Jesus Loves Me”

Tomlin honored with RIAA Platinum and Gold Single Certifications at Exclusive Album Premiere and Performance

 
Nashville, Tenn. (September 16, 2014) — Kicking off 2013 with a No. 1 album made history for GRAMMY® winner Chris Tomlin as only the fourth Christian album to ever do so. Following the project’s success, sold-out tour dates, Billboard Music Awards, being named a BMI Songwriter of the Year and receiving the K-LOVE Fan Award for Male Vocalist of the Year, Tomlin will unveil his tenth studio recording, Love Ran Red on October 27. 

Accumulating more than 13 million album and digital sales and having his songs sung by over 40 million people in churches each week has propelled Tomlin into a category all his own but also one that continues to humble him and increase his desire to make music for the church.    The first single from Love Ran Red, “Waterfall,” does just that and has already seen top ten radio success.  The follow-up single is impacting radio this week, and while its title, “Jesus Loves Me,” may make you think of another well-known song, it’s a brand new, original track.

Produced by longtime friend and collaborator Ed Cash, Love Ran Red features songs penned by Tomlin, Cash, Matt Redman, Jonah Myrin, Ben Glover,  Jason Ingram and Ben Fielding.  A special Deluxe Edition will feature the full-length studio album along with four additional tracks.

Tomlin premiered the album to a VIP crowd in Nashville this past Friday with live performances of several songs.  sixstepsrecords' Chief Strategist  Shelley Giglio and Capitol Christian Music Group President Peter York surprised Tomlin with plaques certifying the RIAA Platinum certification of his songs "How Great Is Our God" and "Our God," as well as the RIAA Gold Certification of "Indescribable," "Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone)," "I Will Follow," "I Will Rise," and "Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies)."   

L to R:  Bill Hearn, Capitol Christian Music Group President & CEO; Chris Tomlin; Shelley Giglio, Chief Strategist, sixstepsrecords;  Peter York, President, Capitol Christian Music Group

Tomlin will support Love Ran Red with a promotional tour this fall, all leading up to January's Passion 2015 Conferences in Atlanta (Jan 2-4; 16-18) and Houston (Jan 30-Feb 1). Spring tour dates will also be announced soon.  

Love Ran Red Track Listing: 
1. Greater 
2. Waterfall
3. At The Cross
4. Jesus Loves Me
5. Boundary Lines
6. Almighty
7. The Roar
8. Fear Not
9. The Table
10. Psalm 100
11. I Will Boast
12. Jesus This Is You

About Chris Tomlin
With nine albums, 12 No. 1 radio singles, a GRAMMY® Award and eight additional nominations, three Billboard Music Awards, 21 Dove Awards, a platinum and four gold albums to his credit, Chris Tomlin is among the most well-known and influential artists in contemporary Christian music. Referred to by Time magazine as “most likely the most often sung artist anywhere,” Tomlin also has 15 of the Top 100 CCLI songs, with 4 of them being in the top 10. BMI’s 2014 Songwriter of the Year, Tomlin’s “How Great Is Our God” was his first No. 1 on the CCLI Top 25, moving to No. 1 after becoming one of the fasting rising modern day hymns in CCLI chart history. In addition to having sold more than 5.3 million albums and over 8 million digital tracks, Tomlin made history as his single “Jesus Messiah” (Hello Love) garnered 97 adds at radio its first week and skyrocketed to No. 1, making it the biggest ever add date in Christian radio history. In the midst of his record breaking success, and continuing his role as worship leader at Passion City Church in Atlanta, GA, Tomlin continues touring and leading at Passion Conference gatherings across the US and worldwide. Burning Lights, debuted at No. 1 atop the Billboard 200 in January 2013, making history as only the fourth Christian music album to do so, and Love Ran Red will release in October 2014.

[Get Connected with Chris Tomlin] 
Web site // http://www.christomlin.com 
Facebook // http://www.facebook.com/christomlin 
Twitter //https://twitter.com/christomlin 

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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 

Q Management Signs 19 Recording’s Artist and American Idol Finalist Colton Dixon

Dixon’s Sophomore Effort, ANCHOR, Debuted Last Week    

Nashville, Tenn. (August 26, 2014) — Q Management Group has announced the signing of 19 Recordings' Dove Award-winning artist and Season 11 American Idol finalist, Colton Dixon. Based just outside Nashville in Franklin, Tenn., Q Management Group, headed by Owner and President Zachary Kelm, also represents the Grammy® nominated and platinum selling band Skillet as well as burgeoning rockers WE AS HUMAN. 

"We are incredibly excited to be working with Colton," remarked Kelm. "He has great talent, passion, drive and integrity. We are looking forward to getting this new music from Anchor out there in every facet possible and building a partnership that propels his already burgeoning career."

Just last week, Dixon released his highly anticipated sophomore album, Anchor, which quickly climbed the iTunes overall albums chart to No. 4 and remained in the Top 10 throughout the week, while holding strong to No.1 on the Christian & Gospel albums chart. 

Anchor follows Dixon’s 2013 debut, A Messenger, which set the record for biggest first-week sales by a new solo Christian act, becoming the No. 1 selling album of 2013 by a new Christian artist and the No. 9 best selling album of 2013 in the Christian genre overall. Dixon played to more than 300,000 people last year and his current tour schedule through 2014 will place him in front of more than 800,000.

After his appearance on American Idol (Season 11), Dixon had national media exposure and received three Dove Award nominations, winning one for Best Contemporary Rock Album. He was also named a finalist in the recent Ryan Seacrest online Fan-Favorite American Idol Contestant from past seasons - placing 3rd overall. Colton Dixon has also been named the latest Steinway artist, following in the footsteps of folks like Harry Connick, Jr., Diana Krall and Billy Joel. Additionally, Dixon will have an exclusive ice cream flavor named after him. Boston-based boutique ice cream maker Emack & Bolio’s will debut Dixon’s unique flavor later this month. For more information about Colton Dixon and updated tour dates visitcoltondixon.com. 

ABOUT Q MANAGEMENT GROUP'S ROSTER:
Over the course of the past few years, Atlantic Record’s GRAMMY®-nominated and platinum-selling rock band Skillet has sold more than two million units in the U.S., racked up more than 160 million YouTube views and amassed a diehard following (dubbed Panheads) whose members number more than five million on Facebook alone. Their 2013 release RISE debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and No. 1 on the Billboard Rock and Christian charts, which led to No. 1 radio hits for "American Noise,” “Not Gonna Die” and "Sick Of It." RISE also gave Skillet their late night television debut on Conan. RISE follows the band's 2009 blockbuster, Awake, which was certified platinum for sales in excess of one million copies in the U.S. and debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. In addition, the record hit No. 1 on the iTunes Top Albums Chart, garnered three Billboard Music Awards and spawned four hit singles including the No. 1 Active Rock smash and gold-certified “Awake & Alive,” the gold-certified "Hero," "It's Not Me It's You" and the platinum-certified "Monster." "Monster" lived up to its name, selling more than a million copies and hitting Top 5 at Active Rock radio (the first in a string of multiple Top 5 active rock hits,) while its companion video has generated more than 69 million YouTube views. Skillet was the only active rock band to achieve RIAA Platinum Certification in 2012 and was one of only three rock bands (the other two being Mumford & Sons and The Black Keys) to strike platinum in 2012. 

Skillet recently announced their fall European tour, the band’s third visit to Europe in a year. After joining multi-platinum artists Godsmack and Seether along with Buckcherry and Pop Evil for the fifth Rockstar Energy UPROAR Festival in the U.S., Skillet will head to Europe for 20+ tour dates including London, Zurich, Stockholm, Warsaw, as well as multiple dates in Russia, where the band’s popularly is growing exponentially. See full routing information below. 

The fall jaunt follows a summer European run, which saw Skillet rocking multiple festivals throughout the continent, performing for thousands of fans. The summer and fall tours have seen the band gain a solid European following, all subsequent to last fall’s tour supporting Nickelback.

Critics and fans alike were blown away by Atlantic Records/Hear It Loud/Word Records WE AS HUMAN’s explosive entry into rock music last year with the release of their debut, eponymously titled album WE AS HUMAN. Earlier this summer, the band celebrated their first No. 1 single with their hit “Take The Bullets Away (feat. Lacey Sturm)” hitting the top spot at Christian Rock radio. The song is currently racing up the mainstream charts, sitting at No. 11 and about to break the Top 10 on the Mainstream Active Rock Chart. 

The band has toured relentlessly since the release of their debut album, hitting the road alongside the likes of Shinedown, Black Stone Cherry, TobyMac, Lecrae, Skillet, Filter, RED and Family Force 5. WE AS HUMAN continue to establish themselves as one of the dominant new forces in the rock music scene with their dual nominations for the 45th Annual GMA Dove Awards. For more information on upcoming tour plans, visit www.weashuman.com.

http://www.qmanagementgroup.com

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm 
the media collective
velvet@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.themcollective.com 

Things Just Get “Greater” for MercyMe

Single No. 1 on iTunes and SoundScan charts 

“I Can Only Imagine” approaching 
RIAA Certified Double Platinum
 

Nashville, Tenn. (September 4, 2014) — For GRAMMY® nominees and American Music Award winners MercyMe, things just keep getting “Greater,” the second single from the 6.5 million+ selling band’s latest project, Welcome to the New. Peaking at No. 1 on both iTunes Christian sales and SoundScan chart as well as hitting the Top 5 on Christian radio, “Greater” has also garnered 100% of the Billboard Christian AC radio panel spinning the song.  

To hear more about the track directly from MercyMe, click here, and to watch its lyric video, click here.

Additionally, MercyMe’s multi-format smash, “I Can Only Imagine,” is closely approaching a Double Platinum Certification by the RIAA. The popular song made history as the first single in the Christian genre to receive RIAA Platinum Certification.   

This past April, Welcome to the New, which has been called the band’s “best effort to date” and “a party from top to bottom,” nabbed the highest debut of the week landing at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and No. 1 on the Billboard Christian Albums chart. The album peaked at No. 3 on the iTunes® Overall Albums Chart and No. 1 on its Christian Albums Chart.

MercyMe has been playing festivals and ball park faith nights throughout the summer and will hit select U.S. cities this fall, continuing to support Welcome to the New with an eclectic and entertaining live show that has received raves reviews across the country.

About MercyMe:
Since their debut in 2001, GRAMMY®-nominated, American Music Award and multiple Dove Award winners MercyMe have sold more than 6.5 million units in CD and DVD sales, garnered 26 No. 1 multi-format Christian radio singles and four consecutive mainstream radio hits with “I Can Only Imagine,” (No. 4 AC/Top 25 on Top 40/Hot AC), “Here With Me” (No. 4 AC), “Homesick” (Top 10 AC), and “So Long Self.” In 2009, Billboard named MercyMe's "Word Of God Speak" the No. 1 Song of The Decade and the group the No. 1 Christian Songs Artist of the Decade, with an additional No. 1 as the Christian AC Song Artist of The Decade as one of the industry's most notable talents. MercyMe made history as “I Can Only Imagine” surpassed 2 million digital downloads, making it the first song in Christian music to go platinum in the digital domain. MercyMe has sold out venues across the nation, including Radio City Music Hall, and has appeared on The Tonight Show, CNN, Fox New Channel's Fox & Friends, ABC News, CBS This Morning and in the pages of Entertainment Weekly, The New York Times, USA Today, Billboard and more. Their eighth studio album, Welcome To The New, is available now.

[Get Connected With MercyMe]
Website // www.mercyme.org
Facebook // www.facebook.com/mercyme
Twitter // www.twitter.com/mercyme
iTunes// http://smarturl.it/MMNewiTunes
Amazon// http://smarturl.it/MMNewAmazon

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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

Amy Grant’s “Fizzy Delight” In Motion: The Remixes Catapults the GRAMMY® Winner to the Top 5 of Billboard’s Electronic Albums Chart, No. 1 on Amazon’s Best Dance Pop List

“Baby, Baby” Remix Hits No. 4 on 

Billboard Hot Dance Club Play Chart
 

Nashville, Tenn. (August 27, 2014) – Six-time GRAMMY® winner Amy Grant’s “Fizzy Delight” (Atlanta Journal-Constitution) In Motion: The Remixes, has catapulted to the Top 5 of Billboard’s Electronic Albums Chart. Following the album’s release last week, it peaked at No. 1 on Amazon’s Best Dance Pop list and Top 10 on iTunes Pop Albums chart. Not stopping there, the Dave Audé remix of her No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 single from 1991, “Baby, Baby,” is back in a big way, currently at No. 4 this week on Billboard’s Hot Dance Club Play chart and climbing.   

Grant’s first remix album in her 30-plus year career is one that has been met with critical praise, saying it “…capitalizes on the sunny energy of the 1991 hit,” (The New York Times), that its “wicked beat can provide the juice to quench a raver's thirst," (ABC News) and calling it “an unexpected triumph” (Houston Chronicle).

As Grant celebrates the release of In Motion: The Remixes, this fall she will support the American Cancer Society as she teams up with Kellie Pickler for Athena® Bottled Water’s “Eat. Drink. Party Pink.” event to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness month in October and join the 72nd Annual Santa Train this November, bringing gifts to families in need in Kentucky, Virginia and Tennessee. 

Following Santa Train, Grant will once again hit the road spreading Christmas cheer with husband Vince Gill as they play multiple Christmas performances at the famous Ryman Auditorium in December, as well as co-bill with Michael W. Smith for shows with symphonies in Minneapolis, Dallas and Atlanta. Grant will also headline Christmas symphony dates in Toledo, St. Charles and Cincinatti. For more tour information, visit amygrant.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, ten Top 40 pop singles, seventeen 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. Her first studio album in more than a decade, How Mercy Looks From Here, released May 14, 2013 and debuted at No. 12 on the Billboard 200 Chart. Her first career remix album In Motion: The Remixes is available now.

[Get Connected with Amy Grant]
Website // www.amygrant.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/amygrant
Twitter // www.twitter.com/amygrant

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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