ICYMI: New York Times Best-Selling Author, Annie F. Downs, Appears on GMA 3: What You Need to Know

Nashville, TN....3/23/21 - New York Times best-selling author, Annie F. Downs appeared on GMA 3 program yesterday, sharing why it's so important to bring fun back into our lives after a tumultuous 2020. Referring to content from her latest book, That Sounds Fun, Downs shared tips with viewers about managing expectations, going back to favorite childhood memories, and trying something new as ways to incorporate some fun. To catch the interview, please CLICK HERE.

It has been a busy season for Downs following the release of of her New York Times bestseller That Sounds Fun. In addition to hosting her popular "That Sounds Fun" podcast, which has received over 44 million downloads, her That Sounds Fun Podcast Network is continuing its significant growth and living up to its promise to be an amusement park of podcasts with an aim to entertain, impact, help, and bless you and the people you love. To find out more on the network overall, you can visit their new website here.

Over the past several weeks, Downs has run the podcast, radio and TV circuit, showing up on The 700 Club, The Doctors, CNN New Day, Delilah's Love Somebody Podcast, Mallory Ervin's Living Fully podcast, and CBN Studio 5, with upcoming appearances on Hallmark Channel's Home & Family and more.

In That Sounds Fun, Downs offers an irresistible invitation to understand the meaning of fun, to embrace it and chase it, and to figure out what, exactly, sounds fun to you – then do it! Exploring some research and sharing some thoughts about why fun matters, she shows you how to find, experience, and multiply your fun. With her signature storytelling style and whimsical vulnerability, Annie F. Downs is the friend we all need to guide us back to staying true to ourselves and finding the fun we need.

About Annie:

Annie F. Downs is a New York Times best-selling author, sought-after speaker, and successful podcast host based in Nashville, Tennessee. Engaging and honest, she makes readers and listeners alike feel as if they’ve been long-time friends. Founder of the That Sounds Fun Network—which includes her aptly named flagship show, That Sounds Fun—and author of multiple bestselling books like 100 Days to Brave, Remember God, and That Sounds Fun, Annie shoots straight and doesn’t shy away from the tough topics. But she always finds her way back to the truth that God is good and that life is a gift. Annie is a huge fan of laughing with friends, confetti, soccer, and boiled peanuts (preferably from a back-roads Georgia gas station). Read more at anniefdowns.com and find her (embarrassingly easily) all over the internet at @anniefdowns.

Get Connected with Annie F. Downs:

Website
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram

Media Collective Contact:

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

SKILLET ANNOUNCES SPRING 2021 HEADLINE TOUR DATES

MULTI-PLATINUM ROCKERS SKILLET ANNOUNCE SPRING 2021 HEADLINE TOUR DATES

BAND TO BE JOINED BY JORDAN FELIZ + COLTON DIXON FOR 21 DATES THIS SPRING ON THE AWAKENING EVENTS DRIVE-IN THEATER TOUR

SKILLET, one of the best-selling rock bands of the 21st century who have garnered two Grammy nominations and are a member of the Pandora Billionaires Club, have announced Spring 2021 tour dates.

Building on the previous success of the Drive-In Theater Tour, Awakening Events has confirmed the fourth package of the 2021 series. Skillet, along with Jordan Feliz and Colton Dixon, will embark on a 21-city tour beginning April 22 in Mitchell, IN and wrapping up on May 23 in Chaffee, MO. The tour will make stops in Alabama, Virginia, Florida, South Carolina, Arkansas, and more.

All dates on the Drive-In Theater Tour will comply with local guidelines related to COVID-19. Tickets for the tour will again be sold by the car load* (up to 6 people per car) and will be available for purchase at 12pm ET Friday, March 12. A full list of cities, dates, and tickets for the tour is available here. The dates are also posted below.

*Please note that some dates on the tour will NOT be at a drive-in theater. In these shows, billed as "An Evening Under The Stars," seating may be sold in pods or other socially distanced configurations. Please see event listings for full details.

The Drive-In Theater Tour, supported by K-Love Radio, AiR1 Radio, and Food for the Hungry, is exclusively produced by Awakening Events.

Additionally, Skillet will host a live Instagram chat on Friday, March 12 at 2pm EST to catch up with fans and answer any questions they may have.

Skillet released their Deluxe project, Victorious: The Aftermath (Atlantic) last October, a collection that features all twelve original tracks from Victorious, plus eight additional tunes, including two brand new unreleased songs, and 5 reimagined songs.

Last November the band released their second graphic novel, Eden II: The Aftermath, once again pairing Random Shock Studios with Skillet frontman John Cooper and his Eden artist Chris Hunt. Skillet's return to the post-apocalyptic world of Eden, as established in their 2019 graphic novel debut of the same name, is an exciting one for the band as well as their publisher, Z2 Comics. The original book became their best-selling graphic novel of all time. According to Cooper, Aftermath promises "more action, more surprises, more suspense."

SKILLET ON TOUR:
WITH JORDAN FELIZ + COLTON DIXON:
4/22 — Mitchell, IN — Holiday Drive-In
4/23 — Knox, IN — Melody Drive-In Theatre
4/24 — Middle Point, OH — Van-Del Drive-In
4/25 — Versailles, IN — Bel-Air Drive-In
4/29 — Albertville, AL — Sand Mountain Amphitheater
4/30 — Sparta, TN — Sparta Drive-in
5/1 — Marion, VA — Park Place Drive In Theater
5/2 — Athens, TN — Swingin' Midway Drive-in
5/4 — Beaufort, SC — Highway 21 Drive-in
5/5 — Albemarle, NC — Badin Road Drive-In
5/6 — Roanoke Rapids, NC — I-95 Drive-In at Roanoke Rapids Theatre
5/8 — Destin, FL— Mattie Kelly Cultural Arts Village
5/13 — Guin, AL — Blue Moon Drive-In
5/14—Bald Knob, AR — Grayson Farms Amphitheater
5/15—Marshall, AR — Kenda Drive-In Theater
5/16 — Fayetteville, AR — 112 Drive-In
5/18 — Carthage, MO — 66 Drive-In
5/19 — Wichita, KS — Starlite Drive-In
5/20 — Tulsa, OK — Admiral Twin
5/22 — Cadet, MO — Starlite Drive-In
5/23 — Chaffee, MO — Rock 'N' Roll Drive-In

ABOUT SKILLET:
On Victorious, one of the best-selling rock bands of the 21st century, two-time GRAMMY® Award-nominated, Pandora Billionaires Club recipients, multiplatinum Wisconsin quartet SKILLET—John Cooper [lead vocals/bass], Korey Cooper [guitar/keys], Jen Ledger [drums/vocals], and Seth Morrison [lead guitar]—write the soundtrack to triumph. An undying spirit humbly asserted and affirmed the band as one of this generation’s most successful rock acts. However, as all classic underdog stories do, it happened quietly under the radar. By 2019, they not only garnered a pair of GRAMMY® Award nods and sold over 12 million albums worldwide, but they also took home a Billboard Music Award for the double-platinum Awake. Its breakout single “Monster” remains “one of the most-streamed rock songs of all-time” with over 3 Billion global audio streams. 2016’s Unleashed bowed at #3 on the Billboard Top 200. Going #1 on Rock Radio, the lead single “Feel Invincible” cracked 150 million global audio streams and went platinum. Meanwhile, the gold-certified Unleashed became their fourth consecutive album to receive either a gold, platinum, or double-platinum status. To date, nine original tunes earned RIAA recognition in tandem with high-profile syncs by everyone from WWE and Marvel to ESPN and NFL. Between selling out arenas on four continents, the group performed on CONAN and graced the pages of USA Today and The New York Times, Skillet debuted their first graphic novel, EDEN: A Skillet Graphic Novel with Z2 Comics, which has become the publisher’s best-selling book of all time.

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Get Connected with Skillet:
Website: www.skillet.com
Facebook: @Skillet
Twitter, TikTok & Instagram: @skilletmusic

Media Collective Contact:

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

New York Times Best-Selling Author and Podcaster Annie F. Downs' That Sounds Fun Network Adds Two New Podcasts

New York Times Best-Selling Author and Podcaster Annie F. Downs' That Sounds Fun Network Adds Two New Podcasts

WE'RE GOING THERE with Bianca Olthoff Launched February 18;

Carlos Whittaker's HUMAN HOPE Launches Today, March 4

NASHVILLE, TN.... (March 4, 2021) - Since its launch last May, New York Times best-selling author and podcaster Annie F. Downs' That Sounds Fun Podcast Network is continuing its significant growth. Currently home to seven shows, including her own "That Sounds Fun" podcast, which has over 44 million downloads, Downs' Network is living up to its promise to be an amusement park of podcasts with an aim to entertain, impact, help, and bless you and the people you love. To find out more on the network overall, you can visit their new website here.

Recently launched on February 18, We're Going There with Bianca Olthoff invites guests to discuss relevant topics affecting all aspects of our lives. From relationships to race relations, faith to fashion, the conversations will leave you with practical tips, fun ways to talk about tough topics, and stories with amazing people to impact your life. No topic is off the table and faith will always be at the forefront of the conversation. For more information, follow along on social media @biancaolthoff or visit www.BiancaOlthoff.com.

Today, March 4 sees the debut of Human Hope with Carlos Whittaker. In a time where humanity is desperate to find hope, Carlos leads us in conversations that bring us just that. From fun discussions about everyday joy to polarizing and challenging topics, Carlos shows even the most calloused heart that there is still hope in humanity. For more on Carlos and his books visit CarlosWhittaker.com.

With over 400,000 downloads each week of her "That Sounds Fun" podcast, the new network of course includes Downs' own podcast, as well as "Annie and Eddie Keep Talking." With an active, engaged, and extremely loyal audience, Downs' network of influence includes top-tier leaders in film, music, sports, ministry, and publishing, with support from such well-known names as Tim Tebow, Danielle Walker and Samantha Ponder.

To interview one of the hosts from the That Sounds Fun Network, or if you want to be on one of the That Sounds Fun Network shows, please email guests@thatsoundsfunnetwork.com.

Get Connected with Annie F. Downs:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram

Annie F. Downs is a New York Times bestselling author, sought-after speaker, and successful podcast host based in Nashville, Tennessee. Engaging and honest, she makes readers and listeners alike feel as if they’ve been long-time friends. Founder of the That Sounds Fun Podcast Network—which includes her aptly named flagship show, "That Sounds Fun"—and author of multiple bestselling books like 100 Days to Brave, Remember God, and That Sounds Fun. Annie shoots straight and doesn’t shy away from the tough topics. But she always finds her way back to the truth that God is good and that life is a gift. Annie is a huge fan of laughing with friends, confetti, soccer, and boiled peanuts (preferably from a back-roads Georgia gas station). Read more at anniefdowns.com and find her (embarrassingly easily) all over the internet at @anniefdowns.

Carlos Whittaker is a self proclaimed “Hope Dealer” who spends the majority of his time telling stories on stages and phone screens across the world that lead people towards action. He’s a People's Choice Award winner and the author of three books, Moment Maker, Kill The Spider, & Enter Wild which all lead people towards freedom in some way, shape, or form. Carlos lives with his wife, three kids, and five chickens in Nashville, TN. You can find out more about Carlos and his work at www.CarlosWhittaker.com or @loswhit on Instagram.

Bianca Juarez Olthoff is a bible-teaching, word-slanging MexiRican who is passionate about raising up a generation of people passionate about Jesus Christ. As an author and speaker, she knows the power of words and wields them wisely. As a church planter (www.tfhoc.org) and leader, she is committed to proclaiming the gospel domestically and internationally. For more information, follow along on social media @biancaolthoff or visit www.BiancaOlthoff.com.

Media Collective Contact:

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

HARRY CONNICK JR SET TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM ALONE WITH MY FAITH ON MARCH 19th

HARRY CONNICK JR SET TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM

ALONE WITH MY FAITH

ON MARCH 19th

Listen Here

WATCH the stunning first video “Amazing Grace” HERE
Artwork Available HERE

(February 12, 2021) – With the pandemic casting a long shadow in 2020, Grammy and Emmy Award winning multi-instrumentalist Harry Connick Jr retreated to his home studio during the lockdown and emerged with an album of new music. Long regarded as one of America’s finest vocalists and pianists, the sheer breadth of Connick’s talents has never been more on display than with the forthcoming album ALONE WITH MY FAITH to be released jointly by Universal Music’s Verve and Capitol CMG on March 19th. Connick wrote and arranged all of the songs, played every instrument, and sang every part. Both the album cover and the first video “Amazing Grace” were conceived and directed by Harry’s daughter Georgia Connick, available to view HERE. Harry shared his personal journey in creating this singular musical work in his liner notes, re-printed below.

HARRY CONNICK JR Personal Statement
In March 2020, right after news of the pandemic hit, when my tour was cancelled and I headed home for however long it would last, I decided to record some music. Not only because I wanted to, but because I needed to. With no tour dates in sight, and with everyone’s realities upended and futures uncertain, recording was what was necessary for me to help guide me through the uncharted odyssey in which we all unexpectedly found ourselves. I found myself alone (with my faith!) in my home studio, surrounded by instruments and gear, bursting with an abundance of ideas. I was able to go deep within myself as a musician and a man, uninterrupted by the normalcies of collaboration or human interaction. It was a sort of “musical isolation chamber”, a silent retreat, the silence only broken by the sound of my own voice, the instruments I played and the occasional microphone I inadvertently knocked over, as I’m not the most graceful recording engineer that ever lived!

Seven months later, after countless tracks and edits, I can say that it was not only the secluded nature of the recording process, but the content of the songs themselves that helped me through this strange period. In fact, this was the first time that I found this level of comfort, peace and truth throughout the process of making music. Because the lyrics are all about the spectrum of faith, I found myself interpreting them in real time - they were allowing me to heal as much as I wanted them to help heal others. I didn't have to pretend or put myself in another place or time, as one often does as a singer or actor.

Besides the familiar, traditional songs, I wrote and recorded new music that tells the story of my experience during the lockdown. I, like most of us, felt joy, sadness, doubt, conviction, melancholy and inspiration - all the emotions that faith, or lack thereof, can elicit. Even though many of the songs are Christian, my hope is that they will resonate with people of all faiths, as it gives me great comfort to know that faith is an immeasurably beautiful gift that, with its universal spirit, can help bring us together in the most arduous of times.

Some notes on the recording process...

I set up the mics and did all of the tracking.

I used Logic to track and edit. When I was playing an immovable instrument, like drums or organ, I used Logic Remote, with my iPad as the controller. I sang all of the lead and background vocals, as well as played each of the instruments. In addition to all of the acoustic instruments, I used many electric instruments - basses, guitars, synthesizers, etc. However, there are no “soft synths” on this recording - all synthesizers, keyboards and organs are real. No instruments were "in the box". After all of the edits were made and all of the tracks consolidated, I sent the files to my good friend, Tracey Freeman, to mix. A couple of weeks later, I rented an RV and drove to New Orleans to finish the mixing process with him at his home studio.

The album is available for pre-order HERE.

TRACK LIST (CD/DIGITAL)

1. Alone With My Faith

2. Because He Lives

3. Be Not Afraid

4. Benevolent Man

5. Amazing Grace

6. The Old Rugged Cross

7. How Great Thou Art

8. God And My Gospel

9. Old Time Religion

10. All These Miracles

11. Look Who I Found

12. Thank You For Waiting (For Me)

13. Panis Angelicus

TOBYMAC DROPS NEW SINGLE, MUSIC VIDEO FOR "HELP IS ON THE WAY (Maybe Midnight)" TODAY

SEVEN-TIME GRAMMY-WINNER TOBYMAC DROPS

NEW SINGLE, MUSIC VIDEO FOR "HELP IS ON THE

WAY (Maybe Midnight)" TODAY

HITS DEEP TOUR PAVES THE WAY FOR SAFE,

LIVE MUSIC

Nashville, TN... (February 19, 2021) - Seven-Time GRAMMY® winner TobyMac is dropping his first single of the year, in tandem with a music video for "Help Is On The Way (Maybe Midnight)" today. Produced and written by TobyMac and Micah Kuiper, the new track is available across all DSPs.

About the inspiration behind the new single TobyMac commented, "With a deeply broken heart after losing my firstborn son and stepping almost immediately into quarantine, everything was dark. I woke up one day after months in the valley to the Psalms. I read that 'God is rolling up His sleeves.' We are not forgotten. What a beautiful image. What a beautiful promise."

Directed by Eric Welch, the song's music video is one that TobyMac is excited about, remarking how he "loves music videos that are intriguing, leaving a sense of wonder." It also features a special guest, his son, Judah McKeehan.

TobyMac's HITS DEEP TOUR is continuing its trek across the country, paving the way for safe, live music once again. Along with his Diverse City band, Tauren Wells, We Are Messengers, Unspoken, Cochren & Co and Terrian the tour is hitting 16 U.S. markets.

For more information on HITS DEEP, safety precautions for tour dates, and all things TobyMac, please visit https://tobymac.com/tour.

About TobyMac:
With more than 12 million units in career sales and a whopping seven GRAMMY® Awards, TobyMac's career continues on the fast track. His 2015 RIAA Certified Gold studio album, THIS IS NOT A TEST garnered a GRAMMY® Award and Billboard Music Award nomination on top of debuting at No. 4 on the Billboard Top 200. Each of his six studio solo projects have achieved Gold certification, a first for any artist in the history of his label, Capitol Christian Music Group. Among those is 2012's EYE ON IT, which debuted atop the Billboard 200, only the third Christian album ever to do so. THE ELEMENTS, his awaited newest collection of music, is available now boasting "Everything," "Scars," "Edge of My Seat," "See The Light" and more alongside the chart-topper, RIAA Gold Certified "I just need U."

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Get Connected With TobyMac:
Website // www.tobymac.com
Facebook // www.facebook.com/tobymac
Twitter // www.twitter.com/tobymac
Instagram // www.instagram.com/tobymac
YouTube // www.youtube.com/TobyMacVEVO

Media Collective Contact:

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

NYT BEST-SELLER LIST WELCOMES ANNIE F. DOWNS

ANNIE F. DOWNS DEBUTS ON

NEW YORK TIMES BEST-SELLER LIST WITH LATEST BOOK,

THAT SOUNDS FUN

Nashville, TN...February 11, 2021 - Best-selling author, podcaster, who many call the "Expert on Fun," Annie F. Downs has made her debut on The New York Times bestseller list with her brand new book, That Sounds Fun. No. 6 on the Advice, How-To & Misc. list, Downs is in good company, joining other top authors like Sanjay Gupta, James Clear, Joanna Gaines and many more. Likewise, the book also appears on the Publishers Weekly Hardcover Non-Fiction List at No. 8 as well as hitting USA Today's bestseller list.

"I knew when I was writing this book, it was special," Downs remarked. "This is a topic that is rarely discussed but really important. I couldn't have known how timely it would be for our world. It feels like such an honor to write a book that is connecting with so many people in a real time of need."

In That Sounds Fun, Downs offers an irresistible invitation to understand the meaning of fun, to embrace it and chase it, and to figure out what, exactly, sounds fun to you – then do it! Exploring some research and sharing some thoughts about why fun matters, she shows you how to find, experience, and multiply your fun. With her signature storytelling style and whimsical vulnerability, Annie F. Downs is the friend we all need to guide us back to staying true to ourselves and finding the fun we need.

"When I started the podcast and began asking people what sounds fun to them, my eyes were opened," Downs remarked. "We undervalue and downplay fun and the place fun ought to have in our lives. We don't prioritize the fun things; the simple things. Finding fun changes things. Fun is medicine for a sickness we all have. Searching for fun doesn't mean you're not responsible, and valuing fun doesn't mean you're not grown up! It just means you realize there's something you've lost and are willing to go look for it."

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About Annie:
Annie F. Downs is a New York Times bestselling author, sought-after speaker, and successful podcast host based in Nashville, Tennessee. Engaging and honest, she makes readers and listeners alike feel as if they’ve been long-time friends. Founder of the That Sounds Fun Network—which includes her aptly named flagship show, That Sounds Fun—and author of multiple bestselling books like
100 Days to Brave, Remember God, and That Sounds Fun. Annie shoots straight and doesn’t shy away from the tough topics. But she always finds her way back to the truth that God is good and that life is a gift. Annie is a huge fan of laughing with friends, confetti, soccer, and boiled peanuts (preferably from a back-roads Georgia gas station). Read more at anniefdowns.com and find her (embarrassingly easily) all over the internet at @anniefdowns.

###

Get Connected with Annie F. Downs:

Website
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
YouTube

Media Collective Contact:

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

AMY GRANT TO PERFORM 'EVERY HEARTBEAT' ON ABC'S GOOD MORNING AMERICA FEBRUARY 10th

AMY GRANT TO PERFORM 

'EVERY HEARTBEAT' ON ABC'S GOOD MORNING

AMERICA FEBRUARY 10th

GRANT'S FIRST TELEVISION PERFORMANCE SINCE

OPEN HEART SURGERY ALSO COMMEMORATE'S

AMERICAN HEART MONTH AND THE LAUNCH OF

HER BLOCKBUSTER ALBUMHEART IN MOTION'S 30TH

ANNIVERSARY CAMPAIGN

Nashville, TN.... February 4, 2021 - Six-time GRAMMY-winner Amy Grant will perform her iconic hit, "Every Heartbeat," next Wednesday, February 10th on ABCs Good Morning America. Her first television performance since her open heart surgery last summer, it also commemorates American Heart Month as well as a year-long campaign celebrating the 30th anniversary of her blockbuster album,Heart In Motion. Grant gave her first interview post-surgery to the show's Robin Roberts last August, and will also speak with Roberts again live on the 10th.

“I enjoy any opportunity to be with Robin Roberts, virtually or otherwise," Grant says. "She feels familiar, like family, and her openness about her own health journey made me feel comfortable sharing mine for the first time last Fall. During the month of February, which celebrates and encourages everyone to take care of their own hearts, I’m thrilled to be performing "Every Heartbeat" on GMA for the first time since my open heart surgery, It’s going to be a great morning!”

Throughout 2021 Grant will be sharing memories, announcing special releases, sharing behind-the-scenes photos, fun playlists, new versions of timeless classics, social media blitzes, more interviews and exciting ways fans can join in on the celebration of "Heart in Motion's" 30th Anniversary. Starting next week, February 8-12 fun Heart in Motion E-cards have been created to send to loved ones for Valentine's Day. To keep up with all the fun, follow Grant's socials.

About Amy Grant:
Amy Grant's career spans more than 40 years and stretches from her roots in gospel into becoming an iconic pop star, songwriter, television personality and philanthropist. With three multi-platinum albums, six platinum albums and four gold albums, her total career album sales have exceeded 30 million and over 1 billion global streams. Grant’s chart success has been consistent throughout her career with six No. 1 hits, 10 Top 40 pop singles, 17 Top 40 Adult Contemporary tracks and multiple Contemporary Christian chart-toppers. In addition to her six GRAMMY® Awards, Grant has earned 26 Dove Awards (including four Artist of the Year Awards) and has been awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame as well as the Music City Walk of Fame. Conventional wisdom has it that Grant put Contemporary Christian Music on the map becoming the first Contemporary Christian artist to have a platinum record, the first to hit No. 1 on the Pop charts and the first to perform at the GRAMMY® Awards. With that, her legacy as one of the most influential artists of the past four decades is assured. In April of 2016, Grant celebrated the 25th anniversary of her iconic hit “Baby Baby” with a worldwide release of the song featuring pop sensation Tori Kelly. Tennessee Christmas released in late 2016, marked Grant’s first all-new holiday album in nearly 20 years. Last February, The T.J. Martell Foundation – the music industry’s leading nonprofit to fund innovative medical research focused on treatments and cures for cancer – honored Grant with the Tony Martell Outstanding Entertainment Achievement Award at their 2020 Honors Gala.

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Get Connected with Amy Grant:
Website // http://amygrant.com
Twitter //https://twitter.com/amygrant
Instagram // https://www.instagram.com/amygrantofficial/
Facebook // https://www.facebook.com/amygrant/

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

MercyMe to Perform First Show In a Year at Show'tel Amelia Island Event

MercyMe to Perform First Show In a Year at

Show'tel Amelia Island Event

Performance on March 5, 2021 to Create Safe, Intimate VIP Event at The Ritz-Carlton

Nashville, TN.... (January 22, 2020) - On Friday, March 5, 2021, GRAMMY® nominated, multiple American Music Award and Dove Award-winning bandMercyMe will perform their first show in a year. The Show'tel Amelia Island with MercyMe will allow fans to escape to the beachfront luxury of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island to enjoy an unforgettable live performance with the band from the comfort of their own private balcony with an ocean view looking out at the stage, or from a table on the lawn with an ocean view in front of the stage. The following video provides a visual rendering of what the experience will be like.

An extremely intimate VIP experience, the event is designed to exceed the expectations of the local health department with the goal to give everyone the experience of a lifetime without sacrificing anyone’s safety. Tickets for Show'tel Amelia Island with MercyMe are on sale now, and available HERE.

"We haven't done a show since March 8th of 2020," notes lead vocalist Bart Millard. "We've been anxious to get back on the road, so when this opportunity came to us to partner with The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island we thought it would be something that was unique, entertaining, and allows for social distancing. The live music industry has been hurting, but so have many more including the hotel industry. So, why not do a live concert at a hotel where your hotel room becomes your own private concert suite? What do you call that? Show'tel...get it? We are so excited to get back out with our fans for this unique experience."

About MercyMe:
It continues to be a landmark time for the multi-platinum selling MercyMe. A major motion picture based on the life of frontman Bart Millard who wrote the mega-hit song "I Can Only Imagine” after the loss of his father opened at a remarkable No. 3 at the box office on Mar. 16, 2018 (Lionsgate, Roadside Attractions). Carrying the same name, Millard’s first memoir also released this year followed by the unveiling of I Can Only Imagine – The Very Best Of MercyMe. MercyMe was named Top Christian Artist at the 2018 Billboard Music Awards, was the top winner at the fan-fueled K-LOVE Fan Awards including a win for Artist of the Year and in 2020 received their eighth American Music Award nod. The group is the 2018 GMA Dove Award Winner for Artist Of The Year, and since their debut in 2001, GRAMMY® nominated, multiple American Music Award and Dove Award winners MercyMe have sold more than 9 million units in CD, single and DVD sales, garnered more than 48 No. 1 multi-format radio singles and four consecutive mainstream radio hits with “I Can Only Imagine,” (No. 4 AC/Top 25 on Top 40/Hot AC). MercyMe made history in 2014 as “I Can Only Imagine” surpassed 2 million digital downloads, making it the first song in Christian music to go platinum and double-platinum in the digital domain. The album containing the hit, Almost There, recently received 4x platinum certification from the RIAA. In 2009, Billboard named MercyMe's "Word Of God Speak" the No. 1 Song of The Decade and the group the No. 1 Artist of the Decade in both the Christian Songs and Christian AC Songs categories, recognizing them as one of the industry's most notable talents. They have sold out venues throughout the US and Canada, including Radio City Music Hall, and have appeared on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Today Show, CBS This Morning, FOX New Channel's FOX & Friends, CNN, ABC News and in the pages of Entertainment Weekly, The New York Times, USA Today and more. MercyMe’s eighth studio album, the RIAA Certified Gold Welcome To The New, garnered two GRAMMY® nods and four radio hits. LIFER, their latest chart-topping, GMA Dove Award winning and GRAMMY® nominated album, includes the RIAA certified platinum, GRAMMY® nominated smash hit "Even If” which dominated the Billboard and Mediabase radio charts with a 19-week streak at No. 1.

Last summer MercyMe released "Hurry Up And Wait," the follow-up to their 48th #1 song "Almost Home," which held the top spot on Billboard's AC Indicator, Monitored, National Christian Audience, Mediabase Christian Audience and Christian AC charts, for a combined total of 17 weeks. Hailing from MercyMe’s next album coming spring 2021, the band released their most recent single, “Say I Won’t” in December 2020. Inspired by the story of Gary Miracle, who worked with the band for many years on the road and lost both arms and legs in January of 2020 after falling into septic shock, his story is one of strength and profound faith.

ABOUT THE RITZ-CARLTON, AMELIA ISLAND:
Poised on a bluff of dunes overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island finds its home in a destination of unspoiled coastal beauty and Southern Charm. Every room has an ocean or coastal view which can be enjoyed from a spacious private balcony. Guest rooms include King, Double Queens, Suites and Specialty Suites. Each room is appointed with luxury amenities, large screen TVs and world famous luxurious bedding.

The luxury resort features five restaurants, including AAA Five-Diamond Salt, an award-winning spa, named one of the top spas in the world by the readers of Conde’ Naste Travelers, on-site golf and tennis and 13 miles of dune-lined beach to explore.



Get Connected With MercyMe:
www.mercyme.org
www.facebook.com/mercyme
www.twitter.com/mercyme
www.instagram.com/themercyme
www.youtube.com/user/mercymevideo


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

GRAMMY-WINNER MANDISA KICKS OFF 2021 WITH "BREAKTHROUGH"

GRAMMY-WINNER MANDISA KICKS OFF 2021 WITH

"BREAKTHROUGH"

NASHVILLE, TN... January 8, 2021 - Grammy-winner Mandisa is kicking off the new year with a brand new single perfect for the new year, titled "Breakthrough." The track is now available across all DSPs, and a lyric video can be seen here.

The song begins with Mandisa singing, "This is where my heart will beat again, this is where I get set free, this is where your love is calling me; I'm ready, yeah, I'm ready to cross over the line," and continues with even more lyrics that speak boldly to starting fresh and waiting for a breakthrough, singing how she'll "Leave it all behind, nothing's gonna keep me here, oh, until I see a change, I'm lifting up your name, there's freedom in the atmosphere."

In November Mandisa released the single "It's Not Over," featuring Jasmine Murray and Rita Springer along with a coinciding lyric video. This track followed her May debut of the single "You Keep Hope Alive," with worship leader and Gotee Recording artist Jon Reddick. Penned by Reddick, a "Unity Version" of the song, featured vocal performances in English, Xhosa, Spanish, Samoan, Italian, Haitian Creole, Tagalong and Mandarin Chinese.

Mandisa is currently working on a worship release for 2021.

About Mandisa:
With more than 1.6 million records sold, GRAMMY® winner and American Idol Season 5 finalist Mandisa is a voice of encouragement and truth to people facing life’s challenges all around the world. In less than a year, Mandisa performed her three RIAA Certified Gold hit singles "Overcomer," "Good Morning (feat. TobyMac)" and "Stronger" on ABC’s Good Morning America (GMA). “Stronger” became an anthem, creating opportunities such as welcoming the emotional return of beloved morning host Robin Roberts and an invitation to perform the national anthem during a Sunday night NFL Network game to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Her 2013 GRAMMY® award-winning album Overcomer debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Christian Albums Chart. The album’s title track proved to be a smash at radio and earned the GRAMMY® for Best Contemporary Christian Music Song. Mandisa, also a 2-time K-LOVE Fan Awards co-host, debuted her latest chart-topping album Out Of The Dark alongside sharing the moving story of her fight with depression for the very first time on GMA as well. The latest 15 track collection includes notables such as the top 5 hits "Unfinished" and "Bleed The Same (feat. TobyMac, Kirk Franklin)." This summer she released "You Keep Hope Alive" with worship leader and Gotee Recording artist Jon Reddick, and when COVID-19 paused touring, Mandisa immediately took to YouTube to share what was on her heart during “Mornings with Mandisa” sessions, which have now morphed into “Mornings with Mandisa & Friends,” a round table discussion covering a myriad of topics that takes place via Zoom on the 24th of each month. In addition, Mandisa has launched “What If We Were Real,” a candid talk show on YouTube hosted by the singer that features a panel of guests and explores relevant subjects not often discussed in church circles.

###

Get Connected with Mandisa:
Website // www.mandisaofficial.com
Twitter // www.twitter.com/mandisaofficial
Instagram // www.instagram.com/mandisaofficial
Facebook // www.facebook.com/mandisaofficial


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

BEST-SELLING AUTHOR ANNIE F. DOWNS PROVES WHY "FUN IS WHAT WE NEED NOW MORE THAN EVER"

BEST-SELLING AUTHOR ANNIE F. DOWNS PROVES

WHY "FUN IS WHAT WE NEED

NOW MORE THAN EVER"

 IN NEW BOOK, THAT SOUNDS FUN

Fans Express "The world needs this book right now!"

"Your words are so important for all of us!"

With Over 42 Million Downloads of her Top-Rated Podcast That Sounds Fun, Downs Invites Us All to Walk Into 2021 With New Eyes

Nashville, TN.... January 8, 2021 - Best-selling author, podcaster, and who many call the Expert on Fun, Annie F. Downs shares that "fun is the medicine we all need now more than ever," and her fans agree as preorders for her upcoming book, That Sounds Fun (2.2.21) skyrocket. As we enter into a new year, especially after 2020, comments like "The world needs this book right now!" and "Your words are so important for all of us," are filling Downs' social media feeds. To note, fans who preorder the book can also download the audiobook for free HERE.

"If I'm going to be known for one thing on this planet, I kind of like being known for fun," Downs says in a recently released book trailer. "When I started the podcast and began asking people what sounds fun to them, my eyes were opened! We undervalue and downplay fun and the place fun ought to have in our lives. We don't prioritize the fun things; the simple things. Finding fun changes things. Fun is medicine for a sickness we all have. Searching for fun doesn't mean you're not responsible, and valuing fun doesn't mean you're not grown up! It just means you realize there's something you've lost and are willing to go look for it."

In That Sounds Fun, Downs offers an irresistible invitation to understand the meaning of fun, to embrace it and chase it, and to figure out what, exactly, sounds fun to you – then do it! Exploring some research and sharing some thoughts about why fun matters, she shows you how to find, experience, and multiply your fun. With her signature storytelling style and whimsical vulnerability, Annie F. Downs is the friend we all need to guide us back to staying true to ourselves and finding the fun we need. To find out more about the book, preorder and more, please click here.

About Annie:
Annie F. Downs is a bestselling author, sought-after speaker, and successful podcast host based in Nashville, Tennessee. Engaging and honest, she makes readers and listeners alike feel as if they’ve been long-time friends. Founder of the That Sounds Fun Network —which includes her top-rated podcast That Sounds Fun—and author of multiple bestselling books like 100 Days to Brave and Remember God, Annie shoots straight and doesn’t shy away from the tough topics. But she always finds her way back to the truth that God is good and that life is a gift. Annie is a huge fan of laughing with friends, confetti, soccer, and boiled peanuts (preferably from a back-roads Georgia gas station). Read more at anniefdowns.com and find her (embarrassingly easily) all over the internet at @anniefdowns.

###

Get Connected with Annie F. Downs:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
YouTube

Media Collective Contact:

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

MercyMe Named Billboard's Top Christian Artist of 2010s; Debuts New Single "Say I Won't; FOX News Premieres Music Video

MERCYME DEBUTS BRAND NEW SINGLE,

"SAY I WON'T" AS THEY ARE NAMED BILLBOARD'S TOP CHRISTIAN

ARTIST OF THE 2010s

Powerful Track Inspired by Miraculous True Story of Gary Miracle Visualized in Music Video Exclusively Premiered by FOX News

Nashville, TN.... December 4, 2020 - GRAMMY® nominated, multiple American Music Award and Dove Award-winning band MercyMe has debuted their powerful new single, “Say I Won’t” across all DSPs today, following being named Billboard's Top Christian Artist of the 2010s. Fox News exclusively premiered the track's music video yesterday.

Hailing from MercyMe’s next album coming spring 2021, “Say I Won’t” was inspired by the story of Gary Miracle, who worked with the band for many years on the road. Miracle lost both arms and legs in January of 2020 after falling into septic shock. His story is one of strength and profound faith, told in part by himself and through imagery in the video.

Directed by Brody Harper, Ryan Slaughter and produced by TwoSevenTwo, the video captures vulnerable and victorious moments including watching Gary put on his prosthetic arms for the first time, re-learning to write, and declaring that he will walk again! The lyrics in the song, mixed with the images in the video fully capture the depth of Miracle's suffering, while shining light on God’s ability to turn any tragedy into a stunning victory through perseverance.

“It's incredibly overwhelming to see Gary's situation," Millard told Fox News. "But to watch his wife and kids... what they're going through and standing by and supporting him is mind-blowing - it feels like it's a whole other level of love...” Millard told Fox News when talking about why they wanted to get his story out to the world.

This past summer MercyMe released "Hurry Up And Wait," the follow-up to their 48th #1 song "Almost Home," which held the top spot on Billboard's AC Indicator, Monitored, National Christian Audience, Mediabase Christian Audience and Christian AC charts, for a combined total of 17 weeks.

About MercyMe:
It continues to be a landmark time for the multi-platinum selling MercyMe. A major motion picture based on the life of frontman Bart Millard who wrote the mega-hit song "I Can Only Imagine” after the loss of his father opened at a remarkable No. 3 at the box office on Mar. 16, 2018 (Lionsgate, Roadside Attractions). Carrying the same name, Millard’s first memoir also released this year followed by the unveiling of I Can Only Imagine – The Very Best Of MercyMe. MercyMe was named Top Christian Artist at the 2018 Billboard Music Awards, was the top winner at the fan-fueled K-LOVE Fan Awards including a win for Artist of the Year and just received their eighth AMA nod. The group is the 2018 GMA Dove Award Winner for Artist Of The Year, and since their debut in 2001, GRAMMY® nominated, multiple American Music Award and Dove Award winners MercyMe have sold more than 9 million units in CD, single and DVD sales, garnered more than 48 No. 1 multi-format radio singles and four consecutive mainstream radio hits with “I Can Only Imagine,” (No. 4 AC/Top 25 on Top 40/Hot AC). MercyMe made history in 2014 as “I Can Only Imagine” surpassed 2 million digital downloads, making it the first song in Christian music to go platinum and double-platinum in the digital domain. The album containing the hit, Almost There, recently received 4x platinum certification from the RIAA. In 2009, Billboard named MercyMe's "Word Of God Speak" the No. 1 Song of The Decade and the group the No. 1 Artist of the Decade in both the Christian Songs and Christian AC Songs categories, recognizing them as one of the industry's most notable talents. They have sold out venues throughout the US and Canada, including Radio City Music Hall, and have appeared on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Today Show, CBS This Morning, FOX New Channel's FOX & Friends, CNN, ABC News and in the pages of Entertainment Weekly, The New York Times, USA Today and more. MercyMe’s eighth studio album, the RIAA Certified Gold Welcome To The New, garnered two GRAMMY® nods and four radio hits. LIFER, their latest chart-topping, GMA Dove Award winning and GRAMMY® nominated album, includes the RIAA certified platinum, GRAMMY® nominated smash hit "Even If” which dominated the Billboard and Mediabase radio charts with a 19-week streak at No. 1.

Get Connected With MercyMe:
www.mercyme.org
www.facebook.com/mercyme
www.twitter.com/mercyme
www.instagram.com/themercyme
www.youtube.com/user/mercymevideo

Media Collective Contact:

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

COLTON DIXON'S "MIRACLES" HITS TOP 5 AS AMERICAN IDOL FINALIST TO PERFORM FOR NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING'S 98th CEREMONY ON DECEMBER 3rd

COLTON DIXON'S "MIRACLES" HITS TOP 5 AS AMERICAN IDOL FINALIST TO PERFORM FOR NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING'S 98th CEREMONY ON DECEMBER 3rd

NASHVILLE, TN...December 2, 2020 - American Idol finalist Colton Dixon's hit single "Miracles," from Dixon's Atlantic Records debut, has officially hit Top 5 on Billboard's National Christian Audience chart following holding on to the No. 1 spot for 6 weeks on Hot/AC CHR this past summer. KLOVE also featured Dixon on their homepage this week discussing mainstream opportunies, fatherhood and every day miracles.

Available to watch on-demand at thenationaltree.org starting at 5 p.m. ET on December 3rd and throughout the holiday season, a festive compilation of Christmas lights and music, national parks, and holiday cheer, the 98th National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will bring joy into homes across the country. Dixon will make a repeat performance at the event when he sings his new track, a lovely version of "Let It Snow," along with performances from country singer/songwriter Jerrod Niemann; country artist Jillian Cardarelli; singer/songwriter Jillian Edwards; country music singer/songwriter and actress Kellie Pickler; country artist and American Idol winner Laine Hardy; country band Leaving Austin; award-winning gospel artist Lynda Randle and her brother, Michael Tait, of the Newsboys; singer/songwriter Matthew West; Passion featuring Melodie Malone; the National Park Service Arrowhead Jazz Band; the Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus; the U.S. Navy’s official chorus, The Sea Chanters; and “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band.

Dixon released "Let It Snow" as he and wife Annie are about to celebrate their first Christmas with their newborn twins. Written by lyricist Sammy Cahn and composer Jule Styne in July 1945, the classic was penned in Hollywood, California, ironically during a heat wave as Cahn and Styne imagined cooler conditions.

Dixon, along with his wife Annie and twin girls Athens and Dior recently joined Entertainment Tonight for an exclusive, at-home interview. Discussing life as a family of four with correspondent Rachel Smith, they also talked about both "Miracles," and "Let It Snow."

Additionally this week, after helping decorate the twins' nursery when they were born, and now once again for the holidays, Pottery Barn Kids featured the girls on their socials admist their festive decor and in their Christmas PJs.

ABOUT COLTON DIXON:
Colton Dixon quickly became a household name in 2012 when he was voted a fan favorite and made it to the top seven on Season 11 of Fox's hit show AMERICAN IDOL. His career has been on the fast track ever since, now boasting over 100 million streams across all platforms. 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. Dixon is also a Steinway & Sons artist, following in the footsteps of legendary artists such as Harry Connick, Jr. and Billy Joel. Dixon's sophomore effort Anchor included 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, followed by the release of his third studio album Identity, which included the top 5 single “All That Matters,” whose video was premiered by PEOPLE magazine. His latest, critically-acclaimed, self-titled EP, boasting this hit single "Miracles," is available now.

###

Get Connected with Colton Dixon:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coltondixon
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coltondixonmusic
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ColtonDixonMusicVEVO
Instagram: https://instagram.com/coltondixonmusic/

Media Collective Contact:

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

LEAVING AUSTIN TO PERFORM LATEST SINGLE, "LAST CHRISTMAS," FOR 98TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LEAVING AUSTIN TO PERFORM LATEST SINGLE, "LAST CHRISTMAS," FOR 98TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

Nashville, TN.... December 1, 2020 - This Thursday, December 3rd, BMG/Sea Gayle trio Leaving Austin will perform their first Christmas recording, a remake of the 80s hit "Last Christmas," as a part of the 98th Annual National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Available to watch on-demand at thenationaltree.org starting at 5 p.m. ET on the 3rd and throughout the holiday season, a festive compilation of Christmas lights and music, national parks, and holiday cheer, the ceremony will bring joy into homes across the country. Along with Leaving Austin, performers include pop artist and American Idol finalist Colton Dixon; country singer/songwriter Jerrod Niemann; country artist Jillian Cardarelli; singer/songwriter Jillian Edwards; country music singer/songwriter and actress Kellie Pickler; country artist and American Idol winner Laine Hardy; award-winning gospel artist Lynda Randle and her brother, Michael Tait, lead vocalist of the Newsboys; singer/songwriter Matthew West; Passion featuring Melodie Malone; the National Park Service Arrowhead Jazz Band; the Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus; the U.S. Navy’s official chorus, The Sea Chanters; and “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band.

ABOUT LEAVING AUSTIN: Hailing from a small farming town of Visalia, CA, and now Nashville residents, Leaving Austin is forging a path in country music that’s solely their own. Comprised of Austin Machado, Davis Forney and Michael Stevens, the trio’s smooth vocals and distinctive songwriting have definitely made them a sought after band in Nashville, regularly writing and recording with some of Nashville’s finest writers/producers. The band has amassed over 10 million streams and released their Southern Gold EP in 2019 after signing a worldwide co-publishing deal under a partnership agreement with Sea Gayle Music and BMG Nashville. The EP featured “Nothing but You," which has garnered over four million streams.

###

Get Connected with Leaving Austin:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeavingAustin/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leavingaustin/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/leavingaustin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/LeavingAustinBand
Website: leavingaustinband.com

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

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GRAMMY-WINNER MANDISA RELEASES NEW SINGLE, "IT'S NOT OVER" FEATURING JASMINE MURRAY AND RITA SPRINGER 

NASHVILLE, TN... November 21, 2020 - Grammy-winner Mandisa has released a brand new single today, "It's Not Over," featuring Jasmine Murray and Rita Springer. Along with the debut of a coinciding lyric video, the track is now available across all DSPs.

In May, Mandisa debuted the single "You Keep Hope Alive," with worship leader and Gotee Recording artist Jon Reddick. Penned by Reddick, a "Unity Version" of the song, featured vocal performances in English, Xhosa, Spanish, Samoan, Italian, Haitian Creole, Tagalong and Mandarin Chinese.

Mandisa is currently working on a worship release for 2021.

About Mandisa:

With more than 1.6 million records sold, GRAMMY® winner and American Idol Season 5 finalist Mandisa is a voice of encouragement and truth to people facing life’s challenges all around the world. In less than a year, Mandisa performed her three RIAA Certified Gold hit singles "Overcomer," "Good Morning (feat. TobyMac)" and "Stronger" on ABC’s Good Morning America (GMA). “Stronger” became an anthem, creating opportunities such as welcoming the emotional return of beloved morning host Robin Roberts and an invitation to perform the national anthem during a Sunday night NFL Network game to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Her 2013 GRAMMY® award-winning album Overcomer debuted at No. 1 on the BillboardChristian Albums Chart. The album’s title track proved to be a smash at radio and earned the GRAMMY® for Best Contemporary Christian Music Song. Mandisa, also a 2-time K-LOVE Fan Awards co-host, debuted her latest chart-topping album Out Of The Dark alongside sharing the moving story of her fight with depression for the very first time on GMA as well. The latest 15 track collection includes notables such as the top 5 hits "Unfinished" and "Bleed The Same (feat. TobyMac, Kirk Franklin)." This summer she released "You Keep Hope Alive" with worship leader and Gotee Recording artist Jon Reddick, and when COVID-19 paused touring, Mandisa immediately took to YouTube to share what was on her heart during “Mornings with Mandisa” sessions, which have now morphed into “Mornings with Mandisa & Friends,” a round table discussion covering a myriad of topics that takes place via Zoom on the 24th of each month. In addition, Mandisa has launched “What If We Were Real,” a candid talk show on YouTube hosted by the singer that features a panel of guests and explores relevant subjects not often discussed in church circles.

###

Get Connected with Mandisa:
Website // www.mandisaofficial.com 
Twitter // www.twitter.com/mandisaofficial 
Instagram // www.instagram.com/mandisaofficial
Facebook // www.facebook.com/mandisaofficial

Media Collective Contact:

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

DC Talk Celebrates 25th Anniversary of JESUS FREAK

DC Talk Celebrates 25th Anniversary of JESUS FREAK with Special Edition Releases, Contest, More

Nashville, TN.... November 21, 2020 - The best-selling group in the history of Contemporary Christian Music (CCM), DC Talk, is celebrating the 25th anniversary of their RIAA double-platinum album, Jesus Freak with a collection of releases, contests and more, all kicking off today.

“This record was more the three of us than anything we had ever done together up to that point” says TobyMac, who was also the albums co-producer. “This was the first album that sounded like Michael, Kevin and Toby. Those guys are such great vocalists that I didn’t have any more time for them to sing choruses. I wanted to hear some of their passionate vocals in the verses and beyond. Looking back I am so glad that we took a hip hop touring group and added guitars and rock to transform and grow the sound. We went into that house that we turned into a studio, with no formula and said musically whatever comes out comes out. We kept the same goal in mind, to use our music and platform to point people to God.

A previously unreleased video from a 1995 Michael Tait Vocal Session demo was also unveiled in honor of the silver anniversary of Jesus Freak. The video is available now on YouTube, and also features original photos from the recording of the album in 1995. Simultaneously, YouVersion has partnered with DC Talk to provide devotional content.

The “Jesus Freak” album has also been re-released and broken down into three, thematic digital EPs. Titles, “What Will People Think,” “Human After All,” and “Trying to Find a Life,” present a deeper dive into the devotional themes of DC Talk’s iconic album. EPs available on all digital streaming platforms.

“When we were finishing up the project, we played Jesus Freak for the the label for the first time and, let's just say, it wasn't received well” says album producer and Jesus Freak song co-writer Mark Heimermann. “I later heard that they thought it was the beginning of the end for dc Talk. Funny now for sure, but they were wise enough to trust Toby and keep riding that dc Talk train. We won the Dove Award for “Song of The Year” in 1996 for Jesus Freak and I think we were both shocked. Up until that year, it was always the most conservative music that would win. It was truly ground breaking within the industry. To see 80,000 people at a Billy Graham Crusade singing a song that you were a part of is overwhelming and beyond humbling. Evidently it found its time. The Church needed passionate anthems for its generation and I truly believe God used Jesus Freak to inspire millions of people – believers and non-believers alike.”

One of the top 20 records of all time in CCM, fans will be excited to celebrate and participate in a JF25 contest, where 25 curated giveaways will be available to win, including a limited edition box set with a vinyl copy and expanded Jesus Freak book with new stories added. To enter the contest, go HERE. The re-release of the book and a the box set are also available now and can be purchased here.

All DC Talk social media channels are active and fun for fans to follow as well, with lots of previously never-seen-before content and more. The band can be found @dctalkofficial on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

###

Media Collective Contact:

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TUNE-IN ALERT: COLTON DIXON ON ENTERTAINNMENT TONIGHT THIS EVENING

Dixon, wife Annie and Twin Baby Girls Athens & Dior Talk with E.T. about Life as a Family of Four, Colton's Hit single "Miracles," and New Christmas Single, "Let It Snow"

Nashville, TN.... November 6, 2020 - American Idol finalist Colton Dixon, along with his wife Annie and twin girls Athens and Dior will join Entertainment Tonight this evening for an exclusive, at-home interview. Discussing life as a family of four with correspondent Rachel Smith, they also talk about Dixon's latest hit, "Miracles," his new Christmas single, "Let It Snow" (Atlantic) and more. Click here to check local listings.

Dixon's latest hit single, "Miracles" appears on his Atlantic Record's debut, the self-titled EP that released to critical acclaim in May 2020. "Miracles" hit No. 1 for six weeks on Hot AC/CHR and is currently top 10 on Billboard's National Christian Audience chart.

"Let It Snow" comes as Dixon and wife Annie will celebrate their first Christmas with their newborn twins. Written by lyricist Sammy Cahn and composer Jule Styne in July 1945, the classic was penned in Hollywood, California, ironically during a heat wave as Cahn and Styne imagined cooler conditions.

ABOUT COLTON DIXON:
Colton Dixon quickly became a household name in 2012 when he was voted a fan favorite and made it to the top seven on Season 11 of Fox's hit show AMERICAN IDOL. His career has been on the fast track ever since, now boasting over 100 million streams across all platforms. 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. Dixon is also a Steinway & Sons artist, following in the footsteps of legendary artists such as Harry Connick, Jr. and Billy Joel. Dixon's sophomore effort Anchor included 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, followed by the release of his third studio album Identity, which included the top 5 single “All That Matters,” whose video was premiered by PEOPLE magazine. His latest, critically-acclaimed, self-titled EP, boasting this hit single "Miracles," is available now.

###

Get Connected with Colton Dixon:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/coltondixon
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coltondixonmusic
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ColtonDixonMusicVEVO
Instagram: https://instagram.com/coltondixonmusic/

Media Collective Contact:

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

JACK CASSIDY APPEARS ON THE DOCTORSAND NEW JUCE TV PROGRAM, KINGDOM THINKING

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

JACK CASSIDY APPEARS ON THE DOCTORS
AND NEW JUCE TV PROGRAM,
KINGDOM THINKING

Nashville, TN.... November 6, 2020 - Fair Trade Services artist Jack Cassidy made two TV appearances this week sharing his personal, vulnarable story of overcoming addiction, which is also the inspiration behind his current single, "Run At The Giant."

On Monday, the singer/songwriter made a special appearance on The Doctors, sharing his personal story of how addiction almost took his life, and how after an overdose, he asked God for help and was able to quit cold turkey.

Check out the episode here: https://www.thedoctorstv.com/videos/musician-jack-cassidy-on-surviving-an-overdose-and-getting-sober

Later in the week Cassidy was interviewed on the new JUCE TV program Kingdom Thinking, where he shared even more about overcoming his drug use, depression and beyond during a special series on Faith & Mental Health. That episdode can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFV1IDk2eBs&t=580s

While "Run At The Giant" may be his first single, the 21-year-old singer-songwriter was also a contestant on The Voice in 2017 on Team Alicia Keys and has had music in his blood since the day he was born. His grandmother (Shirley Jones) was the mother in the Partridge family and an Oscar award winning actress, while his uncles (David and Shaun Cassidy) were both teen pop stars. Cassidy’s parents also have had active careers in show business for many years.

Life wasn’t easy behind the scenes for most of his family, including for his Uncle David in particular, who had a continuous problem with alcoholism which eventually led him to an early death at 67. Cassidy saw many of his choices leading him in that same direction, consistently battling depression and anxiety which led to a desire to self-medicate and numb the pain, and eventually severe addiction.

"One night in the midst of an overdose I felt like I was about to have a heart attack," he recalls. "I dropped to my knees and begged God to save me and keep me alive. I firmly believes God was the only reason I got through that night. I've been sober many years now. The turn was when I really got to know the peace about who God is and I live for that now. Like the story of David & Goliath in the Bible, with God’s help, the Giant got his butt kicked. I really hope that when you listen to this song, you will think about its meaning and it can encourage you to defeat the giants in your life."

###

About Jack Cassidy:

Rising star Jack Cassidy writes his story into every song he records—a story filled with fame, setbacks and, ultimately, redemption. The singer has show business in his blood. As the grandson of acclaimed actress and entertainer Shirley Jones and the nephew of former teen idols David and Shaun Cassidy, the 21-year-old was destined for the stage. Although his rich heritage gifted him with a raw musical talent, the demons of addiction were also passed down through his family tree. Cassidy’s experiments with drugs as a teen led to a dangerous cocaine habit that spiraled out of control just after his blind audition on Season 12 of The Voice catapulted him into the national spotlight. Following a year-and-a-half long battle with severe depression and anxiety, the Los Angeles native surrendered his life and his growing music career to God after a nearly fatal overdose. Now several years sober and living in Nashville, Cassidy is carrying on a longtime family tradition steeped in music. The new Fair Trade Services artist details his struggles in his deeply personal debut single, “Run At The Giant,” which challenges listeners to charge at the Goliath in their lives. The moody pop anthem—co-written by Cassidy, Paul Mabury and Andrew Ripp—is available now at radio and across all digital streaming platforms.

Get Connected with Jack Cassidy:

Twitter
Instagram 
Facebook 

Media Collective Contact:

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

P.O. Box 273 | Franklin, TN
E: pr@themcollective.com
P: 615.591.7989
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SKILLET WINS ROCK/CONTEMPORARY SONG OF THE YEAR AND ROCK/CONTEMPORARY ALBUM OF THE YEAR AT 51ST ANNUAL GMA DOVE AWARDS

SKILLET WINS TWO GMA DOVE AWARDS FOR

ROCK CONTEMPORARY ALBUM OF THE YEAR, VICTORIOUS, AND ROCK CONTEMPORARY SONG OF THE YEAR, "LEGENDARY"

Nashville, TN.... 10/30/20 - Multi-platinum rock band Skillet has won two Gospel Music Association Dove Awards for their critically-acclaimed 2019 release, Victorious (Atlantic). Announced during last night's pre-telecast, their wins for Rock Contemporary Album of the Year with Victorious, as well as Rock Contempoary Song of the Year for "Legendary," marks eight Dove Award wins for the band. Victorious was also nominated for a 2020 Billboard Music Award. "Legendary" is currently WWE's Monday Night Raw theme song. The Pre-Telecast aired yesterday evening on Facebook and will remain available to watch online. Fans can tune in tonight for the 51st Annual GMA Dove Awards #CarryTheChange Broadcast Celebration on TBN at 8/7CT.

Skillet released their Deluxe project, Victorious: The Aftermath (Atlantic) last month, a collection that features all twelve original tracks from Victorious, plus eight additional tunes, including two brand new unreleased songs, and 5 reimagined songs.

Coming November 10th is their second graphic novel, Eden II: The Aftermath, once again pairing Random Shock Studios with Skillet frontman John Cooper and his Eden artist Chris Hunt. Available in both the standard and a limited deluxe edition, Skillet's return to the post-apocalyptic world of Eden, as established in their 2019 graphic novel debut of the same name, is an exciting one for the band as well as their publisher, Z2 Comics. The original book became their best-selling graphic novel of all time. According to Cooper, Aftermath promises "more action, more surprises, more suspense."

Not letting a crazy 2020 slow him down, Cooper recently announced his debut book, Awake & Alive to Truth (Finding Truth in the Chaos of a Relativistic World), which will be available on Black Friday (11.27.20), and pre-ordered now by clicking here.

"I wrote Awake & Alive to Truth because we live in a culture that is more concerned with tone rather than honesty, emotion rather than critical thinking, and empathy rather than truth. I believe truth is revealed by God and God alone. The identity you belong to - the color of your skin, your gender, or your economic status - cannot be a prerequisite for understanding the truth."

ABOUT SKILLET:
On Victorious, one of the best-selling rock bands of the 21st century, two-time GRAMMY® Award-nominated, Pandora Billionaires Club recipients, multiplatinum Wisconsin quartet SKILLET—John Cooper [lead vocals/bass], Korey Cooper [guitar/keys], Jen Ledger [drums/vocals], and Seth Morrison [lead guitar]—write the soundtrack to triumph. An undying spirit humbly asserted and affirmed the band as one of this generation’s most successful rock acts. However, as all classic underdog stories do, it happened quietly under the radar. By 2019, they not only garnered a pair of GRAMMY® Award nods and sold over 12 million albums worldwide, but they also took home a Billboard Music Award for the double-platinum Awake. Its breakout single “Monster” remains “one of the most-streamed rock songs of all-time” with over 3 Billion global audio streams. 2016’s Unleashed bowed at #3 on the Billboard Top 200. Going #1 on Rock Radio, the lead single “Feel Invincible” cracked 150 million global audio streams and went platinum. Meanwhile, the gold-certified Unleashed became their fourth consecutive album to receive either a gold, platinum, or double-platinum status. To date, nine original tunes earned RIAA recognition in tandem with high-profile syncs by everyone from WWE and Marvel to ESPN and NFL. Between selling out arenas on four continents, the group performed on CONAN and graced the pages of USA Today and The New York Times, Skillet debuted their first graphic novel, EDEN: A Skillet Graphic Novel with Z2 Comics, which has become the publisher’s best-selling book of all time.

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Get Connected with Skillet:
Website: www.skillet.com
Facebook: @Skillet
Twitter & Instagram: @skilletmusic

Media Collective Contact:

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

SADIE ROBERTSON HUFF LAUNCHES LO WORSHIP, ENCOMPASSING BAND, RECORD LABEL and PUBLISHING GROUP

SADIE ROBERTSON HUFF LAUNCHES

LO WORSHIP, ENCOMPASSING BAND, RECORD LABEL and PUBLISHING GROUP

FIRST SINGLE, "COMPASS,"

AVAILABLE TODAY

LO Worship Band to Join Robertson on Spring 2021 Ministry Events

Nashville, TN..... October 30, 2020 - Sadie Robertson Huff has launched a new endeavor, LO WORSHIP, encompassing a record label and publishing group, and introducing a new band by the same name, comprised of worship leaders Brantley Pollock (Church of the City, Franklin TN), Kaylea Mayo (Christ Church, West Monroe, LA) and Cazaiah Franklin (Nashville, TN). The first single from LO WORSHIP, "Compass," written by Pollock, Mayo and Robertson Huff is available today, along with a lyric video. LO Worship will join Robertson Huff on her Spring 2021 Ministry Events.

"I started LO Worship because I wanted write songs that support the messages that Live Original is already sharing - that one encounter with Jesus can change everything," Robertson Huff says. "People don’t always remember a 40 minute sermon — but they do remember a song! I wanted to help people find the words to sing over themselves in hard times. Worship has always done that for me. LO Worship is a group of friends, songwriters and musicians that I have gathered to together to use their gifting to write songs, which magnify Jesus and lead people to that encounter with Him.”

For more information including booking and tour news, please visit LOWorship.com.

ABOUT SADIE ROBERTSON HUFF:

Speaker, New York Times Best-Selling Author, Influencer, and Founder of Live Original, communicating as a sister and friend, Huff is on a mission to use her influence to reach her generation with the message of Christ. Huff is the host of the popular podcast WHOA That’s Good, which reached more than a million unique downloads after only 15 episodes. Her Live Original Blog, features encouraging and transparent messages from Huff and her closest friends. She recently launched her exclusive, online community and App, LO Sister, which is designed to cultivate sisterhood through bible studies and workshops. You can learn more about Sadie Robertson Huff at http://LiveOrginal.com or by following her on Instagram @legitsadierob

ABOUT THE MEMBERS OF LO WORSHIP:

Caziah Franklin

Caziah Franklin is a writer and multi-instrumentalist from Fort Worth, TX. Along with LO Worship, Caz has devoted the majority of his life to serving within different music collectives, ministries, and organizations, while pursuing a degree in Religion & Art at Belmont University in Nashville, TN.

Kaylea Mayo

Kaylea Mayo is a worship leader and songwriter from West Monroe, Louisiana. Along with LO Worship, Kaylea youth pastors at Christ Church and leads a gathering of women called Cultivate.LA in her hometown.

Brantley Pollock

Brantley Pollock is a worship leader and songwriter currently living in Franklin, TN with his wife Paige and their dog Mozzie. Along with LO Worship, Brantley is on staff at Church Of The City – Franklin as one of the worship leaders.

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

JOHN COOPER REBELS AGAINST RELATIVISM IN DEBUT BOOK, AWAKE & ALIVE TO TRUTH

GRAMMY-NOMINATED ROCKER

JOHN COOPER REBELS AGAINST RELATIVISM IN DEBUT BOOK,

AWAKE & ALIVE TO TRUTH

Available on Black Friday, Pre-Order Online Now

Nashville, TN.... 10/21/20 - In bold fashion, GRAMMY-nominated, multi-platinum rocker John Cooper is rebelling against relativism in his debut book, Awake & Alive to Truth (Finding Truth in the Chaos of a Relativistic World).  Self-published and available on Black Friday (11.27.20), the book can also be pre-ordered now by clicking here. 

"In an era of tolerance and self-proclaimed love, why are we getting angrier and lonelier?" Cooper asks. "One big reason is because relative truth doesn’t work. If nothing is absolutely true then anything can be viewed as good. Political and social movements create a popular opinion that through social media and the news media are promulgated as virtuous, only to be changed the next day.  I wrote Awake & Alive to Truth because we live in a culture that is more concerned with tone rather than honesty, emotion rather than critical thinking, and empathy rather than truth. I believe truth is revealed by God and God alone.  The identity you belong to - the color of your skin, your gender, or your economic status - cannot be a prerequisite for understanding the truth."

After traveling the world for 23 years as the lead singer/bassist for Skillet, Kenosha, WI resident and Memphis, TN born Cooper says he has noticed one consistent issue: people are desperately confused. Awake and Alive To Truth tackles the reigning philosophies of our day of post-modernism, relativism, and the popular view of the goodness of man-and combats these viewpoints by standing on the absolute truth of the Word of God. Awake and Alive To Truth answers some of the most asked questions in modern culture. Cooper takes readers on a journey through personal stories, the doctrine of original sin, the authority of Scripture, the danger of trusting your emotions, and ends with the greatest news possible: God wants to rescue you from the chaos and the darkness and bring you into His glorious light. 

In the fall of 2019, Cooper launched his Cooper Stuff podcast following the chain reaction to a popular post he titled "What In God's Name is Happening in Christianity?" dealing with faith leaders and 'influencers' falling away from their faith. Since then, Cooper has taken hot-button issues head-on, and gained an ever-growing audience.  One of his more recent episodes, currently with over 500,000 views, came when an outbreak of violence took over downtown Kenosha, WI, just blocks from his home, after the Jacob Blake shooting.  Other topics/titles have included "Cancel Christianity," "Falling into the Abyss of Wokeness," "Christian Leaders are Failing Us," "Civil War in the Church, "Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is the new sex, drugs and rock 'n roll," and many more. 

About The Author:
John L. Cooper is the lead vocalist, bassist, and songwriter/producer for Skillet, one of the best-selling rock bands of at the 21st century. The two-time grammy award nominated 12X platinum band was inducted to Pandora’s Billionaire club after garnering 2 Billion streams, took home a billboard music award and more. Their breakout single “Monster” remains “one of the most-streamed rock songs of all time” with 285 million global audio streams. John and his wife Korey have been touring together for the entirety of their 23 years of marriage and live in Kenosha, WI with their two children. John and Korey are passionate about sharing the truth of Christ to the world through music, the Cooper Stuff Podcast, two Skillet graphic novels entitled Eden and Eden: The Aftermath, and now through his debut book, Awake & Alive to Truth.

Connect with John L. Cooper:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnlcooperstuff

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnlcooper/          

Twitter: https://twitter.com/johnlcooper      

Website: www.johnlcooper.com

Media Collective Contact: 

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