TobyMac's "HITS DEEP TOUR" Kicks Off This Weekend

2016 headlining tour comes days after
seventh career GRAMMY® win

Nashville, Tenn. (February 19, 2016) - This weekend marks the first stops of TobyMac's multi-artist, talent-packed "HITS DEEP TOUR," presented by K-LOVE/AIR 1 and Food for the Hungry. Leading the nationwide run alongside his DiverseCity Band, the multi-platinum selling artist will be joined by Britt Nicole, Colton Dixon, Building 429, Capital Kings, Finding Favour and Hollyn, promising a night of non-stop hit songs. Kicking off in Baton Rouge, La., the "HITS DEEP TOUR" will run through April 10, ending in Moline, Ill. For tickets and the most up to date tour information, click here.

TobyMac garnered his seventh career GRAMMY® Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album (THIS IS NOT A TEST) on Monday night. About the honor, TobyMac shares, "I have been on tour and missed both GRAMMY® ceremonies when I've won as a solo artist, so this felt like my first. It was very emotional...like joy and gratefulness collided. All I can say is I am honored to collaborate with some of the finest, from writing to recording to playing it live... I am blessed to roll with the best!"

Billboard caught up with TobyMac on the red carpet of the 58th Annual GRAMMY® Awards, moments before he won for THIS IS NOT A TEST, where he shared about his excitement for the headlining tour trek. 

About TobyMac:
With more than 11 million units in career sales and a whopping seven GRAMMY® Awards, TobyMac's career continues on the fast track. His most recent studio album, THIS IS NOT A TEST garnered a GRAMMY® Award and a high marking debut at No. 4 on the Billboard Top 200. Each one of his previous five studio solo projects have achieved Gold certification, a first for an artist in the history of his label, Capitol Christian Music Group. Among those honored with Gold certification, EYE ON IT, which debuted atop the Billboard 200, only the third ever Christian album to do so. His live DVD, ALIVE & TRANSPORTED, is RIAA Certified platinum and received a GRAMMY® award.

Get Connected With TobyMac
Website // www.tobymac.com

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

YouTube Spaces Livestream Planned For Hillsong Young & Free's Newest Album

Pre-Order for Youth Revival available now

Nashville, Tenn. (February 17, 2016) - Hillsong Young & Free will be streaming the premiere of their newest album Youth Revival (Feb. 26) from the popular YouTube Spaces in Los Angeles on Feb. 23. Listeners from around the globe will be able to tune in at 4 pm P.S.T. to hear the newest songs from the Australia-based band, three days before the global release of their new record. Fans can pre-order Youth Revival now (click here) and receive "Real Love" and "Where You Are" instantly.

The single from the upcoming record, "Where You Are," is currently in the Top 5 at Hot AC. The music video supporting the song landed an exclusive video premiere on the homepage of MTV.com, plus broadcast rotation on MTV, MTV Hits and mtvU. Upon its digital release, "Where You Are" shot to Spotify’s Top 15 on Viral 50 USA Chart.

The eclectic collection of songs found on Youth Revival articulate the deep desire of the human heart for something more. With their relevant EDM and pop sound, the project continues their own journey and experiences through their faith.

“Our hopes are that we will see something truly significant happen in our generation and that Young and Free makes a mark on the pages of history books," shares Hillsong Young & Free's Laura Toggs. "I look back at time periods and how they were marked by movements, and maybe we are a little audacious, but imagine if that’s what our generation was remembered for, for being ‘young and free.’ We truly are believing to see a 'youth revival' take place in 2016.”

About Hillsong Young & Free:
Hillsong Young & Free is a youth movement born out of Hillsong Church in Sydney, Australia. In this thirty year story, they have seen generations of people serving, leading and pioneering movements. Hillsong Young & free is comprised of a collective of young people who come together to make music for youth and young adults everywhere. Their first album We Are Young & Free (2013) debuted to the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Christian/Gospel Chart. Also scoring a No. 1 debut, their most recent EP, This Is Living (2015), garnered a top 10 iTunes overall spot and received support from MTV, MTVHits and mtvU. With millions of social followers engaging in the social conversation, Hillsong Young & Free has scored two No. 1 radio singles. Their anticipated release of Youth Revival is due out in February 2016. Hillsong Young & Free fill stadiums across the globe and continue to push their positive message in the musical context of EDM and pop influences.

About Hillsong Church:
In August 1983, Brian and Bobbie Houston founded the Hills Christian Life Centre in the Hills District of Sydney, Australia. It has grown from a congregation of 45 to what is said to be the largest local church in Australian history. It has now expanded to be a global church with local expressions in significant cities; with churches in Australia, London, New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Cape Town, Stockholm, Germany, Kiev, Amsterdam and Copenhagen. Each week, tens of thousands of people across the globe call Hillsong Church ‘home’ and the reach, impact and influence of this local congregation is seen across many nations.

Get Connected with Hillsong Young & Free:
Website // www.hillsongyoungandfree.com
Snapchat // hillsongyandf

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

TobyMac Honored With Seventh Career GRAMMY® Award

THIS IS NOT A TEST garners win for
Best Contemporary Christian Music Album

Nashville, Tenn. (February 16, 2016) – Multi-platinum selling TobyMac was recognized with his seventh career GRAMMY® Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album for THIS IS NOT A TEST at the 58th Annual GRAMMY® Awards. THIS IS NOT TEST, his sixth studio album, debuted at No. 1 on the Christian Albums Chart, No. 4 on the Billboard Top 200 and No. 3 on the Digital Albums Chart and boasted the GRAMMY® nominated No. 1 radio hit “Feel It." Garnering critical acclaim and notable placement, THIS IS NOT A TEST received coverage from ESPN Music, FOX & Friends, HLN’s “Weekend Express,” ABC Radio, Billboard, FOX News, Patheos and more.

TobyMac’s GRAMMY® win comes at the start of his 2016 HITS DEEP Tour, kicking off February 18 in Baton Rouge, La. Britt Nicole, Colton Dixon, Building 429, Capital Kings, Finding Favour and Hollyn will join TobyMac on the tour, traveling to over 25 markets. For more information on the tour, visit tobymac.com/tour.

About TobyMac:
With more than 11 million units in career sales and a whopping seven GRAMMY® Awards, TobyMac's career continues on the fast track. His most recent studio album, THIS IS NOT A TEST garnered a GRAMMY® Award and a high marking debut at No. 4 on the Billboard Top 200. Each one of his previous five studio solo projects have achieved Gold certification, a first for an artist in the history of his label, Capitol Christian Music Group. Among those honored with Gold certification, EYE ON IT, which debuted atop the Billboard 200, only the third ever Christian album to do so. His live DVD, ALIVE & TRANSPORTED, is RIAA Certified platinum and received a GRAMMY® award.

Get Connected With TobyMac
Website // www.tobymac.com

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

Hillsong UNITED Unveils Music Videos Utilizing Cutting Edge 360 Virtual Reality Technology

EMPIRES tour now underway in U.S.

Nashville, Tenn. (February 12, 2016) - Giving viewers a literal 360 degree perspective, Hillsong UNITED has surprised fans with two 360 live performance videos for their newest radio single “Say The Word” and their well-known “Relentless (remix)." Ranging from views of stage front to the back of the arena, observers can use their smart phone, computer or other device to control the camera angle when viewing the filmed live performances thanks to the virtual reality technology. The "Relentless (remix)" video is available in full VR 3D at FaithVR.com with any viewer. 

In their first touring return to North America since 2013, the EMPIRES tour kicked off in Florida on Thursday, February 11 and will conclude with two dates in Honolulu, Hawaii. Due to sold-out shows, additional dates have already been added to the band’s U.S. trek. For the latest touring information, click here. 

About UNITED:
UNITED is a worship band that originally rose out of the youth ministry of Hillsong Church in Sydney, Australia. This progressive worship band is a global recording and touring entity sent out to share the ever-evolving worship music of Hillsong Church to an international audience through live performances and records. UNITED desires to see a generation across the earth awakened to real love, rising up with hearts as one and finding value in the broken, hurting and lost connecting with Jesus.

The Billboard Music Award winner’s newest record EMPIRES debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard Top 200 to critical support from The New York Times, The Today Show, USA Today and Yahoo! Most recently, Hillsong UNITED was named the Top Christian Artist of 2015 by Billboard Magazine. Selling out venues across multiple continents, Hillsong UNITED have filled major U.S. venues including Staples Center (Los Angeles), Radio City Music Hall (New York City), Red Rocks Amphitheater (Denver) and more. It is estimated that over 30 million people sing their songs each week, among those, their platinum selling single “Oceans."

About Hillsong Church:
In August 1983, Brian and Bobbie Houston founded the Hills Christian Life Centre in the Hills District of Sydney, Australia. It has grown from a congregation of 45 to what is said to be the largest local church in Australian history. It has now expanded to be a global church with local expressions in significant cities; with churches in Australia, London, New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Cape Town, Stockholm, Germany, Kiev, Amsterdam and Copenhagen. Each week, tens of thousands of people across the globe call Hillsong Church ‘home’ and the reach, impact and influence of this local congregation is seen across many nations.

Get Connected with Hillsong UNITED:
Website // www.hillsong.com/united
Hashtag // #EmpiresTour

# # #

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

HERSHEY'S KISSES Helps Colton Dixon Surprise Wife Annie For Valentines Day With UBER Serenade In Nashville

Nashville, Tenn. (February 12, 2016) — To celebrate their first Valentines Day as a married couple, Colton Dixon surprised his new wife Annie with an UBER Serenade and HERSHEY'S KISSES, delivered to their favorite Nashville coffee shop, Revelator Coffee.

Dixon was the first to order the UBER Serenade, which is a live, in-person performance of a love song from a Nashville artist delivered to any location in minutes. Each serenade experience comes with a heart-shaped box of KISSES DELUXE chocolates.

Country trio Sister C showed up to serenade the couple. 

Colton and Annie wed in Nashville January 8, and PEOPLE Magazine exclusively covered the big day as well as their honeymoon, which became one of the popular website's most read stories of the week.

Dixon is prepping to head out on the Hits Deep Tour alongside tobyMac, Britt Nicole and more. For more info, visit: coltondixon.com.

About Colton Dixon
Colton Dixon quickly became a household name in 2012 when he made it to the top seven on Season 11 of Fox's hit show American Idol, and his career has been on the fast track ever since. Dixon's 2013 debut, A Messenger, set the record for biggest first-week sales by a new solo Christian act, becoming the No. 1 selling album by a new Christian artist and the No. 9 best-selling album of 2013 in the Christian genre overall. In just a few short years, Dixon has already played live for more than 1 million fans, performing at festivals like Winter Jam and touring with acts such as Third Day, TobyMac and Casting Crowns. Colton Dixon has also been named the latest Steinway artist, following in the footsteps of legendary artists such as Harry Connick, Jr. and Billy Joel. Dixon's sophomore effort ANCHOR 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. In 2013, Dixon won a Dove Award for Best Rock/Contemporary Album Of The Year, along with two additional nominations. In 2015, ANCHOR was honored with the Dove Award for Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year. Dixon received back-to-back K-LOVE Fan Award nominations for Male Artist of the Year in 2014 and 2015. Dixon’s dual EPs Calm and Storm are available now.

Get Connected with Colton Dixon
Website // www.coltondixon.com

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Media Contact
Kirsten Grenier & Velvet Kelm
the media collective
kirsten@themcollective.com
velvet@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
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Hillsong UNITED Brings EMPIRES Tour To The United States With Dates Already Sold-Out

“Say The Word” from EMPIRES impacting radio now

Nashville, Tenn. (February 3, 2016) – After recent stops in India, Singapore and Indonesia, Billboard Music Award winners Hillsong UNITED will bring their highly acclaimed EMPIRES tour to the United States, featuring special guests Rend Collective. In their first touring return to North America since 2013, EMPIRES tour will kick off February 11 in Sunrise, Fla. and end with two dates in Honolulu, Hawaii. Due to sold-out shows, additional dates have already been added to the band's U.S. trek. 

The Australian-based Hillsong UNITED has a long history of sold-out shows in the United States, including notable venues such as the famed Hollywood Bowl (Los Angeles), Staples Center (Los Angeles), Red Rocks (Denver), ShoWare Center (Seattle), Gwinnett Center (Atlanta) and BankUnited Center (Miami). Hillsong UNITED holds the record for largest attendance ever in the Sears Centre Arena (Chicago, IL), outdrawing concerts there by such legendary performers as Billy Joel, Elton John and the Eagles. Since 2006, Hillsong UNITED has toured six continents and 42 nations. 

“We haven’t really done our own thing in the USA since WelcomeZion 2013, so we are super excited to be bringing the EMPIRES tour to the states,” shares Joel Houston of Hillsong UNITED.  “We write songs to be sung with people – they are always for the people – so when we get to sing these songs with people on the road, it is the purpose of why we do what we do! We can’t wait to worship with people singing all the new EMPIRES songs as well as everyone’s favorites.”

“Say The Word," the latest single from Hillsong UNITED's EMPIRES is currently impacting radio. The track picked up 30 adds in only two weeks. EMPIRES strongly debuted in Spring 2015 at No. 1 on Billboard's Christian Albums Chart and No. 5 on the Billboard Top 200. The album was met with appearances on The Today Show and Yahoo! along with critical acclaim from the likes of USA Today and The New York Times which remarked their talent as “a musical powerhouse.” 

EMPIRES 2016 Tour
February 11 – BB&T Center – Sunrise, FL
February 12 – CFE Arena (University of Central Florida) – Orlando, FL
February 13/14 – USF Sun Dome – Tampa, FL
February 15 - Smoothie King Center - New Orleans, LA
February 16 – FedEx Forum – Memphis, TN
February 18 – Cedar Park Center – Austin, TX
February 19 – American Airlines Center – Dallas, TX
February 20 – United Supermarkets Arena (Texas Tech University) – Lubbock, TX
February 22 – Gila River Arena – Phoenix, AZ
February 23 – Citizens Business Bank Arena – Ontario, CA
February 26/27 – Neal Blaisdell Arena – Honolulu, HI


About UNITED:
UNITED is a worship band that originally rose out of the youth ministry of Hillsong Church in Sydney, Australia. This progressive worship band is a global recording and touring entity sent out to share the ever-evolving worship music of Hillsong Church to an international audience through live performances and records. UNITED desires to see a generation across the earth awakened to real love, rising up with hearts as one and finding value in the broken, hurting and lost connecting with Jesus.

The Billboard Music Award winner’s newest record EMPIRES debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard Top 200 to critical support from The New York Times, The Today Show, USA Today and Yahoo! Most recently, Hillsong UNITED was named the Top Christian Artist of 2015 by Billboard Magazine. Selling out venues across multiple continents, Hillsong UNITED have filled major U.S. venues including Staples Center (Los Angeles), Radio City Music Hall (New York City), Red Rocks Amphitheater (Denver) and more. It is estimated that over 30 million people sing their songs each week, among those, their platinum selling single “Oceans."

About Hillsong Church:
In August 1983, Brian and Bobbie Houston founded the Hills Christian Life Centre in the Hills District of Sydney, Australia. It has grown from a congregation of 45 to what is said to be the largest local church in Australian history. It has now expanded to be a global church with local expressions in significant cities; with churches in Australia, London, New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Cape Town, Stockholm, Germany, Kiev, Amsterdam and Copenhagen. Each week, tens of thousands of people across the globe call Hillsong Church ‘home’ and the reach, impact and influence of this local congregation is seen across many nations.

Get Connected with Hillsong UNITED:
Website // www.hillsong.com/united
Hashtag // #EmpiresTour

# # #

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

Full Circle Music Launches Podcast Featuring Top Industry Influencers

GRAMMY® winning producer Seth Mosley interviews guests including Tom Douglas, Neal Avron, Jason Turner, Reid Shippen and more

Nashville, Tenn. (February 2, 2016) - Focusing on the experiences, knowledge, skills and advice of the best in music, Full Circle Music has launched a weekly podcast, The Full Circle Music Show, giving veterans a chance to share what they have learned in the industry. Episodes of the Full Circle Music Show are available on iTunes and FullCircleMusic.org.

Bearing iconic guest names such as Tom Douglas (Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert and Tim McGraw), Tim Lauer (Taylor Swift, Blake Shelton and The Civil Wars), Neal Avron (Sara Bareilles and Fall Out Boy), Jason Turner (OneRepublic and Backstreet Boys), Reid Shippen (Keith Urban and Kenny Chesney) and more, each podcast is moderated by GRAMMY® Award Winner Seth Mosley of Full Circle Music. Future guests for 2016 include Michael W. Smith (multi-platinum selling singer, songwriter and musician), Jason Ingram (Chris Tomlin, Meredith Andrews) and Brad O' Donnell (Vice President of A&R, Capitol CMG Label Group). 

"The Full Circle Music Show has been one of the most fun things I've been a part of in my career. It's the back story that I love," shares Mosley. "Most people don't know the blood, sweat and tears that goes into making a successful career in the music business. This shines a light on what it really takes to make it. It shows the ‘why’ of the industry. I'm inspired more every day to get up and go to work since we started doing this show. I hope it's inspiring and enlightening for the listener too."

For more information on Full Circle Music and The Full Circle Music Show, visitFullCircleMusic.org.


The Full Circle Music Show Episodes
1: Why with Seth Mosley
2: Emergency with Reid Shippen
3: Servant with Brown Bannister
4: Vulnerability with Tom Douglas
5: Preparation with Neal Avron
6: Tenacity with Mia Fieldes
7: Relationships with Steve Ford
8: Enjoyment with Sean Moffitt
9: Ally with Jason Turner
10: Friendship with John Mays
11: You Got It Man with Tim Lauer

About Full Circle Music:
Under the leadership of GRAMMY®-winning producer and songwriter Seth Mosley (SESAC Writer of the Year 2014, Billboard No. 1 Producer 2013, GMA Dove Award Songwriter of the Year 2015, non-artist), Full Circle Music is comprised of a team of producers, engineers, songwriters, editors, studios and creators that work with both signed and independent artists. With 20 No. 1 singles and credits including Mat Kearney, MercyMe, TobyMac, Jon Foreman (Switchfoot), Sidewalk Prophets, Newsboys and country acts like High Valley, Ricky Skaggs and more, the Full Circle Music team offers a wealth of combined experience from multiple genres including pop, Christian and country.

Get Connected with Full Circle Music
Website // fullcirclemusic.org

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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
@themcollective

Critics Welcome Stars Go Dim’s “Beautiful” Self-Titled Debut Album, Declaring It “Infectious At Every Turn"

K-LOVE exclusively debuts "You Are Loved" music video

Band continues to play for thousands of fans on Winter Jam Tour

Nashville, Tenn. (February 2, 2016) — Stars Go Dim is breaking into the Christian music world with their debut self-titled album, and critics and fans alike are welcoming the band with open arms. After debuting digitally in October, along with an exclusive physical release through Lifeway Christian Stores, Stars Go Dim hit physical outlets worldwide this past Friday.

Yesterday, K-LOVE partnered with Stars Go Dim and Fervent Records to exclusively premiere the band's first official music video for "You Are Loved." The single continues to rapidly climb radio charts, hitting No. 5 on Billboard’s National Christian Audience chart this week.

Click below to watch the official video for "You Are Loved."

As "You Are Loved," continues to gain momentum, critics are responding to the full album with the same enthusiasm. Here's what they are saying about Stars Go Dim, available now:

"Infectious at every turn" 
 - CCM Magazine

"Their debut album is a polished, spiritual, yet fun pop album...it is executed beautifully."
- NewReleaseToday

"One of my favorite albums of the year" 
- 365 days of Inspiring Media

"In fourteen tracks, the band encourages, inspires, reminds, and comforts with a beautiful blend of electronic and acoustic sounds. Without a doubt, Stars Go Dim has a well-earned place in the forefront of developing contemporary Christian music."
- The Christian Beat

"This album is positive, worshipful and definitely bright."  
- Hallels

"There’s something on this record for everyone."
- The Front Row Report

Stars Go Dim is rapidly gaining a strong fanbase as they travel throughout the country for Winter Jam Tour, performing alongside acts such as for KING & COUNTRY, Matthew West and more. To keep up with the band's schedule, visit: starsgodim.com.

About Stars Go Dim
Fervent Records' latest act Stars Go Dim is composed of Chris Cleveland, Michael Cleveland, Kyle Williams and Josh Roach. Each member of the Tulsa-based band lends unique musical talents that have been honed for nearly twenty years each, including lead singer, Chris Cleveland, who began traveling and singing with his brother, Michael, at age 12. Stars Go Dim's first single, "You Are Loved" has received incredible response at radio, reaching the top 2 at CHR and the Top 5 on AC Indicator. The band is traveling the country performing in front of 600,000+ fans alongside for KING & COUNTRY, Lauren Daigle and more on the Winter Jam Tour Spectacular. The band's debut album Stars Go Dim is available now.

Get Connected With Stars Go Dim
Website: starsgodim.com
iTunes: http://smarturl.it/starsgodim
Spotify: http://smarturl.it/starsgodimspotify

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Media Contact
Kirsten Grenier
the media collective
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615.591.7989
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Critics Say Passion Has "Never Sounded Better" With Latest Release Passion: Salvation's Tide Is Rising

Physical albums available now after chart-topping digital release

Nashville, Tenn. (February 1, 2016) — Fans are finally able to get their hands on copies of Passion: Salvation's Tide Is Rising, now available in physical format after releasing digitally earlier this month. The album debuted at No. 3 on Billboard's Digital Albums Chart, No. 6 on Billboard's Top Albums Chart and made its seventh No. 1 debut on Billboard's Christian Albums Chart.

Featuring Chris Tomlin, Crowder, Matt Redman, Christy Nockels, Kristian Stanfill, Melodie Malone, Brett Younker and Jimi Cravity, the worship anthems were introduced to more than 40,000 18-25 year olds at Passion 2016 conferences held in Houston and Atlanta arenas January 2-4.

Here's what critics are saying about Passion: Salvation's Tide Is Rising:

"...The entire album is spectacular" 
- NewReleaseToday

"This year’s Passion album is one of the most impressive yet." 
- The Front Row Report

"For years, the Passion movement has been ahead of the curve, delivering worship music that connects. With Passion: Salvation’s Tide Is Rising, listeners will find that this is still the case." 
- Soul Audio

"Passion has probably never sounded better to the ears." 
- JesusFreakHideout.com

"Salvation’s Tide Is Rising, in a refreshingly simple way, takes us back to the roots of our hope in Christ; love, grace, surrender." 
- Today's Christian Ent.

"Easily the best Passion worship release in several years."
- CCM Magazine

Media outlets such as Billboard, CCM Magazine and more continue to support Passion, touting the album's impressive chart placement. 

During Passion 2016, students donated $811,813 to help construct a hospital in war-torn Syria. Once completed, the hospital will serve 12,000 women and children each year and will offer one of the few neonatal intensive care units in the country. Also making an impact locally, students filled bins with thousands of towels and socks - two of the most needed items at homeless shelters - upon arrival at each Passion 2016 location. This year, Atlanta’s City of Refuge and Houston’s Star of Hope received the needed items.

Passion: Salvation's Tide Is Rising is available now.


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 ten 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 (ADORE: Christmas Songs of Worship), Crowder (Neon Steeple), Matt Redman (Unbroken Praise), Christy Nockels (Let It Be Jesus), Kristian Stanfill (Mountains Move) and Passion (Passion: Salvation's Tide Is Rising). 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

Media Contact
Kirsten Grenier
the media collective
kirsten@themcollective.com
615-591-7989
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Skillet’s Hit Single “Monster” Receives RIAA 2x Platinum Certification, Recognized As Biggest Digital Single In Christian Music History

Six years after release, song continues to dominate, named No. 1 Christian and No. 8 Rock Streaming Song of 2015

Nashville, Tenn. (February 1, 2016) - Upon RIAA 2x platinum certification and accumulating over 2.6 million in sales and streams, multi-platinum rock band Skillet’s hit single “Monster” continues to live up to its name, now recognized as the biggest digital single in Christian music history. Even six years after its release, the song continues to dominate, touted by Billboard at the close of 2015 as both the No. 1 Christian, and No. 8 Rock streaming song of the year.  The band was also recognized as the No. 1 Christian and No. 9 Rock streaming artist of 2015 on Billboard’s year-end charts.

“2016 marks Skillet’s 20th anniversary, and the band has been with the Atlantic family for a dozen years now,” noted Atlantic Chairman & CEO Craig Kallman. “They have accomplished what few bands ever attain – true career longevity alongside constant creative growth. This fantastic achievement for ‘Monster’ is not only a milestone in Christian music, but a landmark in the history of rock. All of us at Atlantic are deeply proud to play our part in the amazing Skillet story.”

Also commenting on the significance of this accomplishment, Word Entertainment President and CEO Rod Riley remarked, “Skillet is firmly among an exclusive and elite group of game-changing artists spanning the course of Contemporary Christian music history. With the achievement represented by ‘Monster’ becoming the biggest digital single in the history of the genre, the band has only further cemented their position as trail-blazing leaders."

After heavy domestic and international touring in both the Christian and general market, Skillet is currently recording their next studio project in LA with producer Brian Howes, who produced their 2003 hit project, Comatose,  as well as notable projects with Hinder, Simple Plan, Puddle of Mudd, Nickelback, Daughtry, Halestorm and Hedley.


About Skillet
GRAMMY® nominated and platinum selling rock band Skillet has sold more than 11 million albums and singles in the U.S., amassing a diehard social following whose members number nearly seven million with more than 160 million views on YouTube alone. Their most recent project, the Dove Award garnering RISE (2013), debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard Top 200 and No. 1 on the Billboard Rock and Christian charts, boasting four consecutive No. 1 radio hits and a late night television debut on Conan. The LP served as the follow-up to 2009 platinum blockbuster, AWAKE, which garnered three Billboard Music Awards and spawned four multi format hit singles. Included in those is the platinum selling “Awake & Alive” and two-time platinum single “Monster” whose companion video has generated more than 69 million YouTube views, helping make Skillet the only active rock band to achieve RIAA Platinum Certification in 2012. 2015 saw the Billboard Music Award winners continuing atop the charts as the famed magazine placed them in the top 10 in four year-end categories including "Rock Streaming Songs” and “Rock Streaming Songs.” Known for their explosive live performance, Skillet treks the globe, headlining sold-out shows all over the world including the U.S., Europe, Brazil, Russia and more.

Get Connected With Skillet
Website // www.skillet.com

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

Urban Rescue Debuts Wild Heart EP, First Official Release With Rend Family Records

Relevant exclusively premieres "His Name" lyric video

Band joins Rend Collective on "As Family We Go" Tour

Nashville, Tenn. (February 1, 2016) — Urban Rescue, an LA-based revival band, has released Wild Heart EP, their first official release with Rend Family Records - a partnership between Irish worship band Rend Collective and Capitol Christian Music Group.

"My prayer for people when they hear our music is that they find the beginning of hope. A new start," Frontman Jordan Frye said. "That the love of God would touch their heart in such a way that they would know that Jesus is real. I know what it feels like to be hopeless and at the end of your faith and left wondering what there is on the other side. My hope is that for the person who feels hopeless, lost or brokenhearted that they would find in our music a spark that ignites the flame of faith again or for the first time. A faith that knows there is something more to Jesus than just another religious practice. A faith that believes Jesus is alive and is close to the brokenhearted."

Critics are responding to Wild Heart EP with enthusiasm, calling the release "powerful." Read more below:

"Urban Rescue does a masterful job at meshing pop sensibility with devoted praise – 
we can’t wait to hear more."
- CCM Magazine

"Urban Rescue is a name to watch" 
- Hallels

"Without a doubt, Urban Rescue has delivered a truly powerful record. Each and every song delivers in massive, bold worship and praise." 
- The Christian Beat

"There’s something to be said about how powerful, encouraging and exalting Wild Heart is. If this is a sign of what’s to come from Urban Rescue, it’s clear that it’s going to be a fun, powerful and spiritually-empowering ride." 
- The Front Row Report

"Urban Rescue brilliantly urges us to give our neighborhoods a second look with God’s eyes." 
- Today's Christian Entertainment

"A generous mixture of joyous, acoustic-based anthems...a solid promise of more to come."
- Jesus Freak Hideout

"Fresh and different and invigorating...a must listen."
- 365 Days of Inspiring Media

Last Thursday, Relevant exclusively premiered the lyric video for "His Name," a track from Wild Heart EP. Watch the video here.

Urban Rescue is set to join Rend Collective on their "As Family We Go" US Tour this fall, playing more than 30 venues across the country, followed by a nine-city UK run in May. For dates and additional information, click here.


About Urban Rescue
Urban Rescue is a revival band from Los Angeles and the first ever act signed to Rend Family Records – a partnership between Irish worship band Rend Collective and Capitol Christian Music Group. Fronted by Jordan Frye, Urban Rescue is on mission to inspire the next generation of believers to see their churches, communities and cities awakened by the Gospel of Jesus Christ. With an untamed passion for worship emerging from pain and trials, the band has a heart to see broken cities and lives restored. Urban Rescue will join Rend Collective this spring, traveling to cities across the US and UK on the "As Family We Go" Tour. Their first project with Rend Family Records, Wild Heart EP, is available now.


Get Connected With Urban Rescue
Website // www.urbanrescuemusic.com

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Media Contact
Kirsten Grenier
the media collective
kirsten@themcollective.com
615-591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Fellowship Creative's New Album Eclipsed Releases Today

Nashville, Tenn. (January 29, 2016) — Fellowship Creative is a movement of artists emerging from and revolving around Fellowship Church (Grapevine, TX.), and they make music because they believe it reaches people in a way nothing else can. Their aim is to spread hope with their latest release Eclipsed. Available today, the album helps tell the story of what God has done and is doing in the lives of people at Fellowship Church.

“This album was really written through a lot of darkness," Fellowship Creative leader Derric Bonnot says. “Situations either we were dealing with or people in our church were dealing with...But one thing God is always teaching us is that so often in the darkness, the light shines the brightest. And so, something we’ve been encouraging our church with as we’ve been introducing these songs is no matter what is going on in your life, you put it face to face against Jesus, He will eclipse it every time.”

"Stars," one of Bonnot's favorite tracks on the album, was inspired by personal loss as he and his wife experienced a miscarriage. Check out the official video for "Stars" below. 

Eclipsed is available for purchase here.

Eclipsed
1. The Moment
2. Grace On Top Of Grace
3. Jesus Our Hope
4. Stars
5. Jesus Is Alive
6. Never Giving Up
7. Caution To The Wind
8. No Escape
9. Lead Me
10. Eclipsed
11. Holding Onto You

About Fellowship Creative
Fellowship Creative is a collective of various artists (led by Derric Bonnot) with a heart and mission to point people to God through creativity and innovation – an endeavor that stems from its base, Fellowship Church. Launched in 1990 by Pastor Ed Young, the church has become an innovative leader in using multimedia and the arts to engage people with the Gospel, and their communication efforts are shaped by a core team of individuals who also guide Fellowship Creative. The overall mission is to use creativity to help people understand the bible's relevance to their lives as the church seeks to minister to people in various walks of faith. Based in Grapevine, TX with eight additional campuses, more than 20,000 people attend Fellowship Church weekly. Fellowship Creative's label debut Running To Follow (Fair Trade Services) released in 2014, with a live EP, Alive In Us, hitting in 2015. Their latest release, Eclipsed, is available now.

Get Connected with Fellowship Creative
Website // www.fellowshipcreative.com

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Media Contact
Kirsten Grenier
the media collective
kirsten@themcollective.com
615-591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Helmed By Phil Joel, Zealand Worship Shares Organic Collection Of Songs With Release Of Zealand Worship The EP

Band treks U.S. and Canada in support of newest music

Nashville, Tenn. (January 29, 2016) - Zealand Worship, led by long-time Newsboys bassist and vocalist Phil Joel, has unveiled new music with Word Worship, a division of Word Entertainment, bearing the name Zealand Worship The EP. Among the songs featured on the EP is “Good Good Father," making it the first major label release of the now popular song.

After Joel’s departure from 13 years with the multi-platinum selling Newsboys, ministry opportunities began to emerge throughout the United States, New Zealand, Australia and China. Joel and fellow musicians, all who have been part of successful bands, have been operating organically “off the grid,” going where they have felt led, under the radar and outside of the spotlight. It’s been a season of growth and preparation for the next chapter, which is aptly entitled Zealand Worship.

Much of Zealand Worship’s time on the road has been spent delivering truth in an electric live worship experience to a youth audience at a critical & impactful time in their lives. Consciously choosing not to embrace social media as part of their promotion, the band hopes to engage with people in genuine experience and desires to be a part of the ongoing conversation of social media’s effects on preventing us from being relevant, awake and alive.

“I’m from New Zealand but the name isn’t about a country; it’s a state - a state of being zealous for the ‘land’ God has for each one of us, starting with our relationship with Him,” shares Joel. “Leading worship from within this band has been the freshest and most invigorating ministry opportunity I’ve ever been a part of. Hopefully we can be a part of a fire- starter movement of worship that goes beyond the sparks of a corporate worship moment to where people experience and enjoy God everyday.”

Joining forces with MercyMe, LifeLight and more, Zealand Worship will spend much of 2016 on tour. To view the latest tour schedule, click here. Lifeway currently has an exclusive sale on Zealand Worship The EP, allowing listeners to purchase the album for only $5. 

Zealand Worship The EP is available on all DSP's and streaming services, including iTunes and Spotify.

Get Connected with Zealand Worship
Website // www.zealandworship.com 

About Zealand Worship:
The journey to Zealand Worship has been a wild and adventurous one that no one anticipated. Led by Phil Joel, best known for his long-standing role as bass player and vocalist for the multi-platinum selling band Newsboys, Zealand Worship has been faithfully traversing a road that has been as unscripted and unexpected as it has been ordained. When Joel left Newsboys after 13 years, it wasn’t long before ministry opportunities began to emerge throughout the United States, New Zealand, Australia and China. Without even realizing it, Joel’s perspective began to shift, opening his eyes to a new understanding about worship and his role in it. Joel and fellow musicians, all who have been part of successful bands, have been operating “off the grid,” ministering where they have been invited, under the radar in a season of preparation for the next chapter, which is aptly titled Zealand Worship. The band isn’t defining their music or their success by numbers or sales, but in a lasting experience that people can continue to live out in their everyday lives, long after the worship experience has ended. Zealand Worship signed with Word Worship, a division of Word Entertainment, in May 2015. Zealand Worship The EP is available now.
 

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

MTV Exclusively Unveils Hillsong Young & Free’s “Where You Are” Music Video

Youth Revival set to release globally on February 26

Nashville, Tenn. (January 21, 2016) - Hillsong Young & Free’s newest single “Where You Are” has taken over MTV! Filmed in their native Australia, the music video is appearing exclusively across the popular network’s three broadcast channels (MTV, MTVHits, mtvU) as well as MTV.com and mtvU.com. Upon release of the single in December, the track resonated with listeners, garnering a position in Spotify’s viral top 50 and a current spot in the Top 20 at Hot AC/CHR. 

“It doesn’t matter how much satisfaction that you can get from the world, you are never truly satisfied until you are where God is, where He wants you to be and where He is purposed you to be," explains Hillsong Young & Free’s Laura Toggs when sharing the concept of “Where You Are.” "This song is about pursuing and choosing that over everything else."

Hillsong Young & Free’s newest album Youth Revival, which includes "Where You Are," has an upcoming global release date of February 26. The eclectic collection of songs found on Youth Revival articulate the deep desire of the human heart for something more. With their relevant EDM and pop sound, the project continues their own journey and experiences through their faith.

About Hillsong Young & Free:
Hillsong Young & Free is a youth movement born out of Hillsong Church in Sydney, Australia. In this thirty year story, they have seen generations of people serving, leading and pioneering movements. Hillsong Young & free is comprised of a collective of young people who come together to make music for youth and young adults everywhere. Their first album We Are Young & Free (2013) debuted to the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Christian/Gospel Chart. Also scoring a No. 1 debut, their most recent EP, This Is Living (2015), garnered a top 10 iTunes overall spot and received support from MTV, MTVHits and mtvU. With millions of social followers engaging in the social conversation, Hillsong Young & Free has scored two No. 1 radio singles. Their anticipated release of Youth Revival is due out in February 2016. Hillsong Young & Free fill stadiums across the globe and continue to push their positive message in the musical context of EDM and pop influences.

About Hillsong Church:
In August 1983, Brian and Bobbie Houston founded the Hills Christian Life Centre in the Hills District of Sydney, Australia. It has grown from a congregation of 45 to what is said to be the largest local church in Australian history. It has now expanded to be a global church with local expressions in significant cities; with churches in Australia, London, New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Cape Town, Stockholm, Germany, Kiev, Amsterdam and Copenhagen. Each week, tens of thousands of people across the globe call Hillsong Church ‘home’ and the reach, impact and influence of this local congregation is seen across many nations.

Get Connected with Hillsong Young & Free:
Website // www.hillsongyoungandfree.com
Snapchat // hillsongyandf

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

Elisabeth Hasselbeck And Matthew West To Host 2016 K-LOVE Fan Awards Live From Nashville

Early fan voting underway at KLOVEFanAwards.com to determine 2016 nominees

Nashville, Tenn. (January 20, 2016) - Elisabeth Hasselbeck and Matthew West are set to host the 2016 K-LOVE Fan Awards live from the Grand Ole Opry House on June 5, 2016. K-LOVE, the leading Christian music radio network with a weekly listenership of over 14 million people, will once again bring the only fan-voted experience in the industry to Nashville, Tenn. June 3 – 5, 2016.

Fans are already voting on KLOVEFanAwards.com to select their favorite artists played on the nationwide network. Their votes will formulate the official nominees in each of the seven categories, including Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Female Artist of the Year and more. To place your vote, click here.

"What a thrill and blessing it is to co-host the 2016 K-LOVE Fan Awards with the brilliant Matthew West," shares Hasselbeck. "To all my K-LOVE friends: get ready to praise and party with us because #GodIsGood!" The New York Times bestselling author and long-time Christian music fan originally announced her return as host live on FOX & Friends during her final day on the widely popular morning show.

"I'm so excited to be hosting this year's awards along with Elisabeth," explains West. "This event has become such a wonderful celebration of how God uses Christian music to impact culture through K-LOVE's airwaves every single day, and I'm honored to be part of what is sure to be an unforgettable night.  In preparation for the big day, I'll be watching countless hours of the great hosts in history like Dick Clark and Ryan Seacrest. Don't worry, I'll be ready!" A four-time GRAMMY® nominee, West released Live Forever last April.

Offering a weekend of unparalleled access and experiences for music fans, packages are now available for purchase. For the latest information on the 2016 K-LOVE Fan Awards, stay tuned to KLOVEFanAwards.com.


ABOUT ELISABETH HASSELBECK
Elisabeth Hasselbeck most recently served as co-host of FOX News Channel’s (FNC) FOX & Friends. Prior to FNC, Hasselbeck was a co-host on ABC’s The View for 10 years. During her time on the daytime talk show, she and her co-hosts were selected by Time Magazine as one of the “100 Most Influential People in the World,” and in July 2009, Forbes ranked The View as No. 11 on the list of “30 of the Most Influential Women.” Until 2013, she had also been a contributor to ABC’s Good Morning America since October 2010. Hasselbeck has interviewed Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama and was also a keynote speaker at the Republican National Convention in both 2004 and 2008. Additionally, as a woman with Celiac Disease, she works closely with the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University to raise awareness about the autoimmune disease and has written two New York Times best sellers, “The G-Free Diet” and the cookbook, “Deliciously G-Free.”

ABOUT MATTHEW WEST
Matthew West is a multiple ASCAP Christian Music Songwriter/Artist of the Year winner, a four-time GRAMMY® nominee, and was awarded his first American Music Award (2013) and a Billboard Music Award (2014). Matthew West’s discography includes acclaimed releases: Happy (2003), History (2005), Something to Say (2008), The Story of Your Life (2010) and GRAMMY®-nominated Into The Light (2012) and most recently Live Forever (2015). West was nominated for a Primetime Emmy® Award for Original Music & Lyrics for “The Heart of Christmas” from the film of the same name. His songwriting credits include cuts by Rascal Flatts, Scotty McCreery, Casting Crowns, Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Diamond Rio and more. He wrapped 2013 with his own headlining in the fall of 2013 and “The Story Tour” in December. During 2014, West toured with the “Hits Deep Tour” as well as his sell-out “Hello My Name Is…” acoustic tour. He is currently co-headlining 2016’s Winter Jam.

ABOUT THE K-LOVE FAN AWARDS
The K-LOVE Fan Awards mission is to create a fan experience that celebrates and promotes artists, athletes, authors and entertainers who, with excellence, engage and impact popular culture for Jesus Christ. This year’s show will include co-hosts Elisabeth Hasselbeck and Matthew West. Previous hosts for the event include Phil & Kay Robertson and Jase & Missy Robertson from A&E TV’s popular show “Duck Dynasty,” Candace Cameron Bure and Kirk Cameron. For more information visit www.KLOVEFanAwards.com. The K-LOVE Fan Awards is a John Sanders LLC/World Hope Event.

ABOUT K-LOVE
K-LOVE plays positive, encouraging contemporary Christian music with a message designed to draw people toward an authentic relationship with God while living out real life in the real world. The radio network has 446 signals in 47 states with an estimated weekly audience of over 14 million. Now with their Fan Awards, their mission is to create a unique and fun fan experience that celebrates and promotes artists, athletes, authors and entertainers, who, with excellence, engage and impact popular culture for Jesus Christ.

Get Connected with the 2016 K-LOVE Fan Awards:
Website // KLOVEFanAwards.com
Hashtag // #klovefanawards
Media Credentials // themcollective.com/klovefanawards/media

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

GRAMMY® Acclaimed Crowder Debuts Neon Steeple Extravaganza, Available Today

2016 already marked by GRAMMY® nomination and
Winter Jam Tour Spectacular for Crowder

Nashville, Tenn. (January 15, 2016) – After a surprise digital EP release last fall, Crowder has debuted Neon Steeple Extravaganza, an expanded edition of his widely acclaimed Neon Steeple (2014) available in retail stores today. Included in the physical release are songs from his first solo debut as well as six new live songs from Neon Porch Extravaganza (2015).

Bearing the name of Crowder's faithful touring sidekick, KennyRodgersTheArticFox.com  transports listeners via video to the lively Atlanta gathering where Crowder recorded the live tracks amongst a petting zoo, mechanical bull and drones. Raving over the live versions of his Neon Steeple Tunes, critics have ranged the performances from "fun" and "progressive" to "raw" and "emotional." To purchase Neon Steeple Extravaganza on Amazon, click here.

Shortly after receiving a GRAMMY® Nomination for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song, Crowder joined Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, Christy Nockels, Kristian Stanfill, Melodie Malone, Brett Younker and Jimi Cravity for the latest Passion album, Passion: Salvation's Tide Is Rising. The release earned No. 1 on the Billboard Christian Chart,No. 3 on Billboard's Digital Albums Chart and No. 6 on the Billboard Top Albums Chart. Crowder is currently taking his renowned live stage show across the country as part of the Winter Jam Tour Spectacular.

Neon Steeple Extravaganza
Disc One:
1. Neon Intro
2. My Beloved
3. I Am
4. Come Alive
5. Lift Your Head Weary Sinner (Chains)
6. Come As You Are
7. Hands Of Love
8. Jesus Is Calling
9. My Sweet Lord (feat. Emmylou Harris)
10. This I Know
11. Ain't No Grave
12. You Are
13. Here's My Heart
14. Steeple Outro

Disc Two:
1. My Beloved Live
2. I Am Live
3. Lift Your Head Weary Sinner (Chains) [feat. Tedashii] Live
4. Hold On, We're Going Home Live
5. Come As You Are Live
6. Hands Of Love Live
 

About Crowder:
Crowder has been embraced for his lyrically powerful and musically elaborate and unpredictable songs that have found themselves being sung everywhere from churches to clubs all across the country. As a solo artist, Crowder has received two GRAMMY® Nominations, K-LOVE Fan Award Nods and five GMA Dove Awards Nominations. Crowder’s first solo album, Neon Steeple, debuted at No. 8 on the Billboard 200, named iTunes 2014 Christian Album of the Year and boasted a No. 1 radio hit. Featuring a duet with music legend Emmy Lou Harris, Crowder made his debut appearance on the Grand Ole Opry in 2014. As an active member of the Passion movement founded by Louie Giglio, Crowder participates in the impactful university student gatherings in the U.S. and around the world. A published author, Crowder has also penned two books including his acclaimed release, "Everybody Wants to Go to Heaven, but Nobody Wants to Die." 

About sixstepsrecords:
Founded in 2000 by Louie Giglio, sixstepsrecords is a worship label and a division of Passion Conferences. sixstepsrecords’ artists include Chris Tomlin (ADORE: Christmas Songs of Worship), Crowder (Neon Steeple), Matt Redman (Unbroken Praise), Christy Nockels (Let It Be Jesus), Kristian Stanfill (Mountains Move) and Passion (Passion: Salvation's Tide Is Rising). 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 Crowder
Website // www.crowdermusic.com

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

PEOPLE Magazine Exclusively Features Colton Dixon's Nashville Wedding

Nashville, Tenn. (January 15, 2016) — PEOPLE Magazine exclusively covered Colton Dixon's wedding to Annie Coggeshall in their latest issue, hitting newsstands today.

PEOPLE has been following the story since the engagement, bringing readers exclusive coverage including photos, ceremony and reception details, the style scoop and more. Click the images below to read about Colton and Annie's big day.

About Colton Dixon
Colton Dixon quickly became a household name in 2012 when he made it to the top seven on Season 11 of Fox's hit show American Idol, and his career has been on the fast track ever since. Dixon's 2013 debut, A Messenger, set the record for biggest first-week sales by a new solo Christian act, becoming the No. 1 selling album by a new Christian artist and the No. 9 best-selling album of 2013 in the Christian genre overall. In just a few short years, Dixon has already played live for more than 1 million fans, performing at festivals like Winter Jam and touring with acts such as Third Day, TobyMac and Casting Crowns. Colton Dixon has also been named the latest Steinway artist, following in the footsteps of legendary artists such as Harry Connick, Jr., Diana Krall and Billy Joel. Dixon's sophomore effort ANCHOR 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. In 2013, Dixon won a Dove Award for Best Rock/Contemporary Album Of The Year, along with two additional nominations. In 2015, ANCHOR was honored with the Dove Award for Rock/Contemporary Album of the Year. Dixon received back-to-back K-LOVE Fan Award nominations for Male Artist of the Year in 2014 and 2015. Dixon’s dual EPs Calm and Storm are available now.


Get Connected with Colton Dixon
Website // www.coltondixon.com

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Media Contact
Kirsten Grenier & Velvet Kelm
the media collective
kirsten@themcollective.com
velvet@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.themcollective.com

K-LOVE/AIR1 And Food for the Hungry Will Present TobyMac's HITS DEEP TOUR 2016

Multi-artist tour to feature Britt Nicole, Colton Dixon, Building 429, Capital Kings, Finding Favour and Hollyn

GRAMMY® winner wraps widely successful nationwide
THIS IS NOT A TEST TOUR

Nashville, Tenn. (January 15, 2016) - Known for his dynamic live show, six-time GRAMMY® winner TobyMac and K-LOVE/AIR1 will present the talent-packed, multi-artist "HITS DEEP TOUR," visiting over 25 markets in spring 2016. Leading the nationwide run alongside his DiverseCity Band, the multi-platinum selling artist will be joined by Britt Nicole, Colton Dixon, Building 429, Capital Kings, Finding Favour and Hollyn, promising a night of non-stop hit songs. Kicking off in Baton Rouge, La. on February 18, the "HITS DEEP TOUR" will run through April 10, ending in Moline, Ill. The tour’s theme and multi-artist package will undoubtedly make for some special moments on stage. For tickets and the most up to date tour information, click here.

Photo Credit: Rick Diamond/Getty Images for TobyMac

In support of his latest album, the GRAMMY® nominated THIS IS NOT A TEST, TobyMac recently wrapped his headlining nationwide "THIS IS NOT A TEST TOUR." The six-time GRAMMY® winner closed 2015 as the half-time performer at the 17th annual GoDaddy Bowl, broadcasted on ESPN.  THIS IS NOT A TEST debuted at No. 1 on the Christian Albums Chart, No. 4 on the Billboard Top 200 and No. 3 on the Digital Albums Chart, and boasted the No. 1 radio hit “Feel It." ESPN Music, FOX & Friends, HLN’s “Weekend Express,” ABC Radio, Billboard, FOX News, Patheos and more supported THIS IS NOT A TEST upon it’s release.


HITS DEEP TOUR Dates:
* All dates subject to change. Please click here for the most up to date tour information.

Feb. 18   Baton Rouge, LA
Feb. 19   Birmingham, AL
Feb. 20   Charlotte, NC
Feb. 23   Oklahoma City, OK
Feb. 25   Albuquerque, NM
Feb. 26   Phoenix, AZ
Feb. 27   Los Angeles, CA
Feb. 28   San Diego, CA
Mar. 3    Las Vegas, NV
Mar. 4    Reno, NV
Mar. 5    Fresno, CA
Mar. 6    Sacramento, CA
Mar. 10  Seattle, WA
Mar. 11   Portland, OR
Mar. 12   Boise, ID
Mar. 13   Eugene, OR
Mar. 15   Kennewick, WA
Mar. 16   Salt Lake City, UT
Mar. 18   Denver, CO
Mar. 19   Kansas City, MO
Mar. 31   San Antonio, TX
Apr. 1      Shreveport, LA
Apr. 2     Belton, TX
Apr. 3     El Paso, TX
Apr. 5     Lubbock, TX
Apr. 7     Wichita, KS
Apr. 8     Omaha, NE
Apr. 9     Milwaukee, WI
Apr. 10   Moline, IL


About TobyMac:
With more than 11 million units in career sales and a whopping six GRAMMY® Awards, TobyMac's career continues on the fast track. His most recent studio album, THIS IS NOT A TEST garnered two GRAMMY® nominations and a high marking debut at No. 4 on the Billboard Top 200. Each one of his previous five studio solo projects have achieved Gold certification, a first for an artist in the history of his label, Capitol Christian Music Group. Among those honored with Gold certification, EYE ON IT, which debuted atop the Billboard 200, only the third ever Christian album to do so. His live DVD, ALIVE & TRANSPORTED, is RIAA Certified platinum and received a GRAMMY® award. His sixth solo studio project THIS IS NOT A TEST is now available.
 

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Stay Connected with TobyMac:
Website // www.tobymac.com

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

Passion: Salvation's Tide Is Rising Debuts At No. 3 On Billboard Digital Albums Chart, No. 6 On Billboard Top Albums Chart

Album marks seventh Passion release to debut at No. 1 on  Billboard's Christian Albums Chart

Passion hit iTunes Top 3 just behind Adele and Justin Bieber

Nashville, Tenn. (January 13, 2016) — Passion: Salvation's Tide Is Rising skyrocketed up the charts after its January 1 digital release, debuting at No. 3 on Billboard's Digital Albums Chart and No. 6 on Billboard's Top Albums Chart. The album also debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's Christian Albums Chart, making it the seventh Passion release to do so.

Upon hitting iTunes, the album instantly shot to No. 1 on the Christian Albums Chart, quickly making its way to the Top 3 albums overall, just behind Adele and Justin Bieber.

Featuring Chris Tomlin, Crowder, Matt Redman, Christy Nockels, Kristian Stanfill, Melodie Malone, Brett Younker and Jimi Cravity, the worship anthems were introduced to more than 40,000 18-25 year olds at Passion 2016 conferences held in Houston and Atlanta arenas January 2-4.

During Passion 2016, students donated $811,813 to help construct a hospital in war-torn Syria. Once completed, the hospital will serve 12,000 women and children each year and will offer one of the few neonatal intensive care units in the country. Also making an impact locally, students filled bins with thousands of towels and socks - two of the most needed items at homeless shelters - upon arrival at each Passion 2016 location. This year, Atlanta’s City of Refuge and Houston’s Star of Hope received the needed items.

The Blaze reported the album's success, noting its spot "among the most popular music acts in the world." Critics are singing the album's praise calling it "defining music of 2016," (The Christian Beat) noting "these worship songs are here to stay." (Hollywood Jesus) 

Physical copies of Passion: Salvation's Tide Is Rising will be available January 29.


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 ten 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 (ADORE: Christmas Songs of Worship), Crowder (Neon Steeple), Matt Redman (Unbroken Praise), Christy Nockels (Let It Be Jesus), Kristian Stanfill (Mountains Move) and Passion (Passion: Salvation's Tide Is Rising). 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

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Media Contact
Kirsten Grenier
the media collective
kirsten@themcollective.com
615-591-7989
www.themcollective.com

The Afters Celebrate "Live On Forever" Music Video Premiere With Fans Via Live Chat

Nashville, Tenn. (January 12, 2016) — The Afters blew fans away this morning with the premiere of their highly-anticipated new music video for "Live On Forever." The band debuted the video for their latest single exclusively on their website and spent time hanging out with fans online in celebration. 

Produced by Nathan William, the visually stunning video captures the concept behind the single "Live On Forever," which points towards the hope and promise of heaven. “Losing the people that you love is one of the most painful things of this life," says lead singer Josh Havens, "but this life is not the end, and we were made for so much more than just this world."

Click below to check out the video.

Live On Forever" Official Music Video

The song continues to build momentum at radio climbing this week to top 3 at Hot AC, No. 11 on the National Christian Audience chart, No. 13 at AC Monitored and No. 10 on the AC Indicator chart.

"Live On Forever" is now available through iTunes, Amazon and Spotify and is the title track from the band's forthcoming fifth studio album, set to release later this spring.


About The Afters
Texas-based, four-piece band The Afters were propelled into the national spotlight with their INO/Sony Music Label Group debut I Wish We All Could Win. The project spawned the swirling, melodic hit “Beautiful Love,” earning the band an enthusiastic following when the song was selected as the theme track for MTV’s “8th and Ocean.” “Beautiful Love” was also the most downloaded track of 2006 on the iTunes ® Inspirational charts and garnered the band an mtvU award. The Afters’ sophomore release Never Going Back To OK (INO/Columbia Records) debuted in the Top 50 on the Billboard Top 200, and proved to be a sensation on the silver screen with “Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC), “Dr. Phil,” “Army Wives” (Lifetime) and “Rachael Ray.” The band’s third record Light Up the Sky bolstered two No. 1 radio hits, as well as placements on “The Biggest Loser” (NBC) and “You Deserve It” (ABC). A slew of media including Rolling Stone, Seventeen.com, E! News Live, TV Guide, Premiere Radio and more also picked up on covering The Afters. The band released its fourth studio album, Life Is Beautiful in April 2013 via Fair Trade and is currently in the studio recording their fifth studio album, Live On Forever, set to debut spring of 2016.


Get Connected With The Afters:
Website // www.theafters.com

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Kirsten Grenier
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