Phil Wickham’s Anticipated Children Of God To Debut April 22

Nashville, Tenn. (March 1, 2016) - Phil Wickham's highly anticipated new full length album Children Of God will debut on April 22, 2016. Marking his first LP in three years, Children Of God comes on the heels of the impactful single "This Is Amazing Grace," which was certified RIAA Gold and named BMI’s Christian Song of the Year as it topped radio charts. This powerful anthem was recently recognized as the most-sung worship song in the North American church by Christian Copyright Licensing International (CCLI). Children Of God is filled with songs sure to follow in those footsteps and become new worship favorites. Heralded by the single "Your Love Awakens Me," the pre-order of the new album is available now on PhilWickham.com and on iTunes and Amazon Music March 11th.

Laboring for a year to craft his newest release, Wickham shares of the deeply personal story and intention behind the record. "A year and a half ago I lost my voice and was forced to have surgery on my vocal chords with the risk of not being able to sing professionally again. During the difficulty of that season, God spoke the simple yet massive truth into my heart that He loves me. That He loves us. That we are first and foremost His children. That whatever may come our way we are His children. That whatever we may be faced with, we are His. Many of these songs were written out of this newfound sense of identity."

Wickham has been traversing across the country on tour, most recently joining Newsboys, Jeremy Camp, Mandisa and more on The Rock and Worship Roadshow 2016, presented by Compassion International. For the latest tour information, click here.

About Phil Wickham:
Phil Wickham is, at his core, a humble and sincere artist who writes songs and worships God using the medium of music. It is with that brush that he paints images of a loving and creative God across the canvases of listeners’ hearts and minds. The evidence of this gift has been apparent on all of his critically acclaimed efforts: Phil Wickham (2006), Cannons (2007),
Heaven & Earth (2009), Response (2011) and The Ascension (2013), which debuted at No. 2 on the SoundScan Christian Albums Chart and in the Top 40 on the Billboard 200. His Gold-certified single “This Is Amazing Grace” gave Wickham his first career No. 1, holding the top spot on Billboard’s National Christian Audience Chart for 13 consecutive weeks. The honors continued as the single was named Billboard’s 2014 No. 1 Christian Airplay Song of the year and BMI's 2015 Christian Song of the Year. In addition to its success at radio, the song has become a beloved anthem in the modern church, increasing Wickham’s recognition as a gifted artist and songwriter with a true heart of worship. His newest, Children Of God, will be unveiled on April 22.

Track Listing:
"Doxology Amen"
"Better Than Life"
"Your Love Awakens Me"
"Secret Place" (feat. Madison Cunningham)
"Wide Awake"
"My All In All"
"Starmaker (Above The Earth)"
"Children Of God"
"Stand In Awe"
"Body Mind & Soul"
"As It Is In Heaven"
"Spirit Of God"

Stay Connected with Phil Wickham:
Website // www.philwickham.com

# # #

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

Citizen Way Announces Sophomore Album 2.0, Set To Release March 11

Single "When I'm With You" already playing on almost 40 stations

Band traveling on The Rock & Worship Roadshow tour alongside Newsboys, Jeremy Camp, Mandisa and more

Nashville, Tenn. (February 25, 2016) — Citizen Way has announced the upcoming release of their highly-anticipated sophomore album 2.0, available March 11.

Fans have been eagerly awaiting new music from the group since their 2013 debut, Love Is The Evidence, which produced radio hits such as "How Sweet The Sound," "Should've Been Me," “Nothing Ever” and “Evidence.” Tireless road warriors, Citizen Way has toured with MercyMe, Big Daddy Weave and Sanctus Real among others. 2.0 is the byproduct of the change, growth and transitions the band has since experienced.

"Sharing this record with a friend is an easy way to share the gospel," Citizen Way members shared. "These songs are anthems for reigniting your faith in Jesus by equipping you with His Word. We pray that it moves you to walk with Him in a new way. This record sounds best when you sing along loudly!"

Fans can get a taste of what to expect from the album with the first single "When I'm With You" already on almost 40 stations, including K-LOVE, SiriusXM, WCSG in Grand Rapids and KJNW in Kansas City.

"'When I'm With You' for me is the song about how I coped with the miscarriage of our son Jeremiah," Lead Singer Ben Calhoun shared. "Psalm 34:18 says 'The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.' I am living proof that that verse is absolutely true. Jesus met us where we were, and He hurt and healed with us. I know He will use this song to do the same for you."

Citizen Way is currently out on The Rock & Worship Roadshow alongside Newsboys, Jeremy Camp, Mandisa and more. The tour will run through March, hitting almost 30 cities across the US. Click here for additional dates and information.
 

2.0 Track Listing
1. Elevated
2. Rivals
3. When I’m With You
4. I Will
5. Bigger
6. Revival
7. Set It On Fire
8. On My Side
9. Just Hold On
10. All My Cares
11. Bulletproof

About Citizen Way
Citizen Way broke through the music scene in 2013 with their powerful debut album Love Is The Evidence. The band quickly drew in a devoted fan base as their impactful hits “Should’ve Been Me” and "How Sweet The Sound" took Christian radio by storm. The band continues to make an impact both on and off the air as they've toured the country alongside acts like MercyMe and Big Daddy Weave. The group is currently out on The Rock & Worship Roadshow with Newsboys, Mandisa, Jeremy Camp and more. Citizen Way's highly-anticipated sophomore album 2.0 is set to release March 11, 2016.

Get Connected With Citizen Way
Website: citizenwaymusic.com

###

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

Chris Tomlin Releases Music Video For "Good Good Father" As Single Hits No. 1 On Billboard Christian Airplay Chart And MediaBase Christian Audience Chart

Nashville, Tenn. (February 24, 2016) — The official music video for GRAMMY® Award Winner Chris Tomlin's hit single "Good Good Father" debuted last week, following the massive success of the single after its October release. The video features Pat Barrett of Housefires, who wrote the beloved song along with Tony Brown.

Tomlin's "Good Good Father" instantly shot to No. 1 on the iTunes Christian Songs Chart, and it hasn't lost momentum since. The single has spent 11 weeks at No. 1 on Billboard's Christian Digital Songs Chart, four weeks at No. 1 on Billboard's Hot Christian Songs Chart and recently hit the No. 1 spots on Billboard's Christian Airplay and the MediaBase Christian Audience Charts. Watch the official video below.

About Chris Tomlin
With ten albums, 13 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 likely the most often sung artist anywhere, Tomlin consistently has several songs in the top 20 of the Top 100 CCLI songs. 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, becoming one of the fastest rising modern day hymns in CCLI chart history. In addition to having sold more than 7 million albums and over 8.9 million digital tracks, Tomlin made history as his No. 1 single “Jesus Messiah” (Hello Love) garnered 97 adds at radio, making it the biggest ever add date in Christian radio history. Tomlin recently broke the record for most top tens in the history of Billboard's Hot Christian Songs chart. In the midst of his record-breaking success, Tomlin continues touring and leading at Passion Conference gatherings across the US and worldwide, including his recent Worship Night In America events, which sold out NYC’s Madison Square Garden, Denver’s Red Rocks and Sacramento’s Sleep Train Arena. 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 continues to produce chart-topping singles. ADORE: Christmas Songs of Worship released last fall, debuting at No. 1 on Billboard's Holiday Albums Chart.


Get Connected with Chris Tomlin
Website // http://www.christomlin.com
Spotify // https://play.spotify.com/artist/6pRi6EIPXz4QJEOEsBaA0m

###

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

Food for the Hungry Announces Talent-Packed 2016 Nationwide Tour Partnerships

Tours include TobyMac's "HITS DEEP TOUR," Lecrae's "Higher Learning Tour," Matt and Lauren Chandler's "Mingling of Souls Simulcast" and multiple Third Day Tours

Nashville, Tenn. (February 22, 2016) - The international relief and development organization Food for the Hungry will partner with TobyMac ("HITS DEEP TOUR"), Lecrae ("Higher Learning Tour"), Matt and Lauren Chandler ("Mingling of Souls Simulcast") and multiple Third Day ("The Lead Us Back Tour" and "SCC3D Tour") on their upcoming 2016 tours to support the cause of ending all forms of human poverty. By collaborating on the tours, Food for the Hungry will have the opportunity to share their mission to thousands, making an impact in the lives of many. 

By providing life-changing resources such as clean water, medical aid, food, education, vocational training, spiritual development and hope, Food for the Hungry aims to serve the 1.4 billion people living in poverty around the world. Working in over 20 countries around the globe, Food for the Hungry actively partners with churches, leaders and families to build transformational relationships, usher justice and renew communities so God’s purpose is revealed in each person they serve. 

February 18, TobyMac kicked off his "HITS DEEP TOUR," presented by K-LOVE/AIR 1 and Food for the Hungry, in Baton Rouge, LA alongside Britt Nicole, Colton Dixon, Building 429, Capital Kings, Finding Favour and Hollyn. Hitting 26 markets from February through April, Food for the Hungry will attend every concert date in order to connect more sponsors with children through their organization.

Food for the Hungry is partnering with Lecrae this spring as he launches the "Higher Learning Tour," bringing his dynamic live show primarily to college campuses across the U.S. The focus of Food for the Hungry's partnership with Lecrae is in Uganda. By focusing on one area, Lecrae hopes his fans can make a noticeable change in these communities by sponsoring children in some of the most vulnerable communities in the world. "Being unashamed is being willing to go to the hard places, being willing to do the hard things," shares the GRAMMY® winner. "That's why we're here."

Matt and Lauren Chandler's "Mingling of Souls Simulcast" will take place February 19 and 20 as a one-time event in Jacksonville, available for online audiences as well. Mingling of Souls is a conference discovering God's good design for love, marriage, sex and redemption. Very intentionally, Chandler chose to focus on Food for the Hungry's work in the Philippines whereprogramming proactively prevents child sexual abuse and trafficking, an epidemic in the Philippines. Last year, Mingling of Souls was able to gather hundreds of new child sponsors during only five events.

Longtime supporters Third Day are continuing to advocate Food for the Hungry's humanitarian efforts. The multiple GRAMMY® winners are currently embarking on "The Lead Us Back Tour" with Brandon Heath before hitting the road with Steven Curtis Chapman on the "SCC3D Tour" starting in April.

“Food for the Hungry is most excited about this upcoming year in the Artist Program," says Daniel C White, Food for the Hungry's Director of Artist & Speaker Relations. "We’ve had an amazing past few years in child sponsorship growth, yet this year has plans to surpass all others. We’re honored to have strong relationships with artist partners such as TobyMac, Third Day, Lecrae, Matt and Lauren Chandler, amongst many others. There’s nothing more exciting to us than when influential leaders in music and entertainment use their platforms to help the most vulnerable people of the world.”

Historically partnering with various artists in the music industry, Food for the Hungry's Artist Program partners include Chonda Pierce, Trip Lee, AIR1, Meg Meeker, 7eventh Time Down, Finding Favour, All Things New, Andrew Greer, VOTA, Carrolton, Audio Adrenaline, Cindy Morgan, Hawk Nelson, High Valley, Jamie Grace, The Afters and more.

About Food for the Hungry
Founded in 1971, Food for the Hungry provides emergency relief and long-term development programs with operations in more than 20 countries, seeking to end all forms of human poverty. Using solutions that are innovative and community-specific to the complex view of poverty, Food for the Hungry contributes to community-owned transformations that empower children, families and communities to invest in their own development.

Get Connected With Food for the Hungry
Website // www.fh.org

###

Media Contact
Velvet Kelm & Courtney Hyder
velvet@themcollective.com
courtney@themcollective.com
615-591-7989
www.themcollective.com

Celebrity Photographer Jeremy Cowart Ignites The Internet, Inspiring With "Nothing Is Impossible" Message In Personal Story Video

With over 1 million views, personal story to success shatters limitations and serves as wake up call for others, inspiring people to "dream again"

Celebrities such as Sophia Bush, Florida Georgia Line, Jason Kennedy, Kimberly Williams-Paisley and more share impactful video

Nashville, Tenn. (February 22, 2016) — Celebrity photographer Jeremy Cowart is inspiring people everywhere with the recent release of his "I'm Possible" video. Already surpassing 1 million views, Cowart shares his own personal story, reminding others that no dream is too big.

Cowart is recognized as an accomplished entrepreneur and "the most influential photographer on the internet" (Huffington Post), but his success follows a long journey of self-doubt and an “I can’t” mentality growing up. The video details the struggles - poor grades, being fired, the loss of his brother - that have led him to where he is now. Today, the acclaimed celebrity photographer has accomplished things he never believed possible, such as launching the impactful Help-Portrait movement, founding See University to share his extensive photography expertise and much more. 

Cowart serves as an example for others, challenging viewers to overcome limitations and self-doubt, empowering them to change the world. At the end of the talk, Cowart reveals groundbreaking news with viewers. To find out the big plans he has in store for the city of Nashville (and beyond), watch the video in its entirety below.

Since its release, the "inspirational" and "powerful" video has been viewed more than 1 million times, with thousands of shares and comments on Facebook and Twitter. People are calling it a "wake up call," saying "Thanks for reminding me to start dreaming again." Celebrities such as Sophia Bush, Florida Georgia Line, Jason Kennedy, Kimberly Williams-Paisley and more are joining in the social conversation.

A resident of Nashville, Tenn., Cowart will be featured in an upcoming episode of ABC's Nashville. To keep up with Cowart and his upcoming endeavors, visit jeremycowart.com.

About Jeremy Cowart
Named one of the most influential photographers on the web, Jeremy Cowart has taken portraits of many familiar names such as Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, Tim Tebow, The Kardashians, Sting, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Heidi Klum, Emma Stone and Ryan Seacrest, just to name a few. With clients such as ABC, FOX, A&E, Discovery Channel, ESPN, People and more, his work has been published in outlets such as Rolling Stone, ESPN Magazine, USA Today and The New York Times. Knowing the value that a photograph can have in just one person’s life, Cowart founded Help-Portrait, a worldwide movement of photographers using their time, equipment, and expertise to give back to those less fortunate. Cowart also launched See University to help share his knowledge with others through online courses. 

Get Connected With Jeremy Cowart // jeremycowart.com

Media Contact
the media collective
Courtney Hyder & Kirsten Grenier
courtney@themcollective.com
kirsten@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.themcollective.com

John Sanders LLC And K-LOVE Fan Awards Honored With EMMY® Nomination

30th Annual Midsouth Regional EMMY® Awards to be awarded on February 27

Memphis, Tenn. (February 22, 2016) - K-LOVE Radio Network along with Memphis Based Company John Sanders LLC has garnered distinguished EMMY® nominations in advance of this year’s 30th Annual Midsouth Regional EMMY® Awards, given by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS). Nominees will be honored during a live telecast from the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum on February 27, 2016. NATAS is a non-profit, professional organization dedicated to fostering excellence in television. The academy has 19 chapters with 15,000 members nationwide. The Nashville/Midsouth Region encompasses the States of North Carolina (except Asheville) and Tennessee, and northern Alabama.

"John Sanders dreams big, I mean Everest BIG and it doesn't stop there, he goes out there and makes it happen.....Boom!" shares seven-time GRAMMY® winner TobyMac.

Among the nominations included is the K-LOVE Fan Awards, up for Special Event Coverage, Lighting and Set Design. The K-LOVE Fan Awards co-created by John Sanders, David Pierce (Chief Creative Officer for K-LOVE & Air 1 Radio) and Steve Strout will take place this year live from Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry on June 5 with Elisabeth Hasslebeck and Matthew West as co-hosts. Coca-Cola Consolidated is serving as the presenting sponsor of this year's awards.

“We are honored with these nominations and it’s a pleasure to partner with K-LOVE in vision and creativity of this event, and to see it be totally embraced by Christian Music Fans nationwide as well as the Nashville music community!" says Sanders.


About John Sanders LLC:
Helmed by industry veteran John Sanders, EMMY® nominated John Sanders LLC includes the K-LOVE Fan Awards, Premier Experience, Camp Electric and Pro Lessons dot com. Operating from Memphis, Tenn., Sanders has served artists, entertainers and fans through such entities as the K-LOVE Fan Awards, K-LOVE Cruise, The Duck Dynasty Cruise, The Property Brothers Cruise, The Music Boat and more. Sanders co-owns the annual Camp Electric, providing unparalleled coaching for musicians ages 13-19.

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. Coca-Cola Consolidated will be a presenting sponsor for the 2016 K-LOVE Fan Awards. CCBCC is the nation's largest Coca-Cola bottler. Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Coca-Cola Consolidated makes, sells and distributes Coca-Cola products along with other unique beverages, carrying more than 250 brands and selling more than 178 million cases in 2015. Previous hosts for the K-LOVE Fan Awards 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 an EMMY® nominated 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.

Use of the trademarks and service marks of The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (“NATAS”), including the mark EMMY®, requires the prior express written permission of the National Television Academy.
 

# # #

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

Rend Collective Prepares To Kick Off As Family We Go Headlining Tour, Featuring Special Guest Urban Rescue

Dates begin to sell out across U.S., U.K. and Ireland

Rend Collective joins Billboard Music Award winners
Hillsong UNITED on Empires tour

Nashville, Tenn. (February 22, 2016) — For Irish worship band Rend Collective, As Family We Go is more of a mantra than an album title as the five-piece group gears up to hit the road for their 48-city As Family We Go Headlining Tour. With spouses and children along for the journey, the close-knit band will kick off the tour February 25 in Eugene, OR. with dates across the U.S., U.K. and Ireland. 

Featuring special guest Urban Rescue, the tour is already seeing sold out dates. The band is no stranger to the stage, having toured alongside acts such as Chris Tomlin, MercyMe and currently, Hillsong UNITED on the Empires Tour. The As Family We Go Tour is Rend Collective's second headlining tour, with their 2014 The Art Of Celebration Tour hitting 42 cities, with 29 sold-out dates.

The tour is in support of their latest project, As Family We Go. Released last fall, the album hit No. 19 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 9 on UK’s Digital Albums Chart, making it the highest debut for a Christian album in the UK in almost 20 years and the highest ever Christian album debut on the UK Digital Albums Chart. As Family We Go also hit the No. 1 spot on the iTunes Christian albums chart in the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia and New Zealand and landed in the top ten albums overall in seven countries including the U.S., U.K. and Canada. Their current single from the album "Joy Of The Lord" is resonating with listeners, recently hitting the top 20 on the AC Indicator chart at radio.

For additional tour information, visit: rendcollective.com/tour.

About Rend Collective
Hailing from a small town off the coast of Northern Ireland, Rend Collective (Gareth Gilkeson, Chris Llewellyn, Ali Gilkeson, Patrick Thompson and Stephen Mitchell) wants to be known as a celebration band, worshiping for God’s glory and fame. Since the release of their debut album, Organic Family Hymnal, the group’s authentic and energetic style of worship has attracted an international audience, with career sales of more than 300,000 albums. The group saw early success as their first ever single “Build Your Kingdom Here,” peaked at No. 12 on the National Christian Audience Chart. Their 2014 release The Art of Celebration, charted at No. 1 on the Billboard Christian Albums Chart within the first week of its release. Known for their electric, lively worship, the band has been a part of several major tours with top artists such as Chris Tomlin, Hillsong UNITED, MercyMe, Kari Jobe and more. The group's latest album As Family We Go, hit the No. 1 spot on the iTunes Christian albums chart in the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia and New Zealand and landed in the top ten albums overall in seven countries including the U.S., U.K. and Canada. Rend Collective is preparing to kick off their As Family We Go headlining tour with dates across the U.S., U.K. and Ireland.

Get Connected With Rend Collective
Website: rendcollective.com
Spotify: tinyurl.com/rendcollectivespotify
Apple Music: smarturl.it/AsFamilyWeGoAPL 
Google Play: play.google.com/store/music/artist/Rend_Collective?id=Awch4mrsu4hi5utotmvhpytjiqq
 

###

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

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

###

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

# # # 

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

###

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

###

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

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

###

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

###

Media Contact
Kirsten Grenier
the media collective
kirsten@themcollective.com
615.591.7989
www.themcollective.com

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
www.themcollective.com

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

###
 

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

###

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

###
 

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.
 

# # # 

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